Jonathan Wood Vets - Equine

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Jonathan Wood Vets - Equine 24/7 equine support for horses across Devon from an experienced veterinary practice.

Today is World Mental Health Day and this is something close to our hearts in the veterinary profession. We work in an i...
10/10/2026

Today is World Mental Health Day and this is something close to our hearts in the veterinary profession.

We work in an industry which is often misunderstood, as puppy and kitten cuddling. In all honesty it is a high pressure industry with one of the highest su***de rates.

So today and everyday we ask everyone be kind, think of others mental health and wellbeing, not just us as veterinary professionals, but for everyone - you never know what someone is dealing with. Treat others how you wish to be treated.

Don't forget this Monday is a Bank holiday - we will obviously be providing our 24hr emergency cover over the whole time...
27/08/2026

Don't forget this Monday is a Bank holiday - we will obviously be providing our 24hr emergency cover over the whole time.
But remember if you need any medications before next Wednesday you need to order them by 4pm today to ensure collection on Saturday.

Filled Legs in Horses: Understanding Lower Limb SwellingSwollen or “filled” legs are a common concern for many horse own...
17/08/2026

Filled Legs in Horses: Understanding Lower Limb Swelling

Swollen or “filled” legs are a common concern for many horse owners, but any unexplained change in your horse’s limbs is worth taking seriously.

While some horses may develop mild swelling after periods of reduced movement, filled legs can also be a sign of an underlying issue, including inflammation, injury, infection, or problems affecting circulation.

A veterinary assessment can help identify the cause and ensure any potential problems are addressed promptly, helping to protect your horse’s comfort, mobility and long-term health.

Could your horse be showing signs of Cushing's Disease (PPID)? PPID is a common condition in older horses and early test...
10/08/2026

Could your horse be showing signs of Cushing's Disease (PPID)?

PPID is a common condition in older horses and early testing can help identify the condition and support long-term health and wellbeing.

The ACTH blood test is the main way to diagnose PPID. A blood sample is analysed for ACTH levels, with raised levels indicating the possibility of the condition.

When should you test?
ACTH levels naturally fluctuate throughout the year, especially in summer and autumn. While autumn is often the recommended time for testing, horses showing signs of PPID or health changes can be tested year round.

If you’re concerned your horse may have PPID, please get in touch on 01363 772319 for advice and support.

Some noise during work can be normal, but it’s worth investigating if you notice:A wheeze, whistle, or high-pitched nois...
30/07/2026

Some noise during work can be normal, but it’s worth investigating if you notice:

A wheeze, whistle, or high-pitched noise that happens consistently in exercise.
Gurgling or “rattly” breathing.
Noisy breathing that is getting worse over time.
Reduced performance alongside the noise.
Any new or increased effort to breathe.

These signs can be linked to airway inflammation or conditions such as Equine Asthma, or other upper airway issues.

If you’re unsure, try filming your horse during exercise and share it with your vet, it can really help with assessment.

Early checks are always better than waiting for symptoms to progress.

Post-Competition Horse Check: What to MonitorAfter competition, a quick check can help catch early signs of strain or fa...
27/07/2026

Post-Competition Horse Check: What to Monitor

After competition, a quick check can help catch early signs of strain or fatigue.

Respiratory recovery – Breathing should return to normal fairly quickly after work. Persistent fast or laboured breathing may indicate overheating or stress.

Digital pulses – These should be faint at rest. Strong or bounding pulses can be an early sign of foot inflammation.

Appetite – Your horse should be keen to eat and drink. Reduced interest may suggest discomfort or dehydration.

Hydration – Check gums and overall energy. Tacky gums or dullness can indicate dehydration.

Soundness – Watch for stiffness, unevenness, or new lameness once cooled.

If anything persists or worsens, contact your vet early, small changes can matter.

Dry, hard going can increase concussion on limbs and lead to soreness, bruising and strain injuries, especially in horse...
24/07/2026

Dry, hard going can increase concussion on limbs and lead to soreness, bruising and strain injuries, especially in horses in regular work.

Top tips:
Avoid fast work/jumping on very hard surfaces.
Stick to even, well maintained ground.
Reduce workload intensity if needed.
Watch for shortness of stride or stiffness.
Check hooves for sensitivity.

If your horse feels “off” on hard ground, it’s worth getting them checked early, small changes can make a big difference.

A minor lameness or subtle discomfort doesn’t always stay isolated in a horse. Because they naturally compensate to avoi...
20/07/2026

A minor lameness or subtle discomfort doesn’t always stay isolated in a horse. Because they naturally compensate to avoid pain, one issue can quickly lead to a chain reaction elsewhere in the body.

For example, a mild hindlimb problem may cause a horse to shift weight and change how they move. Over time, this compensation can place extra strain on other areas, leading to secondary issues such as back pain, front limb overload, or muscle strain.

This is why early investigation is so important. Treating the root cause, not just the visible symptoms, helps prevent ongoing compensatory injury and supports a full recovery

Happy I Love Horses Day – 15th JulyToday is a chance to recognise the horses who play such an important role in our live...
15/07/2026

Happy I Love Horses Day – 15th July

Today is a chance to recognise the horses who play such an important role in our lives and work.
As as veterinary professionals, we are privileged to care for horses every day. They are remarkable animals, intelligent, sensitive and powerful. Many of us are drawn to this profession because of a genuine respect for them, which only deepens over time through every examination, treatment and recovery we are part of.
There is real satisfaction in helping a horse feel more comfortable, return to work, or simply enjoy their field again. Their wellbeing is always at the centre of what we do.

To horse owners, thank you for trusting us with the horses you love so much. Today is a reminder of why that trust matters.

Wishing all horses good health, comfort and care.

Myth Busting: “If a horse is eating, it can’t have dental pain”Not true! Horses are experts at hiding discomfort and wil...
13/07/2026

Myth Busting: “If a horse is eating, it can’t have dental pain”

Not true! Horses are experts at hiding discomfort and will often keep eating even with significant dental issues.

Signs of underlying dental pain can include: • Quidding (dropping feed) • Slow or selective eating • Behaviour changes when ridden or bitted • Weight loss or poor condition

Regular dental checks (every 6–12 months) help catch issues early, before they affect comfort or performance.

Eating doesn’t always mean eating comfortably.

Address

Roysden, Barnstaple Cross
Crediton
EX172EP

Telephone

+441363772319

Website

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