Phase 2: Getting to the Bottom of It

Cascade is starting to feel the effects of a light sedative for her ultrasound procedure. She's been to plenty of veterinary appointments, but hopefully this one provides some much-needed answers. She was showing signs of hindlimb lameness and pain in the hip- this led to a diagnosis of trochanteric bursitis, but it seemed like the initial porblem was elswhere, likely a soft tissue injury to her hock.

Will waited nervously while the procedure was preformed, and while the ultrasounds were being analyzed. He had to sit for a long time while another expert was contacted.  At long last, the vet came back with an answer. She had damage to superficial digital flexor tendon- it was unclear what had initially caused the injury, and it was likely the culmination of micro damage over time.

With an uncertain past, it will likely never be known exactly what caused her pain, but now Cascade has a brighter future. The road to recovery will be months, if not years, long. Will and Percy are also both fully aware she may never be fit for competition, but she will always have a home with them.

After many hours, a tired Cascade is finally allowed to return to the stable. Will gives her some extra treats and a scratch at the withers. "We've got answers." He whispers to her. "You'll start feeling better soon, I know it."