What Changes A Year Can Bring!

Exactly a year ago today he captured my heart and I took him home.  The last few weeks I've been thinking about all we've done, where we started and where we are now.  I have so many emotions.  Looking back on the photos my heart breaks for how bad he looked on day one. Still I'm not able to process animal neglect and hurt. Feeling incredibly thankful and in awe of what a lot of love and trust can do.  Over flowing with joy at how he looks and how he is now... happy, healthy, trusting, loving and so super sweet.

The photo above was taken last week after giving him a bath. He looks completely different today than a year ago, here's a look back.

Day one.
His weight is low, spine and ribs are out, his feet aren't good and he's anxious. Everything seems to be a new experiences for him as he was in isolation for many years. He's a bit foggy but those eyes of his are soft and gentle, I'm in love. I'm excited and I'm hopeful I can make a difference. He is so sweet.

After a few weeks in I'm finding out that as the fog begins to lift for him he is testing me. Challenging me if you will to see who will be the leader in this new relationship of ours. We are making progress with his food aggression and his bad manners are improving. He is trusting me more with everyday that passes.

Now a few months in, his weight is coming back slowly, he's shedding out nicely and his hooves continue to grow and improve. You can see here that his back is lifting and looking much better.

He likes to follow me where ever I go and is learning about respecting spaces, specifically mine. 

We are all smiles now and his life is so good.  He is no longer food aggressive, his feet are healed, he's sound, his weight is great, he is respectful most days and our bond is strong. I can go out on trail alone or with friends.  He is spoiled and I love it that way. I figure he's earned it after surviving so much. 

Thank you God for blessing me with this sweet guy, he is such a gift. I am so proud of us and how far we've come over the last year and am excited to see what progress and fun this next year will bring us.