Avoiding the development of windgalls There are three major ways to prevent your horse from developing windgalls. These are as follows: Ensure that your horse (particularly young or heavy horses) is not overworked and that any work is done on soft, even surfaces. Make sure that your horse is properly trimmed or shod. …
Diagnosis Diagnosing windgalls is typically not difficult for your vet. Windgall swellings occur directly above the fetlock on the inside and outside of the tendon sheath. Windgalls can affect either or both of a horse's front or hind legs. In some cases, all four limbs will be affected. You may notice heat in the area…
Colostrum is produced by the mare and is the first milk she produces when she gives birth. She only produces this milk for up to 24 hours after giving birth. The milk appears different from that which she will produce for the rest of her lactation period, in that it is yellow, thick, and sticky. As…
Q: How can I encourage my horse to drink? A: The simplest way to encourage your horse to drink is to ensure that he has clean, fresh water at all times. Frequently cleaning and refilling buckets is essential to keep water fresh and palatable. Other ways to up your horse's water intake include soaking hay, adding water…
Q: What is the best way to manage a puncture wound? A: If there is one thing you need to know about puncture wounds, it is that every single one requires veterinary attention. There is no exception. These wounds may look tiny and innocuous but they are one of the most dangerous injuries your horse can…
Q: How do you trot up a horse correctly? A: A veterinary inspection commonly involves leading a horse in a walk and a trot, so that the vet can check for any lameness issues. A trot up is a common part of the vetting for a horse; is required if your horse goes lame for any…
What is a capped hock, elbow or knee? And how are they caused? Check out this post to find out more.
Want to know more about ringworm? Like the fact that it isn’t actually caused by a worm but by a fungus? Then, check out this article on ringworm in our equine friends.
Q: How do I care for a wound? A: As soon as you see that your horse has a fresh wound or has opened an old wound you need to evaluate the following: Is the wound bleeding profusely? If so, you need to phone your vet immediately. Where is the wound? Is it near to…
Q: Why might my horse be rubbing his tail? A: There are multiple causes of tail rubbing, but the trick is to find out quickly what the cause is in your particular case so you break the itch/rub cycle before it becomes too established. Some causes of tail rubbing include: Sweet itch. Sweet itch is caused…
