The vet was out to see Valley Girl on Wednesday as she had some significant edema under her stomach. She seemed a bit off at the beginning of the week, but she did not have a fever. Her heart and respiration rates were normal, her gums were of normal color and she was eating her five meals a day.

Dr. Valle listened to her heart, lungs, etc. and did not believe there were any issues. Valley Girl does have an open sore under her tummy, which, when cleaned up, did exude some puss. Although Valley Girl’s bloodwork results were relatively normal, she has been started on antibiotics.

Valley Girl is staying at the barn for now and is being closely monitored. Once we get her over this issue, we will make an appointment for dental surgery.

She has EOTRH Syndrome which involves degeneration of incisor and canine teeth which sometimes may involve cheek teeth as well. Over time, the roots of these teeth are resorbed or dissolved. Surgery can be performed while standing, but the horse must be heavily sedated. Without surgery, the disease will progress. Valley Girl is a bit up there in age, but aside from today’s edema issue, she is in good health.

Lastly, we are in the midst of ensuring that each member of our beloved herd have ‘Pretty Feet’ for Easter, so if anyone is in a position to assist with this need, both horses and humans alike, would be forever grateful. Just click on the ‘Donate’ button below.