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 Expert
Posts: 1898
   
| We have an opportunity to get an older horse for my daughter to plug around on. He was my horse when I was in high school, knows the barrels and poles but became a bleeder and I sold him as a trail horse to my husband's boss. He is incredibly gentle and broke and I swear you could set a bomb off right next to him and he would never move. The only draw back is he has untreated Cushing's. Exterior symptoms are only weight loss. He is not lame, does not have irregular fat pockets and does not have an irregular hair coat. They did an ACTH and the results came back slightly elevated. The vet told my husband's boss that it was the wrong time of year to test and if they ran another in the spring the results would probably be a little more elevated. As far as treatment, the vet gave them some pills, but the boss can't remember what they were. Oddly the boss said the vet told him the pills would treat and cure the symptoms but I thought once a horse had Cushing's it had to be treated the rest of their life. I have exactly 0 experience with Cushing's so I don't know if it is even possible to rehab.
I do know that the vet did not do a fecal to check for worms because the owner said he was current and felt is was unnecessary, however I do know, because my husband is who does all the vaccinating and deworming, he has not been de-wormed properly in several years. About two years ago the boss went to a daily feed through BUT only feeds it when they "remember" (or so he told my husband). The horse is not being fed properly either. They only feed once a day, straight alfalfa and when they feel like it, 4 way sweet feed.
Right now we are told the horse is in pretty poor body condition. Neither my husband or myself have seen the horse in several months. Of course we will be evaluating his condition and talking to the vet before any hasty decisions are made, but before I even go look at the horse I was wondering if anyone has had success with rehabbing. Because I personally know the horse, I am willing to put the cash out to know my daughter is safe.
Edited by cyount2009 2014-03-19 9:57 AM
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Grammar Expert
| I would be interested to know as well, we have one with very similar conditions. |
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 Elite Veteran
Posts: 999
Location: Sunny So Cal | My understanding is that it is something that has to be treated for the rest of their life and can be managed. It really depends on how bad his Cushing's is. Based off of what you wrote it doesn't seem like he is affected that much from it. My friend had great success from THE Cushing's. Or you could get a blood test done and have Bob look at it and see what else he finds. |
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  Warmblood with Wings
Posts: 27846
Location: Florida.. | It can not be cured but managed to extend life.
Id not go by a test either.. most cushings tests are wrong.. positive or negative.and if boss cant remember to feed horse or whatever id sure not go by what he says.
most vets will go by symptoms.. body condition etc..
.. but if horse is in poor condition amd lack of nutrition..and also most likely wormy.. my guess is you may have luck at least to get her restored to health and trail ride for a child. |
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 Miss Laundry Misshap
Posts: 5271
| I would say if Cushings was the only issue, he'd be fine to plug around on for a kid. It is treatable, and of course severity plays a part, but it's not like severe founder that takes their feet out from under them. I would probably see what your vet says in regards to whether or not loping them through the barrels or poles is a good idea or not, but to walk and trot around, I can't see much of an issue. |
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Fire Ant Peddler
Posts: 2881
| Yes, definitely. Cushings is an endocrine system problem. The medication is quite expensive but I bought a mixture of herbs and my old horse slicked off black and shiny and fat. I would have to find my herb book to give you a list but it was much cheaper than the prescription. Worked great. The main thing that is a concern is foundering. If the horse founders you will probably lose him. My horse was on loan to a little girl and he finally died at 32. |
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Expert
Posts: 1898
| Thank you all so much! Those are hopeful words. This horse wouldn't be for longevity. We are looking at 2 to 3 years max until she is ready for my sister's old barrel horse. We are just looking for something that will help teach her the basics of rein use and noise cues to get her ready for the next step horse. Her pony is a great lead line pony and is great for older kids but he just kind of does what he wants with her and doesn't respect her tiny hands on the reins if she tries to ride by herself. I don't want her to learn to rip and jerk to get a response. I want her to learn that less is more! |
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Expert
Posts: 1898
| Bibliafarm - 2014-03-17 11:50 AM
It can not be cured but managed to extend life.
Id not go by a test either.. most cushings tests are wrong.. positive or negative.and if boss cant remember to feed horse or whatever id sure not go by what he says.
most vets will go by symptoms.. body condition etc..
.. but if horse is in poor condition amd lack of nutrition..and also most likely wormy.. my guess is you may have luck at least to get her restored to health and trail ride for a child.
He does get fed every day, he only gets the daily de-wormer and grain "when he remembers". |
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Extreme Veteran
Posts: 550
| My old mare had Cushings. She started to lose weight, and got the fuzzy coat. We gave her Vitex (Chasteberry), and it helped a lot. We never even had to step up to pergolide, and she lived with it for years without her symptoms worsening. I know that each case is different, and hers was probably mild. With my experience, I would give it a shot with the situation you described |
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Expert
Posts: 1898
| UPDATE -
My sister and I went to look at Ty last night. Upon seeing him I immediately broke down in tears. I am going to guess that the only thing really wrong with this horse internally is ibelongtoanidiotosis! He is extremely skinny but that is not the worst of his problems. This poor guy has a terrible infection in his sheath as well as a severely injured hip. Worst of all the owner was not even aware that this animal can barely walk.
