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Geriatric Wellness Evaluation
Do you have an older horse? Is he starting to have trouble holding weight or is he stiffer than he use to be? As our horses age, their bodies go through similar changes as we do. Monitoring and early detection of these changes due to the aging process, allows us to make an appropriate plan and changes to help our horses live longer and healthier lives. Our Geriatric Wellness Evaluation will take an in-depth look at your geriatric horse and help you formulate a plan for the rest of the year.
The Geriatric Wellness Evaluation begins with the following exams:
- Complete Physical Exam including eyes, lungs, heart, gastrointestinal tract and body condition
- Dental Exam with sedation to evaluate tooth and gum condition
- Baseline Lameness Evaluation including palpation of the legs and evaluation of locomotion at a trot
- Fecal Exam to look for intestinal parasites
This initial examination will provide us with an overall picture of what your horse’s condition is. From there, if there are additional concerns about various metabolic diseases or laminitis, additional tests can be included on that day’s visit.
Additional Tests that can be added on include:
- Complete Blood Count (CBC) – looking for anemia, infection, low protein
- Chemistry Panel – looking at liver and kidney function and electrolyte balance
- Tests for Insulin Resistance (Metabolic Disease), Cushings, or Hypothyroid Disease
- Laminitis Evaluation including hoof tester exam and two radiographs of each front foot
- If your horse is in need of a dental float or sheath/udder cleaning, it can be done at this time as well.
From the information collected the veterinarian will create a report and a specific plan for your horse that you will receive within the following 2 weeks.
This report will include:
Digital Photographs with a weight estimate and body condition score
Nutritional, Feed and Exercise Recommendations
Vaccination and Deworming Recommendations
Dental Care Plan
Medical Therapy if indicated
The evaluation can be done at the farm or in the clinic.
If you are interested in having your geriatric horse’s health evaluated, please call our office.
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