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Causes of Diarrhea in Horses (Beyond Salmonella) August/2009
Diarrhea can rapidly develop into a life-threatening condition that can cost thousands of dollars to treat. Knowing the potential causes of diarrhea can help ensure a full recovery and minimize the chances of the development of fatal complications. Despite a horse's apparently sturdy exterior, his various internal body systems are delicate--particularly his gastrointestinal (GI) system.
EEE, WEE, and VEE (Eastern, Western, and Venezuelan Equine Encephalitis) July/2009
Eastern, Western, and Venezuelan equine encephalitis can be deadly, but they also can be prevented. Author’s Note: My grandfather and his neighbors in southern Idaho lost several work horses to "brain fever" in the 1930s. My grandfather’s family managed to save one mare; they tied her in the barn, supported her with a sling, and secured ice packs to her head during her fever and delirium.
Gearing Up June/2009
The world of tack and other equine equipment is ever-changing with innovations in safety, comfort, and convenience. One wonderful aspect of being a horse owner or enthusiast is the variety of available equipment--generally innovative, cool stuff--to use under saddle or in the stable. Exciting innovations in recent years have lent safety, comfort, and practicality to our horse adventures.
Core Training Exercise Guidelines May/2009
Core training exercises can be done without a warm-up--for example, in horses that are recovering from injury--because the horse controls the amount of motion, and loading of the joints is less than during locomotion. Hilary M.
Sand Colic in Horses May/2009
Horses in some management conditions are susceptible to sand ingestion; here's how to avoid sand buildup and resulting complications. Rarely do we see our horses lapping up sand like it's some rare commodity. But inevitably horses end up with burdens of sand in their intestinal tracts from grazing sandy pastures or eating off the ground.
Will the Worms Win? Part 2: Resistance May/2009
Managing internal parasites in the face of dewormer resistance. Anthelmintic resistance is a growing problem the world over. While we might not see "super worms" ravaging our equine companions, there is a pressing need to update deworming strategies and horse owners' perceptions regarding available deworming tools. Internal parasite populations develop anthelmintic resistance (resistance to medications capable of expelling or destroying internal parasites, also called dewormers) when recommended doses of dewormers do not kill them as readily as they used to or at all.
Will the Worms Win? (Part 1) April/2009
Common intestinal parasites and why they are problematic . Intestinal parasites, or "worms," have been problematic since the domestication of horses. In this first section of a two-part series, we’ll review the identification, transmission, and problems associated with internal parasites.
FAEP 2008 Symposium April/2009
Laminitis, corneal ulcers, and R. equi were among the topics veterinarians and researchers discussed at a conference in the Caribbean. Thirteen presenters took to the podium, covering lameness, reproduction, and medicine topics at the fourth annual Promoting Excellence Symposium of the Florida Association of Equine Practitioners (FAEP), held Sept. 25-27, 2008, in San Juan, Puerto Rico.
Disease Risks at Shows and Events March/2009
Common sense and careful attention to detail can help reduce the risk of disease in your traveling horse. Just as when a bunch of people are confined to a relatively small space, such as in an office or airplane, when horses congregate in large numbers there is always the possibility of passing disease between individuals. Some events pose a higher risk of infection than others, particularly if horses are stabled overnight.
Horses and Tight Budgets March/2009
Here are a few ways to spend less on horsekeeping. In this shaky economy, horse owners are finding ways to trim costs. David Freeman, PhD, of the Department of Animal Science, Oklahoma State University, says he gets a lot of calls from people wondering what they can do. "Most people don't want to hear my first words of advice.
Saving Horses 911 February/2009
Equine technical rescue training means getting first responders on board. Tim looked around the pasture, puzzled. The last time he had checked, both mare and foal were fine, but now the 2-month-old colt was nowhere to be seen. Tim mounted up and started searching, finally catching the sound of a faint whinny.
Barn-O-Matic February/2009
The latest models of automated waterers and feeders can take some of the work out of horsekeeping, and automatic stall cleaners can even minimize your time wielding a pitchfork! Finding it difficult to schedule enough quality time in the barn these days? Worried that all your other obligations are going to mess with your horse's need for regular feeding and his love of routine? Feel like you never have enough hands to get all the work done? Never fear, my hapless, harried reader. Help is out there, in the form of automated feeders, waterers, and even stall mucking assistance devices.
Employment and Immigration February/2009
Keep necessary documentation and use personnel best management practices when hiring immigrant laborers. Veteran Arabian horse trainer Jill Girardi Thomas is no stranger to the challenges connected with finding and retaining good barn operations staff. "It's an industry where the work is hard, the entry level pay is low--between $8 and $12 an hour--and the days are long," says Girardi Thomas, who is based in Franklin, Tenn.
Environmentally Friendly February/2009
Choosing to become more environmentally sensitive on the farm is a responsible option for all of us and can be addressed in varying degrees. You don't need to scrap your tractor, invest in expensive wind-powered generators, build a new solar-roofed barn, or make any of the other currently touted myriad of expensive, drastic moves to reduce your carbon footprint. Even if your budget is small, there are many responsible practices you can implement quickly and inexpensively.
Farm Equipment February/2009
Tailor your selections to your facility's specific needs. If you own or manage a farm, sooner or later you have to invest in some horsepower. And unless your hobby is old- fashioned draft horse farming, you'll need some motorized muscle on your side. Here's a look at some of the equipment you might purchase and tips on what to look for (and watch out for).
Fields and Fences February/2009
Make the most of your pastures by maintaining fences and fertilizing. There's a whole lot more to grazing management than simply turning your horses out when the pastures green up. Regular fence maintenance, careful planning of fertilizing and seeding, strategic weed control, and attention to temperatures and growing conditions all come into play when keeping pastures.
New for Veterinarians and Equine Professionals February/2009
A year-round guide to what's available for assisting veterinary professionals--from novel gadgets to emerging therapies. Whether he's in the clinic or on the road, your vet tends to everyone's needs but his own. Good thing there are groups working to make his life easier.
For the Record: Taxes and Recordkeeping February/2009
Tame that wild pile of unorganized paperwork throughout the year to optimize the horse and farm ownership experience. Editor's Note: This article provides general information only, and readers should consult with a competent accountant or attorney familiar with the horse business before undertaking any action based on the material herein. Everybody has one--an unorganized pile of receipts lurking in a shoebox, or in a desk drawer, or in a filing cabinet tucked away in a corner of the garage.
Fact Sheets January/2009
TheHorse.com is creating a series of free, two-page, downloadable Fact Sheets to give a short, basic synopsis on a variety of topics associated with horse health, care, management, and welfare. You are welcome to read these online, download them to your computer, e-mail them to friends, or print them out and share with your horse-owning friends or equine groups.
Flies and Bugs January/2009
Your horses face external parasites year-round; be prepared to fight! Part of your management program for the year should include controlling external parasites and protecting horses from the ones that are difficult to control. Most parasites are seasonal, with populations dramatically increasing when temperature and moisture conditions are conducive to their survival and reproduction.
Internal Parasites January/2009
The days of just rotating and deworming every six to eight weeks are gone; today there must be a strategy. There are several major internal parasites of horses, and control is aimed at reducing their numbers at certain stages in their life cycles. These stages will vary with the seasons, which, in turn, can vary with the geography and climate where you live.
Respecting Our Elders January/2009
Is 20 the new 10? How horses age has a lot to do with their luck in the genetic lottery, but factors such as nutrition, medical and dental care, and lifestyle can enhance--and even extend--their years. "Historically, horses were considered old when they reached their teens," says Joe Pagan, PhD, president of Kentucky Equine Research in Versailles, Ky.
Skin Deep January/2009
Your horse's skin is a huge and complex organ that serves as a barometer for his inner health. We tend to think of a horse's skin as just the envelope that contains all the important stuff. But the skin is an organ--the largest one your horse possesses.
As the Sperm Turns December/2008
Conception in the horse seems simple--a uniting of one healthy egg and one healthy sperm--but there is much more going on in this virtual soap opera of creating a new horse. Fertilization is the beginning of a new individual: the culmination of many biological processes working in concert to form a new life.
Managing Mules December/2008
More people today are turning to mules to take advantage of the temperament and work ethic of these horse/donkey crosses. The population of mules in the United States is growing, although their numbers are still calculated in the thousands, while horses are in the millions. However, more and more people are discovering that this lovable hybrid can be a joy to ride, pack, or just have around as a family pet.
Disease Control Yearly Planner November/2008
Guard against diseases on your farm year-round by employing these seasonal tips For a horse to perform to his utmost capacity, he must be healthy and sound throughout the year. The smallest details of farm management often have the greatest impact on a horse’s general wellness, and such strategies provide a critical template for minimizing the risk for contracting disease.
American Association of Equine Practitioners 2008 Convention Coverage November/2008
The annual convention of the aaep.org/">American Association of Equine Practitioners (AAEP) is the world's biggest educational event for equine veterinarians. It's a great place for veterinary students, veterinary technicians, farriers, and horse owners to get the latest information on the hottest horse health topics.
Keeping Stalled Horses Happy November/2008
No matter the reason your horse is stalled, you can keep him happy and comfortable. Angela Riddle gave her barn operators strict orders to turn her Tennessee Walking Horse Amicus Mack out for a full day at least twice each week. But during one of her frequent barn visits, Riddle soon noticed that her horse was less enthusiastic about his turnout time than she was.
The Heartbreak of Separation Anxiety November/2008
Separating horses from their buddies can be problematic and sometimes even dangerous to horse and handler—here’s how to ease the pain of separation anxiety. Separation anxiety is a relatively common condition among horses, and when it occurs, it can be problematic for owners and riders.
Equine Herpesvirus Update November/2008
While there are many types of herpesviruses that affect horses, EHV-1, with its neurologic effects and its penchant for spread amongst groups of horses, is garnering the most attention in the horse industry worldwide. Equine herpesvirus has been on the minds of many horse people over the past few years.
Cribbing: Can You Stop It? November/2008
A modified laser surgery has shown promise. Many horses kept in unnatural environments and subjected to the stress of performance careers resort to repetitive behaviors (called stereotypies) such as cribbing, weaving, or stall walking. The cribbing horse grabs a surface with his top incisors, arches his neck, opens his throat, and swallows air with a grunting sound and a backward pull of the head.
ACVIM Conference Highlights October/2008
Among the hot topics this year were nutritional supplements, infectious disease, and metabolism problems. What do nutritional supplements, infectious diseases, and snake bites have in common? All were considered "hot topics" in equine health at the 2008 American College of Veterinary Internal Medicine (ACVIM) Forum held at the Henry B. Gonzalez Convention Center in San Antonio, Texas.
The Latest on Clones October/2008
As scientists continue to unlock cloning's secrets, perfect its processes, and study the way genes express themselves in individuals, their successes will undoubtedly affect demand and future use. In March 2008 Prometea, a Haflinger mare and world's first cloned horse, foaled Pegaso in Cremona, Italy, making the colt the first offspring of an equine clone.
Don't Ignore Melanomas October/2008
The latest research indicates that equine practitioners and the general public need to understand that a melanoma is not just a benign bump. The statistics are a little daunting: Up to 80% of gray horses older than 15 years will develop at least one melanoma, a type of cancerous tumor. Approximately 30% of equine melanoma cases seen by at least one referral hospital had developed into extremely large, advanced, infiltrative, multinodular, metastasizing (spreading) or multicentric (having multiple centers of origin) lesions.
