06/09/2026
A Strangles Case No Owner Ever Wants to Face
In December, Sue was diagnosed with strangles and developed one of the most severe complications imaginable. The infection caused significant inflammation and damage to multiple nerves, affecting his ability to breathe and swallow. His condition deteriorated to the point that a tracheostomy tube was required to keep his airway open.
Despite extensive veterinary intervention and multiple treatment modalities, little improvement was seen in the affected nerves or the epiglottis—the flap responsible for protecting the airway during swallowing. His prognosis was poor, and there was serious concern that he would require a tracheostomy for the rest of his life.
I was brought onto Sue’s case in early March to begin Equiscope therapy.
During the first five days, I focused on the Lung, Bladder, Conception Vessel, and Governing Vessel meridians, with the goal of reducing airway inflammation, addressing scar tissue within the respiratory system, and supporting nervous system healing. Higher frequencies were also incorporated to target nerve function, circulation, and scar tissue.
On Day 6, Sue was re-scoped by his veterinarian. The results showed significant and unexpected improvement. Encouraged by the progress, the veterinary team recommended continuing Equiscope therapy and scheduled another evaluation in 30 days.
Alongside Equiscope sessions, veterinarian implemented rehabilitation program that included:
• Honey application to stimulate tongue movement
• Hyoid mobilization exercises
• Variable feeding heights and presentations
• Feeding strategies to encourage prolonged chewing, tongue activation, and swallowing
• Daily tracheostomy plugging for 15 minutes to encourage breathing without assistance (a simple wine cork worked perfectly!)
During the second week, sessions expanded to include the Stomach and Small Intestine meridians to stimulate and reactivate muscles of the jaw and throat.
By week three, Sue was becoming frustrated with ongoing tracheostomy care and stall confinement. Suspecting possible ulcers, ulcer protocols were added, along with the Pericardium, Triple Heater, and Gallbladder meridians to support anxiety, stress, and behavioral changes.
Week four continued with rotations focused on throat health, healing, and ulcer support.
Then came a major turning point in week five—Sue decided he was done with the tracheostomy and somehow removed it himself. The opening healed almost completely within the same day, creating an unexpected "sink or swim" moment. He was immediately evaluated by his veterinarian and scoped again. The verdict: substantial improvement. The tracheostomy would not be replaced, and Sue would continue progressing on his own.
From that point forward, Equiscope sessions were reduced to once weekly.
Last Equiscope Session: May 8
Owner Updates:
🐴 May 12 – Turned out and running, playing comfortably
🐴 May 18 – First ride back under saddle
🐴 June 9 – Received a clean bill of health from his veterinarian and was cleared to return to training
Sue’s journey highlights the remarkable potential of Equiscope therapy as part of a comprehensive rehabilitation program. While his recovery required a dedicated team approach involving veterinary care, owner commitment, and targeted rehabilitation exercises, Equiscope played a key role in supporting nerve function, reducing inflammation, improving circulation, and promoting the body's natural healing processes throughout his recovery.
To witness a horse with such a guarded prognosis progress from tracheostomy dependence to receiving a clean bill of health and returning to training is exactly why I am passionate about this work. Cases like Sue demonstrate how Equiscope can be a valuable tool in supporting recovery, helping horses overcome significant challenges and return to doing what they love.
Thank you Jeremy & Carolyn for trusting me with Sue’s care.
