Horizon Equine Veterinary Clinic

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Horizon Equine Veterinary Clinic

The veterinary team at Horizon Equine Veterinary Clinic is exclusively focused on the health and performance of horses.

Horizon Equine is your partner in comprehensive equine care, offering the full spectrum of progressive veterinary services that cater to every aspect of your horse’s health and performance. Our commitment extends to being available when and where your horse needs help. We provide in-clinic, on-farm and emergency services around the clock, 365 days a year. Whether a stable of horses, a sanctuary fo

r minis and donkeys, or a single horse companion in a pasture, we understand that equine health knows no schedule. We bring an unwavering commitment to horses, owners, trainers and stable managers. We stand ready to assist when your horse needs us most.

06/24/2024

Another happy ending from a vet and farrier collaboration .....

Gideon's foot was caught last year tearing part of his coronary band. Coronary band injuries can be very serious. Any defect in the tissue can result in permanent hoof wall damage that may result in lameness.

Gideon's human acted swiftly. He was seen immediately by Horizon Equine veterinarian Dr. Jane Westendorf. The quick response enabled Dr. Jane to save the torn section of Gideon's coronary band.

For the many months that followed the initial injury, Dr. Jane and Gideon's farrier worked hand-in-hand to ensure proper growth of the new hoof wall. They diligently dremeled the old hoof growth and switched shoeing packages as needed to maintain proper hoof capsule stability.

This week, Dr. Jane grabbed a picture demonstrating the progress of the grown-out foot.

Horizon Equine salutes Gideon's mom who was very patient with recovery. She used the time on stall rest to teach Gideon all kinds of tricks, including shooting hoops with his own rubber basketball!

Gideon has returned to his old self and recently competed at the Delta Riders Show.
The Horizon Equine team extends huge congratulations on such achievement.

06/21/2024

Respiratory Disease: Diagnostics & Treatment

Equine respiratory diseases can be challenging to diagnose and manage, but with the right veterinary approach, we can ensure horses receive the best care possible. Predisposing factors such as poor ventilation, dusty environments, transportation stress, and infectious disease exposure can contribute to respiratory issues in horses. Common signs to watch for include coughing, nasal discharge, labored breathing, and decreased performance.

When investigating equine respiratory disease, veterinarians have several diagnostic tools at their disposal, including physical examinations, endoscopy, radiography, and even sampling of respiratory secretions for analysis. Treatment options may vary depending on the specific condition but can include rest, anti-inflammatory medications, bronchodilators, and addressing environmental factors. Regular monitoring for any changes in respiratory function is crucial for early intervention and optimal management of these conditions.

By staying vigilant and proactive, we can help keep our equine companions healthy and thriving.

06/19/2024

It’s coffee time for Goose the Mini

Goose was more interested in a Starbucks pumpkin spiced latte (non-fat) than his scheduled semi-annual health plan visit with Dr. Jane Westendorf.

Happily, Goose got a clean bill of health without a caffeine boost……

It's the perfect time of year to call us at 604.826.5089 to learn more about our Miniature Horse Health Management Plans.

06/17/2024

DVM student Katriana Van Woudenberg is in the middle of her second-year practicum at Horizon Equine.

With coaching from Dr. Sarah Squinas, Katriana practiced farrier radiographs on Dancer owned by equine veterinary assistant Adele Wong.

Dancer was hamming it up as our “patient stand in” cheekily sticking her tongue out at the camera.

Horizon Equine proudly supports one DVM student practicum annually which ultimately helps to increase certified veterinarians to serve the equine community. Our program is designed to provide veterinary students with an opportunity to gain practical experience while working alongside our veterinarians and veterinarian assistants.

06/14/2024

Congratulations to Cherie Kramer, senior judges Sami Scheuring and Kim Sterchi, and the many volunteers of the BC Miniature Horse Association who delivered a wonderful Spring Classic on June 7 – 8 at Heritage Park in Chilliwack.

The participants and their mini horses competed in various classes showing to top form. Congratulations to all show winners.

