Another vote for Dr. Green. I think giving horses time is the often the best thing we can do for them. The unfortunate thing is that a lot of people either don’t have the access or the funds to do that for their horses. I am very lucky that I own my own farm and have enough acreage and additional funds that I can turn one out for 12+ months and still have other horses that are going. I think in your case if you can swing it, it is the kindest thing you can do for the horse. Maybe he won’t come back to be able to do the 3’+ like you want, but it will be much easier to find him a good lower level home if he is at least recovered and sound. But you may be surprised what time can do.
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I think getting back to 3’3 after a check ligament injury is a big ask especially given all the other issues. I’ve NEVER seen a horse come back to the same level after that. Perhaps others here have better experiences.
Personally I wouldn’t ask him to do that and I would cut my losses.
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Ugh. This is so hard!
I have two similar, but different experiences.
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My mare had a check ligament desmotomy at 2yo. I don’t recall how long, but she had limited stall rest then basically was a pasture ornament for two years (granted one of those years she was pregnant). She had one issue about 6 months after the desmotomy that required specific rehab, but I really think it was the two years in the pasture that made her a sound horse. I know it’s not the same as an injury, but it is similar. She’s 11 now and has never had issues with that leg.
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I have an OTTB with ALL kinds of problems that stem from a recently (November) diagnosed broken pelvis. He’s getting lots of injections, bodywork and shockwave to treat, but the vet was adamant that he needs to move his body as much as possible and recommended 24/7 turnout. He’s turned out 12 hours a day right now (summer in Texas makes us ALL want to stand still and not move) and will move to hopefully almost 24/7 turnout once it is cooler. He has made massive improvement and is noticeably more comfortable in his body and soundness. It looks like he’ll be able to do a 3’+ jumping career and quite frankly I thought he’d be a trail horse a year ago.
IME the more they are left in turnout the fewer bad choices they make. They seem to run and buck like idiots when being turned out or when you are trying to catch them. If you could just leave yours out 24/7 I think it would reduce the amount of shenanigans. It also helps if their pasture friend(s) are also not nuts.
If I were you I’d leave this horse in turnout as much as possible and check back on his recovery after 6-9 months. I’ve also had horses make pretty miraculous recoveries from ulcers by moving to 24/7 turnout with alfalfa hay.
Best of luck and keep us posted!
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Did you ever have a neurological exam done?
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I would give him more time. I understand your frustration, but the vets say he should recover. I have no expertise or experience in the areas where he’s having physical problems. So, I’m just going on his age, vet reports, and him having a good brain.
I don’t know how easy it would be to find him a good home. I’m a sceptic in this area. Unless the horse is show ready and a genius, I think it’s always a gamble in rehoming a horse who is having medical issues.
He has given you some great saddle time thus far, I would offer him same patience he has likely given you.
Would you be able to half lease another horse ? Or maybe ride other horses ? That might help you in the mean time in terms of your mental health and your riding. Getting on other horses is a good way to solidify your existing skills.
Good luck:-)
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