Update on Ulcers September/2008
For more than a decade equine gastric ulcer syndrome (EGUS) and colonic ulcers have been linked to performance and health problems in horses. Today research continues to improve our understanding of ulcers, and the results are beginning to help veterinarians develop new strategies for prevention and treatment. Ulcers In Three DaysRecent studies have shown that within just three days of a stress condition, a horse can develop gastric ulcers.
Who's Your Vet September/2008
Horse owners have noticed a shift in who their medical caregivers are, and that trend will continue in the coming decade For anyone with a horse, it might come as no surprise that in recent years you’ve been seeing a definite change in the complexion of the equine veterinary work force: more women. This trend has been steadily increasing over the past decade, not just in equine medicine, but in veterinary medicine in general, and in other countries as well.
Joint Injections: Pros and Cons September/2008
Joint injections can safely localize lameness or medicate a joint, but occasionally they can cause complications, too. Equine veterinarians recommend and perform joint injections for a variety of reasons. The two most common are 1) to anesthetize or "block" a joint to assist in lameness localization, and 2) to administer medications directly into the joint.
Overbreeding September/2008
Who is at fault for the "overabundance" of horses in the United States today? The "unwanted horse" dilemma in the United States is akin to the awakening of a sleeping giant. Just how major the problem is and who or what is the prime culprit are questions that are open to debate.
HIVES August/2008
Your horse is telling you there's something wrong; the problem is, it's in Braille At all times a horse’s body is under siege from the abundance of microorganisms present everywhere. A healthy immune system keeps these minute organisms at bay as inflammatory cells wage invisible battles to repel foreign proteins (antigens) attempting to invade the body.
New Treatments for Severe Colic August/2008
Addressing your horse’s clinical signs early is the key. Severe colic is characterized by intractable pain and signs of septic shock, which is any type of loss or poor distribution of blood supply caused by bacteria or their toxins. The bacterial toxin we most commonly think about is endotoxin, so horses are usually called endotoxemic when their gum color changes, the time it takes for the capillaries of the gums to refill after pressure from a finger (called capillary refill time) increases, and the heart rate remains elevated despite treatment for pain.
5 Hints for Hiring a Horse Sitter August/2008
Give careful consideration to your candidates to increase the odds of having a satisfactory outcome. "Just because someone has been in horses a long time and has done lots of things with horses doesn't necessarily mean they will recognize a problem. I do self-care at a barn down the road.
Hives: Identifying the Source July/2008
For the one-time occurrence of hives, you might never discover the incriminating source. However, if hives recur, you might be motivated to track the allergen. Start by mentally reconstructing any changes in diet, environment, medications, vaccinations, or stress factors that occurred in recent months.
Avoiding Colic Through Management July/2008
Turnout, diet, and water consumption are critical considerations when avoiding colic. The age-old disease of colic can best by managed be returning the horse--as much as possible--to its natural environment. This means horses should be turned out as often as their schedules and environments allow, and they should be fed rations composed predominantly of forage (grass or hay).
Multiple Pregnancies: Double the Trouble July/2008
The causes and management of equine multiple pregnancies. Multiple pregnancies are an increasing problem in breeding management. They are usually multizygotic (originating from several ova, i.e.
Understanding and Preventing Catastrophic Injuries July/2008
Following the euthanasia of filly Eight Belles, who suffered catastrophic injuries to both front legs a quarter mile after finishing second in the 2008 Kentucky Derby, members of every sector of the Thoroughbred industry have banded together to proactively address safety and welfare issues. In this article, representative members of the equine industry together provide an in-depth exploration of catastrophic injuries in the Thoroughbred racehorse, focusing on what veterinarians know about catastrophic injuries based on the available scientific data, and looking at what work is still to be done.
20 Hot Weather Trailering Tips July/2008
Keep your horses cooler, less stressed, and happier when hauling in hot, humid conditions The long road beckons: It's summer, and all kinds of diverse opportunities await you and your horse--shows, competitions, sales, trail riding, equine vacations, and more. Some events are just a couple of hours away, while others involve many hours, perhaps even a few days, of trailering.
Biosecurity on the Farm June/2008
Disease can come home with you in exposed horses, on your equipment, and even on your skin and clothing. Here’s how to avoid these scenarios and keep your horses healthy. Reducing the risk and frequency of contagious disease outbreaks can be a challenge, but the horse owner can do a few things to help control introduction or spread of diseases on a farm.
Treating Lymphangitis June/2008
Researchers are still pondering the cause of this lymph vessel problem that can result in long-lasting effects after the initial insult. At the end of the 2005 show season, Jen Gorsuch of Medinah, Ohio, anticipated an uneventful off season for her then-11-year-old Saddlebred mare, Aruba. Unfortunately, that wasn't to be the case.
Natural Fly Management May/2008
Control flies around your barn with tiny wasps that reduce fly populations, but don't sting horses or humans Controlling the flies around you and your horses is very important, not just because of the irritating bites, but because flies are also traveling vectors of disease. The housefly alone has been accused of spreading more than 30 bacterial and protozoal diseases.
Desensitizing Your Horse to Fly Spray May/2008
A HORSE'S LAMENT: How do I hate thee? Let me count the ways. 'Tis the rankest compound of villainous smell that ever offended nostril. Yonder vessel full of foul sound and fury. Cruel icy tears assailing my body.
Learning with Florida Vets May/2008
More than 170 equine practitioners from Florida gathered in the Bahamas to hear the latest on reproduction and sports medicine Ahhh, the Caribbean life ..
Oral Joint Supplements for Horses May/2008
Seven-step ACCLAIM system for choosing an oral joint health supplement. With scores of oral joint health supplements on the market, how do horse owners know which to buy? This article examines the current state of the equine nutritional supplement industry, and it presents a seven-step "ACCLAIM" approach for horse owners and trainers to rapidly assess oral joint health supplements in order to avoid poor-quality products. The nutritional supplement ("nutraceutical") industry has grown phenomenally over the past decade and is expected to grow by 15-25% per year until at least 2009.
Urinary Tract Problems April/2008
The urinary tract is a vital system that should never be taken for granted; if a problem develops, it can rapidly become a crisis (Editor's Note: Contributing to this article was Hal Schott, DVM, PhD, Dipl. ACVIM, associate professor in the Department of Large Animal Clinical Sciences at Michigan State University.
Problem Breeder Mare April/2008
Getting mares in foal sometimes can be a tall task. What do veterinarians involved with reproduction have in common with the fictitious Sherlock Holmes? Both play the role of detective in solving mysteries. With Arthur Conan Doyle's legendary character, the mystery generally involved identifying the perpetrator of a crime.
EPM Treatment April/2008
To understand the best approach to treating equine protozoal myeloencephalitis (EPM), it is helpful to have a brief look at how the protozoa (single-celled parasites) that cause EPM--Sarcocystis neurona--enter the central nervous system. David Granstrom, DVM, PhD, one of the pioneer researchers into EPM when he worked at the University of Kentucky's Gluck Equine Research Center, describes how the protozoa, as intracellular parasites, are able to evade a horse's immune response: "The immune system is constantly on the alert for anything penetrating the body that it does not recognize as 'self.
EPM Prevention April/2008
How can you keep your horses safe from EPM? The best way to keep your horses healthy is prevent them from getting sick. Sounds absurdly simple, right? In theory, this works. But in the real world of trying to protect horses from diseases such as equine protozoal myeloencephalitis (EPM), it isn't always that simple.
Lameness Exams in Horses March/2008
Lameness problems in horses are an ever-growing concern for horse owners. With a rising demand for top performance, the challenge is for veterinarians to keep up with improved diagnostics and treatment modalities. Furthermore, many work-ups today are related to improving performance, not just solving an obvious lameness issue, as subtle pain can hamper performance in any discipline.
Freeze Branding for Identification March/2008
A "humane form" of permanent identification. Branding of livestock traces all the way back the to the Middle Ages, when animals were identified by marks burned into their skins with a fiery stick. The practice gained impetus in the New World when Spanish landowners developed large herds of cattle that roamed across Mexico and eventually moved northward into what is now Texas.
Leptospirosis: What Is It? March/2008
Don’t overlook this "bug" that can cause abortion and uveitis (moon blindness). Many horse people don't know that much about leptospirosis. If you have heard of it, it is probably in reference to cattle, other livestock, or maybe dogs. However, leptospirosis does affect horses, and it can be the cause of some serious health problems, including abortion in pregnant mares and chronic uveitis (moon blindness).
Understanding Equine Influenza On-Demand Webinar February/2008
On Feb. 28, TheHorse.com hosted a Webinar on "Understanding Equine Influenza." More than 1,000 horse people from around the world registered to watch and participate in the live event, which included streamed video, audio, and a slide presentation featuring Tom Chambers, PhD, an associate professor in the Department of Veterinary Science at the University of Kentucky's Gluck Equine Research Center. He has headed the Office International des Epizooties (OIE, the World Organization for Animal Health) Reference Laboratory for equine influenza for 15 years at the University of Kentucky.
Emergency C-Section February/2008
With the right care, mare and foal can survive this critical event. The first step in the decision to do a Caesarean section is that all other forms of help have been exhausted. Often, C-section candidates have already been in labor for quite some time on the farm, where manual manipulation has been tried.
Ileus: When the Gut Stops February/2008
Ileus is one of the leading postoperative causes of death in horses. New research aims to better understand and manage this complication. Every so often, equine surgeons take a look back at all the colic surgeries they have performed over the years in an effort to answer some important questions. If a horse undergoes colic surgery, for example, what are the chances that horse will survive? If a horse survives surgery, what are the odds of complications in the days and weeks afterward? Complications are particularly frustrating to equine surgeons.
Tips to Predicting a Foal's Arrival February/2008
Familiarity with the foaling process and your mare is crucial to predicting birth, but you also can employ sensors, alarms, and video monitoring systems. The act of foaling by a mare is nothing short of explosive.
Becoming a Behaviorist February/2008
Veterinarians and nonveterinarians can pursue this growing field. What does it require to pursue a career as an animal behavioral consultant? I've heard the question a number of times. Sometimes the individual asking the question is a student just embarking on his or her path toward an occupation, or it might be an individual who has taken another career route, but finds animal behavior compelling due to their strengths and interests.
BEVA 2007: Identifying New Targets for Sarcoid Therapy January/2008
Ask a roomful of horse people if they've ever seen a sarcoid, and you'll probably see a bunch of hands rise, and many knowing nods or eyerolls of owners who have dealt with these frustrating, usually benign tumors. Sarcoids are the most common skin tumor of equids for which there is currently no universally effective treatment, according to Zhengqiang Yuan, PhD, a research scientist in veterinary pathological sciences at the University of Glasgow's veterinary school in Scotland.
BEVA 2007: List of Links to Articles January/2008
The Horse attended three days of the 46th British Equine Veterinary Association (BEVA) Congress held in Edinburgh, Scotland, last September. Following are some research highlights presented at the meeting. Read the February 2008 feature story on the event:
Hernias Explained January/2008
Bulges in the body wall could mean internal organs are out of place. A hernia is any rent or tear in the body wall that allows internal organs to push through into undesirable places. Any age or breed of horse can experience a hernia, and a hernia can occur in just about any location within the body wall.
Botulism: A Perfect Killer December/2007
Horses are highly susceptible to botulism toxins; vaccination and feed/water management are key to prevention. Botulism is an often-lethal disease caused by a bacterial toxin. Although the disease can affect nearly all warmblooded animals, it is particularly deadly in horses, because they are more sensitive to the effects of the toxin than other animals.
War Drum and The Basics December/2007
A horse that nearly was sent to the killers because of his dangerous habits learned "The Basics" and became a good citizen.  No one would ever mistake War Drum for a reining horse. At 16.
