Signs of a Drugged Horse

Can We Tell?

Probably not, and that's the most compelling reason to have a pre-purchase exam done by a veterinarian before you buy a horse.  It's also why trial periods and signed contracts with return policies are vitally important aspects of safe horse shopping. 

Unscrupulous sellers might want to mask unsoundness or behavioral issues. Most commonly, they use the sedative Acepromazine to calm anxious or unruly animals, and/or Phenylbutazone or "bute," an analgesic and anti-inflammatory medication used to treat lameness.

Know this:  If a horse appears to be sound, most lay people would not be able to determine whether bute has been administered.

Sedation is sometimes a little easier to spot.  Telltale signs might be: 
  • A horse that seems "dull" or "flat"
  • Relaxed or drooping lower lip, lowered head
  • A male horse with relaxed or hanging penis
  • Lack of coordination or stumbling
  • Eyes at half-mast
  • Sweating or trembling
  • Pink or reddish brown urine
The absence of symptoms does not, however, mean that a horse has not been sedated.  Sometimes the dosage is just enough to hide problems but not enough for the horse to exhibit the above signs.  There are many other substances traders use to hide dangerous behavior or unsoundness so if you're the least bit suspicious, don't open your checkbook too quickly without a vet's advice.

We have received a very worthwhile email from HTT reader Doug, which we include in its entirety (thank you, Doug!):

To Horsetradertricks:
You might add that a mare's vulva will gape open when she is doped. Also, a male horse whose member is drooping from sedation can be made to draw it up by daubing Vicks Vapor Rub on the area - a mare will keep herself shut using the same trick. Look for a horse that is very clean in those areas or for residue that hasn't been properly removed. 

A "bishoped" horse is one who has had his teeth worked to make him look younger than he is. One of the old methods was to take silver nitrate and put new cups in the teeth. There are equine dentists out there now who can make one look years younger. The majority of equine dentists do a world of good in correcting dental problems and making a horse work better in the mouth, but I do know of some who "give new age" for a fee.

Another place to find a good horse is at a small country horse show - look for one with an older kid on it or a kid too big for the horse/pony they're riding. You will get to see the animal being ridden, probably not doped and just watch the animal for several weeks, noticing how it reacts to different situations and hopefully different riders. Then approach the owner if you like what you see. The worst thing they will do is say they don't want to sell.

No, I am not a horse trader, in case you're wondering, but I put myself through college working in a number of horse barns and for a farrier.  I am still enjoying your site - haven't had time to finish it yet, but keep up the good work.

Doug