PINEHURST, N.C., Jan. 31, 2015 /PRNewswire-iReach/ -- Assisi
Animal Health, creators of the Assisi LoopTM, a
non-invasive and non-pharmaceutical healing and pain management
technology for animals, offers information to horse owners about
one of the most common causes of sudden, chronic lameness in
horses: hoof abscesses. Fortunately, hoof abscesses are
preventable, and there are several effective treatments
available.
Photo - http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20150129/172238
A horse that suddenly displays signs of lameness, often walking
with a Wobblers-like gait, may have an abscess within the hoof. If
there is no sign of injury or leg problems, yet the horse simply
refuses to put one foot on the ground, an abscess may be to
blame.
An abscess happens when pus accumulates in a localized area of
the hoof, potentially causing chronic pain. Once treated, there is
no lasting damage, and regular hoof care will help prevent the
abscess from returning.
Abscesses occur when bacteria enters the hoof via weak spots in
the interior. Bruising, small tears and minor injuries are usually
responsible for this weakened state. Dried hooves will shrink, and
when they become wet, the sudden expansion will allow bacteria to
enter. Penetrating wounds are also culprits, usually obtained by
standing on sharp objects such as rocks, stones, glass or nails.
Horseshoe nails may also be responsible if driven too close to the
inner hoof. Rocky ground and muddy conditions may cause bruising of
the soft inner sole, resulting in abscesses. Thermal injuries are
also common, and when a horse with a thin hoof sole wears a hot
horseshoe, a sterile abscess may form.
Hoof abscesses resemble a whitehead pimple, at least in the
beginning. Pain can range from mild to severe, and if the abscess
does not pop, the pus will continue to build up. This causes
pressure that makes it painful for the horse to walk. The abscess
could develop gradually or mature overnight. The quickest way to
resolve the issue is to pop it. The pressure will release, and the
pain will immediately diminish.
An abscess begins with a mild infection, causing the body to
produce more white blood cells. The combination of cell production,
inflammation and infection will build pressure that does not expand
because of the rigid hoof wall. Usually, abscesses rupture without
assistance, and some horses do not display symptoms of lameness.
However, this is not always the case. If the abscess is severe
enough, an equine veterinarian will have to drain, flush and clean
it.
Assisi Animal Health's clinical solutions complete the Circle of
CareTM — the collaboration of veterinarians and
owners in animal health and healing. Our company helps veterinary
professionals and owners improve the quality of life for companion
animals using the Assisi Loop, the non-invasive, non-pharmaceutical
healing device that is based on the same FDA-cleared technology
used on humans. The device uses low-level pulses of electromagnetic
energy to reduce pain and swelling, and to enhance recovery.
The Assisi Loop. Proven Science. Positive
Results.TM
For more information, visit our
website: www.assisianimalhealth.com.
Media Contact: Kaysie
Dannemiller, Assisi Animal Health, 1-866-830-7342,
kaysie.dannemiller@assisianimalhealth.com
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SOURCE Assisi Animal Health