Enhancing Stallion Fertility December/2007
Science and good management are keys to keeping stallions at top breeding performance.  Another equine breeding season is only a short time away, with many breeding sheds opening their doors on Feb. 1.
Older Horses Part 6: The Final Decision December/2007
Sometimes it's up to the owner to decide when a horse dies As a veterinarian, I have spent a good bit of time involved with the care of sick animals, and many times have also attended their deaths. Over the years, it is something I have thought a lot about.
Video News: AAEP Convention 2007 November/2007
SPONSORED BY pfizerah.com/index_species.asp?country=US&lang=EN&species=EQ&drug=PU" target=_blank>PFIZER ANIMAL HEALTH pfizerah.com/index_species.
Freezing Embryos November/2007
With breed registries admitting more than one foal per mare per year, the use of frozen embryos is becoming more mainstream. The freezing of equine embryos is getting increased attention from researchers. For years embryo freezing for horses has lagged well behind the same procedure in the bovine industry.
The Airways and Lungs November/2007
The forgotten organs. By the time a horse crosses the finish line in a five-furlong race, has completed a Grand Prix show jumping round, or gone one-sixth of the way round a 3-star cross-country course, he will have moved somewhere around 1,800 liters of air in and out of the lungs. If you find 1,800 liters hard to visualize, then think of six bathtubs full of air.
Understanding Horses Part 11: Diagnose the Problem Before Trying to Fix It November/2007
There are many people looking for answers for their horses' problems. I've been talking to more and more people, and they all think they have different problems, but generally, horse problems boil down to one of four things: ground manners, under saddle problems, medical problems, and problems stemming from accidently learning the wrong behavior. We've discussed some of these things in earlier entries in this series, and it's important for horse owners to understand what their horses are trying to tell them.
Breeding Challenges of Older Mares November/2007
Older broodmares need a little extra attention.  Breeding an older mare is often challenging--not only in getting her in foal, but in having her carry the pregnancy to term and produce a healthy foal. Many breeders take on this challenge, however, since new technology and better ways to handle these mares have improved the chances for success.
Focus on Lameness November/2007
See what veterinarians and owners learned during the AAEP's late summer meeting on lameness. Want to know what veterinarians talk about when they get together? This year it was lameness. Late each summer the American Association of Equine Practitioners (AAEP) hosts a seminar focusing on one particular aspect of equine health.
West Nile Virus Presentation Available on TheHorse.com October/2007
A free web-based seminar ("Webinar") on West Nile virus hosted by The Horse on Oct. 2, 2007 is now archived and available in thehorse.com/Videos.aspx?tab=webinar">TheHorse'com's Video Library. Nearly 1,400 people registered for the presentation, which included streamed video, audio, and a slide presentation featuring Debra C.
Webinar: Understanding West Nile Virus On-Demand October/2007
A free web-based seminar ("Webinar") on West Nile virus hosted by The Horse on Oct. 2, 2007, is now archived and available on demand. Nearly 1,400 people registered for the presentation, which included streamed video, audio, and a slide presentation featuring Debra C. Sellon DVM, PhD, Dipl.
Understanding Horses Part 10: Stand Still October/2007
Horses often need to be restrained for the veterinarian, farrier, or groom. Foals present particular problems, as do horses that might have been mishandled or who have never been taught to be patient and respect their handlers. Here are a few tips for restraint.
Older Horses Part 4: Hoof and Joint Care October/2007
With a little management and extra care, older horses can lead healthy, useful lives well into their golden years. The aging process brings with it some inevitable changes in horses. As is often the case with humans, the horse's joints begin to "stiffen" as it gets older.
Treating Irregular Heartbeats October/2007
Chances are you know someone with a heart murmur--you might even have one yourself. Usually it's discovered at birth, and most often it's nothing to worry about. The heart is fine; it just makes a sound associated with blood flow.
Winding Down October/2007
Giving your horse a break from training can result in a healthier, happier horse--if you do it correctly.   "It's important to periodically back off from training, whether the athlete is a human or horse," says Trisha Dowling, DVM, MSc, Dipl. ACVIM, ACVCP, of Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, Canada.
Bye Bye Bad Bugs October/2007
Disinfection is not a dirty word! The following scenarios are based on fact; the names of the farms and diseases have been omitted purposely to worry you even more. Scenario 1 After a scenic weekend trail riding in the Ozarks with 50 other trail riding enthusiasts, you and your horse return home for some rest.
Understanding Horses Part 9: Sans Twitch September/2007
Anderson believes twitched horses are dangerous, and twitches aren't needed to tube, clip, trim/shoe, float, deworm, or medicate a horse. I have not put a twitch on a horse's nose in nearly 20 years. I don't believe in twitches.
Antibiotics September/2007
Most owners forget that antibiotics are drugs, and, if misused, they can cause short- and long-term problems for horses and, potentially, humans. Growing up in an era of modern medicine, the availability of antibiotics has been taken for granted. How often have you been asked if you are taking antibiotics for a cough or a sniffle? How many times have you seen a horse being administered antibiotics for a nonspecific fever or for a relatively superficial wound? Antibiotics have been impressive tools for improving health, yet they also pose one of the most pressing public health problems facing the medical community today.
Helping Horses with Heaves September/2007
Heaves is the equine equivalent to human asthma, with owner management as the key to preventing future episodes. If a horse can't breathe, he can't work. Unimpeded respiration is needed to supply working muscles with oxygen to fuel locomotion.
Older Horses Part 3: Vaccinations and Deworming September/2007
Experts share opinions and research on guidelines for deworming and vaccinating aging equines. Do older horses build immunity over the years, or lose it? Do they build a resistance to worms as time passes, or to deworming agents? With more equines than ever living long into their golden years, these are questions an increasing number of horse owners are having to face. Due to a lack of hard scientific research on older equids, the answers aren't cut-and-dry.
Got Bots? August/2007
Bots are pesky creatures, capable of causing irritation and physical damage to horses. They aren't categorized as being the worst of internal parasites, but they can cause problems externally and internally. The external aspect is primarily one of irritation to the horse.
EVA (Equine Viral Arteritis) Update August/2007
Over the past year there has been considerable fear in the breeding industry --especially the Quarter Horse industry--about the spread of equine viral arteritis (EVA). Although the disease has been around for a long time, confirmed outbreaks of EVA are relatively infrequent.
Feeds and Supplements for Older Horses August/2007
Equine nutritionists discuss a variety of feeds and feeding practices to help horses cope with the problems associated with growing old. As horses grow older, their nutrient needs change. This might be due to bad or missing teeth, changes in metabolism, or less efficient digestion.
Understanding Horses Part 8: Teaching the Movements August/2007
It's important to teach your horse to respect your personal space (Editor's Note: Last month we discussed the start of using pressure to work on ground manners. This month we continue.
Understanding Horses Part 7: Yielding to Pressure July/2007
I'm going to start discussing ground manners by talking about a 2-year-old colt from Arkansas who hadn't been handled much. He wasn't mean, he was just uneducated. I use a rope halter to give me a little more leverage and "bite" if the horse pulls back.
Beyond the Surface: Imaging Referral Practices July/2007
He's been poked and prodded, trotted in straight lines and flexed, hoof-tested and blocked, and yet there's nothing standing out in these examinations or on his X rays that would explain your horse's intermittent lameness. There are no obvious swellings, no apparent sensitivities to said prodding, and you can't recall an injury incident.
Older Horses: Dental Problems July/2007
As a horse ages, there is an ongoing wear and tear process that slowly, but steadily, erodes the animal's ability to be as productive and athletic as he was during earlier years. Nowhere is this more evident than with his teeth.
Tapeworms July/2007
Tapeworms are becoming more of an issue in horses as we learn more about how they affect horse health. Some regions of the country have a greater risk of equine tapeworm problems. In the upper Midwest (Wisconsin and Minnesota), for instance, studies have shown more than 80% of the horse population has been exposed to tapeworms.
Bandaging Horses June/2007
Bandaging has been done in one way or another throughout the ages. In fact, the basics of the concept have really not changed much through the centuries. Sounds simple, right? Well, if you get on the Internet to research bandaging, you will find lots of "how-to" articles that give a great description of exactly how to apply various types of bandages.
Orthodontics for Horses June/2007
Orthodontics is the study of tooth movement and alignment. It includes normal and abnormal tooth movement, bone growth, tooth eruption, and shedding of baby teeth. In general it is a study of the young, growing patient.
Safe and Healthful Stall Mats June/2007
So you have decided to invest in rubber mats for your stalls. What now? In this article, we'll compare some of the available features, and we'll give you points to consider when refining the requirements for your barn. An important consideration when choosing stall mats is the existing floor in your stalls.
Understanding Horses Part 6: Trailer Loading, Part 2 June/2007
Last month we talked about how to aggravate the horse to load into a trailer. Remember, this isn't beating the horse or getting angry. It's like the horsefly being able to make a 1,000-pound horse move. You merely make it more comfortable to be inside the trailer than outside.
EPM Today: Testing and Treatments June/2007
Horses need to be serviceably sound and safe to ride to fulfill their functions. It is no wonder that equine protozoal myeloencephalitis (EPM) has been a dreaded disease ever since its rise to prominence in the 1990s, because horses with neurologic disease often don't recover to their previous athletic capacity. Neurologic problems, in general, can be some of the most unforgiving types of diseases to treat in horses.
Bluegrass Laminitis Symposium: Correcting Crushed Heels May/2007
We've all seen them, and many of us have owned them--those horses with no heels to speak of. We know that "strong" heels are important for soundness, but what can we do to rebuild those crushed, underrun heels? At the 2007 Bluegrass Laminitis Symposium, Richard Mansmann, VMD, PhD, clinical professor and director of the North Carolina State University College of Veterinary Medicine’s Equine Podiatry and Rehabilitation Service, discussed the various causes of crushed heels, how to avoid them, and how to treat them. "We see a lot of chronically lame horses trying to work with long-toe, low-heel conformation," he began.
Dentistry Part 5: Surgical Procedures May/2007
The field of equine dentistry is as broad as the field of human dentistry. While your family dentist receives special training in a wide range of topics on general dental care, the endodontist, orthodontist, periodontist, and oromaxillofacial surgeon receive special training to care for more complex problems involving the dentition and the intricate structures of the head. The range of equine dental procedures and/or treatments extend from simple tooth floating (equilibration) and minor tooth extraction or superficial oral wound repair, to the detailed surgical repair of extensive oral/facial defects that involve numerous structures in the head.
Diagnostic Imaging for Lameness May/2007
There was a time when diagnosing lameness was basic-watch the horse travel, determine where you think the problem might be, and take a guess at what's causing it. Then came X rays, ultrasound, CT (computed tomography) scans, scintigraphy (bone scans), magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), and the ability to take an inside look at bones and tissues.
Pain Management for the Laminitic Horse May/2007
Laminitis is an incredibly painful hoof disease in the horse. We should all be very aware of this since despite top-notch care, 2006 Kentucky Derby winner Barbaro was humanely euthanatized due to unresolvable pain from laminitis. Laminitis strikes with varying severity, causing disparate levels of pain in individual horses; pain management is an important humane aspect of caring for these horses.
Understanding Horses Part 5: Trailer Loading Part 1 May/2007
The reason most horses don't load in trailers is that owners have studiously trained them to not load. Horses learn this by accident. The horse gets led up to the trailer and decides not to go in and turns sideways. Then the owner leads him away and pets him in order to get a "straight shot" at loading again.
