Last week we shared the importance of horses having a pasture friend <Link>. Research from Ohio State University suggests that horses need a minimum amount of space to derive all the benefits of turnout and to stay out of each other's hair. Source: EQUUS, August 29, 2023. Link. Study data showed horses kept in pens that allowed 342 square meters* per horse had reduced … [Read more...]
Some lameness may be in a horse’s head
The definition of rein lameness is difficult because it's a lameness that can be appreciated only when a horse is being exercised under saddle or wearing a bridle and being exercised. A link between TMJ inflammation and lameness has been studied by James L. Carmalt, MA, VetMB, MVetSc, PhD, FRCVS, DABVP(Eq), DAVDC(Eq), DACVSMR(Eq), DACVSe, and his colleagues. If you have TMJ … [Read more...]
New thinking and approaches to cribbing
Researchers still aren’t sure why some horses crib while others managed the same way do not. Most agree that horses do not adopt this behavior by mimicking others. The current thinking is that an individual horse might have a genetic predisposition to crib, but the behavior isn’t triggered until he is subjected to stressors related to his lifestyle, shares Heather … [Read more...]
Pasture friends important for equine learning
Social stimulation and interaction with other horses may influence the development of a horse's social skills and their ability to communicate with humans according to a Finland study of 57 horses of various ages and relationship status with humans. . . . horses living in pastures with other horses for at least eight months of the year are better able to follow cues from … [Read more...]
Ringworm can easily be mistaken for girth gall
Despite its name, ringworm is actually a fungal skin infection that is easily passed from horse to horse on shared equipment. It can also be passed by a rider’s boots, which would rest on the horse just behind the girth area during riding. Plus, ringworm is zoonotic and easily spread from horse to rider and vice versa. The girth area is a common site for ringworm to … [Read more...]
Preventing gastric ulcers after colic surgery
Stress can predispose a horse to develop gastric ulcers, and surgery is definitely stressful for any animal says Janice L. Holland, PhD. She shares diet and management recommendations can help reduce the incidence of gastric ulcers which also may decrease the incidence of colic. Source: The Horse, August 21, 2023. Link. Recovery from colic surgery is difficult enough … [Read more...]
Choke: The right steps to take
Choke looks spooky, especially to novice horse owners, but when handled correctly it usually resolves on its own. Horses don’t stop breathing like humans do when choke occurs. In time the chunk of apple or wad of food moves on in most cases. Horse owners will appreciate the counseling in this article, including the guidance to call their veterinarian. Consider it for social … [Read more...]
What pet food manufacturing contributes to the U.S. economy
The direct contributions made by pet food manufacturers to the U.S. economy include nearly $11 billion in added value, including $2.9 billion in labor income representing 32,938 jobs. That’s almost $35 billion in sales according to research detailed in the American Feed Industry Association’s April 2023 report <Link>. Source: PETFOOD Industry, August 15, 2023. … [Read more...]
KCAHC Summit emerging companies, 2023 Innovation Award recipient
Akston Biosciences, which specializes in bringing protein therapeutics through major phases of development, was selected as the 2023 Innovation Award recipient. Animal health pros who are curious about future services and advancements will find plenty to consider from the 13 companies selected to present and seek investments during the Summit. Coaches from KCAHC companies … [Read more...]
KCAHC Summit 2023 key takeaways
In the press release linked here, the KC Corridor’s supporting team provides a summary of the #AHSummit23 including the emerging companies presentation results, the Iron Paw award, as well as key takeaways from the Insights from Top Leaders panel. The vision to develop industry potential was unscored by a focus on the health and welfare of our industry’s people. Animal health … [Read more...]
Equine experts refute standard cooling out practices; restricting water to hot horses
Two experts challenge some standard practices asserting horses need to rehydrate promptly after exercise so their body's cooling mechanisms function effectively, especially if the horse is receiving the diuretic Lasix (furosemide). They also shared thoughts on hosing horses down and using cooling sheets. “A horse has to sweat; it's their basic mechanism to dissipate heat. . … [Read more...]
Insect control strategies for horse owners
Includes Commercial Content Owning and keeping horses healthy requires a significant commitment beyond time to train and ride. Alayne Blickle shares the importance of an integrated, multitiered insect control plan to combat flies, mosquitoes, midges and other insects that create nuisance and health issues for horses and their owners. Source: The Horse. Link. A successful … [Read more...]
Worth a Glance – August 10, 2023
Last week’s AHD Bulletin – Animal Health Digest Bulletin, August 3, 2023. Link. Most read post(s) from August 3rd AHD Bulletin – Weight stigma infiltrates work. Link. Addressing relentless licking by dogs. Link. Covetrus® expands GreatPetCare™. Link. Place keeper: 2023 Veterinary Conferences provided by Galaxy … [Read more...]
Genomic study links whorls and behavior in horses
Scientists have found a possible genetic link between whorls and behavior in Quarter Horses. Christa Lesté-Lasserre, MA, shares findings from a study of the association between facial hair whorl characteristics and behavioral responses to a fearful stimulus in horses. Source: The Horse, April 3, 2023. Link. It has been reported that horses with whorls above the eye line are … [Read more...]
Causes of surgical site infection unclear in post-colic surgeries
Commentary Surgical site infections are a major concern regardless of the species. There are myriad articles and studies of specific surgery types and conditions. Surgery suite sanitation and infection control papers add more content to libraries. Estimates suggest that four percent to 10 percent of horses will experience colic at least once in their lifetimes. Although … [Read more...]
