Hello Missy,

Thank you for writing. The first thing I would do is have my vet xray your youngster's hocks to see if it is bone spavin. This is often irreversible though sometimes can be treated surgically.

In young horses, this disorder is typically caused by too rapid growth. So, it would be important to evaulate exactly what you're feeding her, the number of calories, along with the nutrient content. I can help you with this if you like through a personal phone visit.

In the meantime, I would eliminate cereal grain (oats, corn, wheat, barley, etc.) from her diet since this can cause osteopathic disorders. And, make sure she has all the hay and/or pasture she wants. A good vitamin/mineral supplement such as Accel (since you are already feeding flax?), or Glanzen Complete, which is flaxseed-meal based, would be good choices. And, additional lysine (Pure Lysine) may be appropriate depending on the level in your hay. I'm sorry I can't give you exact amounts without evaluating her situation closely, but this will certainly get you started on the right track.

All the best,

Dr. Getty

Where are you from? Bayfield, CO