First pedicure

When any member of the equine family is rescued, if they can walk, hoof care is often the last issue addressed. It takes a lot of trust for a prey animal to give over control and let someone lift their foot – their only means of escape. Donkeys are no different.

As the old ranchers say, “no hoof, no horse.” It is so true. These two were not in bad shape when adopted, but Susie and Carol were committed to their total care. The first trim was part of their adventure.

Carol did all she could to reassure Styx and Louie they wouldn’t be hurt.

They were not convinced.

When the vet injected a sedative, Styx clearly warned Louie “there is a huge bee on the loose so watch out for the sting!” His head gently drooped and he didn’t speak for a minute.

Then the big authority approached to lift his foot. “No way, Dude! Nope!” Scooting away was his only escape route, but he was cornered between the vet and the fence and finally submitted.

The tiny hooves are adorable and look quite different from the horse hooves I am used to seeing.

For such little guys, the donks put up quite a fuss. The farrier’s face was getting redder by the minute.

I’m sure he thought he could simply overpower them because he was bigger. I don’t think he understood who he was dealing with.

After a couple of hours, the donkey’s ordeal was over. Much comforting was offered.

After that day, Susie and Carol found a farrier who specialized in donkeys. No sedation was needed, and the boys acquiesced to the gentle Whisperer.

To be continued…………..