ridecamp@endurance.net: vet check procedures

vet check procedures

Karen Steenhof (ksteenho@eagle.idbsu.edu)
10 Aug 1995 14:12:43 -0600

I agree with Nancy that it is better for a horse if the vet checks
it just before it leaves its hold than just after it has met
criteria and entered its hold. After an hour or even a half hour a
horse can start to stiffen up or show the beginning signs of colic.
These symptoms may not be apparent right after a horse comes in and is
still full of adrenalin.

At the FEI ride in Calgary 2 years ago, my horse got in serious
trouble due to an anterior enteritis. I believe the problem would not
have been as severe if the vet had examined the horse at the end
rather than the beginning of our 64-mile hold.

Waiting until 5 or 10 minutes before the hold, however, can be a
hassle for the rider, particularly if everyone shows up at once.

Karen Steenhof
Boise