Bluegrass Laminitis Symposium: Learning to Read Radiographs (X Rays) May/2007
When you're talking about evaluating a horse's foot, a radiograph or X ray can tell you a whole lot more than just whether there's a fracture or not. When the radiograph is taken to show soft tissue detail as well as bone, it can provide tons of information on the health of the various soft tissues within that foot. Reading such radiographs takes a trained eye, and it's an important part of evaluating the horse's foot, especially when lameness exists.
Bluegrass Laminitis Symposium: Venograms: The Difference Between Success and Failure with Laminitis May/2007
What's one big difference between a successful surgery and an unsuccessful one? Accurate knowledge of the problem, and a plan for treatment based on that knowledge, before the patient ever hits the surgical table. The same can be said of treating a horse with laminitis--success depends on several factors, but an accurate knowledge of the extent of the damage within the feet and a plan for treating it is paramount.
Bluegrass Laminitis Symposium: How to Use Digital Venograms to Evaluate Laminitis May/2007
"The venogram is the ticket to fixing all those laminitis cases you've been missing," Amy Rucker, DVM, said at the Bluegrass Laminitis Symposium (held Jan. 25-28 in Louisville, Ky.
Bluegrass Laminitis Symposium: Communication Strategies for Improving Vet-Client-Farrier Relations May/2007
When a horse has a foot problem that involves both the farrier and the veterinarian, the owner, and possibly a trainer and/or an insurance agent, communications can get more than complicated. They can snarl into a convoluted tangle of terminology and "he said, she said" that leaves everyone unhappy, including the horse.
Bluegrass Laminitis Symposium: What we Know About Laminitis May/2007
When it comes to laminitis, everyone's got a pet theory--their favorite explanation of why it occurs, how to prevent it, and/or how to treat it. The reason we have these theories is because research hasn't yet been able to give us solid, unassailable explanations for much of the disease's processes and treatment. But there are some concepts that we do know, for sure, about laminitis.
Bluegrass Laminitis Symposium: What is a Healthy Hoof? May/2007
Ask ten people what a healthy hoof should look like, and you'll likely get ten variations of an answer. And those answers will likely consist of general statements like "proper toe angle," "enough heel," or "plenty of foot mass." But what exactly does that mean? Richard Mansmann VMD, PhD, clinical professor and director of the North Carolina State University College of Veterinary Medicine’s Equine Podiatry and Rehabiliation Service, has spent a lot of time and effort investigating foot measurements in horses to answer that question.
Bluegrass Laminitis Symposium: Self-Adjusting Palmar Angles for Healing Hooves May/2007
Massage is a wonderfully relaxing, healing experience. As you stretch out comfortably on the table and the massage therapist's hands alternate pressure and release over your sore muscles, they begin to relax, blood flow improves, and you begin feeling better. Why else would you get one? The same principles apply to your horse's feet.
Bluegrass Laminitis Symposium: New Treatments for Foal Deformities May/2007
Isn't it just a rotten feeling to look at your foal and notice for the first time that he's crooked? Even if you have your veterinarian and farrier on speed dial and they're already on the way to work miracles, you can't help but worry if the foal will straighten out enough to make a good sale and/or a good athlete. Angular and flexural limb deformities in foals are concerns, to be sure, but they're not necessarily kisses of death.
Bluegrass Laminitis Symposium: Fighting White Line Disease April/2007
White line disease sneaks up on you without warning--one day your horse is fine, and the next day the farrier is digging a crater in your horse's foot, dumping what seems like handfuls of soft, crumbly hoof horn on the floor. You might ask, what the heck is white line disease? Why is it such a big deal? Your horse isn't even lame, although you fear he might be soon with that new crater in his foot.
Bluegrass Laminitis Symposium: Laminitis Lessons: What Not to Do April/2007
"Any of us dealing with laminitis have our successes, but we've also had our share of failures," said Bill Baker, DVM, of Equine Associates in Hawkinsville, Ga., at the recent Bluegrass Laminitis Symposium.
Bluegrass Laminitis Symposium: Laminitis: Coming Out of the Dark April/2007
Some people make it their life's work to study and shed light on some poorly understood aspect of equine veterinary medicine. Their trailblazing work changes the way we evaluate and understand that problem, and it provides the information we need to improve how we care for horses in today's world. Italian equine podiatry veterinarian Lorenzo D'Arpe, DVM, of the University of Padua's Department of Clinical Sciences, is one such pioneer, and his chosen field is equine laminitis.
Dentistry Part 4: Periodontal Disease April/2007
At last! The day's work is done and you are free to enjoy some time with your horse. There is a spring in your step as you gather up your barn gear. You slice a crisp red apple for your pal and suddenly realize that in your rush to get to the barn you forgot to eat lunch! Your buddy won't mind, surely, if you share a bit of his apple. Just as you thought .
Lab Cytology Tests April/2007
Cytology, the study of cells, involves the collection and examination of cells and fluid from organs, tissues, and body cavities. Cells naturally shed from the surfaces of mucous membranes, organs, and skin lesions, and they can be collected for examination. Veterinarians can use washes to collect fluid and cells from difficult-to-reach tissues such as the respiratory tract, the guttural pouch, and the reproductive tract.
Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs) April/2007
We keep them in our barns, give them to our animals, and take them ourselves. Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are common, but they aren't benign. In this article we'll investigate what NSAIDs are and aren't, and what we should know when treating our horses.
Understanding Horses Part 4: An Epic Day April/2007
People are shocked that I give my horses treats. I tell them there's a big difference in giving your horse treats, and him demanding treats. My horses don't demand treats. I don't show them treats before I catch them.
Feet First: Farriery Topics from the 2006 AAEP Convention April/2007
The annual convention of the American Association of Equine Practitioners, held in San Antonio, Texas, in early December 2006, had three sessions devoted to foot care that were open to farriers. Following are synopses of some of those presentations.
AAEP Convention 2006: Digestive Health March/2007
com/ViewArticle.aspx?ID=9190">thehorse.com/enews/images/AAEP_w-u2006_logo2.jpg" align=left border=2> AAEP State of the Art Lecture: Colic Each year the American Association of Equine Practitioners (AAEP) elects an outstanding practitioner and awards him or her the Frank J. Milne trophy to recognize a lifetime of service in a particular area of expertise.
AAEP Convention 2006: Obese Horses March/2007
com/ViewArticle.aspx?ID=9190">thehorse.com/enews/images/AAEP_w-u2006_logo2.jpg" align=left border=2> Adipobiology (The Study of Fat in the Body): An Emerging Field What exactly does stored fat do to a horse's body? It wreaks serious havoc on at least 11 vital body functions. Nat Messer, DVM, Dipl.
AAEP Convention 2006: Lameness March/2007
com/ViewArticle.aspx?ID=9190">thehorse.com/enews/images/AAEP_w-u2006_logo2.jpg" align=left border=2> Oral Joint Supplements: Do They Work? In 2005, nutraceutical sales reached more than $1 billion for companion animals. That number is expected to double in the next three years.
AAEP Convention 2006: Horse Management March/2007
com/ViewArticle.aspx?ID=9190">thehorse.com/enews/images/AAEP_w-u2006_logo2.jpg" align=left border=2> Keep Old Horses Healthy "How do we tell when a horse is aged?" asked Nancy Loving, DVM, who owns Loving Equine Clinic in Boulder, Colo., at the recent Healthy Horses Workshop for horse owners (held Dec.
AAEP Convention 2006: Medicine March/2007
com/ViewArticle.aspx?ID=9190">thehorse.com/enews/images/AAEP_w-u2006_logo2.jpg" align=left border=2> Uplifting Applications for UC Davis Large Animal Lift John Madigan, DVM, MS, Dipl. ACVIM, professor of medicine and epidemiology and section chief of equine medicine at the University of California, Davis, developed the UC Davis Large Animal Lift (LAL) with colleagues over the last several years.
AAEP Convention 2006: Reproduction March/2007
com/ViewArticle.aspx?ID=9190">thehorse.com/enews/images/AAEP_w-u2006_logo2.jpg" align=left vspace=10 border=2> Reproduction Forum Drug compounding, the ethics of treating cryptorchids, and sexually transmitted diseases were the hot topics discussed by equine practitioners at the Reproduction Forum, led by Steven Brinsko, DVM, PhD, Dipl. ACT, associate professor of theriogenology at Texas A&M University, and Mats Troedsson, DVM, PhD, Dipl.
AAEP Convention 2006: Muscle Disorders March/2007
com/ViewArticle.aspx?ID=9190">thehorse.com/enews/images/AAEP_w-u2006_logo2.jpg" align=left border=2> Diagnostic Approach To Equine Muscle Disorders Stephanie Valberg, DVM, PhD, professor of large animal medicine and director of the University of Minnesota's Equine Center, began the in-depth seminar on muscle disorders by discussing diagnosis of muscle disorders, beginning with a careful physical exam and concise history of the clinical problem. She said in most cases, a muscle disorder arises from one of the following situations: muscle strain, exertional rhabdomyolysis (tying-up), weakness and exercise intolerance, abnormal muscle contraction and nerve conduction, or muscle atrophy.
AAEP Convention 2006: Dermatology March/2007
com/ViewArticle.aspx?ID=9190">thehorse.com/enews/images/AAEP_w-u2006_logo2.jpg" align=left border=2> Dermatology Discussions Stephen White, DVM, Dipl. ACVD, a professor in the Department of Medicine and Epidemiology at the University of California, Davis, School of Veterinary Medicine, and Anthony Yu, DVM, MS, Dipl.
AAEP Convention 2006: Additional Topics March/2007
com/ViewArticle.aspx?ID=9190">thehorse.com/enews/images/AAEP_w-u2006_logo2.jpg" align=left border=2> Western Performance Horse Forum The Western performance horse industry is growing at an astonishing rate, and along with that growth, there are unique health issues that need to be addressed. The Western Performance Horse Forum--moderated by Jerry Black, DVM, of Pioneer Equine Hospital in Oakdale, Calif.
AAEP Convention 2006: News and Awards March/2007
com/ViewArticle.aspx?ID=9190">thehorse.com/enews/images/AAEP_w-u2006_logo2.jpg" align=left border=2> The 52nd annual convention of the American Association of Equine Practitioners was heralded as one of the best in recent years for practical, take-home information. It was held Dec.
Understanding Horses: Basics #2 and #3 March/2007
Last month we started talking about the three things every horse needs to know to make his rider happy. My hero, champion reining horse owner and trainer Dick Pieper, told me I had been making the training of my horses way too complicated. "You should teach the horse to do three things and expand on those," he told me.
Choosing to Breed During Foal Heat March/2007
If a barn full of people were asked their opinion about breeding a mare during foal heat, a barn full of opinions would result. This topic has been controversial for a long time. There is debate about whether it is harmful to a mare's health, whether it negatively impacts fertility, and whether it causes an increase in fetal loss during pregnancy.
Equine Welfare Organizations March/2007
From the Mustang protection issue to slaughter bills, equine welfare concerns are getting plenty of attention in the mainstream media. Behind these issues are equine welfare organizations working hard to make a change in horses' lives. Some of the organizations are well known, while others are more obscure.
Dentistry Series Part 3: Malocclusions March/2007
In the last two installments of this equine dental series, you've digested an overview of the basics of equine dentistry, and I hope you've gained an understanding of just why dental care for horses is rising to the forefront of equine veterinary medicine. You've also been indoctrinated into the intricacies of a thorough equine dental exam.
