After 6 months of Koda's recommended stalling (plus bute and no hand-walking) we decided to try a different vet clinic. One that offers treatments our long-time clinic does not offer. Especially when we were given the same recommendation all over again.
I mentioned in my last horse related post that our vet is retiring. It is a big deal in our horse circle of friends. We tried whatever vet was available when Hope had her mysterious issues last Fall. We thought the on-call vet did a good job with Hope. Although everything was run past our long time vet. However, we are less impressed with how the vet handled our Spring wellness visit. Especially Koda's lameness recheck. The follow-up took weeks and made it evident this will not be our replacement vet.
We were in agreement that the original stall recommendation was appropriate for Koda's injury. For his sanity, we hand walked/grazed him a little. He has improved and his care should reflect it. With no end in sight, we, especially Koda, needed some hope. Something in addition to stall rest. Koda has handled his looong incarceration surprisingly well. However, Spring fostered a new level of unhappiness for him. In human emotions, Koda seemed depressed, frustrated and angry. Fecal Water showed up. He was more edgy. His ocassional bursts of sassy FU increased. He was calling out more.
Endless months of 24/7 in a 12' x 12' stall is not good quality of life for a horse.
When Western Medicine is lacking, it is time to try Eastern. I do not think we are being unrealistic with Koda's diagnosis. We have to advocate for our animals.
Koda has had two Acupuncture treatments to date. Brad and I are both very happy to have a plan that ease's Koda's stall sentence. Even if the plan doesn't work. At least we are trying s.o.m.e.t.h.i.n.g. We know acupuncture won't necessarily heal his injuries, but it should at least help with pain.
I find Koda's acupuncture appointments fascinating!!! We like the vet's approach and are learning a lot. My needle shy husband cringes, but does see the positive effects first hand. There are only a couple certified acupuncture/chiro vets in our area. We feel fortunate to have a good one that services our area.
After initial discussion, Koda is offered Lavender or Peppermint as choices. He went back and forth but seemed to favor Lavender. The vet then applied it along key meridians, where Qi (Chi) energy flows. Before inserting needles.
After essential oil is applied, thin pink tipped needles of various lengths are inserted into key locations. The needles stay in around 15 minutes. Some worked their way out, most are removed. Koda handled everything well and didn't even flinch.
Koda being treated for lameness & digestive health.
The vet said Koda is a bit of a mystery to figure out. Yes, he is. Always. When I got the vets follow-up report, it stated Koda had a Fire and Wood constitution. There are tons of layers to Chinese Medicine. I do not pretend to know much of anything about it, but I do find it very interesting!!
Of course I had to look it up. In part, Google said this about Fire/Wood constitutions:
Fire Constitution (The Charmer)
Energy & Traits: Fire types are charismatic, expressive, and emotionally open. They thrive on connection, warmth, and joy. When balanced, they are enthusiastic and loving; when imbalanced, they may struggle with emotional volatility, anxiety, or insomnia.
Wood Constitution (The Pioneer)
Energy & Traits: Known as the visionary or pioneer, Wood types are goal-oriented, decisive, and natural leaders. They value growth and forward movement. When balanced, they are confident and inspiring; when out of balance, they can become easily frustrated, irritable, or stubborn.
I think Koda is much more like the Fire vs Wood based on description above.
Vet recommendations are: taking daily notes of what movement seems to help/hurt. Hand walking with a goal of increasing (on his own) pace. More grooming to help move Qi. A follow-up around 3 weeks.
May 20 (9 secs)
We instantly noticed a softening in Koda's demeanor and think his mobility has improved some. His pace has increased for sure. He is reaching out more, taking less choppy steps. Yes, Koda is still lame. His digestive system (gas/manure) improved a little. Maybe.
May 27 (19 secs)
Koda just seems happier overall.
May 29
Have you experienced acupuncture yourself, or with your animals?
** Coming soon is part 2 of this topic. Covering a second appointment, recommended herbs, another horse getting treated etc.
