RE: Vet Manners Happy Ending
This message is from: Linda Lottie horselo...@hotmail.com Great and good job for taking charge of the situation. Maybe he will share his positive experience with his partner (s). Linda in WI Date: Wed, 17 Jun 2009 15:40:33 -0500 To: fjordhorse@angus.mystery.com From: trap...@alexssa.net Subject: Vet Manners Happy Ending This message is from: Big Horn Forge Daniel Nauman trap...@alexssa.net Dear List, Last Monday my Vet was scheduled to return and give my horses the balance of their shots. I was unable to speak directly with my Vet when making the appointment, but left a message that I had been working with my horse and may need extra time with her, and would be willing to pay a double barn fee if things went long. Monday morning came and I was pretty nervous. Anyway, the Vet that showed up was her husband. (The other partner in the clinic.) He usually only does small animals, but there he was! No handler. No stud chain. I instantly relaxed. I told him what I had been doing with my horse to make things easier and safer for everyone and said, I beg you to work with me on this. His response was positive and I gave him a crash course in clicker training and in advance and retreat methods.Everything went swimmingly. My Vet seemed to have a easy time with it, my horse let out a big sigh and was wonderful, and I was on cloud nine. We worked on a loose lead, in an open paddock, and allowed the horse to move when he needed to. Both horses were standing calmly and quietly when they got their shots, and the Vet was done and gone in about 20 minutes. I was on top of the world the rest of the day. When my Vet was leaving I was thanking him (for the umteenth time! ) for taking time with me and my horse, and hoped that we could build on the positive experience for next year. Thanks to everyone who posted privately and on the list with encouragement and help. Toni, with Erick , who thinks the Vet with the food is the way to go. Important FjordHorse List Links: Subscription Management: http://tinyurl.com/5msa7e FH-L Archives: http://tinyurl.com/rcepw Classified Ads: http://tinyurl.com/5b5g2f Important FjordHorse List Links: Subscription Management: http://tinyurl.com/5msa7e FH-L Archives: http://tinyurl.com/rcepw Classified Ads: http://tinyurl.com/5b5g2f
Vet Manners Happy Ending
This message is from: Big Horn Forge Daniel Nauman trap...@alexssa.net Dear List, Last Monday my Vet was scheduled to return and give my horses the balance of their shots. I was unable to speak directly with my Vet when making the appointment, but left a message that I had been working with my horse and may need extra time with her, and would be willing to pay a double barn fee if things went long. Monday morning came and I was pretty nervous. Anyway, the Vet that showed up was her husband. (The other partner in the clinic.) He usually only does small animals, but there he was! No handler. No stud chain. I instantly relaxed. I told him what I had been doing with my horse to make things easier and safer for everyone and said, I beg you to work with me on this. His response was positive and I gave him a crash course in clicker training and in advance and retreat methods. Everything went swimmingly. My Vet seemed to have a easy time with it, my horse let out a big sigh and was wonderful, and I was on cloud nine. We worked on a loose lead, in an open paddock, and allowed the horse to move when he needed to. Both horses were standing calmly and quietly when they got their shots, and the Vet was done and gone in about 20 minutes. I was on top of the world the rest of the day. When my Vet was leaving I was thanking him (for the umteenth time! ) for taking time with me and my horse, and hoped that we could build on the positive experience for next year. Thanks to everyone who posted privately and on the list with encouragement and help. Toni, with Erick , who thinks the Vet with the food is the way to go. Important FjordHorse List Links: Subscription Management: http://tinyurl.com/5msa7e FH-L Archives: http://tinyurl.com/rcepw Classified Ads: http://tinyurl.com/5b5g2f
Vet manners
This message is from: lewa...@aol.com Hi, I have read so many suggestions about the situation, but nobody had mention another very simple approach: Don't try to tie the horse or make it otherwise stand still. A horse that doesn't want to stand still will not be standing still by force of one person when there is fear envolved. If your vet is a savy person he/she would lead the horse in very small circles and give the shot while the horse is moving. It will keep the horse somewhat off balance because the neck is bend towards the person leading it and it is therefore next to impossible for the horse to hurt the person or bolt away. You would also avoid the build up of the tension because the horse is still moving which is part of the relaxing part of the deal. It has so far worked for me if somebodyreally doesn't like needles. Good luck Heike Lewandowski Important FjordHorse List Links: Subscription Management: http://tinyurl.com/5msa7e FH-L Archives: http://tinyurl.com/rcepw Classified Ads: http://tinyurl.com/5b5g2f
Vet manners
This message is from: lewa...@aol.com Hi, I have read so many suggestions about the situation, but nobody had mention another very simple approach: Don't try to tie the horse or make it otherwise stand still. A horse that doesn't want to stand still will not be standing still by force of one person when there is fear envolved. If your vet is a savy person he/she would lead the horse in very small circles and give the shot while the horse is moving. It will keep the horse somewhat off balance because the neck is bend towards the person leading it and it is therefore next to impossible for the horse to hurt the person or bolt away. You would also avoid the build up of the tension because the horse is still moving which is part of the relaxing part of the deal. It has so far worked for me if somebodyreally doesn't like needles. Good luck Heike Lewandowski Important FjordHorse List Links: Subscription Management: http://tinyurl.com/5msa7e FH-L Archives: http://tinyurl.com/rcepw Classified Ads: http://tinyurl.com/5b5g2f
Vet Manners, Shots, etc.
