Equine VetCentre in Montrose, Tasmania | Medical and health

Equine VetCentre

Locality: Montrose, Tasmania

Phone: +61 3 6272 3599

Address: 488 Main road 7010 Montrose, Tasmania, TAS, Australia

Website: http://www.vetcentre.net.au

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25.01.2022 Equine dental day- Kensington Park, Tuesday 18th July, cost $110 per horse for members of Derwent Valley Horse Riders or Derwent Valley Pony Club! Bookings essential.

24.01.2022 Congratulation Sydney and Claude for receiving our first aid box at the Bushy Park Show! We hope you dont need to use the equipment, but if something happens you will be well prepared!

22.01.2022 One week until our information evening!! We hope to see some of you there!

22.01.2022 A little bit of afternoon sewing! This shows the importance of having caps on your star pickets!

21.01.2022 Thank you Zoetis and Dr. LEstrange for a informative talk! Thank you to everyone who came along!!! What a great evening and great feedback!

21.01.2022 Dr Libby will be at the New Norfolk clinic this Thursday for any faecal egg counts that need doing!

20.01.2022 GASTROSCOPING DAY LIMITED AVAILABILITY in Tasmania!!!! Date: Friday 16th June Where: Kensington Park Equine, New Norfolk... Cost: $155, including sedation and dental check. Usually this procedure costs upwards of $300 on the mainland. Horses have to be off feed for 12 hours and off water for 6 hours for the procedure BOOKINGS NECESSARY

19.01.2022 Derwent Pony Club and Derwent Valley Horse Riders Association - something to think about!

19.01.2022 Equine gastric ulcer syndrome (EGUS) is a common issue in performance horses and foals. There are multiple risk factors that affect the prevalence of ulcers - for example stress, transportation, high-grain diets, stall confinement, intermittent feeding, intense exercise, racing, illness, the use of non-steroidal antiinflammorty drugs, and management changes. The clinical signs of EGUS in the adult horse, are numerous and often vague. Some clinical signs are reoccurring colic,... poor body condition, partial anorexia, poor appetite, poor performance and training, attitude changes, stretching to urinate, chronic diarrhoea, inadequate energy and excessive recumbency. The majority of ulcers are found in non-glandular stomach, which is predisposed to ulcers as it lacks the protective buffering capacity of the mucous, that is found in the glandular region. EGUS is diagnosed on clinical signs, and performing a gastroscope. This allows direct visulaisation and grading of gastric ulcers and allows the formulation of a treatment plan. If your horse is showing any of the above symptoms, we are lucky enough to be holding a Gastroscope day in conjunction with Randlab, on Friday 16th June, at Kensington Park Equestrian Centre, New Norfolk. Please do not hesitate to contact us if you would like to book in!

18.01.2022 Wishing everyone a happy and healthy, horse filled 2017! Please be mindful of fireworks this evening a make sure your horses are carefully secured. If you have been following the case of Magic in NSW, you would be aware of the spate of horse thefts on the mainland. If someone stole your horse, could you prove your ownership? Below is a link to a great article about equine identification. Hopefully we never have that problem in Tassie! http://www.horsecouncil.org.au/horse-/horse-identification/

18.01.2022 Founder - why green grass isn't good for your pony! Have you noticed your pony or horse looking sore on their feet? Is there increased heat in the hooves or increased digital pulses? They may be suffering from acute laminitis due to all this lush green grass. What is laminitis?... Laminitis, or founder, is inflammation and swelling of the structures (laminae) that attach the internal hoof bones to the hoof wall. The laminae are tiny finger like structures that interlock and secure the pedal bone to the hoof wall. The inflammation of laminae causes pain and instability of the pedal bone within the hoof. In severe cases, this instability can result in complete separation between the pedal bone and hoof wall. What do you do? - Remove your horse from long grass - Place in paddock with less/minimal - Ideally sand is the best footing - Ice or hosing feet help reduce heat and inflammation - Call your vet to discuss medical management this may include using sole support, or using non-steroidal anti-inflammatories. - Contact your farrier

17.01.2022 A product that I have confidence in! Available at Montrose and New Norfolk and also have a special vet only buy 3 and get 1 free offer!

