Latest News – The Horse
Respiratory Diseases Table Topic (AAEP 2010)
Appropriate biosecurity program protocols for respiratory diseases on the farm was the first issue addressed at the table topic on respiratory diseases presented at the 2010 American Association of Equine Practitioners Convention, held Dec. 4-8 in Baltimore, Md. Attendees agreed that segregating new arrivals/horses returning from horse shows and monitoring isolated horses’ temperatures are importa
Implementing a Deworming Program Based on Fecal Egg Counts (AAEP 2010)
Most horse owners are diligent about deworming their horses on a regular schedule. But there might be a more efficient deworming program that both horses and their owners can benefit from. According to Claudia K. True, DVM, a practitioner with Woodside Equine Clinic in Ashland, Va., basing a deworming program on fecal egg counts allows each horse an individualized deworming schedule and reduces
Horse Tip Daily 392 – Heather Blitz on Horse’s Balance
Heather Blitz returns with her latest training tip taken from the Dressage Radio Show. Heather speaks to us about the importance of the horse’s balance.
Vaccine for Rhodococcus equi to be Tested in Germany
A vaccine for Rhodococcus equi, the common bacteria that affects foals, often causing severe infections, pneumonia, and sometimes death, is in the final stages of development. Intervet/Schering-Plough Animal Health (ISPAH) said on Jan. 27 that a candidate vaccine for R. equi would be tested in a field trial in Germany in the near future.
Shock Wave Therapy Table Topic (AAEP 2010)
At the Table Topic session on shock wave therapy during the 2010 American Association of Equine Practitioners, held Dec. 4-8 in Baltimore, Md., attendees briefly discussed equipment–in particular, focused shock wave equipment. Treatment protocols were discussed in general. Practitioners noted a difference between treating specific injuries versus maintenance of a chronic problem. In treating a
Cordero Sentenced in Florida Horse Poaching Case
A Florida man, Luis Miguel Cordero, was sentenced on Feb. 1 to serve four years in prison after he plead guilty to poaching two horses and butchering them for their meat. Miami-Dade County law enforcement authorities arrested Cordero in September 2009 as he attempted to poach two horses located in the pasture of a Northwest Miami-Dade County ranch. Cordero later confessed to the Miami Gardens
Texas Pair Faces Cruelty Charges
A Texas couple is facing multiple animal cruelty charges in connection with the alleged maltreatment of 39 horses removed from their Coryell County property earlier this week. In addition, 250 dogs, two Bengal tigers, two mountain lions, one primate, one deer, and one raccoon were found residing on the property.
Use and Abuse of Medications at Horse Shows (AAEP 2010)
At the 2010 American Association of Equine Practitioners Convention, held Dec. 4-8 in Baltimore, Md., Marjorie W. Miller, DVM, discussed medication rules from several equestrian governing bodies as well as the role of veterinarians in equestrian sport.
Dressage Radio Episode 88 – Gold Coast Opener
Heather Blitz is back following a double-header at the Gold Coast Opener and we are joined by two more winners from this weekend’s show; Young
Good Fences, Good Neighbors
There was a terrible mishap on a Kentucky back road a few days ago. A sport utility vehicle struck a loose horse that was wandering
Neuroaxonal Dystrophy in Quarter Horses
Dr. Carrie Finno of the University of California, Davis, uses several case videos to describe the neurologic disease neuroaxonal dystrophy (also called equine degenerative myeloencephalopathy) in horses.
Postpartum Problems in Mares
Many things can go wrong when a mare foals, both during parturition and immediately after. Dystocia (difficult birth) is especially concerning. Even if things seem normal, here’s why a veterinarian should perform a post-foaling exam for mom an
A Chip Off the Old Block: Equine Cloning
In this article we’ll explore how horses are cloned, why this process is becoming increasingly popular, how closely cloned offspring resemble the original animals, and potential perils and pitfalls.
The Science Of Saddle Fit
A saddle can either encourage comfortable movement and clear communication between rider and horse, or it can result in discomfort and behavioral problems. Evaluating a saddle’s fit requires an understanding of saddle construction, the anatomy and dynamic movement of a horse, and the literal impact of the rider. If you haven’t evaluated your saddle’s fit recently, it could be time to do so.
Equine Ulcers … For Life?
Some horses are more predisposed to getting gastric ulcers, due to management, performance, or temperament. With proper medical treatment and removal of predisposing factors, ulcers can be healed, and horses can remain ulcer-free.
Assessing Equine Hoof Balance
The old adage “No Hoof, No Horse” has never been truer than in this day and age. Balancing your horse’s feet has become more of a factor in promoting good performance and long-term soundness. The optimum balance comes as the horse’s weight is distributed equally over his foot.