This message is from: Heather Baskey cavy_l...@yahoo.com I just received my Parelli e-Newsletter - and lo behold, a question about needles/shots came up ... sharing with the group - as it was a busy topic as of late.  Heather  QUESTION Okay, I am at a total loss with my 3-year-old mare who recently tried to kill our (relatively savvy) vet and a trainer when they tried to inject her with tranquilizer. I was not there - maybe that was a mistake - but she apparently struck the trainer and caused both to think she was unmanageable vis-à -vis shots. Her first shots were given by a vet who used an ear twitch; I put a stop to this the second time and she has gotten over any ear problems long ago , but the needles are still a battleground. I did the toothpick desensitization, pinch-poke game, lots of praise, carrot bite at the time of injection, treats...but she knows the difference and if it's a needle, she freaks. Last time (out of desperation; she couldn't go to trainers without vaccines) a nose twitch seemed to work fine, and she is still okay with me playing with her nose afterwards, so I guess it wasn't too traumatic. But I don't like relying on that. I really want to get her over this. Any ideas? She has done really well with all the groundwork, except this. âClaire ANSWER This is a very serious situation especially as she's been through so much trauma. I would be doing a lot of Friendly Game, plus developing the overall relationship of trust and respect via the Seven Games and Patterns. When it comes to the simulations, you need to make sure the mare is truly relaxed and not at all tense. Treats are not going to help here â they are for incentive once a horse is bored with repetition. In this case you are dealing with intense fear. And it's not about the needle as much as it is the whole trust thing. I would be doing more needle simulations and then actually using a needle (without the injection part). You want her to become so relaxed, so trusting, that even a little pin prick cannot upset her. She knows without a doubt that you wouldn't hurt or kill her - which is really how prey animals think about predators! What Level would you say the mare is? I'm concerned that when you talk of her going to the trainers that something happens to her overall trust of people. Is your trainer using natural approaches and putting the relationship first? If she is not treated this way by every human it is to be expected that she will always have trouble when it comes to anything potentially threatening a human might ask of her, such as taking a needle. When we got Casper (Pat's gorgeous black stallion) he was lethal about things like needles and pastes - we were aptly warned! But it didn't take long before you could do almost anything 'to' him and he would trust that it was all going to be okay. Now Pat is a master, so a couple of months is all it took him and that means it will probably take people like you and me a lot longer than that - many months of dedication to building infallible trust and respect. Canada Toolbar: Search from anywhere on the web, and bookmark your favourite sites. Download it now http://ca.toolbar.yahoo.com. Important FjordHorse List Links: Subscription Management: http://tinyurl.com/5msa7e FH-L Archives: http://tinyurl.com/rcepw Classified Ads: http://tinyurl.com/5b5g2f
Vet Manners Thank You
This message is from: Big Horn Forge Daniel Nauman trap...@alexssa.net A big thank you to everyone who responded to my post. I've had time to think, read, and respond. I cannot give my own shots. I used to but, somewhere along the line, I whimped out. I just can't. I even have a hard time stepping on a bug! I do believe giving my own shots was the best suggestion, but yours truly doesn't have the heart for it anymore. Words that echoed my own thoughts were... matter of time before being attacked, (The ONLY reason my horse stood was because he decided to. If the handler thought she was keeping him from going anywhere, she was deluded) . fight or flight train