PASSION -- WE NEED A HORSE SLING

This photo of Passion was taken on July 21, 2010. As the photo shows, HRRRF could really use a sling for horses like Passion. We have had a number of older horses who have had difficulty getting up when they lay down, or, worse, fall down. We have had to use a variety of make-shift slings to suit these problems. Our slings may work, but they often take quite a bit of time to set up, causing more stress to the downed horse. Because the fit is not terribly reliable, they are not always comfortable for the horse. A sling costs around $2,000. We invite all of our readers to spread the word to see if we can find an affordable sling or to help us raise money to purchase one.


Passion is an older mare that really worked hard her life as a school horse. She arrived about three years ago with some lameness issues, but she has had other problems to contend with. She foundered in one leg, her fetlock dropped, and she suffered through a bad case of strangles.

Just before this photo, her good leg was being stressed as it bore the weight of the bad leg. We had the vet and farrier out to work on her. Because she was in pain holding one leg up for the farrier to trim, we rigged up a make-shift sling. If anyone needs a sling, we do! We are great at improvising though. Look at our contraption! It worked. We are hoping a brace can be made to support her leg. She has overcome many obstacles. She can do it again. She is a very groggy in this photo because she was sedated by the vet. She was actually enjoying the rest!

Passion is doing well at this time, but there may be a "next time" for her. We'd love to be prepared with a proper sling to help give her appropriate support.

posted August 31, 2010