I absolutely love thoroughbreds, and my 3-year-old OTTB gelding Ultra Lucky is a beautiful example of the breed both physically and mentally. I love the feeling and freedom of being one with such a powerful animal.
I adopted Lucky in the spring after he suffered a bad sesamoid bone fracture. Seeing X-rays from the day of his accident, my vet was optimistic that Lucky would heal well, and I hoped he’d eventually be capable of light riding. He’s such a nice horse and so young!
Six weeks after the injury, however, when I picked up Lucky, he was very underweight. His owner had drastically reduced his diet, and Lucky wasn’t healing well. My vet was surprised and disappointed and cautioned me that Lucky may not heal at all. My heart broke.
I determined to give Lucky a chance anyway and brought him home. The thought of eventually having to put him down was constantly in the back of my mind, though.
There was little improvement or reason for hope when Lucky arrived. He had a low appetite, no energy, and just seemed like he didn't feel well. I suspected he had ulcers too. He wasn't cleaning up his hay or his pellets, and I was concerned and frustrated. I was trying to help Lucky but couldn’t give what his body needed because he wouldn’t eat!
Then I started Lucky on Daily Gold. To my relief, within days he started cleaning up his feed and gaining weight. Then his attitude became happier—he was so friendly! He’d put his head against my chest and let me hug, kiss and pet him.
His energy level now, four months later, is through the roof! He’s eager to eat. And while not ready to ride yet, Lucky has grown nearly two inches in four months and his leg is healing well. He’s able to go out and play, and his lameness is greatly improved at the trot and not noticeable at all at the walk.
Thanks to Daily Gold, my hope and outlook for Lucky is that he’ll be able to participate in low-level dressage and live a long, happy and pain-free life.
—Stacy Martin