Horizon Equine Veterinary Clinic was proud to sponsor and serve as vet on call for the event. We look forward to seeing everyone next year.

06/12/2024

Foaling Preparation: Neonatal Exam

Foals rely on their mother’s antibodies to protect them for the first few months of life. These antibodies are delivered in the form of colostrum, the milk passed from the mare to the foal within the first 24 hours after delivery. There are several reasons why a foal may not ingest enough colostrum and therefore be at risk for serious illness.

A neonatal exam performed by your veterinarian is the best way to ensure that your newborn foal has ingested enough colostrum. Through an IgG SNAP test veterinarians can also identify any issues that may require immediate care, such as contracted tendons, angular limb deformities, or umbilical hernias. These are time sensitive issues. Building a plan with your veterinarian within 8 to 12 hours of birth is essential for a happy and healthy foal.

Remember, mares don’t always foal within business hours but that’s okay. Our ‘on-call’ veterinarian is always available to facilitate a neonatal exam. Simply call and leave an emergent voicemail at 604-826-5089. The “on-call” veterinarian will get back to you promptly.

06/10/2024

Horizon Equine sponsors the WestCoast Working Equitation Show Season

WestCoast Working Equitation is a member-led, nonprofit organization promoting the sport of Working Equitation throughout Vancouver and the Lower Mainland/Fraser Valley.

Their purpose is to promote the sport of Working Equitation (WE) in a fun and supportive way that promotes the welfare of the horse and encourages good horsemanship.

The discipline was created to celebrate the partnership between horse and rider. WE became a competitive sport in 1996 after being developed by four countries. In 2004, the World Association for Working Equitation (WAWE) was established to govern the sport internationally while each country has its own set of rules to govern domestic competitions.

The sport tests the horse and rider’s partnership and ability to maneuver obstacles. There are 7 levels of Working Equitation: Introductory, Novice A, Novice B, Intermediate A, Intermediate B, Advanced, and Masters.

Horizon Equine proudly supports the WE season with a Silver Sponsorship. Good luck to all competitors, horses, and much thanks to the many volunteers and organizers.

Photo of Valerie Mica of Boehringer Ingelheim who collaborated with us on our sponsorship of WCWE. Photo credit to Marion Cox.

06/07/2024

Foaling Preparation: 1-2-3 Steps of Foaling

Have you heard of the 1-2-3 steps of foaling? Newborn foals should stand within 1 hour, nurse within 2 hours, and the mare should pass the placenta within 3 hours. Any delay in any of these steps can be harmful to the foal and/or the mare and require immediate veterinary care.

Pete's human grandmother was very diligent and knew the 1-2-3 rule inside and out in preparation for his arrival. Pete got a little stuck during stage 1 and his human was a rock star at calling Dr. Jane immediately and being able to help Pete's mom deliver successfully.

The veterinary team at Horizon Equine is dedicated to mare and foal health. They stand ready to help development of a foaling plan. Should you be new to foaling or have a foal on the way, connect with our equine veterinarians today to develop a foaling plan to ensure that mom and baby have the best care possible.

06/05/2024

Spring Essentials: Fly Protection for Horses

As spring and summer approach, it's crucial to prioritize fly control for the health and comfort of our equine friends. Flies, mosquitoes, and other pesky insects not only irritate horses but also pose serious health risks. Predisposing factors like warm weather and standing water create ideal breeding grounds for these pests, increasing the likelihood of infestation.

Common signs of fly-related problems in horses include restlessness, tail swishing, skin lesions from scratching, and even the development of painful conditions like sweet itch.

To keep your horses happy and healthy, implementing effective fly control measures is essential. This includes practices such as regular manure removal, maintaining clean stables and pastures, using fly masks and sheets, applying insect repellents, and utilizing fly traps or sprays.

By staying proactive with fly control, you can help prevent discomfort, irritation, and the transmission of diseases, ensuring our equine companions can enjoy the warmer months to the fullest.

