Southern Cross Equine Vet

21/09/2024

It must be love 💕🐴
I never mind being woken up in the middle of the night when the outcome is as beautiful as last night’s. This gorgeous, friendly girl is BIG I’m guessing at least 11 hands. Her lovely owners were really wise to keep me informed in the week leading up to the birth and to know I was at hand if needed. Mother and baby are both doing superbly. Well done to everyone involved. It was a great team effort. There are many reasons why I love my job but it doesn’t get much better than this.

17/09/2024

Eyes are the windows to the soul…
Horses have the largest eyes of any land mammal, and eye injuries can greatly affect their quality of life and training. Eye exams are important, especially for performance horses. A healthy eye is clear and comfortably open. If you notice discharge, cloudiness, or squinting, contact your vet without delay.

Common Eye Conditions:
Corneal ulcers - are often caused by injuries to the eye from grass seeds, branches or rubbing. They can be shallow or deep and require fluorescein stain to help determine their extent. They can become quite severe and threaten the eye if left untreated.

Equine Recurrent Uveitis (ERU) - is an autoimmune condition causing recurring inflammation, often triggered by an eye injury. Some breeds are more prone to it. The eye may appear painful and blue due to inflammation. Treatment may help prevent future episodes.

Tumours - on or near the eye can impair vision. Tumours, like sarcoids, may grow near the eye and obstruct vision, requiring veterinary intervention.

Eye lid trauma -quick treatment for eyelid lacerations minimises scarring.

What to Do for a Sore Eye:
If your horse has an eye issue, contact your vet. Avoid using creams or drops without advice. Clean the area with clean water and use a fly veil to reduce irritation until the vet arrives.

Contact Southern Cross Equine Vet today to book an eye exam. 0413834370

26/08/2024

In black and white here’s why a pre-purchase exam is good value for money

Buying a horse is an exciting time. Getting it right is even more exciting while getting it wrong can lead to heartache. Owning a horse is a long-term commitment, a pre-purchase report gives you important information to help you make an informed decision about whether the horse’s health, conformation, and soundness will work for you. You’ll gain knowledge about pre-existing issues that would prevent the horse or pony from being able to do what you hope to achieve. Of course, once you have this knowledge you may still decide to take the horse but you’ll be doing so with your eyes wide open.

The exam follows the Australian Veterinary Association’s guidelines involving assessing the horse’s general condition, evaluating the heart and lungs, examining the eyes, ears, and teeth. The vet will palpate the joints, tendons, and ligaments of the horse’s legs, looking for evidence of a past or current injury. The hooves are also examined. The horse’s conformation is looked at for issues that could signal problems down the track. Lumps, bumps, growths, and scars are assessed. A basic neurological exam is performed, and the horse’s back and muscles are also checked. At Southern Cross Equine Vet we like, where possible, to look at the horse under saddle in addition to how it behaves on the ground. Our vets are experienced riders themselves, and this experience offers important insights.

Of course, some people include X-rays and other diagnostic tests to help them to make the best decision they can.

When you weigh up all the costs of horse ownership, the knowledge you gain from a thorough pre-purchase exam represents good value for money. Whether the horse you are buying is a million dollars or whether it’s being gifted to you a pre-purchase exam could just be the best money you ever spend when owning a horse.

Call 0413834370 to organise a time for your next prepurchase examination.

19/08/2024

Black Caviar leaves us with a sad and timely reminder about Laminitis 😢

Also known as founder, Laminitis, is a painful inflammation of the laminae, the soft tissues connecting the hoof wall to the coffin bone (pedal bone) in a horse's foot. This inflammation can lead to instability and, in severe cases, separation or rotation of the pedal bone, causing crippling pain. Once a horse experiences laminitis, it becomes more susceptible to future episodes, making prevention crucial since it can only be managed, not cured.

