Page 157 - The Veterinary Care of the Horse
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Difference in sound
With some subtle lameness, it is not always easy to see a change of gait, but this may be
VetBooks.ir heard when the horse is trotting on a hard surface. The lame limb is placed more gently on
the ground and thus more quietly than the sound limb.
Observation of the horse turning
This is an important part of the examination. Horses with localized foot pain will sometimes
flinch as the weight is taken unevenly on the affected area. Horses with hind limb pain often
find turning uncomfortable.
Turning the horse in a small circle gives the vet additional information. While this is
being done the vet will look at the horse’s ability to flex his head and neck laterally, bring his
shoulders forward and to cross one hind limb in front of the other (Figure 4.6).
Figure 4.6 The horse is observed turning in a small circle
Walking backwards
