What to Expect During an Evaluation

1. Preparation and History
We begin by reviewing your horse's history, current concerns, and relevant environmental or management factors.

2. Thermal Imaging
Using a FLIR infrared camera with settings appropriate for equine thermography, images are captured systematically to examine surface temperature patterns and left-to-right symmetry.

3. Image Review
Imaging is contact-free and does not expose the horse to ionizing radiation.Images are reviewed for thermal symmetry, asymmetry, and other patterns of interest, while considering environmental influences and image limitations.

4. Your Report
You receive a written thermal evaluation report summarizing observations, selected thermal images, areas deserving a closer look, and recommendations for appropriate follow-up.

Why Consider Thermal Imaging?

Thermography offers another way to gather information about your horse's physical condition and may be particularly useful when:


  • Your horse displays changes in movement or performance.
  • You notice recurring areas of muscular tension or sensitivity.
  • You want to investigate thermal symmetry across the body.
  • You are evaluating possible saddle-related patterns.
  • You want baseline images for comparison during future evaluations.
  • You are working with your veterinarian to better understand an area of concern.


Thermal imaging can complement movement analysis, posture assessment, bodywork observations, and veterinary evaluation.

Sometimes, it's the combination of observations that helps us better understand the whole picture.

These are real but redacted (for privacy) partial reports as examples performed May 2025.

Equine Thermography
Seeing Patterns Beyond the Surface

A different perspective on your horse's comfort, movement, and performance.

Your horse can't tell you where something feels different. But changes in surface temperature may provide valuable clues about areas that deserve closer attention.

At The Connected Balance™, infrared thermography adds another dimension to understanding the whole horse.

Invest in Understanding Your Horse

Gain another perspective on your horse's surface-temperature patterns through professional thermal imaging, careful image review, and a detailed written report.

Whether you're investigating a particular concern or establishing a baseline for future comparisons, thermography can be a valuable addition to understanding your horse.

Contact The Connected Balance™ to schedule an evaluation or discuss whether thermography is appropriate for your horse. 

Certified Equine Thermal Imaging Evaluation — $150

The Connected Balance™
Debra Parker, E.S.M.T.
Certified Veterinary Thermographer (AAT)
​(760) 846-4724 (call or text)

*Important: Infrared thermography is a non-diagnostic screening and monitoring tool. Thermal patterns alone cannot confirm or rule out injury, inflammation, pain, or disease. Findings should be interpreted alongside clinical history and other appropriate assessments. Veterinary consultation is recommended whenever a medical condition is suspected.

What Is Equine Thermography?

Equine thermography is a non-invasive imaging technique that uses a specialized infrared camera to measure and visualize temperature patterns across the surface of your horse's body.

These patterns are influenced by circulation, heat transfer, environmental conditions, and other physiological factors.

By comparing corresponding areas on the left and right sides of the horse, we can observe thermal similarities and differences that may warrant further investigation.

Thermography does not diagnose an injury or condition. It helps identify areas of interest and provides additional information to guide further assessment.

The Connected Balance™ Approach
Assess – Balance – Maintain

We believe that understanding the whole horse is more valuable than looking at isolated areas.

As a Certified Veterinary Thermographer (AAT) and Equine Sports Massage Therapist, Debra Parker combines knowledge of equine anatomy, movement, and musculoskeletal function with structured thermal imaging techniques.

Thermal patterns are considered alongside the horse's history, posture, movement, and other relevant observations.

The goal is not to assign a diagnosis from an image, but to provide meaningful information that helps owners and veterinary or other professionals make informed decisions by putting the pieces together.

Preparing Your Horse for Thermography

Thermography is sensitive to environmental conditions. Proper preparation is essential for obtaining meaningful thermal images.

Before your appointment:

  • Avoid exercise immediately before imaging.
  • Keep your horse dry and free from sweat.
  • Avoid applying liniments, topical products, or other substances that may change skin temperature.
  • Allow adequate time after removing blankets, wraps, or other coverings.
  • Provide a sheltered location away from direct sunlight and drafts whenever possible.
  • Let us know about recent treatments, medications, injuries, or changes in routine.


Specific preparation instructions will be provided when scheduling your appointment.

Why Cooler Weather Helps

Moderate, cooler conditions can make it easier to obtain consistent thermal images, provided the horse is appropriately acclimated and the imaging environment is controlled.

Direct sunlight, wind, moisture, extreme temperatures, and recent activity can all influence thermal patterns.

Good thermography depends on preparation and technique — not simply having an infrared camera.