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You don't say (or I missed it) how long ago the injury occurred. I can't
believe your vet didn't recommend raising the heels of the front feet to
take strain off the back tendons (or did I miss that too?). I've never had a bow, but have had several suspensory pulls, and think the treatment
is similar. Did the vet do an ultrasound to determine the severity of
the bow, or is he/she guessing it is a slight bow? Appearance does not
always indicate degree of severity. Keep the horse on the slender side,
so as to minimize weight carried (I know this may be difficult with a QH
esp. if you can't exercise her.) You are right not to be riding her if
you still see shortness in stride; these injuries can be stubborn and
recur if the horse isn't given enough rest. Enough is determined by
looking at the soft tissue on ultrasound. The thickness you observe may
be permanent or not. I would certainly make sure your farrier raises the
heels, shortens the toes, and rolls or rocks the toes to aid breakover &
take strain off the tendon. If you have to lose the whole ride season,
do it. It may mean the difference of whether or not you have a horse to
ride next year & years after. Good luck!
Patty
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