Equine Health Management Y1 Flashcards
Health assessment observations?
Health assessment observations?
.Behaviour .Environment
.Temperature .Pulse
.Respiration .Mucous membranes
.Odour .Feet .Teeth .Skin
. Borborygmus (gut sounds)
- Too few = stasis/ colic
- Hypermotile = scouring, accompanied by a loose stool or
diarrhea.
From Week 1 theory
Healthy horse has?
Healthy horse has?
.An alert expression - ears should prick forward as you move towards them. Eyes won’t be half closed. Nostrils should be relaxed. Are aware you’re there.
.Eyes - should be clear (unless you know the horse is prone to eye discharge), moucous membrane under eyes should be pale salmon pink.
.Nostrils - no consistent discharge, abnormal colour of discharge.
.Coat - should be glossy which lies flat.
.Skin - loose skin which moves easily across the underlying bones.
.Equal weight - distribution on each leg. No raising/ pointing front feet.
.Legs - cool with no unusual swelling.
.Sweating - no obvious sweating
.Urine - oraque pale yellow or colourless urine.
.Droppings - being passed several times a day.
From Week 1 theory
Exam areas to look for in practical?
Exam areas to look for in practical?
.Alertness
-horse aware of surroundings
-Head over door, alert forward and relaxed? Not anxious (very alert), depressed (ears not forward when approached), flank watching (stomach pain/ colic), pawing (excitement when feeding or for no reason colic)
.Feeding
-eating immediately
-do go off food when fitter or covering (breeding).
.Drinking
-note alteration of regular drinking patterns, if bed wet with urine - too much or too little being consumed (cushing or diabetes).
-PPID (Cushing’s)
-abnormal smell (too much protein in diet)
.Posture
-should stand square i.e. injury or illness
-abnormal recumbency (make them feel better when ill).
-bedding in coat/ mane/ tail- indicates lying down.
.Pick up and look at feet (MUST exam).
.Safety protocols must be done when examining horse
From Week 1 theory
Pulse?
Pulse?
.Adult horse at rest = 36 - 42bpm
.Higher in smaller younger animals
.Lower in older larger animals
.Increase in fear – 100bpm
.Increases in late pregnancy
.Exercise – fast work – 200-240 bpm in fit horses this should drop rapidly
.Increases with temp/fever
.Character varies with heart disease
.Pastern – laminitis pulse – bounding digital pulse
.Average 30-34 in a semi fit horse
.More fit the horse the lower the pulse
.Affected by: exercise, environment, excitement, disease, physical condition and age
.Pulse rates higher than 80bpm for a prolonged period of time may indicate colic
.Expect high HR in exercising horses – WHY – measure with a HR monitor
.With colic – Frank Andrews prof at university of Tennessee has noted the following:
'’90% survival rate if a colicky horse has HR below 60bpm
Between 60-80 horse has a 50% likelihood of survival
80-100bpm horse only has a 25% chance of survival
HR exceeding 100bpm is correlated with only a 10% survival rate’’.
From Week 1 theory
Respiration?
Respiration?
Watch breath
Stand at shoulder and watch respiratory effort
1 = in & out
How many breaths/minute
8-14
Decreases when asleep
Increases with fever
Hyperthermia – panting and flaring nostrils, heaving sides
Inhalation and exhalation 10-14 breaths/minute
Exercise, high env. Temps, high humidity, excitement, pain and illness will inc. resp. rates
Sound and patterns of resp. – should be steady and effortless, producing little noise.
Irregular, shallow, laboured or noisy respiratory patterns can signify exhaustion or illness
Laboured breathing may indicate shock
Call a vet!
Can also watch for nostril flares – inaccurate –why, should not flare when horse at rest?
Also expansions of the rib cage or flank
Video = http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1Ssx8KIrts8
From Week 1 theory
Posture Abnormalities?
Posture Abnormalities?
Sitting on the wall
Indication of foot pain or irritation around anus
Head pressing
Liver disease, depression
Sign of colic or azoturia / ERS
Learned helplessness in environment
Attempting to strain
May indicate urine blockage (more common in geldings – calcium buildup
Unusual habits for that horse – remember every horse is an individual
Head-pressing is very bad – may be a sign of colic or azoturia – other names?, also worst behaviour to see in helpless horses that cannot cope with their environment
75-80% lameness is in the foot
Straining is more commonly seen in geldings, rare, may be due to a calcium buildup
Pointing front feet
Navicular syndrome, pus in the foot
Rocking back on the feet – laminitis
Acute navicular syndrome
75-80% lameness in the foot
No foot? No Horse!
From Week 1 theory
Environment
Environment
Disturbed
May indicate colic, box walking
Pattern?
Scratch marks on wall
May indicate horse has been cast
Chew marks
Deficiency in diet, bad stable management, stereotypies
Evidence of having eaten, drank
Disturbed bedding, circular patterns may indicate box walking
Scattered bed, eaten bed – eg Rocket – pacing, playing, hungry
From Week 1 theory
Skin
Skin
Good indicator of health
Coat
-Should be shiny, smooth and slightly greasy to touch
-Dull, staring, and dry indicates general ill health
-Pinch test – skin should return immediately. Indicates dehydration or rapid weight loss if remains peaked.
Sweating
-Pain, fever, overheating
-Spots, nodules and tumours
Dull coat or a pot belly could indicate worms
Colic and diarrhoea can dehydrate horses, especially foal scours
restricting a horse’s water intake for as little as two hours greatly increases the chance of colic
Horse is 70% water
Should have access to clean fresh water at all times
Horses drink around 45 litres of water a day and this can increase by up to 40% during warm weather.
Water is vital for fluid balance, tolerance for exercise and also helps digestion
Other signs of dehydration or heat stress include sunken eyes, a tucked up appearance, heavy breathing and a rapid pulse.