Mini Management 101 March/2007
The small size of Miniature Horses and Donkeys belies their strength and hardiness. Explains Mikelle Roeder, PhD (animal physiology), professional animal scientist and equine nutritionist for Land O'Lakes Purina Feed, "The diminutive stature and extreme efficiency of Miniature Horses and Donkeys made them successful in harsh environments where nutrients were scarce and larger animals simply could not obtain adequate nutrition to survive. Their genetic heritage is one of great metabolic efficiency.
Rhodococcus equi March/2007
From the moment a newborn foal exits the warm fluid environment of its gestation and draws a first postpartum breath of air, it is exposed to millions of would-be invaders that would do it harm if not for the components of the foal's immune system, which are myriad in number and elegant in their complex yet coordinated interactions. Foals are born precocious, meaning that they are designed and equipped to become ambulatory and travel in the protective custody of a herd within hours of being born (contrast this with the situation in humans, in which newborn infants are helpless and completely dependent on adult care for years).
Serology March/2007
The horse's immune system is a window to its world. The biochemical analysis of blood components can give the veterinarian valuable information about disease exposure and immune responses. When a horse is exposed to an antigen (a disease-causing substance, often a microorganism, that stimulates the immune system), the immune system responds by producing antibodies to block infection.
AAEP 2006 Wrap-Up: Colic and Digestive Health March/2007
Each year the AAEP awards an outstanding practitioner the Frank J. Milne trophy to recognize a lifetime of service in a particular area of expertise. The 2006 designate was Nat White II, DVM, MS, Dipl. ACVS, the Jean Ellen Shehan Professor and director of the Marion duPont Scott Equine Medical Center at the Virginia-Maryland Regional College of Veterinary Medicine, and chairman of the AAEP Foundation Advisory Committee.
Hormone and Drug Use in the Stallion February/2007
Many hormone and drug treatments could have a negative impact on the endocrine system, so it's best to avoid using them altogether in the breeding stallion. However, Sue M.
Reproductive Evaluation of the Stallion February/2007
When a veterinarian is considering a stallion's suitability as a breeding animal, the horse's history, current physical condition, and libido are just as important as his semen quality. "It's not just the semen we're looking at, it's the whole package," said Steven Brinsko, DVM, MS, PhD, Dipl.
New Developments in Stallion Nutrition February/2007
Name a part of your horse you'd like to enhance--anything from his coat or hooves to his stamina--and there's likely a supplement for it. Marketed alongside the products that improve joint function and breathing ability, there are supplements advertised to help improve stallion breeding performance. According to Steven Brinsko, DVM, MS, PhD, Dipl.
Back to Nature: Simplifying Management Might Reduce Breeding-Induced Endometritis February/2007
Modern breeding management and assisted reproduction might actually exacerbate the issue of mating-induced endometritis, according to Mats Troedsson, DVM, PhD, Dipl. ACT, a professor of equine theriogenology in the Department of Large Animal Clinical Sciences, at the University of Florida's College of Veterinary Medicine.
It Hurts So Good: Using Acupuncture in the Treatment of Reproductive Disorders February/2007
Acupuncture can be a valuable alternative for the treatment of reproductive disorders, according to Rhonda Rathgeber, DVM, PhD, an acupuncturist certified through the International Veterinary Acupuncture Society (IVAS). Rathgeber provided an introduction to the workings of acupuncture, as well as its applications in reproductive work at the Hagyard Bluegrass Equine Symposium, which was held Oct.
Diagnosis, Management, and Diagnostic Investigation of Abortion February/2007
Careful management of pregnant mares and preparation for parturition is essential to help prevent cases of equine abortion--losses of pregnancy between 150-300 days of gestation. "The incidence of abortion in mares ranges from 5-15%, and this has a severe economic impact on the equine industry," said Karen Wolfsdorf, DVM, Dipl.
Immunostimulant Helps Mares with Endometritis Maintain Pregnancy February/2007
"Post-breeding endometritis is a major cause of subfertility, affecting approximately 15% of mares," said John Steiner, DVM, Dipl. ACT, of Hagyard Equine Medical Institute. "We know it's a big problem, so we've tried an adjunct treatment to see if this would help.
Another Approach to Equine Castration February/2007
The use of the Stone Henderson Equine Castration Instrument, which allows veterinarians to geld colts using an attachment on a battery-powered drill, has gained speed since its debut at the 2005 American Association of Equine Practitioners' Convention. John Steiner, DVM, Dipl.
New Twin Reduction Procedure February/2007
"We know that twinning has a profound impact on the mare," said Karen Wolfsdorf, DVM, Dipl. ACT, of Hagyard Equine Medical Institute. "The presence of twins post-fixation (after the embryonic vesicle becomes stationary on about the 16th day after ovulation and fertilization) can be devastating economically with the potential loss of both fetuses and a reduced rate of fertility the following season. Wolfsdorf and her colleagues have been using a novel reduction technique for about four years that she described at the Hagyard Bluegrass Equine Reproduction Symposium 2006, which was held Oct.
Postpartum Complications in the Mare February/2007
If your mare experiences complications following foaling, it's important to note when they arise, said Walter Zent, DVM, a veterinarian at Hagyard Equine Medical Institute in Lexington, Ky., in his presentation at the 2006 Hagyard Bluegrass Equine Reproduction Symposium, which was held Oct.
Buserelin Use in the Anestrus Mare February/2007
A compounded drug has shown considerable promise in treating anestrus mares--those that are not cycling and thus are difficult to impregnate. Walter Zent, DVM, of Hagyard Equine Medical Institute, described his experience using Buserelin in mares at the Hagyard Bluegrass Equine Symposium, held Oct. 18-21 in Lexington, Ky.
Fetal Sex Determination in the Mare Between 90 and 150 Days February/2007
Accurate determination of fetal sex can have a profound impact on the broodmare management practices of horse owners and breeders. While the gender of a foal influences its value, it also influences the value of the gravid (pregnant) mare. Knowing fetal sex prior to foaling allows horse owners and breeders to make timely, informed management decisions, including those related to foaling location and subsequent mating of the mare.
Induction of Lactation in the Non-Pregnant Mare February/2007
Poor milk production or the loss of a mare in the peripartum period (occurring in the last month of gestation or the first few months after delivery) can jeopardize the health and viability of the foal. To provide the foal with an alternate source of milk, the horse owner might opt to hand-rear the foal using a milk replacement formula, or pair the foal with a lactating nurse mare.
Systemic Therapy in the High-Risk Mare February/2007
Several conditions can threaten pregnancy in the late gestational mare. C.S. Bailey, DVM, who is completing a theriogenology residency at the University of Florida and Hagyard Equine Medical Institute in Lexington, Ky., said some of these conditions might warrant the use of therapeutic agents, in spite of limited knowledge about their efficacy or their ability to penetrate fetal membranes.
Dopamine and Its Evil Twin Ergovaline February/2007
In the horse, the hormone dopamine exerts a number of effects through its actions on the pituitary gland. Both dopamine and ergovaline, a dopaminergic agonist (a drug that stimulates dopamine receptors), can significantly impact the mare's reproductive cycle, said Valerie J. Linse, MS, DVM, of Hagyard Equine Medical Institute, during her presentation at the Hagyard Bluegrass Equine Reproduction Symposium 2006, which was held Oct.
Reproductive Field Surgery February/2007
Castration and Caslick's procedures generally come to mind at the mention of reproductive surgeries that can be performed in the field, but Dwayne Rodgerson, DVM, MS, Dipl. ACVS, of Hagyard Equine Medical Institute, says there are plenty of other reproductive surgeries that he performs in the field on a regular basis.
Understanding Horses: Basic Movement #1 February/2007
Champion reining horse owner/trainer Dick Pieper is my hero. I was showing and winning, but I wasn't completely happy with my reiners. In less than an hour under Dick's tutelage, I learned more than I had in the last 20 years. He said I was making this whole training thing too complicated.
Endometritis Diagnosis and Management February/2007
When a mare is bred by natural cover, the uterine lining, or endometrium, becomes inflamed. The stallion deposits semen in the uterus, as well as bacteria, bits of debris, and seminal fluid. The normally sterile uterus becomes irritated and inflamed, resulting in acute endometritis (inflammation of the endometrium).
From Breeding to Birth February/2007
Testing innovative techniques and brushing up on common procedures are the lifeblood of advancing any medical specialty, and the field of equine reproduction is no exception. Veterinarians are always looking for new ways to improve procedures they use every day in their clinical practices, and there's no better time to convene than in late fall, which is the "calm before the storm" that precedes foaling and breeding season.
Immunotherapy for Broodmares February/2007
Endometritis has been the bane of many broodmares and their owners through the years. It frequently has been blamed for mares not becoming pregnant and, when they do conceive, for early embryonic death. The result has been serious economic losses when the disease strikes.
Neonatal Nuances February/2007
The first days of a foal's life can be risky; there are a number of things that can go wrong. Some problems can be dealt with easily (such as constipation), while others are life-threatening (such as a ruptured bladder). In this article, Bonnie Barr, VMD, Dipl.
Oral Examination of the Horse February/2007
Does your horse toss his head when loose, in hand, or under saddle? Does he fight the bit? Does he resist being bridled or haltered? Is he underweight despite proper feeding and deworming programs? These are just a few of the possible signs indicating your horse needs a quality oral exam by a competent veterinary medical provider. Horse owners must understand how such an exam is performed and when to have one done.
Embryo Transfer: Who's Your Mama? February/2007
Embryo transfer (ET)--recovering the embryo from a bred donor mare for placement into a recipient mare that will carry and raise the foal--has become a useful reproductive tool for a growing number of breeders. Mares that are competing, or mares that can't carry a foal to term because of physical or age-related problems, now can have registered offspring.
What's Wrong? (Understanding Horses) January/2007
How do you tell if a horse has a physical, behavioral, or a training problem? Once you rule out a physical condition, are the other two options that different from one another? Andy Anderson, DVM, grew up training, riding, and showing horses on his father's ranch in Broken Arrow, Okla. He says he has learned much through the years from many people in his lifetime of riding reining horses, and he has refined and put to use these concepts and those he has gleaned in his 30 years of equine veterinary practice.
Dental Hygiene January/2007
Horse owners often ask me, "Doc, could you float my horse's teeth?" Horses do need their teeth floated on a regular schedule; the frequency might change with the horse's age. Something that doesn't change with age is the need for a thorough oral and dental examination.
Early Arrivals December/2006
Premature deliveries don't occur frequently, but when they do, difficult decisions must often be made: How much supportive care should be given to the preemie foal? Does the preemie stand a reasonable chance of being the sound, healthy competitor or broodmare you were breeding for? Will the outcome be worth the veterinary expense? And what about your mare? Will she suffer chronic problems as a result of her early delivery or be prone to similar problems in the future? Here's a little help understanding premature deliveries and the preemie foal that will help you answer these questions if the need arises. Early Signs? Although normal gestation in a mare is considered to be 340-342 days, some mares routinely deliver their otherwise full-term foals up to a week or more early, while others deliver two weeks late.
Basics of Life December/2006
Reproduction in all species borders on the miraculous. How else can one describe a process where two infinitesimal entities, one from the male, the other from the female, join forces to produce living, breathing offspring? Reproductive capability or success varies by species. Mice and rabbits, for example, are prolific producers of offspring.
Unwanted Ingredients November/2006
Is your stud a dud? About one in 10 breeding stallions can't perform up to expectations due to subfertility or infertility. Causes for reduced breeding performance are many: Age, injury, genetics, management, or disease. Two are readily identifiable, but not completely understood, conditions--urospermia and hemospermia, respectively meaning urine in the semen and blood in the semen.
