A stable patient
Groomsman safe and sound in his forever home
While most race meetings run without incident, there are occasions when a horse is injured or becomes unwell. Prompt access to specialist veterinary care and safe transport in a horse ambulance are lifesavers for these animals.
Four-year-old Thoroughbred gelding Groomsman sustained an injury while racing at Tauherenikau on 2 January and subsequently had a post-race examination for poor performance. The race-day vet diagnosed a suspected stress fracture of the cannon bone, which was confirmed on an X-ray of the right fore limb.
A decision was made to stabilise the horse's injury and safely transfer him in the horse ambulance to a suitable location for rehabilitation.
Groomsman was transported from Tauherenikau to trainer Josh Shaw's property—a 121-km road trip over the Remutakas and through Transmission Gully to Levin. As the fracture was stable and non-displaced, a large bandage was applied to immobilise the limb and prevent further damage during the journey.
Groomsman's care was entrusted to experienced operator Keith Vickers, who monitored the animal’s condition and behaviour via video link. A horse is often sedated to travel in the ambulance, as racehorses are used to travelling in a truck rather than alone in a float.
The horse ambulance has a hydraulic system that lowers it to the ground so an injured horse can enter at a level gradient, minimising further harm. The in-built adjustable crush is well-padded and designed to stabilise the animal and relieve pressure on the trachea of a sedated horse.
Groomsman's injury has stabilised after three months of rehab, a plan that included box rest and walking once sound.
Equine vet Dr Pip Hendron said that with this type of stress fracture, once rehab is followed, the horse may be able to race again or have a sports horse career. The stunning Tivaci gelding has been re-homed to an experienced, horse-loving family with Kalah Mckay.
Kalah said Remi is an easy, kind horse to have around. He will be in the paddock for 4-5 months to give the leg more time to heal before she starts to work with him.