Dehydration can be caused by lack of fluid intake, fever, diarrhoea, sweating, blood loss and urination
From Week 1 theory
Temperature
Temperature
Normal temperature ranges:
Adult horse
99.0 -100.5 °F
37.2-38.2 °C (sometimes as low as 36.5°C)
Foal
99.0 – 101.5 °F
37.5 – 38.6 °C
Higher or lower monitor and seek vet advice if not better
Internal body temp falls in a narrow range
Only a few degrees diff will indicate a problem
Higher in foals and younger horses – WHY? (foals cannot regulate their body temperature well, need proper protection against the weather/environmental conditions)– more influenced by ambient temps, and will vary more
Foal is considered hypothermic if the temp drops below 99°F, most newborn foals will not shiver due to the body’s inability to respond properly to the outside temperature. Similarly foals can easily become hyperthermic if their temperatutre rises above 103°F. They become heat stressed without shade and will hyperventilate to blow off extra heat, because the newborn does not reguate its temperature well it does not sweat in response to hot outside temperatures.
Env. Temp, exercise and excitement may increase body temp
Smaller, younger horses and active horses will have higher temps
Older, more sedentary animals have lower temps
Diurnal variation
Temp lowest at 3am, peaks at 6pm
Take temp at same time every day
Diurnal – daily variation – variation within the day
Insert thermometer into rectum
If possible, have an assistant
Stand tight to the horse’s quarters
Lubricate thermometer and hold against rectal mucosa
Hang on to the thermometer!!
Depending on the type of thermometer, leave in for 30-90 secs. – most modern ones will beep when they are ready to be removed
From Week 1 theory
Factors Influencing Temperature
Factors Influencing Temperature
.Internal body temp falls in a narrow range.
.Only a few degrees differencd will indicate a problem.
.Temperature higher in foals and younger horses. Foal considered hypothermic if the temp drops below 99°F. Foals can easily become hyperthermic if their temperature rises above 103°F.
.Environment, temp, exercise/ arousal may increase body temp.
.Internal body temp falls in a narrow range. Only a few degrees diff will indicate a problem.
From Week 1 theory
Temperature Variations
Temperature Variations
COLD
Reduction in temp – cold/hypothermia
Significant reduction in rectal temp potentially life threatening
Extremities normally become cold first when a horse is chilled
HOT
Moderate rise in temp - 1 °C mild fever – not generally a problem
Rise of up to 2 °C or over – call the vet
108 °F or 41 °C can lead to permanent brain damage - overheating
Low temps are indicative of shock, chilling or a very sick animal
Fevered foals will normally have a reduced temperature with an infection instead of a fever
Inc rectal temp may indicate disease, overheating, colic, if very high may lead to convulsions or death
From Week 1 theory
Equine pulse rate
Equine pulse rate
.How many beats per minute at rest?
-20 to 40bpm at rest
Assessed at:
-Most easily at angle of jaw
-Either side of pastern - feel for groove along the pastern.
-Inside the forearm
.Should measure pulse in a relaxed horse
.When measuring TPR you should take the pulse first before the horse becomes too excited
.Every heart beat pushes blood through arteries – these are what we are feeling to monitor pulse and effectively HR
Video = http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yFENXvYD5U0
From Week 1 theory
Equine respiratory rate
Equine respiratory rate
.Normal at rest - 8 to 16 bpm
.Double effort – heaves/COPD/RAO
.Heaves - display of a heave line, horse uses diaphragm and abdominal muscles
HIGH respiratory rate
-Less severe cases resp. rate of 20 or above.
-Up to 40/50 breaths/min = obstruction – gasping, choking, snot pouring out of nose – call the vet
From Week 1 theory
Recurrent Airway Obstruction (RAO)
Recurrent Airway Obstruction (RAO)
.Also known as Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disorder (COPD) or “broken wind” is a respiratory disease in horses. Also known as “heaves”.
.This is a chronic condition of horses involving an allergic bronchitis characterised by wheezing, coughing and laboured breathing.
.CAUSES - an allergic reaction to certain otherwise innocuous substances - allergens, typically dust and mold spores (e.g. Aspergillus spp.).
.It is therefore most common in horses fed on hay and bedded on straw.
.The condition is most common in the Northern Hemisphere - it is rare in the South. This is probably because northern horses are more likely to be overwintered in stables or barn, and therefore become sensitised more readily.
.NOTE: A similar condition, Summer Pasture Associated RAO also exists. In this case, the allergens are derived from fodder and pasture (pollen etc.). This is more common is summer, and management is reversed: horses should be stabled in well ventilated areas.
SYMPTOMS - Increased respiratory effort and shortness of breath, especially in response to strenuous exercise. In some cases, the horse may present acutely such that it really struggles to inspire sufficient air. This is a veterinary emergency.
In addition, a soft, moist cough may be seen, most commonly in association with exercise or eating. This cough may be productive, with thick, viscous sputum.
There may also be an audible wheeze.
In chronic cases a “heave line” may be visible on the ventral abdomen. This is caused by hypertrophy of the extrinsic respiratory muscles.
Treatment
As RAO is primarily a management condition, primary treatment is necessary. Where possible, the horse should be turned out to pasture. When removed from the allergens in the stable, the symptoms will usually subside, although they will recur if the horse is stabled again at a later date.
If this is not practical, certain alterations to stable routine may be effective.
Minimise dust and maximise air quality in the stable.
Soak hay or feed a low dust alternative such as haylage. The length of time to soak hay for the maximum benefit is debated; however, approximately 30 minutes appears to be the current consensus.
Feeding from the ground is oftenconsidered to be more beneficial than in a haynet, as this allows any mucous to drain out of the lungs.
Bed on a dust free bedding. Those horses that must continue to be stabled are normally bedded on paper, or a combination of rubber matting and paper, or low dust wood shavings. Straw contains dust and may irritate the condition further.
Make sure the stable is well ventilated.
Don’t muck out or brush up while your horse is in the stable to minimise the dust in the air.
Despite management changes, pharmacological intervention is often required, and almost invariably in severe cases. This breaks down into a number of categories: Bronchodilators: Often the mainstay of therapy. One of the most common is clenbuterol, either as an oral medication administered twice daily in feed, or via a nebulizer. Clenbuterol also has anti-inflammatory actions, and is therefore often preferred. In an emergency, intravenous clenbuterol or atropine may be used, but care must be exercised with atropine as it may predispose to adverse systemic side effects such as mydriasis (pupil dilation in the eye), excitement, GI stasis and colic.
