Shire horse with suspected neurological problem

This is our 2 year old filly, Ruby, who has developed an unusual gait in her hind legs. The problem is being investigated by an equine vet who suspects Wobblers or similar form of neuroligical disorder. She has had xrays which showed what might be an abnormality at the very top of her spine. She has since had blood tests to rule out equine herpes. The blood test did show slightly raised muscle enzymes so she had recently had a muscle biopsy on which we await the results. She has been referred to a neurological specialist at the London Veterinary College where she will shortly be going for a bone scan.

Category:

Pets & Animals

Tags:

• Shire horse
• Wobblers
• neurological
• gait

[shireslady]

Just to clarify, Ruby was put to sleep after it was discovered that she had an abnormality in her spine which was getting worse as she was growing. Unfortunately there was no treatment for it and the likelihood was that it would have deteriorated quite rapidly as she was such a big horse with a lot of growing left to do. It was a very hard decision to make but we were guided by the experts at the Royal Veterinary College. Thank you all for your kind comments.

[shireslady]

Sadly, Ruby was put to sleep on 21st August 2009. She was 2 years 4 months old. After many tests it was found that she had a deformity of the lower spine, for which there was no treatment and her neurological symptoms were likely to worsen. RIP Ruby. x

[Pfericks]

I am so sorry, she was a beautiful,beautiful horse.

[RuthanneHanlon]

I know this is old but just wanted to express my condolences. Ruby is a beautiful girl! For such giant creatures they sure can be fragile...

[TheBlackestImp]

I'm sorry. I respect your decision :(

[MissMerMer1980]

Awww. Poor thing. Sorry she had to be put down.

[horserider723]

RIP Ruby :'( may u run freely through the beautiful fields of heaven :')

[KaliJumping]

aaaaaaaaaah nearly cried :' (

[wastedonlife1410]

im sorry to hear of your loss you looked stunning and was sure to turn heads xx

[adrilahan]

I am very sorry for the loss of Ruby. I would like to thank you for uploading this video. It might help others diagnose similar problems in their own horses in the future, and that would be a great thing.

[jenniehham]

such a shame, a beautiful horse.