Well... that was an interesting morning. River has been here for over a month and is proving our most challenging Mini yet to tame. We know nothing about her history, but she seems basically wild. She is curious and interested in us, but will not suffer to be handled in any way, shape or form. She is one of those 1 out of 100 that will run right through you if she's cornered. Fight or flight to the max. So - today was our second attempt at a vet visit for her. I pre-drugged her prior to the vet's arrival this time, to take the edge off. I offered her handfuls of grain, over the fence so that she'd be confident enough to take it, and managed to slip a tube of gel under her tongue. That enabled me to corner her and halter her without too much fuss. The vet then punched in some more sedative intra-muscularly, to bring her down another notch. We could then get some IV drugs into her. However - it was definitely a challenge still! She had quite a variety of drugs in her, at rather high doses, by the time we could attempt to do the work that was needed.
In the past, we've had a few Minis who required horse-sized doses and even up to three times a large horse dose. The next step up for River would have been an actual wild animal tranq! She should have been flat out, but was actually still nickering and keeping her head up. She just felt that she had to take care of herself and could not let it go. A very determined spirit!
Finally though, we talked her down and she allowed us to do the dental work she required as well as an ultrasound to check if she was pregnant. Seeing as her buddy Raven was confirmed in foal today, it was important to know if River was as well. Luckily - she is NOT in foal! Now, she is up to date on teeth, vaccinations and worming - a morning well spent!
So, Raven will be staying with us through the winter and I'll be setting up the MareStare cam next year so that everyone can help us on foal watch again! Though we will of course love having a foal around, it is still bittersweet. There are so many Minis out there who need good homes. It always boggles my mind when folks decide to breed a mare period, let alone breed a mare and then dump her.
In other news... Maggie and Twila were indeed both adopted. As was Pistol! All three are already much-loved!
Tutanka is now back here at our main facility, keeping River and Raven on their toes. ZigZag has taken his place being fostered at Deb's. She has a lot of experience dealing with digestive issues, so we are hoping that she can straighten him out. She suspects ulcers at this point.
Bo and Chocolate are still here, just waiting for a great home that wants a sweet pair of boys. Basil is hanging out at Horseplay Your Way and loving it. I am so grateful to have these awesome foster homes to call on!