What Is a Digital Pulse?
The digital pulse is your horse’s pulse felt near the hoof. An artery runs down your horse’s leg into the hoof. Checking your horse’s digital pulse is an excellent way to catch problems before they progress. You may struggle to find the digital pulse if your horse is healthy with no underlying issues.
Why Should You Check Your Horse’s Digital Pulse?
Considering that his feet are one of his most important body parts, you should always concern yourself with the health of your horse’s hooves. Horses prone to swelling, especially those who suffer from Cushing’s disease, should have their digital pulse checked regularly.
How To Find the Digital Pulse
Fetlock- Squat or sit on a stool beside your horse’s leg.
- Place your index finger on the side of the fetlock joint.
- Push gently on the joint and move your finger from side to side. You will eventually feel a strong bundle move.
Pastern
- Squat or sit on a stool beside your horse’s leg.
- Place your index finger midway down the pastern (three fingers above the coronary band).
- Push gently and move your finger from side to side. You will eventually feel a strong bundle move.
How To Check the Digital Pulse
Check the pulse of this bundle just as you would your own. Apply pressure to the bundle for a few seconds to feel the pulse. It is possible to push too hard and cut off blood flow. However, too gentle pressure will not allow you to feel the pulse properly.
Why Might Your Horse Have an Increased Digital Pulse?
You will want to check your horse’s digital pulse regularly to assess the health of your horse. If the digital pulse is strong, it tells you that your horse is experiencing inflammation. Inflammation is usually not a stand-alone symptom. It is typically an indicator of a more serious issue.
Another concern that arises from a strong digital pulse is a blockage of blood flow.
A strong digital pulse can also indicate infection or injury. Abscesses and bruises may go unfound without this check. If your horse is experiencing hoof tenderness and a strong digital pulse, it can indicate laminitis.
Benefab Therapeutic Smart Quickwraps are an excellent product to help increase circulation to reduce inflammation throughout the lower leg and hoof. Magnets target tendons, ligaments, and joints to alleviate pressure.
FAQ:
What should a horse’s digital pulse be?
The resting heart rate for a horse is approximately 40 beats per minute. Many factors, such as exercise or fear, will raise this rate. However, disease is one of the most concerning causes of an increased heart rate.
Does a digital pulse mean laminitis?
A strong digital pulse in your horse does not necessarily indicate laminitis. However, with other symptoms such as hoof tenderness, warm feet, and painful gait, the strong digital pulse is a good indicator.
How do I check my digital pulse for laminitis?
Checking the digital pulse for laminitis is no different than checking in when your horse is healthy. Inspect your horse’s legs for inflammation and gently feel the pulse along the vascular bundle in the fetlock.
