A Missouri Fox Trotter is a “gaited” horse breed appreciated for its stamina, smooth movement, and weight-carrying abilities. They are the perfect horse for beginners, including children. They are exceptionally good-natured, friendly horses and love their people, so they’re always in demand. Their gentle nature makes them great additions to any family.
They are mid-sized, muscular horses, standing 5’ to 6’ tall, weighing 900 to 1200lbs, and are used mainly for trail riding and ranch work. They have been popular for their smooth ride and calm, easy-going demeanor, since the early 1800’s.
Mr. Fox is an 11-year old, completely white, Missouri Fox Trotter gelding. He was brought to the rescue as an owner surrender. “Owner Surrenders”, of dogs, cats and horses, are attempts by an owner to give their animal another chance at life after they decide that they can no longer afford the time or money to care for it properly. It is certainly a preferred alternative to abandoning an animal on the street or taking it to a municipal animal control facility to be euthanized, or to an equine sale barn to be sold to a slaughter plant in Mexico.
Mr. Fox arrived at the rescue with squamous cell carcinoma (cancer) in his left eye. He had been unresponsive to standard treatment for that kind of cancer by his owner, and then by the rescuer’s local vet, including cryotherapy (freezing the tissue). Determined to find an effective treatment for this still young, beautiful, and very adoptable horse, the rescuer contacted the Veterinary Medical Teaching Hospital at Texas A&M University. After reviewing photos from the rescuer, and being assured of payment by Animals Abused & Abandoned, the A&M clinic agreed to an appointment for Mr. Fox.
Upon examination, the decision was made to perform a “surgical excision” of the tumor, followed by “cryotherapy” treatment and topical medications for pain. Mr. Fox tolerated the surgery and follow-up treatment well and is recovering nicely back at the rescue facility.
The total cost of his medical treatment at the A&M clinic was $879.60. Additional expenses for travel and food during his recovery have been funded by Animals Abused & Abandoned. If you wish to contribute to the cost of his treatment and continuing care, please make your kind and generous donation to Animals Abused & Abandoned here.
His prognosis for a full recovery and continuing good health is now very positive. In fact, the rescuer, who describes him as a complete “teddy bear” has two good prospects who are interested in providing Mr. Fox with a new forever home when his wound is fully healed.