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  Discussion on Arthritis? Long term use of Bute?
Author Message
New Member:
Chris88

Posted on Wednesday, Mar 8, 2006 - 3:46 pm:

History:
My pony is an approximately 20 year old mustang, 14 h, ~950 lbs, we live in the NE US. When I bought him 5 years ago he had a vet check and failed one of the hind flexion tests. I didn't do any additional testing though since he was sound.

I've been riding him 2 times a week for the past 5 years with no lameness (knock on wood). During the summer months we trail ride an additional one time a week. He's got great feet/legs (no shoes, farrier loves his feet) and has always been pretty healthy.

I recently changed trainers and began training in dressage. My pony has always been a bit short strided, fast tempo'ed and ornery. But then at his age, who wouldn't be, right? Anyway, this winter my trainer wondered if he might be feeling arthritic; she thought his stride seemed a little uneven and shorter on one side. She suggested trying bute to see if his stride or temperament was pain related.

So I began giving him 1 gram of bute 12 hours before our ride each time. Since I began this his stride has definitely lengthened and his attitude has improved. He's still a bit ornery but he seems much more willing to try.

I've considered calling the vet and trying to do a thorough diagnosis but I hesitate because, to be honest, I don't think they'll be able to tell me anything. He doesn't have swelling, he doesn't have heat, I'm not even sure he's "lame" or even favoring anything. Considering his age, I'm guessing x-rays are likely to show some radiographic changes in all joints. And my vet is so quick to medicate... Of course that's exactly what I'm doing but I'm not sure I want to get into injections, etc.

My Questions
1. Considering his age and the mildness of the symptoms do you think it's necessary to do an in-depth diagnosis? With blocking, x-rays and fluid interpretation?

2. Will long term (years and years) of 1 gram of bute two times a week cause colic or ulcers?

3. Should I consider using a joint supplement instead of bute?

Thanks,
Chris
Moderator:
DrO

Posted on Thursday, Mar 9, 2006 - 6:53 am:

Welcome Chris,
While I think your assessment could be right, there is one consideration I would have that should not be ignored. There may be a very mild founder going on. However you may be able to tell without a veterinary exam: if while off bute there is no improvement in gait while on soft vs hard ground you can figure founder unlikely. If the pony is considerably better on soft ground I would try to find out why, to prevent worsening symptoms.

We discuss the use of long term bute and the over the counter joint protective medications in the article into whose discussion you have posted. Be sure to follow the links from the article to your particular topics. The quickest way to get back to that article is by clicking on Arthritis and DJD: An Overview the navigation bar above.
DrO
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