Horse Lameness:

Though our pets are our best friends, unfortunately, they cannot discuss their problems with us.



They are completely dependent on us when they are sick. This is especially true in horses; they do not make any sounds when they are not feeling all too well. The only way to tell that a horse is not well is to observe it closely and figure out if the horse has been hurt somewhere.

People who work with horses have to be very vigilant while observing the animals. A horse that has been in pain for a long time may go lame if not treated properly. In a lot of cases, the lameness that the horse experiences is only temporary.



However, if the horse doesn’t receive proper treatment, the lameness can become impossible to treat. In some cases, lameness can be chronic and therefore, untreatable. In such cases, the horse suffers immensely and treatment can no longer bring the horse’s comfort to an acceptable level. It is, therefore, all the more important that the horse receives proper treatment.

If you observe your horse closely, especially when it is trotting, you will be able to observe the symptoms of lameness in horse. If the horse is hurt in only one leg, it will not be able to move evenly. The horse will also hesitate in shifting its weight from one leg to the other. If the horse is hurt in both the legs, it will be barely able to move around.

Another evident sign of lameness in horses is the position of the head when it is trotting. If the horse is hurt in any of its front legs, it can be found throwing its head around while trotting. The movement of the head is usually in rhythm with its stride. When the lameness affects the hind legs, the horse tends to lean over, shifting its weight to the leg which is sound. Sometimes, if the pain is severe, the horse may drag its legs from the sore side.

The standing position of the horse also changes when the horse is going lame. While standing, the horse will tend to point the leg which is sore out in order to keep from putting weight on it. If you feel that your horse is not being itself or if you observe any of these signs of lameness, take it to a veterinarian immediately. It is important for your horse to get immediate treatment or you will not be able to save your horse’s leg.