When to Call the Vet 

According to the Equine Industry Welfare Guidelines for Horses, Ponies and Donkeys a veterinary surgeon should be consulted urgently by the owner or person in charge of the horse if there are any signs of:

  • Acute abdominal pain or colic
  • Serious injury involving deep wounds, severe haemorrhage, suspected bone fractures or damage to the eyes
  • Evidence of straining for more than 30 minutes by a mare due to foal
  • Inability to rise or stand
  • Inability or abnormal reluctance to move
  • Severe diarrhoea
  • Prolonged/ abnormal sweating, high temperature, anxiety, restlessness or loss of appetite
  • Any other signs of acute pain or injury
  • Respiratory distress

A veterinary surgeon should be consulted within 48 hours of the owner or person in charge becoming aware of the following conditions:

  • Marked lameness that has not responded to normal first aid treatment
  • Injury that has not responded to normal first aid treatment
  • Signs suggestive of Strangles or other infectious disease, nasal discharge, raised temperature, enlarged lymph nodes or cough
  • Sustained loss of appetite
  • Persistent weight loss
  • Skin conditions that have not responded to treatment, including saddle sores and girth galls
  • Other sub-acute illness or injury

Obviously this list is a minimum indication of the conditions that warrant prompt attention should they be observed in your horse. At Central Equine Vets we pride ourselves in being a friendly and pro-active practice. As such, if you have any questions or concerns regarding the health and husbandry of your horse, then please feel free to call us on: 0131 664 5606 or e-mail us: [email protected].

Back to Fact Files

Swanston Farm109 / 3A Swanston RoadEdinburghEH10 7DS0131 664 5606find us
39 High StreetKinrossKY13 8AA01577 863333find us
Our practice
Emergencies
Our services
Make an appointment
Registration
Latest News