Knevel Veterinary Services

01/08/2025

Is your horse’s nighttime vision better than your daytime vision?

When comparing equine vision to human vision, the horse has a smaller visible spectrum (see image) which means they see a smaller range of colors than we do. However, horses have a structure in the back of their eye—called the tapetum lucidum—that humans do not have. This enhances vision in low light conditions and allows a horse to see better in the dark than a human does. However, reflections from the tapetum lucidum can also blur images and lead to poor depth perception at night.

Dilation of the pupil allows all species to see better in the dark. This process takes longer in a horse (45 minutes) than it does in humans (25 minutes). So, when a horse is asked to do something in a dark environment, it’s important to allow their vision proper time to fully accommodate.

Overall, the nighttime vision of a horse is better than the nighttime vision of a human. However, the horse’s nighttime vision is NOT better than the daytime vision of a human. Anytime you are asking your horse to function in a dim light situation, give them time to adjust. And if they are fearful, be patient and try to understand how things look from their perspective!
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Brought to you by the AAEP Horse Owner Education Committee

01/07/2025

A reminder that 2025 wall calendars are still available! Let me know if you'd like to pick one up, or I can drop one off at your farm during an upcoming appointment!

01/03/2025

This is a good reminder for those using blankets!

As blanket season is in full force upon us, here is a very important reminder courtesy of the horse doctors at Miamitown Equine Veterinary Services:

"When securing blankets, make sure that the snaps/clips are facing inward, toward the horse! If they are facing out, they can easily become stuck on something, like the hay net in the picture."

12/25/2024

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year! 🎄❤️

11/19/2024

As the temperature drops, use these tips to make sure your horse stays well hydrated.

11/12/2024

A dilemma as old as time... to blanket or not to blanket? Unfortunately, there isn't a one-size-fits-all solution. Whether your horse needs a blanket during the winter months depends on many factors such as their coat, the weather and their living situation.

11/11/2024

Thank you to all Veterans for your service and sacrifice.

10/16/2024

Happy Veterinary Technician Appreciation Week to Erin! Thank you for all that you do!! 💜

09/15/2024

There are many types of internal parasites that may live inside a horse. Can you identify which one this is?​

Hint: This parasite lays eggs on a horse’s legs before eventually being ingested.​

To help prevent and manage unhealthy parasitic loads in your horse, work with ​your veterinarian.

09/09/2024

My assistant, Miss Dora Mae, keeping the vet truck safe 🥰💜

07/15/2024

We love horses everyday, but especially today on I Love Horses Day! How are you and your horse celebrating? Let us know in the comments below.

07/08/2024

Celebrating the hoof heroes of the equine world during National Farriers Week! Thank you for keeping our horse's hooves happy and healthy!

07/04/2024

Have a happy and safe Fourth of July!

07/02/2024

Friendly reminder on how you can help keep your horse calm during 4th of July fireworks.

🐴 Keep your routine as consistent as possible. Sometimes moving the horses to a different location or separating them from the herd can cause just as much fear.

🏡 If you plan to move your horses to a different location (or inside the barn), give them about a week to acclimate to the new surroundings.

👀 Check your paddock or stalls for possible issues, including uneven ground, sharp edges, and broken boards to try and limit potential injuries.

🎶 If your horse is housed inside, try playing soothing music or turn on fans to help drown out the noise from fireworks.

🌾 Try using a slow-feeder to divert the horse’s attention.

🎧 Some horses will tolerate ear plugs that can help reduce noise.

❌ Do not try to comfort your horse during the fireworks. It will be safer for you and your horse if you are not inside the paddock or stall.

👏 Start desensitizing your horse to loud noises. It might not help for this year, but may help in the future.

👩‍⚕️ If necessary, talk to your veterinarian about the possibility of a sedative. Keep in mind some of these products may be prohibited at some shows.

06/01/2024

Happy National Trails Day!

05/27/2024

On this Memorial Day, let's take a moment to honor and give thanks to the heroes who have given us the gift of freedom.