Red-1
I used to be decisive, now I'm not so sure...
Thank you again. I will duct tape the spacer on and and then we are good to go!
I just bought my first cob! Introduction + feed advice + photos!
- Thread starter Red-1
- Start date
Red-1
I used to be decisive, now I'm not so sure...
I was away with H at camp this week, so Mr Red was left in charge of Rigsby. He was a little perturbed as, when he agreed to take a week off for Rigsby care, it was before asthma. He really doesn't want Rigs to fall ill while I'm away!
Rigs is kind of high maintenance, and I had a raft of instructions for nose Vaseline, masks, Ventipulmin, leg care, foot care, fly prevention etc. as well as feed/forage/turnout.
Mr Red was a champ and Rigs is in top order. Down to 1 scoop Ventipulmin morning and one night, cough reasonably controlled, leg mallenders controlled, good condition in weight, had his turnout... all immaculate! I am so lucky!
So is Rigs!
Rigs didn't miss H one little bit, they are quite independent.
Today Rigs had his weekly leg clip and wash, along with a full bath. I did the thick part of his mane in a running plait.
Beautiful horse!
The vet is coming on Tuesday to prescribe more Ventipulmin and an inhaler spray for the Aero Mask, just so we are ready if it kicks off again. His asthma comes on fast and is quite scary.
Meanwhile, H had a great time at camp. He is growing up. I will add a couple of photos...
I am so lucky, two beautiful boys!
Rigs is kind of high maintenance, and I had a raft of instructions for nose Vaseline, masks, Ventipulmin, leg care, foot care, fly prevention etc. as well as feed/forage/turnout.
Mr Red was a champ and Rigs is in top order. Down to 1 scoop Ventipulmin morning and one night, cough reasonably controlled, leg mallenders controlled, good condition in weight, had his turnout... all immaculate! I am so lucky!
So is Rigs!
Rigs didn't miss H one little bit, they are quite independent.
Today Rigs had his weekly leg clip and wash, along with a full bath. I did the thick part of his mane in a running plait.
Beautiful horse!
The vet is coming on Tuesday to prescribe more Ventipulmin and an inhaler spray for the Aero Mask, just so we are ready if it kicks off again. His asthma comes on fast and is quite scary.
Meanwhile, H had a great time at camp. He is growing up. I will add a couple of photos...
I am so lucky, two beautiful boys!
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SashaBabe
Well-Known Member
Fantastic photos.
Bradsmum
Well-Known Member
And they are lucky to have you and Mr Red too. Great pics, baby horse looks good and looks like you both had fun.
Muddy unicorn
Well-Known Member
If Rigs is still having flare ups it would be worth looking into the flexineb. We use ours with saline solution as a maintenance treatment and so far (touch wood) he’s not needed steroids since a flare up in November. We were very anxious about using steroids as he is the definition of a good doer, but ventipulmin made no difference and our specialist respiratory vet said antihistamines would be pointless as horses metabolise them differently to humans so we didn’t have much choice when he first developed asthma two years ago. However, he’s been fine when he’s been on them and we’ve been able to wean him off them quickly so minimising the amount of time they’re in his system. The flexineb was hideously expensive but it’s very easy to use, horse is fine with it on and his breathing is now completely normal most of the time.
Red-1
I used to be decisive, now I'm not so sure...
Rigs has been on his inhaler a good few days now, is coping with the mask well, and has... stopped coughing - Yay!
He has an improvement to his patio: the road planings were fine for his feet (amazingly) but I hate it when bedding and haylage messes them up. We have a blower that we use once a week but, in winter, it wasn't always dry enough to be effective.
So, I bought some stable mats and he has a sweepable area!
The weather has finally cooled off this afternoon, so I have made arrangements for Rigsby to visit the local care home for a PAT on Wednesday, weather permitting. If it rains heavily, it will be out as he parades on the back lawn and I don't want to wreck it. If it is too hot, it is also out as he is an old man and won't be travelling.
Fingers crossed for perfect weather!
The residents loved it last time and Rigs was proud as punch!
Whilst it has been scorchio, he has been out at night, muzzled. I have worried about that though as the grass is stressed and he was longer on it. With the cooler weather, he is reverting to two shorter sessions.
He has an improvement to his patio: the road planings were fine for his feet (amazingly) but I hate it when bedding and haylage messes them up. We have a blower that we use once a week but, in winter, it wasn't always dry enough to be effective.