17.01.2022 The last couple of weeks, once again have reiterated the need for a close equine community in Tasmania. Without a referral hospital in Southern Tasmania, you need to have a plan for what you are going to do if the worst case scenario occurs. What if your horse needs to go on intravenous fluids? What happens if your horse tears a tendon and needs stall confinement? Where are you going to put your horse if they develop a serious corneal ulcer and needs to be stabled? You need t...o have a plan in place for these potential situations. Do you have a buddy down the road that you have a discussion with to pre-plan incase you need to borrow their stable? Are you in the process of building a shelter shed? If so, then think about how you can convert it to a stable if needed. Is there someone in your local pony club or riding club that is the go to person? Asking these questions and having an emergency equine plan can make stressful situation a little easier! See more

17.01.2022 Is your pony or horse at high risk of laminitis? High-risk group include; - Fat ponies and crossbreeds are most predisposed to laminitis - Horses that have showed signs of previous laminitis episodes - Horses with endocrine abnormalities - Pituitary Pars Intermedia Dysfunction (Cushings Disease) or Equine Metabolic Syndrome ... Equine Metabolic Syndrome (Insulin Resistance) - This is when there is abnormal regulation to sugar levels in the blood and tissues of the body. When a horse (or human) eats, insulin is secreted by the pancreas into the blood stream to direct the uptake of sugars in the blood stream to be used for energy or stored as fat. With insulin resistance, the insulin is still secreted by the pancreas, but the sugar absorption is much slower. Because of this, even more insulin is secreted to facilitate sugar absorption. This is termed insulin resistance. Research has shown insulin resistance is a major contributing factor in laminitis. Pituitary Pars Intermedia Dysfunction (Cushings Disease) - This is caused by degeneration of the hormone neurons in the hypothalamus (which controls metabolism via the pituitary gland), and as a result, there are abnormal hormones released. These elevated hormones cause abnormal regulation with the metabolism, inflammatory and immune responses. In horses with chronic laminitis, some studies have shown 78% of those have elevated ACTH hormone, indicating Cushings disease. It is important that if a laminitic horse has additional clinical signs, that Cushings disease is diagnosed and treatment is commence to manage concurrent laminitis.

16.01.2022 Rain scald There seems to be a few cases of rain scald going around. Rain scald is the common name for a bacterial infection caused by Dermatophilus congolensis, seen on horses skin. The bacteria lives on the skin of the horse and in the right conditions it colonises and forms the changes to the skin and coat that we are all common with. Most commonly the flat parts of the body, the head, withers, top-line and rump are most likely affected as water doesnt drain away as qui...ckly. The infected skin produces a discharge which dries and causes clumping and matting of the hair. Often in severe infections secondary infections can occur, increasing the degree of irritation to the horse, and exacerbating skin inflammation and resulting in open sores. Younger horses, horses under stress or older immune suppressed horses are more vulnerable to dermatophilus infections. Be mindful of the older horses, with thicker coats, such as those suffering Cushings disease are at higher risk of infection. Dermatophilus infections can be transmitted from one horse to another by insect vectors such as biting flies or midges. As rain scald is a bacterial infection a medicated shampoo with an antibacterial component like iodine or chlorhexidine is the first treatment method. A commonly recommended shampoo is Malaseb. It is important with these shampoos that the recommended contact time is adhered too. For example, with Malaeb Shampoo, a 10 minute contact time is vital. The medicate shampoos should be repeated every second day for 2-3 washes. Bleach solutions and listerine concoctions may only cause to exacerbate the skin irritation without dealing with the underlying bacterial condition, and should be discouraged. Where severe infections are present, and there is a suspicion of secondary infections, systemic antibiotics may be required. Please dont hesitate to give us a call if you want to chat about rain scald!

