We have a pacer that has a problem with his front legs, we have the vet out at least once a fortnight?

Question

He has had all the injections that the vet has advised. But he still moves as though he is sore. We have had the farrier out and he recomended and placed "pads" under his shoes to absorb the impact on the track. He has had alot of problems with his feet and legs, all have been treated by a vet and a farrier. Does anyone have anyother ideas on what could be done to assist him. He loves to race and would do it on 3 legs if we did not stop him. He is the most loving horse, more a pet than a racer. Thank you for your assistance with his problem, I hope you can help him

Answer 1

Without knowing what's wrong with your horse's front feet and or legs, I do have a few thoughts and suggestions. First and foremost, a pacer who is chronically sore /lame in one front leg or the other will eventually go sore or lame in the hind leg on the same side ! That said, it is possible that the initial cause of his front leg/foot lameness started in the hind leg on the same side. Thus , continued treatment in front does not solve the problem because the hind leg issue was not addressed ! Have your vet go over his hind end to possibly find a possible problem causing a secondary lameness in front ! Secondly, not knowing the age of your pacer and his class, i.e. claimer, condition, open ect., if chronic front feet lameness is his problem, and ALL possible treatments have been exausted, I would discuss de-nerving his front feet with your vet. It may sound a bit cruel, but believe me it's not, and may help your horse a great deal by eliminating most of his pain in his feet and allowing him to race sounder and more successfully ! I hope i have been some help.

Answer 2

It is possible that the problem is not with his legs but his back or withers. Did you have these areas checked out?

Answer 3

There is an old fashione remedy called horse linament it is a waxy substance that you place aroundthe front leg muscles and have it bound with cotton cloth to hold it in place ~~

Answer 4

You can use this medication 1/3 BAL and 1/3 listerine  regular and 1/3 glycerine    Shake well  and apply as much as you need  wrap the front legs in plastic wrap then put a heavy thick bandage to sweat. Do this for a week you will not blister him and check his front feet for a stone bruise Rub vaseoline in the heels If is feet are hot pack them in oatmeal that will draw the heat out. How do I know this I worked for the family business and Calumet farms and Jack Vanberg who is in Calif. Good Luck