A family went to check on their beloved horse, Doc, who they had entrusted a friend to look after. But they were shocked to find him severely underweight. Concerned for his well-being, they immediately brought him home and reached out to us for help.
Meet Doc: An Old Soul
Upon arrival, we welcomed Doc, a gentle old guy who is at least 28 years old. All he wants is a peaceful place to retire. Dr. Metcalf came out to examine him, and our hearts went out to this sweet horse as we learned more about his condition.
A Closer Look
Our vet examined Doc’s eyes and determined that he is completely blind in one eye, likely due to an old ulcer. Fortunately, this doesn’t cause him any pain.
We also took precautionary X-rays of his feet, which revealed they were in decent shape, though a bit thin-soled. However, Doc has some old injuries to his back legs, so he’s now on a daily pain management plan.
Weight Gain in Progress
The most urgent concern is that Doc desperately needs to gain weight—about 250 pounds to be healthy again! To aid in his recovery, we’re providing him with soaked grain to accommodate his lack of teeth and plenty of fresh alfalfa hay. Every bite is a step toward regaining his strength!
Time to Settle In
We’re giving Doc 2-3 weeks to adjust and put on some weight. Once he’s settled, we’ll be able to vaccinate him and ensure he’s ready to thrive in our Sanctuary. For now, he’ll stay quarantined to keep him safe and protect the rest of our herd.
A Bright Future Ahead
Thanks to the loving family who brought Doc to us and the support from our community, he’s on the path to recovery. We’re grateful for every moment we get to spend with him and are committed to ensuring his golden years are filled with love and care. Stay tuned for updates on Doc’s journey!
