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Understanding and Managing Dog Ear Infections

Understanding and Managing Dog Ear Infections

Nov 20, 2023 | Ears, Infections

Whinny’s Wisdoms

Springhill Equine Veterinary Clinic

Greetings, dear readers! Whinny here, your trusty guide through the curious world of dog ear infections. Today, we’re going to delve into the fascinating realm of these “ear-resistible” troubles that our furry friends, like Fido and Fluffy, sometimes encounter. So, grab your metaphorical magnifying glasses, and let’s explore the intricacies of ear infections in our four-legged pals.

The Anatomy of a Dog’s Ear

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First off, let me introduce you to the ear-tastic design of our canine companions’ auditory apparatus. Unlike your straightforward (aka boring) human ears, a dog’s ear canal takes on a peculiar “J” shape, with both vertical and horizontal segments. It’s like a doggy labyrinth in there! This unique architecture presents a challenge for debris, as it must defy gravity to exit. Instead of a straightforward exit strategy, it’s an uphill battle.

Accumulation and Infection

Now, here’s where the plot thickens. Accumulation in the ear canal is like an all-you-can-eat buffet for bacteria and fungi. Earwax, skin oil, dirt, and other debris, when left to their own devices, create a petri dish for microorganisms to thrive. These tiny troublemakers typically coexist with a dog’s ear but under control. However, when excess moisture and debris are on the menu, they go from being polite dinner guests to party crashers, leading to a full-blown ear infection. Most often ear infections are multi-species, with both fungus and bacteria causing issues.

So, what contributes to this ear-wax-gone-wild scenario, you ask? Well, here are the culprits:

  1. Congenital or Breed Predisposition: Some dogs are more predisposed to ear infections due to their breed’s ear shape or good old genetics. It’s like having a mouse-sized doorway in a mouse hole; it just doesn’t work.
  1. Water Woes: Leaving water in the ear after a bath or a swim creates the ideal environment for microbial growth. It’s a bit like us mice diving headfirst into a river – not our favorite activity.
  1. Underlying Health Conditions: Certain diseases can lead to abnormal earwax buildup, as if we mice had a never-ending stash of cheese. It’s not a good thing.
  1. Skin Allergies: Dogs with skin allergies, akin to us mice with a sudden cheese allergy, are especially prone to ear infections. The earwax moisture is a welcome mat for bacteria and yeast.

Managing and Treating Ear Infections

Fear not, dear pet owners! Ear infections are typically manageable and can be cleared up with the right treatment. However, like a wedge of cheese, you mustn’t cut it too soon; follow your veterinarian’s guidance for treatment once a diagnosis is made. Stopping treatment prematurely can leave the infection lingering like a cheesy aftertaste. Most often, we will take a sample swab of both ears and examine them under the microscope after a special staining procedure to identify the type of infection. We can then use this same test to check our work after a course of treatment.

If the infection keeps showing up like a mouse at a cheese convention, further testing may be required. Allergies are often the sneakiest suspects behind recurring ear problems. They can be environmental or food-related and often sneak in like a mouse in the night. Hormone imbalances can also be accomplices in this ear mystery.

Preventing Ear Infections

Prevention is the key to a harmonious life with your furry friend. Here are some tips to keep ear infections at bay: 

  1. Regular Cleaning: Gently clean your pet’s ears with a veterinarian-approved ear cleaner to whisk away excess wax and debris. No need to dig for buried treasure; a gentle touch will do.

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Whinny Wisdom: To achieve clean ears without fear, here’s the best plan: soak two cotton balls with the ear cleaner, then put the bottle away. Gently push one cotton ball into each ear canal–don’t worry, they won’t get stuck—and cover the canal with your dog’s ear flaps. Gently massage at the base until you hear a nice squishy sound. If tolerated, massage for about 30 seconds, then stand back! Your dog will shake out both cotton balls on their own, bringing lots of debris with it. Then, you can use clean cotton balls or gauze to wipe away the shaken loose debris.

  1. Drying Ears: After baths or swims, ensure your pet’s ears are bone dry. No puddles or soggy surprises allowed!
  1. Allergy Management: If your pet has allergies, work closely with your veterinarian to navigate them like a mouse through a maze. Allergies often lead to skin problems, including ear infections. I’ve got another blog covering all things allergy: Allergy Blog
  1. Regular Check-Ups: Schedule regular check-ups with your veterinarian to catch potential ear capers early and nip them in the bud.

Conclusion

In conclusion, ear infections are like that rogue mouse in the pantry—unwanted, but manageable. Understanding the unique ear anatomy and potential causes of ear infections in dogs is the first step in keeping Fido’s, Fluffy’s, and everyone else’s ears in top-notch shape. By taking steps to manage allergies, maintain clean ears, and seek prompt veterinary care when needed, you’ll provide your pets with the best possible ear health and overall well-being.

So, there you have it, folks, a mouse’s perspective on dog ear infections. For the record, cat ear infections work about the same way and most of this will apply to our feline friends as wellKeep your ears perked and tails wagging, and remember that knowledge is your best weapon against these ear-enemies.

Until next time, cheese enthusiasts!

~Whinny

P.S. If you’re looking for some stocking stuffer ideas for a horse-crazy teen in your life, we have the perfect book! The world needs more equine vets, and we need your help to get them prepared for the difficult task of getting into vet school. This book is for young people age 12 to adult. Click Here to learn more!

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Whinny’s Wisdoms is the official blog of Whinny the Clinic Mouse at Springhill Equine Veterinary Clinic in Newberry, Florida. If you liked this blog, please subscribe below, and share it with your friends on social media! For more information, please call us at (352) 472-1620, visit our website at SpringhillEquine.com, or follow us on Facebook!

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Clostridial Diseases in Horses: Understanding, Prevention, and Treatment

Clostridial Diseases in Horses: Understanding, Prevention, and Treatment

Nov 13, 2023 | Botulism, Clostridial Diseases, Tetanus

Whinny’s Wisdoms

Springhill Equine Veterinary Clinic

Hey everybody, Whinny here! This week I’m talking about a tiny little microscopic thing that can have a huge impact on our equine friends. Clostridial diseases are a group of potentially life-threatening bacterial infections that can affect horses. While these conditions can be rare, they can be extremely dangerous when they do occur. We’ll delve into the world of clostridial diseases in horses, including their causes, symptoms, prevention, and treatment options.

Understanding Clostridial Diseases

Clostridial diseases are caused by a group of bacteria known as Clostridia. These bacteria are commonly found in the environment and in the gastrointestinal tracts of horses, making them a constant risk. When conditions are favorable for their growth, Clostridia can produce deadly toxins, leading to various diseases in horses.

