Owning a horse is a very big privilege, as well as being quite expensive. Most owners like to keep their animals in private boarding barns where they can be cared for to a high standard. It is also much more convenient than trying to do all the work themselves. Between busy work schedules, family and other commitments it can be difficult enough to find the time to ride.
Keeping their horse in the very best of health is a number one priority for every owner. Navicular disease in horses is one of the most feared conditions as it often leads to permanent lameness that renders the horse useless. Unfortunately the condition is surprisingly common and affects many thousands of animals every year.
Anatomically the horses fetlock joint is very similar to the human ankle. There are a number of small bones that are prone to damage and degeneration. For a horse the disintegration of the navicular bone is particularly devastating. Damage can be seen on x rays and also by the use of simple nerve blocks. In most cases getting a diagnosis is fairly routine, but in a few cases the horse will present with a completely different set of symptoms.
Occasionally a horse will have a very odd set of symptoms that can really confuse even the most experienced veterinarian. It has been known for an animal to show no signs of front end lameness, instead looking like it has a serious back problem. However on close examination no signs of an actual back issue can be found. In these cases the horse is trying very hard to disguise its lameness by taking all the weight off its front feet.
One of the most classic signs that a horse is suffering from navicular disease is when they stand at rest with their front leg pointed to take the stress off their leg. If a horse is observed engaging in this behavior along with any degree of lameness it is time to have him examined by an experienced equine vet. Most veterinarians specialize in one type of animal. Horse vets usually make farm calls and bring a wide variety of diagnostic tools with them.
The majority of horses will show significant improvement within a few weeks of treatment. The anti inflammatory drugs will help to increase the blood flow to the affected bone and this will reduce the pain. In addition, the animal can receive additional medication for pain. After the doses have been established the horse can return to light work.
Those horses that do not respond to treatment may need to be retired from all work. In some severe cases surgery may be the only practical answer. However, before going ahead the owners must understand that the success rate is limited and the recovery time is quite substantial.
Before buying a horse it is important to check the animals blood lines. Navicular is often transmitted from parent to offspring. If the mother or father had the condition, there is a strong possibility that the foals will eventually develop it too.
Keeping their horse in the very best of health is a number one priority for every owner. Navicular disease in horses is one of the most feared conditions as it often leads to permanent lameness that renders the horse useless. Unfortunately the condition is surprisingly common and affects many thousands of animals every year.
Anatomically the horses fetlock joint is very similar to the human ankle. There are a number of small bones that are prone to damage and degeneration. For a horse the disintegration of the navicular bone is particularly devastating. Damage can be seen on x rays and also by the use of simple nerve blocks. In most cases getting a diagnosis is fairly routine, but in a few cases the horse will present with a completely different set of symptoms.
Occasionally a horse will have a very odd set of symptoms that can really confuse even the most experienced veterinarian. It has been known for an animal to show no signs of front end lameness, instead looking like it has a serious back problem. However on close examination no signs of an actual back issue can be found. In these cases the horse is trying very hard to disguise its lameness by taking all the weight off its front feet.
One of the most classic signs that a horse is suffering from navicular disease is when they stand at rest with their front leg pointed to take the stress off their leg. If a horse is observed engaging in this behavior along with any degree of lameness it is time to have him examined by an experienced equine vet. Most veterinarians specialize in one type of animal. Horse vets usually make farm calls and bring a wide variety of diagnostic tools with them.
The majority of horses will show significant improvement within a few weeks of treatment. The anti inflammatory drugs will help to increase the blood flow to the affected bone and this will reduce the pain. In addition, the animal can receive additional medication for pain. After the doses have been established the horse can return to light work.
Those horses that do not respond to treatment may need to be retired from all work. In some severe cases surgery may be the only practical answer. However, before going ahead the owners must understand that the success rate is limited and the recovery time is quite substantial.
Before buying a horse it is important to check the animals blood lines. Navicular is often transmitted from parent to offspring. If the mother or father had the condition, there is a strong possibility that the foals will eventually develop it too.
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