Posted by Eve on November 07, 2003 at 13:26:10:
This is a new horse as of two weeks ago. He is currently on layup due to a mild bowed tendon, but about a year ago, he foundered badly--suspect as a reaction to a steroid injection for a respiratory problem. When he arrived, with all four legs bandaged for support during a six-hour ride, he was very upset for about a week. He has since become sane and seems to be happy and relaxed. I could feel no heat or swelling, so stopped wrapping. HOWEVER, he's now presenting a reluctance to step out from a standstill, and walks toe first on his right front. My farrier used hoof testers and found sensitivity in the navicular area. The horse has no history of navicular problems. The first dose of 1.5 grams bute gave him back a normal gate, but it's not enough today. I hope it's a bruise or an abscess instead of a recurrance of the founder. I don't know whether founder ever causes a heel sensitivity. I intend to soak the foot--hoping that it will at least feel good.
This horse has been barefoot for about 2 months. He's 16 yrs. old and trained to upper level dressage.
BTW, Anybody know where I can buy Venus turpentine? Do feed stores carry it?