Shoes, etc.

Last week I had the farrier over again and resolved to put shoes on Dude as well as replacing Matt's shoes. Matt was an angel for the farrier and stood patiently.
The glucosamine is really helping Matt with being able to stand on 3 legs when needed.

Before we began on Dude the farrier said "Are you sure you want shoes on him?' Now, understand this farrier does not say a single word that is not necessary, so for him to ask that meant he was worried. I forged ahead and am glad that I did. Dude was really well behaved on the front feet and just side-stepped a little when Bill began on the first back foot. We did not even have to put a chain on him (On the previous farrier visits Bill put a chain on Dude, but didn't have to pull on it because he recognized what it was). I like that Bill the farrier does not employ any restraints until he finds it necessary (unlike the vet I had out). Bill, Dude and I were all proud when all 4 shoes were on Dude. It was indeed a lovely day.

Dude did what I have come to expect -- when you approach his rear feet you pat his haunches and he just has to take a minute to accept what you are doing. I usually detect a relaxing of his tenseness when he is ready. It doesn't take more than a few seconds, but makes all the difference. I'm proud that I have learned to read Dude in this way.

The weather is still wet and cold and little to no daylight on the week nights. However, Saturday was warm enough for baths! I set up a cross tie station between 2 trees in the back yard with rings on screws I got at the feed store. 2 lead ropes stretch between them perfectly for cross tying! I tied quick release knots on the lead ropes at the rings in case of "panic at the disco" (LOL). Bathed Matt in his new fleece cooler folding back the sides as necessary to not chill his now 22 year old bones. He's doing great.

By the time I got to Dude it was warmer. I had my warm water bucket and stuff ready so I could stay with Dude while he was cross tied and also gave carrots. He was very calm and I think liked getting clean down to the skin. I put listerine in his water because his mane part looked crusty, but I have since learned its not rain rot, just dry skin. I tested Listerine on my skin first and it didn't burn and I also diluted it a lot. MMM, minty fresh horse. I bathed and bathed, including his hiney area and around his penis area. He didn't let down, though and I wouldn't have used the listerine water on that anyway. Anyway, my big news is that later in the day I was brushing Dude out and he did let down. His shaft is all crusty again. Bleargh! But, as I was currying around the area I tried touching "it" and he didn't have any reaction to that. (Unlike when he tried to kick the vet). So, I think under the right circumstances I will be able to clean his sheath. Only you horse folk will understand the thrill of that discovery. It just bothers the heck out of me to see the crustiness, ya know? I want it clean.

My daughter took Matty off to camp again - by the way Matt loaded like a charm going and coming back. I came down with the flu and felt like death while she was gone. I promise, on my honor, that I am going to practice loading Dude one day soon. The days are getting longer and I hope to do more than throw food at Dude every day soon! My daughter has a horse show and demonstration days coming with Matt, though, so as usual, Dude and I have to work when time allows.