Update on Digger

Digger has been here two weeks and we already think he’s looking better. Returning him to his ideal weight and condition will take time, but we’re trying to do it the best way. His teeth have been done, and though his mouth is in much better shape, two teeth had to be pulled and some were already missing. His front teeth are very short, and it’s difficult for him to eat hay. (He sure loves to try!) He’s getting senior feed and alfalfa pellets with a flake of alfalfa, to work on as best he can. He can eat the looser, fluffier parts of the hay but leaves the rest.

We noticed some swelling on his lower legs and especially the left behind. The vet treated him with steroids, and he will be getting a quarter of a Previcox tablet daily for inflammation. We’re hosing down his legs daily, taking him for a walk to get things moving, and wrapping his legs until we see some improvement. Dig has some dermatitis on all four legs, and we’re using a special shampoo weekly for that. It’s hard to know what caused the swelling, but we are actively treating the symptoms.

Dig had his feet trimmed Friday and stood there quietly like a pro. He has been very cooperative and seems to know we’re trying to help. Though the emaciated condition of a rescue horse is the most obvious issue to be addressed, many other related problems can present themselves.

One of the greatest rewards of these efforts is seeing the horse’s personality come through as good health returns. When I first met Sheldon a few years ago, he just stood quietly and didn’t seem too interested in anything. Now he’s ready to go at a moment’s notice and greets us with enthusiasm when we come to the barn; and when we step into his stall, he welcomes a hug!    He prances out into the pasture. We can’t wait to see Digger blossom.