Ridecamp: [RC] [RC] Spayed mares/sidebone/navicular

> Also,
> we are planning to have her feet xrayed to see if she would have 
> any
> problem doing endurance.  Which would be the more important view to
> have
> taken - a shot for possible side bone or for navicular?

If you've got a good vet, put your trust there and go with his/her
opinion on what you should do.  The vet may think a good soundness
exam would be better, or checking the legs, or......  

Is this a horse you already own?  If so, then here would be my
advice.  Unless I was having a problem, I probably wouldn't bother
with x-rays.  Simply because if you do find something, it doesn't
really matter -- unless it is causing a problem for the horse.  For
example, sidebone it not really a big problem for most horses.  My
vet has said he has seen probably over 200-300 sets of radiographs of
horses that have sidebone and not one of those horses was lame from the
sidebone.  

On the other hand, if you know you've got sidebone or suspect navicular
you can take extra care with the shoeing.  Though, you should do
that anyway so I guess in my mind it doesn't really matter -- shoe or
trim the horse well, and ride it -- if it stays sound then keep on
riding.  If not, then give the vet something to do. :+) 

k