16.01.2022 This would make breeding in Tasmania much more successful! Wonderful research!

15.01.2022 Recently a few clients have been trialing a product called Epiitalis Forte. The product came out originally called 4cyte and came as a feed additive - with a distinct fishy smell about it. As you can imagine horses did not particularly appreciate the fish component and palatability was an issue. As a result, they produced Epiitalis Forte, an oral once daily supplement. produced by an oil extract from the seed of Biota orientalis. It is a supplement to address stiffnes...s or lack of willingness to perform, to support moderate to severe arthritis in conjunction with other treatments, to support healing after joint injury or surgery, and to promote healthy joints in high performance horses. Epiitalis is patented for its ability to maintain cells in joint cartilage that aids in production of healthy cartilage instead of degeneration. It also suppresses the inflammatory chemicals responsible for poor joint function and inflammation. I was a little skeptical about this product - however I have heard nothing but good reports and I am confident in recommending this product to my clients. A client reviewed the product and said the following; Commache was administered the dose of Epiitalis Forte as recommended and experienced significant improvement in joint mobility. This was observed through; easier handling and more stability when being led and have hooves cleaned, and increase in pushy behaviour (barging through gates to get to grass and feed, lower levels of tolerance of my children (swatting with head), charging at the dog and cantering and trotting off after administration of the paste. He had an observed level of ease from discomfort (not moving about as much, or shifting position to get comfortable). The product is non-invasive, easily administered, can be taken in conjunction with other medications. It can be taken long term with no know side effects. One tube of the product should last 59 days on maintenance dose. This product can only be purchased through a veterinary business. We offer loyalty cards for this product- BUY 3 and get the 4th free!! Please give us a call at Montrose or New Norfolk Vet Centre for more information. We

15.01.2022 There is hope!!! One day We all might be using this!

14.01.2022 Montrose VetCentre in conjunction with Randlab are looking to host a equine gastroscoping day in the next two weeks. Gastroscoping is when you place a small video through the horses nose and then down their oesophagus and look at the lining of their stomach. This allows us to assess for equine gastric ulcer syndrome. The cost would be approximately $155, including sedation, dental check and sheath clean for the boys! To hold the day we would need a minimum of 5 horses. Please give us a call if you are interested or have any questions!

14.01.2022 Founder - why green grass isnt good for your pony! Have you noticed your pony or horse looking sore on their feet? Is there increased heat in the hooves or increased digital pulses? They may be suffering from acute laminitis due to all this lush green grass. What is laminitis?... Laminitis, or founder, is inflammation and swelling of the structures (laminae) that attach the internal hoof bones to the hoof wall. The laminae are tiny finger like structures that interlock and secure the pedal bone to the hoof wall. The inflammation of laminae causes pain and instability of the pedal bone within the hoof. In severe cases, this instability can result in complete separation between the pedal bone and hoof wall. What do you do? - Remove your horse from long grass - Place in paddock with less/minimal - Ideally sand is the best footing - Ice or hosing feet help reduce heat and inflammation - Call your vet to discuss medical management this may include using sole support, or using non-steroidal anti-inflammatories. - Contact your farrier

13.01.2022 Everyone at the Montrose and New Norfolk VetCentre would like to wish all our clients and patients a happy and safe Christmas! We thank you for all your support and look forward to may happy visits in 2017!

13.01.2022 Nap time for this little man after loosing a few #equinesofinstagram #equinevets #mixedpracticevet #montrosevets #newnorfolk #pony #castration #gelding #geldingsofinstagram #hobartandbeyond

12.01.2022 Warning- NOT ALL HAY IS GOOD HAY!!! Ive noticed and had reports of people baling paddocks that have had a flush of purple flower in it. Please be aware of Patersons Curse! Its not overly common in southern Tasmania, but becoming more of an issue. Most importantly, Patersons Curse or Salvation Jane is a hepatotoxin causing issues with the liver in horses, sheep and cattle. This is due to the breakdown of the plant into pyrrolizidine alkaloids that causes cell death, most commonly in the liver. Toxicity can be either acute or chronic and can result in sudden death. Obviously horses grazing on heavily contaminated pastures are at higher risk, however consumption of low levels over a prolonged period may cause permanent changes in the liver. Please be mindful about the quality of hay and level of weed contamination when buying!