Corticosteroids: Oral steroids such as prednisolone are commonly used; however, side effects are common, and the horse may be predisposed to laminitis. Therefore, the use of aerosolised steroids via an equine inhaler are becoming more common. This route of administration reduces the dose required, and the risk of side effects.
Mast cell stabilisers: Cromoglycate has been used, but this is may or may not be fully effective.
Care should be taken with these drugs in competition horses, as many of them are forbidden substances under racing and FEI rules.
For Pasture associated RAO depending on the allergen it may be controlled by Antihistamines such as Pititon and respiratory supplementation – menthol and Liquorice are the recommended ingredients by the vet
From Week 1 theory
Mucous Membranes
Mucous Membranes
.Capillary Refill Time - measuring the amount of blood volume circulating and the blood pressure. Measures the cardiovascular status of the horse. Colour salmon pink.
Abnormal MM colour
.Yellow– colic, constipation
.Very Yellow – jaundice
.Very White – shock or haemorrhage
.Brick Red – fever, post exercise
.Purple – cyanotic – seen in terminalcolic just before death
.Greater than 2 secs to refill indicates shock
.Purple/blue due to lack of oxygen in the blood – poor circulation, shock
.Yellow tinge reflects Jaundice, may be transient due to diminished appetite and food intake or a diet rich in alfalfa but it could be more lasting and serious as a result of liver disease
.Line body cavities open to the air – inside mouth, nostrils, eyelids, vagina, penis and sheath. Colour indicates quantity and condition of blood flowing to these areas. Be aware of lighting conditions – artificial lighting, dim, flashlights may distort true colour.
.Red Associated with septic or endotoxic shock when blood pools in the capillaries and small vessels.
Pale – white Indicates fever, blood loss, anemia and mild shock. Dehydration
“Performance horses, especially horses that work over extended time and distance, such as the endurance horse, not only contend with fluid shifts to demand tissues (such as heart and muscle for locomotion and brain and kidney for normal function), but they also must contend with fluid loss as sweat to maintain thermoregulation,” says Frazier.
He elaborates on what one might see with systemic changes as reflected in the mucous membranes: “The first aberration of the color of the mucous membranes as a horse dehydrates and/or responds to fluid shifts is a reddening of the mucous membranes above the tooth root with a corresponding paling of the rest of the tissue.” This is first seen on physical exam as a disparate color along the area where teeth meet gums and appears as a purplish or bluish tinge along the line of the teeth, with the membrane above appearing pale pink or normal pink.
Frazier explains the progression of circulatory compromise: “If these processes advance without compensatory adjustment, the mucous membranes will continue to pale, taking on a bluish tinge, and finally turn a purple, muddy color. Commonly, changes in mucous membrane color (paling) are accompanied by delay in the CRT of greater than one to two seconds. If dehydration and fluid shifts sufficiently compromise the perfusion of the cecum and/or large bowel, endotoxemia may affect the capillary beds and result in a ‘brick red’ color to the mucous membranes.”
Septic or endotoxic shock causes the peripheral vascular beds to open, with increased filling of blood in the capillaries and small vessels. As circulatory shock progresses, less oxygen is sent to the tissues, so the blood stagnates, loses its oxygen, and the membranes turn purplish or blue-tinged, then eventually turn to a muddy gray.
A horse suffering from systemic illness, such as gastrointestinal disease or colic, is at risk of deterioration of the circulatory system that is reflected by the character of the mucous membranes. Frank Andrews, DVM, MS, Dipl. ACVIM, a clinical professor at the University of Tennessee, has extensive experience with complicated colic cases referred to the Veterinary Teaching Hospital.
“If a colicky horse has pink or cyanotic (blue-tinged) mucous membranes, studies indicate that he has a greater likelihood of survival (55%), whereas a horse with toxic (gray or pale with dark red line at gum/teeth interface) or injected (dark red to ‘muddy’) mucous membrane color has a less likely chance of survival (44%),” notes Andrews. “This is not much of a statistical difference, but is more useful following surgery, when membrane color is better correlated with survival probability: If the color is pink after surgery, that horse will likely live.”
In determining the prognosis for survival in colic cases, Andrews reports that as a metabolic parameter, CRT has better positive correlation. Rough estimates of survival suggest that with CRT less than two seconds, there is a 90% survival rate; if CRT ranges between 2½ to four seconds, there is a 53% survival rate; while if CRT is greater than four seconds, there is only a 12% survival rate.
Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug toxicosis (as for example with phenylbutazone, flunixin meglumine, or ketoprofen) can create oral ulcers concurrent with the development ofgastric ulcers.
From Week 1 theory
Elimination of Waste
Elimination of Waste
Generally, horses:
.Defaecate – every 2-3 hrs
.Urinate – every 4-6 hrs
.Look for changes in colour &/ consistency
.Frequent eliminations and straining are not normal.
.Coffee-coloured or bloody urine, diarrhoea and constipation – call the vet.
.Normal horse urine is cloudy. This is due to the calcium carbonate crystals present in urine.
.Normal horse urine is foamy. This is due to the presence of totally normal mucus in urine. The mucus helps to prevent the calcium carbonate crystals from forming stones.
.Normal horse urine can vary in color, from light yellow to dark yellow. The color can vary within the amount that is voided at one time.
.Sometimes, you may notice that after exercise the urine is darker. Usually no worries there, darker urine can be normal or it can be a sign of a tying up and some other serious diseases. You may also observe that there is dark urine at other times, or even bloody urine. That is the time to worry and call your Veterinarian.
From Week 1 theory
Routine health checks
Routine health checks
TEETH
.Should be checked 6/12 months for;
-Uneven wear
-Require regular rasping
-Problems with teeth
-Eating difficulties
-Ridden problems
-Excessive saliva production
SIGNS of teeth problems
-Quidding may drop food from their mouth while eating
-Lose condition
-Excessive saliva dripping from the mouth
-Resist the bit when ridden or driven
-Undigested food in their droppings
-Bad breath where food is trapped in gaps between their teeth.