wreck etc, etc. Erick has never tried to kick or bite, but he sure has tried to run away. I would hate to see the aftermath of that if he got his own way. I started clicker training in the last month or so, and Erick loves it. (So does my mustang) Monday, I took Erick to the round pen and started clicker training him to sharp objects on his butt. I used my thumb nail to start. Every time I jabbed him, and he stood, I clicked and treated. (He stood EVERY time.) I went to a ball point pen thinking he needed something that looked like a syringe type item. It didn't bother him at all. I decided that he trusted me too much. My next move is to use a horse savvy neighbor down the road that he doesn't know very well. Maybe a combination of fake syringe and stranger will help. I'm not hoping to get a bad reaction out of him, but I would like to make sure it isn't the needle causing the panic. Thank you to the person who suggested clicker training. It was way in the back of my mind. I'm glad you mentioned it. I am dreading the talk with the Vet. When I set up the appointment for the booster shots, I am going to discuss approach, safety, the horse's fear, etc. I will also let her know that she needs to take way more time with the horse, and I will pay a double barn call fee if need be. If she is trying to fit too many appointments into a day, and will not take the time, I will have to find another Vet. (Actually, I'm already looking in case it comes to that.) Thank you again for your help and advice. (My horse thanks you too.) Toni Important FjordHorse List Links: Subscription Management: http://tinyurl.com/5msa7e FH-L Archives: http://tinyurl.com/rcepw Classified Ads: http://tinyurl.com/5b5g2f
Re: Vet Manners Thank You
This message is from: Robin Churchill rbc...@yahoo.com You shouldn't dread it. She works for you, not vice versa and if she doesn't realize that, get somebody else. You are not asking her to put herself in harm's way, only to work with you. It sounds like it is her handler that is causing the problem, but she is perpetuating it by allowing the behavior. Robin in SW Florida where it is finally raining after about 3 or 4 months with no rain. --- I am dreading the talk with the Vet. Important FjordHorse List Links: Subscription Management: http://tinyurl.com/5msa7e FH-L Archives: http://tinyurl.com/rcepw Classified Ads: http://tinyurl.com/5b5g2f
RE: Vet Manners Thank You
This message is from: plumg...@pon.net plumg...@pon.net With clicker trainingalways break things down into teensy, teensy steps ...and endeavor NEVER to get a flinch or scared look as you up the anty each time. Take it really slow. Usually, things go fast with clicker training anyway, so it probably is not going to be a problem...but just in case...be really careful to go slow. Also, know that having the now-feared vet do it may be harder than your stranger neighbor. If you need to, it might pay to show the vet that the neighbor can do it now..by using the clicker. Sounds like you are on the right track. The clicker is ideal for these situations. Gail Important FjordHorse List Links: Subscription Management: http://tinyurl.com/5msa7e FH-L Archives: http://tinyurl.com/rcepw Classified Ads: http://tinyurl.com/5b5g2f
Proper Vet Manners
This message is from: Ann Longfellow annlongfel...@comcast.net My Bjorn was terrified of shots. I thought that he acquired his fear of vets before I purchased him. It turns out he had an iris cyst on his left eye that severely limited his sight. He had laser surgery to remove the cyst a year ago. He stands for the shots now. He also used to bolt and I never knew what might provoke it. After 8 years of runaways I am trail riding with more confidence and often a loose rein. He still is sensitive but will just startle, speed up for a few steps, and then settle down. Ann Important FjordHorse List Links: Subscription Management: http://tinyurl.com/5msa7e FH-L Archives: http://tinyurl.com/rcepw Classified Ads: http://tinyurl.com/5b5g2f
Vet Manners-sorry it's loonngg!!
