‘Keep horse on move’ (From Gazette & Herald)

‘Keep horse on move’

9:00am Wednesday 8th February 2012 in Equestrian

AS the winter weather holds the country firmly in its icy grip, vets are urging horse owners to keep their horses moving and minimise the risk of colic.

Practices around the country witness an increase in the number of colic cases during periods of harsh wintry conditions.

Not all riders have the facility of an indoor school or horse walker but any exercise is better than none at all, even just a walk in-hand around the stable yard, arena or turnout paddock.

“Horses are less likely to be exercised in bad weather and as the gastro-intestinal tract is related to limb movement, this can slow down and get impacted,” said Tim Greet from Rossdales Equine Hospital in Newmarket.

“We advise getting them out as much as you can.”

Colic is the veterinary term used to describe the behavioural signs associated with abdominal pain. Clinical signs may include some or all of the following – flank watching, restlessness, pawing at the ground, rolling, sweating and rapid breathing. A horse with colic will show varying symptoms depending on the cause of the colic, the length of time it has been present and the stoicism of the patient.

The key to success is early diagnosis and treatment so it is advisable to phone your veterinary surgeon immediately if your horse is showing signs of colic.

Walking the horse may help to assist the dispersal of any trapped gas but do not attempt to take the horse out of its stable unless it is totally safe to do so.

Here are some practical suggestions to help minimise the risk of colic:

• be aware of the parasite status of your horses and use appropriate control measures

• regular dental care has been shown to reduce the risk of certain types of colic

• horses are creatures of habit and any changes in routine or diet can be trigger factors for colic episodes. Any dietary changes should be implemented gradually

• always ensure that your horse has an adequate supply of fresh drinking water