367 Days In a Stale: The Road to Recovery

WARNING: GRAPHIC

Once back at Avoca Park Equestrian, Apache was under full care and stable-bound for the duration of his recovery. His stable was coated in a thick layer of sawdust to prevent any slipping that may result in him further injuring himself and potentially re-opening his freshly stitched up wound.

Throughout the next couple of months, the vets would regularly come to check up on Apache and change his bandage to make sure that the injury wasn’t getting infected. He was also given medication to help with the pain as his leg slowly healed. His owners also took this opportunity to regularly visit Apache and help change his bandage when the vets didn’t visit and to also spend time and bond with him while he was stuck in his stable.

Apache grew to trust and love his owners more and more each day.

Apache was dotted on by his owners who always made sure he was entertained and had something to do in his stable. They would bring him treats and toys to play with so that when he didn’t have his stable mates next to him, he wouldn't get bored by himself.

After a couple of weeks, Apache’s healing process was coming along very well and he was recovering faster than originally predicted. The vets had estimated he would only need 5 months in his stable before he could start going back out into his paddock.

Unfortunately, what would’ve been a 5 month recovery turned into over a year stable-bound.

Apache had managed to reopen his original injury and ended up back at the hospital to get it re-stitched before coming back to Avoca Park. This then increased the time it would take for him to recover so his owners were prepared for a longer wait.

The first phase of his recovery involved a period of rest which eventually turned into light in-hand work, allowing his leg to begin the healing process. Apache's time in the paddock was initially limited to just a couple of hours, a cautious approach to ensure his safety and prevent further injury.

Unfortunately, Apache's injury reopened, necessitating a longer and more intensive recovery period. This setback was disheartening, but Apache's owner remained steadfast and committed to his care. During this time, Apache was fitted with a special boot to protect his leg while in the stable. His routine involved numerous bandage changes and meticulous attention to his wound.

As weeks turned into months, Apache showed signs of improvement. He was allowed back into the paddock, albeit for supervised grass-eating sessions limited to just 20 minutes. These brief moments outside were crucial for his mental well-being, offering a small taste of freedom while ensuring his leg remained protected.

After several more weeks of careful monitoring, Apache was reintroduced to in-hand work. This was a significant milestone, marking the beginning of his return to a more active routine. Gradually, he progressed to light lunging work, which helped him regain his strength and mobility.

Apache's time in the paddock increased to a few hours a day, and his owner began working with him more frequently. The focus was on slowly building back his muscle, ensuring that his recovery was sustainable and thorough. This gradual increase in activity was crucial in preventing any further setbacks.

Finally, the day arrived when Apache could be ridden again. This was a momentous occasion, a testament to the hard work and patience invested in his recovery. Apache's routine was adjusted to include daily paddock time during the day and stable rest at night, a balanced approach that catered to his physical needs and mental well-being.

After a year and a bit, Apache's boot could come off. He was back in full work, participating in regular training sessions and enjoying the rides with his owner, Amelia. The journey had been long and fraught with challenges, but Apache's spirit and the unwavering dedication of his owner had brought him through.

Apache's story is one of resilience and the power of dedicated care. His recovery from a severe leg injury to full work was a testament to the bond between him and Amelia. It highlights the importance of patience, careful management, and gradual rehabilitation in the recovery process of injured horses. Apache now enjoys his days with renewed vigor, a living testament to the triumph over adversity.