Curly is still receiving weekly visits from the acupuncturist. After 4 visits, the poor boy appears to be in the same amount of pain as before. And both Dr. Norris and I are stumped as to what may be causing him so much pain. He has never had an animal not respond at this point, and the doctor has said he will discontinue treatment after one last visit. Curly, bless his heart, patiently stands through each treatment even when we can see that it is quite painful for him. Makes me love the big guy even more....and as I've already said before, it helps explain some of the bad behavior he has dished out over the past year.
Electrical currents have been added to the acupuncture treatments - Ouch!The next step is a trip to the vet. It is possible that the back pain is secondary to another problem - like arthritis in a joint somewhere. So we'll begin the process of testing for bunches of other things as soon as I have a penny or two in my pocket to pay for all of this. I'm crossing my fingers that we discover the cause quickly and easily.
E has been working with Monte on a consistent basis and things just keep getting better and better for them. At her 4-H Halloween ride she was able to ask for, and get, a counter-canter for the first time. Their costume, by the way was very cute. Monte was very patient with the whole mermaid tail thing. (I'll post a picture of them as soon as I remember to download from the camera!)
She joined Pony Club this week and will begin riding with that club very soon. I'll be curious to learn which she likes better in the long run - Pony Club or 4-H. For now, I'll be taking her to both (Tuesdays - 4-H, Sundays - PC).
