The Colic Novice

"OK, that's it. He's yours."
And just like that, I was completely responsible for  September Winds, a beautiful, just-off-the-track racehorse. Still doubting my tacking skills, I worried. And worried a little more. Was I ready?

During our first year together, September colicked 13 times. The first time didn't really worry me--I was too naive to be very concerned. But as time went on and I learned about the potential dangers, I became increasingly frantic every time he colicked. What was I doing wrong? What could I do to stop it?

Fortunately, I was boarding him at an excellent thoroughbred facility, owned and staffed by knowledgeable and patient experts. Their expertise got me through that first year.

I moved September to my small farm in 2005, adding two other ex-racehorses to my herd. I've learned much about colic over the years, both from experience and research, and I hope to share my knowledge with other horse lovers.