We sold JC to a family in SoCal and part of the contract was for him to be gelded. As I only had JC in mind to geld this month, I contacted a fellow breeder and asked if she wanted to bring a boy over too. She did. So, a quick call to UCDavis’ Field Service with the vital info and we were scheduled for March 19th. As that was a day a farrier appointment was already schedule I knew it would be a busy one.
Gelding a mini is relatively quick - my son video taped it before (on our website – http://www.wescofarms.com/GeldingVideo.html), the full length video from being knocked out to finished was about 9 minutes. The pre-surgery check, placing a catheter, etc. of course adds to that time, but all in all it normally is a fairly quick event.
Then you get the guys that just don’t want to cooperate! JC was his usual calm self – the model patient for everything. His half brother, Prince, on the other hand decide this was not what he was ready for! He was already wound up from the trailer ride here, and spending a night at the boarding ranch where Jenn keeps a few minis, so coming here and all the commotion – well can we say little kid all hyped up! Prince wasn’t up for any part of this, and had to be sedated (IM) to attempt to get a catheter in. That was a whole ‘nother problem as his veins were either collapsing, hiding or very small – but basically being impossible to get the catheter in. Fortunately we had some very patient vets and senior vet studets, led by Stephanie Bell, DVM., that finally got the catheter in and then it was the usual fairly quick procedure!!!
My daughter the old pro, was right there in attendance, while Jenn and I chatted – Jenn’s a bit needle phobic, and inserting an oversized hypodermic into a testicle was a bit much for her -not to mention the blood and cutting too!
Thankfully all went well and we now have two more – soon to be – happy geldings! JC will be headed to San Juan Capistrano in mid-April and Prince (who is for sale) hopefully will find a great home looking for a driving gelding – he has the ability!
