Premier Equine Veterinary Service

03/03/2025

💳 CareCredit: A Smart Way to Manage Your Horse's Vet Bills 🐴✨

We all know how important it is to keep our horses healthy, but vet bills can sometimes be unexpected or overwhelming. If you’ve ever found yourself in need of financial flexibility for your horse’s care, CareCredit might be the solution you’ve been looking for!

Here’s how CareCredit can help:

What is CareCredit? 💡
CareCredit is a healthcare credit card that allows you to pay for your horse’s veterinary bills and other equine care expenses in manageable monthly installments. It’s accepted by many veterinarians, making it a great option for emergencies, routine care, or specialized treatments.

Flexible Payment Plans 💳
With CareCredit, you can choose from flexible financing options—whether you need to pay off your balance in a few months or over a longer period. This makes it easier to manage larger bills without the stress of paying all at once.

Quick and Easy to Apply ✅
Applying for CareCredit is simple and can often be done online or at your vet’s office. Many providers will help guide you through the process, and you’ll know right away if you’re approved.

Use It for Routine or Emergency Care 🚑
Whether your horse is due for a check-up, needs dental work, or has an emergency, CareCredit can help you cover those costs. It’s also great for more specialized treatments or surgeries that might not be covered by your regular insurance.

No Surprises 💬
CareCredit helps you avoid any surprises with your vet bills by allowing you to plan your payments. You won’t have to choose between your horse’s care and your finances—you can give your horse the best treatment while managing your budget.

🌟 Investing in Your Horse’s Health, Made Easy! 🌟
With CareCredit, you can ensure that your horse gets the care they need without the added stress of financial worry. It’s a convenient way to prioritize their health and well-being.

03/02/2025

🌟 Why the Red Bag is Crucial in Horse Breeding: What You Need to Know! 🌟

In the world of horse breeding, the red bag is a crucial indicator that every breeder should be aware of. It refers to a medical emergency that can occur during foaling and requires immediate attention.

🔴 What is the Red Bag? The term "red bag" describes a situation where the placenta detaches prematurely during labor. Normally, the placenta should stay attached until the foal is delivered, but in a red bag delivery, it comes out first, typically appearing as a red, thick bag.

💡 Why is it a Problem? The red bag is a warning sign that something isn't right. When the placenta detaches too early, the foal is deprived of oxygen and nutrients, leading to severe complications, including oxygen deprivation (hypoxia), or even stillbirth.

⚠️ How to Identify and Respond to a Red Bag Delivery:
-Look for a red, swollen mass protruding from the mare – this is the placenta, not the foal.
-Act quickly – If you see a red bag, don't wait for the mare to deliver naturally. You must intervene immediately by breaking the bag to allow the foal to breathe.

⏱️ Quick Action Can Save Lives:
-Gently tear the red bag to expose the foal.
-Make sure the foal's airway is clear.
-If you’re not experienced with assisting foaling, immediately call a vet. Time is critical.

🐴 Prevention & Awareness: While the red bag can't always be predicted, understanding its risks helps breeders act quickly to ensure both the mare and foal have the best chance of survival.

🔑 Key Takeaways:
-The red bag indicates an emergency situation during foaling.
-Immediate action is required to save the foal’s life.
-Always have a veterinary professional on call during breeding season.

Remember, your quick response can make all the difference! Stay informed, and always be prepared during foaling season. 💖🐴

02/28/2025

Why Horses Can’t Vomit – An Interesting Fact About Their Digestion! 🐴

Did you know that horses cannot vomit? It's true! Unlike humans and many other animals, horses have a one-way digestive system that prevents them from throwing up. Here's why:

-Strong Lower Esophageal Sphincter (LES): The muscles at the entrance to a horse's stomach are very strong, creating a tight seal. This sphincter only allows food to move in one direction – into the stomach – and prevents it from going back up.
-Stomach Anatomy: A horse’s stomach is relatively small compared to its body size, and it functions with continuous, slow digestion. This means their food is constantly moving through their system, and there’s no need to "clear out" anything by vomiting.
-Risk of Colic: Since horses can't vomit, any buildup or discomfort in the stomach can be dangerous. They are prone to colic (abdominal pain) if their digestive system becomes blocked, so it's important to feed them the right amount of food at the right times.
-Evolutionary Trait: Horses evolved to graze throughout the day, allowing their digestive system to work steadily. Their inability to vomit is part of this unique evolutionary design that keeps their digestion running smoothly – as long as they’re fed properly!

Understanding this can help us take better care of our horses and ensure their health. Always be mindful of their diet and seek help from a vet if you suspect any digestive issues. 🐴💡

02/26/2025

🎉 Our team of techs got to take a well-deserved break today and enjoy some fun and learning at Wisconsin Equine! 🐴✨ Huge thanks to Boehringer Ingelheim for hosting this fantastic event. It was a great opportunity for our team to expand their knowledge and have some fun in the process. We appreciate the chance to grow and learn in such a unique setting!

