Frequently Asked Questions

We provide a comprehensive range of equine veterinary services, including preventive care, internal medicine, field surgery, chiropractic care, body lameness evaluation, and advanced lameness diagnostics. We also offer a state-of-the-art haul-in facility for horses requiring personalized, overnight care.

Our practice combines traditional veterinary practices with advanced technology and techniques to deliver the highest quality care. We emphasize a compassionate, whole-horse approach, focusing on both the physical and emotional well-being of your horse. Our highly trained team is committed to exceptional communication, reliability, and thoroughness in every aspect of care.

Yes, we understand that emergencies can happen at any time. Hoofbeats Equine Service provides emergency care for our patients. Please contact us immediately if you have an urgent situation, and we will guide you on the next steps.

Our Otto service allows you to stay connected with your horse’s care, no matter where you are. Through the app, you can receive real-time updates on your horse’s treatment, progress, and daily care, ensuring you’re always informed and involved.

Our haul-in facility is a specialized, state-of-the-art center designed for horses that require more personalized and intensive care. Equipped with stocks, temperature-controlled stalls, in-house blood work machines, and isolation stalls, it is ideal for cases that need close supervision, overnight care, or advanced treatments.

Yes, preventive care is a cornerstone of our practice. We develop customized wellness plans tailored to each horse’s unique needs, focusing on promoting long-term health and preventing potential issues before they arise.

You can schedule an appointment by contacting our office directly via phone or email. For non-emergency cases, we also offer scheduling through our website. If you have specific concerns, please let us know so we can tailor the visit to your horse’s needs.

With years of experience in sports medicine, Dr. Ashman came to the realization that leg lameness is often secondary to a problem higher up. After researching body lameness with very little luck, Dr. Ashman finally discovered Dr.’s Audrey DeClue and Kate Workman. Since finding them, Dr. Ashman has dedicated her professional life to studying under her colleagues and learning what they have discovered in relation to body lameness. As a result, Dr. Ashman, using a whole horse approach, has successfully treated sleep deprivation, head shakers, chronic suspensory horses, chronic back pain, shoulder dysfunction with wither pain, and many behavioral horses.

Signs of body lameness may include changes in your horse’s movement, such as reluctance to work, stiffness, uneven gait, or discomfort when being saddled or handled. Observing unusual behavior or signs of pain can also indicate body lameness.

Addressing body lameness is crucial because it can affect your horse’s overall comfort, performance, and quality of life. Untreated body lameness can lead to further complications and chronic pain, impacting your horse’s well-being and ability to perform.

Diagnosis of body lameness involves a thorough examination by a veterinarian. This may include a physical assessment, evaluation of movement, and diagnostic techniques such as palpation, imaging, and specialized tests to identify the source of discomfort.

Treatment options for body lameness may include chiropractic adjustments, physical therapy, targeted rehabilitation exercises, and possibly medication or therapeutic modalities. The specific treatment plan depends on the underlying cause and severity of the lameness.

At Hoofbeats Equine Service, we specialize in diagnosing and treating body lameness through a comprehensive approach. Our services include detailed evaluations, and chiropractic care, to develop a tailored treatment plan for your horse.

Chiropractic care helps address misalignments or dysfunctions in the spine and other body structures that may contribute to body lameness. By correcting these issues, chiropractic adjustments can relieve pain, improve mobility, and enhance overall function.

The time required to see improvement varies depending on the severity of the condition and the treatment approach. Some horses may show significant improvement within a few weeks, while others may require a longer period of treatment and rehabilitation.

Preventive measures for body lameness include regular veterinary check-ups, maintaining proper saddle fit, ensuring balanced nutrition, and incorporating routine exercise and conditioning. Addressing any signs of discomfort early can also help prevent more serious issues.

To schedule an evaluation for body lameness, please contact us at 804-561-5590 or email hoofbeatsequineservice@tds.net. Our team will arrange a comprehensive assessment to determine the best course of action for your horse.