It’s impossible to put a price on one of our friend’s lives.
Last week, Royale, our 3yo, that we bred & raised, presented with colic symptoms. The vet was called. Since we are in such a remote area (4hrs to the closest surgery center) the vets always ask first thing “is this horse a surgery candidate” I usually can say “yes” for our Dressage horses, but this is a 3yo, not started, we bred, and although he is the absolute sweetest youngster, he’s a bit ‘normal’. So trying to be cognizant of the ongoing financial issues of a horse business in a remote area, I said, “probably not”. The colic progressed to a stressful point & I hooked up the trailer to haul him the 4hrs to Idaho Equine - hopeful they could manage it medically. The sweet boy, loaded right up even though he was in pain & hadn’t been loaded since he was a foal with Momma - he just naturally trusts humans! Arriving at Idaho Equine - the dreaded question again - “is he a surgery candidate?” How do you choose between finances & life? My answer begins to waiver “Probably not, but maybe”. The colic does not resolve and the poor youngster doesn’t understand why he hurts so badly, pressing his face to my chest to hold his head. A couple hours later & it’s worse - decision time - surgery now or let him go. I can’t just not try!
Surgery it is, even though the cost cannot be justified from a business perspective & is going to create an immense financial strain. I’ll figure that out later - now he needs help to live!
Surgery went very well and our sweetest boy, Royale, is home recovering. It’ll be 90 days of careful tending & rehab, but prognosis is excellent for full recovery to full sport potential.
It means he will need a stall, that won’t be able to be used to generate income in addition to the $10,000 surgery bill. (I had to split amongst 3 credit cards) But my love & care for our horses cannot be equated or justified in dollars & finances. How can we not give them the best chance at a wonderful, healthy life? So if you understand the impossible decisions faced in these circumstances & wish to contribute well wishes, funds, or even hugs - your care & understanding is seen & very much appreciated! Thank you! Marina & Royale