It has been so long since his feet have been done that one paper thin shoe is still present on a front and a worn out half shoe is hanging off the hind foot that is not crippled. His back bone is protruding, his ribs are ever prevalent and due to his injury his left hip is severely dropped. I attached pictures but neither do any justice to the poor condition this old man is in.
I am picking him up whether he can be rehabbed or not. If the kindest thing for him is to be put down then I will have it done immediately.
It was so hard for me to see him in such terrible condition. This horse had so much try and ability and to no fault of his own I unknowingly sold him into a life in Hell. Had I of known what I know now about bleeders this horse would have never left. I am tears now just thinking about him.
http://www.allbreedpedigree.com/peppermint+tequila
 (Ty 1.jpg)
 (Ty 2.jpg)
Attachments
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 Ty 1.jpg (25KB - 223 downloads)
Ty 2.jpg (11KB - 230 downloads)
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 Road Rash Expert
Posts: 5501
Location: Near San Antonio, TX | Oh wow, this is just so sad. I am so thankful that you will be getting him out of that situation. THAT is right now the best solution. I do bet he can be rehabbed. Give the guy some love and attention, some good groceries and grooming, I bet in a couple months you will have another horse. Hopefully whatever is wrong with his hip can heal or be treated. Prayers for this guy. Please update as you can! Get him out of there!! |
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Grammar Expert
| ahhhhhhhhhh, sorry to hear that..............
Glad you're grabbing him up. I almost googled the condition, until I read it more closely. |
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Expert
Posts: 1898
| smiley - 2014-03-18 10:37 AM
ahhhhhhhhhh, sorry to hear that..............
Glad you're grabbing him up. I almost googled the condition, until I read it more closely.
haha! Sorry. |
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 Looking for Lady Jockey
Posts: 3747
Location: Rodeos or Baseball games |  |
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Elite Veteran
Posts: 999
Location: Sunny So Cal | I'm so sorry! All he looks like is he needs some TLC. I'm sure he can be rehabbed. Good luck and I pray for the best. |
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Expert
Posts: 5321
Location: Texas | Glad you are picking him up!! |
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 I Am Always Right
Posts: 4264
Location: stray dump capital of the world | How sad...Sending prayers. |
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 Expert
Posts: 2276
Location: ohio-in my own little world with pretty ponies :) | That is so sad! He's very lucky that you are taking him out of that situation. Keep us updated on him! |
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 Perky Gal
Location: On a paint horse... | As sad as it is, it is also a blessing for him that you are getting him back!! Quality care and love can make a BIG difference! I for one will remain hopeful that he 'comes back' under your care. Many prayers |
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 Duct Tape Can't Fix Stupid
Posts: 2749
Location: Warsaw,NY | Dont give up on him yet. The cushings can b managed, i have my pony on pergolide and muscle mass with immune support and blood flow mixed in. THE people will mix in whats needed. I had a mare with a dropeed hip before and she could be trail ridden. I sure hope it all works out for this poor old guy |
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 Elite Veteran
Posts: 821
| Oh Carolyn....Dont give up on him. Get some good feed and some TLC and give him some time. Brodie had cushings and I fed 1cc of pergolide daily and he lasted several years. Jessie rode him even and it is such a joy to see your child riding your childhood dream horse. What finally led me to put him down was the issue of laminitis due to the cushings but that was years later. I feel for you and your family...love you guys and let me know if you want any first hand info on cushings. Like I said, Brodie had it for several years :))) |
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Warmblood with Wings
Posts: 27846
Location: Florida.. | If i saw that id have to be saying some not so nice things.. to hubbys boss.. |
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Elite Veteran
Posts: 726
| cyount2009 - 2014-03-17 12:26 PM
Bibliafarm - 2014-03-17 11:50 AM
It can not be cured but managed to extend life.
Id not go by a test either.. most cushings tests are wrong.. positive or negative.and if boss cant remember to feed horse or whatever id sure not go by what he says.
most vets will go by symptoms.. body condition etc..
.. but if horse is in poor condition amd lack of nutrition..and also most likely wormy.. my guess is you may have luck at least to get her restored to health and trail ride for a child.
He does get fed every day, he only gets the daily de-wormer and grain "when he remembers".
I've got one with Cushings.. bought him at 21 hoped he'd last a few years to I could learn to heel.. he is a classic case.. LONG hair year rounds nearly.. has foundered prior to me gettng him...