Symptoms
* Acute (initial) symptoms - Horses may be reluctant to move, adopt a "sawhorse" stance to relieve pressure from affected forelimbs, lie down, and have warm hoof walls. Pain is evident when pressure is applied, especially to the toe area, and digital pulses are strong and rapid.
* Chronic symptoms : Chronic laminitis shows structural changes such as laminitic rings on the hooves, dished hoof walls, and bulging soles. Affected horses may exhibit restricted movement and a characteristic "laminitic stance."

Causes
* Common causes include overfeeding, especially fat ponies in spring after rain, grain overconsumption, retained placenta, septicemia, obesity, and trauma from excessive work on hard ground or improper hoof care.

Risk group
* Fat ponies and horses with prior laminitis episodes are at higher risk, particularly in the spring when overfeeding often occurs.

Prevention and treatment
* Preventative measures focus on proper feeding management and maintaining a healthy weight. In affected horses, treatment involves pain management, reducing inflammation, and corrective hoof care to prevent further damage.

Call Southern Cross Equine Vet today to discuss a dietary or treatment plan. 041383437

13/08/2024

As I drive around there are signs that spring is around the corner. The other day I spotted the dreaded bright yellow, Firew**d. Firew**d (Senecio madagascariensis) is a toxic plant commonly found along roadsides and in paddocks. It contains pyrrolizidine alkaloids, which cause irreversible liver damage in horses and ruminants. Horses are particularly susceptible, with young or hungry animals more likely to consume it. Ingestion typically leads to poisoning over time, and contact with the plant can cause skin irritation. The Department of Primary Industries (DPI) offers advice on pasture management to control firew**d. It's important to remove the plant wherever it’s encountered to help prevent its spread and to keep your horses safe. If you’re worried your horse may have ingested Firew**d or other toxic w**ds you can call Southern Cross Equine Vet 0413834370 7 days.

07/08/2024

An inside look at x-rays 🩻
Being an equine vet requires a lot of kit. One of my favourite pieces of equipment is our field x-ray.
X-rays are an important part of a lameness work-up. They are used to detect disease relating to bone. Common things that vets use x-rays to look for are issues relating to the balance of the horse’s feet, arthritis, laminitis and fractures. At Southern Cross Equine Vet we have a top quality field x-ray machine. We just need power and a dry spot. Our digital system allows the x-rays to be emailed to you, to your farrier or to a referring vet. Here are two x-rays I took recently of the same hoof can you see anything on the first x-ray? What about the second one? This is the importance of taking orthogonal views.

23/07/2024

😳 😳 😳 😳 😳 😳 😳 😳 😳 😳 😳
This may be embarrassing but horse owners we need to talk…

Horse ownership comes with various responsibilities, and one of the less glamorous but essential tasks is sheath cleaning. The sheath is a tube of skin that protects a horse’s p***s and regular cleaning is crucial to prevent infections, discomfort, and the accumulation of sm**ma—a mix of dead skin cells, sweat, and other excretions. Although it might be embarrassing to discuss, understanding the correct cleaning process is vital. Here’s a straightforward guide on how to safely and effectively clean your horse's sheath.

The frequency of sheath cleaning varies depending on the horse, but a general rule is to check and potentially clean it every 6 months. Some signs that your horse’s sheath may need cleaning include:
- Swelling in the sheath area
- Discharge or a foul odor
- The horse showing signs of discomfort or irritation

What you need:
- Warm Water: Helps loosen sm**ma and makes the cleaning process more comfortable.
- Latex Gloves
- Lubricant

What to do

1. Make sure your horse is calm and secure. This might mean having another person assist you by holding the horse.

2. Examine the Area:Gently feel around to ensure there aren’t any abnormalities such as lumps or sores.

3. Clean the Sheath: Using warm water gently clean inside the sheath. Soften the sm**ma before gently removing it. It may be helpful to use a soft cloth or sponge.

4. Rinse Thoroughly and Dry

Aftercare

After cleaning, watch for signs of irritation or unusual behaviour.

