11/11/2024
Spotting signs of unsoundness in a horse early on is crucial to managing their health and well-being.
Here are five tips to help you identify if your horse may be unsound:
☑️ Watch for Changes in Movement
Look for signs of uneven or irregular gait, head bobbing, or shortened strides. If your horse appears to be "off" or is favoring one leg, it might indicate discomfort or lameness.
☑️ Observe Body Language
Unsound horses may show signs of pain through body language, such as pinning their ears, swishing their tail, or reacting negatively to touch, especially in specific areas like the back, legs, or hooves.
☑️ Check for Swelling or Heat
Run your hands over your horse’s legs, hooves, and joints to feel for any warmth, swelling, or unusual lumps. Heat or puffiness often suggests inflammation or an underlying injury.
☑️ Monitor Performance
If your horse suddenly starts refusing jumps, becomes reluctant to move forward, or has a noticeable drop in performance, these could be signs of physical discomfort or an injury.
☑️ Assess for Lameness Post-Workout
After exercise, observe your horse for stiffness or signs of discomfort. Horses may sometimes appear sound at the start but show lameness after exertion, indicating a possible issue.
Regular monitoring and early intervention can make a significant difference in managing your horse’s soundness and overall health. At Equine Movement Therapy, we're here to support you and your horse through every step of the journey to wellness and top performance.💙
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