Now we finally have some sun, we need to be aware summer colic!
Can you recognise the signs of colic and do you know what you can do to prevent it?
Clinical signs of equine colic
-Flank watching
-Lying down and/or rolling
-Pawing the ground
-Kicking their abdomen
-Stretching
Reduced or no passing of droppings
Lack of interest in food
How to prevent equine colic
-Maintain a feeding routine โ do not suddenly change the feed and always introduce new feed gradually
-Ensure your horse always has access to fresh, clean water
-Have a targeted worming plan based on risk and testing
-Book regular dental checks - at least once a year - with your vet or qualified equine dental technician
-Maintain regular exercise which includes turn out or ridden/in-hand exercise
Please call us immediately on 01258 452626 if your horse has any of these signs!โ๐
Celebration of the Horse Day โ Monday 15th July
Whether you're a seasoned equestrian or simply adore these beautiful creatures from afar, today is all about honouring their grace, strength, and the incredible bond we share with them.
Let's see your beautiful horses! Drop your photos in the comments below.
Laminitis risk checker
With the typical British summer weather we are experiencing, we are seeing an increase in horses suffering with Laminitis.
Laminitis is a painful and potentially debilitating condition in horses that affects the tissues connecting the hoof wall to the pedal bone and it must be taken seriously.
Early detection and proactive management are crucial in mitigating the risks associated with laminitis.
Here's a handy video guide to performing a laminitis risk check.๐๐ฑ
Summer hoof care 101 - with summer comes dry, cracked hooves!
Summer can bring its own set of challenges for horses, especially when it comes to dealing with hard ground conditions. Here is a video with some tips to help mitigate problems caused by hard ground during the summer.๐โ
What factors increase the risk of your horse getting equine gastric ulcers (EGUS)?
EGUS describes the erosion of the horseโs stomach lining, due to prolonged exposure to the acid produced by the stomach and is reported to affect at least 1 in 3 equines.
If you are worried your horse may have EGUS, a gastroscopy can provide a definitive answer as to whether your horse is suffering from gastric ulcers. Give the practice a call on 01258 452626 if you would like to discuss this.๐
As we gallop into a brand-new year, we want to express our heartfelt gratitude for entrusting us with the care of your horses.
May the coming year bring you and your horses an abundance of good health, boundless joy, and wonderful adventures. ๐๐
WINNER! We have a winner Claire Kellaway please contact the practice to collect your prize. ๐คถ๐ป๐
There are benefits to your horse when giving them time off.
Breaks in your horse's routine can help to aid in physical recovery and injury prevention, as well as support their mental well-being, ultimately contributing to a healthier and happier horse. ๐ฅฐ
The video below includes some key advantages:
Ageing gracefully: Top tips on caring for your senior horse
Caring for a senior horse requires special attention and understanding, as they may have special requirements to maintain their health and wellbeing. Here are some top tips to ensure your senior horse enjoys a comfortable and happy life:
Recycle Week Sep 19-25
As part of the equestrian community, we all need to come together and raise awareness of "Recycle Week" in an effort to promote sustainability, reduce waste, and minimise our ecological footprint.
Don't forget to also recycle at home
Early firework Preparation for your horse: Ensuring safety and comfort
Fireworks are an integral part of various celebrations and events, but their loud noises and bright flashes can cause stress and anxiety in horses. It is crucial to take proactive measures to ensure the wellbeing of your horse during firework displays. Early preparation and training can significantly reduce the negative impact of fireworks on horses and create a more comfortable environment for them.
Speak to your vet as early as possible as they can help you to prepare to keep your horse safer during firework season.
Is your horse autumn ready?
As the vibrant colours of summer fade and the crispness of autumn fills the air, it's important to ensure that your horse is
prepared for the seasonal changes.
Here is a video with some advice to ensure your horse is ready for autumn.
Signs that autumn is on its way
Autumn will soon be knocking at our stable doors, ready to paint our surroundings in breath-taking shades of gold and orange. It's time for horse
owners to get ready to relish in the beauty and charm this season brings!
Here is a video with some positive signs for horse owners that autumn is on its way.
Managing Equine Cushing's Disease in autumn
Equine Cushingโs Disease, is a hormonal disorder and occurs when the pituitary gland malfunctions, leading to an overproduction of certain
hormones. This can result in a range of symptoms, including a long and curly coat, excessive sweating, increased thirst and urination, weight loss,
and a compromised immune system.
As autumn is soon to arrive, it's essential to pay extra attention to your horse with Cushingโs Disease. Here are a few tips to help manage their
condition during this season.
#EquineCushingsAwareness
Beating the Heat: Preventing Heat Stroke in Horses
As temperatures are set to continue to rise over the next few days, here is a video with some tips on how to avoid your horse getting heat stroke.
If you are worried your horse may be showing signs of heat stroke, then please to not hesitate to call us on 01258 452626
Are you ready for the competition season?
Now is the time to check!
Did you knowโฆ.
Being a horse vet carries the highest risk of injury of any civilian occupation in the UK.
That is why we have embraced safety for our whole veterinary team, by supplying all of them with a helmet.
It will now be a common occurrence to see our team members wearing a helmet in the practice or when our vets are visiting patients on the road.
Please help us to stay safe as we examine and treat your horses ...and please bring your helmet too!
The healing power of horses
Growing evidence suggests that the connection between a horse and human improves mental health.
1.Increases your physical activity
2.Provides companionship
3.Helps create a daily routine
4.Helps you to meet new people
5.Reduces anxiety
Mobile radiography: information for owners
We understand that Diagnostic Imaging is often essential to provide us with the answers we need to deliver a correct diagnosis. Whilst we offer mobile state of the art radiography, we need to ensure that we keep our customers, as safe as possible.
Radiography can be harmful if HSE rules are not adhered to. Therefore, we must always follow guidelines and regulations set out by the Health & Safety Executive. These points will hopefully help you to understand these.