High Country Veterinary Services LLC

12/20/2024

Your horse is talking… are you listening? 🐴💬 These 3 tips will make you their favorite human this winter.

💡 Which one surprised you most? Tag a horse friend who needs to see this!

12/13/2024

Happy National Day of the Horse! Not that we need an excuse to celebrate the animals that we love so dearly. Make sure to give your horse all the treats, attention, and scratches that they deserve! Send us pictures of your special 4-legged friend for a chance to have them featured! Here is River showing off her stylish sunnies. 🐴🕶️

12/13/2024

Emergencies happen—are you prepared? Knowing how to spot the signs and act quickly could save your horse’s life.

Here are 3 common emergencies and what to do:
1️⃣ Colic: Call your vet immediately—time is critical!
2️⃣ Lameness: Don’t wait it out; sudden lameness needs attention.
3️⃣ Wounds: Clean it, apply an appropriate bandage, and schedule a visit to prevent infection.

💡 Pro Tip: Keep a stocked first-aid kit and your vet’s number saved for fast action.

📞 Need advice or an emergency check-up? Call us anytime—we’re here to help.

12/12/2024

Ever feel overwhelmed by horse care advice? 🐴 Don’t worry—you’re not alone! Here’s the truth: preventative care doesn’t have to be complicated. Here are a couple necessities when it comes to preventative care:

✔️ Routine vaccinations protect against life-threatening diseases.
✔️ Annual dental floats keep your horse chewing comfortably.

Still unsure? Call us today for a personalized plan to keep your horse happy and healthy.

12/07/2024

Are you falling for these common horse care myths?

🐴 Let’s bust them! Proper dental care, nutrition, and even sun protection are key to keeping your horse happy and healthy. Want personalized advice for your horse? Call us today! 💙

12/05/2024

Listen up ranchers of the Yampa Valley! The USDA has implemented a new rule as of November 5th, that cattle will be required to have electronic identification (EID) tags when transporting across state lines. Follow this link to find out which cattle qualify and how to obtain free EID tags from your state veterinarian. As always, call us if you have any questions!

The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) announced April 26 it will issue a final rule that mandates electronic identification (EID) tags for interstate movement of certain cattle and bison to prevent disease outbreaks.

12/04/2024

How is it already December!? Just a reminder that our clinic hours will be changing next week to our winter schedule, and we also will be closed for the holidays. As always we will still be available 24/7 for emergencies.

12/03/2024

If you are looking for an amazing equine welfare organization to donate to on Giving Tuesday, we encourage you to consider Equitarian Initiative! This nonprofit takes on the lofty goal to sustainably improve the health and welfare of working horses, donkeys, mules, and their families around the developing world.

An open love letter to our community:

Words can never fully express the depth of our gratitude. You are so much more than a supporter—you are the reason we exist. You give not only your resources, but your time, passion, and privilege—because you understand that at the root of the human experience, working animals are an essential part of our shared journey. More than companions or tools, they are the bridges between us and the progress we strive for. From carrying ribbons to carrying clean water, these animals unite us in ways that transcend borders, cultures, and language. They carry the weight of our burdens, share in our work, and elevate our collective spirit.

Through their service we are reminded that true progress is not just technological or economic—it is ethical, compassionate, and interconnected.

As we enter this season of giving, we celebrate YOU, our Equitarian Community. Thank you for teaching us to give without expectation, and to love without borders.

www.EquitarianInitiative.org/donate

11/28/2024

Happy Thanksgiving!

11/28/2024

Does winter turn your calm horse into a ball of energy? ❄️ Cold weather often brings extra pep to their step, but here’s how you can handle it safely:
✅ Let Them Move Freely: Before handling, allow your horse some free time in the paddock to burn off excess energy.
✅ Adjust Their Diet: Provide plenty of forage for warmth, but avoid overfeeding grain to prevent unnecessary energy spikes.

