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FOOD FOR THOUGHT Volume 2 Issue 1

Wen-D Acres — Mon, 12 Oct 2009 01:09:00 GMT

Volume 2 Issue 1


                                                                                      FOOD FOR THOUGHT


Equine Dentition

Before we get started with what to feed, how much to feed, whether or not to give supplements or any other issues, I believe it is important to understand the physiology of the horse. The first three Issues of this Volume will cover the horse’s dentition, digestive tract, nutrient classes including what role each of them plays in maintaining a healthy horse. In this Issue, I will cover the horse’s dentition. For further information on this subject, please refer to “I’ve Got People”, Volume 4, Issue 5 for an in-depth interview on Equine Dentistry.

On a day to day basis, we never really think much about our mouths, or teeth…….until they start to hurt or ache that is. Then all of a sudden we realize just how important good dental health is. Without our teeth, we cannot eat so it is imperative to keep our teeth as healthy as possible. The same holds true for your horse and it is our job to see that his teeth are kept as healthy as possible. In order to do that, we need to understand a little about the horse’s dentition.

The horse has three types of teeth. The molars (large surfaced teeth running the length of the jaw, behind the bar) are used for grinding. The incisors (front teeth) are used for cutting or “scissoring” grass off for grinding by the molars. The canine teeth sit behind the incisors on the lower jaw and the “wolf” teeth sit just in front of the molars on the upper jaw. Most people believe that the canine and the wolf teeth are different teeth. However, others believe that they are one and the same with just a slightly different location between the upper and lower jaw. It is not certain what these particular teeth are used for. There is a school of thought that these teeth are used by the stallion when mating or fighting with another stallion. Although each gender can have them they predominate in male horses.

In a mature adult male horse there are usually 24 molars (12 upper and 12 lower), 12 incisors (6 upper and 6 lower), and 4 canine/wolf teeth (2 upper and 2 lower). In a mature female horse, there are 24 molars, 12 incisors, and usually no canine/wolf teeth.

The canine/wolf teeth usually appear around 4 years of age. Quite frequently they are extracted as they have a tendency to interfere with the bridle and bit fit. It can be quite uncomfortable for the horse to have the bit rubbing or hitting these teeth and can result in some unfavorable reactions from the horse such as head tossing or rearing.

There are basically two types of Dental Unsoundness in horses. One is Congenital. The other type is Non-congenital. It is extremely important to have these problems addressed by a qualified Equine Dentist or Veterinarian. This is done by “Floating” the teeth at least once a year for mature horses and twice a year for younger horses.

The purpose of floating is to permit the upper and lower jaw to slide in a sideways motion to its full extent. This is how the horse grinds his food so that it can be digested properly and full nutritional value can be utilized.

Just as a note of interest, the age of a horse can be falsified by floating the horse’s teeth. This practice is called Bishoping. If you suspect that your horse is really older than you have been told check with your vet. He will be able to determine if Bishoping has taken place.

I have included 2 diagrams in this issue, to help you understand the dentition of the horse. The more we know and understand the easier and more accurate it is to communicate with our vet.

To view the rest of this article including the diagrams, visit my store.

ALWAYS REMEMBER…WHEN IN DOUBT…CALL YOUR VET

Wendy Teddiman, Trainer (949)357-8040

(wen-dacres@cox.net) (http://Wen-D-Acres.com)
(http://Blog.Wen-D-Acres.com) (http://Shop.Wen-D-Acres.com)

I'VE GOT PEOPLE; Volume 4 Issue 5

Wen-D Acres — Sun, 09 Aug 2009 19:16:00 GMT

Volume 4 Issue 5

I’VE GOT PEOPLE

One of the most important things we have to have done twice a year that makes our skin crawl, is to go to the dentist. We all know how important it is to have good oral hygiene. Like it or not, off to the dentist we go, to have our teeth x-rayed, cleaned, filled, extracted, whitened, & straightened. Without good dentition, we cannot eat properly, which in turn, brings about a whole set of other problems. And so, like good little soldiers, we march off to the dentist so that we can not only look good, but live a healthier life.

The same holds true for our equine friends. Not so long ago, we were not as educated about our horse’s dental needs and seldom, if ever, thought about “having their teeth done”. Today, we are much more aware of our horse’s need for good oral hygiene and good dention. Fortunately, the veterinarian industry has kept searching for new and innovative ways to keep our horses healthy. Our Veterinarians can now “Float”, remove plaque and tarter, extract, change the bite, and in some cases, fill our horse’s teeth. By doing this, we are ensuring the most efficient way to properly metabolize the food they eat in order to keep them in top physical shape.

Adult male horses usually have 12 pre molars [6 upper, and 6 lower], 12 molars [6 upper, and 6 lower] 12 incisors [6 upper and 6 lower] and also usually have 4 canines [2 upper and 2 lower]. Adult females have 12 pre molars, 12 molars,12 incisors, and usually, no canines, [some mares do have them, however they are just really small].

During the aging process, the teeth start to slant, change shape and the “dental star” changes shape and location. The “dental star” is a spot on the occluding surface of the teeth that can be seen with the naked eye. It can help to determine the age of the horse, depending on size, shape, and location.

There are two types of dental unsoundness in horses. One is congenital. This is something that the horse is born with, for example, a parrot mouth, or an under shot jaw. The second is non-congenital. This means something that has happened to the teeth or jaw, through the course of growth. For example, a “wave”, retained incisors, or retained caps.

For these reasons, it is very important to have your vet check your horse’s teeth at least once a year for mature horses and at least twice a year for youngsters. Your vet will let you know if there is a problem and the best way to handle it.

The following interview on Equine Dentistry, will, I hope, help to impress upon horse owners the need for good dental care of our horses and clarify some concerns associated with this practice.

This interview was conducted with Dr. Kelly Alcala. Dr. Alcala has her Masters and Under Graduate degree from Cal Poly in Pomona. She also then graduated from U.C. Davis in 2003 as a D.V.M. Dr. Alcala is also a member of AAEP [American Association of Equine Practioners], AVMA [American Vet. Med Assc.], CVMA [California Vet. Med. Assc.] and SCVMA [So. Cal. Vet. Med. Assoc.]

I have worked with Dr. Alcala for many years and never fail to be impressed with her caring and gentle way with our equine friends and she is unquestionably dedicated to perform the best services possible for their safety, health and welfare.

