Tides are Turning

Lazypants

So the radio silence over the past week has a reason, unfortunately. Tuesday night I had Riesling out in the round pen ready to lunge. He went down to roll, and stayed laying down. I thought it was strange because he mostly "sits up" (as the photo above) when he doesn't want to get up. But he was flat against the ground. His head was cocked up slightly and I approached him carefully. Next thing I know his head fell the side, eyes rolled back into his head, mouth open with tongue hanging out, and legs stiff and jerking around. 

I always have these fear driven dreams where I am kidnapped or attacked. And without a doubt I always freeze up. I can't scream, I can't move. Its a completely helpless feeling. I had that same reaction in the round pen that evening. 

My thoughts ranged from, What the hell is going on?? to Oh my god. Is he dying? Am I watching my horse die? Is this a heart attack or a seizure. It is definitely a seizure. What if he doesn't come out of it? Am I going to have to watch my horse die? WHY CAN'T I MOVE OR SPEAK (or breathe).

Luckily that evening the accupressurist and other barn mates were out. They saw me standing, statue still, frozen on my horse. And Riesling, laying on the ground. 

It took them a few moments to figure out what was going on, and then without fail they jumped into the arena. Someone put their hands on my shoulders and pulled be back. Another lady fell to Riesling's side and started to comfort him. A few agonizing moments later he came to. He let out a loud snort, scurried up, and ran around the arena, confused. 

I wiped away tears as I dialed the vets number. I was basically still frozen. I couldn't really react. At that time, my vet just wanted him to be monitored. I spent a few hours hand grazing him and watching him in his stall. He seemed completely normal. 

Finally at home I collapsed on the couch and let out all my screams and tears.

..............................................

At this time, Riesling is still doing good. I'll go through the still ongoing after effects throughout the week. But, the tides have definitely turned.