Common Clostridial Diseases in Horses

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  1. **Tetanus**: Clostridium tetani is perhaps the most well-known clostridial disease in horses. It occurs when the bacterium Clostridium tetani enters the body through wounds or injuries. Tetanus is characterized by muscle stiffness, difficulty swallowing, and spasms. Vaccination against tetanus is a crucial preventive measure, especially since horses are more sensitive than other species to tetanus. It is important to vaccinate horses every 6 months against tetanus.
  1. **Botulism**: Botulism is caused by Clostridium botulinum and can result from the ingestion of contaminated feed or forage. Large round bales and compacted hay cubes or hay bales have a higher risk of becoming contaminated. Horses with botulism experience muscle weakness, paralysis, and difficulty eating or drinking. Immediate veterinary care is essential.
  1. **Malignant Edema/Gas Gangrene**: Clostridial myositis is a serious condition also known as malignant edema or gas gangrene. It can occur when Clostridia bacteria are introduced into the muscle, often due to improper intramuscular injection with Banamine (flunixin meglumine). It results in painful swelling, lameness, and systemic illness.

Prevention

Preventing clostridial diseases in horses primarily involves vaccination, good management practices, and safe injection techniques:

  1. **Vaccination**: Ensure your horse is up to date with vaccinations for tetanus, botulism, and other relevant clostridial diseases. Consult your veterinarian for the best vaccination schedule.
  1. **Wound Care**: Properly clean and care for any wounds or injuries to minimize the risk of bacterial entry. Maintain a clean environment.
  1. **Feed and Forage Hygiene**: Pay close attention to the quality and storage of feed and forage to prevent botulism. Avoid feeding spoiled or contaminated forage.
  1. **Injection Safety**: Ensure proper injection technique, site sanitation, and needle hygiene to prevent the introduction of Clostridia into muscle tissue. Known how medications are suppiosed to be administered and which medications should be given by a trained professional.

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Treatment

If you suspect your horse may have a clostridial disease, immediate veterinary intervention is crucial. Treatment often involves aggressive supportive care, including antibiotics and wound management in the case of tetanus or clostridial myositis. Severely affected horses may require hospitalization.

Conclusion

Clostridial diseases in horses are rare but dangerous. Prevention through vaccination, good management practices, and safe injection techniques is essential. Being informed about the potential risks and early recognition of symptoms can help protect your horse from these life-threatening conditions. Always consult with your equine veterinarian for guidance on vaccination schedules and other preventive measures to keep your horse healthy and safe.

Until next week,

~Whinny

P.S. Did you know that the podcast my docs created, called Straight from the Horse Doctor’s Mouth, is the #1 equine podcast in the world? It’s true! Depending on the day, it’s somewhere in the Top 5 Pets and Animals podcasts on Apple Podcasts, and has been #1 many times. That means it’s beating out all those dog and cat shows! You horse people definitely love this podcast, and I just wanted to say thanks for listening on behalf of the humans here at the Clinic. If you haven’t discovered it yet, you can check it out over on the Podcast Page of my website.

Whinny’s Wisdoms is the official blog of Whinny the Clinic Mouse at Springhill Equine Veterinary Clinic in Newberry, Florida. If you liked this blog, please subscribe below, and share it with your friends on social media! For more information, please call us at (352) 472-1620, visit our website at SpringhillEquine.com, or follow us on Facebook!

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Don’t Share Your Feed!

Don’t Share Your Feed!

Nov 6, 2023 | Feed, Poisonous Plants

Whinny’s Wisdoms

Springhill Equine Veterinary Clinic

Hi everyone, Whinny here! Halloween’s over but today I want to talk about a really scary thing for your horse’s health. Don’t we have enough things to be terrified of when it comes to horses, you say? Well yes, I agree but we’ve got to add one more. What’s kind of crazy is that a lot of people have never heard of it. Many of you have cattle, chickens, or other farm animals on the property with your horses. Do you know how super dangerous their feed can be if your horse eats any of it? That’s because of ingredients called ionophores, and they can be fatal if even a small amount is ingested. New fear unlocked, right?

What Is An Ionophore?

Ionophores are chemicals that transport ions across cell membranes. They have antimicrobial effects on parasites called coccidia, and so are used as feed additives for cattle, goats, swine, and poultry to improve weight gain and control protozoan infection. There are several kinds of ionophores used in feed, including monensin, lasalocid, salinomycin, narasin, maduramicin, semduramicin, and laidlomycin propionate. Monensin is a the prototypical ionophore and is used extensively in the beef and dairy industries. It’s also known by its trade name, Rumensin.

Why Is It So Bad For Horses?

Here’s the big problem for horse owners – while cattle and poultry can safely ingest relatively high levels of monensin in their feed, for horses, it’s a very different story. Horses are nearly 20 times more sensitive than cattle and 200 times more sensitive than poultry to monensin. The toxic dose for monensin in horses is less than 2.0 milligrams per kilogram of body weight, or about 1 gram for an average sized horse. Why is it so toxic for horses compared to other livestock? We don’t really know.

Whinny Wisdom: What’s good for the goose might be good for the gander, but it’s bad for the horse. When it comes to your animals, not sharing is caring!

 The symptoms of toxicity vary depending on the amount of monensin ingested. Trace amounts may cause a horse to go off his feed, show signs of colic and appear unwell for a few days. Larger amounts will cause a horse to show more serious symptoms within a few hours including colic, weakness, sweating, incoordination, collapse and sudden death.

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The most important result of monensin toxicity is damage to heart muscle. In a healthy heart, ion fluxes of sodium and potassium allow the heart to contract normally with each beat. It’s believed that monensin inhibits sodium and potassium ion transport across the cell membrane, preventing the heart from working properly and leading to cardiovascular collapse. Horses that recover from sublethal poisoning can develop chronic heart failure resulting in exercise intolerance, poor performance, and death. Sometimes horses die very quickly with acute heart failure. Ingestion of a large dose at one time can result in death within a few hours of eating the feed.  In other cases, they may die of heart failure in a few days or even weeks.

How Does It Happen?

Accidental poisonings can occur if there is a mixing error at a feed mill. If the mill makes cattle or poultry feed and ionophore ingredients are accidentally added to horse feed instead, the contaminated product may be distributed to horse farms. However, only a small proportion of poisoning cases are caused by feed mill errors. More commonly, a horse gets access to cattle feed by accident – either eating spilled feed or gaining access to where the feed is stored on his farm. Some owners may simply not realize it’s even a problem and offer it to their horse, assuming that feed that is good for their cattle or chickens is fine to feed to their horse as well.

Can It Be Treated?

Unfortunately, there is no antidote for monensin toxicity. The best thing you can do is to prevent any possibility of your horse getting access to feed made for other species and purchase your horse feed from a reputable company that uses strong quality control measures. If the worst happens though, call your vet immediately. There’s no time to waste here. If the ingestion was recent, your vet will pass a tube into the horse’s stomach and attempt to pump out as much as the feed as she can. She will probably administer mineral oil or activated charcoal to try to reduce absorption of the chemical. Your horse may be put on intravenous fluids for supportive care. The problem is that the toxin acts quickly, sometimes before you are even aware of the ingestion or have called your vet. And unfortunately, once the damage occurs, it is permanent. Even if the horse survives in the short term, damage to the heart muscle may cause heart failure in the future.

