Harbour Ridge Equine

03/21/2025

Foal’s First 24 Hours: What Every Owner Should Know! 🍼🐴

Bringing a new foal into the world is one of the most exciting moments for any breeder or horse owner, but those first 24 hours are critical for ensuring a healthy start to life. Knowing what’s normal and when to call the vet can make all the difference in your foal’s long-term health and development!

Key Milestones in the First 24 Hours:
✔ Standing within 1-2 hours – A strong, healthy foal should make multiple attempts to stand soon after birth.
✔ Nursing within 2-3 hours – Colostrum is crucial for building immunity and providing essential nutrients.
✔ Passing first manure (meconium) within 12 hours – Delayed passage can lead to discomfort and serious complications.
✔ Bright, alert, and responsive – The foal should be active, aware of its surroundings, and bonding with the mare.

Warning Signs – When to Call the Vet:
🔹 Struggling to stand or delayed nursing – Failure to nurse quickly can lead to a weakened immune system.
🔹 No manure passed or signs of discomfort – Meconium impaction can cause colic-like symptoms and needs immediate attention.
🔹 Weakness, lethargy, or trouble breathing – Could indicate infection, oxygen deprivation, or a congenital issue.
🔹 The mare rejecting the foal – Lack of bonding or aggression towards the foal requires intervention.

Why a Newborn Foal Exam is Essential
Even if everything seems perfect, a newborn wellness exam is highly recommended. Your vet will check for:
🔹 Normal heart and lung function
🔹 Signs of congenital defects
🔹 Proper nursing and digestion
🔹 The mare’s postpartum recovery
🔹 A blood draw to check IgG and CBC -the IgG levels confirm that the foal has consumed adequate amounts of colostrum, which is cruical for the foals immune system

The first few hours set the foundation for your foal’s future health and performance. A thorough veterinary check ensures they get the best possible start in life!

03/20/2025

After a long day of caring for horses, there’s nothing better than a little reminder that we’re exactly where we’re meant to be. 🌈✨

Our Harbour Ridge Equine trucks travel miles every day, bringing expert care, compassion, and dedication to every barn we visit. Seeing this rainbow at the end of the day feels like a sign—of hard work paying off, of the trust our clients place in us, and of the bright future ahead.

Here’s to more good days, healthy horses, and beautiful moments like this! 💙🐴

03/19/2025

The Importance of Routine Lameness Evaluations for Sport Horses 🏇
Lameness can start subtly, often showing up before a horse ever becomes visibly lame. That’s why routine lameness evaluations are essential for keeping performance horses sound, comfortable, and performing at their best.

Why Are Routine Lameness Exams Important?
✅ Early Detection = Faster Recovery – Identifying minor issues before they escalate helps prevent long-term damage.
✅ Improved Performance – Subtle asymmetries, stiffness, or resistance under saddle could indicate an underlying issue.
✅ Customized Treatment Plans – Catching small problems early means treatment options like chiropractic care, joint support, or rehab can be implemented before other interventions are needed.
✅ Extended Athletic Career – Proactive care helps protect joints, soft tissue, and overall longevity in the sport.

What Happens During a Lameness Exam?
🔍 Static Exam – Assessing joints, muscles, and movement
🏇 Dynamic Exam – Observing movement on straight lines, circles, and different surfaces
🐴 Flexion Tests – Checking joint flexibility and response
📸 Diagnostic nerve or joint blocks, x-rays, or ultrasounds to pinpoint issues.

If you have a performance horse in regular work, lameness evaluations should be part of your routine veterinary care—even if your horse isn’t showing obvious signs of discomfort.

Schedule an appointment today to ensure your equine athlete stays in peak condition!

https://harbourridgeequine.com
(561) 744-9026

03/18/2025

🌟 Staff Spotlight: Megan! 🌟

Meet Megan, one of our dedicated and talented vet techs who has been a part of the Harbour Ridge Equine team since April 2023! From assisting with patient care to keeping our team organized and efficient, Megan is always ready to lend a helping hand wherever she’s needed. 🐴✨

She’s known for her creativity and quick thinking, which not only makes her a great problem-solver in the clinic but also helps bring our social media to life—so if you’ve enjoyed our posts, Megan may have had a hand in them!

Fun Fact: When she’s not caring for horses, you’ll likely find her watching Formula 1 Racing 🏎️—because who doesn’t love a little speed and competition?

Her favorite part of being a vet tech? Always learning something new, working hands-on with horses, and being able to stay active throughout the day!

