Lil’ Joe

Lil’ Joe, born in 1999, is a goofy and playful Quarter Horse named after one of the characters on the show Bonanza.  Lil’ Joe was found in a backyard, surrounded by construction machines, and lived with his herd mate who passed away during a thunderstorm. On his rescue day in 2020, Lil’ Joe was found wearing a heavy blanket, sweating, and having difficulty breathing, which was a terrible combination. Spirit’s Promise was made aware of Lil’ Joe’s condition at a Christmas event and, when shown a picture, Marisa was reminded of her first horse, Spirit, who was also buckskin. We were told Lil’ Joe was in good enough condition to still be ridden, but upon first sight, we knew that was an inhumane suggestion. When Lil’ Joe first arrived at Spirit’s Promise, it was determined that all of the dust inhalation and poor living conditions resulted in Recurrent Airway Obstruction, a common respiratory disease also known as Heaves. This is similar to asthma in humans.   At the time, Lil’ Joe was regularly experiencing a chronic cough, nasal discharge, and difficulty breathing.  He was first placed on a regiment of Heave Ho, an herbal supplement to aid in inflammation of the airway, but quickly learned that was not enough. Lil’ Joe was placed on a daily prescription of Prednistab, a steroid, as well as a backup prescription of Albuterol accompanying a nebulizer. With daily medical treatments and close attention to his diet, Lil’ Joe is able to live the best life possible as the loving, free-spirited soul that he is. You’ll know he’s fond of you when he rests his head on your chest. 

In addition to his meals consisting of Hay, Grains, and Alfalfa/Timothy Pellets, Lil’ Joe also receives a dewormer and daily doses of Mirra Coat, a supplement to keep his skin strong and protected, Prednistab, a corticosteroid, Heave Ho, an antihistamine for breathing difficulties, and Vermont Pro, a prebiotic/probiotic.