Why are we different?
Looking Beyond the Obvious
LOur focus is on identifying the underlying causes of movement imbalance and subtle sources of pain that may not be immediately apparent. Many horses compensate for small areas of discomfort until these issues eventually lead to lameness or noticeable performance problems. During each evaluation, we assess whole-body movement, posture, gait, limb loading, and areas of musculoskeletal tension to understand how different factors may be contributing to your horse’s discomfort.
Evaluating the Whole Picture
EPerformance issues are often multifactorial. In addition to examining the horse’s body, we frequently assess saddle and tack fit, biomechanics, conditioning, and other environmental factors that can influence comfort and movement. By looking at the whole picture, we can better identify patterns of imbalance and develop strategies that support improved function and long-term soundness.
Working Alongside Your Primary Veterinarian
WOur services are designed to complement—not replace—the care provided by your primary veterinarian. We do not provide routine veterinary services such as vaccinations, dentistry, or emergency care. Instead, we work as an adjunct to your veterinarian by focusing on biomechanics, body pain, and integrative therapies that support performance, rehabilitation, and comfort.
A Partnership in Your Horse’s Progress
PMany performance and soundness problems take time to improve and may require multiple visits or treatments. We provide rehabilitation exercises, aftercare recommendations, and guidance to help your horse regain balance and function. Owners play an important role in this process, and meaningful improvement often comes from a willingness to learn and actively participate in their horse’s care and recovery.
FAQ
What services do you provide?
We provide integrative equine veterinary services focused on improving movement, comfort, and performance. Services include gait and posture evaluation, lameness assessment, acupuncture, veterinary spinal manipulation (chiropractic), PulseVet Shockwave therapy, Class IV laser therapy, mesotherapy, and saddle or tack fit evaluation. Our goal is to identify underlying causes of imbalance, pain, or performance limitation and develop practical treatment and rehabilitation strategies.
Do you do farm calls?
Yes. All services are provided through scheduled farm calls so horses can be evaluated in their normal working environment. Observing horses where they live and train often provides valuable insight into movement patterns, tack fit, and environmental factors affecting performance.
Are you available for emergencies?
No. We do not provide emergency veterinary services. For urgent medical concerns or emergencies, please contact your primary veterinarian or a local equine emergency clinic. Our services are focused on performance evaluation, rehabilitation, and integrative care.
Can you take x-rays?
We do not currently provide radiography. If imaging such as x-rays or ultrasound is needed, we work closely with your primary veterinarian to coordinate diagnostics and treatment planning. Our role is to complement your veterinarian’s care by focusing on biomechanics, body pain, and functional movement.
What areas do you visit?
We regularly provide farm calls throughout the Palouse region, including Potlatch, Moscow, and Lewiston, with scheduled travel throughout Northern Idaho (Lewiston to Coeur d’Alene) and periodic visits to Southern Idaho and the Treasure Valley. If you are outside these areas, please inquire about availability or special travel days.
What are your qualifications?
Dr. Stephanie Permenter is a licensed veterinarian with over 15 years of equine experience. She has advanced training in veterinary acupuncture and veterinary medical manipulation (spinal manipulation) through the Chi Institute and focuses on integrative approaches to equine soundness, biomechanics, and performance. She has spent her life riding and training horses and continues to work with other veterinarians learning new treatments and techniques.
What do you charge?
Fees vary depending on the services provided and travel distance. Because many horses benefit from a comprehensive evaluation and individualized treatment plan, estimates are typically discussed at the time of scheduling. Please contact us directly for current pricing.
What types of payment do you accept?
We accept major credit cards and electronic payment methods, cash, and checks. Payment is typically due at the time services are provided.
Do you offer payment plans?
We do not currently offer in-house payment plans. Because our services are scheduled farm calls and specialized treatments, payment is expected at the time of the visit.
Do you treat animals besides horses?
Our integrative services are focused exclusively on horses and equine athletes. Dr. Permenter also practices small animal emergency medicine, but services through this practice are limited to horses.
What are your hours?
Visits are scheduled by appointment and may vary depending on travel routes and farm call locations. Because we travel throughout the region, appointment availability may change based on the service schedule. Please contact us to discuss upcoming availability.
How many treatments will my horse need?
The number of treatments varies depending on the horse and the underlying cause of the problem. Many soundness and performance issues develop over time due to compensation, subtle pain, or movement imbalance, so meaningful improvement often occurs over multiple visits. We develop an individualized plan that may include treatments, rehabilitation exercises, and management changes to support lasting comfort and performance.
