Oak Ridges Equine Vet

07/23/2024

Shockwave for treatment of Kissing Spines!

***Did you know that all shockwaves are NOT created equal?***

When choosing shockwave therapy for your horse, it is important to ask what type of machine the practitioner is using. There are two main types of shockwave therapy available out there. RADIAL✖️ and FOCUSED✔️.

So, what exactly is the difference between radial shockwave therapy and focused shockwave therapy?

✖️ Radial shockwaves, also known as soft shocks, can treat larger superficial areas. The pressure waves lose power the deeper they enter the body. This makes it a fair treatment option in humans or dogs/cats when the targeted tissue is superficial. But radial shockwave is NOT recommended by equine veterinarians as an effective treatment modality for horses. Especially for treatment of back, neck, sacroiliac regions in which deep pe*******on is required to reach the target tissue.

✔️ FOCUSED shockwaves, also known as hard shocks, pe*****te deeper into the tissue and target specific areas. This is the standard of care for equine sports medicine.

At Oak Ridges Equine Vet we offer FOCUSED extra corporeal shockwave treatment.

07/15/2024

It's a SHOCKWAVE!

We have added Focused Extracorporeal Shockwave to our services.

Extracorporeal Shockwave Therapy is a non-invasive treatment used in horses to promote healing of injured soft tissue, bones, and joints. The shockwaves are waves of sound energy generated by a machine, and applied to the surface of the skin to target the underlying tissues.

What is Shockwave used for?
- Back pain
- Neck pain
- Suspensory ligament injuries
- Check ligament injuries
- Arthritis in any joint
- Stress fractures
- Splint bone fractures
- Navicular disease
- SI pain
- Shin splints

We are excited to bring this treatment modality to Northumberland County, Peterborough County, Kawartha Lakes, Durham Region and surrounding areas!

* There are differences in quality and type of shockwaves in the industry. When considering shockwave services, ensure a veterinarian operated f
Focused shockwave is used for best results *

07/15/2024

A few weeks ago we announced we were adding an exciting new service for our clients!
Any guesses on what it might be?
This is the mystery box...

The answer will be revealed later today after we treat our first patient!

06/27/2024

Let's talk Muscle Health!

In the midst of show season and increased time in the saddle this time of year, whatever the discipline, it's a good time to think about how to support our equine partners' muscles.

Diet is key.

Important dietary components for supporting muscle are:
1) Healthy fats that contain Omega 3 which promote anti inflammatory effects. Fats can be used preferentially by muscles as a source of energy.
2) Anti oxidants such as Vitamin E and Selenium.
The best way to provide these important nutrients for your horse is in the form of a high quality supplement combination or individual supplements.
One of our favourite supplement brands is Platinum Performance - Healthy Weight flaxseed oil, Vitamin E and Selenium Yeast products.

Externally, we can support muscle development and comfort with:
1) Exercises and core strengthening rehabilitation
2) Proper saddle fit
3) Treating back or neck pain conditions
4) Treating joint pain conditions

Some treatment modalities for supporting muscle pain depending on cause and location are:
*Veterinary Spinal Manipulation Therapy (VSMT)
*Acupuncture
*Mesotherapy
*Shockwave
*Massage, and more!

Give us a call if your horse is experiencing muscle pain or you have noted abnormal muscle patterning such as loss of topline.

We are here to help!

06/17/2024

Stay tuned for an EXCITING announcement on a new piece of equipment we are adding to our practice. Coming soon!

05/19/2024

On site at the OCTRA Memorial ride this weekend judging and acting as treatment vet. Competitive trail riding is a great sport with excellent athletes, both human and horse!
Happy to be a part of this local event.

05/13/2024

You may see a new face with us this week! Peyton is a pre-vet student who is spending time with us from the University of Guelph. She nailed her first blood draw (on a horse), and is getting exposure to equine medicine in preparation for her application to vet school.
We love teaching and fueling enthusiasm in future veterinarians!
Thanks for joining us Peyton.

