Client Services
Lameness & Poor Performance
Pain in horses can manifest in subtle ways, such as a loss of suppleness, or more obvious signs like clear lameness. You may also notice changes in behavior—reluctance to be tacked up, resistance when ridden, or issues like bucking or rearing under saddle.
Our approach begins with a detailed history to gain a full understanding of the problem. This is followed by a comprehensive clinical examination and dynamic assessment, where we evaluate your horse at various gaits on both firm and soft surfaces. Based on the findings, we may proceed with diagnostic techniques such as nerve blocks, X-rays, or ultrasound imaging to pinpoint the underlying cause.
In most cases, this thorough diagnostic process can be conducted at your yard, thanks to our highly portable, state-of-the-art equipment. We also take a holistic view of your horse, considering factors such as management, conformation, farriery, and any additional issues that might contribute to the problem.
Pre-Purchase Examinations
Exmoor Equine Clinic offers comprehensive pre-purchase examinations for prospective buyers in the Southwest. These examinations adhere to the strict guidelines established by the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons (RCVS) and the Veterinary Defence Society (VDS). Depending on your needs and the animal’s intended use, you can choose between:
- Limited Two-Stage Examination: A detailed clinical assessment performed to assess the horse’s basic health and soundness. It involves a clinical examination at rest and an evaluation of the horse in motion to identify any obvious issues that might affect its suitability for the intended purpose.
- Comprehensive Five-Stage Examination: A thorough and systematic evaluation of the horse’s overall health, soundness, and suitability for its intended purpose. It includes a detailed clinical examination, observation of the horse at rest and in motion, exercise testing, a recovery assessment, and a final evaluation to identify potential health or performance issues.
The appropriate examination level is determined by factors such as the horse’s insurance valuation and your personal preferences.
Additional Services
Should you or your insurance provider require further investigation, additional procedures like X-rays can be incorporated into the examination process to ensure a thorough assessment.
Professional Reporting
After the examination, we provide detailed and professionally communicated findings to all prospective purchasers. Our reports (written and verbal) are crafted in clear, easy-to-understand language, ensuring you have all the necessary information to make an informed decision.
Equine Surgery
Starting in spring/summer 2025, Exmoor Equine Clinic will offer standing surgical procedures at our facility in West Anstey, conveniently located just off the North Devon Link Road. Until then, we can perform standing surgery or surgery under general anesthesia at a nearby clinic, ensuring timely care for your horse.
At Exmoor Equine Clinic, we can provide a complete diagnosis directly at your yard using advanced X-rays and ultrasonography. If surgery is required, we’ll arrange it promptly, eliminating the need for complicated referrals. Our streamlined approach ensures your horse receives the care it needs without unnecessary delays.
With continuity of care at the forefront, your horse will be looked after by our dedicated and experienced team throughout every step of their treatment journey. Contact us today to discuss your horse’s needs.
Rehabilitation
As a Diplomate in Equine Sports Medicine and Rehabilitation, Cajsa specialises in creating customised rehabilitation programs for horses recovering from injury, lameness, or surgery. Each program is carefully designed to suit the unique facilities of your yard, with a focus on minimizing the challenges of box rest. We understand how difficult prolonged confinement can be and aim to incorporate controlled movement into the recovery process as early as safely possible.
Starting in summer 2025, we plan to offer rehabilitation livery at our Equine Clinic in North Devon. This service provides a stress-free alternative, allowing you to rest assured that your horse’s rehabilitation and care are in expert hands. Our packages can also include chiropractic treatments for a comprehensive approach to recovery.
Contact us today to learn more about how we can support your horse’s rehabilitation journey.
Chiropractic Treatment
Chiropractic treatment involves precise and safe manipulations designed to restore proper movement to joints in the spine or other areas of the body that may be restricted or not functioning correctly.
By reactivating sensory input to the brain and nervous system from areas with abnormal movement, chiropractic care helps reestablish normal movement patterns and overall function.
This treatment works effectively alongside ongoing veterinary care, offering a complementary approach to your horse’s health and well-being.
Equine Dentistry
Hypsodont Teeth and Overgrowths
Horses have hypsodont teeth, meaning their teeth continuously erupt throughout their lives. Because the upper jaw is naturally wider than the lower jaw, uneven wear can lead to overgrowths if teeth are not regularly rasped.
Sharp Enamel Points
Overgrowths often develop sharp enamel points that can press into the horse’s cheeks, causing painful ulceration and bleeding. Regular rasping every 6–12 months prevents these issues, ensuring your horse remains comfortable and pain-free.
Diastema (Gaps Between Teeth)
As horses age, gaps (diastema) may form between teeth, trapping food and leading to gum inflammation (gingivitis) or tooth decay (caries). By widening these gaps through appropriate dental care, we can prevent this painful condition and maintain healthy gums.
Caries (Tooth Decay)
Horses are naturally designed to eat grass, but anatomical anomalies can allow food to collect in the infundibulum (enamel invagination within the tooth). This can lead to caries, weakening the tooth and potentially causing it to split, often necessitating removal. Restorative dentistry helps prevent decay, strengthens the tooth, and prolongs its lifespan.
General Equine Care
With over 15 years of experience, Cajsa offers expert examination and treatment for your horse right at your yard. From wounds and snotty noses to hoof abscesses and everything in between, we provide comprehensive care tailored to your horse’s needs.
To schedule a visit, please contact us directly or fill out the form on our website.
