I am writing to update
you on my horse Jasper's progress. It has been almost a year and
a half since Jasper was diagnosed with Uveitis. I searched the
web and found your site and ordered my first mask. This
morning when I went on line to order another I was thrilled to
see the new web site! So much more information and news! I have
earmarked it as a favorite.
After weeks of topical
ointments and pain relievers I was frustrated that each week the
vet came there was no improvement and Jasper even developed a
corneal ulcer to boot. I put the mask on faithfully each day,
first only days it was sunny and/or windy, and then everyday
removing it at night. I have a sandy paddock area and he rolls
daily and this keeps his eyes as clean as possible.
My old farrier talked to
me about how some people don't react to some meds either and
suggested I hot pack his eye daily and keep it as clean as
possible. He also told me to gently massage the tear drop area to
keep the ducts clear. Old wives tails I thought but he had been
around a long time...........I stopped the ointments for the most
part which he hated anyway. He was beginning to get head shy from
all the aggravation. He seemed to love the hot packs and I did it
twice a day. I also "massaged" the area to promote clearing of
the duct. He wore his mask faithfully (except for the few times
he got it off rolling)
A month after the meds
stopped, my vet came to tell me that his eye, although mostly
blind by now, was in a sort of remission. The weeping had
stopped, the eye was not near as red, and he seemed perkier. I
have him checked every two months and so far the other eye has
been ok. Once in while the "bad" eye gets a drip and I am never
sure if it is from Uveitis or a piece of dirt. I take no chances
and wash it and put a non steroid ointment in it.
I think the combination
of the Guardian Mask and the things I do for him, are making the
difference. Although I know from reading that the other eye is in
great risk of contracting Uveitis, I am hopeful that I can
prevent it. I just wanted to let you know how grateful I am and
that I know you had a hand in his recovery. I am sending you a
picture of his eye that, although blind, is obviously much
healthier than before the mask. Thank you.
Jill O'Conner & Jasper
Update 11-26-05
I just wanted to
let you know how Jasper is doing. I had ordered a new mask
this fall after realizing that the old was ragged. I also
was concerned that it was too tight around his throat latch
area. After discussing this with you over the phone I
decided to buy the extra large horse mask. Although Jasper
is a Quarterhorse, he has a large head and deep jaw.
I am thrilled with
the fit of this mask! There is much more room to secure the
mask. Since we have started getting snow again, I am pleased
to have this for those sunny days where the glare of the sun
even bothers my eyes. I know if I don't put it on, I come
home to Jasper having a redder eye.
My vet says since
the one eye is blind from the uveitis that he does not know
when to blink and so the light will bother even more. Not to
mention everyday dust and irritants that are in the air. I
am so happy that I have found this wonderful mask to help
him. I hope that everyone who has a horse with any eye
problems tries your mask. It really does work.
Thanks again!
Jill O'Connor and
Jasper
Thank you so much for
sharing your update Jill, your love and dedication is a wonderful
example for all. We are so pleased to see Jasper's eye
doing so well!
Guardian Mask