So, I bought some stable mats and he has a sweepable area!
The weather has finally cooled off this afternoon, so I have made arrangements for Rigsby to visit the local care home for a PAT on Wednesday, weather permitting. If it rains heavily, it will be out as he parades on the back lawn and I don't want to wreck it. If it is too hot, it is also out as he is an old man and won't be travelling.
Fingers crossed for perfect weather!
The residents loved it last time and Rigs was proud as punch!
Whilst it has been scorchio, he has been out at night, muzzled. I have worried about that though as the grass is stressed and he was longer on it. With the cooler weather, he is reverting to two shorter sessions.
Red-1
I used to be decisive, now I'm not so sure...
Gratuitous Rigsby photo!
Red-1
I used to be decisive, now I'm not so sure...
Rigs was washed and brushed up this morning. He saw the lorry ramp down and jumped aboard because...
... today was the day for him to visit the local care home!
I impressed myself with reverse parking into a tight spot! Rigs was fab.
There were many photos taken but these had informed consent for use on the Internet!
... today was the day for him to visit the local care home!
I impressed myself with reverse parking into a tight spot! Rigs was fab.
There were many photos taken but these had informed consent for use on the Internet!
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chaps89
Well-Known Member
Fantastic.
I hope if I’m old and doddery in a care home that someone brings a Rigsby-a-like around for me to pet. I imagine you made those residents day
I hope if I’m old and doddery in a care home that someone brings a Rigsby-a-like around for me to pet. I imagine you made those residents day
GoldenWillow
Well-Known Member
I love, love, love this ❤ it makes me feel emotional and like chaps89 I hope if I'm ever in a home there would be a Rigsby visiting.
Red-1
I used to be decisive, now I'm not so sure...
It was the same as last year, most of the residents I didn't recognise but one used to own 4 horses over her years, one had a mother who ran a riding school so he grew up with them, another man used to work with them and another lady used to compete at SJ.
Last year there was also an ex-farrier and a lady who used to ride point to point.
I agree, when I am that age I hope someone brings a Rigs for me to see.
Last year there was also an ex-farrier and a lady who used to ride point to point.
I agree, when I am that age I hope someone brings a Rigs for me to see.
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Bluewaves
Well-Known Member
Looks like Rigsby really enjoys being the centre of attention. What a class act ?
Lexi_
Well-Known Member
I think Rigsby is such a joyful presence in this world. He seems to make everyone smile!
SashaBabe
Well-Known Member
What a fantastic thing to do. I'm sure the residents loved it. Well done Rigsby (and you, of course).
DizzyDoughnut
Well-Known Member
Rigsby is such a star, he makes so many people happy! His old owners must be so pleased that he's having such an amazing time with you and touching so many peoples lives.
Red-1
I used to be decisive, now I'm not so sure...
The care home has put a 'public' FB post on about Rigs' visit. Some fabulous photos of Riggers being kind and thoughtful. My heart bursts for him.
https://www.facebook.com/Snaithhall...879pny8bR8MwdW3LKD1WthE7bjVRMq4UHLNn2ZbyUDmsl
https://www.facebook.com/Snaithhall...879pny8bR8MwdW3LKD1WthE7bjVRMq4UHLNn2ZbyUDmsl
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Red-1
I used to be decisive, now I'm not so sure...
Meanwhile, his younger brother has been having fun at a beach camp
!
Rigs neither seems to notice or care when BH goes on his holidays. The big news is that Mr Red has announced that he LIKES Rigsby. All that male bonding time is paying off ?
I was at a low point in confidence when I got Rigsby. I appreciate that he picked me up and gave me the confidence to strike out and buy a 4yo, unseen from Ireland and then bring him on. Magical!
Photos bought and courtesy of Victoria Adams Photography.
!Rigs neither seems to notice or care when BH goes on his holidays. The big news is that Mr Red has announced that he LIKES Rigsby. All that male bonding time is paying off ?
I was at a low point in confidence when I got Rigsby. I appreciate that he picked me up and gave me the confidence to strike out and buy a 4yo, unseen from Ireland and then bring him on. Magical!
Photos bought and courtesy of Victoria Adams Photography.
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Errin Paddywack
Well-Known Member
Fabulous update for both. I do envy you the beach ride.
