DUCHESS         ADOPTED

Our vet examined Duchess shortly after her arrival and determined that she had no physical problems that would have contributed to her emaciated condition - she was simply not fed!  The vet advised to delay her vaccinations until she had gained some weight and her immune system had stabilized.  We started Duchess on a special diet of complete senior feed, fresh alfalfa hay, probiotics and corn oil to help aid her digestion and gain weight.  She had several areas of fungus under her mane and on her chest between her front legs, so we had to bathe her several times with an antifungal shampoo.  She behaved very well and even seemed to enjoy the attention and cool water.

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Update:  Duchess had a mild incident of colic about two weeks after her arrival, but after a dose of banamine and a little TLC, she recovered quickly and is doing fine.  She has gained a few hundred pounds and is becoming friendlier and more trusting.  She has little to no training and does not always respect the halter and lead, but she is very gentle with a sweet disposition.  She has become the surrogate mother for our two new mustang yearlings and has helped to calm them and get them settled in.

Update: GREAT NEWS!!! Duchess has been adopted by a wonderful, caring lady with lots of experience with older horses and their special needs.  Duchess has a new name - Bright Angel - and she will be spending the rest of her life as a companion to two older retired arabian mares with lots of beautiful pasture and her own cozy stall - the life she deserves!