FAQ
As equine vets we are constantly asked all manner of questions regarding horses. We have put together a few of the more common queries that we receive and hope that you find some answers that are of interest to you. This list will grow over time so remember to keep coming back to check up on us. If there is a curly question that you would like to put to us then please feel free to contact us and let us know.
What is the normal body temperature for a horse?
Your horse’s body temperature will vary over time. The normal body temperature for a horse is between 37 and 38.5 degrees Celcius.
Body temperature can vary with the heat of the day, excercise and temperament. If your horse is showing any signs of illness with a temperature consistently above 38.5 please give us a call. If the body temperature reaches 39.5 urgent veterinary attention is required.
How much does it cost to get my cat’s nails clipped?
Believe it or not this is one of the more common types of questions that we are asked over the phone!!
We are an EQUINE ONLY practice and our vets treat horses only. If you have dogs and cats that need treatment feel free to ask our opinion but please understand that we will always recommend that you see a small animal vet.
My horse has a snotty nose. What should I do?
Horses, like people, often get a runny nose which may or may not indictae a more serious problem such as a respiratory infection. If you notice a nasal discharge in your horse it is important to keep an eye out for any other signs of disease such as inappetance (off feed), coughing, increased body temperature (over 38.5 C) and lethargy. If any of these other signs are present then contact a vet as your horse most likely is in need of treatment.
It is also important to note the colour, consistency and volume of the discharge as this can provide useful information as to the cause of the problem. A slight clear watery discarge is often not significant but if your horse has a thick yellow mucous discharge then it will need immediate veterinary attention.
Can I order drugs over the phone?
Veterinary medications similar to human medications can be either prescription only or non-prescription.
Non-prescription medications are freely available and there is no need for the vet to have examined your horse. Examples of this type of medication are most vitamins, many feed supplements and various other treatments.
For prescription medications the horse must be under the care of the veterinary surgeon who is supplying the drug. This means that the horse must have been examined immediately before prescription and supply, or recently enough for the vet to have personal knowledge of the condition of the animal to make a diagnosis. This rule is part of the Veterinary Surgeons Act and vets who are in breach of it can face serious consequences so please do not ask us to supply you with prescription medications if we have not seen your horse.