Lameness is one of the most common problems found in horse, and there can be many reasons for the horse lameness, it can be both man-made and nature-made.
Sometimes lameness in the horse is temporary and all it need is a good amount of rest to get cured, but others might require some veterinary attention. So, we need to pay a close attention to the nature of the lameness, before going for any kind of lameness treatment. If we rule out accidents, laminitis and navicular disease are two of the most common cause for the lameness in horses.
Now, the question is when should we act to prevent lameness in our horse? Obviously, the best time to act is when the horse is fit. There are some precautionary measures, if take properly, will certainly help in preventing your horse from lameness. Following activities will significantly minimize the chances of lameness in your horse.
1. Proper and timely shoeing: The importance of timely shoeing can’t ever be overrated. Ask other horse owners to recommend a qualified and well-experienced farrier, never go for a novice farrier.
2. Work footing: This should be sufficiently deep, as this will lessen the concussion but if very deep work footing is done then it strains tendons or ligaments. A balance is must.
3. Legs and Feet Inspection: Examine the legs and feet before you take your horse for a ride.
4. Use Leg Protection: Use proper leg protection and consult a vet for recommendation.
5. Feed Supplements: There are some well-researched feed supplements available in market that will help you prevent lameness in your horse.
6. Condition the horse carefully: Regular, long and slow walk keeps the tendons and ligaments in good shape. Feeding excess food should also be avoided as a bulky body puts excess weight on joints, tendons, and ligaments.
7. Warm-up/cool-down: This is akin to our jogging. Ten minutes of warm-up before assigning your horse to strenuous work will free horse’s muscles and joints. Similarly a ten minute of cool-down will help your horse in achieving normalcy.