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Discussion on DJD, ring bone, pain
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New Member:
Jgardner
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Posted on Tuesday, Mar 30, 2004 - 1:22 pm:
I just recently purchased a wonderful Dutch Warmblood in January. He is an X jump circuit horse. Basically, he was thrown out due to joint problems. He only jumps cross poles once a week now. He has ring bone low in front right. My trainer says he is still having problems moving and suggests a bute a day. I really am hesitant as my last horse hemmoraged severely (I had to put him down) after colic surgery last October. I can't help but think the bute didn't help this. I really don't want to put Oscar on it.
I had Oscar vetted in January. He is stiff on the right side. Last night he missed a couple of steps in his right rear. The spring weather in Michigan I'm sure doesn't help matters either.
I've had him on devil's claw tincture for 3 weeks or so. My trainer doesn't seem to think it's helping
I made an appointment with the vet on Friday. How do I proceed from here?
More specifically, what steps should I see the vet go through to get a proper diagnosis. I've read about the infections that cause arthritic symptoms. How do I know this isn't the problem? I want to get into this now, because everything I read says the earlier the diagnosis and treatment the better the chances.
I am fairly horse ignorant. I've only had horses for a couple of years. I'm not sure what to do and rely heavily upon my trainer.
Is bute really all that bad once a day for life?
Jacquie
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Moderator:
DrO
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Posted on Tuesday, Mar 30, 2004 - 10:22 pm:
Hello Jacquie,
The question of how do I trust my vet's opinion is a tough one. Can he explain to you in clear terms what is happening, why, and what the prognosis is? If it is not clear or if the answers are unsatisfactory call in a second opinion. Anytime a poor prognosis is given I recommend a second opinion even to my own clients. Perhaps the best thing you can do between now and the vet check is educate yourself, see Equine Diseases » Lameness » The Diagnosis of Lameness in the Horse for more on diagnosing lameness.
DrO
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