Lizzie Update
Report by Meg Puckett, Herd Manager
Lizzie has been at NC State for a week now, and is doing well, all things considered. She’s comfortable and has adjusted to hospital life just fine. Eating, drinking, not stressed out, and has even gained a bit of weight. So that is good!
Her wound, on the other hand, is not so good. Yesterday she had the first of probably several surgeries to treat the infection. The wound was debrided and a regional limb perfusion was performed (this is when antibiotics are administered directly into the affected leg). This is exactly the same treatment Riptide received last year, but unfortunately, Lizzie’s infection is far worse than his was and has caused some secondary issues to arise, like arthritis in her knee. So she is very much still in the woods, and will be for a long time. But as long as she is comfortable and our vets think she has a chance, we will keep fighting for her.
As you can imagine, Lizzie’s vet bill is adding up daily. Because of your generous support, we are able to focus on making sure she is receiving the best care possible. Please know that we do not take that generosity lightly, and we recognize the trust you place in us to care for these horses. Thank you.
(The plastic part hanging off Lizzie’s halter is called a bib, and it works the same as a cone on a dog – prevents her from chewing at her bandage. She can still eat and drink normally.)
Another Update July 12, 2021
Lizzie with her filly, Rabbit.
We have some sad news to share this morning. On Friday, at the recommendation of our veterinary team, we made the difficult decision to euthanize Lizzie. Her condition deteriorated quickly at the end of last week, and on Friday it was clear that not only was the infection in her leg getting worse despite aggressive treatment, she was suffering physically and emotionally.
We’d like to extend our heartfelt gratitude to the team of vets and other staff at NC State for their exceptional care of Lizzie. This was not a normal case and they went above and beyond to work with us and our local vet to make sure we were doing everything we could to save Lizzie, while keeping her comfort and wellbeing in mind every step of the way.
Thank you to everyone who donated towards her care, sent well wishes, and asked about her over the last couple weeks. You helped us make sure Lizzie had the best chance possible, and for that we are extremely grateful.
Lizzie lives on in her two offspring, Rabbit and Alex, and her influence on the herd and our hearts will never be forgotten. Rest free, sweet girl.
