Corrective shoeing has become a blanket term to refer to many different aspects of shoeing. These practices can address a wide range of issues adversely affecting the gait, stride, and overall movement of a horse. High Caliber Performance Veterinary Sports Medicine is proud to offer radiographs and a chance to work with your farrier for the best approach to your horse’s shoeing needs.
Spring is a beautiful season with fresh blooms and green pastures. However, spring pastures can be a dangerous time for horses. With the arrival of lush green grass in springtime comes the risk of founder, a progressive form of laminitis. Protecting your horse from founder is crucial to avoid further health complications.
We understand that horses can face challenges with drinking enough water daily as our season warms from spring into summer. Knowing how to tell if your horse is dehydrated year-round is a core part of equine care, especially during extreme temperature changes. The temperature can rise or drop as weather systems push in. These dramatic changes also commonly follow barometric changes in the weather.
If you are a conscientious horse owner, you likely make an effort to provide the best possible care for your equine friend. You ensure your horse receives proper nutrition, regular exercise, is groomed frequently, and receives proper veterinary care. However, one crucial aspect of health that is commonly overlooked but essential for your horse’s well-being is dental care. Annual equine dental exams help keep a healthy mouth for your horse.
Horses frequently travel for different purposes, such as competitions, which can increase their chances of getting equine diseases like Strangles. Strangles is a severe illness for horses, with reported cases in the United States every year. Luckily, there have been no cases in Texas yet. Strangles is a highly contagious illness that once the disease is present it can live in the ground for years.
Routine vaccinations are part of being a responsible horse owner. This month we are focusing on West Nile virus. WNV is a mosquito-borne virus that affects humans and other animals, of which horses represent 96.9% of reported non-human cases. West Nile was first introduced to the United States in 1999, WNV is now found in most states in the United States.