Bob
Bob
STATUS: REHABILITATION
BREED: Unknown - Standardbred?
AGE: Unknown
GENDER: Gelding
TRAINING: Halter broke, will be evaluated at a later date
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AUGUST 2010 Angel Horse Rescue was called to pick up a horse from the local auction stockyards. We were told that he had arrived on an overcrowded trailer and when the trailer was reloaded to continue its journey, Bob was left behind. Most likely headed for slaughter, this old guy was "lucky" enough to be the skinniest, weakest horse in the load and therefore, worth the least. The owner of the auction contacted us to see if we could take him in and get him off the premises before the sale that evening. We loaded him up and brought him home to the rescue. He's very weak, dehydrated and full of bites, cuts and swollen bruises from his trailer ride from who knows where and for how long. From the locations and looks of some of his injuries, the vet feels that he went down on the trailer at some point, and its obvious from the teeth marks, scrapes and contusions that he was bitten and kicked repeatedly. His bloodwork indicates that he has no underlying conditions, infections or diseases causing his emaciation. He is slightly anemic and some enzymes relating to muscle are elevated, but these are all resulting from malnourishment and starvation and should improve with time as he is fed regularly with good quality feed. Initially, we thought he may have spinal injuries or some neurological disorder because he staggered often and occasionally drags his rear end, however the vet feels that the majority of this awkwardness is due to weakness and lack of muscle plus Bob appears to be a Pacer, which means his normal gait consists of both legs on each side moving together rather than the more common gait of horses which walk with diagonal legs moving together. Bob will be getting a medicated bath today to ease his many injuries and to wash away the bacteria and fungus infected dirt and grime. He is somewhat distrustful of humans, and tries to avoid being caught however he is so weak that he gives up very quickly and is already beginning to understand that we are here to help him.
NOVEMBER 2010 Bob has been progressing very well and has gained quite a bit of weight. He is much friendlier now and has regained his strength and energy. He is a sweet fellow and enjoys being groomed and brushed. He has almost reached a normal weight and will be available for adoption soon to an approved home.
