Finally seem to know what was making Sigurd ill

[cutemangurdi1]

It looks like everything is/was allergy related. He has a severe form of Seasonal RAO. He is allergic to tree pollens, grass- although we hope it is the pollen in grass at certain times of the year, and a weed found in hedgerows. The allergy severly affected him and led to bronchial issues- no coughing or discharge, we found out how bad by scoping (although that may be because I watch him like a hawk and caught it early)skin allergies and it affected his liver.

A combination of ventapulmin, steroid injection and now daily inhalers, with a strict exercise regime has brought it under control and it should mean he can potentially work at least 8mths of the year (the strain of working may be too much for him to work when the pollens are out so he may always need Feb to June off work. Flamazine cream mixed with steroids has helped the skin issue to, along with a good liver tonic the vet got from the USA.

After a very controlled exercise in hand programme I hope to be able to get on him this weekend

Its been a worrying time and I cant believe how much I now know about allergic responses in horses- my vet is very much into research ;D

[Debbie]

My goodness, what a complicated answer. Kudos to your vet for digging in there and really getting to the root of the trouble

Interesting that the breathing ended up being from the allergies as well. My friend was struggling with bronchitis/cold that would not end. Her husband drug her to the docs, they did ct scans and found hers wasn't a cold/bronchitis at all, but allergies too.

Crosses fingers you'll be able to get on the lad I hope you both enjoy it!

[valerie n scout]

good lord but now youve found some answers hopefully he can be on the road to a new lease of life

[olivia]

WOW Jacqui, Sigs is a lucky boy to have such a dedicated owner to stick with it and work out what the issues are.

Glad he's back in work

[harveydales]

Thank goodness you've got to the bottom of it all. Sigurd is lucky to have such a dedicated and caring owner.

[harleydales]

I had a dog who was allergic to dandelion and alder tree pollen, it was a nightmare all summer.

At least you've got to the bottom of it all and can go from here with a good plan.

[sck1]

Jacqui, I'm so glad you have some answers and that something can be done. He is a lucky lad to have you supporting and helping him.