OH NO. IT’S BACK!

Yesterday was yet another busy day. Dr. Julia came out to run blood work on Peaches, Addi, JoJo, Jazzy, Valley Girl, Danni, Mo, Skye, and Walker, whilst some of the boys had their sheaths cleaned. JoJo and Jazzy were not at all happy about their procedures and were still pouting about it last night!

And now for some not so good news. Jo was kicked late last week and the next day, the area where she was injured was swollen. We monitored her temperature and appetite, both of which have been normal, but as the swelling continued to worsen, we opted to proceed on the side of caution and have her tested, and when the results came back, our fears were confirmed – Jo had Pigeon Fever.

“Pigeon fever in horses is a contagious bacterial infection caused by Corynebacterium pseudotuberculosis, commonly causing large, painful abscesses in the pectoral muscles (chest), abdomen, or inguinal area, often peaking in warm/dry seasons. Transmitted via flies and contaminated soil/wounds, it requires isolation, careful drainage of abscesses, and prompt veterinary care to prevent severe, long-term complications.”

Pigeon Fever does not pose a danger exclusively to horses however, as other animals including cows, sheep, goats, llamas, alpacas, etc. are also susceptible to this insidious disease.

Since we have had no horses enter of leave the farm for several months, the extremely dry conditions have most assuredly, contributed to Pigeon Fever resurfacing from beneath the ground once again this year. The vet will be back this evening to lance and drain the injury on Jo’s chest and fluids will be collected. Our bio-security protocol has been activated, with foot baths, gloves and fly-control measures in place.

Jo lives with Valley Girl, another senior mare. Valley Girl was the first horse who was stricken with Pigeon Fever in January 2025 and the last to recover from it in June 2025. She, thankfully, has not presented with symptoms at this time.

Lastly, if you would like to contribute toward our beloved little herd’s ongoing medical expenses, it would be so greatly appreciated. Just click on the ’Donate’ button below. If you are unable to contribute at this time, however, we ask that you please send prayers for rain, Jo to quickly recover (she’s almost 40 years old!), and no spread of Pigeon Fever.