Deer Creek Equine Clinic

05/15/2026

Today’s “not every choke is actually a choke” case!

We were called out to examine a horse suspected of choking, but after a sedated oral exam, the real culprit was discovered — a piece of wood lodged inside the horse’s mouth.

Thankfully, once the obstruction was removed, the horse was much more comfortable and is doing well.

Cases like this are a good reminder that oral discomfort, difficulty eating, drooling, or choke-like symptoms can sometimes have unexpected causes that are only discovered with a thorough sedated exam.

05/07/2026

Hoof health comes from nutrition, not just farrier care. Balanced diets help support hoof growth, structure, and long-term soundness.

05/05/2026

05/05/2026

Equine endocrine disorders such as Equine Metabolic Syndrome (EMS) and Pituitary Pars Intermedia Dysfunction (PPID) feature some striking clinical similarities, most notably a predisposition to the development of chronic laminitis. However, the underlying disease biology is quite different in each case.

This graphic describes some key differences to be aware of between the two diseases.

If you have questions or concerns about your horse in regard to EMS or PPID, contact your veterinarian so that they may further evaluate them.

Thank you to the Horse Owner Education Committee for providing this information.

04/30/2026

Here’s why equine metabolic syndrome can affect horses with a healthy body condition and how you can monitor and manage these animals.

04/23/2026

04/22/2026

Some good information here. If you have questions about your horses' health, give us a call and make sure your horse is up to date on their vaccines.

Questions about EHV-1 and how you can protect your barn? 🩺 Check out the resources below.

🎥 Watch the EHV-1 and Biosecurity webinar replay here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ObB8Zp7kOjM&list=PLkdGSxID6G_d9Taes5vW_NiovlQNWrb2j&index=9&t=4s

💻 Biosecurity measures overview, best practices, and more: https://www.usef.org/learn/equine-health/biosecurity-measures

Further questions should be directed to the USEF Equine Health Team at [email protected].

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04/16/2026

https://ceh.vetmed.ucdavis.edu/health-topics/laminitis

Laminitis is inflammation and damage of the tissue between the hoof and the underlying coffin bone.

04/15/2026

TUESDAY TIDBITS: EQUINE DENTAL HEALTH 🦷

Equine dental health is not only crucial for keeping your equine companion's pearly whites healthy but also for the overall health of the animal in general.

Common dental issues such as the ones mentioned in the graphic can negatively affect the health of the teeth themselves as well as gum, gastrointestinal, and overall mouth health. Dental issues can also impact chewing and food grinding, further exacerbating digestive tract issues.

Has your horse struggled with any of these dental issues before? Let us know below ⬇️

As always, if you have questions or concerns about your horse's dental health, contact your equine veterinarian.

04/06/2026

WHAT IS LEPTOSPIROSIS? 🔎

Leptospirosis is a bacterial infection horses can pick up from contaminated urine, reproductive fluids, or contaminated water/soil. Risk is higher with stagnant water, flooding/heavy rain, and exposure to wildlife/rodents.

Leptospirosis is most known for affecting the kidneys, pregnancy, and eyes. The main syndromes associated with it are:

• Kidney disease (acute renal failure): may include fever, not eating, changes in urine production, and abnormal kidney bloodwork; urine testing may show blood/inflammation.

• Pregnancy loss / foal illness: can cause placentitis, abortion (often late-term, typically after 8 months), or a sick newborn foal (weakness, jaundice).

• Equine recurrent uveitis (ERU): a painful, recurring eye inflammation that can happen months to years after the original infection and can threaten vision.

🩺 Symptoms of Leptospirosis can include:
• Fever, dullness, not eating
• Changes in urination or signs of illness consistent with kidney trouble
• Abortion, especially late in pregnancy (sometimes with no warning signs)
• Eye pain/squinting/recurring eye inflammation

Prevention:
An equine-approved vaccine is available. Talk to your veterinarian to discuss your horse's suitability and the appropriate vaccination protocol for your specific situation.

⚠️Human safety note:
Some types of Leptospira serovars can infect people. Use care while handling urine or aborted tissues/fluids and involve your veterinarian promptly.

If you have questions or concerns about Leptospirosis in regard to your equines, contact your veterinarian.