REMEMBER.....WHEN IN DOUBT.....CALL YOUR VET

For the rest of this interview, visit my store at http://Shop.Wen-D-Acres.com

I'VE GOT PEOPLE Volume 4 Issue 4

Wen-D Acres — Mon, 20 Jul 2009 22:04:00 GMT

Volume 4 Issue 4

I’VE GOT PEOPLE

The art of shoeing has been around since man first discovered the use of the horse. As far back as the Roman Empire, we have been aware of the need to shoe horses, as our need for them increased. In that era, horses were shod with a variety of materials, including a nifty little number made from wood, and strapped to the horse’s foot, much like a sandal for humans.

The people that shod horses back then were called “blacksmiths”, or a “smithy”. They worked metal on a forge for a variety of reasons, not just for shoeing. The blacksmith was an integral part of the community, much like the auto mechanics of today. Through their expertise, they kept the horse sound of foot, thereby ensuring the horse’s continued and much needed services in the community.

Today, these people are called “Ferriers”, although some old timers still refer to them as blacksmiths. We now have courses in colleges for Ferrier Science in an effort to keep the highest quality of shoeing continually updated to new and innovative procedures. [As a side note, a wooden shoe has just been “re-invented” in the treatment of foundered horses, and is held in place with either a special glue, or screws. It seems we have come full circle, and everything old, is new again…..with some modern modifications, of course.]

These days, it is possible, for the Ferrier to work hand in hand with the Veterinarian. This ensures that the most accurate and precise trimming occurs for the horse’s benefit with the use of digital x-rays. Several years ago, this was not always a viable way of correcting the shoeing and trimming of horses feet, as the x-rays took several days to develop. Now, with the use of a digital x-ray, problem feet can be x-rayed and a picture is immediately accessible. This allows the Vet and the Ferrier to achieve pinpoint accuracy for corrective trimming and shoeing. As the saying goes, one picture is worth a thousand words.

Because Ferrier Science is just that…..A Science…..it can become very complex, and complicated. My goal is to keep this article and interview as simple as possible. At the same time, I hope that it will answer questions to help clear up the mystery and guess work of the shoeing process. To that end, this interview will be conducted with “normal” horseshoeing in mind. If any of my readers have specific correctional shoeing questions, I invite them to contact me personally, and I will be glad to help them out.

This interview was conducted with Riki Root. Riki has over 40 years of shoeing experience. He works closely with other professionals and is familiar with corrective trimming and shoeing as well as with the use of digital x-rays. He excels in diagnosing a horse’s natural way of going and trims and shoes them accordingly to keep them traveling sound and evenly according to the conformation of the horse. He is very open to new technological advances in Ferrier Science and is constantly searching for new and creative ways to help keep a horse’s feet sound.

Riki also rides western, ropes, pens, cuts cows, and trail rides. This means that he not only understands the shoeing mechanics from the ground, but also from a rider’s point of view, where the horse’s performance is concerned.

I have worked closely with Riki for over 15 years and he has literally saved several of the horses I have trained over the years. I am forever thankful for Riki’s diligence, thoughtfulness and commitment to ensuring the highest quality of trimming and shoeing possible for the horses he works on.

Riki graciously consented to this interview to help promote a better understanding of the shoeing process, thereby ensuring better shoeing for our equine friends.

To read the interview part of this article, visit my store

ALWAYS REMEMBER…WHEN IN DOUBT….CALL YOUR VET

Wendy Teddiman, Trainer (949)357-8040 (wen-dacres@cox.net) (http://Wen-D-Acres.com)
(http://Blog.Wen-D-Acres.com) (http://Shop.Wen-D-Acres.com)

I'VE GOT PEOPLE Volume 4 Issue 3

Wen-D Acres — Sun, 17 May 2009 19:47:00 GMT

Volume 4 Issue 3

I’VE GOT PEOPLE

The change that has taken place in the Medical, and Veterinary field over the last several years is absolutely staggering. New and innovative procedures are happening at such a rapid rate, that it’s sometimes difficult to keep up with them. Procedures that in the past took several months for the horse to heal, now are taking weeks instead.

The following interview is one such procedure. The surgery in the following interview, is for ligament repair, and is called “A” Cellular Bone Marrow Injection [meaning there are no cells, just serum]. It is an Autogoneous procedure, [meaning from within in the recipient’s own body].

In the past, the traditional treatment was cold-water therapy, icing, sweat wraps, massage, bute, and stall rest. Typically, the recovery time to get the horse to the point where he could be walked under saddle was four to six months. With this new technique, it is possible to walk the horse under saddle in as little as sixty days.

Even this new technique is making rapid improvements for the horse’s benefit. In as few as two years ago, the horses were “put out” for the surgery, the ligament was exposed, and the bone marrow, which is extracted from the horse’s sternum, was injected directly into the exposed ligament. Today, while that method is still being used….usually on hind legs as there is so much more tissue to penetrate….. the usual procedure is to allow the horse to stay standing. This allows for easier extraction of the bone marrow, is less traumatic for the horse, and is no more invasive than an injection into a joint.

After the bone marrow is extracted from the sternum, using ultra sound equipment to ensure the correct location for the needle, the bone marrow is put into vial, and then into a centrifuge machine to separate the bone marrow from the bone marrow serum. The serum is much easier to inject into the ligament site than the whole bone marrow, which also has a tendency to clot. To the serum, prior to injection, an antibiotic is added, to help prevent possible infection. Once the serum is ready for injection, the Dr. uses the ultra sound again, to help give pinpoint accuracy for the actual injection.

After the injection of the bone marrow serum, the leg is bandaged with a pressure wrap, to help alleviate any swelling, which may occur at the injection sight, and is usually left on for approximately one week. The beautiful part of this procedure is that the horse can start hand walking the very next day, which invariable helps to reduce the chances of secondary issues.

The interview for this procedure was conducted with Dr. Mark Secor DVM. Dr. Secor graduated from U. C Davis in 1984, has completed the Equine Chiropractic Course, and is a member in good standing with ISELP [International Society of Equine Locomotional Pathology]. Dr. Secor is wonderful humanitarian.
He consistently gives back to the community with donations to benefit horse shows, as well being on call for our local Swallows Day Parade, just to mention a few. I have had the pleasure of working with Dr. Secor for many years, and admire him greatly.

ALWAYS REMEMBER…WHEN IN DOUBT….CALL YOUR VET

For the rest of this and other articles visit my store

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I'VE GOT PEOPLE Volume 4 Issue 2

Wen-D Acres — Mon, 06 Apr 2009 05:14:00 GMT

Volume 4 Issue 2

I’VE GOT PEOPLE

The following interview was conducted with Dr. Butch Quay, D.C.

Q: Why Chiropractic as apposed to some other form of treatment such as injections or massage therapy?

A: Chiropractic is a very specific modality. If vertebrae or joints are subluxed (not in perfect alignment), then a chiropractic adjustment is required. No other procedure’s goal is to do this. In fact, chiropractic is most effective when used in conjunction with other modalities such as massage or acupuncture. Chiropractic even benefits from more conventional applications such as joint injections, shockwave etc.

