Lacey is a 14-year-old appaloosa mare who developed glaucoma and vision loss in her left eye a few years ago. Glaucoma is a disease of the eye associated with increased intraocular pressure and loss of vision. It is a painful condition for the animal, and is extremely difficult to manage medically. The appaloosa breed is predisposed to this condition, so it ultimately led to the surgical removal of her eyeball for her comfort and well being. A few months ago, Lacey developed glaucoma and vision loss in her right eye. On November 1st, we removed the eye in the comfort and familiarity of her home. A benefit in doing the surgery at home using standing sedation, is that it would be extremely disorienting for a blind horse to recover after anesthesia. We are happy to report that Lacey is doing extremely well and is getting back to her regular work! Lacey’s good nature and easy-going temperament has allowed her to adjust to her new life with very few issues. Her owner has provided this wonderful update that we would like to share with you:
“Lacey is adjusting better than I could have ever imagined. She has shown a fierce independence from day one and has tried her best at everything I’ve asked of her along this journey. Her new found independence brings its fair share of sass and a new personality I can’t say I’ve seen over the past eight years we’ve been together, she knows what she wants and she’s determined succeed. Lacey moves around her paddock and the field with ease, with the exception of the odd bump or trip. She uses her face like a set of hands, slowly and meticulous searching for things. It’s truly fascinating to watch her. She has a next door neighbor, Norman, they’re infatuated with each other and she always seems to know exactly where he is at all times and positions herself just so. We started back to work (lunging) just shy of two weeks post op. She has been hard at work regaining balance, figuring out where her feet are and adding speed. Rest assured, when she’s ready, we’ll be dusting off our saddle.”
