Rescue colt (12 mos old) Skinny/poor

smokypocolena · Yearling Joined: 28 Apr 2008 Posts: 18

I had someone call me about a 12 month old AQH Paint stud colt that is being kept in a VERY SMALL area with another colt. The area MIGHT be about 100' x 100'. Not a blade of grass and they are standing in mud. Both of them are VERY skinny, ribs, hips all showing. Coat is greasy feeling. Since I used to be involved in rescue with dogs and I have room for another horse, I was asked if I would foster this colt. The lady who owns him just got divorced, took him to a friends (where he is at now) and was a paying a boy to come feed hm (which obviously he has not been doing). When out there, there was no water, we filled up the buckets and they drank AT LEAST 10 gallons non stop. The owner had a Coggins pulled this weekend and also had a vet give his shots. Once I get him to my place, what steps do I take? I will have him gelded as soon as he drops. I have 6 acres of rye/bermuda. Should I just let him graze and then start supplementing with feed very slowly? How about worming? I have no clue where to start. Thank in advance.

smokypocolena · Yearling Joined: 28 Apr 2008 Posts: 18

just posted pics......http://www.freewebs.com/viladabxrs/index.htm

one okie gal · Posted: Mon May 19, 2008 8:35 pm Post subject:

I don't think I'd let him loose out in the pasture to glut himself full of grass all at once. I'm pretty sure that would be asking for trouble that you don't want. I would call around and ask either the local extention service or a couple of vets (or if you are lucky and live near OSU or UC Davis call them) and ask how much grazing, feed and hay to start them out with, and how often as it may be better to feed smaller amounts with plenty of water several times a day. Be sure to ask them how often and how much to increase the feed.

Also ask them what you should do regarding worming while he is in this kinda shape. They may recommend less than a full dosage or a specific product.

In fact, I'd call the vet that pulled the Coggins and gave the shots as it would seem he should've given some advice at that time, whether it was asked for or not.

Don't know what to tell you about a greasy coat. I don't know if it is a symptom of dirty or of something else. Maybe he just needs a good bath.

Good Luck!

crysann · Posted: Tue May 20, 2008 9:42 am Post subject:

I agree with one okie gal, definatly need the vets advise on this one, I could give you a few ideas, but since he's so thin, I think it's best that a vet hold your hand through the first few weeks, because you could shock him, or do serious hoof damage.
I own a SPCA rescue mare and it took about 6 months to get her back to "normal" and that was with a vet visit every month until he said she was free to graze openly, he had her on a very strict diet and worming schedule. Now, my mare was further gone than that little colt (she couldn't even stand when we rescued her), but you get the idea.
Good luck
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bullsie · Active Member Joined: 26 Jan 2005 Posts: 200

Agree! Get your vet in. You colt can be gelded anytime he is physically up to such a procedure - which your vet will help you decide. But, whatever you do, his weight gain must be slow. And very slow. He has a lot of growing to do and under normal conditions his body would be far more advanced. Unfortunately, once feed starts being introduced the body tends to 'think' it needs to catch up - and things don't grow the way they should then - out of timing. Again, your vet and local rescues can help you design a program for him.

Excellent for rescuing and Wish you the best!

EAhola · Member Joined: 10 Jan 2005 Posts: 152 Location: Colorado

If you're not having a vet take a look at him --- don't forget his teeth. Poor nutrition could effect teeth -- which in turn --- could effect how he eats/breaks down food.

It must be very hard to see what's going on. I would sneak in the middle of the night an cut that fence line. That is if they aren't by a highway and close to grass fields. They might bloat - just depends on what's out in the fields.

Good Luck and keep us posted. I bet he'll be a whole new boy in 2 months.
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horsewoman1965 · Posted: Mon Jul 21, 2008 8:11 am Post subject:

Any updates on this?
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