Lameness & Respiratory Problems in Horses

Lameness and respiratory problems are among the biggest health issues facing today's horse owners. Not only can these two problems limit the time they spend riding and working with their horses, they can also have a serious impact on their finances.

  1. Lameness Problems

    • Lameness problems in horses can range from the easily cured misplaced nail in a shoe all the way to laminitis, which can have life-threatening consequences. Between these two extremes are sole bruises, hoof abscesses and traumatic injuries.

    Respiratory Problems

    • Many respiratory problems are linked to the equine environment. Horses that are stabled seem to be more predisposed to asthma and heaves, the severest of equine respiratory diseases. Partial paralysis of the larynx and exercise-induced pulmonary hemorrhage are other respiratory problems that can severely limit athletic performance.

    Solutions

    • While many lameness problems go away after rest, others like laminitis may require a change in management, especially in diet. Many respiratory conditions can also be improved by changes in management and environment, mainly by limiting exposure to dust and known allergens.