Slew Update: Comfort, Care, and a Journey of Resilience

If you’ve spent any time around Texas Equine, you know that Slew holds a very special place in our hearts. This sweet Thoroughbred has been part of our barn family for years, and his journey over the last year has been nothing short of emotional, challenging, and ultimately, hopeful.

Where We Were

Last January, we shared a difficult blog about Slew’s health. At that time, there were real concerns that his quality of life might decline to the point where we would have to consider letting him take a peaceful walk across the rainbow bridge. He was facing multiple issues—ringbone, a bowed tendon, and significant discomfort that limited his mobility. It was a heartbreaking season filled with uncertainty, careful decisions, and a lot of prayer.

There was even a moment last summer/fall when we had to ask ourselves if Slew might need to move to another facility better equipped for rehabilitation, as Texas Equine is not a rehab-focused program. But Slew wasn’t ready to give up—and neither were we.

Where We Are Now

Today, we are incredibly thankful to share that Slew is comfortable.

Shelby has been providing consistent, thoughtful care, including:

• Red light therapy on his back and leg

• Cold hosing his injured leg

• Athletic taping for both his back and leg

• Back On Track therapy boots and blankets

• Light lunging to gently re-strengthen his body

While Slew does have arthritis in his back, he is now also managing nerve damage in his back and scar tissue in his front right leg from his previous injury. These are not small challenges, and Slew certainly isn’t “brand new.” But the difference in how he feels is meaningful.

Right now, Slew is comfortable in the pasture, relaxed, and content. He is able to be ridden quietly at a walk, which is a huge milestone compared to where he was a year ago.

What This Means for Slew

Slew will always be a senior horse with special needs, and his role has shifted permanently away from traditional riding lessons. But that has never diminished his value here. He thrives on attention, gentle interaction, and being part of daily barn life—and our riders absolutely adore him.

Most importantly, he feels better. He enjoys his days palling around with Ginger, his herd, and the steady stream of love he receives from students, staff, and especially his owner, Tammi.

Gratitude & Love

We are deeply thankful for the progress Slew has made. His journey is a testament to patience, consistency, and the power of compassionate care. While Texas Equine may not be a rehabilitation facility, we stepped up, learned, adjusted, and committed ourselves fully to doing right by him—and Slew met us halfway with his incredible resilience.

Thank you to everyone who has checked in, asked about him, and kept Slew in your thoughts. We wanted to share this update to celebrate how far he’s come and to reassure our community that Slew is spending his days comfortable, loved, and right where he belongs.