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Can You Test For It?

The clinical signs of poisoning can be non-specific, meaning it’s not always obvious that the horse’s sickness is due to ionophores. If multiple horses become sick after starting a new batch of feed, a feed-related toxicity should be suspected. An exam of the horse’s cardiovascular system may give evidence – the heart rate may be abnormally fast or irregular and an ultrasound exam of the heart may show dysfunction. Blood and urine samples should be run to look for abnormal muscle enzyme levels. But there may not be obvious signs that are specific for a diagnosis of ionophore toxicity. The ionophore chemicals themselves break down quickly, meaning they can be difficult to test for in the horse’s body, especially if the ingestion happened several days ago. If contaminated feed is suspected, it is usually easier to test the feed for the presence of ionophores. The suspected feed should be saved for testing, along with all receipts, feed bags, and labels.

So pretty scary, right? And not fun Halloween scary, it’s scary scary. But I really want you to be aware of the risk so you can be super careful about keeping livestock feed far, far, far away from your horses and never have to experience that nightmare.

Until next week,

Whinny

P.S. There are a ton of great videos over on my YouTube Channel. Have you checked them out? Between the videos and the podcast the humans around here do, Straight from the Horse Doctor’s Mouth (which is the biggest horse podcast in the world, if I may toot their horn!) you can get a free graduate degree in horse care just by watching and listening to my docs while you ride or clean stalls. So make sure you’re taking advantage of all these resources!

Whinny’s Wisdoms is the official blog of Whinny the Clinic Mouse at Springhill Equine Veterinary Clinic in Newberry, Florida. If you liked this blog, please subscribe below, and share it with your friends on social media! For more information, please call us at (352) 472-1620, visit our website at SpringhillEquine.com, or follow us on Facebook!

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Abnormal Behaviors in Horses

Abnormal Behaviors in Horses

Oct 30, 2023 | Behavior

Whinny’s Wisdoms

Springhill Equine Veterinary Clinic

Hi, everyone! It’s Whinny, your favorite field mouse blogger. Today let’s talk about what makes horses happy. Horses are such majestic creatures. They are so big and strong, yet so gentle and graceful. They can run faster than any animal I know, and they can jump over obstacles like they are nothing. They are also very smart and loyal, and they have a special bond with humans. But do you know what makes horses happy? How do they live in the wild and in captivity? What do they eat and how do they play? What are some of the problems they face and how can we help them?

Abnormal Behaviors in Horses

First of all, let’s talk about what abnormal behaviors are. They are behaviors that horses do not normally do in the wild or in natural conditions. They are usually caused by stress, frustration, boredom, or pain. They can also affect the health and welfare of horses.

Some examples of abnormal behaviors are:

– Stereotypies: These are repetitive and meaningless movements that horses do over and over again, such as biting on wood or metal, weaving (swaying from side to side), stall-walking, head-shaking, or wind-sucking (sucking air into the mouth, also called cribbing).

– Redirected behaviors: These are behaviors that horses do to other objects or animals instead of their normal targets, such as wood-chewing, self-mutilation, aggression, or pica (eating dirt or other non-food items).

– Feeding disorders: These are behaviors that affect the way horses eat or drink, such as coprophagy (eating feces), polydipsia (drinking too much water), or anorexia (not eating enough food).

These behaviors are not good for horses. They can cause physical injuries, dental problems, digestive issues, infections, weight loss, or even death. They can also make horses unhappy, anxious, depressed, or aggressive.

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What Causes Abnormal Behaviors in Horses?

Now that you know what abnormal behaviors are, let me tell you what causes them. According to my research, there are many factors that can influence the development and prevalence of abnormal behaviors in horses. Some of them are:

– Type of housing: This is how horses are kept in captivity. Some horses live in stables with small individual stalls, where they have limited space and no contact with other horses. Other horses live in pastures or paddocks with larger areas and more social interactions.

– Diet: This is what horses eat and drink. Some horses have access to fresh grass and hay all day long, which is good for their digestion and teeth. Other horses get fed concentrated meals rich in grains and sugars twice or three times a day, which can cause stomach ulcers and colic.

– Social interactions: This is how horses communicate and relate with other horses and humans. Some horses have a lot of friends and family members that they can groom and play with. Other horses are isolated or separated from their herd mates or companions.

– Exercise: This is how much physical activity horses get. Some horses have plenty of opportunities to run, jump, explore, or compete. Other horses have little or no exercise at all.

– Climatic conditions: This is how the weather affects horses. Some horses live in regions with mild temperatures and seasons. Other horses live in areas with extreme heat or cold, rain or snow, wind or drought.

– Biological factors: This is how the genes and hormones affect horses. Some horses are born with a higher or lower tendency to develop abnormal behaviors. Other horses are influenced by their age, sex, breed, or reproductive status.

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How can we Prevent or Treat Abnormal Behaviors in Horses?

Let’s talk about how we can prevent or treat abnormal behaviors in horses. My research pointed to some ways that we can improve the welfare and happiness of horses. Some of them are:

– Providing more space and freedom: Giving horses more room to move around and express their natural behaviors. For example, we can use larger stalls, paddocks, or pastures, or allow horses to roam freely in natural environments.

– Offering more roughage: Giving horses more fiber to keep their digestive system healthy and prevent boredom. For example, we can use hay nets, slow feeders, or always provide fresh grass and hay.

– Increasing social contact: This means allowing horses to interact with other horses and humans in a positive way. For example, we can use group housing, mixed-sex herds, or companion animals, or provide regular grooming, training, or play sessions. This one is often missing from the lives of show horses.

– Enhancing exercise and enrichment: Providing horses with more physical and mental stimulation to keep them fit and happy. For example, we can use different types of riding, driving, or groundwork exercises, or provide toys, puzzles, or music.

– Adjusting climatic conditions: Protect horses from harsh weather conditions and providing them with comfort and safety. For example, we can use shelters, blankets, fans, or heaters, or avoid exposing horses to extreme temperatures or humidity.

– Considering biological factors: Taking into account the individual characteristics and needs of each horse. For example, we can use genetic testing, hormonal therapy, or behavioral therapy, or avoid breeding or using horses that are prone to abnormal behaviors.

Wow! That was a lot of information! I hope you learned something new and interesting about horses and their behaviors. I know I did! Horses are amazing animals that deserve our respect and care. They have complex emotions and needs that we should try to understand and fulfill. They also have unique personalities and preferences that we should appreciate and respect.

