Yearly physical examinations are a common routine in human medicine but are
less so in veterinary medicine. We believe at The Equine Center, yearly or more
(if indicated) physical examinations are very important to your horse’s health,
well-being, and longevity. The reason for a yearly physical examination is to
promote the health of your horse. A yearly health visit should include vaccines,
dentistry, nutritional counseling, and treatment plans. Horses are living longer
than ever and new medical problems are likely to occur so these examinations are
key to heading off serious problems in the future.
As an owner, you are an important part of the physical examination process,
since you know your horse the best! If you notice changes in your horse, both subtle and blatant, we can discuss them. A plan can be made to proceed
forward from there. For instance, a slight or sudden change in the way your
horse sheds out in spring or summer can be an early indication of a hormonal
problem. Some hormonal problems, if unchecked, can lead to obesity, laminitis,
decreased immune function, seizures and even death (i.e.Equine Cushings
syndrome).
Diet and exercise are important components of the physical examination
discussion. In California, some unique feeding problems exist; sand which can
lead to colic, weight loss, diarrhea and also intestinal stones (enteroliths).
Numerous strategies to decrease the problems of sand ingestion and the
development of intestinal stones have been developed and can be shared with you on your
next visit.
A change in your horses’ exercise program may warrant a change in diet by either
decreasing or increasing caloric needs. There are many new feed products and supplements,
in addition to the usual hay and grain, which may benefit your horses’ new
exercise program. There are even feed products designed for horses with specific
health problems.
As always, your horse’s hooves are a very important factor in their overall
well-being. The old saying, "no hoof, no horse", still applies today as it did
in the Middle ages. Think about how you feel at the end of the day, when your
feet hurt. Hoof growth, shoe wear and shoeing angles impact not only the feet
but also the rest of the joints in the leg. Balancing your horses’ hooves
properly may decrease the chances of your horse developing an arthritic problem.
Routine evaluation of the feet and shoeing is as important as listening to your
horse’s heart.
Your horse’s vaccination schedule and needs can be adjusted depending on where
your horse lives and their job. Each horse is an individual and we at The Equine
Center strive to treat each horse as the unique characters they are. Please call
us to discuss the wellness programs that we are proud to offer
