Page 473 - The Veterinary Care of the Horse

combination of detomidine and butorphenol may be used.

• Intravenous fluid therapy to combat dehydration and shock and maintain the circulating
VetBooks.ir • blood volume.

Electrolytes and fluids given by stomach tube. If electrolytes are put into the drinking

water, a separate supply of fresh water should also be offered.
• Analgesic and anti-inflammatory drugs to relieve the pain and inflammation.

• A human muscle relaxant called methocarbamol may be prescribed.

Analgesics are usually only necessary for the first couple of days. Both analgesics and

tranquillizers have to be given with care, as their use in a severely dehydrated horse can
contribute to kidney damage.

Management in the recovery stage

STABLE MANAGEMENT

In the acute stage of the disease, the horse should be stabled to stop further damage occurring
to the muscles. It should be kept warm and dry in a well-ventilated stable that is free from

draughts. A thick, dry bed should be provided.

DIET

The diet should be restricted to good quality hay (at least 1.5% bodyweight dry matter) with

a broad-spectrum mineral and vitamin supplement. Fresh drinking water should be available.
In cold weather, taking the chill off the water will increase consumption.

TURNOUT

As soon as the horse appears to be comfortable and is not showing any signs of lameness or
stiffness, it may be led out in hand for a few minutes at a time or turned out for short periods
into a small paddock. The temperament of the horse must be taken into consideration as

persistent excitement and galloping around will exacerbate the condition and delay recovery.

RETURN TO WORK

Work should not recommence until the muscle enzymes have returned to normal which can

take up to 2 weeks or more. The reintroduction to work should be gradual and exercise
should be regular.