SEL
Well-Known Member
Stunning photos!
ElleSkywalker
As excited as Kitty about to be a bridesmaid
I KNEW Mr Red secretly liked Saint Riggers ?
Red-1
I used to be decisive, now I'm not so sure...
I think Mr Red has surprised himself!
Red-1
I used to be decisive, now I'm not so sure...
Thank you. What I like is that they are 2 very different horses, doing their very best at what they can do. Both feeling entertained and proud.
Red-1
I used to be decisive, now I'm not so sure...
H went to yet another camp, this time we met up with ycbm and Ludo for a fantastic time on the farm ride. Meanwhile, Rigsby has been just fine!
Today is the first day of a new school term, a fab, grounding, way to start, tending to the boys.
Rigs' breathing seems under control with the inhaler. Good times!
Today is the first day of a new school term, a fab, grounding, way to start, tending to the boys.
Rigs' breathing seems under control with the inhaler. Good times!
Red-1
I used to be decisive, now I'm not so sure...
After watching 24 year old Emma at the funeral, I really think we can appreciate the oldies. I was also astonished how alike Emma and Rigsby look.
Rigs has his asthma under control. It only takes a few puffs with the inhaler morning and night. He takes the inhaler no problem. So… I decided today to saddle up and ride! We just did the short block, just 1 mile on the flat, but it does set off down the main village street. Rigs hasn’t been worked at all for 3 months, but he looked pleased when the saddle came out and stood perfectly at the block.
We had only just strode out onto the main road before being overtaken by a horsebox, then some cars, then 2 motorbikes. He perked up at the bikes, but never broke pace, just lifted his knees a little higher. We met a man with a hedge trimmer, cyclists, dog walkers, 3 cars on the single track road where we have to squeeze through. Rigs also managed to sidle over to our parcel box for me to empty it and proudly carried the parcel home with me.
Super champ.
You know, I really think I would have trusted Rigs to do Emma’s job with Her Late Majesty, The Queen.
Once home, he stood like a rock for leg clipping and washing and is now back at grass, telling H all about his adventures. I guess we just need a compliment of marmalade sandwiches to complete the picture!
Rigs has his asthma under control. It only takes a few puffs with the inhaler morning and night. He takes the inhaler no problem. So… I decided today to saddle up and ride! We just did the short block, just 1 mile on the flat, but it does set off down the main village street. Rigs hasn’t been worked at all for 3 months, but he looked pleased when the saddle came out and stood perfectly at the block.
We had only just strode out onto the main road before being overtaken by a horsebox, then some cars, then 2 motorbikes. He perked up at the bikes, but never broke pace, just lifted his knees a little higher. We met a man with a hedge trimmer, cyclists, dog walkers, 3 cars on the single track road where we have to squeeze through. Rigs also managed to sidle over to our parcel box for me to empty it and proudly carried the parcel home with me.
Super champ.
You know, I really think I would have trusted Rigs to do Emma’s job with Her Late Majesty, The Queen.
Once home, he stood like a rock for leg clipping and washing and is now back at grass, telling H all about his adventures. I guess we just need a compliment of marmalade sandwiches to complete the picture!
View
Well-Known Member
Rigs is my sort of horse 
As I get older, I realise just how wonderful horses with this temperament are. May you have many more happy years together.
As I get older, I realise just how wonderful horses with this temperament are. May you have many more happy years together.
scats
Well-Known Member
I love Rigsby xx
Red-1
I used to be decisive, now I'm not so sure...
Rigs has been simply hanging out since I last posted. He has an upgrade to his accommodation though, he now has 'double glazing' fitted in his in/out door so, if it is a bad winter, it is a little more insulated in the stable yet he can still get in and out at will. If it gets really cold, I have spare strips to fill the gaps. I'm sure he will still go through like a bull in a china shop.
Both stables have a front and back door but Rigsby's is in line with the prevailing wind and the double layer of strips seems to have cut the breeze through the stable down. Rigs never seemed to care, mind you, he just used to stand round the corner!
Rigs is more an outdoor horse anyway, and prefers no rug. That said, he does like to go to bed during the night for a slumber on his mattress.
This week, he had the vet for teeth, but they were so good the vet decided not to do them! The vet is an actual qualified dentist as well as being a vet, I choose him as, in addition to being an expert with teeth, he doesn't ever (or at least usually) need to sedate. It costs a bit more for him, but he has a great manner where he actually gets to know the horse first and gets into their space in a smooth manner, not upfront or brusque.
