We've all heard the saying "healthy as a horse," but any experienced horse owner knows this phrase might be the furthest thing from the truth! One of the best ways to monitor your horse's health is by regularly checking their vitals to learn what is normal. Understanding how to accurately take and interpret their vital signs can help you detect early signs of illness and seek veterinary care if necessary. Genetic testing with Etalon Equine Genetics allows you to go the extra mile in connecting your horse's DNA insights to vital sign monitoring, further empowering you to catch early warning signs for any health risks or conditions to which your horse may be genetically predisposed. In this guide, we'll walk you through the steps to measure your horse's vital signs including temperature, pulse, respiration, and hydration.

1. Temperature

Why It's Important

A horse's normal body temperature ranges from 99°F to 101°F (37.2°C to 38.3°C). Fever can be an early indicator of infection or illness.

How to Measure

Equipment Needed: A digital rectal thermometer (preferably a veterinary-specific model).

Procedure:

1. Ensure the thermometer is clean and disinfected. Apply a lubricant (e.g., petroleum jelly) to the tip.
2. Stand safely to the side of your horse's hindquarters. Gently lift their tail.
3. Carefully insert the thermometer into the rectum, aiming slightly upwards. Wait for the thermometer to beep, indicating it has registered the temperature.
4. Remove the thermometer and read the display. Clean and disinfect the thermometer after each use.

2. Pulse

Why It's Important

A horse's normal resting heart rate is between 28 and 44 beats per minute (bpm). An elevated heart rate can indicate pain, stress, or illness.

How to Measure

Equipment Needed: A stethoscope.

Procedure:

1. Place the stethoscope on the left side of the horse's chest, just behind the elbow.
2. Listen for the "lub-dub" sound of the heartbeat. Count the beats for 15 seconds and multiply by 4 to get the bpm.

3. Respiration

Why It's Important

A normal respiration rate for a horse at rest is between 10 and 24 breaths per minute. Changes in respiration can indicate respiratory distress or other health issues.

How to Measure

Procedure:

• Observation:

1. Stand to the side of your horse and watch the movement of the flanks (the area between the ribs and hind legs).
2. Count each breath (inhalation + exhalation) for 30 seconds and multiply by 2 to get the breaths per minute.

• Using a Stethoscope:

1. Place the stethoscope on the trachea or chest and listen for breaths.
2. Count for 30 seconds and multiply by 2.

4. Mucous Membrane Color and Capillary Refill Time

Why It's Important

The color of your horse's mucous membranes (gums) and the capillary refill time (CRT) can provide vital information about circulation and hydration.

How to Measure

Procedure:

• Mucous Membrane Color:

1. Lift your horse's upper lip to examine the gums. Healthy gums should be pink and moist.

• Capillary Refill Time (CRT):

1. Press your thumb firmly on the gums for a couple of seconds and release. Observe the time it takes for the color to return to the pressed area. Normal CRT is 1-2 seconds.

The Link Between DNA Testing and Equine Vital Signs

Some horses are genetically predisposed to having certain health conditions and/or having a higher risk of developing others. Etalon Equine Genetics' horse health DNA panels offer invaluable insights into your horse’s unique predispositions, identifying the potential health risks and conditions that may affect their well-being. In terms of the “good, better, best” model, we’d recommend our Essentials, Standard, and Pro packages to learn about your horse’s genetic health risks and conditions.

Our Essentials Package offers comprehensive DNA testing for the most commonly assessed genetic conditions found in Stock, Quarter Horse, Appaloosa, and Paint breeds. Our Standard Package goes a few steps further providing genetic testing for the most common coat colors, essential health conditions, and contains our signature performance panel. And finally, our Pro Package includes comprehensive DNA testing for all coat colors, health conditions, and risks, including Kissing Spines Susceptibility. It also features the performance panel, including height prediction.

By understanding your horse's genetic makeup, you can take proactive steps such as monitoring relevant vital signs and symptoms, allowing for early detection and intervention. This knowledge not only helps in preventing serious health issues but also empowers you to tailor your care and training programs to suit your horse's individual needs down to their DNA.

Conclusion

Regularly checking your horse's vitals is an important aspect of equine care and horse ownership, whether you are establishing a baseline while they are healthy or checking in on them when they are sick. By understanding how to measure and interpret these signs, you can ensure your horse remains healthy and receives veterinary attention as soon as possible if it is needed. Always consult your veterinarian if you notice any abnormalities or have concerns about your horse's health.