SKILLED LAMENESS EVALUATION FOR YOUR HORSE

Central to our relationship with the horse is our appreciation of its athletic ability. Lameness, which can be caused by a wide range of issues, impacts this ability and is a source of discomfort for the animal and worry for the owner. Evaluating lameness requires the skills of the equine veterinarian. Lameness may be caused by pain, a physical problem, or a neurological condition. Most problems arise from the musculoskeletal system (muscles, tendons, ligaments, bones, or joints), leading to abnormal movement at the walk, trot, or canter.

At Old Dominion Equine Associates, our lameness evaluations center on a systematic approach. The process includes physical examination and watching the horse move in hand and on a longe line or under saddle—whichever situation best demonstrates the lameness.

Based on our evaluation, we take a reasoned approach to lameness with emphasis on long-term goals for our equine athletes. By isolating the area of concern through systematic examination (and advanced diagnostics), we are able to focus treatment, helping ensure a rapid resolution of the problem.

At Old Dominion Equine Associates, we work to produce a balanced and bias-free assessment. We approach each case with a fresh set of eyes, and we let the horse “tell us” how to conduct our evaluation. We make an honest assessment and provide recommendations you can trust. When we determine that a problem requires specialists or special care, we will recommend the best options available.