Which testing method assesses the horse's capillary refill time?

The assessment of a horse's capillary refill time is effectively conducted by pressing the thumb against the upper gum. This method is based on evaluating how quickly blood returns to the capillaries after pressure is applied. When you press on the gum, it temporarily disrupts the blood flow to that area, and once the pressure is released, the color of the gum should return to its normal pinkish hue. The speed of this return is the capillary refill time, which can provide valuable information regarding the horse's hydration status and overall circulatory health.

While looking at the horse's eyes may offer insights into the animal's general health or hydration, it doesn't directly assess capillary refill time. Measuring heart rate gives data on the horse's cardiovascular state but does not inform on capillary refill. Inspecting hoof conditions is important for overall foot health but is unrelated to assessing capillary refill time. Thus, pressing the thumb against the upper gum is the correct and targeted method for evaluating capillary refill time.