Guide to Equine Lameness

This guide provides you with a basic understanding of the nature of lameness, its causes, treatment and prevention as they relate to horse health and welfare. Understanding and being able to recognize lameness in your horse is of fundamental importance in owning and caring for your horse.

Most horses, and virtually all working horses, will suffer from lameness from time to time. Injuries that cause lameness can be mild,for example a simple stone bruise of the sole, to severe, for example a torn suspensory ligament. Symptoms range from a barely perceptible limp to the horse refusing to stand on an injured leg.

This guide will help you understand lameness, be able to identify if your horse is lame, and explain the typical treatments of lameness.