This message is from: Shiloh Simino sssim...@earthlink.net Hello Toni, Just my opinion . . . Your guy doesn't sound like he's misbehaving all that badly. He sounds like he's scared, and it could be that he feels threatened (more likely), or it could be the shots. Some are shy and having the vet out isn't exactly pleasant (usually) and then being manhandled by another stranger just compounds the problem. It sounds like it will get worse if not made more 'pleasant' though. What you describe is like beating a horse for spooking! The horse's opinion has been reinforced, this person should be feared!! I work for an equine vet as her 'tech'. I have seen and handled horses with all sorts of temperments and reactions to shots, etc. My own large fjord is definitely needle phobic!! He HATES shots! The big baby runs us over, shakes his head, mashes you against the wall . . .and he has gotten BETTER (I don't think he will ever be good) with the same vet, because she is willing to work with him and me. And he didn't start out this way . . . he got shots one year at a training barn with a different vet (I wasn't there) and the next year, voila, pushy pig! Thank goodness it's only once or twice a year for the needles! The vet herself can be a bit 'brusque' at times; when in a rush, the well meaning owner, etc., lets face it they really do work for that money sometimes! However, she has to be at the end of her rope before acting like the vet you described. I believe it could be called 'bedside manners.' She will at least TRY to give them a chance, but she's not going to take a chance. And I have to say there are owners out there that do 'compound' the problem, but you don't sound like one of these! And there are ways to deal with them too, and it's not the way you've described! LOL I would definitely try to talk to the vet. You have a long standing relationship of 18 years! Most vets I know don't enjoy losing clients! Especially ones with multiple animals! If this hasn't been a problem in the past, what is the change?? The handler? Other personal crisis? Vets are HUMAN, they make mistakes, they have other problems . . . but it should NEVER be taken out on you and your animals, and if she's not willing to listen to your concerns then maybe it is a good idea/time to move on to a new vet. It would take quite a bit for the vet I work for to treat one of her CLIENTS (it is a business relationship!) this way. She usually tries to say hello, and make friends before doing the 'bad stuff' to them. Especially new clients, I've never seen her just go in and have at them. A horse that she knows to have issues, she will try to use distraction -WHOLE carrots work great, much better than grain IMO, as you can tease them a bit with them-the key is the distraction-and they are long enough to keep your fingers safe! You can also use a carrot while blood is drawn for a Coggins (which she always does first, before they are ticked off, because it's harder than vaccinating), versus the head buried in a bucket of grain, makes finding the vein difficult. She will have me or the owner give them right as they get the shot, some of her most reactive horses don't even notice through four shots-I've seen it work, but it's not a cure all, as some are pretty quick to catch on too. But it seems to work on a lot of horses in her practice. My guy has gotten much better with this method, but he certainly tries to inhale the carrot! LOL She will handle the 'difficult personalities' differently too. I've seen her take horses outside the barn and have them circle very close to her (like lunging on a lead rope) while giving vaccinations, all by herself, because they will FIGHT if they feel cornered or confined, and some feel like they are 'getting away' while moving. Some are better with the butt in a corner, but it's usually the ones that try to kick, or that fly backward that she does this with. I've seen her give her shots in the rump versus the neck (where she usually gives them) because the horse tolerates it better. She will do shots as quick as possible or bide her time. She will wait to do them if they HAVE to be sedated for other procedures-easier for her and the horse. Some, like mine, maybe yours too, she HAS to do in a stall, otherwise they just 'leave' and not much would stop them! LOL! Above all this-YOU KNOW YOUR HORSE!! She would never have me hold a horse that an owner could handle better! Maybe if the owner failed to keep the horse under 'control' but then it would be for YOUR OWN and HER safety. She just worked on one that wouldn't let either of us near it at first (very fearful rescued horse) until she 'made friends' and it didn't even care about the shots, just the strange humans. I didn't even get into the mix-just too many new people for this horse. Yes, it takes a bit more time, but a 'fight' takes more! So it all DEPENDS ON THE HORSE!! If your horse is better for you than the handler then it kinda of negates
RE: Proper Vet Manners
This message is from: melissa ridebaber...@att.net I have had this happen with a farrier and daughters quarter horse who always stood fine if someone held... new boarding facility new farrier, they ruined him he pulled back and we were told dangerous horse... did not come on appointment date or call came 5 days late horse can not go beyond 6 weeks finally came and went to main barn and appointment was for 10am and he was not done until 3pm farrier did not even file after shoes... three weeks later and bigger bucks barefoot farrier came in pulled shoes gave a little ace for two trimmings got out toe cracks due to roll not being done well enough as we had requested now he stand fine as long as it in not under tree where blow up happened... original farrier 3 guys one closing of nostrils one pinching neck without release and tied over head now he had been tied over head for years but not for farrier and no farrier had had forge going in front of his nose straightening tools for 20 minutes either. If you do not like the treatment do not put up with it change or you could end up like we did with an almost train wreck Another note we do not use the vet the main barn uses due to her missing diagnosis of strangles twice not coming for allergic reaction and not available for emergency colic...also diagnosis a fever prior to vaccination on a 102 degree day with high humidity and horse in stall until 1pm when appointment was for 9am but she went to the full care barn instead. Pattern with those who do main barn for uswill always use our own and check them out Have found barefoot trimmer and another farrier that is great and have found 4 vets we definitely prefer and they are al cheaper and pass on multiply horse rates. Melissa in TX Important FjordHorse List Links: Subscription Management: http://tinyurl.com/5msa7e FH-L Archives: http://tinyurl.com/rcepw Classified Ads: http://tinyurl.com/5b5g2f
RE: Proper Vet Manners...