-Diastema – abnormal accumulation of food between the teeth
.An equine dental professional must be truly interested in equine dentistry, have an appropriate level of expertise, and possess the proper instrumentation. This person needs to be able to perform a complete dental examination and basic conservative, corrective procedures properly. Equine dentistry is not an area where more is better, as excessive tooth removal and/or excessive heat generation via rasping can damage teeth. Corrective dental procedures should allow horses to reach their full athletic potential and maintain good dental health, relieve pain, and extend tooth life.
From Week 1 theory
Other routine health checks
Other routine health checks
FOOTCARE
.Regular farrier visits essential. Every 6 weeks but depends on the individual horse when it needs the farrier.
.Maintain stable hygiene where appropriate. Pick out feet regularly.
From Week 1 theory
Shoeing
Shoeing
REASONS FOR SHOEING
.Prevent excessive wear of feet
.Provide grip?/Studs?
.Reduce concussion
.Combat the effects of wet conditions
.Correct defects and faulty movement
.Assist veterinary problems
.Amount of hoof they grow is equal to the amount of hoof they wear away.
.Domesticated horses are expected to carry riders, pull carriages and walk up and down concrete streets; this puts un-natural strain on the hoof.
.Without some form of shoe to protect the hoof the horse would soon be lame, as the amount of hoof they wear away would far outweigh the amount they grow.
.Can help to treat a disease, support the hoof, correct a gait abnormality and, in some cases, may even save a horse’s life (e.g. for a horse suffering fromlaminitis).
From Week 1 theory
Farrier
Farrier
TRIMMING
.Can vary between 6-10 wks depending on the hoof growth rate of the horse/pony
SHOEING
.Average horse requires new shoes every 6-8 weeks (or refits)
Depends upon:
-Growth rate of the feet, how horse wears his shoes, workload
From Week 1 theory
SIGNS TO INDICATE RE-SHOEING IS NECESSARY
SIGNS TO INDICATE RE-SHOEING IS NECESSARY
.Lost or loose shoe
.Thin shoes (slipping on road)
.Risen clenches
.The shoe/s have spread
.The foot is growing over the shoe
.The wall of the foot has grown - unbalanced
From Week 1 theory
HORSES NOT NECESSARILY REQUIRING SHOES
HORSES NOT NECESSARILY REQUIRING SHOES
.Those doing little road work
.Native horses/ponies who have naturally hard wearing feet
.Horses and ponies turned out at grass
.Front shoes only needed
.Regular trimming still required
.Welfare issues
From Week 1 theory
The Farriers (Registration) Act 1975
The Farriers (Registration) Act 1975
Within the Farriers (Registration) Act 1975,farriery means “any work in connection with the preparation or treatment of the foot of a horse for the immediate reception of a shoe thereon, the fitting by nailing or otherwise of a shoe to the foot or the finishing off of such work to the foot”.
This means in practice that trimming which is not going to result in the application of a shoe to the foot of an equine is not covered by the Act and is therefore not regulated by this Council.
However, horse owners should be aware that although, simple trimming and rasping of horses’ feet is allowed by lay persons under the Act to permit maintenance of foals’ and other unshod horses’ feet. Where more radical trimming and reshaping of horses’ feet is contemplated there is the potential for creating severe lameness. Experience has indicated this is particularly so where such ‘therapy’ is not undertaken by qualified farriers or veterinary surgeons.
Incorrect trimming of horses’ hooves over an extended period can also cause lameness. Horses suffering from significant foot disease such as laminitis should in any case be under the care of a veterinary surgeon. This is to ensure that appropriate treatment is carried out and that any necessary medication is prescribed, the prime object being the welfare of the animal concerned.
Both the practice of radical foot trimming by lay persons resulting in significant lameness, and/or failure to provide veterinary attention under these circumstances may engender suffering and consequent criminal proceedings under the Animal Welfare Acts enforced by the RSPCA and SSPCA.
It is recommend that owners should only carry out minor work on feet of a cosmetic or emergency nature and that any significant trimming should be carried out by a Registered Farrier or a veterinary surgeon, who will have been properly trained and strictly regulated by a code of conduct
Currently anyone can set themselves up as a barefoot trimmer, potentially without holding any qualification or having any relevant experience. This is clearly a serious welfare issue. It is not appropriate for someone with insufficient training and experience to trim a horse’s hooves. There are a number of significant welfare risks ranging from laming the horse by over-trimming or poor hoof balance to advising the owner that the horse is capable of work that it is not able to do without risking harm to the feet.
From Week 1 theory
Vaccination against
Vaccination against
.Equine Influenza
.Tetanus
.Equine Herpes Virus
.Rotavirus
.Equine Viral Arteritis – breeding stallions
.Strangles?
.Grass Sickness??
.Influenza:
-Primary course 2 injections 21-92 days apart First booster 150-215 days after 2nd primary vaccination Subsequent boosters within 365 days of preceding booster
-Most influenza vaccinations also contain the tetanus vaccine combined in a single injection and if you follow the vaccination schedule using the combined vaccine your horse will also be protected against tetanus.
When using separate vaccines, the schedule for tetanus vaccination is as follows:
-Primary course 2 injections 4-6 weeks apart First booster within 12 months of the 2nd primary injection Subsequent boosters only needed every 2 years
.Newborn foals are frequently given an injection of tetanus antitoxin (an ‘antidote’ to the tetanus infection) as soon as possible to provide temporary cover for 3-4 weeks. Regular tetanus vaccination can start at 3 months old.
.Rotavirus – diarrhoea in foals
.Eva – only in stallions – shed virus in semen
.Grass sickness links to botchulism – vaccinate for B in USA
Equine Grass Sickness Vaccine Trial
October 17, 2013
Grass Sickness Vaccine Trial Pilot Study Announced
The Equine Grass Sickness Fund, The Animal Health Trust and the Royal (Dick) School of Veterinary Studies, University of Edinburgh are delighted to announce that a small pilot trial of a vaccine to protect against grass sickness has been approved by the Veterinary Medicines Directorate. A total of 100 horses and ponies have been enrolled for this pilot study, with thanks to the participating owners for their support.
