Thermal Imaging / Premier Horse Vet in Allegan, Michigan

What is Thermal Imaging, and how can it help you and your horse?

Thermal imaging is detection of heat that an object emits. By measuring what the body emits, we can make a picture of the temperature of the body. What we’re looking for, in a thermagram is differences. We can take that information and build conclusions.

Thermographers use this heat detection device (THERMAL CAMERA) for infrared imaging, which looks like a regular camera. It’s used to scan the to determine variations in heat patterns on the body. The image it takes can be displayed on a monitor, or computer screen, for analysis.

Thermography ( IRT) , is especially useful in identifying fluctuations in blood flow, which can indicate problems in soft tissues. The blood flow can vary, depending on whether circulation is normal or affected by injury. IRT can be an early indicator of a problem because blood flow to an injured area may increase before clinical signs of pain and lameness become evident, sometimes early as 2 weeks in advance!

Thermal imaging (infrared thermography) can help horses by detecting changes in surface temperature that may indicate inflammation, injury, or poor circulation. It’s a valuable, non-invasive diagnostic and monitoring tool in equine care. Here’s how it can help:

1. Early Detection of Injuries
• Identifies hot spots (inflammation) or cold spots (lack of blood flow) before clinical signs appear.
• Helps spot issues in hooves, tendons, ligaments, or muscles.

2. Monitoring Recovery
• Tracks changes in injury sites over time.
• Assesses how well a horse is responding to treatment or therapy.

3. Saddle Fit Issues
• Reveals uneven pressure or poor saddle fit by imaging the horse’s back before and after riding.

4. Pre-Purchase or Routine Exams
• Provides a baseline for performance horses.
• Helps in making informed decisions during purchase or competition preparation.

5. Lameness and Gait Analysis
• Aids vets in identifying the source of lameness when combined with other tools.

6. Non-Invasive & Painless
• No radiation, sedation, or contact—safe for sensitive or nervous horses.

I have been Certified for 5 years. Give me a call and let's see if we can find a solution to your horses issues.

Specialties

Certified Farrier. Barefoot Specialist Equine Lameness Evaluation & Treatment Equine Podiatry Equine Rehabilitation Pre-Purchase Exams Trainer