This message is from: Shawna K-B. quycksy...@hotmail.com I won't mention what I think that behavior is, because I'm pretty sure that our list owner would block me for language. You are supposed to trust you Vet. Your vet has to work on trusting you and not punishing your horses because of something someone else did. You and your animals deserve a vet that works with you. Anyone who actually pays attention to horse should know that a one-size-fits-all approach to horses is not going to work. Try calling you vet and asking for her to call you at a time that is reasonable for her to talk to you for a while. This treatment of your horses is unacceptable. What's more, her reason for treating all horses this way is going to backfire. These are thousand + pound animals with minds of there own. There is nothing on this Earth that a human is going to do to hold a horse that does not want to be held. I've heard stories from the older farm folks around here that include horses busting through stall and trailer walls, climbing 10' stall walls, and blowing through just about any line or fence made when frightened enough. That doesn't count the nastier stories I've heard of the ones that try fight instead of flight. Your Vet's handler is setting her up to be attacked. It's just a matter of time and the right horse. Try expressing your concern for her well being and where you see thing is going for her in the long run. Also try suggesting a different handler. If she won't listen, I would strongly suggesting going on the great Vet hunt, before you need to sedate your horse for his annual shots. As an aside that is funny in an ironic way, I can see an escalation here as her handler's methods upset more horses... One handler going to two handlers, then horses needing to be sedated for their shots so they'll be quiet, then, well... Pictures of a trank gun are trailing into my mind. I'd say in short, but I already blew that. The problem isn't your horse. It's you're vet's mindset. Best of luck, Shawna Yesterday, the Vet and handler immediately put a chain over my horse's nose, pushed him up against the back wall of his stall, and went right for his rump. Â I thought my horse's eyes were going to jump out of his head. Â (I had visions of a B movie drug bust.) Â BIG protest on my part. Â I was told that the handler was there to keep my Vet safe and was just doing her job. Important FjordHorse List Links: Subscription Management: http://tinyurl.com/5msa7e FH-L Archives: http://tinyurl.com/rcepw Classified Ads: http://tinyurl.com/5b5g2f
Re: Proper Vet Manners...
This message is from: katesei...@aol.com While I agree with the get a new vet concept, I have been in a situation before where that was not an option, unless you wanted to do all of your veterinary care yourself! That may actually be an option when it comes to shots. As long as they are intramuscular, it's not too hard, but I would not tackle the ones that need to go in a vein. Most vaccinations, I think, are into the muscle so you actually might be able to do this. The other option is to try and desensitize your horse to shots - in case the association is the shot and not the vet. Or to pay your vet for some calls which are spent only having good times (grooming, snacking, gentle positive work) with the horse to realign that connection between vet/handler and bad times. Kate with Joe, Della and Hana (who usually stand untied for whatever the vet wants to do) **An Excellent Credit Score is 750. See Yours in Just 2 Easy Steps! (http://pr.atwola.com/promoclk/100126575x1222377005x1201454319/aol?redir=http://www.freecreditreport.com/pm/default.aspx?sc=668072hmpgID=62bcd=May Excfooter51609NO62) Important FjordHorse List Links: Subscription Management: http://tinyurl.com/5msa7e FH-L Archives: http://tinyurl.com/rcepw Classified Ads: http://tinyurl.com/5b5g2f
Proper Vet Manners (a little long, but I need your help)
This message is from: Big Horn Forge Daniel Nauman trap...@alexssa.net I need your help ! Yesterday, my Vet came out to give the horses and dogs their spring shots. The last few years she has had a handler with her on all her calls. I realize, from my Vet's point of view, that the handler is there to help keep her safe; and that most owners, while meaning well, can be a big hinderance. If I were a Vet, I would be on Red Alert at all times when it came to safety. So, with that said, I need your advice. My 9yo Fjord started acting up about two years ago for his shots. I believe it was the first time the handler held my horse. I asked the Vet if I could hold him for her and she basically said no, she now had a handler for that. (I know she has been injured because of well meaning owners.) The handler is rather pushy (my opinion). I became a passive observer, and more than a little irritated at how my