Horses, Horses & Horses

[Hev]

Have just purchased another new horse (makes 4) and am having a few worries about her - she has been diagnosed with having a locking stifle (she is three years old). I am aware this is something that happens quite a lot with young horses. We are having her broken right now and she is having no problems with the condition. My question is - how long does it normally take for them to "grow out" of this condition - is there anything I can give her feedwise to help? I have been told there is a minor operation she can have to correct it - how minor is the op - what can I expect just after she has had it etc. etc. She is a beautiful Part Bred Welsh Mare - paint colour - blue skewbald and the lady who is breaking her says she is fabulous.

 

[Lava Linda]

I just asked my coworker, who had all kinds of horse experience. She said the operation is quite minor, suggests you go ahead with it, and says they don't grow out of it as far as she knows. Sometimes the operation needs to be done twice, but again, she said it's so minor there's no reason not to do it.
They make about a half inch long incision below the knee, and snip a ligament.
She's not a vet, but those are her thoughts, and I think highly of her "paraveterinary" skills. She's bailed out many a friend in her day, helping with abcessed hoofs, etc. Good luck, your little mare sounds gorgeous!!!!!!!!!!!

 

[Ona]

I would go along with the operation. I would also look in to herbal ligiment top dressings. Such as cosiquin. have fun wiht your new mare. I love ponies. They are sooo much fun.