Anatomy and Physiology Part 11: Of Blood and Breath November/2006
There are few similarities between horses and automobiles, but in a manner of speaking, the horse's circulatory and respiratory systems constitute its engine. The food a horse consumes is its fuel.
Focus on Dentistry November/2006
Each year, the American Association of Equine Practitioners (AAEP) hosts a three-day meeting on a single topic in equine medicine or surgery. This year the topic was dentistry, and the meeting was held in Indianapolis, Ind., July 30-Aug.
AAEP Convention 2006 Preview November/2006
Why should horse owners care about this year's annual convention of the American Association of Equine Practitioners' (AAEP), Dec. 2-6? Several reasons. First, despite veterinarians' busy schedules, they are always striving to learn what is new so they can use it in practice and pass that information along to horse owners.
Flying Horses November/2006
For humans, it seems a fairly simple process to take a plane trip, with the most complicated portion involving transportation to the airport or the wait in security lines. But what must transpire to get a horse aboard a jet and fly him thousands of miles to a foreign land? As a team veterinarian for the United States Equestrian Federation's (USEF) endurance squad, I accompanied the horses from New York to Dubai for the 2005 World Championship endurance race.
Internal Insights October/2006
Veterinary internal medicine is a growing specialty that boasts nearly 400 large animal internal medicine specialists, many of them focusing on horses. In a time when humans seek out experts in varying medical fields, it's only logical that we seek the same for our animals.
Food Factory October/2006
The equine digestive system is a complicated factory that is designed to process small amounts of food frequently and convert them into nutrients that can be absorbed and produce energy. The same, concerning the end result, could be said of the cow, pig, dog, cat, or even man.
Blue's Clues October/2006
The foal flutters his eyelids in the dawning hours during his first day of his life. He stands, wobbles around his dam, and finally nurses, showing the vigorous signs of a healthy newborn. Now that the foal has safely made its way into the world, the breeder starts inventorying exactly what she has in front of her: a colt.
Bad to the Bone October/2006
It began with a common paddock accident--crashing into a rail--and progressed into a bone infection. After several months of nursing and repeated surgeries, veterinary efforts failed to save the life of Alywow, a former Canadian Horse of the Year and million-dollar-plus Thoroughbred broodmare. While bone infections don't automatically end with euthanasia, they can be difficult to treat.
Corticosteroids: Short- and Long-Term Effects October/2006
Of the medications available in the arsenal of anti-inflammatory therapies, there is one type that has caused considerable debate. This is the class of drugs known as corticosteroids. Present naturally to some degree in all animals, corticosteroids are normally produced by the adrenal glands.
Anatomy and Physiology: Tendons and Ligaments September/2006
Tendons and ligaments in the horse are the "belts" and "cables" that hold bones in place and allow the muscles to do their jobs in creating propulsion-- forward, backward, sideways, and up and down. Because of the workload often put upon them, tendons and ligaments are frequent sites of injury and disease.
Body Builders--Muscles August/2006
Muscles are one of the most important components in the equine body. Without them, the horse would be unable to walk, chew food, digest it, or even swish his tail. Muscles comprise the largest tissue mass in the horse's body.
The Equine Back: Conformation and Injuries July/2006
Horses have been carrying burdens on their backs since man discovered that he could cover more ground faster while riding a horse as opposed to striding along on his own two legs. Man also discovered that it was far less strenuous to pack a load on a horse's back rather than on his own.
More Than a Bad Habit July/2006
Many horses are kept in an unnatural environment--confined in stalls or small pens. Some of them resort to repetitive behaviors such as cribbing, weaving, or stall walking. Most of these horses are fed concentrated, high-energy rations they consume quickly, leaving them with lots of energy, but little to do.
Hurricane Update: Healing Storm Scars July/2006
The ghastly, distressing images on network television and in newspapers aren't there to haunt our daily lives, but post-Katrina destruction remains a bitter reality for many horse owners in the Gulf Coast region. For some, the wounds of Katrina are deep, whether they have resulted from traumatic experiences during and in the immediate aftermath of the storm, grief over horses lost, or the continual struggle to find feed and hay for surviving animals.
Stem Cell Therapy June/2006
They were a couple of hard-luck cases: Two horses with torn suspensory ligaments. For close to two years they were lame, their injuries unresponsive to conventional therapies, with no effective means of resolution in the offing. Recalls Doug Herthel, DVM, Alamo Pintado Equine Medical Center, Los Olivos, Calif.
Veterinary Education Abroad June/2006
Owning horses is, by default, continuing education. Veterinarians are required to receive a certain number of hours of continuing education to maintain their licenses. Many practitioners take training above and beyond what is required by law simply because they want to learn, and because there are so many new developments in various areas of equine veterinary practice.
Anatomy and Physiology Part 6: The Head and Neck June/2006
The equine head can be compared to a computer. Housed within the skull are the major components--the brain and the sense organs. In addition to functioning like a computer, the equine head contains teeth for cropping grass and chewing food, and all of the necessary components for moving the food to the digestive system, as well as housing the respiratory apparatus that allows for air to be inspired and expired. Connecting the head to the rest of the body is the neck, which also serves as an important element of balance as well as containing vertebrae and a continuation of tubes for the movement of food, water, air, and blood.
Pasture Makeover May/2006
As the snow recedes and green starts to reappear in your pastures, do you see bare spots, or areas with too many weeds? Has your grass production diminished to the point that what used to be your main source of forage now is only a playground? Are there poisonous weeds in your pasture? Has the clover taken over, limiting grass production or making the pasture too nutrient-dense for your easy keepers? If so, spring is the best time to renovate your pastures to make full use of this growing season so that by fall you can have a healthy, nutritious, productive pasture again. Renovate or Start Over? A little tender loving care can turn some pathetic pastures into prolific producers with a minimum of effort and expense.
Safe Paths, Safe Plants May/2006
Some elements of an equestrian facility shouldn't be taken for granted--solid fencing, sturdy shelter, and good arena footing among them. Then there are areas that sometimes get less attention than they deserve. Pathways around the farm often fall into that first category of inattention, while poisonous plants can, sometimes tragically, fall into the second.
Toning Up Rings May/2006
If your indoor or outdoor arena is less than you hoped it would be, join the club. Heading up the short list of common complaints is footing--too slick, too hard, too uneven, too dusty, drains too slowly or so quickly it takes the footing with it. After that, take your pick of problems: Wrong size for your sport; drab, dark, and unappealing; fences and gates in disrepair.
Nine Steps to a Better Feed Room May/2006
The best, most convenient feed rooms are organized, accessible, and easy to keep clean. That's important enough if you only have one or two horses, but once the numbers start increasing, these elements become imperative. Here are nine features--major and minor--that can make your feed room a safer and healthier place for you and your horses.
Ridin' Fence May/2006
There are many options available today for horse owners when installing or redoing pen and pasture fencing. The first thought should be the safety of the horses. Sometimes a fencing makeover will mean tearing out all of the old fence and replacing it.
Run-In Shed Makeover May/2006
You've watched your horses hide in their run-in sheds from the harsh elements all winter. Now, they're finally ready to trade its protection for the sun's warm rays giving you the perfect opportunity to make a few improvements. While safety is the most important reason to make changes, it isn't the only one.
Retrofit Your Rig May/2006
Of the many things you ask your horse to do, few are as totally unnatural and potentially hazardous to his health as asking him to climb into a metal box and trundle down the road for hours on end. To make the trailering experience as low-stress and as safe as possible for your horse, new trailers offer a bevy of special features, from bright white interiors to high-tech suspension systems.
Water Makeovers on the Farm May/2006
There are many things to consider when supplying water for horses. If you depend on a stream, pond, or ditch (rather than a controlled system such as buckets, tanks, or automatic waterers), there are concerns regarding water quality (for your horses and for the environment) and safe footing. Regardless of where you live, water quality and protecting water bank vegetation are issues that might require you to fence your animals away from a stream rather than use it as a water source.
Anatomy and Physiology Part 5: The Equine Foot May/2006
The equine lexicon is filled with clichés about the equine foot. Most horse owners have heard them all. "No foot, no horse...The foot is the horse's foundation..
Milkshaking April/2006
The "milkshake" has enjoyed some popularity as a performance-enhancer for racehorses, although it is banned in all racing jurisdictions. This "milkshake" doesn’t involve milk and syrup; the primary ingredient is sodium bicarbonate, commonly known as baking soda. This metabolic milkshake is proposed to work on high school chemistry principles of acid/base neutralization.
The Perfect Engine April/2006
Much has already been stated in this series about the special concerns involving front limb soundness in the horse since 60-65% of the animal's weight is carried in the front end. This does not mean that there are no concerns involving the back legs.
Out of Control April/2006
One night you hear kicking and crashing coming from the barn and think you have a cast horse. You run to see if you can help, and what you find is a horse down on his side paddling as if galloping on the ground. His head and neck are extended and his eyes are slightly rolled back in their sockets, showing more white than normal and moving back and forth in a quick side-to-side motion.
Whole Lotta Shakin Going On April/2006
Your horse is doing it again: Inexplicably tossing his head and sometimes charging off. Your trainer has tried everything--fly spray, changing tack, new bits, negative reinforcement--and while your horse goes through periods where he never flips his head, sooner or later, he always reverts back to his head-tossing and unruliness, sometimes acting that way for months. The vet can't find anything wrong either.
More Than Skin Deep? April/2006
It was two years ago--in April of 2004--that this magazine published the announcement that the Poco Bueno Quarter Horse sire line had been identified as carrying the recessive gene that causes hyperelastosis cutis (HC, also known as hereditary equine regional dermal asthenia or HERDA). This is an affliction involving the skin that very often carries with it a death sentence for the affected horse.
Critical Care In the Field April/2006
How does your veterinarian keep up with what is best for your horses? By attending continuing education that covers areas of interest and provides him with lectures and one-on-one time with experts in various fields. Each year, Hagyard Equine Medical Institute holds such a continuing education symposium in Lexington, Ky.
On the Forehand March/2006
The foreleg of the horse is, for the most part, a model of good engineering. It is structured in such a fashion that the horse can move slowly or at speed with the concussion of each footfall minimized by a sophisticated shock absorbing system. The system works very well when the horse is doing what nature intended--wandering about over large expanses, grazing, drinking, breeding, and resting.
Acclimating Competition Horses March/2006
The whole world is a stage, it has been said. And so it is for horses. Equine transportation from one part of the world to another for competition in days gone by generally was restricted to Olympic events once every four years. But that is a far cry from today, when horses by the dozen move from one country to another to compete in eventing, dressage, jumping, racing, cutting, and reining.
How Many Jumps Does a Horse Have? March/2006
When USA Equestrian Team member Lisa Jacquin and her star jumper For The Moment earned their share of the team silver medal at the 1988 Seoul Olympics, the gutsy Thoroughbred gelding was at the top of his game. He was fast, powerful, and precise.
Does Your Horse Need Sunglasses? March/2006
Pale-faced horses, like fair-skinned people, need a little extra protection from the sun. While sunglasses and sun screen might be the obvious solutions for fair-skinned humans, they're impractical for horses. Protection from sun glare, however, is as important for horses as it is for humans, because horses with little or no pigment in the skin around their eyes can suffer from squinting, watery eyes, sunburn, cataracts, and even cancer.
The Therapy Horse: An Integral Player March/2006
Therapeutic riding is for people of all ages with various disabilities, and it has become very popular. For horses, however, the invitation is much more re-stricted. There are specialized expectations of a horse used in therapeutic riding.
