CORONATION
Special
EQUINE EMERGENCY SERIES
A HORSE struggling to breathe is very alarming. The problem can seem to happen very suddenly and is often characterised by one or more of the following signs:
• Laboured or rapid breathing while at rest (usually anything over 20 breaths per minute would be considered elevated)
• Flared nostrils
• Persistent coughing
• Noise such as grunting associated with breathing
• Headshaking or abnormally low or extended head carriage
By the time a horse shows any of these signs it is likely to be distressed and may be in need of veterinary intervention to help it breathe more normally. A phone call to your vet will enable you to describe exactly what your horse is doing, and your vet can then advise you on whether they feel a visit may be necessary.
Often a prompt visit and some medication can prevent cases from deteriorating dramatically. The horse will respond to
