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Dental disease in geriatric horses
1Department of Large Animal Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Georgia, Athens, USA.
The Veterinary Clinics of North America. Equine Practice
|September 22, 1998
Summary
Effective geriatric horse dental care requires realistic owner expectations and clear communication with veterinarians. Understanding potential complications and ongoing costs is crucial for successful treatment outcomes.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Medicine
- Equine Dentistry
- Geriatric Animal Care
Background:
- Geriatric horses present unique dental challenges.
- Owners often have unrealistic expectations regarding long-term dental neglect.
- Poor communication can lead to owner dissatisfaction.
Purpose of the Study:
- To emphasize the importance of owner-practitioner communication in geriatric equine dental procedures.
- To highlight the need for realistic owner expectations.
- To inform owners about potential complications and ongoing care requirements.
Main Methods:
- This study is a review of best practices in equine dental management.
- It focuses on communication strategies and owner education.
- Case examples illustrate potential complications and treatment needs.
Main Results:
- Clear communication is essential before initiating any dental procedure in geriatric horses.
- Owners must understand that long-term neglect cannot be fully corrected instantly.
- Potential complications like step mouth and the need for frequent follow-ups must be discussed.
Conclusions:
- Successful geriatric equine dental management hinges on informed owners and clear communication.
- Owners must be prepared for potential complications, extended care, and additional maintenance costs.
- Proactive owner education is key to managing expectations and ensuring horse welfare.