This message is from: [EMAIL PROTECTED] > So, we had a lameness expert check him out and give him a flex-test. > The diagnosis was arthritus in his left-rear hock.
I have seen this many times before. The arthritus could be a source of Patrick's lameness. You should have your vet deal with this problem. If the bute had no affect, then there are other methods to reduce the arthritus. There are injected and oral drugs for arthritus in horses. I think that the injections work better, but your vet knows better which one will work in your situation. Now, what caused the arthritus to form in a horse as young as Patrick? This is an important question. Does he have a conformation fault that pre-disposes him to arthritus in his hock, did he have a injury to his left hock, or was it caused by a nutritional problem? Once these questions are answered, then you can decide what Patrick needs to prevent the arthritus from returning or reduce the chance of it getting worst. Good luck! Curt Pierce Bristow, VA
