 |
||||
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
Sick Horse? Know When to Say “No”By Kentucky Equine Research Staff · June 17, 2011
The big show, trail ride, or race is coming up in a few days. You've paid your entry fees and spent a lot of time getting your horse ready. A day or two before the event, however, you get a hint that your horse maybe isn't 100%. It's nothing you can put your finger on, just a sense that something isn't right. Are you imagining it, or is there really a problem?
There are a few things you can look at to decide whether the horse should stay home and wait for a better weekend.
· Is he eating normally? If he usually cleans up all his feed and hay but has not done so in the last few days, this is a danger sign. Also if he's lost weight on a program of feed and exercise that used to keep him in good condition, suspect a problem.
· Does he look okay? If his coat suddenly seems dull, his posture has changed noticeably, or he seems to have lost interest in what's going on around him, those are signs that he may be feeling bad. Patchy sweating for no reason may also be a clue that he isn't quite right.
· What about his behavior? Is the horse unusually jumpy and nervous, or is he much quieter than usual? Is he acting more irritable or sensitive to noises and touches than at other times? Not wanting to stand for grooming and tacking up, not cooperating with the rider, or refusing to get in the trailer are red flags if these are things that he normally doesn't mind doing.
· How is he moving? Reluctance to move, stumbling, standing with feet gathered under him or with forefeet pushed out in front, walking as though he's not sure where he's putting his feet, and swinging his hind legs wide as he turns sharply are all signs that could point to pain or a neurologic condition.
Anything that's out of the horse's normal pattern might be a sign that your horse just isn't feeling good for some reason. Forcing the horse to compete in this condition could easily compromise his health, and will likely not lead to an enjoyable day of riding for either of you. Instead of going to that long-anticipated event or competition, the best plan may be to cancel the trip and call your veterinarian. An examination might turn up a fever, subtle lameness, unusual blood profile, flare-up of a previous injury, or some other malady. After treatment and some time off, many horses will be ready and eager to give you a great ride on your next scheduled outing.