If you are uncomfortable or if your horse is particularly resistant, it's wise to contact a vet.

Phone Southern Cross Equine Vet 0413834370 should you require more information.

16/07/2024

Meet Yellow when he had his accident and again at three weeks later.
Not surprisingly many of the wounds that horses suffer are to their faces. Fences are a common culprit. The important thing to remember is if a wound needs to be sutured (stitched) prompt action, within 6 hours, makes all the difference. If a wound is left it will dry out, become contaminated and the chance of primary closure is greatly reduced. Call a vet immediately if your horse suffers a large deep tear and/or there is obvious bleeding. Until the vet arrives run cold clean water over the wound. This helps to clean the wound, constrict blood vessels and minimise swelling.
Southern Cross Equine Vet is here to help 24/7 Call 0413834370

09/07/2024

After the rain cometh the hoof abscess,
A challenge we face, a hoof in distress.
Inspect the hoof, seek black spots near the band,
For drainage, our skilled eye and hand.
Clean and prepare
Pick the hoof clean, no dirt or debris spare,
Trim the sole to access the area with care.
Soak with Epsom’s aids
Warm water, Epsom salt – a soothing cascade,
Drainage, if needed
If abscess persists, a vet’s skill is heeded,
Paring the sole, the vet drains with precision,
Attempt not yourself, avoid poor decisions.
Poulticing to heal
After soak or drain, poultice we seal,
With Epsom salt, iodine, or sugardine blend,
Wrapped with care, to contamination, an end.
Managing the pain
Consult the vet, for relief, they explain,
With anti-inflammatory meds, the pain we tame.
Monitor and mend
Watch for signs of healing, lameness to end,
Continue soaking, poulticing until whole,
Gradual exercise, back to the stroll.
Preventative care
Routine trimming, cleaning, keep the hoof fair,
Following this guide, hoof abscess we tame,
Our horse back to health, soundness reclaim.
Consult your vet, for their wisdom shines bright,
Ensuring our horses step with delight. 🌈

08/03/2024

It’s great to be at Moss Vale Show today. Lots of beautifully presented horses competing. So, much work goes into it. I love watching the show jumping. I got interviewed by ABC radio which was fun - come on down and enjoy the show.

04/02/2024

As a kid I had so much fun at Pony Club. The highlights for me included a trip to Gisborne NZ, riding at the Easter Show, learning to jump and of course the great friends I made. Here's me on Gully when I was 12. He is still with me and going strong today (if a little less shiny).

One way of me giving a little back to pony club is a range of talks I can come and give to your members.

Anything from

🐴What You Need to Know About Worming
🐴Hands-on Horse First Aid
🐴Dealing with Emergencies
🐴Fat Ponies
🐴 So, you want to be a Vet?

If you belong to a pony club in the Southern Highlands, the Illawarra or Southern Tablelands or if you belong to another horse club that might be interested in hearing one of my talks please get in touch. I promise to come bearing horsey treats
🥕 🥕🥕 🥕🥕 🥕🥕 🥕🥕 🥕🥕 🥕🥕 🥕🥕 🥕🥕 🥕

0413834370 www.southerncrossequinevet.com.au

30/01/2024

Robertson Show is coming up so get your rosettes ready. Can’t wait. Glad to be supporting such a fantastic event.

At The Robertson Show, we prioritise the health and wellbeing of the animals we welcome on our grounds. In moments of need, having a compassionate and skilled vet by your side is invaluable. We're delighted to welcome Southern Cross Equine Vet as a sponsor in the Horse category this year, ensuring expert care and support for our cherished equine companions.🐎

21/12/2023

At Southern Cross Equine Vet, we're keen,
To wish you a Christmas, merry and green.
While you enjoy your festive cheer,
We'll be on call for horses dear.

In paddocks wide, under starry nights,
We'll ensure all hooves are merry and light.
So raise a glass, to horses and friends,
Southern Cross Equine Vet's care never ends!

