Ask the Vet

Joint Deterioration in the Older Horse

“I have a 19 year old thoroughbred gelding. He is 17.3 and has just been diagnosed with arthritis and fairly severe joint deterioration. I have had a hard time finding information on the best way to treat him. I would like to keep riding him if that’s possible. I do dressage with him. How would you suggest treating him? I want to keep him out of pain as much as possible. I also am on a fairly tight budget which makes treatment even harder.” – HG

May 15, 2012 Ask the Vet, Diseases and Conditions, Lameness 17 Comments

From AAEP’s Ask the Vet: Feeding the Race Horse

In your opinion, what is the best feed combination for a race horse in racing season and during rest period? Should it be different due to the different energy demands? Is there need for supplementation? Thank you! – Edward

May 8, 2012 Ask the Vet, Nutrition 2 Comments

The Top 10 Things Your Vet Wants You to Know

We asked our staff veterinarian, Dr. Lydia Gray, for a list of the top ten things your vet wants you to know, but doesn’t always have time to tell you.

May 7, 2012 Basic Health Care 9 Comments

From AAEP’s Ask the Vet: Feeding Two Year Olds

I recently purchased an almost two year old Thoroughbred gelding that had 60 days training to race at 18 months before his owners decided he wasn’t fast enough. He is growing quickly and I am in no hurry to start riding him again as I feel he needs time to develop physically. Nutritionally, what should his diet consist of for optimum growth and health? – Ashley

May 1, 2012 Ask the Vet, Nutrition 2 Comments

Flaky Hoof Syndrome

Hello! I have 2 young donkeys, a Jack and Jenny. They both have hoof problems and my farrier doesn’t know what to do. Their hooves are very soft, and they just seem to be flaking off from the outside from the bottom up about 1″. I am pretty worried. Are there some supplements that would help them with this problem? There is not a lot of info out there on Donkeys and how to feed them correctly. Any help would be appreciated. -Thanks, SK, Texas

April 24, 2012 Ask the Vet, Skin, Coat & Hooves 1 Comment

Canine Oral Health: Kiss that Bad Breath Goodbye

My dog’s breath is really bad, is there anything I can do to help? My vet suggested I schedule a dental, even though his teeth aren’t that bad, but I’m nervous to sedate him for such a quick procedure. LC, Massachusetts

April 17, 2012 Ask the Vet, Canine 1 Comment

Horses and Equine Protozoal Myeloencephalitis (EPM)

Dr. Gray, if a horse is treated for a mild case of EPM, and the treatment is “successful”, can the horse make a full recovery or will it always be in their systems to where a possible recurrence could happen in the future. Thank you M.L.S.

April 10, 2012 Ask the Vet, Diseases and Conditions 7 Comments

Smarter Equine Joint Care Strategies Webinar

Enjoy our free Webinar: Smarter Strategies for Equine Joint Care, hosted by Dr. Lydia Gray, SmartPak’s Medical Director/Staff Veterinarian and Jessica Normand, Director of Supplement Marketing. Learn why bad things happen to good joints and what you can do to help your horse.

April 6, 2012 Webinar, Webinar 0 Comments

From AAEP’s Ask the Vet: The Skinny on Grain

Hello, we own a 5 year old thoroughbred and he is not picky about what he eats. His weight is good and is in good condition. We feed him regular old grain and hay. We also have him on Platinum Performance. I have read many articles about grain, and it’s not good for horses. What should I look for when picking out what is good grain? (I need a simple way to check what to look for in grain)…

April 3, 2012 Ask the Vet, Nutrition 4 Comments

Understanding Equine Metabolic Syndrome Webinar

Are you struggling to help your “chubby” horse slim down? Do terms like “IR” and “EMS” have you feeling confused? We can help! Our equine health experts, Dr. Gray and Jessica, hosted a live discussion on obesity, insulin resistance and managing the “easy keeper.” If you missed it, listen in for tips on nutrition management, daily care, supplements and more!

March 28, 2012 Webinar, Webinar 1 Comment