My Horse’s Road to Recovery

There’s nothing more devastating than seeing your horse sick and not knowing if they will recover. I had this exact nightmare with my horse, Cameron, a few months ago.

He didn't seem quite right; he was restless, lying down and getting back up frequently and seemed to be in a lot of pain. I initially assumed it was just a sluggish day, but he eventually stopped eating completely. He hardly had the energy to move, and his head hung low. I knew something was wrong, and my heart sank.

We rushed him to the vet only to discover he had colic. The days that followed were a haze of anxiety and sleepless nights. I prayed he wouldn’t need surgery, gave him medication to manage the pain and had to alter his diet a bit. I walked him and observed his every move, rejoicing at the slightest indications of progress; a nuzzle against my fingers, a flick of his ears, or a few bites of food.

Slowly he regained his appetite and strength, and one morning as I entered the stable, he was waiting for me at the door with his ears perked up, just like he always did. I realised then that he would be alright.

Today, he’s back to his usual cheeky self, stealing treats and galloping across the field like nothing ever happened. And every time I see him, I’m just grateful. Grateful for the fight he had in him and grateful that he’s still here.