05/06/2024

Treating one of our cutest patients with ProStride today!

This time of year we are getting patients ready to feel comfortable and athletic for whatever job they love to do.

Give us a call to find out more about ProStride. We are thrilled to offer a natural, safer and effective option for joint injections and to have the ability to treat right at home on the farm.



Thanks to our client for capturing this beautiful, sunny moment! Thank you to ALL our clients for trusting us with the Sports Medicine needs for your equine partners. We LOVE what we do.

04/29/2024

We have a new diagnostic tool at Oak Ridges Equine Vet!

Serum Amyloid A (SAA) is an on-farm blood test that can aid Dr. Pope in determining if a problem is infectious in nature. Results are available in 8 minutes! Serum Amyloid A is a protein made by the liver that elevates in high numbers in rapid response to high levels of inflammation in the body. Within 24 hours of a bacterial infection, this protein is at elevated levels in the bloodstream.

In a Sports Medicine context this tool is excellent for many purposes. For example, distinguishing between a cough that is caused by equine asthma (which is often a cause of poor performance), and infectious causes of cough such as bacterial or viral pneumonia.

In a recent case a horse with swelling and heat in the pastern region with a complex history of chronic lameness issues tested with high levels of SAA. Combined with history and physical exam findings a diagnosis of cellulitis was reached and the horse was promptly treated with antibiotics.

Having the tools to diagnose and treat horses appropriately is what makes this job so rewarding!

04/29/2024

Neck stretches are great for improving mobility and flexibility, as well as core strengthening.

DAY 2 of our stretches focus is:
Lower Cervical Flexion.

04/16/2024

We are so excited for Spring here at Oak Ridges Equine Vet!

This time of year horses are getting ready for show season and with increased exercise often comes manifestation of pain.

One common sign that I notice on clinical exams of lame horses or horses with poor performance or behavioural issues, is back pain.
Back pain can be a primary problem (Kissing Spines, Arthritis of the articular facet joints along the spinal column) or a secondary problem (pain in the back as a result of lameness in one or both of the hind limbs).

In horses with back pain, despite treatment avenues pursued, proper training/exercise and rehabilitation as well as excellent saddle fit by a professional are imperative.

All of our clients have access to the Oak Ridges Equine Vet instruction manual for passive stretching and core strengthening exercises as well as custom rehabilitation plans. We are going to release some quick guides for conditioning your horses so they are the most comfortable and athletic for the upcoming season!

DAY 1:
Core Strengthening Exercise: Sternal, Withers & Thoracic
Hold this position at each location for 3-5 seconds and repeat 3-5 times.
Repeat 4-5x weekly!



Thanks to the wonderful Dr. Sarah Campbell, DC (human and equine chiropractor) and her horse for being our models!

03/19/2024

Electroacupuncture (EAP)!
A very effective means of treating back pain by sending a small electrical current through the bladder meridian between 2 Acupuncture needles. Here, we are supporting lung, liver and kidney organ systems with 6 paired needles on the back.
This therapy works by blocking bioactive pain chemicals in the body, decreasing inflammation and activating nerve fibres.

One of my favourite patients (I have so many favourites!) received his first EAP treatment today. He has been exposed to dry needles several times and today was ready for extra stimulation.

EAP is not appropriate in all Acupuncture cases. Some horses are MUCH too sensitive for the electrical stimulation initially. The goal is gentle, effective acupuncture and less is more with our equine partners!

03/19/2024

Getting one of our favourite barns ready for show season with Coggins testing today!

Give us a call to book performance exams before heading to the US or staying local for shows.

03/03/2024

We had such a great time at our Client Education Seminar: Treatment of Arthritis in Horses - Featuring ProStride!

Thank you to everyone who attended today! It was great to meet so many new faces.

Thank you to our Zoetis equine technical services veterinarian Dr. Doré for her informative presentation on ProStride.

We look forward to hosting more educational seminars in the future. Stay tuned!

