Coby van Baalen's Grand Prix horse BMC Pasternak has been humanely put down on Monday 13th November 2006. The Dutch warmblood gelding by Gribaldi x Cocktail x Zonneglans contracted a mysterious virus in the spring of 2006 which almost killed him.
The black gelding, however, did recover but became ataxic.
During a final examination at the University Equine Clinic of Ghent (Belgium) it became obvious that Pasternak's ataxia would be a risk for his own health and well being and that even a retired life in the field would be too dangerous for the horse. It was in Pasternak's best interest to put him down.
Coby van Baalen bred, green broke, trained and competed Pasternak herself. The in 1997 born Pasternak made his debut at Grand Prix level in the winter season of 2005-2006. He achieved top scores at small tour level in in his first Grand Prix tests but the curious virus halted Pasternak's show career.
The virus blocked Pasternak's entire digestive system. He was initially treated in the clinic in Kerken, Germany, and the veterinarians there were able to pull him through. In the summer of 2006, Pasternak enjoyed a nice retirement in the field but his condition deteriorated again this autumn. With great sadness, Coby decided to have her beloved horse put down.
Photo copyrighted: Koenraad Cappon
Related Link
Dutch Horses for 2003 World Championships for Young Dressage Horses