Run Forrest, Run! Equine veterinarians collaborate to help horse overcome difficult start to life

Looking at Forrest today at the age of 2, you would never guess he was born with severe orthopedic challenges! 

“Forrest’s legs are almost unbelievably straight,” said Kristi Dorsey, of Dillsburg, Pennsylvania. “Our veterinarian has checked him out a few times over the last few months, and they have been flabbergasted at his recovery. I taught him to lunge a few weeks ago, and it was a surreal moment. There may or may not have been some tears shed.” 

Forrest’s mother, Lacey Assets, an American Paint horse, had delivered several foals prior to Forrest. Unfortunately, Forrest’s delivery was more complicated. Rather than being positioned with his forefeet extended, both of Forrest’s knees were contracted, resulting in a dystocia – medical terminology for a prolonged, complicated birth.  

Forrest was delivered successfully by the veterinary team at Green Glen Equine Hospital, Glen Rock, Pennsylvania, but the pair was later referred to the Marion duPont Scott Equine Medical Center at Leesburg for evaluation and treatment. 

The Equine Medical Center is one of three animal healthcare facilities of the Virginia-Maryland College of Veterinary Medicine, which is based on the Virginia Tech campus in Blacksburg, Virginia.

After examination, it was discovered that Lacey had a small colon avulsion – a gastrointestinal injury – that could not be corrected with surgical or medical management. The only humane option for her was euthanasia. 

Sadly, Forrest was orphaned, but that was just the beginning of his issues and his journey to a full recovery. Diagnosed with bilateral knee (carpal) contracture that prevented him from being able to stand on his own, and elevated kidney values, he would need intensive 24/7 care and the full commitment of his owner.

Forrest’s kidney insufficiency was treated with IV fluids, antibiotics, gastroprotectants, and intensive supportive care. Splints were placed on Forrest’s front legs in an attempt to stretch the tendons, and pain relievers were given to keep him comfortable. 

Thankfully, he quickly learned to drink from a bucket, and with the help of his medication and careful management by Equine Medical Center staff, his kidney values began to improve. 

The Equine Medical Center’s medicine and surgery teams collaborated on Forrest’s case. Krista Estell, clinical associate professor of equine medicine, and Norris Adams, clinical associate professor of equine surgery, discussed Forrest’s orthopedic issues at length and, with Dorsey’s blessing, decided that Adams should perform bilateral tenotomy of the ulnaris lateralis and flexor carpi ulnaris. These muscles are located at the rear of the front limbs, and the procedure, once performed, would give Forrest the best chance of a normal life. This surgical intervention would release the tension on the back of Forrest’s knees, allowing his limbs to straighten, and would offer a better prognosis for future athletic performance!

After surgery, the colt showed steady progress with the aid of dorsal splints and REDBOOT® braces. Close attention was given to avoid pressure sores during this phase of his treatment.

Forrest returned home with his splints and braces firmly in place. Dorsey and her husband Clif, continued managing Forrest’s legs while Estell and Adams consulted from afar with the help of the veterinary team at Green Glen Equine Hospital.

“Forrest is thriving,” Dorsey said.  “At 2 years old, he has not needed one dose of pain medicine since the day we had weaned him off them, nor has he taken one unsound step. He truly is a miracle! The past year has been a year of incredible growth.”

Dorsey hopes to write a children’s book about Forrest and his treatment journey, while the faculty and staff at the Equine Medical Center eagerly look forward to watching his story continue to unfold over many healthy years to come.

“We are beyond grateful for all you did to give Forrest a fighting chance”, Dorsey said. “It was such an emotional roller coaster, but with your help and the grace of God, this guy stands as an incredible testament to overcoming adversity.”

Forrest stands as a powerful reminder of what is possible when expert veterinary care, collaboration between specialties, and unwavering dedication come together. 

Forrest Gump's legs at the age of 2. Photos courtesy of Kristi Dorsey