06/03/2024

Introducing Our Health Plan Tailored for Miniature Horses & Donkeys

Proactively manage the long-term care of your miniature horse or donkey with our tailored health plan. Just like our Standard and Geriatric health plans, you benefit from 2 comprehensive physical exams plus an in-depth discussion with your vet about the results.

Horizon Equine health plans cover routine procedures such as dental exams and floating, vaccinations, and f***l tests for parasites.

The Miniature Health Plan also includes 2 specific items important for minis and donkeys:
Insulin and glucose testing to monitor for metabolic disease plus a 25% discount on X-Ray screening for any laminitis changes

Call our Care Coordinators at 604-826-5089 to register for the Miniature Health Plan. We will take care of the rest for you.

Learn more about Horizon Equine Health Plans. https://www.horizonequine.ca/wellness-preventative/

06/01/2024

Don’t let spring allergies hinder the fun of your show season

Being prepared for various horse allergies can help prevent more serious complications.

Allergies have the potential to develop in any horse, at any time, and for a multitude of reasons. With horses these issues primarily impact the respiratory and integumentary (skin) systems. While many allergic reactions typically show as mild temporary skin hives or occasional coughing, severe ones can significantly affect your horse's health and overall well-being.

Like allergies with people, prevention is key for horses. Diagnosis and early treatment can reduce the severity of the initial allergic reaction. This can lessen the chance of increased sensitivity and future reactions later.

Keep an eye for any allergy symptoms with your horse. Feel free to call our Care Coordinators at 604-826-5089 with any questions or concerns.

05/30/2024

Last week Horizon Equine held our second annual Pizza Party with chef Dr. Steve!

It was a wonderful turn out with even better pizza! Thank you Steve and Rachael for this great evening and filling our tummies!

05/29/2024

Horizon Equine sponsors show season at Southlands Riding Club

Southlands Riding Club has provided a home for equestrian sport and recreation in the City of Vancouver since 1943. As a class sponsor, Horizon Equine is proud to support the Southlands community. Good luck to all riders and thanks to the volunteers and organizers.

Photo Credit Robyn Cowan

05/27/2024

Foaling Preparation: 10th Month Gestation

At Horizon Equine, we have a dedicated team of veterinary professionals committed to mare and foal health, including helping our clients prepare for their new foal’s arrival.

Foals are born with weak immune systems and require antibodies from their mother’s colostrum (first milk) for immune protection.

For the best quality colostrum and strongest immune boost, preparation begins during the last month of pregnancy, before the foal is even born. This is when the expecting mare should receive her core vaccine boosters to build the antibodies that will be passed down through her milk when the foal arrives. At the same time, a trans-abdominal ultrasound can be performed to determine if the foal is in the correct position for delivery.

A perfect example of dedication and preparedness is our patient Cass, who had issues producing milk during previous pregnancies. Cass’ new owner made sure to have an early conversation with Dr. Jane to make a foaling plan and start on medication to improve her milk production.

Cass is now the proud mom of a handsome c**t named Groot and has an udder full of milk! Horizon Equine would like to congratulate the entire family on the new addition, especially Cass’ human for her diligence with Cass’ gestational care!

If your mare is nearing the end of her pregnancy and requires vaccination, contact our Care Coordinators at 604-826-5089.

05/25/2024

Horizon Equine sponsors the Prince Phillip Games

The Prince Philip Games are a team competition played by Pony Clubs around the world. His Royal Highness, Prince Philip, Duke of Edinborough donated the original Prince Philip Cup to the British Pony Club in the 1950's. Canada has its own Prince Philip Cup, so named by permission of His Highness, and donated by the late J.R.Crang. It is awarded annually to the best team in Canada.

Horizon Equine is proud to serve as a “Pony Pal” sponsor of the Boundary Bay Pony Club’s Prince Philip Games. Teams of four or five riders under the age of 15 and their horses play in games held during April through to June annually. Good luck to the riders and horses and much thanks to the organizers.

05/23/2024

A mare’s reproductive cycle is a complex process.

Dr. Lauren Jeffery and Dr. Jane Westendorf are passionate about equine reproduction and love working with our clients to design the best breeding program for their mare.

