Demelza
Demelza was rescued with several other horses in April 2025, all at high risk of entering the slaughter pipeline.
Demelza’s teeth showed that she was at least 30 years old, likely into her thirties.
Veterinary exam showed that she had a body condition score (BCS) of 2.5 out of 9 with symmetrical topline atrophy and poor body fat content. Both of her knees had visually deformed cranial carpi, but the left carpus was the most prominently affected (showing a 2 inch bulge on the craniolateral aspect).
Demelza appeared sound at a walk, but the left thoracic limb tested 3/5 lameness when trotting in a straight line. The range of motion (ROM) of the joint was diminished.
Xrays were taken to see the extent of the damage to Demelza’s joints. Views showed extensive osteoarthritic remodeling of all carpal joints in her left leg, including the proximal joint having the most bony changes. This joint’s damage meant constant pain for Demelza without options available for relief whether through farrier care, supplements or other medications.
After further evaluation, monitoring and quality of life assessment, Demelza was humanely euthanized as no options were available to alleviate chronic lameness with nonstop pain issues.
It’s shameful that a former owner did not offer her compassionate care as she clearly led a long life and had been used up and dumped at an auction.
More About Demelza
- In Assessment
- Chestnut
- Mare
- 1995
- Mule
- Colorado