03/01/2024

We are so excited that our client seminar focusing on Equine Arthritis, featuring ProStride is tomorrow!
Seminar is starting at 12pm. We have subway sandwiches, cookies, coffee and tea to snack on!
The event is at the Peterborough Humane Society, in the multi purpose room.
Enter the front doors of the humane society main building, the multi purpose room is the last door on the left.
We look forward to seeing you there!

Thank you so much to our sponsors:

- ZOETIS

- PLATINUM PERFORMANCE

- Eco-Eq is the ecological and economical solution for horse tack and equestrian apparel in Peterborough. Established in 2022 we have helped riders in all levels and within all budgets find gear and suitable apparel. The tack shop located at 1995 Assumption Rd Peterborough. Call or text Rebecca at 705-768-9580 to book a shopping time. Follow us on Instagram and Facebook for pop-up hours, item features & updates!
SPRING TACK SWAP HOSTED SATURDAY APRIL 6th RAIN OR SHINE FROM 9-1

02/14/2024

March 2nd is quickly approaching. For those planning on joining us and have any questions regarding the topic Arthritis in horses feel free to forward them to [email protected].

02/14/2024

Just over two weeks away!
RSVP on our event page https://fb.me/e/5XISNApMm

01/29/2024

Save the date!

We are hosting a client educational seminar on March 2nd, 2024.
Location will be in Peterborough.
Exciting topics of conversation, learning and door prizes!

Stay tuned for details.

01/28/2024

Dr. Pope is now seeing dogs and cats for veterinary spinal manipulation therapy (aka animal chiropractic) and medical acupuncture in a limited capacity at Millbrook Valley Animal Hospital.
Due to limited appointment availability, these slots are reserved for acutely affected animals that are suffering from pain or paralysis, for example. We want to be able to help animals in need with these specific treatment techniques!
Call 705-932-6824 to book appointments.
Message us for more information.

01/05/2024

PRE PURCHASE EXAMS

Dr. Pope highly encourages all horse buyers to engage a veterinarian for a pre purchase exam prior to committing to a purchase.

A Pre Purchase exam consists of a thorough physical exam, neurological exam and soundness exam to screen for potential health issues that may affect the horses' eligibility for its intended purpose. X-rays of the major joints of the limbs are usually performed to check for abnormalities. The areas most frequently imaged include: The front feet, all 4 fetlocks, the hocks, the stifles, the carpi, the neck and the back. X-rays can tell you if degenerative joint disease, OCD lesions, or mineralization in soft tissues is present. X-rays are often the most expensive part of the process. However, if a major issue such as an orthopedic lesion that requires surgery to correct is detected, this can save the buyer from further expenses that will manifest down the line. It is also common to perform bloodwork to screen for general health issues.

You may have heard that a horse will either PASS or FAIL a Pre Purchase exam. But, this is NOT the purpose of a Pre Purchase Exam. A horse should be assessed and evaluated for suitability related to the intended use of the horse. For example, a horse with mild arthritis may thrive if the intended use is recreational trail riding, but not so much if they are expected to compete in 50 mile Endurance rides. It is important to remember that a Pre Purchase exam is a snapshot in time and Dr. Pope cannot predict the future, but she can certainly shed light on existing issues that may affect the horses' ability to do its job!

One of Dr. Pope's favourite things is to perform thorough and detailed Pre Purchase Exams and assist horse owners with purchasing their next mount!

If you are in the market for your next horse, give us a call to find out more about Pre Purchase Exams! 705 932 0773 or email at [email protected].

12/23/2023

Wishing all of our clients a Merry Christmas!!!🎄🎁

12/07/2023

Thinking outside the Box: Let's talk about STALL REST for horses.

Stall rest is often implemented by owners and veterinarians as part of a treatment plan for horses that have sustained soft tissue injuries (large wounds, tendon or ligament injuries) or when a horse is in the post-operative period, in an effort to immobilize a specific body region so that healing can occur. Some horses are placed on stall rest for lengthy periods of time.

