Horse Health Logging: What to Record and Why It Matters

Good records turn vague worry into actionable data. When the vet asks "When did this start?" you should not rely on memory.

Core log types

| Type | What to capture | |------|-----------------| | Vet visit | Reason, diagnosis, treatment, follow-up date | | Farrier | Shoeing cycle, remedial work, next appointment | | Vaccination | Product, batch, site, booster due | | Worming | Product, FEC result if known | | Dental | Grade of sharpness, sedation, next check | | Medication | Drug, dose, duration, withdrawal if competing | | Weight | Tape or weighbridge reading, condition score | | Vitals (TPR) | Temperature, pulse, respiration at rest |

Frequency

Daily (competition horses): quick visual check, water intake, droppings.
Weekly: weight or condition score during harder work phases.
Event-driven: log within 24 hours of any professional visit.

Patterns worth catching

Resting pulse creeping up over a fortnight → fitness or illness signal.
Weight dropping while appetite stays normal → ulcer or worm burden question.
Recurring mild lameness after a specific surface → footing or shoeing review.

Digital vs paper

Paper diaries get left in the tack room. App-based logs with next-due reminders survive yard moves and make passport / FEI paperwork faster.

Your future self — and your vet — will thank you for five minutes after every visit.