My horse is lame – What should I do?

Sometimes the cause of lameness can be immediately or quickly apparent, for example a foot abscess or laminitis. Other times, often with more subtle lameness, a further investigation known as a lameness work up (LWU), is required to reach a diagnosis.

What should I do when I first notice my horse is lame?

In all cases of lameness, no matter how sudden the onset, it is advised to seek veterinary attention. If the cause of lameness is easily located, treatment can begin immediately, or referral made into one of our clinics for a LWU.

Should I give bute?

It is advisable to wait until the initial veterinary assessment has taken place before giving a horse pain relief, unless otherwise advised by the vet over the phone. The vet may recommend a 10-14 day period of rest (usually box rest) and bute in the first instance, as some minor causes of lameness can be resolved in this way. If the lameness persists, or recurs, then often a LWU is advised, and bute should be stopped 48 hours prior to attending the clinic.

LWU at NWEV – where to take my horse?

NWEV offer LWU at all three of our clinics, providing an excellent local service, and saving our clients time and stress in travelling. We have a team of vets with a keen interest in lameness diagnostics and imaging, with a breadth and depth of experience in this area. We pride ourselves on offering a very personal experience, with the vet dedicated to your horse for most or all of the day. We also offer ridden assessment of lameness or poor performance. We offer digital radiography and ultrasonography, and if advanced imaging is required (MRI/CT) we are best placed to refer your horse and signpost you in the direction of trusted imaging teams. We work closely with our referral centers to provide a continuation of care.

What treatments are available through NWEV?

We offer a full range of treatments from joint medications to shockwave. Our visiting surgeon Phil Cramp BSc BVM&S MS Dip ACVS & ECVS MRCVS American and European Specialist in Equine Surgery from Hambleton Equine visits our Rathmell clinic to perform arthroscopy and other elective orthopaedic and soft tissue surgery. We also work closely with trusted paraprofessionals such as farriers and physios to provide a holistic whole horse approach to recovery and rehabilitation.

Why don’t I just get my horse’s hocks injected?

While sometimes the cause of lameness can be easily identified based on strong clinical suspicion, this is not always the case. Medicating horse’s joints carries associated risks, some of which can life threatening if untreated. Therefore, it is of the upmost importance that the necessary diagnostics have been performed prior to undergoing treatment.

At NWEV we strive to provide a gold standard in lameness diagnostics and we will look after the needs of you and your horse to achieve the best outcomes possible.

Contact us today to discuss your horse’s needs 0808 168 5580 or 01254 888 600