Equine influenza virus can spread through an entire herd in a matter of days. We can no longer assume that older horses are immune. This feature covers the virus, viral mutation, pathways and recovery. Veterinary teams, dealer associates and sales representatives will appreciate the fresh resources on this ugly virus. Source: EQUUS, June 2016. (direct link … [Read more...]
Sedating for a lameness exams may improve procedure
Mild sedation during lameness exams can help the procedure move along more smoothly and safely. However, the relaxation result of the sedative could skew results. Read this piece to learn what common lameness indicators the sedation affects and how veterinarians and owners take that into consideration. Source: Equus November, 2015 But sedation can make a horse sluggish, so … [Read more...]
Enteroliths: Colic-causing rocks
Enteroliths are rock-like concretions that are similar to gallstones in humans. They form in the large intestine of a horse; usually after the ingestion of a small pebble, grains of sand or other small, hard object. These rocks can cause anything from mild colic symptoms to full impactions that require surgery or lead to death. Luckily, there are things horse owners can do to … [Read more...]
Laminitis – special report
Horse owners will read and mull over the information shared in this laminitis special report. Two main articles discuss 1) the increasing prevalence of the endocrine form and its relationship to grass and forage and 2) keys to preventing laminitis. There’s no doubt that many questions could be asked of veterinary teams, dealers and retailers as a consequence of reading and … [Read more...]
Local conditions affect West Nile Virus spread
Carried by birds, predominately crows and jays, West Nile virus (WNV) is transmitted by mosquitos. Rainfall and land cover affect the incidence of disease, according to Mississippi State University researchers. Local land areas with a greater variety of vegetation and landscape seem to reduce the incidence according to the study. Vaccination is still critical to prevent … [Read more...]
Equine cellulitis
When a horse’s leg swells to double or triple the normal leg size overnight, owners and vets must take immediate action. Cellulitis, while common, can be frightening for owners. Having a veterinary professional respond quickly and decisively is critical to avoid further injury. Caused by bacteria penetrating the dermis and multiplying in the subcutis, the origins of cellulitis … [Read more...]
Prevent winter colic
Colic tops the list of winter equine health challenges. Water, diet and movement are critical. Equine veterinary teams and dealers will appreciate this resource when working with horse owners. The content is also appropriate for websites, newsletters and blogs. Source: EQUUS, February 8, 2016. Cold weather may conspire against your efforts to keep water flowing to your … [Read more...]
Horse longevity
Two articles cover equine aging in this issue. Manage Your Horse to Live Longer and The Science of Aging cover: Dental care Weight monitoring and diet/nutritional management Activity needs Hormonal imbalances Arthritis and chronic inflammation Vaccination efficacy Parasite control Stress Equine veterinary teams and equine sales representatives will benefit … [Read more...]
Cozy barns create equine respiratory risks
Optimal ventilation is critical to equine respiratory health. Too much vs. too little is discussed in this email that horse owners received this week. This content can be used effectively on DVM websites, in blogs and newsletters. Source: Equus, January 11, 2016 email. A shut-tight barn may feel warmer, but the lack of air circulation allows ammonia fumes and dust to … [Read more...]
Runny nose
Horse owners will likely keep this checklist and photo-filled story on equine nasal discharge. The article will cause horse owners to notice their horses’ sniffles and consider calling their veterinarian. Veterinary hospital personnel will appreciate the resource, as well. Source: Equus, January 2016, page 26. (direct link unavailable) The color, odor, quantity and … [Read more...]
10 ways to help horses with heaves
Equine veterinarians and dealers will appreciate this extensive article as a resource when servicing horses and owners experiencing RAO (recurrent airway obstruction). Reps calling on equine vets and dealers may wish to share this article with customers as a resource for websites and for specific customers with chronic problems. Source: Equus, December 2015, page 42. (direct … [Read more...]
American Pharoah: Making history, what makes him run, ranking, personality
The latest issue of Equus is full of information about American Pharoah’s Triple Crown winner. He is the first horse in 37 years to win the Triple Crown (Kentucky Derby, Preakness Stakes and Belmont Stakes) since Affirmed in 1978. American Pharoah joins a very exclusive group of equine racing athletes. A deep bruise in his left front hoof might have kept him from racing had it … [Read more...]