Gulf Coast Large Animal Clinic

06/26/2024

Did you know? Horses that have light-pigmented skin need protection against the sun during the summer! Their skin can become sunburned just like humans. Specific areas of concern are parts of their face or body with little to no hair, such as their nose. You can use sunscreen specifically made for horses or you can use human sunscreen made for sensitive skin.

06/07/2024

Happy Friday!

June is Equine Colic Awareness Month! The term "colic" is defined as a horse having pain in the abdomen, and there are several causes to this condition.

Attached below is an amazing article by Dr. Cohen at Texas A&M College of Veterinary Medicine & Biomedical Sciences regarding the term "colic", the signs of colic, prevention and helpful tips to keep your horse as comfortable as possible if they are colicking until you are able to be seen by a veterinarian (which should be ASAP).

Although horses have historically been known as working livestock, today they are often referred to as companion animals. More and more people are seeking

05/30/2024

As the dreadful heat of summer begins, make sure to monitor your horses' sweating ability! Some horses have difficulty sweating, a condition known as "anhidrosis", which makes it difficult for them to regulate their body temperature in the heat. Check out the article below from Platinum Performance, a company founded by a veterinarian that specializes in equine health, that discusses the signs of anhidrosis and possible treatment plans if your horse is experiencing this issue.

Sweat is the major mechanism for removing excess body heat from a horse. The degree to which a horse sweats depends on the activity. Read about equine hydration.

05/21/2024

For those of you who don't know, Dr. Knape and his wife, Cheryl, run a beautiful Bed and Breakfast on the same property as the farm and the vet clinic. Check out this video that encapsulates the beauty and history behind HarBet Lodge!

HarBet Lodge“What else do you have on this earth except the love of the Lord, love of the land, and the love of your family?”HistoryHarBet Lodge has a long h...

05/13/2024

Happy Monday! Did you know? Horses' teeth never stop growing, so they need to be filed down or "floated" approximately once a year to promote good oral health. If their teeth are not maintained at a proper length, it can cause issues with eating, performance, attitude, and overall health of the horse. If your horse is due for a teeth float, message or call and schedule an appointment with us today!

04/30/2024

Happy Tuesday and last day of April! They say April showers bring May flowers, and some of those flowers are potentially toxic for livestock. One of Texas A&M's Large Animal Veterinarians, Dr. Easterwood, has an article discussing toxic plants and signs to look for if you think your horse has ingested one of the plants. The link is listed below:

Keeping your pet safe from harmful food or plants is an important part in every pet care routine. That’s why Dr. Leslie Easterwood, clinical assistant

04/15/2024

Happy Monday!

As mare breeding season is upon us, don’t forget to have your pregnant mare vaccinated with Pneumabort-K at their 5th, 7th, and 9th month of pregnancy. The Pneumabort-K vaccination helps prevent the mare from aborting her foal due to Herpesvirus Type 1, as well as help prevent respiratory diseases caused by the Herpesvirus.

Everyone have a great week!

04/05/2024

Good morning everyone and happy Friday! We're excited to launch our new official page to share information and experiences with our amazing clients. Since this page is new, we're going to start off by introducing the clinic staff:

Dr. Gregg Knape (far right): Dr. Knape is our one and only veterinarian at Gulf Coast Large Animal Clinic! He graduated from Texas A&M University in 1976 with a degree in veterinary medicine specializing in farm animals. After graduation, he practiced in Nacogdoches, Texas for five years before returning to Alvin to open Gulf Coast Large Animal Clinic in 1983.

Cheryl Knape (to the left of Dr. Knape): Cheryl is Dr. Knape's high school sweetheart and they have been married for nearly 48 years. She has done just about every job at the clinic and serves as the practice manager!

Gary (far left): Gary has been with the Knapes since the beginning and is the veterinarian technician "extraordinaire". He is Dr. Knape's right-hand man and deals with most of our cattle patients.

Rachel (second from the left): Rachel is a veterinarian technician and has worked at the clinic for over a year. She is also cross-trained to make appointments and work the front desk!

Alyson (middle): Alyson runs the front desk while occasionally working as a vet tech. She has worked for the clinic a little over two years now!