If we want to have happy and healthy horses, we need to provide them with a suitable environment, a balanced diet, a social life, an active lifestyle, a comfortable climate, and a personalized approach. If you want help designing a program that meets all these needs, talk to my amazing docs. They will factor in your horse, your farm, and your horse’s lifestyle to maximize happiness.

That’s it for now! Until next week,

~Whinny

P.S. There are a ton of great videos over on my YouTube Channel. Have you checked them out? Between the videos and the podcast the humans around here do, Straight from the Horse Doctor’s Mouth (which is the biggest horse podcast in the world, if I may toot their horn!) you can get a free graduate degree in horse care just by watching and listening to my docs while you ride or clean stalls. So make sure you’re taking advantage of all these resources!

Whinny’s Wisdoms is the official blog of Whinny the Clinic Mouse at Springhill Equine Veterinary Clinic in Newberry, Florida. If you liked this blog, please subscribe below, and share it with your friends on social media! For more information, please call us at (352) 472-1620, visit our website at SpringhillEquine.com, or follow us on Facebook!

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Feline Stress: Managing Emotional Wellbeing in Cats

Feline Stress: Managing Emotional Wellbeing in Cats

Oct 23, 2023 | Cats

Whinny’s Wisdoms

Springhill Equine Veterinary Clinic

Hey everybody, Whinny, your favorite clinic mouse is here today to spin a yarn about the tantalizing world of emotional well-being for cats. Now, when you’re a mouse navigating a clinic filled with these enigmatic feline creatures, you learn a thing or two about their secrets to happiness. And of course, I learned almost all of what I know from the late, great Tony. He’ll forever be remembered here at Springhill Equine. This blog and all my others are dedicated to him. So, give extra snuggles to your favorite feline friend, because we’re about to embark on a meow-gical journey into the world of cat emotional wellness.

Safe Havens and Cat Castles: Creating Stress-Free Sanctuaries

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One secret to maintaining your cats’ mental harmony lies in providing safe spaces. Whether it’s a towering cat tree or a cozy escape room, these spaces are essential for those moments when your cat needs some time to recharge. It’s a bit like having your own mouse hole to escape to when things get too hairy. These should be individualized to each feline; some prefer cave-like hideaways while others prefer freedom in the tree-dom.

Now, I must mention the importance of vertical territory. Most cats adore high perches, and these “cat castles” not only fulfill their inner jungle-cat fantasies but also serve as a refuge away from other household pets (pronounced “dogs and kids”). It’s similar to a watchtower in the midst of a bustling kingdom. Just like mice require hidey-holes, cats require cat trees of some variety. In a paw-fect world, the vertical spaces create a super highway throughout the home, giving the cat the option to leave an altercation with a dog, another cat, or a vacuum cleaner and migrate to another part of the household.

I know the world is not always perfect—if it was I’d have a lot more cheese than I do right now—so a more obtainable goal might be to have vertical territory for cats in any dead ends or narrow alleyways in the home.  

The Litter Box Labyrinth: Keeping Stress at Bay

Ah, the mystical litter box, a place of solitude and contemplation for our feline friends. It’s vital to have an ample number of these for your fur babies. Why, you ask? Well, it’s like having a choice of restrooms in a giant labyrinth. More boxes mean less stress because no cat likes to wait in line for the loo. The rule of paw is this: have one more litter box location than the number of litter box users. So you can’t just have three boxes next to each other in the garage for your two kitties because that would be only one sanitation station. This also means your only child cat gets their very own two litter box locations. Five cats? Six litter box locations. Are you picking up what I’m putting down?

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Whinny’s Wisdom: Always have one more litter box location than the number of litter box users in the home.

 Now, remember, my fellow mouse-eyed friends, the litter box isn’t just for business. Cats are incredibly finicky about cleanliness, and a dirty box is like a porta-potty at a beer and brats festival (it starts out good, but rapidly turns into a disaster). Keep it clean and pristine to keep your cat’s mood as fresh as a daisy. Scoop out those boxes at least once per day, though some cats require twice.

And of course, just like cats have individualized needs for their safe havens, some have individualized needs for their litter. If your cat starts getting pickier about their litter box, stops using it as regularly, or a new cat won’t use it at all, I recommend a “Litter Box Buffet” to determine the type of box and litter that cat prefers. Set up a variety of types of boxes and litters all in a line—separate locations don’t matter in this particular experiment—and pay attention to which strikes your feline’s fancy. Then, replace the relevant boxes with the preferred choice.

Feliway: The Pharaoh of Pharaoh-Mones

My dear readers, there’s one hidden treasure I must bring to your attention before we part: Feliway. This over-the-counter pheromone product is like the grand protector of your cat’s emotional well-being. It mimics the pheromones cats release from their cheek glands, essentially marking whatever they rub on as “safe.”

It’s like an invisible fortress that tells your cat, “Hey, this place is the bee’s knees, no need to stress.” You can use it during stressful times like vet visits, and even for everyday happiness in your cat’s favorite corners. It’s like the soothing scent of a cheese wheel to a mouse – simply irresistible. Feliway comes in a collar, a spray, and a room plug in. The collar and room plug in each last for about a month at a time. You can use all three, or pick one to two. If the issue is room specific, the plug in and maybe the spray are your best bets. If the issue is more internalized to that cat, definitely go with the collar, and maybe use the spray on a few choice things like their bed or scratch post.

When the Basics Won’t Cut It—Controlling Stress at the Vet

Stressors like vet visits and dreaded car rides can turn even the proudest of cats into frazzled furballs. But fret not; we have some tricks up our tails to help our feline friends find their inner zen. Feliway can definitely work it’s magic here—spraying down the carrier or a towel prior to take off can help remind kitties that they are still safe. Arriving to your appointment on time or just a few minutes early and giving your vet the heads up that your kitty is a bit stressed can help the staff get you into a quiet room soon to avoid nosy canines in the waiting area. Skipping breakfast that morning can help your cat be more willing to take goodies offered during the exam like Temptations treats or Churu.

For those cataclysmic cats that can’t calm despite all of the above, there’s a purr-fect solution – Gabapentin. This prescription medication can help decrease anxiety and stress, allowing our feline friends to travel or undergo necessary check-ups with much less ado. It’s like a little mood booster for those who get jittery about leaving their cozy cat-castle. Talk to your veterinarian about picking up some Gabapentin to give prior to the vet visit. Typically, we will have you give a dose the night before the big event, and then the morning of. This medication can make a few kitties wobbly on their feet, but fear not, it is very safe and it helps keep our vet team safe while we address all your kitty’s health needs.

Feline Stress Complications: Urinary Blockage

Let me remind you of a grave concern – the specter of urinary blockage. This life-threatening complication often stalks young to middle-aged, neutered male, overweight cats. Stress can play a major role in its development, hence this terrifying tangent.

