Cardiology
Horses are very athletic animals and their hearts and cardiovascular system have evolved such that their cardiovascular function has a much greater capacity relative to us “mere mortal humans”. However, heart problems are still of frequent concern in horses performing poorly and in older horses.
Heart problems in horses may go unnoticed until detected at the time of yearly vaccinations, as part of a pre-purchase examination (vetting) or may result in subtle symptoms like less willingness to go forward or filled legs. In general terms, heart problems in horses can be due to an irregular heart rhythm (arrhythmia or “heart misfiring”) or heart murmurs (often due to “leaky” heart valves).
Our team of vets is equipped with the latest diagnostic equipment to fully investigate your horse’s heart problem.
A full investigation includes:
- Clinical assessment and stethoscope examination.
- ECG (recording of heart rhythm). This can be done at the rest and during exercise. Using a small halter attached to the saddle or surcingle, your horse can be galloped or monitored for up to 24h. The recording can then be downloaded (or sent real time) to a laptop to be analysed.
- Ultrasound examination of the heart, including colour doppler. This allows us to assess the size of the heart chambers and movement of the valves. The colour doppler shows the movement of the blood through the heart and allows us to assess “leaky” heart valves.
The following full cardiac assessment will give you answers to questions such as:
- Is my horse safe to ride?
- If so what level of work can I do?
- Will the heart condition get worse with time?
- Should I purchase this horse?
If a heart murmur has been detected in your horse, or it has “failed” a vetting because of a heart murmur, please feel free to contact us for advice.
Referrals and second opinions are always welcomed. If you would like a second opinion please call the office and talk to one of the vets. Before a second opinion can be given we will contact your veterinary surgeon (it is essential that we obtain your horse’s medical records first).