Foal has Botulism?

[MareMc56]

Help!!...I've got a foal born 2/3/08 who is now @ Hagyard and they are suspecting Botulism...they're really not sure what she's got...won't get the tests back until tomorrow morning...Mare was vaccinated...anyone out there have any experience with this...very healthy baby up to now but was a little dull late yesterday afternoon but nothing noticeable other than that... first thing this morning she wouldn't get up...had to have help walking the first 20 steps or so to load onto the van...any suggestions...not that Hagyard doesn't know what they're doing but just putting this out there...and a few prayers would help...Thanks

[Mood Swings]

Jingles to you and your foal Hope the little guy is going to be okay.

[Outermonvolia]

Clostridium botulinum is an anarobic bacteria (lives without oxygen) found in soil. All barnyards have it. The bacteria gives off an exotoxin which effects the central nervous system. Symptoms include respiratory difficulties, muscle weakness, and paralysis. Some cases result in death. Means of entry are ingesting dirt or wounds getting infected with dirt containing the bacteria. Hope this helps a little.............

[MareMc56]

Heard from Hagyard this a.m....so far so good...it is Botulism...we caught it early and she is improving and is expected to make a full recovery..phew!...still praying for that full recovery.

[nferro9925]

MareMc56 - Our prayers are with you and your new filly.

I hope all is well.......soon!

[MareMc56]

Thanks to all for your thoughts and prayers...heard again this
morning from the vet..no improvement overnight
but she's stable...may have to go on ventilator for a bit so
as of now it's wait and see..seems like the next couple days
are going to be the worst so as long as she continues to
remain stable and doesn't regress that's the best that can
be expected for now..I've attached a picture of her @
3 days old...only one I have...I feel better looking @
her healthy than imagining her @ the clinic.[img][img]http://i198.photobucket.com/albums/aa206/MareMc56/SafeAgain2008FillybyBowmansBand2-1.jpg[/img][/img]

[Strategic Maneuver]

I know what you are going thru, lost my first filly this year to neonatal septecimia after a week and half at the clinic. Every time the phone rang, my heart skipped a beat or two. She's a beauty and I am pulling for her!

[Jessi P]

So sorry to hear your girl has botulism - I am jingling for you and for her darling little self to get better.

[serenarider]

What a pretty girl. Jingles for her.

[MareMc56]

Good News!...she is responding very well to treatment ...temp is down and looks like she's on her way to a full recovery..they are amazed she's actually gained weight...keep going little lady!

[Strategic Maneuver]

Yeah, that is good news. Was hoping you would keep us updated on her. Any idea when you can bring her home?

[MareMc56]

Doing even better today!...they originally told me if all went well she would be there about 10 days...this is day eight...can't wait to see this vet bill!...but as long as she's healthy I'll figure out how to pay it...thanks again to all for your caring thoughts.

[MareMc56]

Mom and Healthy Baby are coming home today!!!...12 days @ Hagyard...time to eat some bluegrass and get on with life @ the farm.

[Toccet02]

Oh excellent--I'm relieved.
Enjoy!

[Strategic Maneuver]

Wonderful!