A little preparation goes a long way in keeping winter exercise safe and enjoyable for both you and your horse. 🐴❄️ How does your horse act in the cold? Let us know in the comments! 👇

11/26/2024

Slippery turnout areas during winter can be dangerous for your horse, increasing the risk of slips and injuries. 🧊 But with the right precautions, you can keep them safe and comfortable!

✅ Clear Ice: Regularly remove ice or add footing solutions like sand or gravel to high-traffic areas.
✅ Snow Pads & Studs: Equip your horse with snow pads or studs to improve traction and prevent ice buildup in hooves.

Safety starts with small steps—let’s make this winter turnout season stress-free for you and your horse. 🐴❄️ Want more tips? Call us or DM anytime!

11/25/2024

Heads up our winter hours are changing!!! Fridays we will have minimal office staffing, so if you plan to stop by please let us know by Thursday so we can assist you better. If you call on a Friday, our phone system will guide you based on your needs. Non-urgent messages may not be returned until the following Monday. ❄️❄️❄️

11/21/2024

Winter is a magical time to enjoy with your horse, but it also brings unique challenges! 🐴 Here are 5 must-know tips to keep your horse comfortable and healthy all season long:

1️⃣ Keep Water Unfrozen: Use heated buckets or troughs to ensure your horse stays hydrated—dehydration can lead to colic!
2️⃣ Extra Forage for Warmth: Adding hay to your horse’s diet helps generate internal heat, keeping them cozy from the inside out.
3️⃣ Check Under Blankets: Don’t let sweat or dampness go unnoticed—lift and check for comfort regularly.
4️⃣ Maintain Hoof Health: Clear ice buildup and consider snow pads to prevent slips on icy ground.
5️⃣ Fall Wellness Check: Winter puts extra strain on your horse, so be proactive with their health. Regular dental, deworming, and vaccinations keep them in peak condition!

Who’s ready for a snowy season with their four-legged friend? Drop a ❄️ if you’re prepared!

11/18/2024

Congrats on an incredible accomplishment Cregan Ortner and Chase!!!

Cregan Ortner of Steamboat Springs and her horse Big Medicine (aka Chase) are the Champions of the USHJA Adult Affiliate .80 Meter Jumper Division at the US Hunter Jumper Association Championship show in Las Vegas this weekend. Not only was she the champion of the division but she also took first place in each of her classes, beating competitors from all around the US. And she did it on her birthday on Saturday.

Photo courtesy of Ryan Scott.

11/14/2024

Horse scared of needles?

If vaccination day turns your normally sweet and cooperative riding buddy into a fire breathing dragon, we have great news - this is an easy problem to fix!
1️⃣ Find your horse’s favorite reward.
2️⃣ Take a deep breath.
3️⃣ Start by touching his neck.
4️⃣ Apply a little pressure.
5️⃣ STOP

If your horse could use some help conquering their needle phobia, please let us know at your next appointment and we’re happy to show you these steps in person!

11/08/2024

Did you know hydration is just as important in winter as it is in summer? 🥶 Horses are prone to dehydration in cold weather, so here’s what to check:
💧 Water Temperature: Use heated buckets or trough heaters to prevent freezing.
🍂 Encourage Drinking: Adding electrolytes or a pinch of salt to feed can help stimulate thirst.
🌡️ Check Daily: Monitor water access, as ice can quickly form in subzero temps.

Winter hydration helps prevent impaction colic and keeps your horse healthy all season long. ❄️

11/06/2024

Did you know dental care is key to your horse’s winter health? 🐴 With higher calorie needs in cold weather, smooth teeth make it easier for horses to chew, digest, and absorb nutrients from their feed. Here’s why a dental float before winter is so important:
1️⃣ Efficient Chewing: Reduces feed waste and ensures they’re getting the calories needed to stay warm.
2️⃣ Prevents Weight Loss: Pain from sharp points can lead to reduced eating, making weight maintenance tough.
3️⃣ Better Digestion: Properly chewed forage aids digestion, reducing the risk of colic.

Make sure your horse’s mouth is winter-ready—call us to schedule a dental float today! 🦷❄️