Western rider level 3 Flashcards
List signs of trouble in a horse’s health.
- Change in eating habits
- Bleeding that does not stop
- Diarrhea or constipation
- Convulsions or shaking
- Trouble standing or walking
- Abnormal sweating
- Change in feel or texture of the coat
- Sudden change in behavior
- Obvious pain
What is the normal temperature range for a horse?
37.5° to 38.5° C (99.8° to 101.5° F).
What indicates a fever in a horse?
A temperature of 39° C (102° F) or above.
What is the normal resting respiration rate for a horse?
8 to 16 breaths per minute.
How can a horse’s pulse be measured?
By sliding a finger along the inside of the lower jaw.
How do you calculate the pulse rate of a horse?
Count the number of pulses in 15 seconds and multiply by 4.
What should be applied to a cut on a horse before a veterinarian is called?
Cold water and a soft clean pad.
What is the normal pulse rate of a mature horse at rest?
32 to 40 beats per minute.
What is capillary refill time?
The time it takes for the blood vessels to fill after pressure is applied.
What are the signs of a horse with colic?
- Sweating
- Increased pulse rate and breathing
- Desire to get up and down
- Looking and kicking at flanks
- Not eating or drinking
- Lying down and rolling
- Constipation
If in doubt, call a vet.
What is laminitis?
A fever or inflammation of the laminae in the foot.
The laminae connect the coffin bone to the hoof wall.
What are common causes of laminitis?
- Overeating high protein feed (e.g., grain, lush green grass)
- Retained afterbirth in mares
- Too much concussion to the feet
- Reaction to a drug administered for other ailments
These factors can increase the risk of laminitis.
What is tying up (azoturia or Monday Morning Disease)?
A severe cramping of a muscle group causing paralysis of the hindquarters muscles.
This typically happens within 15 minutes after starting to exercise.
What are some conditions that contribute to tying up?
- Lack of conditioning
- Parasites
- Lack of certain minerals and vitamins in the diet
- Too much carbohydrate-rich feed
- Irregular work
These factors can increase the risk of tying up.
What is Tetanus, and how is it transmitted in horses?
A bacterial disease transmitted through deep puncture wounds.
What are the key symptoms of Tetanus in horses?
Muscle stiffness, limited jaw movement, and a visible eye membrane.
How can Influenza in horses be prevented, especially in stressful situations?
Vaccinate with 2 doses at 4-8 week intervals and annually; vaccinate adults 2 weeks before stressful events.
What are the symptoms of the respiratory form of Rhinopneumonitis?
Fever (102°-106°F), persistent cough (1-3 weeks), and nasal discharge.
How can Rhinopneumonitis be prevented in broodmares?
Vaccinate at 4 months, annually for adults, and 3 times during gestation for broodmares.
How is Strangles (Distemper) transmitted, and what is the prevention method?
Transmitted through air, direct contact with a sick horse, or contaminated objects. Prevention includes quarantining infected animals and disinfecting materials.
What are the symptoms of Rabies in horses?
Agitation, violent behavior, aggression, and potential self-injury.
How is Equine Encephalomyelitis (Sleeping Sickness) transmitted?
Transmitted by blood-sucking insects, especially mosquitoes.
What is the prevention method for Equine Infectious Anemia (EIA)?
Use sterilized needles for injections and conduct regular Coggins Tests to detect carriers.