Both have invested years in building their knowledge, experience, and skill set to provide specific breeding plans for each mare based on their unique reproductive cycle and any associated challenges.

From seasoned broodmares to older maiden mares, breeding success takes more than luck. Success takes careful organization, timing, and management of the mare for the best chance of conception and a safe healthy foaling. To start the breeding conversation so our vets can understand your objectives, Call 604-826-5089.

05/22/2024

Horizon Equine would like to congratulate Hada on her brand new baby! Everyone meet Topanga, a gorgeous buckskin filly bred last year by Dr. Jane.

05/21/2024

Respiratory diseases can be costly for the horse owner. Respiratory illnesses lead to significant downtime in riding and training. As with people, it can take weeks for the horse’s respiratory tract to fully heal from inflammation or infection, and competition horses may miss crucial events resulting in lost opportunities.

Diagnostic and treatment expenses can add up if the condition becomes too established. A boarding or training facility can also be affected by disease transmission and lost revenues.

The primary categories of respiratory diseases affecting horses include:
Infectious (caused by viruses or bacteria)
Allergic
Parasitic

Each of these above causes may present in specific or different ways. Monitoring for early signs of disease like coughing, nasal discharge, or changes in breathing effort is critical. Touch base with your veterinarian early should you have any suspicion of respiratory concerns with your horse.

05/19/2024

Important Prenatal Care

Once a mare has been confirmed in foal, the journey toward a healthy foal on the ground is just beginning.

Just like people, mares require prenatal care to help increase the chances of a healthy pregnancy.

One important aspect of routine prenatal care is vaccination against contagious abortion, which is caused by Equine Herpesvirus-1 (EHV-1). This virus continually circulates in the horse population, and mares may abort their foal if infected during the later stages of pregnancy.

EHV-1 vaccination at 5, 7, and 9 months of gestation is a simple and safe way to prevent contagious abortion. These prenatal vaccination appointments also provide an opportunity for your veterinarian to examine your mare and her unborn foal to help detect any subtle signs of problems that may require treatment.

Should you have a pregnant mare needing routine prenatal care, we are happy to help. Contact our Care Coordinators at 604-826-5089 to get started with these important appointments for your mare.

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05/18/2024

From everyone at Horizon Equine, we hope you have a great long weekend!

05/16/2024

With breeding season in full swing, Dr. Jane and Dr. Lauren have been kept very busy, but it's all worth while when that cute little black dot shows up! Meet our next 2025 foal!

Book your repro appointments now so you can meet your new foal next spring too!

05/15/2024

Acupuncture treatments help your horse perform well

Whether you work in an office, outdoors, or are on the road -- by the week’s end occasionally your body can be a bit sore and in need of some TLC.
Horses are no different - any working horse can have muscle tightness just from their day-to-day jobs. Even if there’s no lameness or injury present, preventive therapies can help horses be more comfortable for their daily work.

Comfortable horses feel better and perform better.
Horses reaching their full potential makes for a successful riding season.
Having a great season is fun and rewarding.

Speak with our Care Coordinators to learn more about how Horizon Equine can support you and your horse this show season.

05/13/2024

Maple Ridge Equi-Sports Center

Show season is on the Horizon. We are proud to serve as “Vet On Call” for all equestrian events held at MREC during the 2024 season. MREC plays host to many shows and disciplines year-round, including dressage, show jumping, hunters, horse trials, combined driving as well as western events such as reining and monthly schooling shows.

Good luck to all riders and thanks to the many volunteers and organizers.

05/09/2024

Lameness secondary to other issues

While the vast majority of lameness problems are truly a primary issue that occurs in one or more limbs, some lameness cases develop secondary to other health issues.

You may have heard of the 2 most common of these health conditions: Cushing’s Disease (PPID) and Insulin Resistance (IR). Abnormal hormonal regulation of pituitary gland ACTH in PPID indirectly can lead to laminitis and lameness. Similarly with IR, abnormal insulin and glucose regulation is a significant risk factor for development of laminitis.

