[BONUS PROMPT #1] Vet Check

 [Image Transcript]

Name: Pirate

Breed/Type: Loshenka

Identification No.: 11106

Dam: Unknown

Sire: Unknown

Age: Estimated 10 years

Sex: Stallion

Coat Colour: Bay

Height at Withers: 16hh

Evidence of Behavioural Issues: Y/N

Blood Drawn: Y/N

Conclusion:

Body condition - good, no significant remarks on limbs

Extensive scar tissue found in mouth, mostly located around opening. Injuries align with damage expected from repeated misuse of bit over an extended period of time.

Examined and Reported by: Sarah Willis

Veterinary Surgery: Arndale Veterinary Surgery

Date: 04/06/2025

Signature: S.Willis

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Progress Diary: Pirate

4th June - Day 4

Pirate had his first vet check today, and it seems I’ve gotten myself some answers for the behaviours the rescue reported him having. I feel so sorry for him, it must have been so painful to have someone pulling on his bit so frequently and so harshly that it left so much scar tissue. My poor boy.

I’m so angry at his previous owners, how could you let that happen to an animal supposedly in your care? I’ll make sure he never has to experience things like that again.

The rest of his vet check went smoothly at least, and the vet didn’t find anything else concerning. He was such a good boy for his check-up, though I did notice him showing some of those same avoidance behaviours he was exhibiting when I first saw him. At least I know where I can start with him physically now. His dental check and farrier appointment are set to later this week, so we’ll see if they reveal anything else.

5th June - Day 5

Today I’m making a plan of action for Pirate’s rehabilitation. His dental and farrier visits are still pending, but since he got an all clear everywhere but his mouth from the vet, I’m confident that I can make a start on working on his issues now. 

My initial plan is to learn more about his behaviour on the ground, and to see if I can bring him out of his shell. He’s still quarantined from my other horses for the time being, but I’m hoping I can put him in with Pan as I think that would benefit him. 

My first step will be seeing how he behaves in hand, so I’m giving him the furthest paddock out to give me the opportunity to lead him past the main stableyard. From his rescue paperwork and his behaviour whilst trying to load him, I have the impression that I’ll have my hands full trying to keep him focussed on me when he inevitably sees something that interests him more. This is going to be a slow process, with lots of positive reinforcement for each instance where he chooses to stay with me rather than making his way towards whatever else he likes, but I’m up for the challenge.

The idea is to get him focused on me, and for me to become someone he trusts before I attempt any mounted work with him. I think that will be my best shot of having him listen to me when I am eventually in the saddle.