There is an extensive variety of books available that cover the veterinary aspects of horse care, ranging from good to excellent. As a horse owner, it’s essential to have a few reliable books on your shelf for reference. Two noteworthy books to consider include:
Hayes’ Veterinary Notes for Horse Owners
This comprehensive and detailed book goes beyond what an average horse owner might need, but it’s an invaluable resource to have on hand. It covers a wide range of topics and provides in-depth information that can be beneficial when dealing with more complex issues.
The TV Vet Horse Book
A more recent publication, The TV Vet Horse Book, is an excellent resource for horse owners of all levels. This well-written and beautifully illustrated book discusses numerous common ailments and cannot fail to be of great use. It’s an excellent resource for anyone looking to keep their horse happy and healthy.
Although these books cover a vast range of topics, we will briefly discuss a few common complaints that most horse owners will likely encounter at some point.
Laminitis in Children’s Ponies
Laminitis is a prevalent issue among children’s ponies, often caused by the pony becoming overweight due to rich summer grass consumption. Laminitis is an inflammation of the sensitive laminae within the feet that can lead to severe discomfort and potentially long-lasting damage.
Treatment and Prevention
To treat and prevent laminitis, it’s essential to reduce the pony’s intake of high-protein food, which often means strict calorie control or, in severe cases, near-starvation. Instead, provide the horse with bran mashes including Epsom salts. To mask the bitter taste of the salts, you can add a little black treacle diluted in hot water, making the bran mash more palatable.
Cooling the Feet
If possible, immerse the pony’s feet in a nearby stream to help soothe and cool the overheated feet, providing some relief for the horse.
Recovery Timeframe
If laminitis is detected and addressed early, the pony may be able to return to work within a week. However, in severe cases, the pony could develop a dropped sole or lose its ability to work entirely. It’s crucial to monitor your pony’s weight and diet to prevent this debilitating condition.
Thrush in Horse Hooves
Thrush is a common hoof ailment that can lead to lameness in horses if left untreated. Taking the time to care for your horse’s hooves daily can often prevent this condition from developing.
Causes and Symptoms
Thrush typically results from insufficient hoof maintenance, such as not picking out the feet regularly. The accumulation of dirt and moisture causes an unpleasant, foul-smelling black liquid to form between the frog and the sole of the hoof, creating painful spots.
Treatment and Prevention
To treat thrush, clean the horse’s hoof by washing out the affected area with an appropriate disinfectant. Afterward, apply Stockholm tar to the foot to promote healing and discourage further infection. Detecting and treating this issue in time can often prevent the horse from developing lameness.
Daily Hoof Care
The most effective way to prevent thrush is by adopting a daily routine of picking out your horse’s feet. This simple practice removes dirt, debris, and prevents the buildup of moisture, significantly reducing the risk of thrush and other hoof problems.
Managing Upset Stomach in Horses
An upset stomach is another common issue that horse owners might encounter. Loose droppings can be an indicator of a digestive problem, requiring dietary adjustments to help resolve the issue.
Dietary Changes for Improved Digestion
To help a horse with an upset stomach, reduce the amount of oats and green hay in its diet. Instead, feed the horse dry bran and brown hay, as these can help bind the stomach and improve digestion.
When to Consult a Veterinarian
If your horse’s condition does not improve after dietary adjustments, it is recommended to consult a veterinarian for a thorough examination. Proper diagnosis and treatment from a professional can ensure your horse’s long-term health and well-being.
Addressing Constipation in Stabled Horses
Constipation is a common issue in stabled horses which, if not properly addressed, might lead to a blockage or impaction. It’s important to adjust the horse’s diet and monitoring its health closely to alleviate this condition.
Dietary Adjustments
To alleviate constipation, try giving your horse bran mashes mixed with hot water. Oats can be included if your horse is not too fond of bran. Opt for the greener hay and dampen it before feeding your horse, as this can provide more moisture to aid his digestion.
Adding Linseed Tea and Oil
Additionally, adding linseed tea to bran mashes may help with constipation. If no noticeable improvement occurs, consider tossing two tablespoons of veterinary linseed oil (not to be confused with boiled linseed oil used in paints) into the bran used for preparing his mash. To mask the flavor of linseed oil and encourage your horse to eat, you can add a bit of treacle to the recipe.
Consult a Veterinarian
If there’s little improvement in your horse’s condition after these dietary changes, consider seeking a professional veterinarian’s help. Remember, an earlier intervention can prevent more severe health issues.
Importance of Regular De-worming for Young Livestock
De-worming is a crucial aspect of maintaining the health of all young livestock, including horses. Regularly consulting your veterinarian is the best way to ensure your animals receive the most effective parasite control.
Obtaining a Vet’s Advice
Your veterinarian’s advice should guide your de-worming protocol, as they have the experience and knowledge to prescribe the most effective measures catered to your animals’ specific needs.
