On June 23, 2015 Care For The Horses
received two 11 week old colts that were surrendered by their owner.
The two had been prematurely weaned at about two months of age. Both were severely emaciated being judged by the vet on intake to be 1.5 on the Henneke Body Condition Scoring System.
This means the bone structure of the neck and ribs are easily noticeable. The ribs protrude prominently. Through the loin the spinous process project prominently. At the tailhead the pinbones and hookbones project prominently. (See the photo
at right)In addition to the problem of starvation the smaller of the two, the little bay, had an infection in the left knee that made it extremely difficult for him to get up. As he struggled to rise he scraped and abraided other joints, especially his right knee. (see photos left) Lightning, as he came to be called was placed on antibiotics for the infection and a refeeding program was begun.
The little chestnut, Cowboy was actually in a bit better condition but was still judged 2 in body condition. He had a severe upper respiratory infection and was placed on antibiotics and placed on a refeeding program.
In the last week the two boys have had their ups and downs. Cowboy's upper respiratory seemed to improve but there has been a bit of a backslide which will be addressed by the vet today. He is eating well and moving around more agilely.
Lightning is also gaining weight and eating well but continues to have mobility issues which are being addressed. His wounds are healing well with constant care.
Please visit :
http://www.careforthehorses.com/
to see how you can help Care For The Horses support these two very needy foals.
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