02/26/2025

🚨 Important Information for Horse Owners: Vaccinating Pregnant Mares with Pneumabort-K 🚨

If you're a breeder or own pregnant mares, ensuring their health and the safety of their foals is crucial. One vital step in protecting them is vaccinating with Pneumabort-K, a vaccine designed to prevent equine abortion caused by Equine Herpesvirus (EHV-1).

👉 Why is Pneumabort-K important? Equine Herpesvirus (EHV-1) can lead to abortion, neurological disease, and respiratory illness. Pregnant mares are particularly vulnerable, and the virus can cause abortion, especially in the later stages of pregnancy. Vaccination is key to minimizing the risk.

🦠 How does it work? Pneumabort-K works by stimulating the mare's immune system to produce antibodies against EHV-1, reducing the chances of the virus affecting the pregnancy. The vaccine is typically given during pregnancy at 5, 7, and 9 months of gestation.

✅ Key Benefits:

-Reduces the risk of abortion from EHV-1.
-Helps protect the foal in utero and after birth.
-Enhances the overall reproductive health of your mare.

Give us a call today to discuss the best vaccination schedule for your mares and ensure they’re protected during pregnancy! 🐴💉

02/25/2025

🦄🐴 Understanding Navicular in Horses: What Every Horse Owner Should Know 🐴🦄

As horse owners, it's important to be aware of the various health conditions that can affect our equine companions. One such condition is navicular disease, which affects the navicular bone in a horse's foot.

🔍 What is Navicular Disease? Navicular disease is a degenerative condition that affects the navicular bone and the surrounding structures in the hoof. It’s most commonly seen in older horses and can lead to chronic lameness, especially in the front feet.

👀 Signs to Watch For:
-Lameness, especially when trotting
-Shortened stride or reluctance to move
-Increased sensitivity or heat in the hoof
-Uneven wear on hooves

Causes and Risk Factors:
-Conformation issues (e.g., low heels, long toes)
-Poor hoof care or trimming
-Overuse or excessive strain

💡 Management and Treatment: While navicular disease can’t always be fully cured, there are ways to manage it. Regular hoof care, corrective shoeing, anti-inflammatory medications, and physical therapy can all help alleviate pain and improve mobility.

It's essential to catch the signs early, so always consult with a veterinarian or farrier if you suspect your horse may have navicular disease. 🐎

👉 Prevention is key! Regular check-ups and proper hoof care can help minimize the risks. Stay informed, and keep your horse happy and healthy! 💪

02/23/2025

🦄 Cushing’s Disease in Horses: What You Need to Know 🦄

Cushing’s Disease (PPID) is a common hormonal disorder in older horses. Recognizing the signs early can help with effective management!

🔍 Signs to Watch For:
⚠️ Excessive sweating & slow shedding
⚠️ Laminitis & hoof issues
⚠️ Increased drinking & urination
⚠️ Weight loss & muscle wasting
⚠️ Lethargy & poor performance

💡 Managing Cushing’s:
✅ Medication (Pergolide)
✅ Low-sugar, high-fiber diet
✅ Regular hoof & dental care

📅 If your horse shows these signs, contact us at 630-984-5221! Early intervention makes all the difference.

02/21/2025

🌟 Did you know? Horses can only breathe through their noses! 🌟

Unlike humans, horses don’t breathe through their mouths—they have a unique respiratory system that relies exclusively on their nasal passages. 🐴💨

Here’s why it matters:
-Nasal Anatomy: Horses have large, well-developed nostrils that are designed to filter, warm, and moisten the air they breathe before it reaches their lungs. This helps them take in the oxygen they need more efficiently.
-Efficient Breathing: Breathing through the nose helps prevent foreign particles like dust or debris from entering their lungs, which is essential for their overall respiratory health. Their nose acts like a built-in filter!
-Why They Can’t Breathe Through Their Mouth: A horse’s soft palate (the roof of the mouth) is positioned in such a way that it blocks airflow through the mouth. This means that they rely solely on their noses to regulate their breathing during activities like running, exercising, or even resting.
-Performance and Health: Because they can’t pant through their mouths like some animals, horses have to rely on controlled breathing through their nose to cool off and manage exertion levels. This makes their nasal passages even more important for maintaining health and stamina.

Next time you're near a horse, pay attention to how they breathe—it's a reminder of how specialized their body is for survival! 🌿🐴

02/20/2025

🐴 Don't Forget to Enroll Your Horse in Our Wellness Packages! 🐴

Give your horse the care they deserve with our Wellness Packages, designed to keep them healthy year-round! ✅ Routine check-ups, ✅ Vaccinations, ✅ Dental care, and more—all in one convenient plan.

📌 Sign up today! Visit premierequinevetservice.com for details.

02/18/2025

🌸🐴 Breeding Season is Here! Are You Ready? 🐴🌸

Breeding season is an exciting time, but preparation is key! Now is the time to ensure your mares and stallions are in peak condition for a successful season.

