As the temperatures warm up, make sure that you have your rescue horses’ body, including joints assessed. Let the veterinarian know about problem areas your horse may have had previously. Also, tell them the types of activities you’ll expect of them for the upcoming months. The veterinarian will be able to assess them based on these activities. Depending on any previous injuries and the expected activity, the veterinarian may require the horse undergo some flexion tests. This is done by jogging up and down the road, or require that x-rays or other imaging be done.
Identifying Joint Problems
Before your veterinarian tends to your rescue horse, it’s always a good idea to do some basic checkups yourself. A horse that’s hesitant to move a certain way or is much stiffer when they get up from laying down, or even getting more easily tired after activity, could have joint problems. It’s important you take note of this so your veterinarian can address it. You want to do as much as you can to protect your horse’s joint health. Checkups aid in a faster recovery and to help prevent future injuries.
Arthritis
Get your horse a checkup if they have arthritis. Arthritis can lead to degradation of cartilage. They will be able to prescribe the proper medication for your horse to take. You also want to look for supplements that have ingredients such as glycosaminoglycans (PSGAGs), vitamin C, and avocado-soybean unsaponifiables (ASU). These will help with those inflammations. Avoid discomfort and pain by trimming your horses’ foot. Also, strengthen the horse muscles by exercising them regularly. A healthy weight will also help them..
Perform a Spring Checkup on Your Rescue Horse to Keep Them Healthy
By doing this annual spring checkup, you will improve your rescue horse’s quality of life. While you may not be able to get rid of the arthritis or joint problems, you can help to reduce any discomfort or pain. Spring checkups are also a great way to see if your horse has any seasonal respiratory allergies. Even if your horse seems healthy, perform a checkup so you can be sure that they are at their best. For more helpful tips on horses, check out the Equis Save Foundation Blog.
