Stiff, lopsided horse, missing one shoe...

[Bertolie]

Got my horse in this morning to go riding and discovered he had pulled a back shoe off so thought I would take him in the indoor school instead. Grooming him he was very fidgety, rocking slightly from side to side on back end and kept lifting his tail. He also looked as though he was tucking his bum underneath him and was standing with a very wide stance on the back legs.

Had a fellow livery look at him. She is an equine physiology - qualified but not practicing. Standing behind him she said his pelvis was about 3 degrees lower on his near side and he was holding his tail to the right. Upon closer inspection he had a swelling at top of his near hind which we think could be a kick or knock. This is on the same leg as he has lost the shoe.

 

[Bertolie]

Oops posted too soon! She recommended turnout to keep him moving, rugged to keep him warm and see how he is in a couple of days.

My query is, is he lopsided because he has lost one shoe or because his pelvis is out and should I have the shoe put back on or leave it off until he's feeling better? Should I call a vet or back person? Horse is fine in himself.

Ant thoughts or advice appreciated.

 

[BlackRider]

my guess would be if he's rocking from side to side. he's in some discomfort, i'd get the vet if no better by Monday.

 

[Echo Bravo]

Rug him and get the vet out first thing monday.