Laddie Hanover is a 10 year old American Standardbred Racing Harness Horse. He hit his tendon in a race which resulted in a small cut in his front leg. Medical attention was administered to the cut and some stall rest perscribed until it healed. The cut ended up getting infected and would not heal. The infection ended up getting worse and found its way into the bone on his leg. A small in-stall surgery was then tried. Continual stall rest, antibiotics and constant care was given Laddie by his owner Kim Heard during this time.
Laddie continued to get worse. The infection would come close to healing, but then slide back again. Kim diligently attended his horse. Then unexpectedly Kim suffered a heart attack and passed away. Laddie was still not healed and thoughts of euthanasia were considered. Kims Brother, Sisters, and Mother contacted the vet, Enda Currid, and another more extensive surgery was done in his clinic to scrape the infection from the bone. This had to work or Laddie would have to be put down.
Laddie was donated to Phoenix Rising in hopes of a new life and that with the constant love and care at the facility that his leg would heal. It was a success and Laddie has recovered 100 %.
Laddie was adopted by Kerri Lebeau in Jan 2009.
About Laddie, From Kerri
I began volunteering at Phoenix Rising several months ago to fulfill my lifelong love for horses. When I met Laddie, I
have to say, I was intimidated by his "BOSSY" behavior! Well, I found out its just a facade; he is just a big "dog" in reality.
I have tried to learn about Laddie's past life with his previous owners. What I have found out is that Kim took very good care of him, especially when he was injured. When Kim passed I am sure Laddie truly missed him since they spent so much time together. It must of been difficult on Laddie not to see him everyday. I think about that and understand why some days he is who he is. I sympathize with his loss.
I started to work with Laddie, with the help of Heather, and began to see that he loves attention and he is a HAM.
I noticed that each time I spent time with him one on one, his behavior improved. A calmer Laddie came through. Although, he does have his bad days, I do too. So, I respect that and dont push him.
Some (no names needed) say I should be more persistent, but I am still learning his personality, and in due time I will.
Laddie has come into my life at a good time. I believe we were meant for each other. I believe I have been drawn to him for spiritual reasons. He has filled that need in me and I believe I am filling his need for love. Although we have just been drawn together, I believe we will have a wonderful future together.
I want to say thank you to Heather and Sue for introducing me to Laddie, and showing me he has potential. He is a great horse!
Sue, you are a wonderful person and an angel to all of the rescue horses - they are lucky to have you as their MOM!
Phoenix Rising Equine Rescue
1 Pinewoods Road
North Stonington, CT 06359
860-794-4269