BUT..... He's now 37 yrs old! Quit riding him at about 10 yrs ago.. he blew a back ankle and is not sound enough to ride but gets around great! Looks good for his age.. holding his weight great for his age! And is on no special feed/supplement.. gets MG 12/8 and alfalfa hay (he cant eat coastal any more) |
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 Not Afraid to Work
Posts: 4717
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What a sweet old boy. Prayers for recovery and hope to see some positive updates soon! |
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 Certified Snake Wrangler
Posts: 1672
Location: North MS | Bless him and you! |
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Expert
Posts: 1898
| Unfortunately I believe the injury in his hip is far worse than I had first expected. We tried to pull his shoes last night but he is unable to bare weight on that hind leg. He almost fell over twice. We were able to finally get him to hold enough weight on the right hip that we could pick up his left hind but only for a few seconds before the hip would give out. On top of not being able to bare weight the hip makes the worst, gut wrenching, bone-on-bone grind I have ever heard in a live animal. My husband thought I was absolutely insane when I was telling him about the sound over the phone. When he got home he had me walk Ty so he could hear it also. Unfortunately we both believe there is no hope. I believe his femur is severely broken if not shattered. 10 cc of banamine and 2 grams of bute do nothing for the pain. My fear is he is so lame and weak he will lay down and wont be able to get up while I am not home.
The soonest4 I could him in to the vet is Monday but I do not feel it is fair for him to stand that long. I will be pushing for him to go sooner so I can get a professional opinion before he is sent to the big pasture in the sky. It is the kindest thing I can do for him. |
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 Serious Snap Trapper
Posts: 4275
Location: In The Snow, AZ | Prayers for you. Maybe the vet will give a more positive outlook. But at the very least, he will have been cared for in his last days, and shown love.
I will never understand the inhumane-human capacity to mistreat a helpess animal. It's sickening. |
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I Am Always Right
Posts: 4264
Location: stray dump capital of the world | Seems like the right decisions are always the hardest. My prayers are with you. Your boy knew love, compassion and a kind touch during his final days on Earth. If your decision ultimately results in sending him over the Rainbow Bridge, he will go with love and peace in his heart because of the kindness you have shown him. |
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Expert
Posts: 2276
Location: ohio-in my own little world with pretty ponies :) | I am so sorry!! I hope that he makes it to the vet and they can give you some answers and maybe a little hope!!!! Bless you for taking him in and loving him! |
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Elite Veteran
Posts: 999
Location: Sunny So Cal | At least you saved him. Who knows how much longer he would have been in that condition with no one to care for him. |
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Not Afraid to Work
Posts: 4717
| I also hope you get some professional advice but I also see that you are making the best decision you can for him. My heart breaks for you as I was hoping this was going to a better ending.
Prayers to you and your poor guy. |
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 Elite Veteran
Posts: 902
Location: Qld Australia | Hugs to you.
We had a very valuable broodmare that we purchased with an injury similar to what your boy's looks like. It was due to human neglect and the guy was a millionaire so had the money to fix her he just didn't.
She was never sound for riding/breeding after her injury; we purchased her to embryo transfer from and due to vet error, she ended up in foal! We freaked out and took her the to the best equine vet in Oz, a few hours from us and they checked her and sai she would be sound to carry and deliver the foal. She did just that and actually birthed the foal within minutes once she went into labour.
Moral to the story, your boy may not be sound to ride but he also may be able to be helped. The mare we had, the physio said if she had been seen stright away the injury would have actually been a minor one not the major one it ended up being. Her hip was dislocated which then twisted her pelvis. One leg was shorter that the other and she had a dropped hip.
Prayers to you and what you decide to do.
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Warmblood with Wings
Posts: 27846
Location: Florida.. | Im glad you are there for him.. I believe pain is a horrible thing for them and the right thing to do is always the hardest .. but you gave him faith back in humans.. |
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 Ms. Poutability
Posts: 2362
Location: In my own world | Poor guy. I will never inderstand some people. Prayers and hugs for you both |
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Ms. Poutability
Posts: 2362
Location: In my own world | Poor guy. I will never inderstand some people. Prayers and hugs for you both |
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Road Rash Expert
Posts: 5501
Location: Near San Antonio, TX | That is just so, so sad. But you already have done the kindest thing for him by getting him out of that situation! I really don't know what the vet will say, but if the ultimate decision is to put him down, that is far, far better than where he was with no help, no hope and no glimmer of compassion from his previous owner.
Good luck with whatever you decide. God bless you for your kind heart, and please update after the vet visit. |
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 Extreme Veteran
Posts: 432
Location: Tennessee | Any updates? |
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Expert
Posts: 1898
| kdb2qq - 2014-03-24 9:37 PM
Any updates?
It was broken. We choose to send him to the big pasture in the sky this weekend. |
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Extreme Veteran
Posts: 432
Location: Tennessee | I'm sorry to hear that. I was really hoping for a better update. You did the best you could by him, especially in the end. Prayers to you and yours... |
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