George's Bone Chip Surgery

For the last several years, it has been my dream to attend the Retired Racehorse Project in Kentucky. Now, I've finally gotten the horse to take to the 2019 Makeover, a gelding by one of my favourite local stallions, Stephanotis.  My intended RRP mount goes by the name of George and is one of the sweetest, well minded 3 year olds. Unfortunately, we have recently found out that a pre-existing bone chip in his ankle poses more of a problem than we initially thought after seeking a second opinion and now, the chip should be removed sooner rather than later due to risk of causing inner joint problems in the event that it shifts. I do not want to risk the longevity of George's career or his chance at a comfortable life so have made the decision to have it removed. 

George is a stellar gelding with a wonderful disposition, I want him to have the best shot at any future career, whether we make it to the makeover or not and I want for him to live a comfortable, pain free life. I am seeking help in order to allow for George to get the surgery that he requires as soon as possible, we are planning to book his surgery for next week. 

Recently,  I have been hit with a bunch of unfortunate and expensive  vet bills after rescuing some horses from the auction when they were heading to slaughter, so am not in as great of a place to completely fund this surgery out of pocket with short notice after just paying over a thousand dollars worth of vet bills. On top of this, since the injury is pre-existing, insurance companies will not cover it. We are in the process of getting George insured in the event of future problems, but unfortunately this one cannot be covered by insurance.

I am not one to generally ask for help, especially for vet related expenses as I do believe that they come with owning horses.  Because of the recent bills that I have been slammed with vet wise, tuition and with family related expenses, I am seeking help for this particular surgery due to the expense of it. While this surgery is not emergent in the sense that George is comfortable for the time being, time is of the essence in order to avoid potential damage to the joint. I am a hard working, devoted owner who gives everything to my horses and want to continue to promote the Thoroughbred breed through George and the retired racehorse project. Over the last year of galloping George while he was still racing, I have developed a relationship with him and have grown to really love him. I believe that it would be an immense waste of potential to forego the surgery and risk his overall physical health and well being long term.

The current quote for the surgery and some of the aftercare, bandaging etc will be over $3,000. We will also be x-raying other joints in the event that there are any other chips needing removal to ensure that George is happy and comfortable coming out of surgery. The prognosis after surgery is very good and he could return to a career as a sporthorse with likely no limitations in as little as 3 months. 

Should you be interested in supporting George's surgery as well as our journey to The Retired Racehorse Project, please share and spread the word. I appreciate all of the support I have been given along the way in my riding career and appreciate anything you may be able to do to help us with dealing with this situation.