Stall rest is appropriate only for very specific applications, but in general should be utilized as MINIMALLY and INFREQUENTLY as possible, especially related to TENDON and LIGAMENT injuries.

When should stall rest be implemented?
- POST-OPERATIVELY, as prescribed by a surgeon.
- For large, catastrophic wounds.

What are some of the adverse side effects of STALL REST?
- Loss of general conditioning and muscle mass.
- Poor mental health for the horse (and often a source of stress for barn staff or owners).
- Exacerbation of orthopedic conditions (such as osteoarthritis) that benefit from consistent mild to moderate exercise.
- Development or worsening of stress related habits (pawing, cribbing, choke, etc).
- Limbs "stocking up.

What are alternatives to stall rest in cases of TENDON and LIGAMENT injury?
- In some cases, horses benefit from moving between a stall and a small outdoor pen. Construct a small outdoor pen with panels that allows the horse to walk and move about freely but not run or play. A daily change of scenery can be very beneficial for horses that are rehabilitating from an injury.
- Turnout in a small pen with a mild tranquilizer medication as prescribed by your veterinarian, to facilitate calmer behaviour and prohibit running, playing or overuse of the injured area.
- Treatment of the tendon or ligament injury with (PRP) PLATELET RICH PLASMA or ANICELL ANIMATRIX D can facilitate faster healing with more aggressive rehabilitation.

Our personal favourite is ANIMATRIX D which is preserved amnion harvested from horse placenta. These tissues are rich in structural building blocks important to nearly all tissues including a mix of biomolecules such as collagen, hyaluronic acid, carbohydrate-rich proteins (proteoglycans), and are anti-microbial.
The product is injected non-invasively into soft tissue surrounding a tendon or ligament injury site, and most cases are back to regular level of exercise in 90 days with aggressive rehabilitation and NO STALL REST.

Call us for more information at 705 932 0773, or email at [email protected]

11/18/2023

We had the pleasure of treating a very hard working Endurance horse with ProStride APS this week. This guy has had intermittent foot pain and has managed well with ProStride in the past, so we are continuing the therapy on farm instead of him having to travel far away to access these type of services!
He was a perfect gentleman for his injections. We are honoured to be a part of his team and keep him feeling comfortable and competitive out on the trails for many years to come! Thanks to his owner for documenting the process!

11/13/2023

AQUAPUNCTURE!

Acupuncture involves the insertion of needles through the skin at predetermined sites, called acupuncture points. Besides the use of solid, typically stainless steel needles, other means of simulating the points can be used. One of the most common methods is aqua puncture, in which a liquid, typically vitamin B12, is injected into the point. The aquapuncture process leaves behind a liquid that continues to stimulate and treat the point with pressure (due to displacement of tissue by the fluid) and/or irritation over a period of time as it is absorbed. The effects of acupuncture therapy cannot be explained in terms of a single mechanism, but rather a series of interactions between the nervous, endocrine, and immune systems.

This patient was treated with a combination of Vitamin B12 (red in colour) and a local anesthetic which inhibits conduction of nerve signals, thus stopping nerves from sending pain signals to the brain. The purpose of this treatment is to break the chronic pain cycle that this patient has been experiencing in his back and sacroiliac regions!

11/12/2023

Meet the other half of Oak Ridges Equine Vet! This wonderful woman is Louise Dobbin. Louise is Dr. Pope's assistant, and the person who is often booking appointments and answering emails. She is a bright light and cheery face that many in the horse community are familiar with, and a skilled horsewoman. She keeps us organized and prepared for every appointment.

What we do would not be possible without Louise!

Thanks to Tracy Crapp for having us out to provide dentistry and acupuncture services for her horses!

11/05/2023

After 9 months of intensive training, Dr. Pope spent the weekend completing her Certified Veterinary Acupuncture exams through the Chi Institute!