Q: How do I know if my horse needs an adjustment?

A: Most of the time chiropractic fills the gap when a horse is not lame, but the horse is not moving right. This is usually considered with a horse that is experiencing performance problems. Common complaints are: lead issues, bending problems, jump refusal, cross cantering, and many more. Also, palpable or known back pain…..pressing on the horse’s back and the horse reacts to pain. Many lamenesses are a direct result of a horse with spinal or joint subluxations. Always confer with a vet first, especially when lameness is present. Most vets now understand the necessity of alternative modalities, and work in close conjunction with these alternative professionals.

Q: How often should I have it done?

A: It varies depending on the horse and the condition. Initially adjustments are performed in

ALWAYS REMEMBER…WHEN IN DOUBT….CALL YOUR VET

For the rest of this and other articles visit my store

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I'VE GOT PEOPLE Volume 4 Issue 1

Wen-D Acres — Sun, 22 Mar 2009 05:29:00 GMT

Volume 4 Issue 1

I’VE GOT PEOPLE

In the world of today, with the hectic scheduling of work, school, family and friends, we find ourselves more and more dependent on “Our People” to help with daily tasks. “Our People” do the gardening, clean the house, do the laundry, buy the groceries, take the kids to and from school, keep our books, make appointments for us, keep track of our daily schedules, take care of our health needs and do personal shopping for us. In some cases we also have personal trainers, massage therapists, chiropractors, and even dog walkers. If we need it done, there are “People” to do it for us.

Our equine friends now find themselves in the unique position of “Having People” too. They have equine Chiropractors, Ferriers, Nutritionists, Massage Therapists, Horse Nannies, Dentists, Equine Ambulance Services, Equine Hospitals, Veterinarians and Personal Trainers.

In this section, I am delivering you the results of my interviews with professionals from these fields. My goal is, as always, to help give you more information from a professional point of view and assist you in making an informed decision in regard to your horse’s needs. I invite you to take part in this section, by contacting me, with respect to any personal interest you may have and if I haven’t done so all ready, I will be glad to schedule an interview with a professional to help answer your personal concerns.

EQUINE CHIROPRACTICS

The use of equine chiropractics is fairly new in the horse world, but is gaining in popularity. There is still much controversy as to whether it really works or not. My own personal experience has shown me that when chiropractic is needed, and performed by a professional equine chiropractor, it does indeed work. I strongly advise, that if you are considering chiropractics for your horse, to have him examined by your vet first. If he concurs, then ask him for a recommendation as to the equine chiropractor of his choice. I find that it is extremely important for these two team members to work in harmony together. For that matter, all of the members of your horse’s team must work in harmony together. But just like any team, there must be a captain. In this case, the captain of your horse’s team must be your veterinarian.

In this interview, I have chosen to speak with Dr. Butch Quay. Dr. Quay is a member of the Animal Veterinary Chiropractic Association, and is a Doctor of Chiropractic. He was recommended to me by my Veterinarian several years ago and he has been performing chiropractic adjustments for my client’s horses, as well as my own, ever since. I enjoy a good working relationship with Dr. Quay and he works very closely with my vet, Ferrier, and any other team members that my vet thinks will be of benefit to the horse.

Since Dr. Quay has been adjusting my client’s horses, I have seen a dramatic improvement in the level of their performance and demeanor. My clients think that Dr. Quay is a miracle worker, and all of his equine clients love him.

Dr. Quay has graciously consented to this interview, in the endeavor of promoting a better understanding of the use of chiropractics in the equine industry.

To view my interview with Dr. Quay, read I'VE GOT PEOPLE Volume 4 Issue 2

ALWAYS REMEMBER…WHEN IN DOUBT….CALL YOUR VET

Wendy Teddiman, Trainer (wen-dacres@cox.net) (http://Wen-D-Acres.com)
(http://Blog.Wen-D-Acres.com) (http://Shop.Wen-D-Acres.com) 949-357-8040

SENIOR CITIZENS Volume 3 Issue 3

Wen-D Acres — Sun, 15 Mar 2009 18:29:00 GMT

Volume 3 Issue 3

SENIOR CITIZENS

Equine Metabolic Syndrome

What Is Equine Metabolic Syndrome [EMS]?

These days, with the horse population creeping towards obesity, it is getting harder to view a fit horse as not being underfed, abused, or starved. We have a tendency to call these overweight horses “easy keepers”. These days it seems that our whole society is over-fed and under-exercised. Naturally, we have a tendency to treat our pets the same way. In humans, this can, and quite often does, lead to diabetes. We want to be careful not to let this happen to our equine friends as well.

EMS is a cluster of problems including obesity, IR and laminitis. Symptoms include some of the same as found in the Cushing’s horse, such as thick cresty necks, swollen sheath in geldings and fat pads distributed throughout the body. Ponies, Morgans, Passo Finos, Spanish Mustangs, European Warmbloods and Arabians are particularly prone to it, but it can affect all breeds. Most commonly, it affects horses of middle age [8 to 18 years]. These horses can also suffer from Hypothyroidism. This means that they have low thyroid production by their thyroid gland, leading to a low metabolic rate, thus, weight gain.

What Causes EMS?

With horses, it is not really known what causes EMS. It could be a combination of genetic or environmental factors however; it is most likely connected with obesity and lack of exercise.

Meals high in starch and sugar lead to spikes in blood glucose and insulin with Insulin Resistance (IR) as a result. This occurs commonly, especially in the spring when horses are grazing in a pasture that is lush and green.

In our efforts to supply the best feed for our horses, we also have a tendency to feed them what they like (for example high protein sweet feed and alfalfa hay). Unfortunately this is not necessarily what they need. It is always best to

FOR THE REST OF THIS AND OTHER ARTICLES, VISIT MY STORE AT (http://ShopWen-D-Acres.com)

ALWAYS REMEMBER.....WHEN IN DOUBT.....CALL YOUR VET

Wendy Teddiman, Trainer (wen-dacres@cox.net) (http://Wen-D-Acres.com) (http://Blog.Wen-D-Acres.com) 949-357-8040

SENIOR CITIZENS Volume 3 Issue 2

Wen-D Acres — Sun, 01 Mar 2009 19:10:00 GMT

Volume 3 Issue 2

SENIOR CITIZENS

CUSHING’S DISEASE

What Is Cushing’s Disease?
Cushing’s is a problem in the pituitary gland, located inside of the brain. Hormones are produced there and then released into the body to control body functions. Some of these functions control the hair growth, energy level, fat distribution, sweating, muscle development, immune system, and reproductive system.

