Horse care involving anaesthesia may pose risks

Thursday, 26 August 2010 17:46

Equines that have undergone horse care procedures involving anaesthesia can be a risk to both themselves and professionals helping them.

This is according to theHorse.com, which has published another except from Leslie Guttman's Equine ER book as part of their long-running series.

Veterinarians note in the piece that animals coming out of surgery can be so disorientated and confused, their flight instinct may kick in.

As such, they can thrash around in an attempt to get up or - if they have not been so strongly affected - try to bolt before fully waking.

"It could hurt itself, but because a horse can't rise without lifting its head, the recoverer on the neck can slow the process by holding down the head," the article continued.

To this end, owners may wish to speak to the physicians treating their ponies to speak about possible solutions, as well as checking their equine insurance cover to see what its policy is on injuries sustained during this time.

Posted by Louise