Rehabilitation

posted in FSHR Horses, Mission, Rehabilitation | Friday, February 11th, 2011

Veterinary Assessment

Once a horse is rescued, the horse is given a veterinary assessment. The veterinarian examines the horse and from there a rehabilitation plan is formed.

The examination may include a visual examination of the horse’s apparent health, body condition score, a dental exam, a pregnancy check if applicable, and blood work if needed.

At Fresh Start, the horse is put in quarantine for two weeks. Rehabilitation begins with a nutrition plan, a vaccination and deworming schedule, and administration of any necessary medications.

Our farrier comes promptly and assesses the condition of the feet, and performs a trim or corrective trim or corrective shoeing, if necessary. The horse then receives regular trims and hoof care.

Training is a part of rehabilitation, and every aspect of horse care is a training and trust-building opportunity.

When released from quarantine, the horse is assessed as to whether it is appropriate for it to go out with the herd, or should be kept in a holding pen with near-by buddies, for training or special feeding requirements.