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Mid-Rivers Equine Centre
13 hours ago
Mid-Rivers Equine Centre

THE RIDDEN HORSE PAIN ETHOGRAM: DETECTING LAMENESS THROUGH BEHAVIOR

The Ridden Horse Pain Ethogram was developed by Dr. Sue Dyson “through a six-phase study, spanning three years, and over 400 horses. The tool assists in predicting lameness before physical limping occurs. It is a behavior-based assessment that objectively evaluates pain-related behavior during ridden exercise.

THE RIDDEN HORSE ETHOGRAM
To utilize The Ridden Horse Pain Ethogram, a horse is observed under saddle. The ethogram is divided into three categories: Facial Markers, Body Markers, Gait Marker. For each category, specific signs are listed, including stiffness, lack of impulsion, abnormal head carriage, and discomfort during stretching. By observing and recording these signs, it is possible to identify the presence and intensity of pain in a ridden horse.

The 24 behaviors are divided into 3 categories: facial markers, body markers, and gait markers.
Facial markers
1. The ears rotated back behind vertical or flat (both or one only) for five or more seconds, or repeatedly laying the ears flat
2. The eye lids closed or half closed for two to five seconds
3. Sclera (white of the eye) repeatedly exposed
4. An intense stare for five or more seconds
5. The mouth opening and shutting repeatedly with separation of teeth, for ten or more seconds
6. The tongue exposed, protruding or hanging out, and / or moving in and out
7. The bit pulled through the mouth on one side (left or right)
Body markers
8. Repeated changes of head position (up / down, but not in rhythm with trot)
9. Head tilted, repeated
10. Head in front of vertical (more than 30 degrees) for ten or more seconds
11. Head behind vertical (more than 10 degrees) for ten or more seconds
12. Head position changes regularly, tossed or twisted from side to side, corrected constantly
13. Tail clamped tightly to middle or held to one side
14. Tail swishing large movements: repeatedly up and down / side to side / circular; during transitions
Gait markers
15. A rushed gait (frequency of trot steps greater than 40 in 15 seconds); irregular rhythm in trot or canter; repeated changes of speed in trot or canter
16. Gait too slow (frequency of trot steps less than 35 in 15 seconds); passage-like trot
17. Hindlimbs do not follow tracks of forelimbs but deviated to left or right; on three tracks in trot or canter
18. Canter repeated strike off wrong leg; change of leg in front and / or behind (disunited)
19. Spontaneous changes of gait (e.g., breaks from canter to trot, or trot to canter)
20. Stumbles or trips repeatedly; repeated bilateral hindlimb toe drag
21. Sudden change of direction, against rider’s direction; spooking
22. Reluctant to move forward (has to be kicked, with or without verbal encouragement), stops spontaneously
23. Rearing (both forelimbs off the ground)
24. Bucking or kicking backwards (one or both hindlimbs)

THE EVALUATION
To begin, observe the horse's baseline behavior during a five-minute walk. Then, the horse undergoes a standardized exercise protocol, where they are asked to perform a variety of gaits, including walk, trot, and canter, as well as changes of direction and halts. Closely watch the horse throughout the exercise, taking note of any behaviors that manifest and assigning scores accordingly.

The scores are then tallied and averaged for each category, resulting in a quantitative measure of the horse's pain-related behavior. This information can be invaluable in guiding diagnostic and treatment processes, as well as in monitoring the horse's progress over time.

Download the illustrated field guide to better understand and evaluate the pain behaviors: https://midriversequine.com/wp-content/uploads/…

Download the Pain Behavior Checklist Worksheet: https://midriversequine.com/wp-content/uploads/…

NOTE:
It is important to note that while this ethogram has been validated for assessing pain in English Sport horses, it may not apply to all breeds and disciplines. Additionally, it should always be used in conjunction with other clinical assessments, such as lameness evaluations and palpation of affected areas.