Quite often a horse with Cushing’s Disease will exhibit some, or all of the following symptoms; long thick coat that fails to shed out, excessive sweating, lethargy, poor athletic performance, chronic, or recurring laminitis, infertility, weight loss, abnormal fat distribution, excessive drinking and urination, increased susceptibility to infections, internal parasites and possible skin sores.

Cushing’s is one of the most common conditions of older horses, and can occur in all types and breeds with the most common being ponies and Morgans. Although it can affect younger horses, most sufferers are over 15 years of age. Recently, it has been determined that approximately 30% of all horses in this age group are likely to have Cushing’s. It is a progressive condition, which has no cure. If left untreated, it can shorten your horse’s life span due to secondary conditions. But, with proper and early diagnosis, treatment and wellness practices, your equine friend can live a normal average lifespan, and enjoy a better quality of life.

What Causes Cushing’s Disease?
For some reason, the pituitary gland in the horse’s brain develops a tumor. There are different theories as to how or why this happens. One school of thought is that the pituitary gland becomes enlarged as a result of increased work, but it is not known if the enlargement of pituitary causes a tumor to grow, or if the growth of a tumor results in an enlarged pituitary gland.

For arguments sake, lets just say that the development of a tumor in the pituitary gland interrupts the normal production of hormones, which cause the clinical signs of Cushing’s. One of these is Dopamine. The lack of Dopamine

For the rest of this and other articles, vist my store (http://Shop.Wen-D-Acres.com)

ALWAYS REMEMBER.....WHEN IN DOUBT.....CALL YOUR VET

Wendy Teddiman, Trainer (wen-sacres@cox.net) (http://Wen-D-Acres.com) 949-357-8040

SENIOR CITIZENS Volume 3 Issue 1

Wen-D Acres — Sat, 21 Feb 2009 20:50:00 GMT

Volume 3 Issue 1

SENIOR CITIZENS

In this volume, I will be discussing senior horses. With advances in Veterinary medicine, Ferrier science, nutrition, and exercise programs, our equine friends are living longer. The result is that we are now facing a barrage of “New” problems associated with the senior horse.

Some overlapping of symptoms can create a great deal of confusion as to what your horse may be suffering from and exactly how to deal with it. In the long run, it is always preferable to have your Vet do some diagnostics to determine the correct problem and treatment.

Three of the senior problems that we have seen a dramatic increase in over the last few years, are; Pituitary Pars Intermedia Dysfunction [PPID], commonly known as Cushing’s Disease, Equine Metabolic Syndrome [EMS], and Insulin Resistance [IR].

INSULIN RESISTANCE

The main symptoms of IR are sluggishness, easy weight gain, or weight loss, a cresty thick neck, and fat pads throughout the body. There can also be hoof problems, such as laminitis. We are finding that more horses may be genetically predisposed to it, than actually show it. Some things that we find may trigger the onset of IR include high carbohydrate or high fat diets, mineral deficiencies, lack of exercise, obesity, and stress. Sound familiar?

Insulin is produced in the horse’s pancreas and is needed to help control levels of glucose [sugar] in the blood. Because insulin and blood sugar metabolism may not be functioning properly, avoid feeding traditional grains, treats, or pasture. These can be high in sugar and starches. Instead, feed a multi-vitamin/mineral supplement, and a low sugar/high fiber feed made especially for senior horses. Feed that is high in starch and sugar leads to spikes in the blood glucose and insulin levels, and consequently insulin resistance.

If you are suspicious that this may be the case, have your Vet conduct a complete physical examination and routine blood work. At the same time

For the rest of this and other articles, visit my store (http://Shop.Wen-D-Acres,com)

ALWAYS REMEMBER…WHEN IN DOUBT….CALL YOUR VET

FOOD FOR THOUGHT Volume 2 Issue 3

Wen-D Acres — Mon, 16 Feb 2009 06:38:00 GMT

Volume 2 Issue 3

FOOD FOR THOUGHT

THE FACTS OF FLAX

Jenny W. from San Juan Capistrano called me with a very real concern. She received a handout from a feed company about the hazards associated with supplementing your horse with flax. As her horse needs to have a thyroid supplement daily to bring his thyroid level up to normal, she was, justifiably concerned.

The article she read had this to say about flax. “There are abundant articles on horse health indicating that flax can be detrimental to a horse’s thyroid. Flax has theoretically been linked to Cushings and HYPP as well as joint problems. Other articles indicate flax not properly processed can turn into cyanide in the horse’s system.

Is flax related to kidney failure? Sure, cyanide could cause kidney disease. We’ve had scientists from top human drug companies warning for ages, to never feed flax to a horse. Horse publications have also indicated the possibility that flax can cause lethargy and fertility issues. Flax is very high in potassium, and there are thousands of medical/scientific articles linking high potassium with kidney failure.

We also know that high potassium levels have been linked to O.C.D., epithasitis, ‘hyperkalemia’ [potassium in bloodstream higher than normal which causes kidneys to have to overwork to rid itself of extra potassium] Kidney failure is often seen hand in hand with high potassium levels.”

This particular feed company then goes on to state in another article, which I found on the Internet… “If you are going to feed flax, it should be soaked in order to make it safer, and more effective. Flax, if not milled properly, can become rancid in about 2 weeks, and can cause colic. So flax fans should at least soak and boil the flax first.

Benefit: shiny coat, rich in Omegas, cheap
Risk (even if only occasionally): thyroid problems, death, epithasitis, OCD, cushings, lethargy, colic, etc.”

All I can say is, WOW!! That article sure would make me think twice about giving my horse flax. But, you know what I say….When In Doubt, Ask Your Vet. And that is exactly what I did.

I contacted several Vets as well and Labs. Even though I got the answers I was looking for, I still wanted more proof so I spent the next week looking up any articles I could find about flax on the internet, both for human, as well as for equine. I would now like to share these “Facts Of Flax” with you, so that you can make an informed decision whether to use it or not.

IN THE BEGINNING…..

Flax is an ancient plant that has been used as a source of food and oil for thousands of years. Even the plant fibers are used for the manufacture of linen. The oil is also known as Linseed Oil. It is a blue flowering plant that is grown on the Western Canadian Prairies. For centuries, it has been recognized as a highly nutritional food and recommended for whole-body wellbeing. It is the richest sources of omega-3 fatty acids, which are required for the health of almost every body system and in past centuries, was a part of the every day diet.

NUTRIENTS
Flax seed oil contains omega-6 and omega 9 essential fatty acids [essential because our bodies cannot produce them ourselves], the B vitamin group, potassium, lecithin, magnesium, fiber, protein, and zinc. It also provides approximately 50% more omega-3 oils than in fish oil.

