Bog Spavin

By: Dr. Lydia Gray

What is it?

Bog spavin is a cosmetic blemish of the hock area that is similar in appearance to windpuffs and thoroughpin. Specifically,  fluid swelling of one of the joint capsules of the jock causes the hock joint to appear swollen. This swelling is not accompanied by heat or pain, and it does not usually cause lameness.

Who is at Risk?

Horses with osteochondrosis (OCD) are predisposed to developing bog spavin. In addition, poor hindlimb conformation, poor shoeing, poor trimming, poor footing, heavy training, or any trauma can also lead to bog spavin.

What can be done about it?

It’s always a good idea to have a veterinarian examine any changes in your horse, especially new swellings in the hock area. A lameness examination will most likely include imaging such as x-rays or ultrasound to determine the exact cause of the problem and extent of the damage. Your veterinarian may also perform a joint “tap,” where a needle is inserted into the joint to remove a small amount of fluid for examination.

Surgery may be necessary if bog spavin occurs as a result of an OCD chip or other OCD lesion.

In some situations, your vet may recommend joint injections or intramuscular or intravenous injections with prescription medications such as Adequan® or Legend® to help improve joint heath.

Why is prevention and management important?

While bog spavin is not the same thing as arthritis, many of the same activities and conformation flaws that lead to bog spavin may also lead to arthritis, tendinitis, and other lameness. For this reason, you may want to reevaluate certain aspects of your horse’s management, including trimming/shoeing, arena footing, conditioning program, and work schedule to help keep your horse healthy and happy, and avoid problems in the future.

In addition to modifying some of your management practices, now may also be a good time to start your horse on a joint supplement. The right joint supplement can provide the building blocks of healthy joint tissue and fluid as well as  support normal inflammatory processes.

SmartPak strongly encourages you to consult your veterinarian regarding specific questions about your horse's health. This information is not intended to diagnose or treat any disease, and is purely educational.

Article First Published June 2012