What is sepsis and how does it affect horses like Flair?

Sepsis is a potentially fatal reaction to an infection where the body's immune system attacks its own tissues. In Flair's case, it stemmed from an abdominal infection that spread, impacting her overall health and threatening her pregnancy.

How long was Flair at Rainbow Equine Hospital?

Flair received intensive treatment and round-the-clock care at Rainbow Equine Hospital for 10 days before being discharged.

Will Flair's foal be healthy after her sepsis?

Yes, vets confirmed a strong heartbeat in Flair's foal during her hospitalisation, and she is expected to give birth to a healthy foal next spring.

Home / Lifestyle / Miracle Pony Survives Sepsis, Two Lives Saved

Miracle Pony Survives Sepsis, Two Lives Saved

17 Jan

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Summary

A pregnant pony named Flair survived life-threatening sepsis.
Vets at Rainbow Equine Hospital provided round-the-clock care.
The pony's foal was regularly scanned and showed a strong heartbeat.

Miracle Pony Survives Sepsis, Two Lives Saved

A pregnant miniature Shetland pony named Flair has made a miraculous recovery after battling severe sepsis, a condition that threatened both her life and the life of her unborn foal. Initially rushed to Rainbow Equine Hospital with an abdominal infection that had spread to her eyes, causing temporary blindness, Flair's survival was uncertain.

Internal medicine specialist Lizzie Cullen described Flair's condition upon arrival as septic shock, stating that without immediate treatment, she likely would have died very soon. Intensive, round-the-clock care over ten days was instrumental in helping the pony turn a corner. Owner Di Johnston expressed immense relief upon learning Flair was well enough to eat again.

Following her discharge, Flair returned home to Leyburn. While the exact cause of her infection remains unknown, she was fortunate to avoid surgery, which could have jeopardised her foal. The baby foal's well-being was a primary concern, with regular scans confirming a strong heartbeat, raising hopes for a healthy arrival next spring.