Hi, my name is Abbey and my sweet boy, Ty, had surgery on Monday October 23rd. I’ve had him for 10 years now and he’s been my best friend and the most brave trail riding partner a girl could ever ask for.

Back in July, Ty and I were galloping in a field when his leg gave out, and he fell. Fortunately, a broken ankle was the only injury to come when he landed on me. It was very unexpected and I kept trying to think of why he fell like that and assumed it was a soft patch of grass underneath us that he must have slipped on. Little did we know there was an underlying issue finally making its way to the surface.

After getting x rays, we found that Ty has severe arthritis in his left hind leg to the point where it’s bone on bone. Arthritis doesn’t happen overnight and we think he couldn’t bear any more weight on it as we were riding that day.

The x rays look super painful and we are in awe of how he went this long without ever limping or showing any pain. Our vet described him in one word —stoic. After much discussion with the vet and a few surgeons, they found Ty to be a good candidate for the surgery —Pastern Arthrodesis.

While I was laid up on crutches all summer, I kept wishing I never went on that ride. However, after learning about Ty’s condition..I started to thank God I did get in the saddle that day. The accident was a blessing in disguise.

The decision of whether to proceed with the surgery or not was heavy on my heart and mind for the past few months. The cost being the biggest factor. Yet, after praying about it, I knew surgery was my only option. I don’t want my best friend living his remaining years uncomfortable and in pain every day. Managing his pain daily through medicine and other treatments was not the way I wanted Ty to enjoy the rest of his life.

My student loan payments (with interest) kicked in last month and now with Ty’s surgery, I have been struggling. This was a big decision to make, but I will do anything to keep my best friend comfortable and happy. Anyone who knows me sees that Ty is the light of my life. He has the most gentle, kind soul and I don’t want to see him in any pain throughout his remaining years.

Your donation will help cover the surgery cost, as well as additional x rays and medicine needed during his recovery phase. No matter how big or small your donation is, every little bit helps. Thank you for taking some weight off of my shoulders. Your donations, thoughts, and prayers mean the world to Ty and I.