✅ Pre-breeding exams
✅ Nutrition & health checks
✅ Vaccinations & deworming

📅 Schedule your vet visit today by calling 630-984-5221 and set your breeding program up for success!

02/16/2025

🧣 Should You Blanket Your Horse? 🧣

As temperatures drop, many horse owners wonder if blanketing is necessary. Here’s a quick guide:

✅ Blanket if: It's wet, windy, or below 30°F, or if your horse is old, young, clipped, or underweight.
❌ Skip the blanket if: Your horse has a thick coat, access to shelter, or temps are mild—over-blanketing can cause overheating!

Every horse is different—know their needs! ❄️

02/14/2025

💘🐴 Happy Valentine’s Day from Donut! 🐴💘

Sending you all love, nickers, and maybe a little hay this Valentine’s Day! 💕 Donut hopes your day is filled with treats, warm cuddles, and happy hearts.

Drop a ❤️ if you love horses as much as Donut does!

02/12/2025

❄️ How Horses Stay Warm in Winter: The Magic of Their Coat ❄️

As the temperature drops, horses have an incredible natural ability to stay warm: their hair! Here’s how it works:
-The Coat Grows Thicker: In colder months, horses grow a thicker, longer winter coat made up of more hair follicles. This helps to trap air close to the skin, creating an insulating layer that keeps warmth in and cold out.
-Hair Stands Up: When a horse is cold, tiny muscles at the base of each hair follicle contract, causing the hair to stand up. This process is called "piloerection." The hairs create small pockets of air that act as a cushion, adding extra insulation and helping to keep the horse warm.
-Natural Heat Regulation: Horses are excellent at regulating their own body temperature. When it gets really cold, their bodies produce more energy to maintain warmth. If they get too warm, their hair lays flat to allow heat to escape.
-Self-Grooming: A horse will often groom itself to keep its coat in tip-top shape, helping it maintain that important insulating layer.

💡 Fun Fact: A healthy, well-groomed winter coat can be so effective that horses can often stay warm in freezing temperatures without needing blankets, as long as they’re dry and have shelter!

So, next time you see your horse's coat standing on end, know it’s their natural way of staying toasty in the winter months! 🌨️

02/11/2025

Are you foal-ready?

This Wednesday, join AAEP member veterinarians Drs. Chelsea Folmar & Taylor Huffman for a webinar discussion that will help you prepare for the foaling season. Learn how to create a foaling kit, the timeline of parturition (foaling), and how to recognize when veterinary intervention is needed.

Registration is FREE but required. A recording of the webinar will be available if you miss the live event.

Register here: https://events.zoom.us/ev/Ats8dN0E2JxrJYoBUPKU7BW_HtYcwxW988ZYvpWRruqNFu98_uws~AnoL_ZTlIx2iZDbk457AKzpEPWgwMyM1m36OoJWUUyiXJPOgKi4PHJJYdQ

This informative session is brought to you by the AAEP Horse Owner Education Committee.

02/11/2025

02/11/2025

🐴 Act Now for Your Horse’s Health! 🐴

Don't wait! Ensure your horse gets the best care with our Wellness Plan—covering essential veterinary services to keep them happy and healthy all year long.

✅ Preventative Care
✅ Vaccinations & Dental Exams
✅ Peace of Mind for You & Your Horse

🔹 Sign up today at premierequinevetservice.com and give your horse the care they deserve!

02/10/2025

RESCHEDULED!! Due to the upcoming weather we have decided to move our talk to next week.
Here's the updated Facebook post:

🌟 Join Us for an Equine Wellness Talk! 🌟

🐴 Topic: Equine Spring Wellness & Routine Care
🗓 New Date: Wednesday, February 19th
🕒 Time: 5:30 PM
📍 Location: 16935 West Bruce Road, Lockport, IL 60441

We are excited to have Dr. Katie Coleman discuss the essentials of maintaining your horse's health and wellness as we head into the spring season! Learn valuable tips on routine care and how to keep your equine companions feeling their best.

🎉 Raffle Alert! 🎉
One lucky attendee will win a FREE equine dental exam (sedation not included)! Don't miss out on this amazing opportunity.

Mark your calendars, bring your friends, and come enjoy a night full of great info and an exciting giveaway! We can’t wait to see you there. 🐴💚

02/04/2025

RESCHEDULED!!!

🌟 Join Us for an Equine Wellness Talk!🌟

🐴 Topic: Equine Spring Wellness & Routine Care
🗓 Date: Wednesday, February 19th
🕒 Time: 5:30 PM
📍 Location: 16935 West Bruce Road, Lockport, IL 60441

We are excited for Dr. Katie Coleman to discuss the essentials of maintaining your horse's health and wellness as we head into the spring season! Learn valuable tips on routine care and how to keep your equine companions feeling their best.

🎉 Raffle Alert! 🎉
One lucky attendee will win a FREE equine dental exam (sedation not included)! Don't miss out on this amazing opportunity.

Mark your calendars, bring your friends, and come enjoy a night full of great info and exciting giveaways! We can’t wait to see you there. 🐴💚