Hock I jections

[Chan1981]

Hi,

I’m looking at buying a new horse and we have got to the vetting stage however I’ve now found out that he had had his hocks injected with steroids. This was some time in the last year or so and was carried out because he was investigated by the vet as he was struggling to pick up the right canter lead on one rein. Is this something done routinely as this is the impression they have given me or should I be overly worried? Horse is 13 and used for pony club type activities. They have been open about it but now I’m worried he will fail the vetting which is an expense in itself.

 

[L&M]

Tbh I would not knowingly buy a horse that needed regular joint injections.

Although many people routinely inject horses joints, it is an indication of arthritic changes that could either never cause too much of an issue, or could rapidly worsen. Whichever outcome, joint injections will only prolong a horses use and not cure the underlying condition.

Not only will you have the expense, joint injections also do not come without risks - if steroid based you may will need to be wary of laminitis, and having had a horse get a joint infection after a hock injection, would be very wary going that route again.

If the horse is sound it may pass its vetting, but I imagine need to be declared for insurance purposes, which could mean higher premiums and exclusions on the affected joints.

 

[Chan889]

Thank you, I’ve decided not to proceed for all of the reasons you have listed! I’m not willing to take the risk much to my dismay as he was a cracking little horse.

 

[asmp]

Thank you, I’ve decided not to proceed for all of the reasons you have listed! I’m not willing to take the risk much to my dismay as he was a cracking little horse.

Probably the best call. As someone who has a horse who looks as though its going to need regular jabs, it’s going to be expensive.

 

[ownedbyaconnie]

Definitely best call. My pony has just started needing them. Steroids haven't helped much but we've just tried Arthramid but if that doesn't last long then we'll go on to fusion. If she does have the fusion then I'll have maxed out my £5k vet fee limit in less than a year.

However, my friends horse does take to the steroid injection very well and only needs it once a year.

 

[Pippity]

Mine responds very well to the steroid injections (for now) but I wouldn't take one on with it as a known issue. Good call.