Trim or put shoes on
Hoof Care Normally, hoof care involves farrier visits every four to eight weeks, but for a neglected horse unique issues can require special measures with shorter schedules. It is imperative that we work closely with a credible farrier, especially to address the special needs of neglected horses with little previous care. Radiographs of all hooves may be needed to detect any internal damage and to create a plan to address angles and trims. Note that neglected horses must have enough weight to stand for farrier care (readiness can be determined by your farrier). Neglected horses will need a long-term program for hoof care. Since the hoof capsule regenerates, a healthy hoof can be grown in less than a year if proper nutrition and veterinary care are provided.
Buy new halter and Lead
Size for blanket
Vaccinations. Frequently, the medical history of neglected horses is unknown, and previous deworming information and vaccination records are unavailable. Working with the veterinarian, the horse can be vaccinated for endemic diseases in your geographic area. There are five core vaccines (from the American Association of Equine Practitioners) that will most likely be administered: Tetanus, West Nile Virus, Eastern and Western Equine Encephalomyelitis and Rabies. The vaccines should be spread over several days to avoid overwhelming the horse’s system, especially in neglected horses, as most often have a heavy parasite burden and compromised immune system. It is also normal for neglected horses to receive primary doses (two doses spread several weeks apart) of the vaccines as an added precaution.
Buy new brushes if the horse has mud fungus / Scrub entire body with shampoo
Pull mane and trim face
Get video / photos to update on progress and update profile online
Determine what nutrients’ the horse is lacking and get needed supplements
Continue on quarantine round pen or stall depending on season
Determine brand of feed or just hay product changes
Deworming. Once the horse has enough weight and body condition to be dewormed work with the vet for a larvicidal treatment controlling strongyles, roundworms and pinworms may be used. After four weeks, ivermectin or moxidectin may be administered. The veterinarian should also create a parasite control program (often this will utilize tools such as fecal egg counts to optimize dewormers). If the veterinarian suspects heavy parasite infestation, particularly with roundworms in young horses, a reduced dose may be considered for the first deworming. This can reduce the risk of intestinal blockage.