Page 211 - The Veterinary Care of the Horse

severe pain.

VetBooks.ir Causes

•
Penetration of the sole or white line by a sharp object such as a flint or a nail.
• Infection of a deep bruise.

• Accidental pricking of the sensitive tissues by the farrier.

Clinical signs

These include some or all of the following.

• Lameness. This may be slight to start with but can quickly progress and become severe.
The horse may point the limb and avoid taking any weight on the affected part of the

foot. For example, if the infection is near the heel, the horse will walk on its toe.
Sometimes the horse will refuse to bear any weight on the affected limb (Figure 6.14).

• The horse is often found in some distress. When the pain is really severe, the horse may

sweat, tremble and have fast, shallow respirations.
• Increased heat in the foot.

• An abnormally strong digital pulse on the affected limb.

• Swelling of the lower limb.
• Sensitivity to pressure from hoof testers.

• Loss of appetite.