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Post surgery update on Badger

Oct 25, 2026

In July, Badger underwent a neurectomy (nerve blocking)—a surgery we hoped he would never need. Badger was abused as a baby horse and developed the worse case of navicular syndrome the vet has ever seen.  We rescued him 14 years ago and he has done very well with specialized farrier care, chiropractic treatments, x-rays, pain medication, supplements, and ongoing veterinary support. Now Badger’s condition has reached a heartbreaking point where these treatments are no longer working and surgery was his last option. This surgery was made possible by our kind-hearted supporters who have given Badger a second chance.

Our goal for Badger is simple. We want to ensure that his golden years are full of:

• Grazing peacefully
• Bringing hope and smiles to children  
• Enjoying the sunshine
• Living the rest of his life free from chronic pain

A few weeks after surgery, there was concern over Badger’s long toes (see above photo). There was something seriously wrong that a hoof trim could not help with. After consultation with Dr. Stelle, he was diagnosed with extended tendons on both his front feet. The vet explained that Badger had developed a coping mechanism of walking on his toes to help alleviate any pain from his navicular. Now with no feeling in his navicular bone, Badger was rolling back on his heels and causing his tendons to stretch. Our vet recommended metal horse shoes with extenders.

Badger is back on bed rest with lots of extra sawdust bedding to help reverse the injury to his tendons.

Badger’s post surgery care is funded by our Coffee Club members (monthly donors).

The decision to go ahead with this risky surgery was not taken lightly and was full of risks and complications. Now that we are on the other side of it, our dedicated Animal Care Volunteers are with Badger every step of the way.

Thank you to Dr. Kim Steele (Wise Equine), Carol Dymond (barefoot trimmer), and M Davis Farrier Services for believing in Badger. We all just want the best for this magnificent horse who never deserved his cruel treatment as a baby.

Here is the history of Badger’s lineage. We still have his halter which is engraved with Dusters San Badger.