[Phase 3] Relaxation

After a month of trial and error, Elara discovered a routine that provided actual relief to "Mr. Itchy." Though the diagnosis of sweet itch was disheartening—and frustratingly incurable—Elara realized that a combination of daily cleaning and weekly oatmeal-treated baths made a major difference. Along with keeping his pasture, stall, and run-in spotlessly clean, the soothing baths moisturized and healed his sore skin.

The stallion's coat eventually improved, and the rubbed areas grew back. Every weekend, he stood calmly throughout the soft rinse, nearly falling asleep as the oatmeal bath worked its magic. The task developed into a little ritual that both the horse and Elara enjoyed.

For someone more active, this weekly care may have felt like an annoying chore. But Elara treasured these quiet moments. After each bath, always followed by a well-deserved cookie, the two would go for a slow walk along the old trails. With the worst of the rubbing and rashes behind them, those quiet strolls felt like hard-earned successes, a quiet reminder of their blossoming closeness.