Besides a medical history, the next most important piece of information regarding your horse’s health is a physical examination. Just like humans, a normal physical examination takes a closer look at all of the major systems of the horse and can lead to an early diagnosis of diseases allowing for early intervention. Some areas of focus during a routine annual physical examination include the following:
- Cardiac
- Listening for arrhythmias, murmurs
- Respiratory, both upper and lower
- Gastrointestinal, including fecal evaluation for parasites
- Musculoskeletal
- Brief evaluation for obvious lameness
- Ophthalmic
- Dermatologic
- Dental/Oral
- Nutritional
These examinations not only allow for early intervention during disease but also for a custom approach to your horse’s healthcare, including vaccinations, deworming, and nutritional recommendations as the wellness examination is tailor-fit to each individual horse.
Based on this basic examination, your veterinarian may recommend tests to further diagnose problems. Technologies such as radiographs, ultrasound, MRI, endoscope, bloodwork, or ECG/echocardiography may be called upon to help gather information for diagnosis, prognosis, and treatment options.