April Happy Tails Rescue
A Happy ending for Hail
Little newborn filly, Hail, was found by AWHC darters out in the field just a few hours old. Mom was standing over her but she was unable to work her hind end to rise to her feet. At almost twice the time it typically takes for a newborn to rise, they called the Wild Horse Connection Range Management team. The range management team dispatched LRTC rescue team members, as well as Corenna Vance, president of WHC along with WHC Board Member Karen Ballard responding.
The filly continued to try to get up but her hind end didn't cooperate. The rocky field she has been born in didn’t help as originally her hind end was around a good sized rock. Team members created a barrier between mom and baby and they gently lifted the little one off to the side. They assisted her to stand and offered her some protection while she tried to figure out her legs. They had a Foal Kit and IGG (colostrum replacer) at the ready if needed.
At first it didn't look good as she wobbled and tottered, but they gave her lots of time and slowly she gained her balance, widened her stance for support and began taking steps. She fell and again needed assistance to rise. Once back up they slowly backed away and allowed mom to come in. They all stood quietly while she figured out what end to nurse from and finally latched on. She nursed well three different times before intentionally folding herself up and laying down for a rest.
This was the true test. They gave her time to rest then slowly moved in putting gentle pressure on mom and her to move away from them. Mom took several steps and finally the filly decided she better go too. She shot her front legs out wide and with a couple of heaves rose to her feet! Happy smiles and much relief were felt by the teams. It is always the goal to leave babies with their moms and horses wild on the range. Success feels good!
The next morning, a documenter was out first thing to check on them and the filly was on her feet, interacting with the band, nursing, and laying down and getting up.
Hail when she was found
Hail working on figuring out her legs!
Rescue team assisting Hail stand
Hail and mom reunited!
A great ending for all!
Genesus’ rescue
Genesus was also spotted with the wrong band by WHC diversionary feed team members and she was getting roughed up pretty badly. AWHC darter Steve Paige stayed with the band to keep an eye on the baby until a rescue team member arrived. Together they managed to get her away from the other horses and were able to grab her. They were unable to locate her family band so she was taken to LBL Equine Rescue by additional rescue team members. She had a few minor injuries and a limp from what is likely a sore shoulder. But she has a healthy appetite and is doing well!
Hazel
Hazel was found with the wrong band at just a few days old. There was a mare taking good care of her and protecting her, but she was not lactating and therefore we had to step in. Attempts were made to reunite her with her family band but her dam did not attempt to accept her back. She went to LBL Equine Rescue, but developed severe diarrhea and was taken to the vet hospital. She was there several days, and tested positive for multiple viral/bacterial infections for which she is being treated. After a plasma infusion to help her fight off her illnesses, she is back at LBL. She is still in quarantine and as soon as her fecal test comes back with good results, she will have a new friend...
