Colic REACT
The British Horse Society teamed up with The University of Nottingham to create the ‘REACT Now to Beat Colic’ campaign, helping horse owners combat the life-threatening condition of colic. Agnew Equine are proud to be a Vet REACT Champion practice.
Colic is the term used to describe clinical signs of abdominal pain or discomfort in horses and accounts for one in three emergency vet call outs. Recognising the earlier signs of colic means veterinary treatment can start sooner. Most cases can be resolved relatively quickly with appropriate treatment, but some will be critical with potentially severe consequences. Conditions that affect the blood supply to the intestine become a race against time, and the earlier the problem is recognised and treated, the better the chance of survival.
Are you ready to R-E-A-C-T?
Horse owners, or the main person responsible for the care of horses, play a vital role in recognising the early signs of colic. Colic cases can quickly deteriorate so early recognition and prompt veterinary attention is vital to increase the chance of recovery for the horse. If you notice any change in your horse’s behaviour or your horse is showing signs of distress, think REACT and contact us right away:
R – Restless or Agitated?
E – Eating Less or Droppings Reduced
A – Abdominal Pain
C – Clinical Changes
T – Tired or Lethargic
Would you know what to do if your horse needed to be referred to an equine hospital? Would the cost of the hospital treatment and/or surgery be covered by your insurance? If the yard manager can’t contact you, do they know what you would want to happen to your horse? Have you got transport or details of 24/7 transport companies? Would you refer your horse or would you decide euthanasia? It is important to make an informed decision now, rather than a panicked, emotional decision which could cause you to question your choices in retrospect.
We are here for any questions you may have, and available 24-7 to attend to any colic emergencies on 01782 510 502.
