Update on Jessie's Lameness My 19-year-old Foundation Quarter Horse mare, Jessie, has been struggling with lameness since the first of the year.  You can find out the background from a post in early May here: Lameness and My Mare Jessie After going through the lameness evaluation process and taking it up to the point of an MRI, we decided on a treatment program.  Jessie would get one gram of Bute morning and night.  We would shoe her front feet with egg-butt shoes to increase her break-over angle.  Additionally, we packed her sole with a gel product to protect her feet.  The last part of her treatment program involved riding her 3-5 times a week. Progress? Well, it's difficult to tell.  The vet stated that her lameness score went from a "3" to a "2".  The doctor wanted us to move forward to the MRI.  Jessie is an aged horse not used in competition.  We enjoy trail riding and trail trials.  We generally do both activities at a walk.  There is no guarantee the MRI would provide a definitive diagnosis.  The most prudent approach seems to enjoy her for as long as we are able.  I suppose we could breed her.  She has good bloodlines, a good mind, and the lameness is a genetic defect.  It's something to consider. For now, we have changed her medication from Bute to Equioxx.  I'll still take her out for exercise 3-5 times a week.  If she doesn't improve, I may try swim therapy.  There is a place in town that offers it may help. I'll keep you updated on our progress. Join Us on this Journey We want you to be a part of the show.  Tell us about your horse.  Share your challenges, triumphs, or just everyday items that make horse ownership unique.  Create an audio file using the memo app on your phone.  Or, contact me and we'll set up a time to talk by Skype or phone.  Perhaps what you have to share can help someone in THEIR horse journey. You are a big part of why we do this podcast.  We really love getting your feedback.  Please let us know your thoughts, ideas, and suggestions for the show.  Email us at John@WhoaPodcast.com Thanks for listening, John & Ranae Episode #148 Support the Whoa Podcast with this Amazon Link.