Researchers emphasized the importance of comparing a horse’s performance with any upper respiratory tract findings, as not all of them result in decreased performance. | Photo: Courtesy Dr. Julie Fjeldborg

By Julie Fjeldborg, DVM, PhD, WEVA Regional Ambassador

Last year’s World Equine Airway Symposium (WEAS) took place July 13-15, in Copenhagen, Denmark.

The WEAS brings together the leading equine airway researchers from around the world to present the latest knowledge and research and exchange experiences and information on diagnosing and treating (both medically and surgically) respiratory diseases in horses. About 100 participants from 23 countries attended WEAS 2017, where researchers presented more than 70 oral and poster abstracts.

Research on equine airway issues is extremely important, as almost all horses suffer from a respiratory tract disorder at some point in their lives. These can include upper respiratory tract disorders, such as laryngeal neuropathy, and lower airway issues, such as those that result in a chronic cough