Page 147 - The Veterinary Care of the Horse

• signs of laminitis.

VetBooks.ir In other cases it may be reasonable to wait a day or two to see if the condition resolves before

seeking veterinary advice. In the meantime it is essential to:
• rest the horse

• control the horse’s exercise, i.e. confine it to a stable or small turnout area to prevent

further injury
• check very thoroughly for wounds and swellings on the legs

• search for flint or nail penetrations of the feet

• note any changes; if the lameness becomes worse or does not improve, call the vet.

Never ignore a slight lameness or swelling because the horse has a competition in the near

future. No occasion is worth the gamble of turning a minor problem into a more serious
injury.

THE VET’S VISIT

Preparation for the vet’s visit

In advance of the vet’s arrival:
• bring the horse in

• make sure the stable is clean

• have a headcollar and bridle ready

• pick out the hooves and clean the legs. Do not apply hoof oil
• think carefully about the history of the case and write it down.

Steps of the examination

The cause of a particular lameness is sometimes obvious to both the owner and the vet, but

on other occasions a considerable amount of diagnostic work is required to pinpoint the site
of pain. Indeed, some lameness may be impossible to diagnose precisely. The examination

procedure will vary with the individual situation. The vet will undertake some of the
following steps.

TAKING THE HISTORY