The Rescue and Recovery of Chanel

Chanel in April 2011

Chanel's Rescue

One of our most shocking cases at the rescue, was Chanel, who came in with a body score of 1 (Backbone, ribs, tail head, pelvis, bones of withers and shoulders are prominent and no fat can be felt).  In addition, Chanel had severe diarrhea and we really thought we might loose her.  Foxy, (in a similar condition) who she came in with, sadly died a few hours after arrival.  It was touch and go for many weeks.  She needed a special diet, plus dietary supplements and veterinary care.  Her weight gain was very gradual.  In some cases, horses gain weight very quickly after arriving, but with an older horse like Chanel, who had some underlying medical issues, it can be a long and slow process.  People will often comment "why is this one not gaining weight" on some of our old girls.  The fact is, they are getting the best possible food and care we can offer, but weight gain just doesn't happen all that quickly in some horses.  In addition, when they are this weak and thin, we have to feed them very small quantities of food at a time at the beginning or it can make them extremely ill.  This also adds to the time it takes for them to recover. 

Chanel's Recovery

Chanel in April 2012

However, slowly and surely she did improve, and 9 year old Harmonie started to form a bond with Chanel and help in her care and recovery.  Harmonie groomed, fed, and loved her, and now that hard work has paid off.  Chanel still has some weight to gain, but has improved dramatically, so much so, that Harmonie has been able to start riding her.  This helps Chanel build a little muscle tone and also exercise her joints.  Harmonie had lost her confidence a few months ago after a couple of quirky riding experiences (as happens from time to time!), but Chanel has helped her gain her confidence back. 

Harmonie says about 27 year old Palomino quarter horse Chanel, "She has helped me get my confidence back and enjoy riding again; and being ridden and loved, has given Chanel a reason to live".  A big thank you goes out to Kaylie of for helping Harmonie with some lessons, and also who made Chanel's awesome blinging tack (from Tack by Kaylie)! 

See the video below of Harmonie riding Chanel.  We'd say that's another success story for Stable Haven and the horse angels!