Please know I’m on call for all emergencies over the Christmas break. Phone 0413834370

A mobile veterinary practice for horses and other animals based in Moss Vale.

03/10/2023

Warning cuteness overload!

This gorgeous little donkey foal was born last night. We checked him this morning to make sure he was hitting all his milestones. He is absolutely kicking goals.

It’s really important to check both the foal and mum after foaling.

She’s doing such a good job.

One of the happiest calls I get to go to.

21/09/2023

GASTRIC SCOPING DAY

A gorgeous day in the Highlands today for a gastric scoping day. John Dalton from Randlab Pty Ltd, provided a gastroscope. Dr George from Southern Cross Equine provided sedation. Of the 7 horses scoped 2 were found to have ulcers. Fortunately there is good treatment available and we should see some great results in just a few weeks.

Symptoms of gastric ulcers include:

▪️inappetance or fussiness when eating
▪️preference of hay over grain
▪️dull coat and ill thriftiness
▪️behaviour issues (general grumpiness)
▪️poor performance

Call Southern Cross Equine Vet today to discuss any concerns 0413834370

A mobile veterinary practice for horses and other animals based in Moss Vale.

17/03/2023

A beautiful day for Moss Vale Show.
Southern Cross Equine Vet is proud to be a sponsor. Have a great weekend.

Please please remember in this hot weather to keep your animals well hydrated, get their tack off as soon as you can and allow them shade whenever possible. Good luck to all those competing.

13/12/2022

Merry Christmas to all my beautiful clients and to all your gorgeous horses.
Please keep safe over the break but know that I’m on call for any emergencies from 24 December and that I will be back in full swing from January 3.
Phone 0413834370

29/11/2022

Suturing wounds closed can make a huge difference to healing times but it’s critical we see them quickly.

It’s really important to keep the wound clean and protected while the vet is on the way. Dirt and debris is the enemy of wound closure.

Sometimes we have to manage open wounds, that’s just the nature of some accidents but it’s so much better to get even partial closure of the wound.

Pain relief and sedation can allow us vets to do a thorough job of cleaning the wound which will make a big difference early on in the healing process.

Don’t put off treating wounds. A stitch in time saves nine.

Here are some satisfying before and after pictures if you’re interested.

31/08/2022

🐴 Guessing Game 🐴
Can anyone guess what this is?
Bonus points if you can match it to an Australian book title.

31/08/2022

🦋🐝🐞🐌 Spring has sprung 🦋🐝🐞🐌

I couldn’t think of a nicer start to spring than with the arrival of this gorgeous miniature donkey in Exeter yesterday. Mother, baby and owners are all doing a beautiful job!
Happy Spring!
www.southerncrossequinevet.com.au

15/06/2022

🥶❄️⛄️ Winter warning 🥶❄️⛄️
It is essential for horses to always have access to water. With these freezing mornings be sure to check your horses’ water hasn’t frozen over. I found these suggestions from the UK some of which may be helpful but at the very least I encourage you to always check the water. A horse’s gut cannot operate properly without sufficient water.

30/04/2022

I’m so lucky to have the best clients. Appreciation like this just makes my day. Every time I get a thank you or a kind word it cheers me up massively.

World Veterinary Day 2022

🐴🐶🐮🐔🐱🐷🦓🐑🐪🦙🐓🦆

Appreciation post!.

If you have animals, at some stage they are going to need a vet. I've certainly had my fair share of animals needing support from a veterinarian.

🩺My wonderful equine vet could not have been more supportive , compassionate and professional in his care for my horses over the last couple of years since we've been in the Southern Highlands.

😭He's probably seen more tears from me than my family has, and I've probably taught him a few new SWEARY words when given his findings.

So today is an appreciation post for Southern Cross Equine Vet - Dr. George thank you for everything past and future. For the blood, sweat and tears and the countless advice sessions when I hit every dead end for treatment with Beau, Tilly and Asta.

