Digital pulse - is this possible

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splash30

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Is it possible to have a pony with digital pulse in all legs but sound as a pound on a circle and in a straight line, and no other signs of discomfort and very happy in himself (reeking normal havoc)?
 
Yes, of course it's possible... He should have a pulse... it's whether it's different to his main pulse that's the issue. The weather or some other factor may be making his overall pulse faster than normal, so make sure you compare his digital pulse to what his carotoid is today. If it is still different it's likely to be a foot infection brewing but not yet painful enough for him to be lame (it soon will be though!) I'd hoof test thoroughly now and see if you can release the pressure before he's hopping lame.
 
I think the important thing with taking the digital pulse is to know what is normal for your horse or pony. Then you know when it has altered and can pick up on subtle changes which might lead to a problem later.

Anyone who has had a pony with the dreaded L gets neurotic about digital pulses I think!
 
I agree, if you are good at finding them then you should be able to feel a pulse and probably quite easily in this hot weather we have been having. It is a bounding pulse that is the warning sign. My farrier once told me that it feels like beasties trying to get out when it is bounding. That seems like a pretty good description to me. It is good to know what is normal for your horse in different situations, ie standing in a stable, after exercise, whenit is hot. As has been said if you have ever had a pony with lami you get expert and ever so slightly paranoid about digital pulses......
 
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