BY LYNSEY MADISON, JUNIOR JOURNALIST
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| Harold Putnam, D.V.M., is the 2007 Ford Youth World veterinarian. |
What is the leading cause of illness in horses at horse shows?
According to Harold Putnam, D.V.M., this year’s show veterinarian for the 2007 Ford AQHYA World Championship Show, the leading cause is stress.
Most horses showing this week have traveled 600 miles or more to get to Fort Worth, Texas, and many people drive straight through to get here without any long stops. This can take a large toll on the horse physically because muscles are fatigued during the trip. Another cause of stress is that horses usually do not have free choice to water during the trip.
Putnam reminds exhibitors to “consider the horse when you drive.” He suggested taking a ride in the back of a horse trailer to feel what it is like for your horse.
Putnam emphasized that your trailer's wheels should be well-balanced. A wheel that is not balanced will create unnecessary vibration on the trailer floor. This vibration will encourage extra blood flow through the horses hoof. If this increased blood flow is continued for hours on end the horse can begin to founder. Founder occurs when the hoof swells and it puts unnecessary pressure on the coffin bone causing it to rotate.
To absorb some of the vibration, Putnam suggests putting a layer of closed cell foam (meaning it will not absorb water) underneath the rubber mats in your trailer.
Another great way to help your horse make the long trip is to stop every once and a while for 30 minutes or so just so that the horse can relax. However, it is not suggested that you unload your horse along the highway incase he becomes spooked and the handler loses control of the horse.
It is also important to offer your horse water regularly along the trip. Putnam suggests giving the horse both electrolyte and plain water. The electrolyte water will help the horse’s immune system stay up-to-par during the trip. It is also a good idea to still offer electrolyte water once you reach the show as well. If your horse refuses to drink elecrolyte water, oral forms of electrolytes are also available.
Horses traveling long distances require extra care, but in the end it is certainly worth the effort.