Protein
Flax seed is approximately 22% protein and contains all 9 essential amino acids. Protein is essential for the growth and repair of tissue. It is also needed for the formation of enzymes, hormones, neurotransmitters, and for the transport of other nutrients into the cells. Flax seed is easy to digest, and has it’s own enzymes to assist with digestion. Certain amino acids in flax provide for early absorption in the digestive process that forms neurotransmitters for the brain and nerves.

Omega-3
Flax seed is the highest source of Omega-3 essential fatty acid. Omega-3 is essential for brain, nerves, skin, circulatory and immune functions. It has also been used for the prevention of arthritis, cancer, heart disease, M.S., fibromyalgia, weight control, and has had some success with balancing female hormones and reducing PMS.

Lignans
Lignans are special antioxidants documented to protect against cancer, heart disease, arthritis, diabetes and other ailments. Flax is by far the highest food known for lignans. It has 100 times the lignan content of the next best food source. In total, there are 27 anti-cancer agents in flax seed, mostly lignans.

Other
Flax contains 2% organically bonded minerals. It is an excellent source of highly absorbable potassium, calcium, magnesium, phosphorus, iron, copper, zinc, manganese, selenium, and boron. It also has generous amounts of vitamins A [Beta Carotene], B-1, B-2, B-3, B-6, B-12, and E.

To read the rest of this article, and see the impact of Flax for both humans, as well as our equine friends, visit my store

ALWAYS REMEMBER.....WHEN IN DOUBT.....CALL YOUR VET

Wendy Teddiman, Trainer (wen-dacres@cox.net) (http://shop.wen-d-acres.com) (http://wen-d-acres.com) 949-357-8040

THE WOUND DILEMMA Volume 1 Issue 7

Wen-D Acres — Mon, 16 Feb 2009 03:58:00 GMT

Volume 1, Issue 7

THE WOUND DILEMMA

Head Wounds

Head wounds can be caused by a variety of situations, such as bumping their head on a stall feeder; the urge to rub itchy skin; squeezing their head between fence posts in search of greener grass or being blind in one or both eyes. Although these types of wounds look severe and have a tendency to bleed profusely, they usually heal wonderfully well due to the amply supply of blood to this area. Even an eyelid that is almost completely torn away, or a nostril that is torn almost in half, will usually heal fully, with minimal scaring.

Flow Chart

1) Is there cloudiness or excessive tearing of your horse’s eye, indicating that the eye itself may be injured?
YES > CALL YOUR VET
*
NO
*

2) Is there any exposed bone or cartilage? (common in face cuts due to the limited muscle covering the skull)
YES > CALL YOUR VET
*
NO
*
3) Is there a large loose “flap”, such as a tear in the nostril, or eyelid?
YES> CALL YOUR VET
*
NO
*

4) Is it a full-thickness skin wound, where cosmetic healing is important?
YES>CALL YOUR VET
*
NO
*
5) Will your horse allow you to treat the injury?
NO >CALL YOUR VET
*
YES
*

Apply Home Treatment

> Using a syringe, flush the wound several times with a dilute Betadine/water solution (if your horse objects, you may have to apply the solution with a gauze pad) then apply a triple-antibiotic ointment, Furacine, or Biozide gel.

> Until the wound has closed, flush and reapply ointment daily to remove any dirt or debris.

> For injuries close to your horse’s eye, apply a non-steroidal antibiotic ophthalmic ointment in the eye as a precaution against possible cornea involvement and to prevent possible infection. Make sure you read the label carefully before application. NEVER use an ointment containing a steroid into your horse’s eye unless directed by your vet. Always remember, when in doubt, call your Vet.

> Watch carefully for signs of more serious damage than originally seen. This includes profuse or prolonged drainage (indicating bone involvement), prolonged nasal discharge (indicating a sinus infection), tearing or cloudiness of the eye (indicating injury). If you see any of these signs, call your vet immediately.

What To Expect When You Call Your Vet

Your Vet…..

> May heavily sedate your horse for safe evaluation, wound cleansing and/or suturing.

> Will completely evaluate injuries close to your horse’s eye using a corneal “stain” to identify scratches or abrasions on the cornea (the clear outer layer of the eye). Treatment for an eye injury may be recommended in addition to suturing the wound.

> Will probably prescribe antibiotics and Bute, especially if bone has been exposed or damaged.

> Will give you specific after-care instructions, which may include putting ointment in your horse’s eye, administering antibiotics (pills or injection) and watching your horse for signs of head trauma. These signs can include changes in behavior, fixed dilated pupils, or seizures.

Most head wounds heal without complications, and you can expect your vet to remove any sutures in about 10 days.

This concludes THE WOUND DILEMMA series. I hope you have found these articles both interesting, and helpful. Before I begin my next series, I invite you to participate in this column. If you have any inquires, or are interested in exploring equine related problems that you are experiencing, please contact me and I will be happy to reply. You may find that other equine enthusiasts share the particular problem you are experiencing and the answers will serve them as well.


ALWAYS REMEMBER…WHEN IN DOUBT….CALL YOUR VET

© Wendy Teddiman, Trainer (wen-dacres@cox.net) (http://wen-d-acres.com) (http://shop.wen-d-acres.com)
949-357-8040

THE WOUND DILEMMA Volume 1 Issue 6

Wen-D Acres — Sat, 07 Feb 2009 20:44:00 GMT

Volume 1, Issue 6

THE WOUND DILEMMA

Upper Body Wounds

Upper body wounds include everything from your horse’s poll to his tail, and his upper legs as well. These are commonly caused by bites and kicks from pasture-mates. They can also be caused by a variety of objects found around the barn, such as stall doors, tractors or other vehicles, arena fencing, jumps, and “road rash”, just to mention a few.

Even though some of these wounds can be large and ugly, with torn skin, and muscle damage, the good news is that most of the time they heal with very little scarring, and very rarely any problem with proud flesh. Even wounds left unsutured may heal fairly well. One of the reasons for this is that they are not subjected to the same degree of movement, as in other areas of the body.

Flow Chart

1) Can you see muscle damage with exposed blood vessels or other vital organs?
YES → CALL YOUR VET
↓
NO
↓

2) Is there swelling, or a pus-like discharge, indicating a possible infection? (may or may not be accompanied with a fever)
YES → CALL YOUR VET
↓
NO
↓

3) Is it a full thickness skin wound (the edges can be easily pulled apart), or is there a large, loose flap of skin?
YES → CALL YOUR VET
↓
NO
↓

4) Will your horse allow you to treat the wound?
NO → CALL YOUR VET
↓
YES
↓

Apply Home Treatment
↓

> Clean the wound thoroughly with a gentle stream of cold water for about 15 to 20 minutes. This will also help to reduce any swelling, or inflammation. Then, flush the entire wound several times with a dilute Betadine/water solution, using a 30 to 60 cc syringe.

