 Veteran
Posts: 164
  
| I bought a gorgeous 6 yr old AQHA mare about a month and a half ago. I got her home and after a few days realized her gait was off, seemingly from her hips/lower back. After a wide array of lameness exams, x-rays, and nerve blocks, we moved to a neurological exam and found she definitnely had some neurological deficiencies. She doesn't stumble, and can run in the pasture just fine. But, she toe drags, will stand with her legs crossed indefinitely, and just seems weirdly lame/weak in the hind end. Because I'm a softie and fell in love with her instantly, I decided to go down the testing/treatment for EPM route. The previous owner told me I could bring her back and get my money back, but I don't think she would have had the funds to treat her. She did eventually send me my money back on her anyways, so I'm glad I kept her. We did the blood test and her titer was the highest my vet has ever heard of. She was at 98% positive even at 8x diluted. We also tested her Vitamin E level, and it was within normal range, slightly on the high side. We ordered the generic of Marquis (Marquis is on international backorder), so it's compounded Ponazuril paste. We also ordered Levamisole for immune system support. We are doing the loading dose of 30mg Ponazuril 1x/day for 2 days, then 20mg on the 3rd day, and 10mg each day thereafter. We are doing 5mg Levamisole 2x/day. I have her on the complete grain (local manufacturer) that I have all my horses on, HorseGuard, and Equerry's natural sourced Vitamin E. Her hay is grassy alfalfa (approx. 30% alfalfa). She was underweight when I got her but has put a good amount of weight on in the time I've had her. We got the meds and started treatment today. Anyways, the reason for my long post is that I just would love to hear stories, opinions, supportive care/supplement ideas, etc. Of course I know there is a chance she won't be rideable, and I may just be doing this for her to be a pasture pet. But at least I'll know I saved her life. Any experience or help would be greatly appreciated. 
|
 My Heart Be Happy
Posts: 9159
      Location: Arkansas | She's beautiful, and you're amazing for doing all this to make her life better. She hit the jackpot with you. Please keep us posted. Will send up prayers I bumped up a thread for you; if you search there are several that discuss EPM. .
Edited by Chandler's Mom 2019-12-23 11:03 PM
|