03/07/2025
We will never know what was written in Romeo’s first chapters of life. What we do know, is that his last and most important chapter began in February of this year when he was rescued by Gerda’s Equine Rescue. He had been dumped at an auction as a 20+ year old cryptorchid stallion, with severely overgrown feet, an old injury to his right front leg, and infested with lice. Gerda was able to have him gelded, and clear up the lice. They also had an initial trim done on his feet. Upon arrival we immediately wanted to address his right front leg, as it was very crooked and seemed to be causing discomfort. We worked with our vet to perform diagnostics and determine how to best support Romeo going forward. X-rays revealed a severe injury affecting the coffin bone. The bone, which should be level is completely collapsed on one side. There was likely a traumatic injury that affected his collateral ligaments and was never treated properly and allowed to heal correctly. If Romeo were a full sized horse this would have been a life ending injury. Due to his small stature Romeo has been able to adjust to this injury, and is able to get around. We are working closely with our vet and farrier to help Romeo be as comfortable as possible. Romeo has a new brightness in his eye and his personality is starting to shine through. We are hopeful that he will be able to enjoy his last chapter with the love and care he so deeply deserves. (Please note: The photos in the start of the video with a rider are of Romeo immediately before his rescue, while still in the kill pen)
