While Pegasus was at the hospital being treated for pneumonia, her veterinary team discovered something unexpected.
She wasn't able to sweat.
It may not sound like a big deal, but for a horse (especially one growing up in the Texas summer!) it's incredibly important. Sweating is how horses regulate their body temperature, and without it, they can quickly become overheated.
At this point, we don't know if this is something Peggy will outgrow. Sometimes young foals simply need a little time for their bodies to mature and figure things out. Until then, we're doing everything we can to help keep her comfortable.
Looking Beyond Traditional Treatments
This isn't the first time we've cared for a horse with this condition.
Two of our previous rescue horses struggled with an inability to sweat, and both responded incredibly well to acupuncture.
Because Pegasus is still so young, however, asking her to stand quietly with acupuncture needles isn't exactly realistic.
So Dr. Metcalf chose a gentler alternative...
Cold Laser Therapy to the Rescue
Instead of needles, Dr. Metcalf performed cold laser therapy, which stimulates the same acupuncture points without piercing the skin.
First, he used a pen to evaluate Pegasus' meridian points, helping identify which areas of her body were the most reactive. Not surprisingly, her lungs showed the strongest response, which makes sense given her recent breathing challenges. He then carefully treated each acupuncture point with the cold laser, holding the laser over each location for several minutes before moving to the next.
The entire session lasted about 15 minutes.
Best of all? Pegasus was completely relaxed the whole time. The treatment is painless, and she didn't seem to mind it one bit.
Already Seeing Encouraging Signs
Cold laser therapy typically takes about seven days before its full effects are seen. But Dr. Metcalf noticed something encouraging almost immediately.
He could already feel a positive change in the way Pegasus' body was beginning to release heat.
It's a small but exciting step in the right direction.
Keeping Peggy Cool
For now, we'll continue keeping a close eye on our little girl.
We'll monitor her carefully for any signs that she's beginning to sweat on her own, take her temperature during the hottest part of each day, and give her cooling baths whenever she needs a little extra help staying comfortable.
One Step at a Time
Pegasus has already overcome so much in her young life, and she continues to amaze us with her resilience.
Every milestone (big or small) is worth celebrating, and we're hopeful this innovative treatment will help her stay healthy, happy, and cool through the Texas summer.
We'll be sure to keep you updated on her progress!
