General Information
This condition, also known as “moon blindness,” is the main cause of blindness in horses. The uveal tract, consisting of the iris and adjacent structures, is the main blood supply of the eye. Toxic, immunologic and/or infections agents in the blood damage the blood vessels of the eye and then can indirectly affect most other parts of the eye. These agents can cause temporary damage but also can cause low-grade, slow destruction of the eye. Inflammation of the eye can be quite obvious or can be subtle, resulting in underlying damage without obvious signs. This initial blood vessel […]

This disease is very common in North Carolina and is often referred to as the “Possum Disease” or EPM.
What causes EPM?
It is caused the protozoal parasite Sarcocystis neurona. The protozoa is carried by infected opossums and transmitted in the feces and ingested by the horses. From there the parasite migrates from the intestines and into the brain or spinal chord.
What are the clinical signs?
Signs may vary based on the number of parasites and where in the central nervous system they are attacking. Direct damage and killing of nerves cells versus swelling and inflammation around them will determine if the […]

General Information
Dental care is an important part of horse management. Dental problems are best prevented by dental examination once or twice a year. The teeth of horses continually grow throughout the animal’s life. The teeth can be used to estimate a horse’s age; however, certain dental problems, such as malocclusion (upper and lower teeth do not meet), broken teeth and abnormal wear (as from cribbing), can make it difficult to estimate a horse’s age. In order to perform a thorough oral exam, your veterinarian will use a full mouth speculum.
To do a quick examination of horse’s teeth:
Lift the upper […]

General Information
A laceration is an accidental full-thickness cut through the skin. An abrasion is a scrape that damages the skin but does not penetrate the full thickness of the skin. To determine if a wound is an abrasion or a laceration, gently pull the wound edges apart. With a laceration, the underlying connective tissue can be seen.
Golden Rule:  All wounds should be sutured within 6 hours of occurrence!
In the event of a laceration, puncture wound, or injury open injury of any kind, please contact your veterinarian immediately.  The veterinarian will need to examine the injury and determine if the […]

General Information
Castration involves surgical removal of the testicles. This surgery is usually performed one of two ways: standing under local, with sedation or under general anesthesia with the animal on its side (lateral recumbancy). The choice of how the procedure is performed is usually made based on the horse’s temperament, owner preference, veterinarian preference, or facility/location limitations. Regardless of the position of the horse, the procedure is basically the same with a few minor technique differences from surgeon to surgeon. The scrotum will be incised (cut open) over each testicle, or the botton of the scrotum can be removed […]