Poor Performance Investigations

When a horse stops performing to their expected level, there can be a long list of possible explanations. A logical diagnostic approach is critical, whilst at the same time we recognise that not every horse can be tested for every possible problem. We will take a thorough history from you before examining the horse in detail and then making a plan of investigations.

The type of problems that may be underlying a poorly performing horse include:

• Low grade lameness or a bilateral lameness (affecting two front or two hind limbs at the same time)
• Over-riding dorsal spinous processes (‘Kissing Spines’).
• Gastric ulceration.
• Airway disease.
• Muscle disease such us low grade tying up
• Viral or inflammatory conditions.
• Hormonal problems in mares.

We would advise talking to one our equine vets prior to a consultation to gain an understanding of the problem. In some cases it may be best to see the horse ridden to start with to gain an understanding of the problem being encountered.