On April 19 2014, Akeem Foldager was examined by a veterinarian as requested by the Danish Equestrian Federation (DRF).
The examination was requested due to a number of pictures presented to the Danish Equestrian Federation (DRF). According to DRF, the pictures gave rise to further examination, and Helgstrand Dressage has cooperated with DRF and the veterinarian in order to clarify the episode.
Akeem Foldager has now been examined by the veterinarian Peter M. Busk together with a representative from the Danish Equestrian Federation.
Peter M. Busk concludes in his report that the skin is normal everywhere on the horse without any scars, wounds or crusts. However, the veterinarian found some pain reaction in the right side of the jaw, where the curb bit applies pressure.
"The mucosa in the area did not show any crust or other abnormalities," reads the report from the veterinarian Peter M. Busk.
He recommends that the horse does not compete or is trained before the pain reaction in the right side of the jaw is reduced or gone. A recommendation Andreas Helgstrand obviously intends to follow.
"Akeem will not be trained until he is 100% ready, and at the same time, we will go through his equipment and the use of it. Among other things, we have communicated with the manufacturer of the bit in order to find one that is more suitable for Akeem," says Andreas Helgstrand.
Helgstrand Dressage fully understands the debate caused by the pictures.
"It is totally unacceptable that Akeem has a blue tongue. This should of course never happen, and we have concluded that the curb chain had been fitted too tight. It was, therefore, adjusted immediately," explains Andreas Helgstrand.
"It is obvious that these pictures create a debate and we are completely focused on making the necessary changes - including adjusting the bridle," says Andreas Helgstrand.
Akeem Foldager was shortly after the episode examined by a veterinarian, however, Andreas Helgstrand welcomes the examination requested by the Danish Equestrian Federation.
"We support any initiative to secure the well-being of the horse and we will, of course, follow the recommendations from the veterinarian. Moreover, we will follow up with additional examinations of Akeem," explains Andreas Helgstrand.
"Anyone questioning Akeem's state of health is welcome in our stable," says Andreas Helgstrand.
See the veterinarian report on DRF's homepage: www.rideforbund.dk
Photo © Astrid Appels
Related Link
Andreas Helgstrand Under Fire After Publication of Training Photos