Jasper
10-year-old
Welsh Pony Gelding
Jasper came to Daisy Haven Farm in July 2008. He was VERY sore, exhibiting Obel Grade 3 lameness (the horse exhibits a markedly stiff, stilted
gait; is reluctant to move; and resists attempts to lift a front foot). Jasper's body condition was typical of an Insulin Resistant horse, large cresty neck and unevenly distributed fat pads over the rest of the body. Subsequent blood work revealed elevated Insulin and ACTH. An appropriate diet and medication protocol was implimented.
Unfortunately, Jasper's hoof condition was very poor. In an advanced state of rotation and sinking (see radiographs below for details), Jasper was also reluctant to weigh his heels even in Soft-Ride boots (where the orthotic pad is on a wedge). After exploring many options, it was reluctantly determined that our "normal" trimming protocol, lowering heels/easing break over to the anterior coronary band, would not improve Jasper's situation. We proceeded with a bilateral Deep Digital Flexor Tenotomy with the help of Dr. Mark Donaldson, Unionville Equine Assoc., Oxford PA.
Jasper has far exceeded our best expectations. As of September 2008, Jasper was moving comfortably at the walk/trot (and BUCK), while limited to small paddock turnout. His hoof condition has improved immensely, with a normal P3 Palmar Angle, increased sole thickness, and correct angle of new hoof growth below the coronary band.
Please see Jasper's Case Study below...
| |
|
|
Jasper's front feet when he first came to DHF, Inc July 2008. Notice his inability to weigh his heels. The radiograph over digital picture is approximate...there is some slight movement in the pastern/fetlock between the two images, but gives you an idea of P3 placement within the hoof capsule.
|
Jasper Before/After Deep Digital Flexor Tenotomy, July 2008.
|
 |
| Before Tenotomy/After Tenotomy |
|
|
 |
| Before Tenotomy/After Tenotomy |
|
|
Jasper Radiographs Before and After the DDF Tenotomy, and then showing the improvements in sole depth and healthy growth at the coronary band at his next shoeing, 1 month later. Also note how the separation of P3 from the hoof wall is more evident as the dark line between the bone and dorsal wall.
|
Jasper's front feet in January 2009, 6 months after the DDF Tenotomy. We are very pleased with his sole depth and bone/hoof capsule alignment.
|
Jasper is now at his new home, being taught to drive a cart, 100% sound and barefoot! More pictures, radiographs, and videos coming soon!
|
|