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You see, when cats are stressed, they often drink less water, and this and some other factors can lead their bodies to form crystals or stones in their urinary tracts, leading to blockages. A urinary blockage in any animal is a life-threatening situation that requires immediate veterinary attention. Preventing stress with the measures we’ve discussed can be a key factor in keeping these issues at bay. It’s like protecting your castle from a mouse invasion – stress is the enemy!

A Final Paws for Thought

As we conclude this meow-gical journey into the enchanting realm of cat emotional well-being, I hope you’ve gained some insights into the delicate world of our whiskered friends. Remember, they have their quirks and eccentricities, but beneath that fur and those whiskers, they have a heart that purrs for love, comfort, and serenity.

So, give your furball plenty of safe spaces, cherish your Feliway, and create a stress-free haven for your four-legged friend. And always remember, stress is a mouse’s greatest enemy, just as it can be for your beloved feline.

Until next week, keep your tails high and your spirits higher!

~ Whinny

P.S. In case you missed the news, Adventures of the Horse Doctor’s Husband 3 is out! You can scroll down just a bit to the green banner and click on it to go to the Books page on my website and check it out. And while you’re scrolling down, pause at the purple box and subscribe to this blog, if you haven’t already! You’ll get it a day or two before everyone else, and it will show up right in your email! As Tony used to say: you’re welcome!

Whinny’s Wisdoms is the official blog of Whinny the Clinic Mouse at Springhill Equine Veterinary Clinic in Newberry, Florida. If you liked this blog, please subscribe below, and share it with your friends on social media! For more information, please call us at (352) 472-1620, visit our website at SpringhillEquine.com, or follow us on Facebook!

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How Vets Evaluate Lameness in Horses

How Vets Evaluate Lameness in Horses

Oct 15, 2023 | Lameness

Whinny’s Wisdoms

Springhill Equine Veterinary Clinic

Hi everyone, Whinny here! In the previous installment of my Lameness Series, we talked about what you might notice if your horse is lame and needs a visit with one of my Springhill vets. This week, we’re going to talk about what happens once you make that appointment! There are several parts to a lameness exam that help my vet figure out the problem, and you might see her doing some or all of these things to check out your horse. Some types of lameness are more obvious and won’t require all the steps, but for a more subtle lameness, each of them can be a piece in the puzzle to find the source of the problem.

Springhill Equine Veterinary Clinic

Physical Exam

My vet will do an exam to look and feel for abnormalities in the horse’s body. She will look at his conformation and muscle symmetry. She will check out his posture to see if he stands squarely, since abnormal stance can give clues to the areas of discomfort. His hooves and shoes will also be evaluated carefully – I’m sure you have heard the saying “No hoof, no horse” – the angles and health of the hooves are critically important to soundness. My vet will feel your horse’s limbs for heat or swelling and evaluate his tendons for thickening or pain. She’ll feel the limb pulses to look for areas of inflammation. The joints will be palpated for swelling and taken through their range of motion. The exam will often include an evaluation of the back muscles for tension or sensitivity, especially with a hind end lameness.

 Hoof Testers

You may see my vets use a big metal instrument to squeeze your horse’s hoof. That instrument is called a hoof tester and it checks for sensitivity when pressure is applied to certain areas of the hoof. My vet’s knowledge of the anatomy inside the hoof helps her to determine what pain in a certain spot means. Sensitivity in one area may indicate laminitis, whereas another spot may signify a problem with the navicular bone. Hooftesters can also be used to locate the position of a hoof abscess so my vet can open it up to drain.

Flexion Tests

You may see my vet holding up your horse’s leg for 30 or 45 seconds and then asking him to immediately trot off – that’s a flexion test. The purpose of a flexion test is to accentuate pain that may be coming from a joint, in order to localize the part of the leg that is bothering your horse or to look for a subtle problem that isn’t immediately apparent. Specific joints are flexed in turn to check the response to that area. If your horse has an arthritic hock, for example, flexing the hock may make him trot off more lame than he was without the flexion. That can help my vet determine the part of the leg that needs treatment. Flexion tests aren’t always a black or white answer, but they can be a useful puzzle piece in some cases. My vet uses her experience to know the appropriate position, time, and pressure for a flexion test, since it’s possible to get an inaccurate assessment if you flex the joint too hard or for too long. It’s also useful for her to flex the same joint on both the left and right sides to compare how the horse responds.

Springhill Equine Veterinary Clinic

Nerve or Joint Blocks

Have you ever gone to the dentist and had a shot to make your tooth numb for a filling? That’s basically the same thing as a nerve block my vet may use during a lameness exam. When my vet “blocks out” an area on your horse’s leg, she is temporarily numbing it to see if that region is the source of the pain. If the correct spot is numbed, your horse won’t look lame anymore since he won’t feel the pain. Unless there is an obvious abnormal finding on her physical exam, my vet will inject a numbing agent into specific anatomical areas until she finds the one that takes away the lameness. Nerve blocks are an injection to directly numb a nerve and the area it supplies feeling to, while joint blocks will inject the numbing agent right into a joint, which is a sterile procedure. Blocks only lasts a couple of hours though, so don’t confuse them for a permanent treatment, they are just a way of finding where the problem is so it can receive the appropriate therapy.

Imaging

Once my vet has determined which leg your horse is sore on and which part of the leg is the problem, she will often recommend imaging to get a look at what’s going on inside. This is most often an X-ray (radiograph) or ultrasound. Generally speaking, X-rays look at bone and ultrasound looks at soft tissues such as tendons.

Occasionally, advanced imaging such as CT or MRI is needed, but the majority of cases can be diagnosed with the imaging equipment my vet carries in her truck. Once a specific diagnosis is made, she can recommend the best treatment to get your horse sound and back doing those things you want to do with him!

If your horse has something going on, make sure to give my team here at Springhill Equine a call to schedule a lameness evaluation. They are amazing at what they do!

Until next week,

~Whinny

P.S. Are you missing out? In addition to my amazing blog, this website also has the biggest equine podcast in the world, a huge video library filled with how-to’s and seminars, a series of best-selling books, and direct access to some of the best equine veterinarians on the planet! I’m just a small (pun intended!) part of a fabulous team of equine professionals here at Springhill, and I want to make sure you are taking advantage of everything we have to offer. And most of it is free! So take a minute to explore the rest of the website while you’re here. I promise you’ll find something you can use to make the world a better place for your horse.

Whinny’s Wisdoms is the official blog of Whinny the Clinic Mouse at Springhill Equine Veterinary Clinic in Newberry, Florida. If you liked this blog, please subscribe below, and share it with your friends on social media! For more information, please call us at (352) 472-1620, visit our website at SpringhillEquine.com, or follow us on Facebook!

