verified by the vet

Well, I was feeling pretty low, thinking maybe I had over-reacted and could've continued the ride while Butch's burn healed.  "Pretty low" is an understatement.

More like: "You wuss, you backyard-pampered-animal city girl, all those people disrupted thier lives and went way outta thier way to haul you around, teach you how to handle your ill-mannered mule and pack right, then you go and wimp out at the first little mule owwie... you coulda been to Abilene by now... he's not even lame, riding woulda been good for him... what a pathetic wimper of an ending... look at him moping around, even Butch is depressed, he wanted to keep going too... you were such a nanny!..."


Then I talked to my vet about how long it might be before Butch is road-ready again. He asked how long ago the burn had happened. When I told him I was concerned cuz it was about 12 days, his words were: "That's all?!?  I hate to tell you this, but it'll take at least 4 weeks, maybe longer before he's healed up enough. It's deep. It's in a bad spot. And you'll need to be treating it daily."

I was not happy to hear the burn was severe, but have to admit, was relieved to be vindicated in my judgement. I had not overreacted. Bringing him home - since I could - was the right thing to do.

As to my judgement about whether or not to continue with Butch despite his mental and behavior issues, on the next ride or drive, I have decided not to write about that here as it is too private, difficult and personal a decision.  When it comes time for the next ride I'll start a new blog and there will tell the tale.

Will post here when Butch is healed up, though - with pics - also, will be adding a few pics to old posts, so if you are interested please check back occasionally!

All the best to everyone!