deaf horse?

[katelaw]

Hi all, i have had my new horse for 2 weeks and am beginning to think he may be deaf or hard of hearing!! On a hack yesterday a dog suddenly went mad behind a thick hedge, barking and running around, it made me jump but my horse didnt even flicker a ear. it was only when the dog appeared that my horse spooked. Have had many incidents like this and wondered if anyone else has a deaf horse and if it causes any problems? thanks

 

[scotsmare]

Very strange - he could just have been totally unworried by the dog's barking. Did you have him vetted?

 

[Rainbowrider]

Do vets check for hearing in a vetting?

 

[ladyt25]

I think deafness in horses is fairly rare. He may just not be over sensitive to sound. Have you tried doing 'tests' at home? Maybe try banging a bucket/rattling feed when he can't see it, see if he reacts at all, that sort of thing.

If no response then yes maybe get your vet to check him over.

 

[vennessa]

Most of ours don't react to barking dogs but would jump a little if one ran out at them.
I have never come across a deaf horse but saying that we have been suspicious of my old marefor the past year.
I have spoke to the vet about it and he was not concerned as she is fit and healthy apart from what we already know and it does not bother her.Rattling the feed bucket when she cannot see it is a good idea. My mare doesn't react at all