Why is it crucial for your horse to have routine veterinary care?
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Whether you are the first-time horse owner or a caretaker for twelve horses, you will need to visit your local equine doctor at some point. Aside from properly exercising and feeding your horse, various aspects of general care are required to keep your horses healthy throughout their lives. This includes routine veterinary care for vaccinations, grooming, and hoof care to treat dental problems and parasite control.
Why Is Veterinary Care Important?
As a horse owner, you must be willing to commit to seeking professional equine care from a licensed veterinary practice. A veterinarian’s knowledge and experience are invaluable because they can undoubtedly help guide you in taking better care of your horse. Most of the time, we see older horses treated as if they were still in their prime. It is strongly advised that horses over the age of 20 visit the veterinarian twice a year, if not more frequently.
When Should you Visit a vet?
While an annual visit to the equine hospital for vaccinations and other health issues can address most of your horse’s needs, serious issues may necessitate extended time. Only in those moments do you realize the value of routinely inspecting your horse’s health.
Parasites
Foals can be more vulnerable to parasites than adult horses. For this reason alone, foals require more veterinary care. Although most horses are dewormed, they are not required to receive the same treatment as foals. When you visit the vet, a sample of your horse’s feces may be required so that they can analyze the problems. If parasites are discovered in the sample, the veterinarian will recommend appropriate health plans for your horse.
Physical Examinations
Physical examinations can reveal a lot to your veterinarian because they are trained to detect even the smallest external problems with your horse. The exam typically includes inspecting the horse’s hooves for damage or shoe replacement, weighing the horse, and checking its teeth. Because hooves are constantly growing, they must be trimmed every six weeks.
Dental Care
It is always advised that owners take their horses to the veterinarian for a dental checkup at least once a year. This is because equine teeth wear down quickly and continuously throughout their lives. As a result, sharp points, hooks, and edges must be trimmed down or “floated.” Bad breath from gum disease, hesitation or reluctance to eat or chew, and dropping food while eating are signs of dental distress. Your veterinarian will inspect the inside of your horse’s mouth for sharp edges or points and trim them with a nipper or file.
Vaccinations
Every year, horses are prescribed the vaccinations that are necessary for their well-being as well as those that are recommended based on where they live. Horses are typically immunized against tetanus, influenza, and rabies, among other diseases. It is completely normal for a veterinarian to administer additional vaccinations if necessary. However, in some cases, another professional may be able to do so.
Final Thoughts
If your horse requires long-term care or physical rehabilitation, you must see the vet more frequently than usual. On the other hand, routine vet exams can help reduce such visits. Some conditions are easier to treat or manage when detected early rather than later.
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