I really really really hope I don't have anymore WTF IS THAT? cases for you (and for my sanity!) Because I'm pretty much all out of "f" bombs for now 💥

TO OUR VETS - thank you for all that you do 💖

Tag your vet for

15/01/2022

Everything is green and blooming in The Highlands at the moment including Flatw**d also known as Hawksw**d or Hypochaeris radicata. It looks like a dandelion and it’s everywhere!

Watch out for it because horses will eat it whether they are hungry or not. It is dangerous and it is associated with a neurological condition called Pasture Associated Stringhalt.

Stringhalt causes an abnormal gait and a sudden upward movement of, typically, the hind limbs. Some horses show only mild flexion of the hock at the walk, while others more severely affected will jerk their foot toward the abdomen. When ingested, the toxins target the long myelinated nerves in the hind limbs. Horses can sometimes recover within a few days from stringhalt, but for others recovery time can be prolonged 18 months or more.

Pulling and spraying are the best remedies for an infestation of this dangerous w**d.

They are frost-tolerant and competitive across a wide range of soil types, preferring cool climates, like ours, with an annual rainfall above 500 mm.

Plenty of reasons to rid your pasture of this not so cute little buttercup.

A mobile equine vet practice caring for horses in Sydney, Camden, the Illawarra, Southern Highlands and Goulburn. Medical care for horses. We come to you.

07/01/2022

COVID SAFETY CONCERNS

Dear clients,

To keep Southern Cross Equine Vet running during this time of rapidly rising Covid-19 infections, to ensure the best possible care for your horses, and—most importantly—to keep us humans healthy please adhere to the following:

•wear a face mask during the consultation;
•limit the number of people attending the visit;
•wherever possible maintain social distancing.

- If you have been exposed to Covid-19, have been a close contact, or you are feeling even slightly unwell please let us know and either postpone your appointment or have someone else meet the vet to hold your horse.

Thank you for your understanding.

A mobile equine vet practice caring for horses in Sydney, Camden, the Illawarra, Southern Highlands and Goulburn. Medical care for horses. We come to you.

23/12/2021

Here’s my own Miss Tina reminding us all to take to take time to smell, or in her case, to eat, the roses this festive season. To all my wonderful clients may you have a Merry Christmas. Tell your horses to say safe but please know I’m on call throughout Christmas should you need me 0413834370

20/11/2021

💕 🐴 Good news story🐴 💕

No-one minds being up all night when this is the result. An adorable filly was bred by one of my wonderful clients Sarah Spence. First time Mum, Ella, is is doing a great job and little Epona is, I’m sure you’ll agree, just perfect.

I love a good news story.

Call Southern Cross Equine Vet 0413834370 7 days

A mobile equine vet practice caring for horses in Sydney, Camden, the Illawarra, Southern Highlands and Goulburn. Medical care for horses. We come to you.

08/10/2021

Please be advised of a Hendra case near Newcastle. Make no mistake this is a deadly virus. This case is the furthest south that a positive case has been confirmed. Horses need to be vaccinated there is no other reliable preventative or treatment measures in horses. After their initial vaccinations yearly boosters are essential to keep your horse fully protected. If you’ve got any questions about Hendra virus and vaccination please don’t hesitate to call Southern Cross Equine Vet on 0413834370

The virus is detected in a seven-year-old unvaccinated horse near Newcastle, prompting officials to lock down the property and issue warnings to anyone with access to horses.

26/08/2021

Happy International Dogs’ Day!
Where would be without our (other) four legged friends? I’m so lucky to have had lots of lovely dogs in my life. Please post a pic of your dog in the comments. George Davidson McLeod

02/08/2021

Congratulations to our brilliant eventers! They’ve done us proud.

28/07/2021

This wound was big enough for me to fit my hand in when it first happened! The equine body is amazing sometimes!