ChrystalPaths
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I copied and pasted my answer on Frankie's thread about her mare. One asked the question: "what is cast?" We have so many new members I figure its time for a review and share session for those new to us and/or minis. Please share your experiences and solutions.
My stallion Glow got badly cast in his stall this year and he may never be right again. I can only pray. Here is my reply to Carolyn. (And Carolyn...I hope your mare and foal continue to improve)
FIRST...there are NO stupid questions.
Being cast means a horse has lay down but too close to the wall or fence or gate with their legs on the inside wall side rendering them unable to get enough purchase to push up and back to get up. They struggle and wiggle and scrabble the walls many ending up side down.
It is very scary and important to get them up safely. One usually will grab the down side legs and roll. If that is not possible drag the horse away from the wall by the tail or rear leg just pivoting the angle the horse lies and help them up.
Check gum color and body temp. Many go into shock from the feaf, lack of water and blood flow. Banamine is super important for serious casts until you can get vet help if needed. Offer water room temp and soft hay. No grain for a while. Sometimes a sponge bath with tepid water is super if they are are sweated up.
The most important thing is to keep the horse calm and not hurting yourself or it while fixing the cast. Some panic and kick and thrash. It is worth the minute to take and calm and pet your horse assuring it that you will help. Use a soft calm voice and gentle hand. Panic and fast moves can only make things worse.
Remember your horse is already tired and scared and you are it's mom and he/she knows you will save her/him. Hope I explained it well. I hope others will give their input also. Maybe it's time for a new thread on casting again. We have so many new members.
My stallion Glow got badly cast in his stall this year and he may never be right again. I can only pray. Here is my reply to Carolyn. (And Carolyn...I hope your mare and foal continue to improve)
FIRST...there are NO stupid questions.
Being cast means a horse has lay down but too close to the wall or fence or gate with their legs on the inside wall side rendering them unable to get enough purchase to push up and back to get up. They struggle and wiggle and scrabble the walls many ending up side down.
It is very scary and important to get them up safely. One usually will grab the down side legs and roll. If that is not possible drag the horse away from the wall by the tail or rear leg just pivoting the angle the horse lies and help them up.
Check gum color and body temp. Many go into shock from the feaf, lack of water and blood flow. Banamine is super important for serious casts until you can get vet help if needed. Offer water room temp and soft hay. No grain for a while. Sometimes a sponge bath with tepid water is super if they are are sweated up.
The most important thing is to keep the horse calm and not hurting yourself or it while fixing the cast. Some panic and kick and thrash. It is worth the minute to take and calm and pet your horse assuring it that you will help. Use a soft calm voice and gentle hand. Panic and fast moves can only make things worse.
Remember your horse is already tired and scared and you are it's mom and he/she knows you will save her/him. Hope I explained it well. I hope others will give their input also. Maybe it's time for a new thread on casting again. We have so many new members.