For todays post I thought I’d do a pretty important one to catch up with my normal post schedule. Since getting my first job with horses I’ve learned so many things I never imagined I’d need to know. Luckily for me I was not overwhelmed by it, I let it fuel my need for more knowledge instead. Anyways, for todays post we’re going through medical & vital signs for your horse.

After taking on horses like Wonka, Stanley, Caz and now Capone, I’ve opened my eyes to how important the grooming process is when it comes to finding potential problems with your horse. A full body grooming gives you every opportunity to find nicks, gashes and bruises before they get out of hand. However, accidents happen so here are things to look for when things aren’t right.

Heart Rate (30-44 beats per minute): Too Fast could mean recent exercise, pain, fever, heat stroke, shock or anxiety. Too Slow could mean shock, hypothermia, reaction to poison plants or medication.

Temperature (99-101 degrees): High temperature could mean heat stroke, infection, or recent exercise. Low temperature could mean shock, hypothermia or unable to produce heat.

Respiratory Rate (10 -15 breaths/min.): Too Fast could mean recent exercise, heat stroke, shock, respiratory or electrolyte problems. Too Slow could mean hypothermia, shock, or a reaction to a medication/ plant.

Capillary Refil Time: Press on a horse’s gums, they will blanch, then they should return to pink or normal color within 2 seconds. Too Fast could mean high blood pressure, anxiety or nervousness.Too Slow could mean shock or poisoning.

Digital Pulse: Found inside of the ankle, below the fetlock: it should be hard to find. Too Strong it could be related to foot problems or laminitis.

Gum Color: The gums should be pale or pink. Too Pale could mean anemia. Bluish tinted gums is usually from a lack of oxygen. Could be shock, colic, heart or lung problems.

Gut Sounds: Place your ear just at the base of the belly near the hinds and listen for gut sounds. You SHOULD hear long and short grumbles. If you do not hear any sounds it could mean colic and you should monitor for symptoms.

Thanks for taking the time to read this very important post on vitals to check when things don’t feel right with your 4 hooved friends. Of course, ALWAYS consult your veterinarian if you are really unsure in any medical situation you find your horse in.