Classy

Unfortunately I didn't save the side view I initially had of Classy, so we are left with this rear view.

Not that it's a bad rear to see! Everyone who saw the pictures I got of Classy picked her as the favorite of the two. She's just built right I guess with lots of "class" to her. Although she isn't marked like an Appy, she has been DNA tested to verify that she is "pure."

When we saw her in Ohio, she was obviously in pain. Our trainer noticed right away that she had contracted heels and thrush. She also had pain from arthritis, but we knew this going in. She was very willing to be ridden though, and I thought that was a positive aspect to the situation. She like Keo, settled down as soon as Nicole got on her, and rode with soft hands. Another positive aspect.

The worry we had was that her pain might be coming from something other than the thrush and arthritis...in other words the big N - navicular. I made the decision to buy her anyway, because the price was just so appealing.

I am very happy to say that as of yesterday she is moving with out any indication of pain. We had her checked by the vet - no navicular. We had her trimmed, and I treated the thrush and within a week it disappeared. She still has contracted heels, and likely always will. There's not a lot to do about that from what I gather. This means that she will have a higher chance of thrush, from dirt and bacteria getting stuck around her frog. (sorry about all the horse terms) Basically think of it as if a hunk of camel got stuck between your teeth. Eventually it would cause pain to the gum right? Same difference. If she stands in mud and manure for extended periods, or is stabled, the mud and manure sits against her flesh and starts to cause problems.

She is definately feeling better. She has a "happier" attitude. The supplements I am giving her for her arthritis are kicking in nicely also.

Shyla loves her. She can't wait to ride her and see what she can do. It will be an intersting year, this is certain!