Northwest Equine Services

07/23/2024

Movement Asymmetry: Biological variation or lameness?

Veterinarian’s often use movement asymmetry to assess lameness. However, after years of research into equine biomechanics, we have realized that perfect movement symmetry is uncommon. This raises a crucial question: Does asymmetry always equal pain?

The way forward is to monitor your horse’s gait pattern over time to establish what is normal. This is possible with Sleip gait analysis, which allows the veterinarian to capture asymmetry data using a smartphone. By tracking gait changes, you can gain valuable insights:

Establish a baseline: Observe your horse's gait and establish a baseline when they're in full training and supposed to be sound. This becomes a reference point for future comparisons.

Identify subtle changes: If asymmetries appear or existing ones worsen with increased training, it might warrant further investigation for lameness.

Peace of mind: Consistent subtle asymmetries that don't change might be a normal variation for your horse.

Call today to schedule gait assessment of your horse!!

12/27/2023

It’s that time of year!

09/01/2022

* WARNING * On a farm call today we went and looked at an eye that was concerning to the owner. Doctor Turchi confirmed it is a tumor, he suggested the horse come to the clinic sometime next week for third eyelid removal.

07/07/2022

This little fella was born on the Fourth of July! His IGG was low, but after some plasma and lots of mommas milk he is perking up and has an adorable personality.

06/13/2022

Removing casts can be difficult sometimes 😂 Tech Sydney and Doctor Turchi are attempting to remove this cast from a couple of weeks ago, it finally came off after some leg work!

12/14/2021

01/27/2021

Farm call at the University of Arkansas yesterday to float teeth. And yes, we are able to float the little ones, too!

01/13/2021

Baby Doll came to us today with a swollen area in her hind fetlock and a limp. After a lameness exam and an ultrasound, Dr. Turchi found that her superficial digital flexor tendon had been torn. She’s got about 6-8 months of recovery ahead of her.
Lameness can be caused by trauma, infection, metabolic disorders, nervous or circulatory system disease, congenital or acquired disorders. We are able to ultrasound or X-Ray in the clinic. If you have questions about a lameness, call our clinic at (479)521-5558.

01/06/2021

Today we had newly rescued, Chip, come in with a smelly, swollen mouth and suspected an abscessed tooth. A tooth located on the top left had cracked and partially fell out. Dr. Turchi extracted the rest of the splintered tooth fragments (as shown in picture 3). Horses teeth continue to erupt which has caused the bottom tooth to grow significantly longer. Because of this, Dr. Turchi floated (or filed down) Chip’s teeth. It is important that any horse with a missing tooth/ teeth have yearly dental exams to make sure the opposite tooth is not over grown and possibly packing feed in gums.

12/22/2020

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