The Remuda | Fall 2023 Edition
33
| Dr. Kieffer and Dixie Wheat |
I received an early morning call in May...Dixie Wheat had
foaled and the foal "needed help." My worst fears were
realized. This beautiful big boned chestnut colt was not
nursing and looked septic. All the hopes for "one more
runner" rested on getting this foal healthy. It was a journey
full of daily ups and downs. It took a team of dedicated
veterinarians, technicians, veterinary students and support
staff. We all pulled together with one goal...save this foal
AND his potential to be a racehorse. It could have gone
either way at several points along the way. The high points
were septicemia, pneumonia, and two septic joints. He
stayed in the hospital two weeks, then went home for
further care. He responded well and is doing great at four
months of age!
There is so much more to this story than a foal that
miraculously beat the odds and healed well. The bonds
that formed while dreaming about everyone road tripping
to Churchill Downs and debating the merits of the perfect
tomato sandwich have been priceless! Countless prayers
lifted, worried looks exchanged, and heartfelt hugs given...
and if you want to continue following this fairy tale story,
watch for the three-year-old Thoroughbred colt named Gig
Em when he runs in the Triple Crown races in 2026. He will
be followed by an amazing 96-year-old owner who raises
the very best tomatoes and red potatoes and the veterinary
team who loves them!
This is one of the many unexplainable reasons for why I am
thankful that I chose to become an equine veterinarian.
This is my Why...
| Gig Eg in the Hospital |
| Going home from the
Hospital |
