The Last Ride

Large Animal Removal and Disposal

Jul
22

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Equine Arthritis: Understanding the Basics

Category: The Last Ride AZ

Horse Removal and Burial by The Last Ride AZ

Arthritis is a condition that afflicts many horses, with the condition oftentimes leading to the need to euthanize. This, in turn, leads to the need for horse removal and burial services. As a horse owner, learning how to recognize the symptoms of arthritis is important to help slow down the condition and give your horse the longest and most pain-free life possible.

Equine Arthritis

Equine Arthritis

Symptoms of Equine Arthritis

Characterized by the wearing down of the joint surface, or cartilage, equine arthritis typically presents itself in the following ways:

  • Stiffness that the horse can typically warm out of
  • Joint swelling in one or more joints, with the most common being the fetlock, hock and carpus
  • Lameness

To diagnose arthritis and assesse its severity, your veterinarian will need to perform x-rays.

Causes of Equine Arthritis

Equine arthritis is typically caused by trauma to the joint, which may naturally develop after years of hard work. A wound or an infection can also lead to arthritis, including septic arthritis. Septic arthritis is caused by a bacterial infection and can often be difficult to treat.

If your horse’s arthritis has led to the need to euthanize, contact The Last Ride to meet your horse removal and burial needs. We will treat your pet with the utmost respect and care.