Healthy Teeth, Happy Horses: A Dental Update
Dr. Metcalf is currently working through the dental exams for ALL our equines! While horses need their teeth floated once a year, donkeys are seen less frequently. This thorough process ensures our animals' health and comfort.
Shadow
What Does Floating Teeth Mean?
Floating teeth involves a detailed examination and adjustment process. Dr. Metcalf starts by assessing the head and jaw for symmetry and muscularity, performing TMJ palpations to check for pain.
Daisy
The animal is sedated to allow Dr. Metcalf to work safely and effectively. His goal is to balance the mouth, which varies for each animal. He inspects the incisors, grinds them down as needed, and adjusts their angle to restore balance and range of motion.
Why Dental Care is Crucial
Good dental care is the single most effective way to improve an equine’s quality of life. Proper dental health helps maintain overall health and comfort. Without it, horses may struggle to eat or experience pain, which can severely impact their well-being.
Foster
For instance, we’ve seen horses like Izzy suffer from starvation simply because their teeth weren’t floated, preventing them from properly digesting their food.
Lucy
Additional Treatments During the Exam
In addition to floating teeth for Lucy, Daisy, Benny, Foster, and Shadow, Dr. Metcalf performed other important treatments:
- Lucy: Had two teeth extracted to relieve pressure and discomfort.
- Shadow: Experienced some lameness in her back right hoof. Dr. Metcalf discovered a forming abscess and applied a wrap to address it.
- Benny: Noticed a swollen sheath. Dr. Metcalf found a mild fungal infection and treated it with a clean and ointment.
Benny
It might not be the most glamorous topic, but annual sheath cleaning is crucial to prevent irritation, discomfort, and infection. Dental exams are an ideal time for this maintenance.
Stay tuned for more updates and insights into the ongoing care and adventures of our equine friends!