In addition to the Integrative services Dr. Pope has already been offering for horses, we are excited to announce that we are now offering the following services for Companion Animals (dogs & cats):
- Mobile veterinary spinal manipulation therapy aka "animal chiropractic" services
- Mobile Acupuncture services

Indications for Acupuncture in dogs & cats:

- Improving quality of life in geriatric patients with chronic disease
- Lameness associated with soft tissue injuries and arthritis
- Neurological disease (weakness, herniated disc, paralysis)
- Pain
- Poor performance in sport dogs
- Any condition in which conventional treatments have failed
- Behaviour issues (anxiety)
- Plus more!

Email us at [email protected] for more details!

10/17/2023

Great article written by my friend and fellow equine sports medicine veterinarian, Dr. Chris White!

"While we can determine a lot about horses looking at their gross conformation, things are not always what they seem. Using radiographs, we can improve upon those clinical exam findings and fine-tune details which are not as easy to manipulate on the outside of the hoof capsule."

https://thehorse.com/1104826/the-value-of-hoof-radiographs/ #:~:text=More%20often%20than%20not%2C%20veterinarians,pathology%20(disease%20or%20damage).

Learn why hoof radiographs are important, how to use them, and what role they play in helping your horse feel and move better.

10/12/2023

Moving into the fall, Dr. Pope is accepting dentistry patients! Although our practice focus is on sports medicine and alternative therapies, maintenance of teeth is very important for overall health of the horse, and absolutely relates to performance issues.
Many behavioural and performance problems are specifically related to dental malocclusions.
Horses' oral anatomy and the biomechanics of chewing, cause the development of "sharp enamel points" on their cheek teeth. Over time, when these hard, unrelenting points are not addressed, they can start to dig into the cheek and tongue, causing wounds within the mouth. This can manifest as performance issues ranging from failure to give to the bit, drooling with the bit in the mouth, head tossing, even as far as weight loss in some severe cases.
I recommend all performance horses are evaluated annually for sharp enamel points and during the sedated exam, any emerging oral issues can be caught early.
I highly encourage all young horses starting at 2-3 years of age to have dental exams. When we introducing them to the bit and asking them to learn new skills we need to ensure there are no pain points that will delay success in training. The mouth changes drastically with the eruption of adult teeth and needs to be monitored closely during this time.
Contact us to book a dental appointment for your horses at (705)932-0773, or email [email protected]!

10/11/2023

Hoping all our clients and friends had a Happy Thanksgiving! We are thankful every day, for our office view. It doesn't get any better.

09/28/2023

Pro-Stride® APS is our highlight joint therapy this week! This is a natural joint therapy harvested from your horses' own blood, primarily used in helping manage osteoarthritis in horses and other causes of lameness to help reduce pain and inflammation.

The Autologous Protein Solution (APS) is created using mobile lab equipment that we bring to your barn, and can process blood into the target solution in 20-30 minutes. The APS is injected into diseased joints immediately after processing.

The Science: Pain and damage in your horse’s joints are caused by a process that breaks down the cartilage. Pro-inflammatory proteins called cytokines can cause damage to tissues in your horse’s joints. These cytokines, including interleukin-1 (IL-1) and tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-alpha), need to be blocked. If not, they bind to the cell surface receptors on cartilage and start the cartilage degradation process.
Your horse has several naturally occurring inhibitors (anti-inflammatory proteins) to block the pro-inflammatory cytokines. These include the interleukin-1 receptor antagonist protein (IL-1RA or IRAP), soluble interleukin-1 receptor (SIL-1R) and soluble tumor necrosis factor receptors (STNF-Rs). Pro-Stride highly concentrates these inhibitors to help reduce pain and protect the cartilage.

- One of my favourite applications for Pro-Stride is to use this as an alternative to injecting joints with Corticosteroids in horses that have metabolic issues, or for clients who simply want a natural alternative.
- Anti-inflammatory benefits are apparent for 6-12 months depending the level of severity of arthritis.
- The solution carries regenerative properties which can protect healthy remaining cartilage in the joint.

Contact us for more information at [email protected].

https://www.zoetisus.com/products/horses/equine-regenerative-medicine/pro-stride-aps