A few days old, Benny the foal has already made a significant impact on the stable, according to his owners. Born with wry nose, a rare deformity causing a twist in the nose and jaw, Benny is persevering despite challenges. Morgan Sheppard, a standardbred horse trainer at Living the Dream Stables in Brackley, P.E.I., mentioned that Benny breathes primarily through one nostril currently, but his spirit and resilience have been remarkable.
While Benny’s condition is uncommon, some horses in the Maritimes have successfully overcome wry nose to excel in racing, as per Sheppard. The goal for Benny is to progress towards racing, with Sheppard emphasizing a step-by-step approach and remaining optimistic about his future.
Upon Benny’s birth, the primary concern was his ability to nurse, crucial for boosting his immune system. Despite initial low immunoglobulin levels, Benny quickly adapted and nursed proficiently. Recent plasma tests show improved immunoglobulin levels, indicating his strong will to thrive.
Shannon Kelley, a large animal veterinarian involved in Benny’s delivery, noted that the long-term outcome for horses with wry nose varies based on severity and interventions. With proper care and the ability to breathe, horses with this condition can lead healthy lives. The current plan for Benny involves allowing him to grow and strengthen before potential surgical procedures to address his jaw alignment.
In the future, a surgical intervention could enhance Benny’s quality of life by improving jaw alignment and normalizing eating habits. This procedure entails breaking Benny’s upper jaw, utilizing a bone graft from his rib as an implant in his nose to enhance breathing and dental function. Post-surgery, Benny would focus on growth, strength, and discovering his capabilities.
Although the exact path forward for Benny remains uncertain, Sheppard hopes his journey sheds light on the positive aspects of harness racing and the dedication involved in caring for these animals. She stresses the significance of Benny’s resilience and the teamwork dedicated to providing him with the best possible care.