MVS Equine Veterinary Services

31/10/2024

Did you know...

That for every 1 centimeter of extra toe length-this results in an extra 50 kilograms of force acting on the tendons?

And...

A -1 degree drop in the sole angle where the deep digital flexor tendon inserts into the coffin bone (affected by the Palmar Angle) can lead to a 4% increase in the pressure exerted by the DDFT on the navicular bone?

(Credit Dr. Renate Weller)

Additionally, long toes means that the heels migrate forward which causes concussive damage to the navicular region.

This is why knowledgeable and timely trimming is necessary to an equine's well being. People need to also get far away from the idea that an 8 week trim schedule is adequate for all horses since in a 5-6 week cycle 3-4% correct angle is lost almost every time (depending on the surfacing your horse stays on) and this results in 20% more load on the tendons.

01/06/2023

I've had a few clients ask about these products. They are currently most commonly used in the UK and USA but are showing promising results for those horses where traditional joint injections (HA and/or steroids) are no longer providing relief. https://m.facebook.com/story.php?story_fbid=660813916082160&id=100064606727332&mibextid=Nif5oz

When used properly, this injectable can be an effective substitute for traditional joint therapies for managing horses with osteoarthritis.

01/06/2023

Some quick tips on methods for cooling your horse down in this hot weather. https://m.facebook.com/story.php?story_fbid=10158250637617691&id=128570532690&mibextid=Nif5oz

As temperatures keep climbing, here is your reminder to pay close attention to signs of heat stress in your horse this summer. ☀️🐴

Signs of heat stroke may range from mild to severe and life-threatening. Foals usually cannot take as much heat as adult horses. A mare may be fine, but her foal may be getting sick from being out on a hot day. Horses with heavy muscling or excess fat or in poor condition will have more problems. Keep in mind that exercise is a major source of body heat and that strenuous work on a hot, humid day can lead to problems in a short period of time for even the best-conditioned horse.

Does this mean you should not ride on a hot day? Not necessarily. It just means you should take precautions and use your common sense. Remain vigilant for dehydration and signs of heat exhaustion, as heat exhaustion should not be underestimated and can advance to heat stroke quickly. Above all, be kind and attentive to your equine partner’s need. If you feel hot, they feel hotter. So if they look tired—it’s time for a drink, a cold bath, and a break in the shade.

As always, consult your primary veterinarian for more tips tailored to your specific horse’s situation! Read more about heat stroke on our website at https://aaep.org/horsehealth/heat-stroke

08/02/2023

A good reminder..

DID YOU KNOW?

Puncture wounds in the foot qualify as medical emergencies, due to the amount of vital structures just beneath the sole that can be physically damaged and/or contaminated with bacteria when they are penetrated by a sharp object.

If your horse steps on a nail or other sharp object and it remains embedded in the hoof, resist the temptation to pull the nail out and consult with your veterinarian first. Leaving the nail in place will allow the vet to take x-rays of the foot before removal, which helps to identify exactly what structures have been penetrated, and to plan the most appropriate strategy for dealing with the situation.

If your veterinarian advises, carefully remove the nail to prevent the horse from stepping on it and driving it deeper into the hoof cavity. As you remove it, be sure to mark the exact point and depth of entry with tape and/or a marker so the veterinarian can assess the extent of damage. Apply antiseptic to the wound, and wrap to prevent additional contamination while you wait for your appointment.

Penetrating hoof wounds can be extremely serious and shouldn’t be underestimated. The prognosis for successful recovery depends on quick action to identify the path of the nail, treatment of potential infection and mechanical damage to the foot, and proper aftercare. As always, consult your horse doctor for more information and advice!

28/01/2023

Clients often ask if their horse is too thin? Simply looking at your horse may not be sufficient. Here is a guide to help you determine if your horse is carrying adequate weight. Keep in mind that weight loss and poor body condition can be an indication of an underlying problem including chronic musculoskeletal pain. If your horse is losing muscle and struggling to keep weight on, feel free to contact us for a consultation.

: Being able to assess your equine friend's weight and body condition is a valuable skill, especially during the winter months when horses (particularly older horses) need to generate more heat to stay warm and may hide their weight loss under a fluffy coat.

The Henneke Body Condition Scoring Chart is an important tool that provides a standard scoring system by rating the horse's physical condition on visual appraisal and palpation (feel) of six key conformation points: the amount of flesh or fat covering along the neck; the withers; down the crease of the back; at the tailhead; ribs: and behind the shoulder at the girth.

A body condition score of somewhere between 4 and 6 is ideal for most horses. However, keep in mind that in some disciplines (like racing, polo and eventing) and some life stages (like pregnancy) a higher or lower body score might be more appropriate.

If you think your horse is too fat or too thin (or even if you can't quite decide), be sure to have a chat with your veterinarian to discuss the appropriate condition and feeding program for your equine friend!

20/01/2023

Bad behavior is more likely to be a sign of musculoskeletal pain in horses rather than simply an "attitude" problem. Check out this video for a more in depth look

The 24 Behaviors of the Ridden Horse in Pain is a film that dares to challenge the way we look at "badly behaving" horses, and promotes the notion that lamen...

13/01/2023

I am pleased to announce that our website is up and running. Please contact us if you are interested in knowing more about the services offered.

Equine mobile veterinary services specializing in lameness, spinal manipulation therapy (chiropractic) and cold-laser treatment.