Less common causes of systemic disease resulting in lameness include Potomac Horse Fever, and the secondary effects of colitis and diarrhea.

Our veterinarians are always available to discuss any soundness concerns you may have regarding your horse.

05/07/2024

Schedule a Spring Horse Health Check up

Whether getting ready for show season or hitting the trails with your horse, spring marks a good time to schedule a health check up with your Horizon Equine Vet for a good overview to your horse’s health.

Get your question list ready and use this time to have a thorough conversation about diet, weight management, soundness, competition plans, or any health-related concerns. Collaborating with your Horizon Equine vet can set out the best plan for the health of your horse and prepare for an enjoyable season ahead.

05/04/2024

Join us at Fur & Feathers fundraising Gala for SAINTS Rescue.

Horizon Equine is proud to sponsor this annual event that raises vital funds to provide sanctuary and care for senior animals in need. Join us Saturday, June 1, 2024 at the Diamond & Denim themed evening for buffet dinner, silent auction and games while hearing the incredible stories of the animals cared for by SAINTS Rescue. The event starts at 6 pm at the Clarion Hotel in Abbotsford. Tickets are $95 per person.

05/02/2024

Horizon Equine team members Dr. Steve and assistant Leila carefully prepared for their visit with Donner yesterday. They discussed all the critical steps, instruments, and supplies needed on the drive to their morning farm call. With some great feedback from the owner they came up with the BEST PLAN:
Homemade expresso ☕️ & whipped cream 🌪️. It went great!!

Oh, they also did some acupuncture that made Donner all snoozy 😴

05/01/2024

About Embryo Transfer

Embryo Transfer (ET) is a procedure in which an embryo is removed from the uterus of a donor mare and then transferred into the uterus of a recipient mare, who then carries the pregnancy.

Recovering the embryo from your mare is a non-surgical and painless process performed between 6.5 and 8-days post ovulation. The uterus is flushed with sterile fluid, which then passes through an embryo filter. A microscope is used to locate the embryo in the filter. The microscopic embryo is loaded into an instrument which is used to transfer it into the recipient’s uterus.

Should you be considering breeding your mare and/or interested in pursuing embryo transfer, chat with Dr. Lauren Jeffery or Dr. Jane Westendorf. They will work with you to make informed decisions and map out a breeding plan specifically tailored to your mare and your breeding objectives.

Address

1625 Angus Campbell Road
Abbotsford, BC
V3G2G4

Telephone

+16048265089

Website

http://www.horizonequine.ca/

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Videos

Foaling Preparation: 1-2-3 Steps of Foaling Have you heard of the 1-2-3 steps of foaling? Newborn foals should stand within 1 hour, nurse within 2 hours, and the mare should pass the placenta within 3 hours. Any delay in any of these steps can be harmful to the foal and/or the mare and require immediate veterinary care. Pete's human grandmother was very diligent and knew the 1-2-3 rule inside and out in preparation for his arrival. Pete got a little stuck during stage 1 and his human was a rock star at calling Dr. Jane immediately and being able to help Pete's mom deliver successfully. The veterinary team at Horizon Equine is dedicated to mare and foal health. They stand ready to help development of a foaling plan. Should you be new to foaling or have a foal on the way, connect with our equine veterinarians today to develop a foaling plan to ensure that mom and baby have the best care possible. #breedinghorses #mares #foal

Incorporate acupuncture into lameness recovery A thorough myofascial exam is an incredible addition to a standard lameness exam using traditional diagnostics like nerve blocks, radiographs, and ultrasound. Both the exam itself, and potential follow up treatment can be an excellent complementary technique to help address subtle issues or secondary pain that may be overlooked. Not only is Dr. Steve Chiasson sought out for soundness and performance exams, but he is also a certified instructor in Equine Veterinary Medical Acupuncture. In addition to our acupuncture service, Horizon Equine is home to an array of advanced technologies and complimentary treatments to address the complete care for your horse. Dr Steve often says, “the horse is telling us a story…”. We collaborate with you and your support team to figure out that story and get your horse back in peak form. #eventing #hunterjumper #lameness #lamenessrecovery

