Swollen leg

My tw's left hind leg is swollen right above his fetlock joint....i believe the cannon bone.Hes notl imping or acting in pain what so ever but I was just wondering if you had any suggestions to get the swelling down.Its warm also.I had run cold water on it for a little but the swelling has not gone down and its on the third day. So any suggestions would help. thanks

I'd really recommend to check for hidden scratches or cuts. If there is no hidden scratch try DMSO. Are you sure it's not the bite allergy? (my horse gets horrible swelling on skin after bites - not sure fly or bee one).

My father and I have developed a new Mineral supplement and we were just alerted to the fact that DMSO (which is in our product in minute amount) is a detectable banned therapeutic substance in the Horse racing industry. We are trying to find out information on the life of the substance in the horse body and the minimum detectable and illegal amount. Any help would be appreciated.

Is this horse stalled or out in a pasture? Are there other horses pastured with him if he's out? Is he lethargic or showing any signs of being "off"? Have you checked his temperature? Is the swelling smooth or does it have little "pock marks" in it? All of these are things you need to take note of.

It is possible if your horse is stalled that you are dealing with stocking up which resolves with work or turnout. If he is out in the pasture, I would look carefully at the leg for any small wounds, etc. You may be dealing with a blunt truama injury or an infection. If the swelling has continued for 3 days with no improvement, then I would have the vet out.

Cindy D.
Registered Veterinary Technician