This pilot study is in preparation for a full vaccine trial, which is likely to commence in 2013-2014 subject to securing sufficient funding, which will involve at least 1000 horses and ponies. We have great hopes that these vaccine trials will mark an enormous breakthrough in the prevention of this devastating disease.
From Week 1 theory
Some Common Equine Ailments
Some Common Equine Ailments
.Colic
.Choke
.Equine Influenza
.Strangles
.Sarcoids
.Mud fever & Rain scald
.Laminitis
From Week 1 theory
Important info
Important info
.Remember that all horses will respond differently and have different baseline values
.Some horses are naturally calm, others are very active and excitable
.Some are aggressive eaters, some are slow and picky
.Bear in mind if there is a lot going on at the yard, moving home, bringing in a new neighbour
.Mares in season, stallions during the covering season
.Pregnant mares, foaling, weaning
.Within the first 4 days of life, the normal foal temperature varies between 99 to 102°F. The resting heart rate is between 70 to 100 beats per minute or higher if excited or active. Resting respiration rate in the first weeks is between 20 to 40 breaths per minute
From Week 1 theory
Signs of health
Signs of health
Know your horse
Know ‘normal’ parameters for the individual
Be aware of his behaviour
From Week 1 theory
Appearance
Appearance
Should have bright eyes, look alert and generally content
Colour in the eyes, nose, other membranous areas
o Pink is good
o Deep red / inflammation – colic?
o White – debility – off colour?
o Yellow gums – liver disorder?
o Purple – really bad – circulatory problem?
Eyes & nose
o Discharge can indicate fever, low grade virus – treatment?
o Don’t confuse with drippy nose post exercise
Coat and skin
o Starring coat – long term - worm infestation?
o Skin test for dehydration
Sweating
o Pain or discomfort
o More immediate sign
Swellings
o Glands / throat – worst case Strangles
Don’t confuse with grass glands
o Legs – check stance
Resting forelimb not good
Resting hindlimb may be ok
o Body
Rash – seasonal – insects? Nettles?
Allergies – medicines – feed: protein build up?
Lots of these things self correct or need minimal treatment. However, it is vital that you remain vigilant
From Week 1 theory
Observing the horse
Observing the horse
Has he eaten?
Is he drinking?
He is unhappy or grumpy or displaying unusual behaviours
Lying down away from the group?
Check the bed
Droppings
o Texture
o Colour
Urine
o Urinating excessively or not at all
o Clear to yellow
o Dark / purpley with strong smell – problem
From Week 1 theory
Signs of good health
Signs of good health
Temperature 38
Pulse 36-42 beats/min
Respiration 8 – 15 breathes/min
Good condition, shine to coat
Bright eyes
Alert, mobile ears
Droppings; normal consistency &
amount (8-10 daily) & break upon
hitting ground
Supple skin, skin recoil test, should
recoil immediately demonstrating
elasticity
Mucos membranes – salmon pink,
normal response to capillary refill test
Eating, drinking normally
From Week 1 theory
Signs horse may be off colour
Signs horse may be off colour
.Rise or fall in TPR
.Dull staring coat
.Poor condition
.Loose droppings /too hard /lack of
.Skin tight
.Lameness /resting a limb
.Obvious signs of injury /heat /swelling
.Discharge from nose
.Inability /lack of will to eat /drink
.Looking uncomfortable /rolling excessively
.Sweating /coughing /scratching /rubbing
From Week 1 theory
Temperature
Temperature
The temperature is taken by inserting
the thermometer into the anus of the
horse and holding against the side of the
rectum. Low readings may be taken if
the thermometer is inserted into a ball
of faeces by accident.
Rectally
Shake mercury thermometers, digital better?
High temp may indicate
o Flu or virus
o Inflammation
o Bacterial induced from an infection in a wound.
Low temp may indicate
o Hypothermia
o Loss of blood
o Serious illness
From Week 1 theory
Pulse
Pulse
Optimum lower in a fit horse
Higher in an overweight horse
Higher in foals (50-100bpm)
Take at a time when the horse is calm
Digital pulse
Jaw
Pastern
Forearm
Tail
From Week 1 theory
Respiration
Respiration
Faster at rest indication of pain
Heave lines
Watch from the flank or side
From Week 1 theory
Basic illnesses
Basic illnesses
Colic
Laminitis
Mud fever
Sweet itch
Flu / coughs / colds
Azoutria
Skin conditions
o Ring worm
o Rain scald
o Hives
The quicker ailments and conditions are reported, the more chance of a speedy
recovery and prevention of the ailment becoming more serious or spreading.
From Week 1 theory
Prevention
Prevention
Good feeding
Good exercise
Good stable management
Vaccinations – Flu and tet’ – yearly
Feet – 6-8 weeks
Teeth – 6-12 months
Back – 3 months optimum (6-12?)
Worming
From Week 1 theory
YOUR HORSE HEALTH
CHECKLIST DAILY
YOUR HORSE HEALTH
CHECKLIST - DAILY
Daily
HEART RATE
(normal range 28 – 44 beats per minute at rest)
RESPIRATORY RATE
(normal range 8 – 14 breaths per minute at rest)
TEMPERATURE
(normal range 37.5ºC – 38.5ºC)
DIGITAL PULSE
URINATION – FREQUENCY AND HABITS
APPETITE DRINKING
EYES
PICK OUT FEET AND CHECK SHOES (if appropriate)
ASSESS DROPPINGS
HOOF TEMPERATURE
MOVEMENT/STANCE
GENERAL DEMEANOUR
SKIN
From Week 1 theory
YOUR HORSE HEALTH
CHECKLIST MONTHLY
YOUR HORSE HEALTH
CHECKLIST - MONTHLY
BODY CONDITION SCORE
THOROUGH SKIN CHECK
From Week 1 theory
YOUR HORSE HEALTH
CHECKLIST ANNUAL
YOUR HORSE HEALTH
CHECKLIST - ANNUAL
ROUTINE VET CHECK
VACCINATIONS
DENTAL CHECK
From Week 1 theory
YOUR HORSE HEALTH
CHECKLIST - OTHER
YOUR HORSE HEALTH
CHECKLIST - OTHER
CHECK TACK AND EQUIPMENT
BEFORE USE
FWEC/WORMING TREATMENT FOLLOWING
VETERINARY ADVICE
From Week 1 theory
What is the maximum amount of time a wet poultice should be used for?