New Treatment for Tracheal Collapse March/2006
Two years later, Magnificent, a miniature horse, continues to do well with his intratracheal stent--the first ever implanted in a horse. Magnificent suffered from tracheal collapse, an uncommon--and probably underreported--condition in which the tracheal rings cannot maintain their shape, leading to a narrowed or collapsed tracheal airway. Tracheal collapse can be congenital or caused by a tumor, abscess, respiratory infection, or trauma.
Horses and Wild Animals March/2006
Throughout their existence, horses have been prey animals. Predators have been pursuing and feasting on them for eons, and they continue doing so today, despite the fact that domestication of the horse and the spread of civilization in general have decreased the range of both hunter and hunted. Yet in a manner of speaking, there are more predators today.
AAEP Convention 2005: Preventing Contagious Diseases February/2006
"Prevention of contagious diseases is dependent on an effective vaccination program and a carefully developed and strictly enforced management program," said Steve Conboy, DVM, a Central Kentucky equine practitioner, at the 2005 American Association of Equine Practitioners' Convention, held Dec. 3-7 in Seattle, Wash.
AAEP Convention 2005: Reproduction/Perinatology Forum February/2006
It's important that all the players in an industry speak the same language, and the Reproduction/Perinatology Forum on Dec. 3 at the American Association of Equine Practitioners convention in Seattle, Wash., tried to help equine veterinarians do just that.
AAEP Convention 2005: Purchase Exam at Auction Forum February/2006
Like many areas of horse care, veterinary inspection of horses for sale often raises questions as well as answers. Whether the issue at hand is how to properly take radiographs or interpret them, or the significance of endoscopic upper airway examinations, these questions are often asked within the veterinary profession as well as without. The Purchase Exams at Auction Forum on Dec.
AAEP Convention 2005: Exercise Induced Pulmonary Hemorrhage February/2006
Exercise-induced pulmonary hemorrhage (EIPH), or bleeding in the lungs after exercise, costs the United States horse racing industry a great deal--estimated at up to $260 million per year by Kenneth W. Hinchcliff, BVSc, MS, PhD, Dipl.
AAEP Convention 2005: Inflammatory Airway Disease February/2006
A racehorse running at top speed breathes about 120 times per minute, moving about 12-15 liters of air per breath or 1,400-1,800 liters per minute. With this amount of airflow, it's not hard to imagine that any amount of airway inflammation can significantly affect performance. Unfortunately, the problem is common in horses, said Susan J.
AAEP Convention 2005: Upper Airway Obstructive Disease February/2006
"Before high-speed treadmill (HSTM) endoscopy, we did not recognize the complexity of maintaining a open airway under enormous pressure swings during inspiration and expiration (breathing in and out)," said Eric Parente, DVM, associate professor of surgery at the University of Pennsylvania's New Bolton Center, during the In-Depth Respiratory session at the 2005 American Association of Equine Practitioners convention, held Dec. 3-7 in Seattle, Wash.
AAEP Convention 2005: Physical, Psychological, or Both? February/2006
When your horse's behavior changes, you wonder what caused the change--did he start kicking his stall because he is in pain, or just because he hates his new stablemate? Behavior changes can stem from physical problems, psychological ones, or a combination of the two. Figuring out which is the real culprit was the focus of a presentation by Sue McDonnell, PhD, Applied Animal Behaviorist, of the University of Pennsylvania’s New Bolton Center, at the American Association of Equine Practitioners Convention held Dec.
AAEP Convention 2005: Foal Imprinting--A Research Review February/2006
While horse owners worldwide want a simple answer to the question of whether foal imprinting works or not, it's hard to give a simple answer to what really isn't a simple question. This was the message of an imprinting research review presented by Nancy Diehl, MS, VMD, assistant professor of equine science at Pennsylvania State University, at the American Association of Equine Practitioners convention held Dec.
AAEP Convention 2005: Equine Learning Ability February/2006
"Until recently, horses have been estimated to have average intelligence at best," said Evelyn B. Hanggi, MS, PhD, president and, along with Jerry Ingersoll, co-founder of the Equine Research Foundation (ERF) in Aptos, Calif., during her review of literature on equine cognition and perception at the 2005 American Association of Equine Practitioners Convention.
AAEP Convention 2005: Kester News Hour February/2006
What's new and hot in veterinary medicine? What if you could get two of the world's foremost equine veterinarians to dig through the mountain of research that is published each year and tell you what is really significant for your and your horses or your practice? That describes the annual Kester News Hour at the American Association of Equine Practitioners Convention, held Dec. 3-7 this year in Seattle, Wash.
AAEP Convention 2005: Dentistry Table Topic February/2006
Dentistry continues to be a popular topic of discussion among equine veterinarians; more than 100 attendees lined the walls in standing-room-only fashion during the Dentistry Table Topic session at the 2005 American Association of Equine Practitioners Convention, held Dec. 3-7 in Seattle, Wash.
AAEP Convention 2005: Technology Update February/2006
Many of horse owners and veterinarians feel like new technologies are leaving us in the dust on a regular basis. The Technology Update Table Topic session at the 2005 American Association of Equine Practitioners Convention, held Dec. 3-7 in Seattle, Wash.
AAEP Convention 2005: How-To Henderson Castration Instrument February/2006
Possibly one of the most talked-about presentations at the 2005 AAEP Convention, held Dec. 3-7 in Seattle, Wash., discussed the proper usage of the power-drill-mounted Henderson castration instrument in horses. Mark Reilly, DVM, of the South Shore Equine Clinic in Plympton, Mass.
AAEP Convention 2005: Head Movement Associated with Lameness February/2006
"The head shows you more than just what limb is involved in a lame horse," began Kevin Keegan, DVM, MS, Dipl. ACVS, associate professor of veterinary medicine and surgery at the University of Missouri, during his discussion of head movement with forelimb and hindlimb lameness at the 2005 American Association of Equine Practitioners Convention held Dec. 3-7 in Seattle, Wash.
AAEP Convention 2005: The Science of Lameness February/2006
Both horse owners and veterinarians spend a lot of time observing horses for lameness, but not all observers perceive lameness the same. Sometimes this is because of a less than clear understanding of equine biomechanics. Researchers such as Florian Buchner, DMV, PhD, an equine orthopedic surgeon at the University of Vienna, are seeking to better explain how the horse moves when sound and lame.
AAEP Convention 2005: Diagnostic Anesthesia February/2006
Diagnostic anesthesia (nerve blocks) comprise an essential part of lameness examinations for many practitioners. Their function is to anesthetize specific structures in the lower leg and thus allow identification of the location of pain. However, results are not always straightforward.
AAEP Convention 2005: Bone Scintigraphy February/2006
Using scintigraphy (also called bone scans), "I have imaged 5,000 horses in my university referral practice over the last 12 years and have enormous respect for this imaging tool," said Michael Ross, DVM, Dipl. ACVS, professor of equine surgery at the University of Pennsylvania's New Bolton Center.
AAEP Convention 2005: Magnetic Resonance Imaging February/2006
"I am here to convince you that MRI (magnetic resonance imaging) is in all your futures, so you are going to have to develop some familiarity with this," began Robert Schneider, DVM, MS, equine orthopedic surgeon at Washington State University, during his presentation on this imaging modality at the 2005 American Association of Equine Practitioners Convention, held Dec. 3-7 in Seattle, Wash.
AAEP Convention 2005: Performance Horse Forum February/2006
"We're meant to be advocates for the welfare of the horse," said Rick Mitchell, DVM, of Fairfield Equine Associates in Newtown, Conn., moderator of the Dec. 3, 2005 Performance Horse Forum at the American Association of Equine Practitioners (AAEP) Convention in Seattle, Wash.
AAEP Convention 2005: Chronic Salbutamol Treatment for Inflammatory Airway Disease February/2006
"Anywhere between 25-92% of stabled horses have some form of airway inflammation," said Melissa R. Mazan, DVM, of Tufts University's Cummings School of Veterinary Medicine, at the 2005 American Association of Equine Practitioners Convention in Seattle, Wash. "The overarching goal of treatment is to improve or maintain quality of life and athletic potential.
AAEP Convention 2005: Infectious Neurologic Disease February/2006
Sometimes subtle and often dramatic, infectious neurologic disease cases are things veterinarians never want to see, although most would like to understand them better and more easily recognize them when they appear in clients' horses. From rabies to West Nile virus (WNV), these diseases garnered their own table topic discussion at the 2005 American Association of Equine Practitioners Convention, held Dec.
AAEP Convention 2005: Recent Progress in Vaccine Development February/2006
Four equine vaccines have been developed and approved for West Nile virus (WNV) in the past five years, one of which was the first DNA vaccine for any mammal. The pace of this progress is unheard of in industries that make vaccines for other species, and this is evidence that vaccine manufacturers and the equine veterinary community are striving to understand the efficacy of equine vaccines and their strategic use to prevent infectious disease.
AAEP Convention 2005: Racing Forum February/2006
What is being done to ensure a level playing field for horses and horsemen? That was a key question discussed at the American Association of Equine Practitioners' Racing Forum on Dec. 3 during the group's annual convention in Seattle, Wash.
AAEP Convention 2005: Biologic and Therapeutic Agents Forum February/2006
The main topics of concern at the American Association of Equine Practitioner's convention Biologic and Therapeutic Agents Forum were veterinary compounding, judicious use of antibiotics, plasma products, and the ability to update current vaccines without having to go through a complete approval process with USDA. The latter was focused on flu, which has been in the headlines this year with equine flu getting into dogs and the looming threat of avian flu.
AAEP Convention 2005: Foot Lameness Table Topic February/2006
About 75 people attended the Foot Lameness Table Topic during the AAEP Convention. It was moderated by Andy Parks, VMD, of the University of Georgia, and Tracy Turner, DVM, MS, Dipl. ACVS, a private practitioner in Minnesota.
AAEP Convention 2005: Awards and Recognition February/2006
At the 2005 AAEP Convention held Dec. 3-7 in Seattle, Wash., the founders of Days End Farm Horse Rescue received the Lavin Cup, which is the AAEP's equine welfare award named for longtime racetrack practitioner Gary Lavin, VMD, of Kentucky. Allan and Kathleen Schwartz started Days End Farm in 1989.
AAEP Convention 2005: Milne State of the Art Lecture February/2006
From Arthroscopy to Gene Therapy--30 Years of Looking Into Joints Nat White, DVM, Dipl. ACVS, chairman of the American Association of Equine Practitioners (AAEP) Foundation, introduced the 2005 Milne State of the Art Lecturer Wayne McIlwraith, BVSc, PhD, FRCVS, Dipl. ACVS, ECVS.
AAEP Convention 2005: Alternative Therapy Table Topic February/2006
This year's table topic on alternative therapies discussed mostly acupuncture and chiropractic and how to best incorporate them into a veterinary practice for diagnosis and treatment. Facilitators Rhonda Rathgeber, DVM, PhD, of Hagyard Equine Medical Institute in Lexington, Ky.
AAEP Convention 2005: Treating Sore Backs Table Topic February/2006
Kent Allen, DVM, of Virginia Equine Imaging, and Jerry Black, DVM, of Pioneer Equine in California, facilitated a table topic discussion of sore backs during the 2005 American Association of Equine Practitioner's convention held Dec. 3-7 in Seattle, Wash.
AAEP Convention 2005: How To Manage Sheared Heels February/2006
Steve O'Grady, BVSc, MRCVS, of Northern Virginia Equine, said a sheared heel is a "created situation" and a "poorly understood phenomenon." He said the condition was first described by Bill Moyer, DVM, in 1975. "The diagnosis and treatment is the same now as it was then, and we're into the mechanism as to how it happens," said O'Grady.
