What do you do for lameness?

[Trotting]

Just a general enquiry as to whether you're one of the:

- leave for a day or two and see if there is any improvement
- immediatly call vet/farrier etc
- Treat in ways you believe are correct.
- Other.

Obviously this depends upon situation of lameness but, I mean typical cases, say pulled shoe, "feeling off" or strain/injury. Not deep wounds etc.

 

[blitznbobs]

Depends on the degree of lameness etc.

If it looks like lami or something then vet straight away.

If it looks like an injury and they're between 1 and 4 tenths lame (IYKWIM) I may not call the vet for a few days, give them some danilon (sp?) and see if it gets better.

If I think it's in the foot I might call the vet or farrier.

So the unhelpful answer is 'it depends'

Blitz

 

[Finlib]

I agree it depends .If an obvious cut then depends how deep and whether a joint or tendon area is involved if sensitive to hoof testers then call the farrier to come out asap to investigate
If one of the T/B has pulled off a shoe then they are unlevel so phone farrier to come and put a boot on the foot to prevent foot breaking up.
I have a very good vet who I can phone any time and talk through what I am seeing .He will often make a judgement on how to proceed and whether to treat myself and give Danillon or whether to come out .
It also gives him a heads up on the situation in case I get a sudden dramatic turn of events and need him NOW!
He is really good and never wants to visit unless he thinks it is really necessary.
I do think a good relationship with your vet and farrier is really important.

 

[JenHunt]

1 - pick out feet
2 - feel feet and legs for signs of heat/swelling/injury
3 - usually cold hose the offending limb
4 - walk/trot up to see if that's changed anything
5 - Box rest with stable bandages
6 - then usually leave 24 hours, with more cold hosing to see if it improves.
7 - if no improvement call vet, if some improvement monitor for another 24 hours