Florida has its unique challenges for horses. A combination of the climate, humidity, wet ground, insects and typical management practices can expose Florida’s horse population to certain diseases and illnesses. These problems include the following list:   Insect borne diseases.Mosquitos carry viruses such as West Nile Virus, Eastern Equine Encephalitis

With the seasons changing and the weather getting cooler, this is the perfect time of year for your horse to have a visit with the vet, especially if traveling for competitions or leisure. Respiratory vaccines and tapeworm treatment are key components of a fall visit. Respiratory infections like equine influenza

The majority of horse lameness issues are in the foot. The horse will most often have a significant limp or not want to use the limb. There are other possibilities for such a significant lameness such as a fracture, septic joint or tendon injury but unless there is a large

An attentive horse owner will notice subtle changes in their horses’ behavior. Horses are creatures of habit and routine so these variations may indicate that the horse isn’t feeling well. Signs that may indicate colic are lethargy, lying down more than usual, pawing, decreased appetite, looking at their sides and

WNV is a virus spread by mosquitoes and can infect multiple animal species including humans. The virus persists in wild birds, mosquitoes biting the infected birds can transmit the virus to other animals and humans. Humans and horses are considered “dead end hosts”, meaning when a mosquito bites an infected

There is a systematic plan for diagnosing a lameness in your horse that includes an exam with potential nerve blocks, radiographs and ultrasound. The first step is always to perform a thorough lameness work-up to determine a baseline lameness and determine which leg is affected. Palpation and a visual exam

Horses will always find a way to injure themselves so it’s important to provide a safe environment and have a well-stocked first aid kit. The correct supplies will allow you to perform “triage” until your veterinarian arrives. Critical areas that need assessment and treatment as soon as possible are deep

The American Association of Equine Practitioners recommends core vaccines be given to your horses at least yearly. Core vaccines include the West Nile Virus (WNV), Eastern and Western Equine Encephalomyelitis (EEE/WEE), tetanus, and rabies. Due to the year-round mosquito population, vaccination boosters are recommended every 6 months for EEE/WEE and

Your horses’ lungs are critical for competition, pleasure riding and general health. If you have had the flu or a cold, you know how uncomfortable you feel and how hard breathing can be. Unlike people, horses cannot breath out of their mouth so any nasal discharge or congestion can be

Compassionate Care On The MoveAt Polk Equine, we cherish the bond between you and your equine companions. Since 2012, under the experienced guidance of our passionate equine veterinarian, Dr. Katie Hennessy, we’ve brought personalized, high-quality veterinary care directly to your stable doors. Dr. Hennessy’s adoration for horses shines through in