Equine Internal Medicine in Palm City, FL
Our equine patients at Harbour Ridge Equine benefit from an extensive range of diagnostic and treatment services for a variety of medical conditions. These include issues related to the respiratory and gastrointestinal systems, endocrinology, and neurology. Using advanced tools such as video gastroscopy, abdominal ultrasound, upper airway endoscopy, and digital radiography, our veterinarians work to find answers and create effective treatment plans for your horse.
request an appointmentInternal Medicine Services
For a full list of our internal medicine services, please see below.
Gastrointestinal: Video Gastroscopy, Abdominal Ultrasound, Abdominocentesis
Respiratory: Upper Airway Endoscopy, Ultrasound, Trans Tracheal Wash, Bronchoalveolar Lavage
Neurology: Thorough Neurologic Exam, Digital Radiology, Serum/CSF testing
Endocrinology: Physical Examination, Glucose, T4, ACTH, Insulin, and TRH Stimulation testing
Gastrointestinal Health
Gastric ulcers, weight loss, recurrent colic, and diarrhea are common gastrointestinal concerns in horses. Video gastroscopy lets us look directly inside the stomach to diagnose ulcers, while abdominal ultrasound and abdominocentesis help us evaluate the intestines and abdominal fluid.
Respiratory, Neurologic and Endocrine Care
A persistent cough, nasal discharge, or exercise intolerance may signal a respiratory problem. Upper airway endoscopy, ultrasound, trans tracheal washes, and bronchoalveolar lavage help us identify infections, inflammatory airway disease, and other conditions, and endoscopy also supports our sports medicine evaluations.
Incoordination, weakness, or changes in behavior call for a thorough neurologic exam, with digital radiology and serum or cerebrospinal fluid testing as needed. Endocrine testing for PPID (Cushing’s disease) and insulin dysregulation is especially important because these conditions are closely linked to laminitis.
Hospitalization and Ongoing Care
When your horse needs close monitoring, our air-conditioned clinic and stabling allow our team to deliver treatment and track progress under one roof. Many internal medicine concerns can also be caught early through routine preventative medicine visits and annual bloodwork.
Equine Internal Medicine FAQs
How can you tell whether my horse might have gastric ulcers?
We can discuss your horse’s symptoms and history, then determine whether a gastroscopy is appropriate. Gastroscopy allows us to look inside the stomach for ulcers.
What testing is available if my horse has a persistent cough or poor performance?
The appropriate tests depend on your horse’s examination and history. Our diagnostic options include upper airway endoscopy, ultrasound, and airway sampling.
What are the signs of Cushing’s disease (PPID) in horses?
Common signs include a long or curly coat that does not shed normally, muscle loss, increased drinking and urination, recurrent infections, and laminitis. ACTH and TRH stimulation testing can help confirm a diagnosis.
Why would my horse need endocrine testing?
Endocrine testing helps identify conditions such as PPID and insulin dysregulation, which can increase the risk of laminitis. Early diagnosis allows us to manage these conditions with medication, diet, and exercise.
What signs could mean my horse has a neurologic problem?
Stumbling, incoordination, weakness, head tilt, or unusual behavior can signal a neurologic issue. Contact us promptly so we can perform a thorough neurologic exam.
Can my horse be hospitalized at your clinic?
Yes. Our air-conditioned barn has stalls for horses that need monitoring and ongoing treatment. Call us to discuss your horse’s needs.
Find Answers for Your Horse’s Health Concerns
If your horse is losing weight, coughing, or just not themselves, call Harbour Ridge Equine at (561) 744-9026 to schedule an internal medicine exam.