Horizon Equine hosted a full house at our special event early April featuring Douglas Myer, Technical Services Veterinarian with Equine Boehringer Ingleheim Animal Health. Dr. Myers covered the signs and symptoms of PPID, also known as Equine Cushing’s Disease. Thanks to Val and Boehringer for co-hosting with us and to our guests for joining us. We hope everyone enjoyed the session and the Subway sandwiches. Our Dr. Jane Westendorf checked in with Dreamer Shumey this sunny April day to observe his progress. A few short months ago, this 29-year-old gelding was having issues keeping weight on. To his owner Ron, Dreamer seemed a little ‘quiet’ and tired. Dr. Jane diagnosed PPID and Prascend was prescribed. Additionally, Dreamer’s teeth were floated. Dreamer’s happy story is depicted in the video. Last weekend, Dreamer and Ron went for their first trail ride of the season. Dreamer is back to his old self jumping puddles and skipping along at Aldergrove Park. #equinevet #horsehealth #boehringer #Prascend

Is there a tooth in there?? Woody's annual dental checkup showed his canine tooth was hidden under a HUGE mountain of calculus! Horses' canine teeth build up more plaque than their other teeth as they are not involved in the chewing process. This plaque becomes mineralized to calculus which needs to be removed periodically. Don't let these get too large or the gums in this area become irritated and inflamed. Woody is feeling much better after his visit from Dr. Steve and vet assistant Leila.

Thanks to our fabulous client Pacific Riding for Developing Abilities (PRDA) for the VIP indoor parking protecting Horizon Equine veterinary trucks and equipment from the inclement weather experienced yesterday on the lower mainland. Our vets Dr. Sarah and Dr. Jane as well as veterinary assistants Laura and Adele were spoiled with fresh hot coffee, hot chocolate and homemade chili to keep them warm. Thank you PRDA for such a kind gesture. It was a long day of dueling dental appointments for the horses stabled at PRDA. Our team completed dental exams and procedures on 22 horses. PRDA is a not-for-profit, therapeutic equestrian riding centre located in Langley on the edge of the idyllic trail system of Campbell Valley Regional Park. Through equestrian activities and with the involvement of the community, they enhance the quality of life for individuals with a wide range of abilities. PRDA therapeutic services are available year-round. Check PRDA’s website to learn more – especially the inspiring volunteer opportunities available. Horizon Equine’s Dental Awareness Initiative is in full swing until March 1st. Call our Care Coordinators at 604 826 5089 to book and take advantage of 15% savings. #PRDA #cves #horsebc #bcea #vancouvertrails

Post Op Castration Care As many owners of our colt patients from last year are calling to book castrations, we thought we would share one of the most important at-home treatments to help recovery from castration surgery. It’s exercise. Keep your new gelding moving around during the first week to two weeks post-castration. Body movement is vital to ensure adequate drainage, infection prevention and to promote healing of the incision sites. A common recommendation is lunging your gelding multiple times a day to encourage movement. Watch Seymour, one of Dr. Lauren and Dr. Jane’s favourite miniature donkey patients. He doesn’t lunge but he does enjoy his favourite ball. (Dare we say watch out FIFA world cup?) Video footage was captured the day after Dr. Jane castrated Seymore. Enjoy his adeptness and ball handling skills. As you can see, he’s doing a great job following Dr. Jane’s orders to exercise – all by himself. Thanks to Seymour’s owners for taking such diligent care of him. Watching such a special Seymour moment makes the whole equine team smile.

Acupuncture is effective at treating many different conditions including back soreness, general arthritis, various geriatric ailments, anhidrosis (non-sweaters), laminitis, respiratory issues, and many other conditions. Acupuncture can also be used for immune regulation, GI regulation (colic), reproductive regulation, performance enhancement, as an anti-inflammatory, and help in improving microcirculation. Hear firsthand Dr. Steve’s journey to become Certified in Veterinary Medical Acupuncture.