Molly: Only has about 2 more years to live.

[petlover]

I got some terrible news this morning. I don't really know what to say. I feel so bad.
M



Molly has always had a problem with her legs twisting. Everyone kept on saying it would be ok. ( Since she was born like that .)
But, now I know the truth. Noone was telling me because.... Well, because I love animals so much. But they had NO RIGHT to hide it from me.
Molly is developing arthritus in her back legs. There is nothing that we can give her to cure it. The arthritus is too packed in there. In a couple of years Molly's legs are just going to collapse on her and we are going to have to put her down.
I will be able to enjoy atleast a year with her.

But the day we have to lay her in the ground...

Will be the day I cross my heart...

To never slack on loving...

To anyone anywhere... ( Sorry if you did not get that...

[Tonya]

I am so sorry to hear that. How old is Molly?

[petlover]

Molly is 22. She is too old to start her on some medication anyways. It would just make her sicker...

[trayi52]

I am sorry to hear about Molly, I was wondering though is Molly a dog? Sorry to be so ignorant, but jut wondering.

[petlover]

Oh no!!! You are not being ignorant. Molly is a horse.

[carole]

I am so sad to hear this about Molly, yes I was wondering is Molly a dog, I ask because I have seen dogs who have attachments, that have wheels on the back, for dogs who can no longer walk, or have had some injury,(like in the film Babe in the city), I wonder if that is a possiblilty for Molly.

If not just cherish the moments left you have with Molly, each and every one will indeed be precious, as long as you can keep Molly comfortable and medicated with Pain relief, her last years should be ok.

HUGS to you, I know you are feeling awful just now, and there is not much one can say to ease your sadness, just know we are all here for you ok sweetie.

[dukedogsmom]

Have you tried MSM in her food? I've heard it helps a lot and it could prolong her problem. I would talk to the vet and see what other options you have. I wouldn't give up yet. A lot can happen in 2 years. Have faith for her. It could make a lot of difference. Definately check on the MSM, though.

[trayi52]

Okay, she is quite a horse, so she is 22 did you say? How long have you had her?

[Desert Arabian]

There are a some things that can be done for Molly to reduce her pain and help her feel better!!

You have to work with the affected legs. Stretching them is an excellent way to battle arthritis. Pick up the sore legs and stretch them slowly forward and backwards, about 10 times. Do that exercise about 3 to 4 times a week. By doing this it helps the cartilage in the knees, and helps the soft tissues. The stretching also works the muscles, improves the circulation to the arthritic areas, helps prevent injury, etc.

Hmm...what else might help Molly!?!? *Thinking*

Call the equine vet and talk to him/her about possibly putting Molly on joint supplements. There are many nutrients that help the horses joints, and the supplements that the vet gives you will improve the joint health of Molly. This is probably the most important thing.

Put ice on the joints. Hold it on there for 5 minutes then take it off for about 15 minutes, then put it back on for 5 minutes. Do this about 3 times in a row.

You could also put on a standing bandage to reduce the inflammation/swelling of Molly's joints.

EDITED TO ADD: 22 years old is not too terribly old, she can still be treated. There are horses at my local barn & camp that are 30+. Heck, old man Thunder passed away a couple of months ago at the age of 36 I believe.

[petlover]

Originally posted by trayi52
Okay, she is quite a horse, so she is 22 did you say? How long have you had her?

I have had her for 2 years I believe.

[petlover]

Originally posted by YellowLabLover
There are a some things that can be done for Molly to reduce her pain and help her feel better!!

You have to work with the affected legs. Stretching them is an excellent way to battle arthritis. Pick up the sore legs and stretch them slowly forward and backwards, about 10 times. Do that exercise about 3 to 4 times a week. By doing this it helps the cartilage in the knees, and helps the soft tissues. The stretching also works the muscles, improves the circulation to the arthritic areas, helps prevent injury, etc.

Hmm...what else might help Molly!?!? *Thinking*

Call the equine vet and talk to him/her about possibly putting Molly on joint supplements. There are many nutrients that help the horses joints, and the supplements that the vet gives you will improve the joint health of Molly. This is probably the most important thing.

Put ice on the joints. Hold it on there for 5 minutes then take it off for about 15 minutes, then put it back on for 5 minutes. Do this about 3 times in a row.

You could also put on a standing bandage to reduce the inflammation/swelling of Molly's joints.

EDITED TO ADD: 22 years old is not too terribly old, she can still be treated. There are horses at my local barn & camp that are 30+. Heck, old man Thunder passed away a couple of months ago at the age of 36 I believe.

Thanks for all of the info.. I will try it!!

[bluekat]

I'm sorry to hear about Molly, hopefully she can get better by what YLL told you to do.
Who knows, she might get to live for a lot more years!

[Cataholic]

I am sorry to hear this news about Molly. BUT, there is alot of time left, in my opinion!

I know water exercises help humans with arthritis..would it help Molly, too?

[Felicia's Mom]

I have not suggestions for you. Just want to say how sorry I am.

[Desert Arabian]

Originally posted by Cataholic
I know water exercises help humans with arthritis..would it help Molly, too?

Most likely YES! Because it takes all of the weight off the joints so it is easier on the horse, just like with people!