Equine Medicine & Surgery

Horses can encounter health issues just as any other type of pet can. Fortunately, the great majority of these issues can be prevented through regular wellness care, or they can be treated by a veterinarian with proper training and expertise in equine health. Horse owners will be pleased to know that Azalea Lakes Veterinary Clinic can provide the necessary care for their horses.

Vaccinations for horses provide essential protection. Every mammal comes into contact with potentially dangerous viruses and bacterial infections in the course of daily life, and horses are no different. This makes vaccinations a critical component of a comprehensive horse wellness plan.  There are many vaccinations for horses, some of which are considered essential for all horses (core), while others are recommended depending on the individual horse and his or her lifestyle (non-core). The American Association of Equine Practitioners recommends that all horses receive vaccinations against Rabies, Tetanus, West Nile Virus, and Eastern/Western Equine Encephalitis. These are high-risk pathogens that are common throughout the country and have a high rate of infection and are very often deadly—which is why vaccinations against these diseases are considered “core” or essential for every horse.

In the state of Louisiana annual Coggin’s test and permanent ID (microchip or tattoo) are required for all horses.  Also all horses require health certificates for travel.

Horses usually need a dental checkup every six to twelve months to have their teeth floated (evened out) in order for the horse’s bite to remain healthy, and so that their food is evenly ground for healthy swallowing and digestion.

Equine Surgeries offered:  Castrations, Laceration Repairs, Mass Removals