Pastern Problem

RBS1977 · Apr 4, 2014

When calf is tied up he is constantly rocking back and forth on rear feet. Weight switches from right to left every few seconds. Never seen anything like it. Calf has no issues walking just standing. Seems like he is in pain. Any suggestions?

Mainevent · Apr 4, 2014

May have arthritis had a calf that did the same thing and that's what vet said was wrong.

Westtexas1005 · Apr 4, 2014

Have had the same problem too, it does sound like arthritis as ME said, there are a lot of supplements out there that can be top dressed on feed that can be fed and really help. I have all my kids that fee use equex it is a joint supplement for horses but really does work. Also I give a shot of glucosamine every 30 days for good measure.

vc · Apr 4, 2014

What does he do when he is loose and standing, is this with his head up or just tied where he can stand or lay down?

RBS1977 · Apr 4, 2014

vc said:
What does he do when he is loose and standing, is this with his head up or just tied where he can stand or lay down?

Watched him while he ate this morning and he did the same thing. Was not tied.

rackranch · Apr 4, 2014

I would not worry about it unless he starts to develop other symptoms. I've seen them do it before. Especially when eating.

cowman 52 · Apr 4, 2014

Had several of these a few years back, from your description, bet the calf is a little straight on the back legs, feet might be a little small in relation to bone, hips really square and wide, stride not quite long enough? If I'm close, he rocks to take the pain off one foot, then the other, probably hurts as long as he is on something with a more solid footing. Home in the grass or soft lot not much problem.
We found that not trimming the feet too close, not getting them too much up on their toes, don't shrink the hoof diameter when trimming helps, starting on aspirin about a week before a show, two to start, and one every 30 hrs or so will ease the symptoms some. Is there any chance of a little founder? Does standing in water or mud change the symptoms?

Telos · Apr 4, 2014

cowman 52 said:
Had several of these a few years back, from your description, bet the calf is a little straight on the back legs, feet might be a little small in relation to bone, hips really square and wide, stride not quite long enough? If I'm close, he rocks to take the pain off one foot, then the other, probably hurts as long as he is on something with a more solid footing. Home in the grass or soft lot not much problem.
We found that not trimming the feet too close, not getting them too much up on their toes, don't shrink the hoof diameter when trimming helps, starting on aspirin about a week before a show, two to start, and one every 30 hrs or so will ease the symptoms some. Is there any chance of a little founder? Does standing in water or mud change the symptoms?

Great description of what we should not be selecting for in a breeding program. I see too many that fit into this category.

Pastern Problem

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