What should be checked at a "bute check"?

[Yardbird]

When a horse is on regular bute it has to be checked by a vet 6 monthly to be able to prescribe the bute. My horse is on bute ,but the checks vary by which vet does them and I was wondering what should be checked.

 

[Fransurrey]

At a guess I'd say blood test for liver enzymes and alkaline phosphatase/serum albumin for intestinal irritation/inflammation. Why don't you ask the vet why it varies, though?

 

[ycbm]

That it's alive and the Bute is not being taken for another animal.

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[rara007]

Whatever the vet feels is needed to prescribe another’s 6 months of the drug.

 

[Yardbird]

Did not ask the vet as I did not want her to think I was complaining,but I just wondered, not a biggie, just curious.Things that have been checked over the years are heart rate, seen trotted up, asked about poos , thats about it,but not all in every visit.Really I just want the bute prescribed and wondered what would make the vet decide not to.

 

[teddypops]

My old pony doesn’t get a specific check, vet does his vaccinations and that’s enough to say horse is under his care. As others have said, it would vary per vet. What does your vet do that has made you query it?

 

[Trouper]

Bit like a medicine review for a person really - to check you still need it and for any effects it may be having. I agree - check with vet what he is looking for.

 

[AandK]

My 29yo is on regular bute, when she has a check up it's just a case of having a chat with me, giving her a quick check and seeing her move.

 

[SEL]

Quick once over and listen to his heart - usually when they are out for dental or jabs. Tbh I think it's pretty much like YCBM said - he's still with us, still got a dodgy leg and still needing bute.

 

[Leam_Carrie]

That it's alive and the Bute is not being taken for another animal.

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Agree with this. My vets were happy if horse has been seen for anything within 6 months. Was for a long-term condition in an older horse.