Although it’s often said that a dog is a man’s best friend, for Donnie MacAdams, his loyal horse, Waco, holds that title. Waco Hannover, who was once a renowned thoroughbred racehorse, now spends his leisure time with his closest human companion, Donnie.
Donnie spends his days running a government information center in Vermont, where he interacts with numerous individuals. However, his greatest joy is returning home from work to spend time with Waco, and he even resides in an apartment situated above the stables, making the two of them roommates.
Over the past eight years, Donnie has dedicated all of his free time to Waco. The two companions have supported each other through difficult times, and Donnie has attributed his recovery from a heart attack to the presence and companionship of Waco.
Before, carrying a five-gallon bucket of water was too physically demanding for Donnie due to his recovery from a heart attack. However, thanks to Waco’s assistance, Donnie has regained his strength and can now carry a five-pound bucket without any problems.
In 2008, when Donnie first met Waco, he didn’t have much of an appetite.
“I wanted to dig a hole because I didn’t think it would survive the winter,” he said, according to CBS News.
However, it was later discovered that the reason for Waco’s lack of appetite was not due to illness, but rather because he was lonely and in need of companionship.
“I only talked to him for half an hour one day and got him to accept the fact that I’m not going anywhere, I’m your friend. This has been going on for eight years. ”
Nowadays, they both enjoy spending time together and indulging in animal cookies. Donnie is even acknowledged for Waco’s long life as the horse celebrated its 40th birthday in 2017, equivalent to 120 human years.
“There were times in winter when I walked into the barn, went downstairs, and leaned against the front of the barn. He put his head on my shoulder and he just chewed, he just chewed and he just calmed me down, “Donnie told CBS News.
Regrettably, this devoted horse passed away in 2019 at the age of 42. Donnie wrote a tribute to his companion and shared the sorrowful news, stating, “My best friend, therapist, sounding board and in recent years a Waco camera slut has died.
“I never thought a damn horse would make a good companion. He was and more.”
The impact that animals can have on our lives is truly remarkable, and Waco was certainly an exceptional horse who brought so much joy to Donnie’s life.
Rest in peace, Waco. Donnie and Waco were truly fortunate to have found each other and shared so many wonderful years together.