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Toxic Plants and Horses

Toxic Plants and Horses

Oct 9, 2023 | Poisonous Plants

Whinny’s Wisdoms

Springhill Equine Veterinary Clinic

Hey everybody, Whinny here! Horses can be exposed to and graze on plants that can be harmful or even fatal. More often than not, horses will choose good quality grass or hay over a toxic weed or plant, especially if they have a good mouse friend to keep them out of trouble. However, over grazed pastures and the natural environment of Florida can predispose horses to be exposed to some toxic plants. In this blog post, we’ll explore several poisonous plants commonly encountered by horses: Red Maple, Acorns, Nightshade, Pokeweed, Creeping Indigo, and Fireweed. Understanding these plants and their potential dangers is critical for ensuring the well-being of our equine friends.

Red Maple (Acer rubrum)

   Red maple leaves, especially when wilted, contain a toxin called gallic acid, which attacks red blood cells. Ingestion of even a small amount of these leaves can lead to hemolytic anemia, methemoglobinemia, and potentially death in horses. Symptoms may include lethargy, dark urine, blue colored mucous membranes, jaundice, and colic.

Whinny’s Wisdom: Immediate treatment is crucial, including intravenous fluids, and supportive care.

Nightshade (Solanum spp.)

  Nightshade plants, known for their bell-shaped flowers and berries, contain the toxic alkaloid, atropine. Our savvy readers may be familiar with atropine as a topical used in treating eye conditions to dilate the pupil in certain situations. Ingestion can cause dilated pupils, nervousness, and irregular heartbeat. Luckily, the plant is bitter and not often eaten if there’s other food available.

Whinny’s Wisdom: Promptly diagnose and treat nightshade poisoning to minimize symptoms and complications.

Acorns (Quercus spp.)

   Acorns from oak trees are toxic to horses, primarily due to the presence of tannins. Ingesting acorns can lead to gastrointestinal upset, colic, and kidney damage. Chronic exposure may result in metabolic issues and laminitis.

Whinny’s Wisdom: Managing pastures to minimize exposure and providing ample forage alternatives can help prevent acorn ingestion.

Pokeweed (Phytolacca americana)

   Pokeweed is a significant concern for horses, as all parts of the plant are toxic and contain saponins, oxalates, and phytolacine. It can lead to severe gastrointestinal issues, including colic and diarrhea.

Whinny’s Wisdom: Early intervention is key, and treatment may include fluid therapy and medications to manage symptoms.

 Creeping Indigo (Indigofera spicata)

    Creeping indigo poses a serious threat due to its palatability to horses. Horses that consume this plant may experience a wide range of symptoms that could include corneal edema, mucosal ulcerations or neurologic signs that can range from dull attitude to narcoleptic-like behavior.

 Whinny’s Wisdom: Immediate veterinary attention is necessary to address neurological symptoms and provide supportive care. Heavy trafficked or overgrazed areas can perpetuate the weed.

 Fireweed (Urtica chamaedroides)

  Fireweed, also known as Heartleaf Nettle, contains stinging hairs that can irritate the skin and mucous membranes of horses. Ingestion can lead to lethargy or difficulty swallowing. More commonly, horses are seen due to urticaria, or hives, from skin contact. This plant can cause severe discomfort to the skin and horses may appear to have colic or neurologic signs.

 Whinny’s Wisdom: Address skin irritation promptly with appropriate care and remove fireweed from pastures if it is identified. It can often be found in areas with sparse grass growth, like feeding areas or near fence lines.

Conclusion

As veterinarians, it’s my docs’ responsibility to educate horse owners about the dangers of toxic plants like Red Maple, Acorns, Nightshade, Pokeweed, Creeping Indigo, and Fireweed. Encourage pasture management practices that minimize exposure to these plants and emphasize the importance of early intervention in cases of plant poisoning. By working together, we can ensure the health and safety of our equine patients and provide them with the best possible care.

Until next week,

~Whinny

P.S. Have you subscribed to this blog? Don’t rely on Facebook to let you know it’s out! If you’ll scroll down a bit more to the big purple box and give me your email address, I’ll send the blog right to you, and a day before it goes out to everyone else! Don’t take a chance on missing out on my mousy wisdom!

Whinny’s Wisdoms is the official blog of Whinny the Clinic Mouse at Springhill Equine Veterinary Clinic in Newberry, Florida. If you liked this blog, please subscribe below, and share it with your friends on social media! For more information, please call us at (352) 472-1620, visit our website at SpringhillEquine.com, or follow us on Facebook!

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What Does Lameness Look Like?

What Does Lameness Look Like?

Oct 1, 2023 | Lameness

Whinny’s Wisdoms

Springhill Equine Veterinary Clinic

Hi everyone, Whinny here! It’s starting to cool off a teeny bit here in Florida, and a lot of you are gearing up for the riding season! We don’t want anything to get in the way of the fun stuff you’re planning with your horse this Autumn. My Springhill Equine vets love to keep your horse feeling good and performing up to his potential, no matter whether you’re a show jumper, reiner, trail rider, or anything in between!

Lameness evaluation and treatment is one of the most common things they work on. But the first step is for you to recognize the start of an issue at home, so let’s talk about what to look for. Some lameness is really obvious, like if your horse is limping badly on one foot, but a lot of the time it’s much more subtle! You may just notice a change in his performance, such as trouble making tight turns around the barrel, difficulty picking up one canter lead, or acting cranky out on the trails. Once you notice something is amiss, here’s what my vets will look for when they’re evaluating your horse move.

What does lameness look like?

If you drive by my clinic, you will often see horses being trotted up and down the grass outside the clinic while my vets watch them. This is the Springhill technicians’ favorite part of the day. They just love the healthy exercise, especially at noon in July and August! 

So what does it look like when a horse is lame? It can be an obvious limp in a forelimb lameness. Your horse may not want to bear weight on the leg or may have a pronounced “head bob” when he walks or trots. For a forelimb lameness, think “down on sound” – meaning the head bobs downwards when the sound (non-lame) leg hits the ground. So, if the head bobs down when the left front foot hits the ground, the lameness is on the right front leg. For a mild lameness, there may not be a super obvious head bob, especially when he’s moving on a straight line. My vets will also listen to the sound of his footfalls – a lame horse will land softer on the foot that hurts, as he shifts his weight to avoid pain. If both forelimbs hurt equally, you might not see a head bob, but your horse could look stiff when he’s moving, or rock his weight back onto his hind end to take weight off the front.

Springhill Equine Veterinary Clinic

Hindlimb lameness is evaluated differently than forelimb lameness. It may look like a “hip hike”, toe dragging, or a shortened stride on the lame hindlimb. It can also just manifest as problems picking up or keeping the canter leads, lack of impulsion, or even “crow hopping” or bucking.  Don’t worry if you aren’t sure, hindlimb lameness can be tricky to see – that’s what my vets are for. If you’re feeling like something doesn’t seem right, just call us!