What is the maximum amount of time a wet poultice should be used for?
.You shouldn’t really use a wet poultice for more than three days as the foot needs chance to dry. You can dry poultice for a while though. Best to speak with you farrier if you are still concerned.
From
https://forums.horseandhound.co.uk/threads/foot-abscess-how-long-to-poultice.380432/#:~:text=Be%20careful%20of%20over%20poulticing%20the%20foot.%20You,but%20can%27t%20get%20it%20-%20any%20other%20suggestions%3F
Question from Pratical sheet Week 1 and 2
Why might you apply a wet poultice to a foot abscess?
Why might you apply a wet poultice to a foot abscess?
.Poultices keep the opening moist and encourage drainage. Changing bandages daily is recommended, as a poultice can dry the foot out if the abscess hasn’t broken.
.Soaking the hoof in warm water and Epsom salts (two cups to a gallon) between bandage changes is also a good practice.
From
Microsoft bing search
.A wet poultice (the most common way to apply) is more effective at drawing fluid to out, but a dry poultice could work well if an abscess has a lot of fluid coming out on its own.
From
https://www.petplanequine.co.uk/events/horse-hoof.asp#:~:text=A%20wet%20poultice%20%28the%20most%20common%20way%20to,Make%20sure%20the%20foot%20is%20clean%20and%20dry.
Question from Pratical sheet Week 1 and 2
Basic First Aid
Basic First Aid
First Aid = dealing with minor injuries OR being the first responder to major injuries. Have a first aid kit.
Good first aid needs to:
.Be administered promptly
.Be administered correctly
.Limit chances of further injury
.Recognise the need to call a vet
From
Week 1 and 2 practical = Practical First Aid and Bandaging - RECORDED Lecture NotesFile, slide 2
Wound Management
Wound Management
.Control the bleeding – apply pressure
.Clean, Clean, Clean!!!!!!
.Water / Saline Solution / DILUTED chlorhexidine (hibiscrub)
.DO NOT apply any creams / ointments / sprays
.Dress the wound
From
Week 1 and 2 practical = Practical First Aid and Bandaging - RECORDED Lecture NotesFile, slide 3
Dressing Wounds
Dressing Wounds
Have everything to hand before you start!
1) Dressings
-Melolin
-Allevyn
2) Soft cotton bandage
-Soffban
3) Knitted bandage
4) Cotton wool / Gamgee
5) Vet wrap
Refer to videos on Moodle to see how to apply dressings and bandages to leg wounds
From
Week 1 and 2 practical = Practical First Aid and Bandaging - RECORDED Lecture NotesFile, slides 4 to 8
Bandaging Awkward Areas: Knees and Hocks
Bandaging Awkward Areas: Knees and Hocks
.Risk to joints (carpal bone and point of hock)
.These areas need to be alleviated of pressure
.More likely to slip down
Refer to video on Moodle to see how to apply a hock bandage correctly
From
Week 1 and 2 practical = Practical First Aid and Bandaging - RECORDED Lecture NotesFile, slide 9
Do’s and Don’ts of Bandaging
Do’s and Don’ts of Bandaging
Do:
.Use clean sterile dressings
.Wrap evenly in one direction
.Wrap all dressing layers the same direction
.Overlap each layer by 50%
.Get everything ready before you start
Don’t:
.Wrap any layer too tight – room for a finger
.Have any wrinkles or points of uneven pressure
.Apply vet wrap directly to the leg
.Have too tight (or too loose)
.Leave gaps in the layers
From
Week 1 and 2 practical = Practical First Aid and Bandaging - RECORDED Lecture NotesFile, slide 12
Hoof Problems
Hoof Problems
Hot Hooves = Problems!!!!!!!!!!
-Laminitis
-Abscess
.Feel for heat in your horse’s hooves everyday – know what is normal
.Notice any difference in heat level between feet
.Feel for a Digital Pulse; BOUNDING = INFLAMMATION
From
Week 1 and 2 practical = Practical First Aid and Bandaging - RECORDED Lecture NotesFile, slide 13
What is a Hoof Abscess?
What is a Hoof Abscess?
.Also known as “pus in the foot” – EXACTLY that!! A build up of infected pus in the hoof.
Occurs when tiny cracks appear in the dry hoof wall that allow moisture, dirt, and bacteria to get in.
.This leads to infection and a build up of pus
.Very quickly becomes VERY painful for the horse
.They will be very lame and find it hard to put their foot to the floor.
.Watch out for swelling of the pastern - a sign that the infection is going up the leg. If this happens, call your vet immediately.
How to treat it???
-Farrier can dig it out if they can locate where it is
-Vet can apply a small hole to allow for drainage
-Hoof abscesses are routinely treated with a poultice “draw” it out
From
Week 1 and 2 practical = Practical First Aid and Bandaging - RECORDED Lecture NotesFile, slide 16
What is a poultice?
What is a poultice?
.Type of dressing that is put onto the horse hoof designed to draw out an abscess that has formed
.It normally comes in the shape of a horses hoof – or can be cut to size.
.Can be applied wet (placed in cooled boiled water) or dry
.A wet is more effective at drawing
fluid out, but a dry poultice could work
work well if an abscess has a lot of
Fluid coming out on its own.
.Used to draw out infection and
keep the area clean to prevent further
reinfection.
.Modern poultice dressings (such as Animalintex) contain boric acid and tragacanth, which work as an antiseptic and help draw out the pus.
From
Week 1 and 2 practical = Practical First Aid and Bandaging - RECORDED Lecture NotesFile, slide 17
Applying a Poultice
Applying a Poultice
1) Make sure the infected hoof has been cleaned thoroughly before you start. It must be clean and dry.