De-worming Brood Mares
For brood mares, de-worming procedures can vary depending on the individual vet’s opinion, as theories differ. To reduce parasitic female worm’s egg production and lessen pasture contamination, one common practice is to administer a small dosage of worm powder for the initial 20 days each month.
Limitations of De-worming
Remember, while this helps manage the problem, it’s not a catch-all solution. De-worming reduces the parasitic burden but does not completely eradicate worms in mares. Continue regular veterinary check-ups to ensure the health of both the mare and her offspring.
Frequently Asked Questions about Veterinary Care for Horses
Q: How often should a horse get a dental check-up?
A: It’s recommended for horses to have a dental check-up at least once a year. This is because horses’ teeth continually grow and can develop sharp edges or other issues which could affect their ability to chew food properly and overall health.
Q: Is it necessary to vaccinate my horse?
A: Yes, vaccinations play a crucial role in protecting your horse from various diseases. Common vaccines for horses include tetanus, equine influenza, and equine herpesvirus among others. It’s best to discuss the most suitable vaccination plan for your horse with your vet.
Q: What is colic and how can it be prevented?
A: Colic refers to abdominal pain in horses, and it can be quite serious. Prevention primarily involves proper management of diet and exercise, regular deworming, and access to clean water. If colic symptoms are observed, immediate veterinary attention is necessary.
Q: How frequently does my horse need to be de-wormed?
A: The de-worming frequency depends on factors like your horse’s age, health condition, and the environment. As a general rule, most adult horses should be de-wormed every two to three months. It’s always best to consult with your vet for a tailored plan.
Q: What are the signs of a healthy horse?
A: A healthy horse typically has a shiny coat, clear and bright eyes, a steady appetite, and regular stool. Additionally, they should show normal behavior according to their individual personality, respond well to interactions, and exhibit consistent movement without signs of discomfort or pain. However, any changes in these parameters can indicate potential health issues, so it’s best to monitor your horse closely.
Q: Why is hoof care important for a horse?
A: Hoof care is crucial for a horse’s well-being. Their hooves need to be cleaned daily to prevent infections like thrush and checked regularly for abnormalities like cracks, bruising, or changes in shape. Regular farrier visits (generally every 6-8 weeks) are also important to keep the hooves trimmed and balanced and to check or fit horseshoes.
Q: How can I check my horse’s pulse or heart rate?
A: You can check your horse’s pulse by feeling the artery that runs under the jaw. Use two fingers, (not your thumb as it has its own pulse), and count the beats for 15 seconds, then multiply that by four to get the heart rate per minute. An average horse’s resting heart rate is between 28-44 beats per minute.
Q: What should a horse’s body temperature be?
A: A horse’s normal body temperature usually ranges from 99.0 to 101.0 degrees Fahrenheit (37.2 to 38.3 degrees Celsius). If the horse’s temperature is consistently outside this range, it’s a good idea to call the vet, as it could indicate an infection or illness.
Q: When should a foal get its vaccinations?
A: Foals are typically administered their first vaccines when they are about four to six months old. The timing can depend on various factors including the mother’s vaccination status and the disease risk in your area. It’s best to consult with your vet to determine the right schedule.
Q: Can horses suffer from stress?
A: Yes, horses can experience stress. Significant changes in their environment, poor diet, overworking, and health issues can all contribute to stress. Symptoms may include changes in behavior, poor performance, digestive problems, or physical signs like weight loss. If you suspect your horse is stressed, consult a vet to figure out the root cause and address it.
Q: What is laminitis and how can it be prevented?
A: Laminitis is a painful and potentially debilitating condition where the tissues binding the horse’s hoof wall to the inner pedal bone become inflamed. Preventing laminitis involves good dietary management to prevent obesity and control sugar intake, regular exercise, timely hoof care, and careful management of horses with disease conditions like Cushings. If you notice signs such as lameness, a digital pulse in the foot, or reluctance to move, contact your vet immediately.
Q: When should I call a vet for my horse?
A: While horses are generally strong animals, they can sometimes require emergency vet attention. It would be best to call your vet if you notice things like bleeding, lameness, changes in feeding or drinking habits, unusual droppings, signs of colic, difficulty breathing, or any changes that concern you.
Q: How can I keep my horse’s coat healthy?
A: A horse’s coat health is reflective of their overall health and diet. You can contribute to a healthy coat by maintaining a balanced diet rich in essential nutrients, regular grooming to distribute natural oils, and providing protection against harsh weather conditions.
Q: How can I maintain my horse’s weight?
A: Maintaining a healthy weight in a horse requires a balance of appropriate diet and exercise. Make sure your horse’s diet is well-balanced, high in fiber, and appropriate for their breed, age, and activity level. Regular exercise is also important for weight management. Your vet can provide the best guidance for maintaining your horse’s ideal weight.
Q: Does my horse need a shelter?
A: Yes, horses do require shelter to protect them from elements like extreme heat, cold, rain, or snow. This can be a stable, barn, or even a well-designed run-in shed in the pasture. It’s crucial that the space is clean, dry, well-ventilated, and allows the horse to move freely.
