I've very recently noticed that my 14 year old Quarter horse mare seems to be a bit on the sore side when I pick up her front right leg (mainly because she has to support herself with the sore leg). I couldn't figure out why because her gait seems fine and I checked for heat and swelling and I didn't notice anything, but there must be SOMETHING wrong because her joints on her left front crack and pop as I pick that foot up. I am going to get the vet out to look at her, but we can't get an appointment in until next week! Any theories on what it could be???
She was only a pleasure horse. I used to do a lot of trails with her, but she hasn't been ridden in awhile because I was pregnant (and my mare used to be a bit spooky)and we discovered the problem not long after I had my baby.
I had the vet out today to look at her leg. He actually confirmed that it was her shoulder that is hurting her, but he said it's really hard to give her a decent diagnosis because nothing is swollen or puffy. He gave me some bute to give to her so that she can get a trim. He also said that it is possible that it could be a touch of arthritis, and if it gets any worse we might have to do some x-rays. I was thinking about getting some glucosamine and seeing if it will help her to supplement with that....
Apple Cider Vinegar added to a horse's feed each day can be a great help in easing joint and muscle pain. It also has other benefits including reducing fly bites and helping to dissolve calcium deposits in the kidneys, bladder and around the joints. Used topically, it reduces swelling and disinfects skin wounds.
This site lists the benefits discovered by owners and the dosage used.
