Page 89 - The Veterinary Care of the Horse

Many horses experience chronic pain that goes unrecognized because it does not make them

obviously lame. Examples include back pain or bilateral forelimb or hind limb pain. This will
VetBooks.ir affect their willingness and ability to work. They may become withdrawn and grumpy. Some
start to resent grooming and are less cooperative than usual for the farrier.

If your horse or pony appears to be off colour, it is a good idea to check its temperature

and pulse rate. It is helpful if you know what is normal for your animal.

BASIC HEALTH CHECKS FOR YOUR HORSE

How to take a horse’s temperature

• Unless the horse or pony is familiar with the procedure, it should be held by an assistant.

• If using a digital thermometer, switch it on. If you have a mercury thermometer, shake it
vigorously until the mercury is below the start of the temperature scale.

• Lubricate the bulb with petroleum jelly, e.g. Vaseline, or saliva.

• Run your hand over the horse’s quarters and lift the tail.
• Stand close to the horse and to one side to avoid being kicked (Figure 3.1). Gently slide

the thermometer into the anus until about two thirds of it is inside the rectum.

• Tilt the thermometer so the end of it lies against the rectal wall. This ensures it is
measuring the horse’s temperature and not that of the droppings.

• Wait a full minute or until the digital thermometer beeps.

• Withdraw the thermometer and wipe it clean.
• Read the temperature.

• Switch a digital thermometer off or shake down the mercury of a glass thermometer.

• Clean the thermometer with cold water and disinfectant before returning it to its case.

• Store the thermometer in a cool place.