Some lameness is more subtle than others. If your horse is quite sore, my vets may just need to see him walk and may not need him to trot. For most lameness cases though, the horse is evaluated at the trot, because the symmetrical nature of the normal trot gait makes abnormalities more apparent. Sometimes my vet will ask to see a horse canter to check out how the hind end moves. She’ll want to see the horse move on a straight line and may want to see him moving in a circle (such as on a longe line) to see how positioning his limbs on the inside or outside of the circle will affect his lameness. Some lameness is only noticeable when the horse is turning. The ground surface makes a difference too – your horse may look fine on grass or soft sand but be sore when the ground is harder. That’s typical of a hoof problem or arthritis. A soft tissue injury like tendinitis may be more painful on deep, soft footing. So my vet may ask her tech to jog your horse on an asphalt surface instead of the grass to check out the difference.

Here’s one thing I want you to understand – horses don’t lie about lameness. Their brains don’t work that way. Your horse isn’t “faking” a lameness when you ride him just because he doesn’t look as lame when you see him cantering in the field. He isn’t capable of that. Some things, like the additional weight of carrying a rider, or the specific motions he is asked to do under saddle, just make a lameness more apparent. So, if you notice lameness when you ride, just schedule a lameness exam with my vets instead of thinking your horse is being tricksy.

In my next blog on the lameness exam, we’ll talk about the steps my Springhill vets take to determine what’s hurting your horse, and how to help him!

Until next week,

~Whinny

P.S. Did you know the humans here at Springhill Equine have the biggest, most popular equine veterinary podcast in the world? It’s called Straight from the Horse Doctor’s Mouth. Each episode (and there are over 130 and counting) covers a horse-health topic and is directed at horse owners so they can learn how to take the best care of their horses. You can check it out right over on the Podcast Page of my website, or subscribe on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you get your podcasts.

Whinny’s Wisdoms is the official blog of Whinny the Clinic Mouse at Springhill Equine Veterinary Clinic in Newberry, Florida. If you liked this blog, please subscribe below, and share it with your friends on social media! For more information, please call us at (352) 472-1620, visit our website at SpringhillEquine.com, or follow us on Facebook!

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Fall is in the Air—and the Pasture

Fall is in the Air—and the Pasture

Sep 25, 2023 | Cold weather, Pastures

Whinny’s Wisdoms

Springhill Equine Veterinary Clinic

Hey everybody, Whinny here! As fall ushers in cooler temperatures and changing pastures, horse owners are met with the promise of crisp, cool air and the joys of fall riding. But as the seasons change, so too should your horse’s diet. Fall is a critical time to ensure your equine companion’s management is optimized for health. Remember, proper nutrition has almost nothing to do with supplements and almost everything to do with the diet we feed—including pasture. Diet is also what most impacts the pillars on which horse health stands: their hooves!

Being a resident of Springhill Equine’s pastures, I can tell you that Florida foliage does not change as much as it would up north (I have cousins living in a barn in Wisconsin). Things stay mostly green here and we don’t often have to worry about frost or *shudder* snow. But, this mouse knows the only constant in life is change, so here are some tips and tricks to managing that change for your horses (with a bonus snack idea at the end!)

Pasture Upkeep

As fall approaches, the quality of your horse’s pasture may change. Grasses tend to mature, becoming less lush and lower in nutritional value. It’s essential to regularly assess the state of your pasture to ensure it can still provide adequate nutrition for your horses. Implementing pasture rotation is an excellent strategy to manage fall grazing. By dividing your total pasture into large sections and rotating your horses between them, you allow the grass in one area to recover while your horses graze in another. This practice helps maintain better pasture quality throughout the season.

If you have other animals such as cattle or goats, you can rotate them through after the horses to help clean up parasites. In cases where your pasture quality decreases significantly, or if you have limited access to pasture, you may need to supplement your horse’s diet with additional forage. High-quality hay is an excellent option and provides the necessary fiber, vitamins, and minerals your horse needs.

Springhill Equine Veterinary Clinic

Calorie Management

It’s always essential to monitor your horse’s weight and adjust their diet accordingly. Consult with your veterinarian or equine nutritionist to determine if additional forage or dietary changes are needed. Check the back of the bag of any of your horse feeds for contact information for their nutrition consultants. These awesome humans are a drastically underutilized resource! For some of our beloved ponies that get fat on air, fall can be a time of relaxation for owners as their little gremlins can’t get quite as many calories. But, for the senior thoroughbred, fall may mean an increase in hay or concentrated feeds to keep those ribs covered!

Hydration

As temperatures drop, horses may drink less water. Ensure they have access to clean, fresh water at all times to prevent dehydration. Consider adding a heated water source to prevent water from freezing in colder regions. We all love our fall beverages (PSL anyone?), why don’t you try adding a bit of grain or molasses to one of your horses’ water buckets to encourage them to drink? Some creative humans even offer “water buffets” to their horses—different buckets with different mix-ins: plain, grain, molasses, apple juice, carrot juice, salt, Gatorade, etc. I notice I haven’t been offered a fondue buffet yet…

Springhill Equine Veterinary Clinic

Whinny’s Wisdom: Moderation in all things! ANY change to your horse’s diet or management should be made gradually.

 Proper pasture management and hydration are crucial components of fall horse care. By monitoring your pasture, adjusting your horse’s diet as needed, and ensuring they have consistent access to clean, unfrozen water, you can help your equine companions stay healthy and comfortable throughout the autumn season. Regular communication with your veterinarian can provide further guidance tailored to your horse’s specific needs. 

Alright, now that we’ve gotten the blog done, here’s the bonus content I promised–surprise, it’s a recipe blog! You can call me Chef Whinny, now!

Here’s a simple recipe for homemade pumpkin horse treats:

Pumpkin Horse Treats

Ingredients:

– 2 cups of rolled oats

– 1 cup of canned pumpkin puree (make sure it’s pure pumpkin without added sugar or spices)

– 1/4 cup of unsweetened applesauce

– 1/4 cup of molasses

– 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon

– 1/2 teaspoon of ground nutmeg

– 1/2 teaspoon of ground ginger

– 1/2 teaspoon of salt

Instructions:

  1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
  1. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the rolled oats, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, ground ginger, and salt. Mix them well to distribute the spices evenly throughout the oats.
  1. Add Wet Ingredients: Add the canned pumpkin puree, unsweetened applesauce, and molasses to the dry ingredients. Mix everything together until you have a sticky dough-like consistency. You can use a wooden spoon or your hands to do this.
  1. Shape the Treats: Take small portions of the dough and roll them into bite-sized balls or shape them into fun cookie-cutter shapes using horse-themed cookie cutters if you have them. Place the treats on the prepared baking sheet, leaving some space between each.
  1. Bake: Bake the treats in the preheated oven for about 15-20 minutes or until they are firm and slightly browned on the edges. Keep an eye on them to prevent overcooking.
  1. Cool: Once baked, remove the treats from the oven and let them cool completely on a wire rack. They will firm up as they cool.
  1. Store: Store the pumpkin horse treats in an airtight container. They can be kept at room temperature for a few days or in the refrigerator for longer shelf life.

