A Real Gem Finds a New Setting

  • Bay Arabian Gelding
  • Entry Date – 9/22/08 at 23 years of age
  • Type of rescue – Surrendered
  • Reason – Spared from euthanasia
  • Special needs – None

In September 2008, when lameness made it impossible for Topaz to continue as a school horse, a riding instructor contacted Linda Davis pleading for the horse’s life. The Foundation agreed to take over his care so that he would not be euthanized and Topaz arrived the next week with heart-bar shoes and a slight limp. He was trimmed following standard barefoot protocols, at which time it was discovered that one front hoof was almost one inch longer than the other and was causing his lameness, which was misdiagnosis as an arthritic condition.

In his twenties, Topaz was again active, healthy, and sound. He trained with Ruby Arciniega, a horse care volunteer who showed him in some of the dressage shows at the Sanctuary.