Thursday, April 19, 2012

Vet Visit

Gobie had his first visit from the vet--with me at least--on Wednesday. He had been vetted before I adopted him almost a year ago so he (and the rest of the horses at Bonnie's) was ready for his annual shots.


It was not a great day for it, to be frank. It had been raining all day and it was still pouring when I arrived at the barn. All the horses were in the far paddock getting soaked despite the fact that there were trees and shelter available.


The only horse with any sense was Honey, who stayed pretty try under a pine.

I thought for a moment that the vet had cancelled on account of the weather, but she was just stuck in traffic and soon everyone was ready for their turn.

As far I know Gobie was always sedated for vetting (and for hoof trimming for that matter) so I wasn't quite sure how it was going go. But the veterinarian was exceptional--understanding, calm, very patient and above all quick!

She started with a physical exam that all went rather well: checking the mouth, the teeth, and taking temperature. That part was fairly easy since Gobie is just a curious character to being with.

Then it was on to the Coggins test. Even though I have no solid plans to move him, or foresee him interacting with any new or strange horses I figured it was just best to keep on it. It was a pretty quick draw of blood--he didn't try to run off or anything after he was stuck.

The final bit were a few shots. These didn't go quite so uneventfully! After he was stuck he would want to run off--which is better than wanting to fight by kicking or rearing--but not particularly helpful. But the vet was very efficient and as soon as she stuck him she was able to push in the vaccinations and that was that. Three shots, three sticks!


I was really grateful for Dr. Hendrickson's expertise and bedside manner. We chatted a little bit and she made a comment about how focused Gobie was on me even as he was a bit fearful of what was going on. She also commented on how food motivated he was--and that he'd probably respond well to clicker training. Add that to the list!

Wednesday, April 11, 2012

April is here!

Sorry for the lack of posting lately--things have gotten busy! I plan on doing some back-posting soon. For now, enjoy some photos from the recent visit to Gobie and the rest of the gang last weekend.

The weather has been fickle lately. Summer one day, chilly the next.

Nerdily itching.

Gobie has been pretty itchy as a result. He had some crazy dandruff, and had rubbed little raw patches on his chest and neck area. Just like last year he seems to have gotten some bug bites in his ears, but using SWAT cleared it right up. The other itchiness may also be bug-bite related--which isn't surprising because our mild winter never really got the chance to kill off all those little beasties. It seems to be sorting itself out now, but we've got plans for his very first bath and a good does of bug repellant.

Sticking his head in the tree branches.

Under the tree blossoms.

Itching on the tree.

Relaxing.

Hearts, pony.