Beethoven is not with us anymore.
This morning, after a long talk with our Vet we agreed to not operate Beethoven. His chances to heal were so slim but the pain he was about to confront was so high that out of respect and love for Beethoven I decided to let him go to sleep. I cannot explain what a difficult decision this was, nor can I explain the pain I am feeling now.
Lucky has lost a long time friend – we shall miss you Beethoven. Happy Trails!
Thanks to everyone who donated supplies for Beethoven’s surgery.
The surgery will be performed by Dr. Matteo Tognato from Ferrara ad will consist of the removal of the hoof wall in order to remove the infection. The foot will then be medicated and placed in a cast. Initially this procedure will need to be repeated every 2-3 days and eventually at longer intervals.
Beethoven will be placed on pain medication and antibiotics and the hoof will begin to regrow. The cost of the surgery, including post operative care, will be approximately 1,500-2,000 euros (the cost of each treated bandage used to form the cast is 8 euros and we will be using 2-3 at a time).
We will keep you posted and if you wold like to give us a hand with expenses it would be greatly appreciated.
COD IBAN: IT43M08805644890008008900302
EZ’s Place, a non-profit horse shelter, provides on going care for horses as well as specialized treatment. A case in point is Beethoven’s frog canker. After a year of intensive 3X a week therapy there is finally a definite improvement. One front hoof is cured and the other on is almost there. Only consistency and dedication can result in this type of outcome. Thanks to Evelyn and Chiara (a Super volunteer) for their tireless work.
Frog canker is an infection which invades the superficial epithelium of the hoof. Its symptoms are a putrid odor and the presence of a white cheese-like substance. It is not certain what causes it but it may be a virus. To avoid its development the hooves should be kept as clean and dry as possible and it is advisable to regularly trim and medicate all the affected areas.