In conclusion, "The Ridden Horse Pain Ethogram" is a valuable tool for objectively assessing pain-related behaviors in ridden horses. By closely observing and grading behaviors during exercise, clinicians can gain valuable insights into a horse's welfare and make informed decisions regarding their care. ... See MoreSee Less

THE RIDDEN HORSE PAIN ETHOGRAM: DETECTING LAMENESS THROUGH BEHAVIOR The Ridden Horse Pain Ethogram was developed by Dr. Sue Dyson “through a six-phase study, spanning three years, and over 400 horses. The tool assists in predicting lameness before physical limping occurs. It is a behavior-based assessment that objectively evaluates pain-related behavior during ridden exercise. THE RIDDEN HORSE ETHOGRAM To utilize The Ridden Horse Pain Ethogram, a horse is observed under saddle. The ethogram is divided into three categories: Facial Markers, Body Markers, Gait Marker. For each category, specific signs are listed, including stiffness, lack of impulsion, abnormal head carriage, and discomfort during stretching. By observing and recording these signs, it is possible to identify the presence and intensity of pain in a ridden horse. The 24 behaviors are divided into 3 categories: facial markers, body markers, and gait markers. Facial markers 1. The ears rotated back behind vertical or flat (both or one only) for five or more seconds, or repeatedly laying the ears flat 2. The eye lids closed or half closed for two to five seconds 3. Sclera (white of the eye) repeatedly exposed 4. An intense stare for five or more seconds 5. The mouth opening and shutting repeatedly with separation of teeth, for ten or more seconds 6. The tongue exposed, protruding or hanging out, and / or moving in and out 7. The bit pulled through the mouth on one side (left or right) Body markers 8. Repeated changes of head position (up / down, but not in rhythm with trot) 9. Head tilted, repeated 10. Head in front of vertical (more than 30 degrees) for ten or more seconds 11. Head behind vertical (more than 10 degrees) for ten or more seconds 12. Head position changes regularly, tossed or twisted from side to side, corrected constantly 13. Tail clamped tightly to middle or held to one side 14. Tail swishing large movements: repeatedly up and down / side to side / circular; during transitions Gait markers 15. A rushed gait (frequency of trot steps greater than 40 in 15 seconds); irregular rhythm in trot or canter; repeated changes of speed in trot or canter 16. Gait too slow (frequency of trot steps less than 35 in 15 seconds); passage-like trot 17. Hindlimbs do not follow tracks of forelimbs but deviated to left or right; on three tracks in trot or canter 18. Canter repeated strike off wrong leg; change of leg in front and / or behind (disunited) 19. Spontaneous changes of gait (e.g., breaks from canter to trot, or trot to canter) 20. Stumbles or trips repeatedly; repeated bilateral hindlimb toe drag 21. Sudden change of direction, against rider’s direction; spooking 22. Reluctant to move forward (has to be kicked, with or without verbal encouragement), stops spontaneously 23. Rearing (both forelimbs off the ground) 24. Bucking or kicking backwards (one or both hindlimbs) THE EVALUATION To begin, observe the horses baseline behavior during a five-minute walk. Then, the horse undergoes a standardized exercise protocol, where they are asked to perform a variety of gaits, including walk, trot, and canter, as well as changes of direction and halts. Closely watch the horse throughout the exercise, taking note of any behaviors that manifest and assigning scores accordingly. The scores are then tallied and averaged for each category, resulting in a quantitative measure of the horses pain-related behavior. This information can be invaluable in guiding diagnostic and treatment processes, as well as in monitoring the horses progress over time. Download the illustrated field guide to better understand and evaluate the pain behaviors: https://www.midriversequine.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/twtp-24behaviours-mobileversion-v230623.pdf Download the Pain Behavior Checklist Worksheet: https://www.midriversequine.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/twtp-24behaviours-worksheet-v522723.pdf NOTE: It is important to note that while this ethogram has been validated for assessing pain in English Sport horses, it may not apply to all breeds and disciplines. Additionally, it should always be used in conjunction with other clinical assessments, such as lameness evaluations and palpation of affected areas. In conclusion, The Ridden Horse Pain Ethogram is a valuable tool for objectively assessing pain-related behaviors in ridden horses. By closely observing and grading behaviors during exercise, clinicians can gain valuable insights into a horses welfare and make informed decisions regarding their care.
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Mid-Rivers Equine Centre
2 days ago
Mid-Rivers Equine Centre

TUESDAY TRIVIA ANSWER:
Are you familiar with the Ridden Horse Pain Ethogram? This is a measure of pain behaviors exhibited by English sport horses during riding developed by Sue Dyson VetMB, PhD. According to this measure, 24 behaviors indicate pain in horses during riding. When a horse displays at least ____(fill in the blank) of these behaviors, it is likely an indication of musculoskeletal pain. The answer is eight of the 24 behaviors. If a horse displays eight or more of these behaviors, they are likely in pain while being ridden. Although showing a minimum of 8 signs is not required for us to consider them lame, it is an evaluation tool to evaluate behavior in correlation to pain. Watch for these behaviors and notify your vet should you observe them.

