Recent Feedback
I just took my horse out of his stall and he was very lame on his left front. Walking pretty much on his tip toe. I rode him last night and all was fine. It was raining today so he was not turned out. He was shod on Thursday. I just soaked his foot. He was sweaty on the left side of his neck??
Optional Information: Type of Animal: Quarter hor se Gender: Gelding Age: 7 Name of Horse: Apollo
Hi there, I'm Dr B and I'm happy to help you with your questions today.
Did you notice any nails out of place on the new shoe? Did the hoof feel warm to the touch (especially compared to the other hooves)? Did you notice any swelling?
Okay. A loose nail, or a shoe that has moved slightly may be the cause of your problem then. Since he's lame in just the one foot, something like laminitis is less likely. The other possibility would be an abscess.
He is probably sweating because of pain/anxiety about pain
For tonight, I would give him a gram of Bute for pain, and call the vet in the morning
If its an abscess, the vet will par it out, if its a loose shoe, they'll remove the shoe which will make him more comfortable until you can get the farrier back out
Yes, I have seen them crop up overnight
(even in my own horse!)
You're welcome! Please press the 'accept' button so I receive credit for my answer and have a good night. Best of luck with Apollo! ~Dr. B
Experience: I currently work in small animal medicine but received extensive training in equine medicine and was a member of AAEP.