Lameness is any alteration of the horse's gait, but can also include a change in attitude or performance, due to pain in the neck, withers, shoulders, back, loin, hips, legs or feet. The basic examination starts by watching the horse walk, trot and canter in a straight line, toward and away from the veterinarian, followed by a flexion test whereby the animals leg is held in a flexed position for 30-60 seconds. The horse is then trotted off for its gait to be analyzed for abnormalities and unevenness. Lameness examinations are routine in most purchase examinations. When the veterinarian evaluates the animal being considered for purchase, learning about impending problems can assist potential owners in making a more informed decision.

Joint Injections:

When a horse has multiple sources of pain, identifying the exact location can be challenging. Once confirmed that a horse has a joint problem, injections may be recommended to prevent further damage and provide comfort and relief to the horse while attempting to pinpoint the exact location of the pain. Steroid and hyaluronic injections can decrease inflammation, lubricate the joint, and protect the cartilage for the long term, especially when treating arthritis. We currently offer injections to the following joints:

• Hocks
• Stifles
• Fetlocks
• Carpus
• Coffins