Gabriel, an 8-month-old weanling at our Willow Hope Farm, spent the weekend in critical condition and needs all the positive vibes and happy thoughts he can get. We’d noticed him laying down more than normal and as evening approached, one of our team members saw him rolling, a warning sign of colic – which can be fatal when left untreated.
We sprang into action, calling an emergency veterinarian for help and walking Gabriel around to avoid further rolling or gastrointestinal twisting. The vet tried all they could to clear the blockage to no avail. With Gabe getting more critical by the minute, we had to act fast. We rushed him to Rood & Riddle Equine Hospital for emergency care and overnight monitoring, where he remained under constant observation all weekend long.
Gabe was finally deemed stable yesterday afternoon and returned to Willow Hope Farm this morning. His treatment was intensive and required a nose tube and I.V. fluids to fully stabilize him. Now it’s our turn to closely monitor him to be sure his gastrointestinal troubles are behind him, and he’s able to properly digest his food. We’ll be constantly watching Gabriel’s energy levels, appetite, hydration levels and exercise to ensure he remains in this stable condition. Over the next week or so, we’ll begin increasing his food intake so he can slowly reacclimate to the normal levels he’s used to.
For now, Gabriel is resting in a stall conveniently placed right next to his best equine friend – Summer Jo. She’s keeping his spirits high and it’s clear that Gabe is more comfortable by the minute now that he’s back at the farm.
We are hopeful Gabe will turn the corner to a positive outcome; however, he’s not out of the woods yet. We’ll keep you posted on his progress but in the meantime, please stand beside him by donating in his honor at kyhumane.org/equine/give. Right now is an especially impactful time to give, as ALL gifts up to $50,000 are being matched by longtime supporter Janice Cooper. That means your gift will DOUBLE, helping us provide lifesaving care to twice as many horses like Gabriel. Thank you!