12.01.2022 Look at this! Awesome dissection and very educational! https://www.facebook.com/Gwennael.Cadet.Public/videos/1900565936839197/

11.01.2022 With winter over, and spring around the corner, the risk of laminitis becomes more prominent. What is laminitis? Laminitis, or founder, is inflammation and swelling of the structures (laminae) that attach the internal hoof bones to the hoof wall. The laminae are tiny finger like structures that interlock and secure the pedal bone to the hoof wall. The inflammation of laminae causes pain and instability of the pedal bone within the hoof. In severe cases, this instability can r...esult in complete separation between the pedal bone and hoof wall, resulting in rotation and sinking. Laminitis can be fatal, and is one of the leading causes of death for ponies in Australia. Once a horse has an episode of laminitis, they are particularly susceptible to future episodes. There is no cure for laminitis, which is why management and prevention are so important. Initial (acute) Symptoms - All four feet can be affected, however as the front limbs support 60% of a horses weight, they are more commonly affected. - Horses with laminitis are often reluctant to move and sometimes adopt a sawhorse stance, where they rock their weight back off the more severely affected limbs. Laminitic horses often spend more time lying down to remove pressure from their hooves. - The affected limbs around the coronary band and hoof wall are often warm to touch. - There is often pain on application of hoof testers, particularly over the toe area. - Digital pulses are often strong and rapid and can be considered as bounding. Digital pulses are found at the back of your horses fetlocks. Please ask your vet to demonstrate where to find digital pulses. Chronic Laminitis This occurs when inflammation had been present for some times, and structural changes are evident. - There are often laminitis rings on the surface of the hoof and can indicate pervious laminitic episodes - The hoof wall can become dish/slipper shape with long toes, and contracted heels. - Laminitis may be low grade, and mild changes in management can result in flair into acute laminitis. Causes of Laminitis The main cause of laminitis is over feeding, particularly during spring months after recent rain. The non-structured carbohydrate (fructans, glucose and lactose) content increase in grasses and cloves after rain. Consumption of increase sugar alters the blood flow to the hoof, which can initiate laminae inflammation.

11.01.2022 We are proud to be sponsors of the Hamilton Show! Get your entries in now! https://hamiltonshowtasmania.com/equestrian/

10.01.2022 What are digital pulses? Running down both inside and outside of the front and back legs are a what we call a neurovascular bundle that contains both nerves, arteries and veins. These obviously supply a component of innervation and blood to and from the hoof and internal structures. When inflammation occurs within the hoof capsule, such as what occurs during an episode of laminitis, the pressure within these arteries and veins increase therefore making them easier to feel. Generally, a vet can palpate the digital pulses at all times, but during laminitis the digital pulses are considered bounding.

10.01.2022 As the days get warmer and the grass dries off its time to start thinking about our bushfire plans for both ourselves and our four legged friends. Whats your horse plan? Do you have a friend down the road that you can buddy up with to aid in emergency transport? Do you have a fire paddock on your property? Can you take them to your instructor or is the local pony club your drop off point? Have you got an emergency horse kit organised? If the worst happens and a bushfire comes through your property do you leave rugs on or off? Do you have copies of your horses microchip number stored somewhere for proof of ownership? These are some of the questions needed to be asked and planned for - before an emergency occurs! What are your plans?

09.01.2022 We still have the 4cyte Epiitalis Forte promotion on offer! Buy 1 tube and get a free extra 60 grams for free! Also remember if you buy through Montrose or New Norfolk VetCentre every fourth tube is free!

08.01.2022 Have you got a question or a topic youve always wanted to ask a vet? Now is your time!!! Ask Dr Libby and hear the answer at our information evening on March 8th!

