No pavarotti.

[holsteiner]

I have just bought a big 8 year old Holsteiner (18 hands) for casual riding and notice that his neigh is very weak. I have also noticed the odd time (three times in four months,) while leading a bit of coughing as if something has gone down the wrong way. He sounds fine during exercise (no roaring or whistling) and is working well. He has had poor muscle development due to lack of exercise and I am trying to build him up with feeding, lunging and riding. I am just wondering if he has had surgery in the past for something like Laryngeal paralysis (common in large horses) although I don't see any evidence. Any thoughts? Thank you.

 

[Goldenstar]

I have just bought a big 8 year old Holsteiner (18 hands) for casual riding and notice that his neigh is very weak. I have also noticed the odd time (three times in four months,) while leading a bit of coughing as if something has gone down the wrong way. He sounds fine during exercise (no roaring or whistling) and is working well. He has had poor muscle development due to lack of exercise and I am trying to build him up with feeding, lunging and riding. I am just wondering if he has had surgery in the past for something like Laryngeal paralysis (common in large horses) although I don't see any evidence. Any thoughts? Thank you.

He might well have done , get the vet to do a slap test( not 100% but a good indication)

 

[mynutmeg]

Sounds like a good chance he has been hobdayed or had a tie back done, only sure way to tell is to scope him.

 

[mytwofriends]

It does sounds like he's had a tieback and/or been hobdayed. My big horse went through the operation 5 years ago having been a terrible roarer, and apart from the very muted neigh you wouldn't be able to to tell at all. The scar is invisible and there's nothing to feel.