Super Vets

Pet Care Fact Sheets

Horse Fact Sheets

Note - all these fact sheets are published in Adobe Acrobat (PDF) format. You will need an Adobe Reader to view these files in a browser. This reader can be downloaded free of charge from the Adobe Site.

Dental Care

Equine dental care is often neglected. As humans we are always off to the dentists for our 6 month check-ups. Horses are just like us, they can get tooth ache, cavities and gum disease. So... why shouldn't your horse get regular check-ups too? Knowing what goes on in your horse's mouth will help you prevent any discomfort for your best friend.
View PDF here

Emergencies

Every owner will at some time have to deal with an emergency involving their horse. It is essential to know how to deal with such emergencies before they arise and to know who to call when they do. Although concern is understandable when you think your horse is unwell or in pain, if your horse is ill at night your vet will appreciate it if you can wait until the morning to call them unless the condition is an emergency.
View PDF here

Caring for your horse before and after an operation

There may be an occasion when your horse will need to undergo surgery, this may be for emergency or for an elective procedure such as castration. Whatever the reason, you need to know how to care for your horse before and after surgery to ensure the surgery goes as smoothly as possible and to ensure a successful recovery afterwards.
View PDF here

Colic

Colic is a word that every horse owner dreads. Unfortunately, most horses will suffer from colic at some point and it is essential for you to know how to identify the symptoms and what to do next. Although the majority of colic cases resolve with minimal help, getting eterinary attention at the right moment can mean the difference between life and death for your horse.
View PDF here

Vaccinations

Horses are susceptible to a number of serious infectious diseases, eg influenza (flu), and fortunately, vaccines are available for some of these common conditions.
View PDF here

Worms, the hidden Enemy

Every horse owner has heard about the danger of worms but without some knowledge it is hard to understand the full impact of a worm infestation (or burden). Intestinal worms can seriously damage your horse and in some circumstances can kill it - implementing an effective worming programme is one the greatest responsibilities of a horse owner.
View PDF here

Bandaging

There may be a number of occasions when you will need to bandage your horse's legs. Bandaging can be used for protection, support and injury. Correct leg bandaging is essential - applied incorrectly, bandages may cause discomfort, restrict blood flow and even cause injury. Learning the correct bandaging techniques can save your horse from potential damage.
View PDF here

Equine Passports

If you are unsure about the requirements for equine passports then read on. Passports contain important information about your horse, including details of who owns the horse, identification (including identification humber) and much more.
View PDF here

Lameness examinations

Unfortunately, lameness in horses is very common and it is one of the most likely reasons that a horse will require veterinary attention. As a horse owner you can help in the evaluation of your horse's problem by being observant and by keeping good records.
View PDF here

Respiratory Problems

Horses and ponies can be susceptible to a number of conditions that affect the respiratory tract. The causes of these can be very varied - from infections and allergies to anatomical defects. The seriousness of the conditions also varies: some conditions will resolve without eterinary treatment but others are life-threatening. Many respiratory conditions lead to coughing, others result in a nasal discharge from the nose or abnormal respiratory noise. If there is any change in your horse's breathing it is always advisable to contact your vet.
View PDF here

Strangles (Streptococcus equi infection)

Strangles in a highly contagious infectious disease and can be serious or occasionally even fatal as a result of late diagnosis. now what to look out for and you will almost certainly avoid the unnecessary suffering of your horse and others.
View PDF here

Vetstream has kindly provided these fact sheets for use on the Super Vets site. Vetstream is the UK's leading provider of online, high quality veterinary information for vets and pet owners. Visit their website at www.vetstream.co.uk.