We’re so lucky to have Megan on our team, and we know our clients’ horses appreciate her just as much as we do! Drop a 🐴 in the comments to show Megan some love! 💙

03/17/2025

🍀 A good equine vet is like a four-leaf clover… hard to find and lucky to have! 🍀

At Harbour Ridge Equine, we know just how lucky we are to have an incredible team of veterinarians who go above and beyond for every horse in their care. Dr. Todd, Dr. Fullana, Dr. Rogers, and Dr. Gallina bring their expertise, compassion, and dedication to every appointment—whether it’s a routine checkup, an emergency call, or a complex treatment plan.

Their hard work ensures that your horses receive the best possible care, and we’re so grateful for the knowledge and kindness they bring to every barn they visit.

This St. Patrick’s Day, take a moment to thank the equine professionals who keep our horses feeling their best! 🍀💚 Send this to your horse's veterinarian to show them how lucky you and your horse are!

03/13/2025

Sheath Cleaning: DIY or Call the Vet?

Let’s be honest—sheath cleaning isn’t anyone’s favorite barn chore. But it’s an important part of gelding and stallion care! So, do you tackle it yourself or let your vet handle it?

If your horse is calm, you’re comfortable, and there are no signs of issues—you might be able to do a basic cleaning.

If your horse isn’t a fan, sedation is needed, or you suspect a ‘bean’ (aka a hidden lump of sm**ma that can cause discomfort), it’s best to call the vet. We can ensure a thorough, stress-free cleaning—so you don’t have to!

So tell us… are you Team DIY or Team Call-the-Vet? 👀 Drop your answer below! ⬇️

Need to schedule a sheath cleaning? We’ve got you covered—contact us today! 🩺🐴

(561) 744-9026
https://harbourridgeequine.com

03/10/2025

Work hard, ride harder! 💪🐴

Early mornings, late nights, and endless coffee refills—because everything we do is for our horses. Whether you're hustling at the office, grinding in the barn, or juggling it all, we see you! Here’s to the equestrians who put in the work so their horses can have the best life possible.

03/07/2025

Remember little Zoey, the adorable foal we welcomed last week? Well, Dr. Rogers stopped by to check in on Zoey and her amazing mom, Texi, and we’re happy to report that both are thriving!

One of the best parts of our job is getting to watch these little ones grow and ensuring they get the best start in life. We can’t wait to see Zoey continue to flourish!

03/06/2025

Pony snuggles or Dr. Gallina’s chiropractic appointment? Why not both! 🐴💕 Every session comes with a side of love and relaxation!

Regular adjustments can help with:
✔ Stiffness or resistance under saddle
✔ Asymmetry or uneven movement
✔ Chronic back, neck, or joint pain
✔ Overall performance and comfort

We are booking for Chiropractic Appointments!
Dr. Gallina is available for chiropractic sessions in Palm City, Wellington, Jupiter, Vero Beach, Ft. Pierce, and surrounding areas. Contact us today to schedule your horse’s adjustment and keep them feeling their best!

(561) 744-9026
https://harbourridgeequine.com

03/03/2025

Equine Endodontic Disease: What You Need to Know 🦷

Equine endodontic disease affects the pulp—the innermost, living tissue of a horse’s tooth—and can lead to pain, infection, and long-term complications if left untreated. This condition is commonly caused by dental fractures, tooth decay, periodontal disease, or infections at the tooth root (apical abscesses).

Signs your horse may have endodontic disease:
✔ Difficulty chewing or dropping food (quidding)
✔ Facial swelling or drainage from the jaw
✔ Bad breath (halitosis)
✔ Nasal discharge (if upper teeth are affected)
✔ Resistance to bit pressure or performance changes
✔ Weight loss in severe cases

Early detection is key to managing equine dental disease. If your horse is showing any of these symptoms, schedule a dental exam to ensure their comfort and well-being! 🏇📞 Contact us today to book your horse’s next dental check-up!

(561) 744-9026
https://harbourridgeequine.com

02/28/2025

🐴✨ We're welcoming Zoey to our Foal Friday lineup! ✨🐴

Say hello to Zoey, our second foal of 2025! 🚖 This little one has already stolen our hearts with their adorable presence and curious personality. Watching new life enter the world is always magical, and we’re thrilled to share these special moments with you.

