Equine Specialty Hospital

05/20/2026

05/07/2026

Have you ever dealt with a puncture wound to the hoof??

Puncture wounds in the foot qualify as medical emergencies, due to the number of vital structures just beneath the sole that can be physically damaged and/or contaminated with bacteria when they are penetrated by a sharp object.

If your horse steps on a nail or other sharp object and it remains embedded in the hoof, resist the temptation to pull the nail out and consult with your veterinarian first. Leaving the nail in place will allow the vet to take x-rays of the foot before removal, which helps to identify exactly what structures have been penetrated, and to plan the most appropriate strategy for dealing with the situation.

If your veterinarian advises, carefully remove the nail to prevent the horse from stepping on it and driving it deeper into the hoof cavity. As you remove it, be sure to mark the exact point and depth of entry with tape and/or a marker so the veterinarian can assess the extent of damage. Apply antiseptic to the wound and wrap to prevent additional contamination while you wait for your appointment.

Penetrating hoof wounds can be extremely serious and shouldn’t be underestimated. The prognosis for successful recovery depends on quick action to identify the path of the nail, treatment of potential infection and mechanical damage to the foot, and proper aftercare.

As always, consult your horse doctor for more information and advice!

05/06/2026

🐴🌻 Vaccination Season is Here!🌻🐴

As the weather warms up and horses begin spending more time outside, traveling, and interacting with other horses, now is the perfect time to schedule your horse’s spring appointment and make sure they’re protected against preventable diseases. Keeping vaccinations current helps protect your horse’s health and the horses around them.

Spring is the ideal time to get your horse up to date on core and risk-based vaccines, boosters, and wellness care.

At Equine Specialty Hospital, we offer haul-in appointments in a safe, controlled, low-stress environment with professional handling and proper vaccine storage/administration.

🐴 Spring is the ideal time to make the most of your visit by adding essential routine care:

✔️ F***l Testing & Deworming
Target parasites with a customized plan that protects your horse and pasture.

✔️ Dental Floating
Improve comfort, chewing, and digestion while preventing painful sharp points.

✔️ Sheath Cleaning
Helps reduce risk of infection and keeps geldings and stallions comfortable.

✔️ Wellness Discussion
Talk with our team about your horse’s overall health and preventative care plan.

⏰ Most add-ons can be completed during your scheduled visit—ask us how long your appointment will take!

💲 Call for pricing or bundle options

05/01/2026

04/26/2026

Do you think your horse may have ulcers? The Equine Specialty Hospital can do a gastroscopy and scope your horse to determine that.

🐴 Glandular vs. Squamous Ulcers: What’s the Difference?

Gastric ulcers are one of the most common health concerns in horses, affecting up to 93% of some populations. However, not all ulcers develop the same way.

Squamous ulcers form in the upper portion of the stomach, which has limited protection against acid. These ulcers are often associated with management factors such as high grain intake, low forage availability, and periods without feed. 🌾

Glandular ulcers occur in the lower portion of the stomach, where protective mechanisms normally defend against acid. These ulcers are more complex and are often linked to breakdowns in these defenses, with risk factors including stress, illness, NSAID use, and disruptions to normal gastric function.

Because these ulcer types have different causes, they may also require different management and treatment approaches. Supporting stomach health starts with:
• Consistent access to forage
• Minimizing starch and large concentrate meals
• Reducing stress and supporting routine
• Working with your veterinarian for proper diagnosis

Signs such as poor performance, weight loss, changes in behavior, or mild recurrent colic should be evaluated to determine the underlying cause.

📖 Learn more here:
🇺🇸 https://madbarn.com/squamous-vs-glandular-ulcers-in-horses/
🇨🇦 https://madbarn.ca/squamous-vs-glandular-ulcers-in-horses/

04/07/2026

🐴🍀Attention 4-H friends and family, this one is for you!
Ever wondered what goes on inside a horse hospital? Now’s your chance to find out!
A tour of the Equine Specialty Hospital is a great opportunity to learn more about equine veterinary care, ask questions, and see our facility in action up close.
If your 4-H club is interested in scheduling a visit, please have your advisor reach out to us at (440) 834-0811 or [email protected]
We look forward to hearing from you!🐴🐎🍀

03/23/2026

We wanted to let you know that Dr. Patton is moving to North Carolina to be closer to her family and will be leaving the Equine Specialty Hospital on March 27th.
She has done an amazing job at the hospital and will certainly be missed. We appreciate her dedication and the care that she has provided over the last 3 years to both clients and patients.
We are excited for her and her husband, but will be certainly be missed.
We are committed to ensuring a smooth transition until a new doctor is hired and will be happy to assist you with scheduling appointments or any questions you may have.

03/16/2026

We had some very talented artists at our booth at WNY Equifest this weekend!

03/16/2026

Dr. Milligan is helping train the next generation of veterinarians at WNY Equifest

03/14/2026

Are you going to WNY Equifest this weekend? If so, stop by the Equine Specialty Hospital booth and say hello.