Story: Locarno Divine Dream Road to Recovery
I was referred to Dawn Jones and Animal Physical Rehab when my beautiful warmblood fell and had a stress fracture to his pelvis. Dawn’s work with him at that time not only focused on the treatment needed to help him recover from this devastating injury, but also on keeping the rest of his muscle structure strong through the long period of rest while the bone fused.
If it hadn’t been for Dawn’s calm confidence and unwavering support, I might have lost hope that he could mend. Her work with him knew no bounds: We identified an amazing yard for him for his rehab (Peta’s place) and when he was strong enough to move there, Dawn spent a Sunday to go there to treat him and hand over to Peta and the resident physio (Shannon) to ensure there would be continuity in his treatment.
Over the following 6 years we have had to deal with all the challenges and changes in his body associated with arthritis, cushings, a poll injury and kissing spine. With each new issue, Dawn has adjusted her approach – she creatively finds new ways to balance and strengthen him, working inclusively with other professionals as needed, and she never gives up. Her treatment sessions with him are also so much more than just a session because she works with me to make sure I can continue with the type of work he needs, whether that’s walking him in straight lines or doing exercises or stretches.
The most beautiful thing to see is how my special horse is when he is being treated by Dawn. He has complete trust in her, despite the pain in his body, and he just gives himself over to her so that she can help him. Dawn is one of the remarkable people that I have met through horses. When I think of the quote from Kahlil Gibran, “Work is love made beautiful”, Dawn’s work and her talent is visible in my beautiful horse. Without her and the wonderful team of people who support her, my horse’s health and my life would be very different.
Thank you!
Caroline Brown / Locarno Divine Dream