Can you believe that it’s Fall already?!
Are you are savoring the last nice day by hitting the mountains with your horse before the snow is too deep?
Or maybe getting ready to ride indoors for the winter?
One important item is having your veterinarian check to see if your horse needs dental care. Even if your horse looks in great condition, he or she may still need teeth floated. Dental care should be a priority in maintaining the health and well-being of your horse.
Just because a horse does not appear to you to have a dental issue, this does not mean there isn’t one brewing. Often there is a significant amount of potentially irreversible wear to a horse’s teeth before outward signs of a problem appear. This is why it is important to address potential dental problems BEFORE develops outward signs of a dental issue.
Here is a list of signs that could be indicators of a dental problem:
- Dropping feed or hay while eating
- Excessive salivation
- Difficulty in chewing
- Weight loss
- Undigested feed or hay particles in manure
- Head tossing
- Bit chewing
- Fighting the bit
- Resisting bridling
- Foul mouth odor
- Nasal discharge
- Swelling of the face
“An oral examination should be an essential part of an annual physical examination by a veterinarian. Every dental exam provides the opportunity to perform routine preventative dental maintenance. The end result is a healthier, more comfortable horse that is able to gain maximum nutrition from hay through the winter. This is not only great for the health of the horse, but also great for reducing the feed bill!”
At Hardaway Veterinary Hospital you will get to be part of the entire experience. Dr. Parrott and our other equine veterinarians use gentle and sensitive techniques while handling your horse.
If you are interested in more information before scheduling an appointment click HERE to read an article recommended by our very own Dr. Parrott.
Do you have a memorable anecdote about how dental health greatly affected your horses health? We would love to share your story!
You can schedule an appointment either by phone or directly through our website.
We will also be running our second annual Fall Equine Dental promotion during the month of November! Keep an eye on our Facebook page for details!
