The 5-Minute Lameness Check Every Horse Owner Should Know 🩺

Regular, quick lameness checks are one of the most effective ways to keep your horse healthy and sound. By dedicating just five minutes a day, you can spot early warning signs of injury, strain, or more serious conditions before they escalate. Early intervention often leads to better outcomes, saving you both heartache and costly veterinary bills down the road.

Here’s a simple daily check every horse owner should make part of their routine:

✅ Walk & Trot Test

Lead your horse at a walk and a trot on a straight, firm surface. Watch closely for any hesitation, stiffness, shortened stride, or irregular rhythm. These subtle changes in movement can be the earliest indicators of discomfort or pain.

Tip: A smooth, rhythmic gait is a sign of soundness, while unevenness often warrants closer examination.

✅ Watch for Uneven Steps or Head Bobbing

Pay attention to the natural symmetry of your horse’s movement. Uneven steps or an obvious head bob are classic signs of lameness. Typically, a horse will lift their head when the sore leg bears weight and lower it when the sound leg strikes the ground.

Tip: Recognizing these visual cues quickly can make a critical difference in early diagnosis.

✅ Feel for Heat and Swelling

Using your hands, methodically run down each leg, feeling for any areas of heat, swelling, or puffiness. Compare opposite legs for subtle differences. Heat and swelling often signal inflammation, injury, or infection—issues that are far easier to address if caught early.

✅ Check the Digital Pulse

Locate the digital pulse at the back of the fetlock or just above the pastern. A faint, barely detectable pulse is normal. A strong or bounding pulse can indicate increased blood flow due to inflammation, commonly seen in laminitis, hoof abscesses, or other foot problems.

Tip: Learning your horse’s normal digital pulse will make it much easier to detect early signs of trouble.

🐎 Proactive Care Deepens the Bond

Quick, consistent lameness checks are a simple but powerful way to show your horse you’re paying attention—and they can prevent minor issues from turning into major ones.

👉 If you notice any signs of lameness, heat, swelling, or an abnormally strong digital pulse, contact your veterinarian or farrier immediately. Early intervention can dramatically improve outcomes and recovery times.