#PainEthogram #HorseHealth #TuesdayTrivia #Lameness ... See MoreSee Less

TUESDAY TRIVIA ANSWER: Are you familiar with the Ridden Horse Pain Ethogram? This is a measure of pain behaviors exhibited by English sport horses during riding developed by Sue Dyson VetMB, PhD. According to this measure, 24 behaviors indicate pain in horses during riding. When a horse displays at least ____(fill in the blank) of these behaviors, it is likely an indication of musculoskeletal pain. The answer is eight of the 24 behaviors. If a horse displays eight or more of these behaviors, they are likely in pain while being ridden. Although showing a minimum of 8 signs is not required for us to consider them lame, it is an evaluation tool to evaluate behavior in correlation to pain. Watch for these behaviors and notify your vet should you observe them. #PainEthogram #HorseHealth #TuesdayTrivia #Lameness
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Mid-Rivers Equine Centre
3 days ago
Mid-Rivers Equine Centre

TUESDAY TRIVIA: Are you familiar with the Ridden Horse Pain Ethogram? This is a measure of pain behaviors exhibited by English sport horses during riding developed by Sue Dyson VetMB, PhD. According to this measure, 24 behaviors indicate pain in horses during riding. When a horse displays at least ____(fill in the blank) of these behaviors, it is likely to indicate musculoskeletal pain. Put on your thinking cap and try to answer this trivia question! ... See MoreSee Less

TUESDAY TRIVIA: Are you familiar with the Ridden Horse Pain Ethogram? This is a measure of pain behaviors exhibited by English sport horses during riding developed by Sue Dyson VetMB, PhD. According to this measure, 24 behaviors indicate pain in horses during riding. When a horse displays at least ____(fill in the blank) of these behaviors, it is likely to indicate musculoskeletal pain. Put on your thinking cap and try to answer this trivia question!
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I have been trying to find hay in our area since my hay man sold most of his property last year and did not tell me. I had to buy hay from a store which about killed me in price. I have noticed when looking for a new farmer that some of the hay contains red, white clover. I thought clover in hay was bad for horses.

12 out of 24 ... to exhibit pain?

Mid-Rivers Equine Centre
4 days ago
Mid-Rivers Equine Centre

With immense pleasure, we announce the return of one of our very own - Ellie! After spending some time pursuing her passion for biology, Ellie has returned to Mid-Rivers Equine Centre as an Equine Veterinary Assistant, and we couldn't be more thrilled!

As some of you may know, Ellie previously worked at the clinic as a Night Attendant but left to pursue higher education. After completing her degree, she returns to us with an even greater understanding and passion for equine health and wellness.

Please join me in extending a warm welcome to Ellie as she embarks on this exciting new chapter in her career. Our equine patients are in great hands with her on our team!

#ourteamrocks #equinehospital ... See MoreSee Less

With immense pleasure, we announce the return of one of our very own - Ellie! After spending some time pursuing her passion for biology, Ellie has returned to Mid-Rivers Equine Centre as an Equine Veterinary Assistant, and we couldnt be more thrilled! As some of you may know, Ellie previously worked at the clinic as a Night Attendant but left to pursue higher education. After completing her degree, she returns to us with an even greater understanding and passion for equine health and wellness. Please join me in extending a warm welcome to Ellie as she embarks on this exciting new chapter in her career. Our equine patients are in great hands with her on our team! #ourteamrocks #equinehospital
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Thank you all for making Ellie feel welcome! 🙂

Congrats on your educational achievements and bringing your love and commitment back to Mid-Rivers patients and families!

Yes Ellie!! So proud of you!

Welcome home Ellie! ❤

Welcome back Ellie!

Welcome back!

Welcome back!

Welcome!

