The Lloydminster community is mourning the loss of a special horse, Dixie.
The beloved mare recently passed and was part of a well-known equine team that gave joy to many.
“She was a gentle giant,” said owner Dwight Teale. “She made people smile everywhere she went.”
Dixie and her teammate, Dolly, pulled wagons and sleighs at many local events. They took part in parades, fundraisers, and special occasions around the community and surrounding area.
Read more: Bonnyville donates to local event
“We did the Calgary Stampede Parade,” Dwight shared. “That was on my bucket list.”
Tammy Hempel, Dwight’s significant other, saw how much Dixie meant to people.
“She connected people to agriculture,” said Tammy. “People don’t always get that experience.”
When Dixie passed, the community shared their grief online.
The Dwight and Tammy were appreciative of the help from social media manager, Darby Duffield, with getting the word out.
“We were overwhelmed,” said Tammy.
“The response was heartwarming.”
Dixie’s work brought joy and taught people about rural life. Especially at events like the annual
Cutter Rally For Cancer.
“It’s community service,” Tammy explained. “We’ve always tried to give back.”
The horses are moving on
The loss of her long-time partner Dixie has effected Dolly. She is moving on well. However, the couple know she misses her partner. Dixie passed while at an event in Prince Albert.
“I think for all of the horses, because my team was up there as well, they knew, and they stood over Dixie in the evenings,” said Tammy, explaining they had an Indigenous woman attend the ranch to help in the healing process, which they believe made a difference.
Meanwhile, Dolly is still working and connecting people to the community, working as a single horse. This, however, may change.
“We’ve got another Clyde Cross that has lost her mate a number of years ago. The owner is giving us the opportunity to pair them up and see how they drive,” said Dwight.
“Dolly did fine by herself,” said Dwight about their time in Prince Albert.
She did, however, frequently look for Dixie.
“She knew something wasn’t right, but she did well.”
Dixie: a legacy
Dixie was a cherished part of Do It Again Ranch, a farm that hosts tours and educational events.
“We want to educate people about where food comes from,” said Tammy. “It’s important.”
Dwight and Tammy plan to open a petting zoo this summer to continue Dixie’s legacy.
“We’ll have wagon rides, baby animals, and tours … we’ve got baby horses, goats, and rabbits,” said Dwight.
“We want kids to learn and experience farm life,” added Tammy.
Meanwhile, the team is moving forward but will always remember their beloved mare, Dixie.
“She was one-of-a-kind,” said Dwight.
Read more: Canada, Sask invest $7.2M in Agri research
