Your vet really is a godsend. Thinking of you and Jasper.
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I’m late to this thread but the first thing I thought of when I read about his symptoms was Chagas disease. The symptoms in the case which is documented in the attached article are different but the spinal/nervous system involvement could cause a variety of symptoms, I would think. Chagas disease is caused by parasites transmitted during the feeding of the kissing bug, an insect present in Mexico and bordering states.
Perhaps you could ask your vet to look for T. cruzi parasites if he is planning to do a necropsy. It’s certainly not the most likely culprit, but I think it might be worth mentioning.
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Jeepers! How interesting!!!
Thank you, this is new to me!
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Hi. It’s interesting, because I have seen him yawn multiple times before, but it’s been awhile. I would have to go back through my notes to figure out when it was but I want to say it has been a couple of months since I noticed him doing it where it seemed out of the ordinary. And, I want to say that it seemed to happen when I was trying to do ground work. So maybe he was stressed or experiencing discomfort.
Thank you for sharing. I have not heard of this condition and will certainly mention it to my vet incase he wants to test for it. Very interesting.
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It is my understanding yawning is usually a sign of relaxation and release of tension.
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On a good day, yes. It can also be an indicator of an oncoming colic. Something to pay attention to, as this observant owner is doing.
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Definitely. Grateful that this was called out. I just did a quick search and learned in additional to gastrointestinal issues, it can also be an indicator for liver disease. I didn’t notice him doing it today, but will definitely keep an eye on it.
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Hi everyone. I have an update. Next week the vet will be doing diagnostic tests on Jasper. These will include a spinal tap, neuro exam and ultrasound of the lumbar/sacral region. Not sure if there will be anything else included.
On Nov 14th I will say goodbye and take him to A&M Veterinary school for the necropsy.
It’s one thing to make the decision to say good-bye, but it’s a whole different feeling having a date.
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This is so heartbreaking!
Thank you for doing right by him, including this difficult choice.
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A lot of people cheat in life and take the easy way out on things. You didn’t do that here. You are giving your friend a dignified, peaceful ending and you are ensuring that his last days will be well lived. If only every creature could live that fate. I am so sorry you have had to make this decision but I respect you SO much for doing right by your horse, even if it meant it was harder for you. You are a true horse person.
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Big hug.
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My heart breaks for you and Jasper. What a tough hand you’ve been dealt. But you are handling it so very well and that speaks to your kind heart. I will be thinking of you both, not just now or on 11/14, but for ages to come. I am sending prayers for peace and light.
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My thoughts are with you during this difficult time. Just know that you definitely are doing the right thing. Not only will Jasper be at peace, but he may also help vets learn and be better prepared to help horses in the future. That’s a great thing.
If it makes you feel better about the knowledge of the date, just remember that Jasper doesn’t operate on a calendar and he lives in the moment. He doesn’t know or care about what the future holds. And when the time comes, he’ll just go to sleep. He won’t suffer. He won’t be scared. He will simply slip away quietly. He will no longer feel pain. He will no longer feel vulnerable or awkward or out of control of his body. As a prey animal, living with these things is frightening. He won’t have to worry about any of it anymore.
Jasper is beyond lucky that he landed with someone who has the strength to do the right thing for him. Thank you for being that person for him.
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TXKing99, you are a class act. Thank you for updating us and hugs to you. I hope the tests and the necropsy offer some insight that may help other horses and may give you some peace of mind. Give Jasper a pat and a hug from us and know that we’ll be thinking of you.
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So very sorry. 
You have been a great Mom to Jasper.
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Class act for sure, big hugs. Setting the date is SO hard, though I hope in some way it’s also starting the healing process now that there’s no more guessing, no more what ifs, no more indecision on that step. Jasper sure did land in the right place, hard as it’s been for you.
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Thank you for sharing… so helpful! I will keep re-reading it, and all of your comments, as a reminder that I am doing the right thing. Beyond grateful for all the support.
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Setting the date, and knowing it’s coming, is very difficult emotionally. Please know you’re doing the right thing, which requires a combination of courage and kindness. And you have both. 
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