Q. If I suspect that my horse has a hoof abscess, what first-aid protocol should I follow while waiting for the veterinarian to arrive?A. Usually, horses with hoof abscesses are severely lame, meaning lame at a walk (grade 4...
If you suspect that laminitis (or founder, as it is known in layman’s terms) is to blame for your horse’s sudden lameness, call your veterinarian immediately. Then, follow this first-aid protocol while waiting for the vet’s arrival. As you...
Growing up in Northwest Indiana, where lake effect snow is a way of life, one of the things that worried me most about winter was my horse. Whenever the weatherman predicted a snowstorm approaching, I fretted over whether he...
It’s only a matter of weeks before it hits: fly season. In warmer regions, the annoying invasion is already happening. To counteract the assault, horse owners take up arms with sprays, lotions, traps, baits…and wasps.
Yes, wasps, but not...
With fall comes cold weather that can lead to higher incidence of impaction colic. The most common reasons for this serious health problem are lack of quality forage and not enough water in a horse’s diet. Too much indigestible...
Summertime brings out ticks in many regions of the country, and with them the threat of disease for you and your horse.
To prevent ticks from hopping aboard either of you, use insect repellents designed to fight the little nasties....
Knowing the difference between a cut vein and a severed artery can possibly save a horse’s life: If your horse cuts a vein, the wound will bleed gradually. However, if the wound is pulsing blood, an artery may have...
If your horse has white plaque on the inside surface of his ears, don’t get too worried about it. Varying from white or non-pigmented, slightly raised to distinct “bunch of grape-like” lesions, this ear plaque is a type of...
Before choosing a farrier, make sure he or she has the professional knowledge to do the job. Check references, investigate education/training and ask about professional association membership.In addition to professional knowledge and skill, your relationship with your farrier is...
Riding in the snow can present shoeing challenges. What shoes, if any, you choose for your horse is a decision made with your farrier. But if you’re looking at options, consider these tips from Dallas Morgan, a Certified Journeyman...