Foaling season is in full swing, and we can’t wait to see Zoey grow into a strong and healthy young horse! Stay tuned for more Foal Friday updates! 💙

02/27/2025

Is Your Horse Covered for Colic Reimbursement? 🐴🩺

If your horse is enrolled in a colic reimbursement program like Platinum Performance Colic Coverage, SmartPak ColiCare, or Arenus Colic Assurance Program, now is the time to make sure all requirements are up to date! ✅

These programs offer financial reimbursement for colic surgery, but they also require routine veterinary care to ensure your horse stays as healthy as possible. Don’t wait until it’s too late—double-check that your horse meets the following veterinary care requirements:

🔹 Annual Wellness Exam performed by a licensed veterinarian
🔹 Veterinary-Directed Deworming Program to manage parasite control
🔹 Veterinarian-Administered Vaccination Program to protect against preventable diseases
🔹 Annual Dental Exam to ensure proper chewing and digestion

Why is this important?
Regular veterinary care is key to preventing colic and catching potential health issues before they become serious. Keeping up with these requirements means your horse is covered and receiving the best proactive care possible.

If your horse is due for any of these services, schedule your appointment with us today! Let’s keep your horse healthy, covered, and thriving.

📞 Call us to book your horse’s wellness exam, dental, vaccinations, or deworming program today!

https://harbourridgeequine.com
(561) 744-9026

02/26/2025

Staff Spotlight: Madeleine!

We’re excited to shine the spotlight on one of our incredible vet techs, Madeleine, who plays a vital role in keeping our team running smoothly and ensuring the best care for our equine patients! 🐴💙

✨ Part of the HRE team since: August 2022
Madeleine joined our Harbour Ridge Equine family over a year ago, bringing her skills, patience, and passion for equine health to every appointment.

✨ What she does best:
Madeleine is a pro at keeping her veterinarian organized and on time, ensuring that each appointment runs seamlessly. She’s also an incredible teacher—her patience and clear communication make her the perfect mentor for new technicians learning the ropes. Whether it’s training new team members or assisting in complex procedures, she’s always there with a helping hand.

✨ Fun Fact:
Madeleine was born in England and grew up riding fluffy English Cob horses! 🇬🇧🐴 Her love for animals led her to pursue a Master’s degree in Animal Science, giving her a deep understanding of equine health and behavior.

✨ Why she loves her job:
For Madeleine, the most rewarding part of her job is being part of a team that is dedicated to providing top-notch care for horses. She thrives in the fast-paced environment and enjoys making a difference in the lives of both horses and their owners.

Madeleine’s dedication, expertise, and positive attitude make her an essential part of our team. We’re so lucky to have her at Harbour Ridge Equine! Next time you see her out on calls, be sure to say hi and thank her for all the hard work she puts in every day! 👋💙

02/14/2025

02/12/2025

In honor of National 💩 Day, when was the last time your horse had a f***l test done?

Deworming isn’t a one-size-fits-all approach! Performing a f***l egg count (FEC) test is the best way to determine if your horse actually needs deworming and which parasites need to be targeted. Overusing dewormers can lead to parasite resistance, making treatments less effective over time.

🔬 Why F***l Testing Matters:
✅ Identifies parasite load
✅ Helps prevent drug resistance
✅ Ensures deworming is necessary & effective
✅ Saves money by avoiding unnecessary deworming

💡 How Often Should You Test?
📌 Twice a year (spring & fall) for most horses
📌 More frequently for high shedders, young horses, or those at higher risk

📅 Time to Check?
If it’s been a while since your horse’s last f***l test, now is the time to schedule one! Call us today to book your horse’s FEC and get a deworming plan tailored to their needs. 🐴✨

📞 (561) 744-9026
https://harbourridgeequine.com

02/10/2025

Equestrians are so simple, right?! 😂

02/07/2025

🌟 It’s Foal Friday and we’re kicking off 2025 in the best way possible – with our first foal of the year! This little one has already stolen our hearts and is thriving under the watchful eye of their amazing mama 🐴💕

02/06/2025

🦷 It’s Pet Dental Health Month! 🦷

Good dental health is essential for proper digestion, comfort, and performance. That’s why, in honor of Pet Dental Health Month, we’re kicking off a weekly series on equine dentistry! Each week, we’ll share valuable insights on keeping your horse’s teeth healthy, common dental issues, and why regular exams are so important.

Horses’ teeth are constantly growing throughout their lifetime to compensate for the natural wear and tear from chewing. They start with long tooth roots that gradually shorten with age, making their teeth a great indicator of how old they are. Fun fact: a horse’s teeth take up more space in their head than their brain!

Book Your Horse’s Dental Exam Today!
Routine dental care helps prevent painful conditions and ensures your horse stays happy and healthy. Call us today to schedule your horse’s next dental checkup! 🐴✨

(561) 744-9026
https://harbourridgeequine.com