horse was handled. I suggested that the handler (a woman also) not hold his head so tight. The horse was afraid, and I could tell, was ready to get out of Dodge. He tolerated the handling and stood very stiff. Any suggestions I had fell on deaf ears. Last year the handler remembered that my horse was hard to hold and put a chain over his nose. Things got worse. My fjord pushed past both of them and ran out into the pasture. When he saw me, he ran up to me. I collected him and returned him to the barn alley. My Vet and handler decided to give the shots in his stall, and had to use quite a bit of pressure. I protested once more and got a look that said don't to go there. Yesterday, the Vet and handler immediately put a chain over my horse's nose, pushed him up against the back wall of his stall, and went right for his rump. I thought my horse's eyes were going to jump out of his head. (I had visions of a B movie drug bust.) BIG protest on my part. I was told that the handler was there to keep my Vet safe and was just doing her job. I went into the stall, picked up on the lead rope, asked my horse for his shoulder over, and reluctantly and fearfully got it. It lasted little longer than 2 seconds. I was hoping to build on that, but that would take time, and time is what my Vet evidently didn't have. The coggins test was last. My horse stood like a gentleman, very relaxed, head lowered. He didn't seem to mind at all. The Vet was really surprised, and mentioned the behavior. After the whole ordeal, while my Vet was packing up, I asked her if their was anything I could do to help with this situation. I explained that I wanted my horse to stand on a loose lead while getting his shots. (Like in the past) My Vet said try feeding grain while he is getting vaccinated. My heart sank. I truly believe that the shots are not the issue. The handling is so rough and scares my horse so much, that pretty soon, no one will be able to get near him with a needle. I have used this Vet for 18 years, and have not had these problems in the past. Switching Vets is not really an option because of where I live. I really want to retain this Vet, and mend any problems. If anyone has any experience or advice for me on what I can do from a training point of view, or a Vet's point of view, I would love to hear it. I have decided to work with the horse and talk to my Vet about working with me when she comes to give the boosters. I'm hoping we can cooperate with each other for everyone's benefit. If my needs are ignored, I will have to find a different Vet. But, there aren't many available, and I don't want to go from one problem to another. I won't even get into talking about the other horse or the dogs. Thanks for any help you may be able to give, Toni (and Erick, her Fjord, who thinks the Vet is out to kill him) :( Important FjordHorse List Links: Subscription Management: http://tinyurl.com/5msa7e FH-L Archives: http://tinyurl.com/rcepw Classified Ads: http://tinyurl.com/5b5g2f
Re: Proper Vet Manners
This message is from: Emily Wigley ewig...@mindspring.com On May 15, 2009, at 1:29 PM, fjordhorse-digest wrote: If anyone has any experience or advice for me on what I can do from a training point of view, or a Vet's point of view, I would love to hear it.  I have decided to work with the horse and talk to my Vet about working with me when she comes to give the boosters.  I'm hoping we can cooperate with each other for everyone's benefit.  If my needs are ignored, I will have to find a different Vet.  But, there aren't many available, and I don't want to go from one problem to another. I would get another vet. If I don't like the way my horse is being handled and I feel that I can do a better job to keep everyone safe (and happy), then I either step in or end it right there. Now having said that, I'm a professional, and while I am not a vet and don't play one on tv ;-) I do know how to handle most, and certainly my horses. I especially am concerned for the above situation because the horse is obviously in fear of the rough handling. Go elsewhere, and explain to the next vet what you've experienced. You don't have to name names (although s/he will probably know who you had trouble with), just explain what you didn't like and why, and ask if you can please handle the horse for the vet. Frustrating, to say the least. Sort of like, but different, when my vet arrived last year to vaccinate a dozen horses on the farm and didn't have all the vaccines he needed... even though he knew how many and what we were scheduled to do... at least he didn't charge me for the next trip out, but it was really annoying to get them all ready and then only do half, and then do it again ten days later! Best of luck, Emily P.S. The manners in your subject line are your vet's, not your horse's, who obviously has good sense and good manners when handled politely! Emily Wigley Fish Bowl Farm Vashon Island, Washington (206) 463-5473 http://www.fishbowlfarm.com http://biscuitsfarmblog.blogspot.com/ ewig...@mindspring.com Important FjordHorse List Links: Subscription Management: http://tinyurl.com/5msa7e FH-L Archives: http://tinyurl.com/rcepw Classified Ads: http://tinyurl.com/5b5g2f
