As in my previous entry, the prognosis was good, but the vet wouldn't committ to how long he might be out of commission.

I started looking at horses to buy just so I could get through the spring recieving cattle and doctoring yearlings. Before I go on, I must thank Todd McCaughey, Tom Winsor and Benjie Lemon for their generous offers of lending horses. I looked at a couple of horses and let me tell you, nothing makes you miss your top mount like trying others.

At any rate, I spent an evening or two trying some horses, fully expecting Badges (who we're now calling Bandages) to be out at least 6 months. I was feeling pretty sorry for myself.

Then, yesterday I read Bonnie Davis's blog, Hoofprints and Campsmoke. Suddenly, I didn't feel so bad. If you haven't got the chance to give it a read, check it out.

Then, later in the day, the vet came for a follow-up exam with Ol' Bandages. She was amazed at his recovery. I don't want to get ahead of myself, because there's always the possibility of setbacks, but starting Monday I can hand walk him. After a week of that, I can begin longeing him and one month from today I can start riding him.

Dr. Collela (who I'd also like to thank for her outstanding diagnosis and treatment) thought he might be back to full working capacity in two months. Amazing. 

He's got some body swelling and stiffness, but we're hopeful that exercise (and maybe chiropractic and acupuncture) can take care of that.

So we'll see, I'll definitely keep this blog updated on his progress and, beginning next week, I'll get back to the rodeo blog. I'm headed to San Antone for the short round tomorrow.