Chelokee update: Donated to U of AZ-RTIP

[chucklestheclown]

What a wonderful horse, the Inside Information piece on him should have won an Eclipse.

[Merlinsky]

An update from their FB page:

Originally Posted by University of Arizona Equine Sciences Program

We had a question about how Chelokee is doing on his feet. He had a bad bone infection in his left front foot over Christmas. We worked with Dr. Dryden, Dr. Shamis, Dr. Conaway, Dr. Mansfield, Dr. Pearson, and Brandon Nunn to treat it. X-rays showed the infection was seated deep in the coffin bone, and had demineralized a large section of it. With aggressive treatment and management from our above panel of veterinarians and industry professionals, we were able to beat the infection for now. Due to the bone loss, and because both front feet are compromised, he is sore on both front feet. We feel blessed for each foal, and each day we get to spend with this horse.

I had no idea the poor guy was ill. This sounds pretty nasty. Don't know what kind of long term prognosis we're looking at.

[Merlinsky]

Another update on Chelokee from UoA's Equine Sciences FB page today:

Originally Posted by University of Arizona Equine Sciences Program

Just wanted to update everyone on Mr. Chelokee. We had x-rays shot of his left front (uninjured) which had the bone infection over Christmas and there were no visible signs of infections. The x-rays did show that he had sunk some in his heel which was causing him some discomfort but he is now comfortable on that foot and doing well. We had expected some changes in that foot since the coffin bone had been compromised with the previous infection. He does have some sensitive areas in his right front (injured) heel that we are treating and hoping will grow out and heal. He just got a new glue-on shoe on that foot this morning to continue to support it and keep pressure off the sensitive areas allowing the areas to heal. Thanks to Brandon Nunn and Dr. Larry Shamis. Keep your well wishes and prayers coming for this wonderful horse. He keeps amazing me daily as does his 4 beautiful 2013 fillies! Love this guy!

[Merlinsky]

https://www.facebook.com/18218009176...type=1&theater

Photo update of Chelokee with some Valentine's Day presents he got sent. In the comments they answer questions about his physical state right now. He's missing part of his coffin bone and he's got other issues, but they're doing their best to take care of him and keep him feeling alright. His first mare this year is a QH.

[my miss storm cat]

University of Arizona Equine Sciences Program


Friday, May 2, 2014 we said good bye to one of the most amazing horses I have ever had the privilege of caring for and knowing, Chelokee. Over the past few months we were noticing a tiredness about him that hadn't been there before. The fight was still there but his beautiful body was tired and giving out on him. This big hearted, intelligent, kind horse will be greatly missed. I love you Chelokee!

https://www.facebook.com/pages/Unive...m/182180091769

[Arletta]

[Merlinsky]

Poor guy. It sounded like he was having a harder and harder time. They tried really hard to make him comfortable, and it's probably for the best now that he doesn't have to deal with that any more. It can't have been easy the last month or so.