The Diagnosis is In: He Has Ringbone

I'm like, devastated right now. My perfect horse that I've had less than a month is now dead lame. After a bunch of flexion tests, trotting back and forth and $800 worth of x-rays, the vet has determined that he has ringbone. He recommended trying a daily regimen of low-dose bute before going to more drastic measures. This is breaking my heart. I don't know if I can afford what it's going to take to keep him sound.

If anyone has any experience with ringbone or has any advice, please share.

I'm sorry to hear this. You said in another thread that this same vet did the PPE, how did they not catch this only a month ago?

Did you get him from a private seller or a rescue?

I got him from a private seller. I truly believe that she did not know he had ringbone as she is 100% willing to take him back and refund the purchase price if I decide I can't afford to treat him.

As far as a PPE, at the time, he was showing no signs of lameness. I just had a basic exam done. No xrays or anything, so there really was no sign that something might be wrong. I don't understand how all of a sudden it's just BAM there.

Well that is a very nice seller. I don't know a whole lot about ringbone so I'm curious to this as well. I'm guessing since it was a basic exam no flexion tests were done at ppe? At least you have one of the best vets around for this issue.

My first horse got ring bone the bute work for a long time he had it in both front feet I did not ride mine after he got it but it was great to hand walk he and play with before he was in to much pain and I let he go

I know there is a surgery that can cure it, but I'm guessing that's so far out of my price range there's no reason to even consider it. He said corrective shoeing to ease the breakover is usually pretty effective.

I honestly don't remember. But yes, Dr. Sheely is awesome. I trust him to do whatever he can to help us out.

I'm so sorry that you and your horse are going through this. The seller is being very generous and it shows that both you and the seller truly care for his well being.

I don't know too much about ringbone, but I've heard a Cetyl-M for horses has worked in cases or ringbone and severe arthritis. I also wonder if a farrier specializing in lameness issues could help.

Good luck to both of you!

Sorry to post again, but you might find that surgery could be more affordable than you think. Around me, there's a vet school and it's a lot cheaper to get surgery done there than at a regular equine vet (they do a really good job).

Personally, I would try to go for alternative treatments before surgery, but it's good to know that there may be something else that could help him :)

Yes, don't forget about the Uof M. They have a very good equine program. I believe your vet should know more about it, ask them.