2) If you are using a wet poultice; remove from the cooled previously boiled water and squeeze the excess water out
3) Apply to the foot.
4) Wrap a layer of soft padding such asGamgee or Soffban bandage (or even a nappy) over the top of thepoultice and around the foot.
5) Focus yourattention to cushioning soft tissue areas like the heel bulbs and the coronary band.
6) Now apply the Vet wrap around the hoof to hold it all in place. Not too tight to cause pressure over the soft tissues, but not too loose either as it will fall off.
7) Use the heavy duty strips of duct taped – that you should have already cut and prepped - placing it over the sole of the foot and up the sides of the hoof wall.
8) This will create acreate a waterproof layer and to keep the dirt out.
9) Place Elastoplast and more duct tape over the top to ensure it is secure.
10) You can also use a poultice boot, or thick plastic haylage
bags or feed sacks to keep moisture and dirt out.
11) Change the poultice at least once a day, or more if
there’s a lot of pus coming out.
12) Only use a wet poultice for two to three days at a
time, then switch to a dry poultice.
.If you leave a wet poultice any longer the wound and
hoof will get waterlogged, which may weaken the foot.
.Refer to Moodle for a video showing how to apply a poultice
From
Week 1 and 2 practical = Practical First Aid and Bandaging - RECORDED Lecture NotesFile, slides 18 and 19
First Aid Kit (Equine)
First Aid Kit (Equine)
The following would be a suggested list of contents for a full equine first aid kit:
Clean bowl or bucket
Clean towel
Large roll of cotton wool
Round-ended curved scissors for trimming hair from wound edges
Anti-bacterial scrub eg Hibiscrub or Pevidine
Pack of sterile saline — very handy when on the move
Ready-to-use poultice eg Animalintex, Poultex
Wound gel eg Intrasite Gel
Non-stick dressings eg Melolin, Rondopad
Gamgee and large scissors for cutting it to size
A selection of bandages including:
- Stretch cotton bandages eg Knit-firm, K-band and crepe
bandages
- Adhesive bandages eg Elastoplast
- Elastic conforming self-adhesive bandages eg Vetrap, Co-
plus
- Tubular bandage eg Tubigrip
- Synthetic orthopaedic bandage eg Soffban
- A set of stable bandages
A roll of electrical insulating tape 2cm wide
A roll of black PVC tape or silver duct tape 7.5 or 10cm wide
A gentian violet or antibiotic spray
Petroleum jelly eg Vaseline
Wound powder containing fly repellent
Wound gel such as Dermagel, intrasite gel or vetalintex
Small pair of tweezers
Thermometer
Paper and pencil
A bright torch for inspecting wounds in poor light
From
Practical week 1 and 2
Additional Reading/Resources:
Equine First Aid Kit - Checklist from pony club
Most bandages include the same two to three layers:
Most bandages include the same two to three layers:
.Topical dressing, which might be a liniment, medicated pad, ointment, or powder. These are generally used in horses with injuries or skin conditions.
.Thick cotton padding such as practical (roll) cotton, layers of sheet cotton, cast padding, or fabric quilt or pillow wraps.
.Compressive/securing layer such as stable/track bandage, Vetrap, gauze, polo wrap, elastic tape, or stockinette.
From
Week 1 and 2 further reading link below
https://thehorse.com/115469/horse-bandaging-fundamentals/
Bandaging tips
Bandaging tips
- Keep everyone safe. Preventing human injuries is just as important as treating or preventing equine ones. The person applying the bandage should avoid kneeling or sitting on the ground, says Dechant, and should instead crouch, ready to move out of the way if necessary. She also recommends having a competent handler hold the horse during the process. Bear in mind, too, that some horses initially resent wraps on the hind legs, especially over the hocks, so it’s best to apply these in an open area in case the horse kicks out.
- Don’t skimp on the padding. “Insufficient padding is going to cause a bandage bow,” says Hanson. Padding should be clean, dry, and in reasonable shape, Dechant adds. Since the idea of the padding is to protect the leg, it’s important to avoid incorporating frayed bits of padding or fill that contains wrinkles or bunches–these can cause pressure points under a bandage.
- Keep it even under pressure. Remember that “anything directly against the skin should not be applied with any tension at all,” Dechant says. But uneven tension in a bandage’s securing layers also can potentially cause tendon damage. “You want an even distribution of compression along the leg” with this layer, too, says Hanson.
“The key is to apply it firmly but not too tightly,” Dechant adds. If using Vetrap or a similar flexible bandage to secure the padding, she suggests applying enough tension to remove 80% of the wrap’s innate “wrinkles.” She also stresses the importance of overlapping layers of bandage by 50% to avoid having edges of the wrap material dig into the leg.
Using a neatly and tightly rolled bandage will ease application and reduce the need to pull against the horse’s leg and sensitive tendons to tighten the wrap. This will also help ensure the bandage is as smooth against the horse’s leg as possible to avoid uneven pressure.
- Choose your own direction. Despite barn lore to the contrary, neither sources believe the direction a wrap is applied is critical. “Counterclockwise vs. clockwise is less important than technique,” says Dechant. “I don’t think the tendons care if they’re rolled to the outside or to the inside. However, each layer should be rolled the same (direction).” Hanson agrees with Dechant, noting that he hasn’t come across anything in literature to suggest wrapping in one direction or the other is superior. It is, however, important to be consistent in your technique and not to pull too tightly across the tendons.
- Keep it clean. Shavings, straw, dirt, and moisture can irrate the skin and increase the risk of a wound becoming infected. Start with clean, dry materials and check the bandage frequently for damage, dirt, or moisture. To seal out debris, Dechant recommends securing the top and bottom of a disposable-type wrap with elastic tape such as Elastikon.
From
Week 1 and 2 further reading link below
https://thehorse.com/115469/horse-bandaging-fundamentals/
Foot abscess process
Foot abscess process
.A foot abscess is a localised infection within the hoof, which forms a pocket of pus within the hoof horn. This usually develops due to a tiny penetration of the foot, for example, by a sharp stone. Bacteria are implanted into the deeper layers of the sole, and the more superficial layers then close over the top, trapping the infection. This can happen up to several weeks before any signs are seen, and usually goes totally unnoticed.