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Mid-Rivers Equine Centre
7 days ago
Mid-Rivers Equine Centre

Every spring, the team at Mid-Rivers Equine Centre is reminded of why we love our job. The arrival of the new foals is a special time for everyone involved and there's no feeling quite like it.

#foalsofinstagram #foalseason #welovehorses #horsevets #midriversequine ... See MoreSee Less

Every spring, the team at Mid-Rivers Equine Centre is reminded of why we love our job. The arrival of the new foals is a special time for everyone involved and theres no feeling quite like it. #foalsofinstagram #foalseason #welovehorses #horsevets #midriversequineImage attachmentImage attachment
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That’s our Fancy and the infamous Rebart, named by Dr. Hoover. She is the reason he is here. We keep you guys busy, that’s for sure! Thanks for all you do! We love you all.

Savannah with her sweet mule foal Grace! Born there!

Big baby there!

Patty Quirin If you want t-shirt order for here.....👇👇👇 teefame.shop/20230602-232315?s=hanes-5250&c=White&p=FRONT

Mid-Rivers Equine Centre
1 week ago
Mid-Rivers Equine Centre

BANDAGING -NO LUMPS, BUMPS, OR WRINKLES

When it comes to bandaging your horse's legs, it's crucial to pay attention to every detail. Even the slightest wrinkle, fold, or lump in the bandage can cause discomfort for your equine companion. Imagine wearing socks and shoes and the sock has a crease in it. It will be incredibly uncomfortable to walk on.

Improperly applied bandages can not only cause discomfort but also lead to skin irritation and even injury. Be aware of the entire bandage's placement and the padding beneath, ensuring zero wrinkles or bumps. Your horse's leg injury needs the utmost wrapping care, and taking the time to ensure a smooth and comfortable bandage application is vital.

APPLYING A BANDAGE
So how exactly can you achieve a flawlessly wrapped bandage? First, start by laying the padding smoothly over the area you intend to wrap. Make sure it's evenly distributed and covers the entirety of your horse's leg. Then, carefully wrap the bandage around the leg, applying gentle pressure as you go. Check frequently for lumps or folds, smoothing them out as you continue wrapping.

Another tip to remember is to avoid wrapping too tightly, which can impede circulation and cause discomfort for your horse. Instead, aim for a snug but comfortable fit, ensuring the bandage won't slip or shift during exercise. Once you've finished wrapping, visually inspect the bandage for any irregularities before securing it in place.

In short, applying a smooth and adequately fitted bandage can make a world of difference to your horse's comfort. Remember to pay attention to every detail for the comfort of your equine companion. Happy bandaging! ... See MoreSee Less

BANDAGING -NO LUMPS, BUMPS, OR WRINKLES When it comes to bandaging your horses legs, its crucial to pay attention to every detail. Even the slightest wrinkle, fold, or lump in the bandage can cause discomfort for your equine companion. Imagine wearing socks and shoes and the sock has a crease in it. It will be incredibly uncomfortable to walk on. Improperly applied bandages can not only cause discomfort but also lead to skin irritation and even injury. Be aware of the entire bandages placement and the padding beneath, ensuring zero wrinkles or bumps. Your horses leg injury needs the utmost wrapping care, and taking the time to ensure a smooth and comfortable bandage application is vital. APPLYING A BANDAGE So how exactly can you achieve a flawlessly wrapped bandage? First, start by laying the padding smoothly over the area you intend to wrap. Make sure its evenly distributed and covers the entirety of your horses leg. Then, carefully wrap the bandage around the leg, applying gentle pressure as you go. Check frequently for lumps or folds, smoothing them out as you continue wrapping. Another tip to remember is to avoid wrapping too tightly, which can impede circulation and cause discomfort for your horse. Instead, aim for a snug but comfortable fit, ensuring the bandage wont slip or shift during exercise. Once youve finished wrapping, visually inspect the bandage for any irregularities before securing it in place. In short, applying a smooth and adequately fitted bandage can make a world of difference to your horses comfort. Remember to pay attention to every detail for the comfort of your equine companion. Happy bandaging!
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Your horse stood to still! Lol

Kathy Kloppe If you want t-shirt order for here.....👇👇👇 teefame.shop/20230602-232315?s=hanes-5250&c=White&p=FRONT

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