08.01.2022 For the month or MAY, in conjunction with Boehringer, we are offering a limited number of FREE ACTH blood tests*. Endogenous ACTH is the method of testing for Pituitary Pars Intermedia Dysfunction (PPID), otherwise known as Cushings Disease. Although commonly thought of as a disease of older animals, more than 40% of horses and ponies aged 10-15 years with at least one clinical sign of Cushing Disease tested positive. The most common clinical signs associated with PPID are; ... Recurrent laminitis, Abnormal hair growth, Abnormal fat deposits Dullness or poor performance The learn more about Cushings disease visit www.talkaboutlaminitis.com.au/ppid Call today to arrange an appointment *Please note consultations and travel fees still apply

07.01.2022 Osteoarthritis a degenerative disease common to all species including horses and ponies. To understand osteoarthritis, it is important general knowledge of how a joint is put together and the main structures. A joint has a capsule, in which the two bone ends sit, covered in articular cartilage, and all surrounded by synovial (joint) fluid. Stress or disease can cause inflammation and change to the articular cartilage. As a result, there is an increase in inflammatory mediator...Continue reading

07.01.2022 What would you do if you pulled your horse out of the paddock and found this? Hopefully, after freaking out a bit, you would call the vet! This fella had a very sore head, his eye was positioned a bit funny, and an open draining hole. Initially, we did some minor surgery, opened around the hole, and attempted to flush the area out. He went on a course of antibiotic and wound cleared up! However, it was too good to be true and shortly after it was back again. Next with the gui...de of xrays, Dr. Nicholson and Dr. Cooper did standing surgery on him, and pulled out an impressive lump of wood that was stuck approximately 5 cm down behind his eye socket! The entire hole in his head was about 12 cm in length and 5 cm in diameter! We are amazed he did not damage his eye! The piece of wood had driven bone deep down into the hole and it all had to be taken out. 10 days later, this mischievous fella is back to normal with a slight dent in his head! We think he should make a good recovery and hopefully we will see him racing this time next year! See more

06.01.2022 Just a reminder about increased risk of sand colic due to a lack of grass coverage and horses grazing close to the ground. Colic is a generalised term to describe abdominal discomfort in horses. There are many various causes of colic, one of which is ingestion of sand. In poor seasons when horses are grazing close to the ground, scavenging for food, or consuming forage placed directly on the ground, ingestion of sand is a greater risk. Sand travels through the digestive track... and can accumulate in either the ventral or dorsal colon. If sand ingestion is in sufficient quantities this accumulation can cause impactions of the colon preventing normal passage of digestive material - therefore causing abdominal discomfort. Colic generally can present in various forms, from mild intermitted discomfort to acute severe abdominal pain. Sand impactions typically present similar to large colon impactions. A diagnosis of sand impactions is tentatively made on clinical signs, the presence of sand in the faeces, changes on abdominal radiographs and the auscultation of the ventral abdomen. Taking a faecal sample and placing it in a container and mixing the faecal material with water can determine the presence of sand in faeces as the sand will sink to the bottom. Treatment of sand impaction depends of the severity of clinical signs. Medical management may include analgesia, intravenous fluids and nasogastric tubing with mineral oil and isotonic electrolytes. Phyllium husk or a product called Sand Lube, is also a common therapy as it is thought to act by stimulating motility or agglutinating the sand. Unfortunately in some cases surgical removal of sand is required (as shown by the photo!). Feeding in bins, on rubber matting or utalising hay bags can aid in the prevention of excessive sand ingestion. Please keep vigilant! By Dr Libby Cooper

03.01.2022 Something for people to keep in mind. This is more likely the typical presentation for snake envenomation.

02.01.2022 Dr Libby is attending the Bain Fallon Lectures, the biggest equine veterinarian conference in the Southern Hemisphere hosted by Equine Vets Australia. Shes enjoying the warmer weather for the week in QLD and we cant wait to hear about whats the latest and greatest theories in equine medicine and surgery!

01.01.2022 Just a reminder- Gastroscoping day, next Friday 16th June, at Kensington Park, New Norfolk! Bookings essential!

01.01.2022 A really nice article about EMS and the slippery slope into laminitis! http://www.thehorse.com//ems-and-the-slippery-slope-to-lam