.After an average of 10-14 days, the bacteria have grown, and enough pus has accumulated that there is a large pressure build up. This pressure pushes on nerves within the foot and causes often excruciating pain. There is also significant inflammation within the foot, which can be noticed as a bounding digital pulse, and a degree of heat in the hoof wall. Lameness will also develop at this point, which will often be so severe that the horse is unwilling to place their foot on the ground. This is the time at which the vet is often called.
From week 1 and 2 further reading link below
https://equine-vets.com/health/f/foot-abscess/
Identifying Lameness
Identifying Lameness
• Step 1: Look at the horse static and take history.
• Step 2: initial assessment. Walk and trot straight line,
(flexion tests, hoof and joint tests), lunging on both
firm and soft surface, palpation of limbs, back and
neck. Ridden exam.
• What are we looking and feeling for when we
palpate?
• Why different surfaces?
• Why circle?
• Step 3: Diagnostic procedures. –nerve blocks
then once area of concern located xrays/ultrasound potentially bone scans/MRI
From week 2 theory
Lameness protocol
Lameness protocol
• Before static assessment always ensure:
– The horse is standing square on a firm, even
surface
– View from cranial, lateral and caudal
• Look
• Feel
– Logical
• Dynamic assessment :
– View from cranial, lateral and caudal
• Looking for:
– Straightness
– Width
– Length of stride
– Travel
• Initially straight lines on a hard surface
• May also use soft surface and look at the horse ridden.
• LISTEN.
From week 2 theory
lameness in FL or HL?
lameness in FL or HL?
Forelimb
• Head nod on sound limb
• Louder landing on sound limb
• Increased fetlock extension on sound limb
Hindlimb
• Looking from behind the hip
is hitched and the lame limb
appears to be carried higher
than the non-lame limb.
• Occasionally head nod on
lame limb
• Louder landing and fetlock
extension on sound limb
• “Back pain”
From week 2 theory
Location of lameness
Location of lameness
• Ligament
• Tendon
• Foot
• Joint
• Muscle
From week 2 theory
Where Gait Phase for lameness
Where Gait Phase for lameness
Upper Limb Lameness
• Swing phase
• Muscular
• Joints above carpus/tarsus
• Bones
Lower Limb Lameness
• Stance phase
• Joints below carpus/hock
• Tendons
• Bones
From week 2 theory
Lameness Prevalence
Lameness Prevalence
• 8-13% of horses experience lameness each year
– 70% recover
• Distribution
– Load 60% FL
– 40% HL
• Up to 95% of FL lameness distal to carpus
• HL lameness less common, but not to be dismissed
From week 2 theory
Importance of a Thorough Assessment for lameness
Importance of a Thorough Assessment for lameness
• Ridden assessment more important than previously thought
– Estimated 12% of lameness is only apparent when ridden
• Rider ability important and should be standardised where
possible for assessment
• Assess in trot and on both diagonals.
• Subtle lameness may require more intensive work.
From week 2 theory
Lameness Assessment tips
Lameness Assessment tips
• Consider the relative quality of the trot and the canter.
• Pain often causes generalised restriction of movement
– The horse may fail to track up
– The horse may become heavy in
the rider’s hand
– Unwillingness/tension
• Low grade forelimb lameness
– The horse may take slightly lame steps on turns
• Assess body lean – should be symmetrical.
• Problems in canter often manifest first.
• With hindlimb lameness it is typical that there are difficulties in movements requiring more collection.
• Saddle slip may be indicative of lameness.
– Saddle slip with HL lameness >86% occurs to the side of the lame limb.
From week 2 theory
Grading Lameness
Grading Lameness
0 Lameness not perceptible under any circumstances
1 Lameness is difficult to observe and is not consistently apparent, regardless of circumstances
2 Lameness is difficult to observe at a walk or when trotting in a straight line but consistently apparent under certain circumstances
3 Lameness is consistently observable at a trot under all
circumstances
4 Lameness is obvious at a walk
5 Lameness produces minimal weightbearing in motion and/or at rest or a complete inability to move
From week 2 theory
Conditions of the Foot
Conditions of the Foot
Most common cause of lameness in forelimb. Multiple structures can be affected;
• Bruising
• Abscess
• Wall cracks
• Sole
- penetrations/punctures
• Laminar problems
• Collateral cartilage
• Coffin/pastern joints
• Navicular bone/bursa
• Hygiene issues
From week 2 theory
Soft Tissue Structures
Soft Tissue Structures
• Tendons
– Transfer of muscle contraction into skeletal movement
– Increase locomotory efficiency by storing and releasing energy
• Ligaments
– Align and stabilise adjacent bones
– Passive resistance to motion
From week 2 theory
Common Soft Tissue Injuries
Common Soft Tissue Injuries
• Discipline related injury types
– SDFT
• Increased risk factors; fast work; age; firmer surface;
weight and hoof conformation
– DDFT
• More commonly seen in SJ, Endurance and Dr (age?)
– Proximal suspensory desmitis – SJ, dressage
– Tendonitis
From week 2 theory
Tendons
Tendons
• Injury occurrence 11% -46%
• Re-injury in 43% - 93%
• Common reason for retirement
• Diagnosis?
From week 2 theory
Tendon Injury
Tendon Injury
• Extrinsic
– Sharp laceration
– Traumatic blow
– Damage to ECM and cells
• Intrinsic
– Degenerative condition
– Overuse injury
• Mechanical influences
– Cumulative microdamage
– Single acute overload
• Hyperthermia
– Loss of stored energy as heat
– Up to 45º in gallop
• Poor blood flow
– Limited during maximal loading
– Reperfusion injury
From week 2 theory
Tendon Treatment and Rehab
Tendon Treatment and Rehab
• Immediately – 10-14 days
– Reduce inflammation
– NSAIDs?
– Support
– Rest
• Cold therapy
– Gold standard?
• Controlled Exercise
• Additional treatments?
• Regimen individual to horse and situation
From week 2 theory
