Many horses helped by Friendicoes Equine Program

AAA partner group, Friendicoes had a number of cases during February which needed urgent attention. The horses treated were very lucky that the team were there and able to assist. The team found that with marketplaces opening up and owners getting work, the general condition of the animals is improving, but there still some distressing cases treated.

The first case was of a horse suffering from colic. It was restless, frequently lying down and getting up, and suffering with impaction. Pain killers and laxatives were administered and fluid therapy started. A rectal enema was also given. After these treatments, the horse recovered well.

One horse had sustained a laceration above it’s eye from sharp metal sheets, while it was moving on the road, while another horse had lacerations to it’s hind legs from sharp fencing wire while grazing. The wounds were cleaned with antiseptics and sutured, with antibiotics, painkillers and tetanus vaccine given.

Another laceration treated was quite horrific, especially as it was caused by the use of an illegal spiky bit which had severely sliced into the horse’s tongue. Three quarters of the tongue was damaged and the horse was in a lot of pain. The team sutured the tongue, with much difficulty, applied Boroglycerine and gave painkillers and a tetanus vaccine. The team spoke to the owner who promised never to use spiky bits again. The team advised that if he does, they will legally book him for cruelty.

Another disturbing case treated was that of a horse who was hit on the road by a tractor, crushing and damaging part of his nasal bone. After treating the injury the team wanted to confiscate this horse, but the owner was unwilling to surrender it. The owner is under strict instruction to allow plenty of rest for this horse.

It’s not just horses that benefit from the care provided by Friendicoes - the team also rescued an abandoned donkey who had suffered a fractured leg which was left neglected healed incorrectly.

Thank you Friendicoes for all you do.