Yes, animal chiropractic is a thing
Commentary Having a conversation* with Dr. O (William Ormston, DVM) is mind-expanding. He is a veterinarian with a passion for exploring, learning, teaching and sharing the benefits of animal chiropractic, a branch of physical medicine. We are pleased to share this recent article. For a four-legged animal to move correctly, it requires every bone, muscle, ligament, tendon … [Read more...]
Equine network debuts brand for new horse owners
The Equine Network announced My New Horse for equestrians just getting into horse ownership or riding. Partners Kent (aka Kent Feeds) and W.F. Young assert the brand will deliver a community and resources to new horse persons at the beginning stages of ownership. The website will feature content created by industry experts, Kent nutritionists and editors of respected … [Read more...]
Alfalfa hay linked to photosensitivity in horses
The type of hay a horse eats can influence his susceptibility to photic reactions. St. John’s wort, buckwheat and other plants have been found to contain compounds that can cause photosensitive reactions. Research published in 2016 from the University of California–Davis confirms that alfalfa hay can induce primary photosensitive reactions in horses, although the exact … [Read more...]
Heat exhaustion versus heat stroke in horses (podcast)
Jeanette "Jay" Mero, DVM, outlines the clinical signs of heat exhaustion and stroke in horses in these editions of the podcast. Consider sharing the podcasts with animal owners on social media and in newsletters now as horses are being transported to field activities, local fairs and shows or for rodeo events. Source: Ask the Horse Podcast, July 20, 2119. Link. (2:00) This … [Read more...]
12 plants and herbs that naturally repel mosquitoes
If the dry weather has burned out some landscape flowers, consider adding plants that repel mosquitoes ahead of the late summer and early fall biting frenzy. End-of-season discounts are generally available on remaining plants as fall approaches. . . . a lavender plant smells a whole lot nicer than a bottle of bug spray.” Source: Country Living, April 3, 2023. … [Read more...]
Worth a Glance – July 20, 2023
Last week’s AHD Bulletin – Animal Health Digest Bulletin, July 13th, 2023. Link. Most read post(s) from July 13th AHD Bulletin – A new federal pregnancy law is now in effect; what HR needs to know. Link. States outlaw noncompete agreements. Link. You’re capable of courage. Link. Place keeper: 2023 Veterinary Conferences provided by Galaxy … [Read more...]
Nutrition for equine hoof health; feeding the foot
Commentary Horses, like us, need proper nutrition for healthy skin and nails (and hooves). The hoof is a living organ. A horse’s diet plays a crucial role in the quality and durability of the horn that makes up his hooves. Lynn Taylor, PhD, and Ashley Wagner, PhD, shed light on the dos and don’ts of feeding for optimal hoof health in this article. Today’s diet is … [Read more...]
Blister beetles in hay are a danger for livestock, horses
Got grasshoppers? Then it is likely blister beetles may be present as grasshopper eggs are a main food source for them <Link>. With drought causing more hay to be transported about the country, it is important for livestock producers and horse owners to monitor the hay and their animals for signs of blister beetles. Elizabeth Cronin shares some ways to reduce the threat … [Read more...]
Looking back while charging forward
As the third quarter of 2023 begins, the animal health industry continues to adapt to ever-changing new norms. Dr. Google’s influence may be diminishing as new information sources expand in the B2C sector capitalizing on major publications’ use of their databases from other markets. It is important to remember media sources still influence animal owners’ understanding and … [Read more...]
Ringbone; never good news but not a death sentence
Ringbone and other forms of equine osteoarthritis is a common problem that occurs in horses all over the world, writes David Ramey, DVM. There’s no known cure for the condition, it is progressive and it doesn’t let up. Ramey discusses the history of ringbone, factors involved, options to redirect horse activity and ways to try to control the clinical signs of the disease … [Read more...]
The two horse worlds
Although acknowledging some overlap, David Ramey, DVM, describes what he calls two horse worlds. The pleasure versus performance designations have a lot to do with the expectations of owners. Ramey asserts the owner of a horse that’s valued because he’s a very special individual who makes his human’s life better just by being there may look askance at the owner of a horse … [Read more...]
How does laminitis affect the hoof? (video)
Complimentary Commercial Content Mike Barker explains how laminitis affects the horse's foot. The video is part of a curation of hoof care highlights <Link>. Source: American Farriers Journal, YouTube, June 17, 2023. Link. … [Read more...]
Avoid algae in horse and livestock water troughs
Working to maintain algae-free water helps keep horses drinking as temperatures rise. Here are two resources addressing algae growth suitable for sharing with horse and livestock owners on social media or in newsletters. Frequent water tank cleaning is important, especially in warm months and especially with plastic tanks.” Clair Thunes, PhD, says most algae don’t pose a … [Read more...]
10 pet safety tips for July 4th activities
July 4th celebrations may be fun for us, but they can be stressful for pets. Here are 10 common-sense tips to keep in mind for the holiday. Source: PetMD, June 24, 2023. Link. Here’s how to keep your pets safe this Fourth of July. Keep your pet indoors. Create a safe space for your pet. Prepare for noise phobias. Make sure your pet has an up-to-date ID. … [Read more...]
Study: PRP gel accelerates skin wound healing in horses
A scientist in Pakistan recently shared study results that indicate using platelet-rich plasma can be a safe, effective approach to hastening wound healing in horses. Muhammad Talha Sajjad, DVM, MPhil, PhD, found PRP gel encourages re-epithelialization and accelerates skin wound healing by promoting wound contraction and stabilization of the collagen fiber arrangement. … [Read more...]