> Flush daily, until you can see that the wound has filled in with new tissue.

> Each day, after flushing the wound, apply triple antibiotic ointment. Furacine or Biozide Gel can also be used if you do not have the triple antibiotic ointment, as upper body wounds are less likely to develop complications, inherent to lower leg or foot wounds.

> Give your horse 1 gram of Bute twice a day (or 2 grams once a day, depending on your schedule) for five to seven days. This will help to reduce the inflammation and swelling.

If you see signs of an infection (flow chart) call your vet immediately

What To Expect When You Call Your Vet

Your Vet…..

> Will clean the wound and possibly block the area with a local anesthetic, if he determines that suturing the skin and any torn underlying muscle is necessary.

> May suture a rubber “drain” into the wound. If the wound involves a large amount of muscle damage, this will encourage the wound to “drain” out any excess fluids caused by the healing process. This is also a precautionary measure, in the event of infection, to allow the wound to continue draining freely.

> Will give you specific after care instructions, which may include flushing the wound daily with an antiseptic solution.

> May prescribe antibiotics and bute.
You can expect your vet to remove the sutures in about 10 to 14 days, barring any unforeseen complications, such as infection, or sutures being torn/pulled apart.

Next week’s article will be the “flow chart” for head wounds and the conclusion of “The Wound Dilemma” series of articles. If there is a particular area that you would like me to discuss, please contact me (web site, e-mail or phone) and I will be pleased to respond.

ALWAYS REMEMBER…WHEN IN DOUBT….CALL YOUR VET

THE WOUND DILEMMA Volume 1 Issue 5

Wen-D Acres — Sat, 31 Jan 2009 18:42:00 GMT

Volume 1, Issue 5

THE WOUND DILEMMA

Lower Leg Wounds

Consider lower-leg wounds to be injuries from your horse’s knee or hock to midpastern. These are by far the scariest of injuries, because the lack of muscle covering this region means that deep cuts often involve tendons, ligaments, or joints. It is not uncommon to find exposed bone.

Another risk with lower-leg wounds is the development of proud flesh. While you rarely need to worry about proud flesh forming in wounds above the knees or hocks, it is commonly found to develop in poorly managed lower-leg wounds.

Flow Chart

1) Can you see a hard white mass (exposed bone, tendons, or ligaments), or a yellow bubbly fluid (meaning joint or tendon sheath involvement)?
YES → CALL YOUR VET
↓
NO
↓

2) Is your horse refusing to bear weight on the limb, or refusing to move?
YES → CALL YOUR VET
↓
NO
↓

3) Is it a “full-thickness” wound, meaning that it’s edges can easily be pulled apart, exposing underlying tissue?
YES → CALL YOUR VET
↓
NO
↓

4) Is there excessive swelling (enough to obscure tendon and bone definition) or drainage, indicating infection. (May or may not be accompanied by a fever)?
YES → CALL YOUR VET
↓
NO
↓

5) Will your horse allow you to treat the wound?
NO → CALL YOUR VET
↓
YES
↓

Apply Home Treatment
↓

> Clean the wound thoroughly by hosing with a gentle stream of cold water for about 15 to 20 minutes. Then, using a syringe to flush the wound several times with a dilute Betadine/water solution.

> On simple abrasions, leave the wound open, and apply triple-antibiotic ointment daily after washing off any debris with a gentle stream of cold water.

> If the wound’s edges are separated and you have opted not to have it sutured, apply triple-antibiotic ointment, then apply a pressure wrap to prevent proud flesh from forming.

> Give your horse 1 gram of bute twice a day (or 2 grams once a day, depending on your schedule) for five to seven days to reduce inflammation and swelling.

> Change pressure wrap and reapply triple-antibiotic ointment every two to four days, until the wound has filled in with new tissue. If the wound surface begins to protrude above the skin level, call your vet for recommendations about how to aggressively handle or treat proud flesh.

> If you see signs of an infection (refer to flow chart) call your vet immediately.

What To Expect When You Call Your Vet

Your Vet…..

> Will thoroughly clean the wound and examine it to determine tissue involvement. A serious injury involving tendons or joints may require you to transport your horse to a veterinary hospital for surgical repair.

> May suture the wound and apply a pressure wrap.

> Will give you specific after-care instructions, which may involve changing the pressure bandages, and cleaning the wound. He will tell you what danger signs, such as excess swelling, drainage, or loosened sutures, to watch for.

> Will probably suggest stall rest for your horse, to ensure proper healing.

> May prescribe antibiotics (pills or injections); he also may prescribe bute

> Will remove the sutures in about two weeks, if the wound has healed properly.

For uncomplicated wounds, your horse should be back to work within three to four weeks. Serious lower-leg wounds---those that become infected, or involve bone, joints, tendons, and ligaments---can result in layoffs from about six months to one year.

ALWAYS REMEMBER…WHEN IN DOUBT….CALL YOUR VET

THE WOUND DILEMMA Volume 1 Issue 4

Wen-D Acres — Sat, 24 Jan 2009 16:09:00 GMT

Volume 1, Issue 4

THE WOUND DILEMMA

Foot Wounds

Your horse's feet are vulnerable to a large variety of wounds. The most common are a result of an entanglement with wire or other debris, puncture wounds, or clipping a front heel with a hind foot. The resulting injuries can extend upward into the mid pastern, the frog or sole of the foot, or a piece of the heel bulb being torn off. You need to take all foot wounds seriously. There could be joint involvement, or damage to the coronary band, which can result in permanently deformed hoof growth.

Tip: If your horse steps on a nail and your vet is within an hour's drive, have him x-ray the foot before removing the nail. He'll be better able to determine whether vital structures, such as the coffin bone, were penetrated, and thus will be better able to select the appropriate treatment course. However, if part of the nail is sticking out of your horse's foot, or your vet is more than an hour away, pull the nail out and soak the foot for about 20 to 30 minutes in a bucket of warm water with 10cc of Betadine (approximately ¼ cup) added to it. Protect your horse's foot with an Easyboot (or gauze padding and duct tape) until your vet arrives.

Flow Chart

1) Is there a sharp object imbedded in your horse's foot?

YES → CALL YOUR VET

↓

2) Can you see exposed bone, or a bubbling yellow fluid (joint fluid), indicating that the coffin joint is involved?

YES → CALL YOUR VET

↓

3) Does the wound extend through the coronary band?

YES → CALL YOUR VET

↓

4) Is your horse exhibiting an extreme degree of lameness (i.e unwilling to move or bear weight)?

