Frank J. Buchman

Cowboy • Horseman • Writer

Hurting Tummy Serious Concern

“A bellyache can really be painful making it such nothing can be done but groan.”

Maybe kick the stall until somebody comes to see what in the world is going on.

It was Monday morning after two days at horseshows away from the ranch and now back home Maggie started kicking.

Beating her hind legs against the steel stall, loud banging was heard inside the kitchen 100 yards from the barn.

Maggie was obviously hurting very badly, begging for some relieving help, making it known the best way she could.

Her neck was wet with sweat when turned out into the indoor arena where she immediately started rolling.

There seemed some relief when Maggie stood back up with head hanging low sad look in her eyes.

Checking on the buckskin mare just a few minutes later, she came right to the fence for pacification. Her stomach was still hurting for sure.

Now, that is a serious situation dealt with in other horses through the decades. It can be different problems, maybe just stomachache or colic.

While they’re bad even sometimes with serious consequences, other problems like compaction and twisted intestine are generally worse. Treatment for these ailments is complex, frequently ineffective with higher mortality.

Worry and concern for the very sick still beautiful show horse were rapidly increasing.

Walking a horse is generally advised to help indigestion, relieving pressure and discomfort.  Maggie went both Number 1 and Number 2, which seemed positive signs.

But there was still lots of heartburn soreness as Maggie aggressively bit at her own sides. She started kicking into the air and wouldn’t lead despite coaxed tugging.

Then, Maggie moved forward slightly and started walking Glare in her eyes softened; she was certainly feeling more herself.

Better be safe than sorry, an emergency visit was made to the veterinarian who gave Maggie a complete go-over.

Medication and no feed for a while and then just a little was the doctor’s orders followed precisely.

One small setback caused concern, but now moving forward with caution. Sick horse is sick family.

Reminded of Isaiah 14:3: “When the time comes, He will give relief from your pain and suffering.”

+++ALLELUIA+++

XII–26–6-24-18

The Latest: