'Theo' Haydock

Horse of the Month June 2022

We’re delighted to introduce you to Theo, our June Horse of the Month! Theo is a gorgeous 28 year old TB who was recently diagnosed with Equine Cushing’s disease. His only symptom was just not being himself for a few weeks. His owner Victoria reports that he “just looked a bit down, he had lost his spark in his eye, he didn't really want to play with the rest of the herd”. These non-specific behavioural signs can be tricky to spot, especially as Cushing’s is more common in older horses where this gradual lethargy can get put down to being just a sign of age.

Victoria got the vet out to check Theo over and run some tests. He had been tested for Cushing’s the year before and it was negative, but his vet recommended repeating the blood test which came back as positive for Cushing’s this time.  His vet prescribed a daily medication, and his dose was gradually increased until he was considered stable. His owner changed his hard feed as well, as it was way above the ideal 10-12% sugar starch content.

Victoria reflected on her and Theo’s experience and said “When he was diagnosed my heart sank. I thought that this would be the end. I thought he wouldn't cope. But once I had time to process it I knew I had to give him a try on medication to see how he coped. He has absolutely bloomed since being on the tablets, he has a spring in his step and is like a little young man again. Has a spark in his eye and is loving life again!”