Stifle

Question
I would be a first time horse owner and am looking to adopt a 10 yr old mare from a very reputable horse rescue organization.  I was told that she has stifle and didn't consider that a problem because I wanted to adopt a companion horse to love and care for. She does not wear shoes and am told she is very difficult when trying to trim her back hooves. Apparently she cannot lift them very high without pain.Now I'm being told that she may be pregnant.  Will this aggravate her problem and will stifle require special care and medical needs in the future.She and I seem to be perfect for each other personality wise and I really would like to give her a wonderful life, but is this really a bad idea?  She's been with the rescue organization for 2 yrs. and no-one is interested in her due to stifle.  Please advise-Thanks so much

Answer
HELLO PATRICIA...THANKS FOR YOUR QUESTION...

I do understand how you feel and your relationship with her so far.
BE SURE this is what you want and that you are NOT just feeling "sorry" for her.

The term is "stifled" which means tramma or affliction of the stifle joint/the patella ligament.
In her earlier years, could very well be from a fight with another horse and she got the
"short end of the stick" as they say !! Either a blow/kick to that area or fell down trying to avoid the fight. A number of things are possible.

It won't get any better with time...arthritis is present and could get worse.
Your real problem is not letting her movement or lameness later in life bother you.
She could very easily carry a foal, but the added weight can always be a factor ??

She will sooner or later HAVE TO BE trimmed. Sedatives and pain killers with a veterinarian
will most likely HAVE to be used. You DON'T want anyone fighting with her or forcing her to balance and stand when it bothers her. Trying to "talk her out of it" won't work. She by nature,
will protect herself, no matter HOW MUCH she gets along with you. "Fight or Flight" that is
their "god given nature."

Extra expense is always a factor as she gets older...something to think about??

The Best to You !!
Joepaul Meyers,C.J.F.