YES → CALL YOUR VET

↓

5) Is there a large defect or separation of the tissues (i.e. the heel bulb is partially torn away from the foot)?

YES → CALL YOUR VET

↓

6) Will your horse allow you to treat the injury?

NO → CALL YOUR VET

↓

YES

↓

Apply Home Treatment
↓

> Clean the wound thoroughly by hosing it with a gentle stream of cold water for 20 to 30 minutes. Using a syringe, flush the wound 2 or 3 times with a Betadine/water solution.

> Apply triple-antibiotic ointment (see "Wound first-aid kit" from issue 2).

> Flush daily until the wound has filled in with new tissue.

> Apply antibiotic ointment daily after flushing.

> If a coronary band/heel bulb is involved (versus a simple abrasion) apply a pressure wrap, and minimize your horse’s movement (stall rest is ideal) until the healing is complete. When you remove the bandage to check the wound. Be sure that the wound doesn't protrude beyond the surrounding skin's surface. This is a sign of developing proud flesh, which is excessive granulation (healing) tissue that grows into a large, unsightly mass. If you see such a sign, call your vet.

If signs of infection occur (pus discharge, fever over 102 degrees, swelling, and/or extreme lameness), call your vet immediately.

What To Expect When You Call Your Vet

Your Vet…..

> Will clean the wound.

> May block the area with a local aesthetic, then suture the wound, if it's above the hairline and no vital structures have been damaged.

> May tap and flush the joint if he suspects coffin-joint involvement, to evaluate it for contamination and infection. If the coffin joint has been invaded, your vet may delay suturing a wound on the heel bulbs or coronary band, so the joint can be flushed regularly to treat/prevent infection.

> May apply a pressure bandage to a heel-bulb or coronary-band wound to keep it clean, and to prevent proud flesh.

> May apply a cast to the foot and pastern-particularly if your horse's coronary band is damaged, to minimize movement, helping to ensure normal hoof growth.

> May use a hoof knife to remove the sole surrounding a puncture wound, which will promote drainage. He will then pack the opening with cotton soaked in iodine,
Betadine, or biozide, and wrap the foot.

> Will leave you with specific instructions for the after care, and schedule a return visit to check on the wound.

Depending on the seriousness of the foot injury, complete healing can take up to several months.

ALWAYS REMEMBER…WHEN IN DOUBT….CALL YOUR VET

THE WOUND DILEMMA Volume 1 Issue 3

Wen-D Acres — Thu, 22 Jan 2009 05:29:00 GMT

Volume 1, Issue 3

THE WOUND DILEMMA

Puncture Wounds

Puncture wounds are deep penetrating holes caused by close encounters with sharp objects, such as nails or wire. Even a small entry wound can be severe because of the dirt and bacteria being driven deep into the tissue by the offending sharp object. If a puncture wound is not treated properly, the onset of infection can occur rapidly. The tetanus bacterium is a prime example. Being that it thrives in an anaerobic environment…one lacking oxygen…it would find the depths of a puncture wound particularly inviting.

Puncture wounds are not limited to impalement injuries. A blunt-trauma injury, such as a kick from another horse, can result in a puncture-type wound. The blow may produce a small surface wound, but the pressure can cause a deep tract to form in the tissues below and can only be detected by probing the wound’s opening. Such a wound should be treated as a puncture as long as a more serious underlying injury, such as a fracture, hasn’t occurred. (Note: If your horse steps on a nail, refer to the “Foot Wounds” section)

Flow chart

1) Is the puncture wound near enough to a joint to have entered the joint cavity? (If so, you’ll see “bubbly” yellow joint fluid seeping from it)
YES → CALL YOUR VET
↓
NO
↓

2) Is excessive swelling, heat, or a puss-like discharge present?
YES → CALL YOUR VET
↓
NO
↓

3) Does your horse have a fever (over 102 degrees) indicating a possible infection?
YES → CALL YOUR VET
↓
NO
↓

4) Is the puncture wound on an extremity?
YES → CALL YOUR VET
↓
NO
↓

5) Does it appear as though a foreign body, such as a nail, is present in the wound?
YES → CALL YOUR VET
↓
NO
↓

6) Will your horse allow you to treat the wound?
NO → CALL YOUR VET
↓
YES
↓

Apply Home Treatment
↓

> Probe the wound with a clean "teat cannula" (long thin tipped tube you can get from your vet) to determine if there is an underlying tract. If so, attach a 30 to 60 cc syringe to the "teat cannula" and flush the wound with a dilute Betadine/water solution (one part Betadine to 20 parts water and appearing as the color of weak tea). This will provide antibacterial protection.

> Continue flushing the wound until the fluid coming out of the wound is as clear as the fluid going in. No antibiotic ointment is necessary to a puncture wound because the wound’s inner recesses aren’t exposed to air and dirt (and it gains antibacterial protection from the Betadine solution).

> Check your horse’s tetanus-immunization status and take appropriate measures.

> Flush the wound daily to prevent infection and allow for healing from the inside out. During this process you may need to remove the scab and it may become increasingly difficult to insert the teat cannula. You need to persevere and continue flushing until the hole has completely healed up to the skin’s surface.

> If the wound is draining, serum build up can cause skin sores. Smear Vaseline on the skin beneath the wound to prevent such a build up.

> Give your horse 1 gram (1,000 milligrams) of Phenylbutazone (“bute”) twice daily (or 2 grams once a day if that is all your schedule allows) for approximately five days. This will reduce inflammation and minimize swelling.

If your horse develops signs of an infection (see flow chart)
Call your vet immediately

What To Expect If You Call Your Vet

Your Vet…..

> Will probe the wound to determine the depth and severity. If it appears to be an uncomplicated puncture, (not involving bone, joint or tendon sheath) he will flush it out with an antiseptic solution, such as Betadine and water.

> May collect a joint fluid sample to check for signs of an infection if the injury is near a joint. If joint involvement is suspected, he may also flush the joint.

> May x-ray the wound area to determine a treatment course if a foreign body or extensive damage is suspected.

> May infuse antibiotic ointment into the wound to help prevent/treat infection.

> May prescribe systemic antibiotics, in the form of pills or injections to help stave off infection; he may also prescribe non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, such as Bute or Banimine, to help reduce inflammation and swelling.

> Will evaluate your horse’s tetanus-immunization status and take appropriate measures.

Most uncomplicated puncture wounds respond well to treatment and you can expect your horse to heal in a week to 10 days.

