Ponies see the dentist

The ponies had a visit from the farrier a few weeks ago, now it’s the turn of the dentist.   Their teeth can grow sharp spikes if they are not worn down by munching on coarse food.   A domesticated diet doesn’t always prevent this and if their molars do become ragged, it is very painful.   The spikes cut into their mouth and make eating difficult.   This is one of the first things we look for when we take in a thin pony or one that is a slow feeder.

Horses need a dental examination at least every six months.   Our equine dentist is Sheree Lukas of Derbyshire Equine Smiles who provide dental care from foal to full grown.    Some ponies are very nervous about having a stranger look into their mouth, even more so when the rasp comes out.   It doesn’t hurt when their teeth are rasped smooth but it will feel a bit uncomfortable so a special head piece is used to make sure that the mouth stays open and the treatment can be done quickly.

Sheree (shown above) is kind and gentle and very reassuring to the ponies, Krystal doesn’t make a fuss, she knows that it will be soon over.    In a straightforward case it only takes a few minutes for Sheree to rasp any rough edges away and then it’s off with the ‘mouth-opener’ and a lot of fuss for Krystal for being brave.     While checking for roughness, Sheree will also look to see there are any other mouth problems and if the teeth are growing properly.   This is especially important with young horses, just like us, their mouths can become overcrowded.

Krystal’s mouth was fine after a bit of rasping.   One of the little ponies has some problem teeth and we have arranged another visit, we may have to get the vet to come too.    There are many symptoms of problem teeth and they don’t always seem obvious – horses sometimes shake their head a lot, there is a change in their feeding or drinking habits, they might start to dribble or just have a troubled expression.   Any discharge from the nose or mouth, bleeding or bumps on the face or jaw are a sign of problems.    Sometimes horses that rear have problems with their mouth – a metal bit and someone pulling on the reins must be agony if there is a ragged tooth or sore patch.

Our volunteers are on hand to give help and reassurance.   Nearly done Krystal and here’s a nice feed to make you feel better.

Please remember – don’t ever fasten horses to the gate, if they pull back it might come off its hinges with disastrous results.   Krystal’s lead rein is just loosely hooked over.   A quick release knot is the best way to tie up and to a metal ring is best.

Sheree Lukas can be contacted by phone:  07855 529268 or email:  derbyshirequinesmiles.co.uk, website:  DerbyshireEquineSmiles.co.uk

Thanks for helping us Sheree -see you in six months time.