AboutShelley Evans Expertise I would be happy to respond to enquiries in the following disciplines: dressage, working western, hunter, halter (open and IAHA), hack and pleasure. I can also offer assistance with schooling and equitation issues.
Experience Twenty years Class A show circuit including multiple championships.
Organizations CEF, IAHA, BCHC, IALHA
Publications Inside International
Education/Credentials BA, MEd, Teaching Certificate (PDP), CEF Western Level I Coach, provincialy approved Hack, Equitation and Western Judge.
Question What is calcium deposits in a horses ankles, and can it hurt them?
Answer Dear Leona,
The short answer to your question is, "yes." Calcification in a joint or calcium deposits in the joint may ultimately lead to fusing of the joint can also cause cartilage damage and lead to arthritis (OCD). Sometime this type of condition can be managed with supplements like Legend or by joint injections (administered by a vet)of cortisone, hyarulonic acid or a combination of the two. Ultimately though- this is simply management and not a cure.
This is not a "death sentence" and many horses can continue to be serviceably sound on maintenance programs for many years. If, however, this is a horse you are looking at to buy- I wouldn't.
Sincerely,
S. Evans
