Latest News – The Horse
Foal Care When There Are Problems
If a new foal develops a problem requiring surgery, time is of the essence, said Rolf Embertson, DVM, Dipl. ACVS, of Rood and Riddle Equine Hospital. The time from recognition of abdominal pain to arrival of the foal at the clinic, evaluation for surgery, and surgery preparation and execution could affect the prognosis dramatically.
AAEP Wrap-Up: Further Reading
Each year we report more information on this convention than can be covered in these pages. Full versions of some articles and additional reports can be found by visiting www.TheHorse.com/AAEP2003 or by using the given article numbers.
- “Dystocia Management,” #4954
AAEP Wrap-Up: Learning in the Big Easy
A record crowd of nearly 6,200 attended the 49th annual convention of the American Association of Equine Practitioners (AAEP) in New Orleans, La. Included in that total was twice the number of veterinary students who attended the 2002 convention. The convention offered nearly 100 scientific presentations, hands-on wet labs, and an equine health seminar for horse owners.
The 50th Annual
AAEP Wrap-Up: Kester News Hour
With researchers worldwide working on solutions to various horse health problems, there is a veritable mountain of information being published continuously. Much of this information is included in AAEP convention presentations, but some of this valuable research was either too new or brief to be included in the program.
AAEP Wrap-Up: Surgery
Surgery for DDSP
Dorsal displacement of the soft palate (DDSP) occurs when the palate partially obstructs the airway by becoming displaced on top of the epiglottis. This can affect breathing, especially during intense exercise. Jennifer Smith, DVM, University of Pennsylvania’s New Bolton Center, discussed the combined effects of the surgeries
Lameness (AAEP Wrap-Up)
“The foot is involved, either directly or indirectly, in the large majority of lameness cases,” said Ric Redden, DVM, founder of the International Equine Podiatry Center in Versailles, Ky.
Medicine and Treatments: Colic, Rabies, Pneumonia
A study to determine the clinical signs of gastrointestinal rupture during colic was done by researchers at the University of California, Davis, and results were presented by Diana Hassel, DVM, of UC Davis.
Neurologic Disease Discussed
Morgan stressed that good management practices can reduce the risk factors that contribute to neurologic disease incidence. Keep feed sources clean and free of opossums and protect your hay from rodent infestation.

Feeding Geriatrics, Athletic Horses
The traditional diet for horses includes oats, corn, and barley. Starch (a hydrolyzable carbohydrate) is a primary component of these. There is evidence that the horse has a limited capacity to digest and absorb starch from the small intestine.
Reproduction (AAEP 2003)
Research has shown that boars can be fed a specific diet to increase fertility, and the same might be true of stallions. Steven Brinsko, DVM, PhD, Dipl. ACT, from Texas A&M University, discussed the potential of feeding a nutraceutical to stallions to enhance their fertility.
Racehorse Injuries and Issues
Severe injury of a racehorse is one of the most visible and critical situations race track practitioners must handle. Mary Scollay, DVM, senior association veterinarian for Gulfstream Park and Calder Racecourse, and Celeste Kunz, VMD, chief examining veterinarian of the New York Racing Association, moderated a Sunrise Session on triage of acute racing injuries.
Vaccines–Comparative Efficacy
Several researchers have been working the past few years to determine if any U.S.-registered equine vaccine had advantages over others. It turns out that the serologic responses to–and protection given by–these vaccines varies significantly.
Heavy Horse Health Problems
Draft horses are enjoying a comeback. Not since the days when they were required to move the nation have the gentle giants been so sought after as riding and driving competitors. Draft crosses are found worldwide, competing at many levels and”P>Draft horses are enjoying a comeback. Not since the days when they were required to move the nation have the gentle giants been so”>Draft horses are enjo
Urban Horses
Horses living in the city, who would have ever thought? Where would they graze? What would you do with the manure? Where would you ride? Well, confining horses to a barn, paddock, or small acreage within the city limits has become an everyday
Dogs and Horses: Predators and Prey
There they are: Your two best friends. Fred has been your buddy since you were a teenager, sharing your victories and disappointments, always steadfast and reliable. Bonnie has only been part of your life for a couple of months, but you’ve hit i
Fencing: The Art of Good Neighbors
To build and maintain good horse fence does take time and effort, but in the end it can be very rewarding. We shall assume that the proper fencing materials have been chosen. However, a quick review of good, safe choices is helpful.