With no clear answer, I bit the bullet (with Peach) and opted to x-ray the leg to be sure there wasn't a fracture. At least it would rule something out. After a mild sedative we got Peach on her side and I held her, although she was quite peaceful, for the films.
The doc took 4 films, different angles.
Later Friday afternoon the doc called to say nothing was broken. So it must be a torn ligament or tendon. A slow heal if at all. But she did suggest a 5 day course of steroids, one injection per day, with a continued half dose of the anti-inflammatory. I gave Peach her first shot yesterday. This morning no improvement. But she has an appetite and is calm...seemingly accepting her plight with her chum Crystal. We are having a miserable rain storm today and I suspect they are sharing sheep smiles in their high and dry digs despite the confinement. Tonight at chore time, Peach was up and putting ever so little pressure on that hoof. I am looking for any improvement and it was ever so small but perhaps a ray of hope. I know most farmers would cull Peach at this point. It's too expensive and time consuming to treat. But I have to see it through. If she heals, awesome! If she doesn't I have already accepted that reality. For now she is calm, eating, perhaps healing.
If you say prayers, please include Peach. She's a lovely ewe and a special friend.
Meanwhile back at the winter barn Griffin is holding court at the hay racks....
Oh Nancy, I feel for you and Peach. Leg injuries in livestock can be so dang fickle. Lots of prayers heading your way and a big hug for seeing it through when it would have been more cost effective another way.
ReplyDeleteA little weight sounds like improvement. Another thing, you said you were having a rain storm, while not the cause maybe a touch of arthritis could also be keeping you from seeing larger improvement. You sure Griffin isn't looking for a baby or something in that manger?
Peach is in my prayers. xxx
ReplyDeleteIt's never easy, is it? Absolutely the best wishes for a good recovery for Ms. Peach. And hugs to you.
ReplyDeletePoor Peach, I hope her leg improves soon. She is lucky to have such a dedicated owner.
ReplyDeleteYou and Peach are in my prayers!! May her leg heal and stay healed.
ReplyDeleteThank you all for putting Peach in your prayers. She still will not put any weight on that leg and I have one day left to give her of all meds and then the rest is up to her. She is resting a lot, still eats and has been quite snuggly as if to say thank you. I wish I would see just a little improvement...perhaps tonight, perhaps tomorrow.
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