Penelope is a four year old mare who came to us from a starvation case. See more information about this case on the "Funk Road Horses" page. Although there were other horses in this case who were very thin, Penelope is a "1" on the Henneke scale, a measurement of the body condition of a horse, a "1" meaning very emaciated. Penelope was born with some congenital problems which, because of lack of veterinary care, contributed to her weight loss. She has a deviated jaw and wry nose (lower jaw slid to her left and the nose is positioned to her right). Penelope may also have crushed tarsals, which are the bones of the hock. Her hocks touch in back but it doesn't stop her from galloping and kicking out now that she has mush in her tummy four times a day! Along with refeeding for starvation, we are also addressing an infection in her left hind, a skin infection and sand in her gut. Only time will tell if this very sweet horse will come through her difficulties. She is one of the most loving horses we have met, seeking human contact and attention. She just loves to be loved on! For the moment, Penelope is happy and eating all that we put in front of her. Watch for updates on her progress in the weeks to come.
Update: January 30 - It's been about six weeks since Penelope came to us. She has gained enough weight to be considered well on her way to recovering from starvation. The leg infection, skin infection and sand in her gut have also been corrected. She was floated for the first time last week. Her mouth is a work in progress. It will take several more floats to correct the years of negligence and then because of her congenital deformity, she may always need some form of mush. Penelope has shown a greater capacity to process hay after just this one float. She is happy, bucks and rears and tears around with her pal, Shania, and looks like she could be sound enough to carry a light-weight rider at some point. Shania is being sponsored by our friends and volunteers, Matt and Debbie Girard, who come and love on her at least three times a week.