Spook – Adopted!

Spook is either 6 or 7 years old; he came to us with his buddy Midnight and their previous owners were uncertain which horse was which age. We figure, 6 or 7 is close enough. Spook is a purebred Canadian gelding, though is unfortunately not-registered. He, along with Midnight, will need specialized care throughout his life. Spook had a great start to his job as a trail/pack horse in Northern Alberta. He was coming along quite well with his ground manners and all three gaits (i.e., walk/trot/canter or, if you prefer, walk/jog/lope). Unfortunately he got into some type of toxic plant (e.g., Mare's Tail/Horse Tail, Locoweed) and consumed enough to cause permanent neurological damage. Although we often believe horses will avoid toxic plants, in some cases they ingest it, perhaps accidently, and can become addicted. Due to the damage, Spook has become unsafe to ride as, without any warning, he may buck and spin or even fall to the ground . . . this can happen in mid-lope across an open field. As Spook cannot do his job, the owners made the tough decision to sell him. When the Society approached the owners, they decided that we were his best chance at a good and long life and "gifted" him and Midnight to us. At the time, the owners realized that both these horses would likely end up at auction where their fate was uncertain. Many of us know, however, that as young and non-riding horses they'd probably be purchased by a local kill buyer. We not only appreciated their honesty but also their willingness to gift the horses to us. Spook doesn't seem to have as many visible symptoms of the neurological damage than Midnight. Spook moves nice but his feet hinder him a bit at the moment as he is need of a trim. He is shy but friendly and sweet. However, if you move a little fast, Spook seems to struggle to process what you are doing so gets a bit scared; he doesn't panic nor is he unsafe. He simply moves his head and gets a wee bit tense; he definitely seems a bit more unsure of himself. Knowing that he, and his buddy, have special needs Midnight and Spook must remain together. They seem to take care of each other and are quite bonded. For now, Midnight and Spook will remain in the care of the Society.