Rigs had a worm count, already returned a zero, yay. He is waiting for his cushings test but is not really showing symptoms. The vet says he is in just the right condition for his health, but has agreed that, as the grass dies back and he starts with all-weather turnout, he can put a little on for winter. But not much more!
Today, he went on another ride, the first one since 24th September. Again, he was keen to be saddled and go, then marched down the main road, meeting 4 motorbikes, 2 horseboxes and various cars/vans. The only issue we had was when passing the local show centre, where he rather fancied a visit (he has competed at dressage and clear round X pole jumping, as well as some arena hires).
He is only doing a mile in total, as he is (obviously) not at all fit. I think we will do the little ride more often as he really enjoys it.
That's it, Rigsby's life to date!
Both stables have a front and back door but Rigsby's is in line with the prevailing wind and the double layer of strips seems to have cut the breeze through the stable down. Rigs never seemed to care, mind you, he just used to stand round the corner!
Rigs is more an outdoor horse anyway, and prefers no rug. That said, he does like to go to bed during the night for a slumber on his mattress.
This week, he had the vet for teeth, but they were so good the vet decided not to do them! The vet is an actual qualified dentist as well as being a vet, I choose him as, in addition to being an expert with teeth, he doesn't ever (or at least usually) need to sedate. It costs a bit more for him, but he has a great manner where he actually gets to know the horse first and gets into their space in a smooth manner, not upfront or brusque.
Rigs had a worm count, already returned a zero, yay. He is waiting for his cushings test but is not really showing symptoms. The vet says he is in just the right condition for his health, but has agreed that, as the grass dies back and he starts with all-weather turnout, he can put a little on for winter. But not much more!
Today, he went on another ride, the first one since 24th September. Again, he was keen to be saddled and go, then marched down the main road, meeting 4 motorbikes, 2 horseboxes and various cars/vans. The only issue we had was when passing the local show centre, where he rather fancied a visit (he has competed at dressage and clear round X pole jumping, as well as some arena hires).
He is only doing a mile in total, as he is (obviously) not at all fit. I think we will do the little ride more often as he really enjoys it.
That's it, Rigsby's life to date!
SaddlePsych'D
Well-Known Member
Aww so great to hear he enjoyed his march out! His mane looks fabulous too
Fraggle2
Well-Known Member
Love a Rigsby update. He's such a dude ?
Red-1
I used to be decisive, now I'm not so sure...
Rigs has gone round the block (1 mile) four times in 8 days. He is rocking it!
He has been fine with no inhaler this week until, today, he tried a little trot when something made him spook. I'm talking a few jog strides and a head up snort. He was fine, but coughed a few times after, so I puffed a couple more puffs of inhaler into him. Won't be long until he is done with it though.
Last week, with the turn in the weather, Rigs decided he would rather stay on his inside/outside stable/patio arrangement. Rigs is that old and wise, I don't argue (read for that - Rigs does pretty much what Rigs wants!), but that is why he has come back into a little ridden work, as the patio alone isn't really enough movement.
His bloods came back healthy again last week. So, with normal bloods and a reduction in grass, he is now on a little hay to eke out the rather expensive haylage, being as he is apparently processing sugars well.
Once the inhaler is finished in the next 10 days or so, he will be back to a totally drug free, 'normal' horse. As normal as a Rigsby can be anyway!
He has been fine with no inhaler this week until, today, he tried a little trot when something made him spook. I'm talking a few jog strides and a head up snort. He was fine, but coughed a few times after, so I puffed a couple more puffs of inhaler into him. Won't be long until he is done with it though.
Last week, with the turn in the weather, Rigs decided he would rather stay on his inside/outside stable/patio arrangement. Rigs is that old and wise, I don't argue (read for that - Rigs does pretty much what Rigs wants!), but that is why he has come back into a little ridden work, as the patio alone isn't really enough movement.
His bloods came back healthy again last week. So, with normal bloods and a reduction in grass, he is now on a little hay to eke out the rather expensive haylage, being as he is apparently processing sugars well.
Once the inhaler is finished in the next 10 days or so, he will be back to a totally drug free, 'normal' horse. As normal as a Rigsby can be anyway!