ALWAYS REMEMBER…WHEN IN DOUBT….CALL YOUR VET

THE WOUND DILEMMA Volume 1 Issue 2

Wen-D Acres — Thu, 22 Jan 2009 05:16:00 GMT

Volume1: Issue 2

THE WOUND DILEMMA

When To Call The Vet - When To Treat It Yourself

After hosing the wound off, indecision hits. Should you call your Veterinarian or is this a wound you can handle yourself? If you decide to handle it yourself, which ointments, powders and treatments are appropriate to ensure proper healing? In this article, I will provide a step-by-step approach for assessing an injury along with advice for first aid kit supplies that you should always have on hand.

So Let’s begin with Wound Basics

Below are five rules to follow when assessing an injury to your horse. This will also be helpful information to provide your Vet, if you do need to call him out.

1) Examine your whole horse. When you discover your horse is injured, you will be tempted to focus on the first wound you see, which could cause you to miss another major problem. Take a moment to step back and perform the following evaluation:

> Is he showing signs of shock? A rapid heartbeat (greater than 80 beats per minute), respiratory rate (over 30 breaths per minute), sweating or cold ears and lower legs
>Examine your horse from head to toe. Is he suffering from more than one wound? If so, evaluate each one using the flow chart I will be providing in next week's article.
> Could colic have caused him to injure himself? Observe your horse's behavior for signs of discomfort, breaking out in patchy sweat, looking at his belly, trying to lie down or trying to roll.

2) Evaluate the bleeding. Your horse may bleed a lot---but how much is too much? While in most cases, the bleeding you see won't be life-threatening, excessive bleeding can be. Here's how to determine what is excessive and what to do until the Vet arrives.

> If bleeding is profuse, bright red, or pulsating, he could have severed an artery and could bleed to death. Apply a direct pressure wrap over the wound opening with anything you have at hand to stop the flow of blood---and have someone call your vet immediately.
> If the blood is dark red, your horse is bleeding from a vein, which is slower, and responds well to direct pressure. Your horse is less likely to bleed to death. However, if bleeding is profuse, call your Vet immediately.

3) Protect against tetanus. Because the tetanus bacterium is everywhere, be sure to keep your horse's vaccinations up to date. Know your horse’s vaccination status. If he's never been vaccinated (or not in the last three months) he will need a tetanus booster vaccine, which will give him enough protection to get him through the healing process.

4) Avoid overkill. If you determine that this is a wound for veterinarian attention, avoid applying any ointments, sprays or powders, which could impede suturing efforts. Instead, hose the wound with a gentle spray of cold water. This will reduce inflammation, clean the wound, and not damage sensitive tissues. If you can manage the wound yourself, avoid any preparations labelled as "caustic wound dressings", as they can be quite damaging to healthy tissue.

5) A stitch in time… You should call your vet immediately for any fresh wound you believe needs suturing. An appropriately treated wound up to several weeks old can still be sutured successfully but keep in mind the sooner, the better. The longer you wait, the more you run the risk of having secondary issues to deal with, including infection, which will need to be treated with antibiotics before suturing can take place.

WOUND FIRST-AID KIT

> Betadine (in a clean container, mix one part Betadine with twenty parts water for an antiseptic flushing solution)
>Large needless syringe (30 or 60 cc)
> A long blunt ended needle with which to probe wounds, and to attach to a syringe for flushing injury site “a teat canula”
> Triple-antibiotic ointment
>Non-steroidal eye ointment
>Furacine, or providone-iodine-based ointment
>Pressure wrap materials
> Phenylbutazone ("bute") powder or paste
>Keep your first-aid kit up-to-date at all times, and make sure you keep it in an easily accessible place

In the next section, I will divide wounds into five categories; Puncture, Foot, Lower-Leg, Upper-Body and Head Wound. Please note that puncture wounds are the only category based on type and merits it's own section, because treatment is universal regardless of puncture location; the other categories focus on wound location because each requires unique treatment.

Each category has it's own flow chart, asking you specific questions regarding your horse's wound. Your "yes" or "no" answers will tell you whether or not to call your Vet. If the injury meets the criteria for "home treatment", I'll outline the steps you need to take. If veterinary attention is indicated, I'll tell you what to expect when your vet arrives.

ALWAYS REMEMBER…WHEN IN DOUBT….CALL YOUR VET

KNOW YOUR HORSE Volume 1 Issue 1

Wen-D Acres — Wed, 21 Jan 2009 09:07:00 GMT

Volume 1: Issue 1

KNOW YOUR HORSE - What Every Horse Owner Should Know

Normal Body Temperature 99 – 101 F If you don’t know how to take your horse’s temperature, have your Vet show you how. Always keep your thermometer handy.

Normal Pulse 30 – 40 beats per minute for an adult If you’re not sure, have your Vet show you how.

Normal Respiratory rate 6 – 14 breaths per minute for an adult Often this is irregular and hard to count. A sustained rate of 20 or so at rest would be normal.

Normal Intestinal Activity You can hear normal intestinal sounds without a stethoscope Listen to your horse regularly with your bare ear so that you can recognize normal and abnormal sounds and activity.

Recognize Abnormal Behaviours and know “Best Bets” for the cause

Off Food > Colic – watch for other signs >Fever – take temperatureo Teeth problemso Water deprivationo Other medical problems

Laying Down > Colic – watch for other signs > Founder/Laminitis (stiff, stilted gate and feet are warm)

Eating Slow >Fever > Urinary disease

Diarrhea > Dietary change>Colic - watch for other signs>Other medical problems (often abnormal temperature and loss of appetite)

Stiff and Reluctant to move >Tying up – onset during exercise > Laminitis – hindquarters tucked up and feet warmo Early Colic – watch for other signs

Straining to Pass Manure>Colic

Straining to Urinate > Colic > Urinary disease

Severe Lameness – one foot > Abscesso Nail or stoneo Punctureo Fracture

Pawing, Stretching, Looking at Sides, Rolling, Laying Down > Colic

Depressed > Fever > Colic

Snotty Nose/Cough >Upper respiratory infection – check temperature> Lower respiratory infection – check temperatureo Allergic – irritated attitude, appetite and temperature normal

Runny Eyes > In both eyes and non-painful – could be allergy > In one eye and non-painful – could be blocked tear duct > In one eye and painful – could be injury or infection so call your Vet

ALWAYS REMEMBER…WHEN IN DOUBT….CALL YOUR VET

WEN-D ACRES International School Of Horsemanship

Wen-D Acres — Tue, 20 Jan 2009 08:06:51 GMT

Welcome to Wen-D Acres, The Training Center. Check back weekly for new articles on "An Uncommon Sense Approach" to our equine friends.

Wendy Teddiman, Trainer (wen-dacres@cox.net) (http://Wen-D-Acres.com) (http://shop.wen-d-acres.com) 949-357-8040