These homemade pumpkin horse treats are a delicious and nutritious way to spoil your equine friend during the fall season. Remember to feed them in moderation, as treats should be a supplement to your horse’s regular diet. Enjoy making and sharing these tasty treats with your horse, and make sure to leave some nice crumbles for your friendly clinic mouse!

Until next week,

~Whinny

P.S. Did you know the humans here at Springhill Equine have the biggest, most popular equine veterinary podcast in the world? It’s called Straight from the Horse Doctor’s Mouth. Each episode (and there are over 130 and counting) covers a horse-health topic and is directed at horse owners so they can learn how to take the best care of their horses. You can check it out right over on the Podcast Page of my website, or subscribe on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you get your podcasts.

Whinny’s Wisdoms is the official blog of Whinny the Clinic Mouse at Springhill Equine Veterinary Clinic in Newberry, Florida. If you liked this blog, please subscribe below, and share it with your friends on social media! For more information, please call us at (352) 472-1620, visit our website at SpringhillEquine.com, or follow us on Facebook!

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The Very Basics of Saddle Fit

The Very Basics of Saddle Fit

Sep 18, 2023 | Saddles

Whinny’s Wisdoms

Springhill Equine Veterinary Clinic

Hey everybody, Whinny here! I’m going to start with: I know what you’re thinking – “What does a little mouse like Whinny know about saddles and horses?” Well, let me tell you, I’ve been scurrying around these parts long enough to pick up a thing or two, and today, I’m going to let you in on a little secret – saddle fit for horses!

You see, saddle fit is a lot like finding the perfect pair of jeans. You wouldn’t want to wear pants that are too tight or too loose, right? Well, horses feel the same way about their saddles. If a saddle doesn’t fit them just right, it can cause all sorts of problems. So, grab your lassos and saddle up, because we’re going on a wild ride through the world of saddle fit.

The Basics of Saddle Fit

First things first, let’s talk about the basics of saddle fit. A saddle is like a cozy chair for our horsey pals, and just like us, they want it to be comfy. There are a few key things to consider when it comes to saddle fit:

  1. The Width of the Saddle Tree: The saddle tree is the frame that sits on a horse’s back. It needs to be the right width to match the shape of the horse’s back. If it’s too narrow, it can pinch and cause discomfort. If it’s too wide, it might wobble and make the horse feel like it’s carrying a seesaw. 
  2. The Length of the Saddle: The saddle’s length should match the horse’s back, too. If it’s too long, it can dig into the horse’s loins, and if it’s too short, it might not distribute the rider’s weight properly.
  3. The Gullet Clearance: The gullet is the space under the saddle that gives room for the horse’s spine. It should have enough clearance so it doesn’t press down on the horse’s back. Think of it like a limbo dance – the saddle has to clear that bar!

Springhill Equine Veterinary Clinic

Those first three are nearly impossible to fix with pads or shims or anything else. They are the basic framework of the saddle.

  1. Even Pressure:The saddle should distribute the rider’s weight evenly across the horse’s back. If there are pressure points or sore spots, it’s like having a pebble in your boot – mighty uncomfortable!
  2. Balance: Just like a rider needs to balance in the saddle, the saddle itself should sit evenly on the horse’s back. If it’s tilted or crooked, it can cause all sorts of trouble for the rider and the horse.

How to Tell if the Saddle Fits

Now that we’ve covered the basics of saddle fit, let’s dive deeper into how to determine if a saddle is a good fit for your four-legged friend. Saddle fit is crucial for your horse’s comfort and well-being, so let’s be thorough:

  1. The Pinch Test: Run your fingers along the sides of the saddle tree. If it feels like it’s pinching or digging into the horse’s back, it’s time to rethink that saddle. Remember, the saddle should provide gentle contact without causing discomfort or pressure points.
  1. The Gullet Check: Look underneath the saddle – is there enough clearance for the horse’s spine? You don’t want it rubbing or pressing on that sensitive area. Ideally, there should be about two to three fingers’ width of space between the saddle and the horse’s spine to ensure proper clearance.
  1. The Sore Spot Scan: After a ride, thoroughly examine your horse’s back for any sore spots or rub marks. Pay close attention to areas where the saddle’s panels make contact with the horse’s back. Sore spots may indicate that the saddle is not distributing pressure evenly, and adjustments or a different saddle may be necessary.
  1. The Wobble Test: When you’re in the saddle, check if it wobbles or rocks back and forth. A stable saddle is essential for the rider’s balance and the horse’s comfort. An unstable saddle can create an unsettling ride experience and lead to discomfort or injury for both rider and horse.
  1. The Balance Test: Get a friend to watch you ride. If that saddle looks tilted or crooked, it’s time for some saddle shopping! An imbalanced saddle can cause the rider to sit unevenly and put uneven pressure on the horse’s back. A well-balanced saddle helps maintain a healthy and comfortable riding posture.
  1. Observe Your Horse’s Behavior: Pay attention to your horse’s behavior while riding. Signs of saddle discomfort may include tail swishing, head tossing, resistance to being saddled, or reluctance to move freely. A horse that’s constantly trying to communicate discomfort is telling you it’s time to reevaluate the saddle fit.
  1. Consult a Professional: When in doubt, seek the guidance of a professional saddle fitter or a knowledgeable equine veterinarian. These experts can assess saddle fit more comprehensively, considering factors such as your horse’s conformation, muscle development, and any unique needs.

  2. Regularly Reassess: A horse’s shape can change over time due to factors like age, training, and muscle development. It’s essential to regularly reassess saddle fit to ensure that it continues to provide comfort and performance benefits for both rider and horse.

    Springhill Equine Veterinary Clinic

    By following these detailed steps and continuously monitoring your horse’s well-being, you can ensure that your saddle fits correctly and promotes the health, comfort, and happiness of your equine companion. Remember, a happy horse makes for a happy rider, and together, you’ll be ready to conquer any riding adventure that comes your way!

    So, next time you’re gearing up for a ride, take a close look at that saddle. Make sure it’s snug as a mouse in a hay pile, and you’ll be off to the races in no time. 

    Until next week,

    ~Whinny

    P.S. Have you seen the latest Horse Girl Goes to the Vet video over on my YouTube Channel? There’s a lot of great content there, with more being added all the time. It’s a great free resource filled with high-quality horse health information, so don’t miss out!

    Whinny’s Wisdoms is the official blog of Whinny the Clinic Mouse at Springhill Equine Veterinary Clinic in Newberry, Florida. If you liked this blog, please subscribe below, and share it with your friends on social media! For more information, please call us at (352) 472-1620, visit our website at SpringhillEquine.com, or follow us on Facebook!

    Subscribe to Whinny's Wisdoms

    Enter your email address to subscribe to this blog and receive notifications of new posts by email.

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