Re: Proper Vet Manners (a little long, but I need your help)
This message is from: Martie Bolinski boli...@dol.net We have experienced similar problems with our Fjord and our new vet. She does not have a handler, but is quite brusque and rather heavy handed compared to our old, slow but sure vet. Kilar was upset when he saw the shots. He was obviously tense and tried to move away. The old vet would have waited a few seconds, talked to him and snuck up on him while cupping his one hand behind the eye so he couldn't see the shot coming. Always worked. Eventually, when she couldn't get him to stand, I put my own hand behind his eye, cupped a little bit and the shots went smoothly. He is a big sissy about his shots, but doesn't mean to cause trouble - he IS however, very very strong once he decides there will be 'pain'. As for the Coggins - don't even want to go there. He got stuck 6 times before she was able to draw blood (had to shave his furry neck) and he was very jumpy. He used to be so good for the old vet. I'm afraid that every future visit from this gal will be a fight now. Like you, switching vets is not an option. She is the only vet who is accepting new clients in our area. Martie in MD I truly believe that the shots are not the issue. The handling is so rough and scares my horse so much, that pretty soon, no one will be able to get near him with a needle. I have used this Vet for 18 years, and have not had these problems in the past. Switching Vets is not really an option because of where I live. I really want to retain this Vet, and mend any problems. Important FjordHorse List Links: Subscription Management: http://tinyurl.com/5msa7e FH-L Archives: http://tinyurl.com/rcepw Classified Ads: http://tinyurl.com/5b5g2f
Re: Proper Vet Manners (a little long, but I need your help)
This message is from: jgayle jga...@techline.com Whew, it is the Vet and she is hard headed, and feels strength and pain only, control. Can you give the shots or is that against the law, while she is there? Jean Gayle who has given many shots!!! Important FjordHorse List Links: Subscription Management: http://tinyurl.com/5msa7e FH-L Archives: http://tinyurl.com/rcepw Classified Ads: http://tinyurl.com/5b5g2f
RE: Proper Vet Manners
This message is from: Willows Edge Farm i...@willowsedgefarm.com From: Big Horn Forge Daniel Nauman trap...@alexssa.net Subject: Proper Vet Manners (a little long, but I need your help) I need your help ! Toni, You need a NEW vet. Sorry, this is the most frustrating vet story I've heard in a while. I understand the assistants are there for helping the vet, but most vets don't use them at all. Better yet, learn how to give your own shots - have a helpful friend or 4-Her come and help show you and do them yourself - it is E-A-S-Y! You'll $ave money and your horse trusts you already. YOU are the one paying the bills - YOU decide what happens to you and your horses. If you had a rude, rough nurse, would you tolerate it? Nah ...well, neither is your horse. A fun side story to vets and shots... Last year I had the vet out to float some teeth and while he was here I had him give the West Nile vaccines (I didn't buy those...long story), and the first horse I went to put a rope around her neck as I knew the response since I do our vaccines. No, no, no. Put that halter on! was his response. Fine, I put the halter on, he gives the shot, the horse doesn't do ANYTHING. He was shocked - do you know how weird that is to have a vet speechless? Second horse, I put the halter on and same response. Now my vet is thinking there must be something different about these guys. Third horse, I got to put the rope around the neck, again, same response. So the 4th horse in the paddock (did I mention, they were all standing in the same paddock together loose?), he walks up and pokes her in the neck. OK, she flinched and stepped back, but she had no idea it was coming either. He left saying that this was his new favorite farm. He has a new appreciation for our wonderful Fjordies. Corinne Logan Willows Edge Farm Bothell, WA (425) 402-6781 www.willowsedgefarm.com __ Information from ESET NOD32 Antivirus, version of virus signature database 4080 (20090515) __ The message was checked by ESET NOD32 Antivirus. http://www.eset.com Important FjordHorse List Links: Subscription Management: http://tinyurl.com/5msa7e FH-L Archives: http://tinyurl.com/rcepw Classified Ads: http://tinyurl.com/5b5g2f