AAEP Convention 2005: How To Use Gas Distention in Equine Arthroscopy February/2006
While a horse owner might not care whether a veterinarian uses sterile fluid, gas, or both to distend an area for viewing during arthroscopic surgery, it might benefit you to understand how these new methods could provide your veterinarian with a clearer field of view when he/she is looking in a joint. K.
AAEP Convention 2005: How To Use Sterile Maggot Debridement Therapy February/2006
Using fly larvae to debride wounds is an age-old medicinal treatment that is finding new uses in modern medicine. Scott E. Morrison, DVM, of Rood and Riddle Equine Hospital in Lexington, Ky., spoke on using sterile maggot debridement therapy for foot infections at the 2005 American Association of Equine Practitioner's Convention on Dec.
AAEP Convention 2005: Horseman's Day Teeth February/2006
"A plain old float just isn't good enough anymore," explained Mary DeLorey, DVM, owner of Northwest Equine Dentistry in Washington, during the 51st Annual AAEP Convention, in Seattle, Wash., Dec.
AAEP Convention 2005: Horseman's Day Unwanted Horse February/2006
What is an unwanted horse? An unwanted horse is a horse within the domestic equine population that is deemed by its owner to no longer be useful or needed, said Nat Messer, DVM, Dipl. ABVP, during the Horseman's Day session at the 51st annual AAEP Convention in Seattle, Wash.
AAEP Convention 2005: Horseman's Day Wound Management February/2006
The first sight of blood can prompt a frantic call to the veterinarian, but a second examination of the wound with a cool head might prove it to be less of an emergency. To help horse owners distinguish between emergencies and a wound that doesn’t require a midnight visit, Erin Denney-Jones, DVM, of Florida Equine Veterinary Service, described scenarios when an emergency call is warranted, and what the owner could do while waiting on the veterinarian to arrive, during the 51st Annual AAEP Convention, in Seattle, Wash.
AAEP Convention 2005: Horseman's Day Laminitis February/2006
What causes laminitis? Is it the same as founder? Should I remove shoes from a horse with acute laminitis? Should I soak his feet? Does laminitis always have devastating consequences? "Unfortunately, many of these questions do not have definite answers," said Andrew Parks, VMD, head of the Department of Large Animal Medicine at the University of Georgia, during Horsemen's Day, which was held in conjunction with the AAEP Convention, in Seattle, Wash., Dec.
AAEP Convention 2005: Horseman's Day Purchase Exam February/2006
"A pre-purchase exam is only one factor to help you decide if you are going to purchase an animal," said Craig Roberts, DVM, an Ocala, Fla., practitioner. purchase exams are designed to discover a horse's unique concerns and discuss the management options for those problems.
AAEP Convention 2005: More Veterinary Students Going Into Equine Medicine February/2006
A few years ago the American Association of Equine Parishioners identified a disturbing trend: The number of veterinary graduates pursuing careers in equine medicine was dwindling. Long hours, low pay, and lack of expertise were seen as common causes of the trend.
AAEP Convention 2005: How To Repair Incisors February/2006
Mandible (lower jaw) and premaxillary (upper jaw) fractures are common equine head injuries, according to David Moll, DVM, MS, Dipl. ACVS, professor of large animal clinical sciences at Oklahoma State University. There are many described techniques to repair theses types of fractures, including interdental wiring, intermedullary pins, lag screws, external fixation, or a combination.
AAEP Convention 2005: Stallion Handling February/2006
"An untrained stallion in the breeding shed can be like having an orangutan on the end of a shank," began Dickson Varner, DVM, MS, Dipl. ACT, Chief of Theriogenology at Texas A&M University and Pin Oak Stud Chair of Stallion Reproductive Studies. Varner, who is world-renowned for his expertise in stallion reproduction and his contributions to the field, presented his methods of stallion handling during the 51st Annual AAEP Convention, held in Seattle, Wash.
AAEP Convention 2005: Lameness in Racehorses February/2006
Inconsistencies in racetrack surfaces account for a large number of lamenesses in racehorses, said Jeff Blea, DVM, of the Southern California Equine Foundation in Arcadia, Calif., during the Lameness in Racehorses Forum held at the 51st Annual AAEP Convention, in Seattle, Wash.
AAEP Convention 2005: Tendon injuries: New Treatments February/2006
Injuries to the superficial digital flexor tendon account for as much as 30% of all Thoroughbred racing injuries, and of those that do heal there is a high incidence of reoccurrence, according to Linda Dahlgren, DVM, PhD, Dipl. ACVS, of Virginia-Maryland Regional College of Veterinary Medicine.
AAEP Convention 2005: Problems With Multiple Embryo Collection February/2006
Embryo transfer has been well-established in the horse industry as a method of obtaining multiple offspring from a valuable donor mare. The increased usage of this technique prompted Colorado State University (CSU) researchers to examine the effects of repeated embryo flushing. Elaine Carnevale, DVM, PhD, from CSU’s Animal Reproduction and Biotechnology Laboratory, presented the study’s findings at the 51st Annual American Association of Equine Practitioners Convention, in Seattle, Wash.
AAEP Convention 2005: Increasing Embryo Recovery and Fertility February/2006
In a study from the University of Saskatchewan, Canadian researchers compared ovulation rates, embryo recovery and quality, and subsequent pregnancy rate using two estrus synchronization methods--prostaglandin (PG) administration and progesterone and estradiol (PE) administration--both combined with equine follicle-stimulating hormone (eFSH) treatments. Tal Raz, DVM, presented the researchers' findings at the 51st Annual American Association of Equine Practitioners Convention, held in Seattle, Wash.
AAEP Convention 2005: Optimizing Pregnancy Rates for Frozen-Thawed Semen February/2006
A major disadvantage associated with frozen-thawed semen is the fertility of the semen, which can be considerably less than fresh semen. This can be problematic when deciding how many progressively motile sperm (PMS) are needed per breeding to produce optimal pregnancy rates in mares. Elizabeth Metcalf, MS, DVM, Dipl.
It All Hinges On This February/2006
There are 205 bones in the horse's skeleton. Twenty of these bones are in each foreleg and 20 in each hind limb, for a grand total of 80 bones in the four equine legs. The leg bones do not function independently.
EPM Check-Up February/2006
Although progress has been made studying equine protozoal myeloencephalitis (EPM) in the last 10 years, some aspects of the disease remain elusive. One researcher, half-jokingly, notes that EPM is considered the most diagnosed neurologic disorder in horses, and the most misdiagnosed neurologic disorder in horses! It's no surprise that researchers are seeking means to accurately identify horses that have EPM. Along those lines, not knowing why some horses exposed to the protozoan parasite Sarcocystis neurona develop full-blown infection (resulting in brain and spinal cord inflammation) while other exposed horses remain impervious is another mystery engaging researchers.
Inhalation Therapy for Equine Airway Disease February/2006
Editor's Note: N. Edward Robinson, BVetMed, PhD, is the Matilda Wilson professor in large animal clinical sciences at Michigan State University. He is one of the world's leading researchers in equine airway disease, and he has lectured on this topic around the world. Following is information from Robinson on the latest in inhalation therapy for equine airway disease.
What's Brewing Under Those Feathers? February/2006
It is quite probable that many people have never heard of chronic progressive lymphedema. However, if you have spent time with draft horses, chances are much more likely that you are familiar with the condition. This painful, debilitating disease has been identified in Shires, Clydesdales, and Belgians (especially those actually in Belgium).
AAEP Convention 2005: Vaccine Efficacy and Controversies February/2006
"There are a huge number of (vaccine) choices out there and it's hard sometimes to see our way through the forest," said Julia Wilson, DVM, Dipl. ACVIM, associate professor in Veterinary Population Medicine at the University of Minnesota. "What we should be doing is thinking about what the risk is of that disease, not just for the individual horse, but the group of horses it lives with.
The Cost of Putting a Foal on the Ground January/2006
If you are new to the breeding business, you will soon realize that putting a foal on the ground can be an expensive proposition. Breeding can be as simple as turning a stallion in with a group of mares, or it can be as sophisticated as importing frozen semen from a highly acclaimed stallion located in another country. Science has taken some of the mystery and chance out of breeding, but that progress has come at a price--literally.
Retained Fetal Membranes January/2006
For a mare, the birth of her foal is an explosive process, in the best of circumstances requiring less than a half-hour from the time her water breaks to the time the foal has been delivered through the birth canal. In a wilder existence, a pregnant mare would seek a secluded place to lie down and have her foal, trying to keep safe from predators.
Hey There, Honey! January/2006
In nature, mares have a high fertility/ conception rate since they are continually with a stallion who teases and breeds them at the best times. But few domestic horses are bred under natural conditions in pasture harems, and broodmare managers must detect when each mare should be bred. A successful breeding program depends on being able to determine when each mare is in heat and likely to conceive, whether she's being hand bred by natural cover or by artificial insemination.
Live Cover Management December/2005
Many breed registries still require breeding be done by live cover--the stallion physically covers the mare. The actual mating process is an awesome spectacle, but can be dangerous to the mare, stallion, and handlers when done in hand-breeding situations. It involves the stallion mounting the mare, inserting his penis into the mare's vagina, and vigorously thrusting until he ejaculates, then dismounting.
Monitoring Pregnancy December/2005
Preparations for breeding and the act of getting a mare bred involve dedicated time and commitment by a horse owner. Then it seems as if all that needs to be done is to sit back and wait for the foaling date. But this is not quite so; it is important to stay on top of events throughout the mare's course of pregnancy.
Vaccination Schedules for Adult Horses December/2005
As desirable as it would be to have a national (or even regional) one-size-fits-all protocol for vaccinating adult horses, vaccination recommendations are best tailored to individual circumstances. These primarily include the areas of the country the horse lives in or travels to (the specific disease risks that abide in said area) and whether a horse is exposed to transient populations.
AAEP For Education November/2005
This year's annual meeting of the American Association of Equine Practitioners (AAEP) in Seattle, Wash., offers a myriad of educational opportunities for veterinarians and horse owners, and has a trade show that features new products and services for veterinarians. For more information on educational opportunities, visit
Helping Horses Worldwide November/2005
As a responsible horse owner, you make management decisions that affect the current well-being of your horse and his future vitality. You order low-dust bedding for your gelding with heaves. Your veterinarian arrives for her scheduled visit and you observe as she administers your mare's autumn vaccinations.
Dental Plan for the Working Horse November/2005
Routine equine dental care is important for three reasons, says David O. Klugh, DVM, Fellow in the Academy of Veterinary Dentistry, owner of Equine Dental Associates in Yamhill, Ore.: Making sure deciduous teeth come out and adult teeth erupt in proper alignment; Maximizing tooth longevity; and Addressing causes of immediate pain.
Vaccinations for Youngsters November/2005
Protecting tender immune systems against disease is the surest way to ensure the young horse doesn't fall victim to either temporarily uncomfortable or life-ending infections. Even though foals receive some immunity by drinking colostrum within the first 12-24 hours of life, lack of exposure and the naiveté of the immune system sooner or later leave them susceptible to various disease-causing agents.
Improving Travel Conditions October/2005
While there have been many changes in the equine world in the past several decades, no change has been more dramatic than that experienced by horse transportation. The change, literally, has been from hooves and rails to wheels and wings.
Crossing Boundaries October/2005
Vaccination of broodmares is just one part of a complete disease prevention program, but its importance should not be underestimated. Immunization is one of the least expensive, and most effective, strategies horse breeders can use to protect broodmares and their foals from disease, and even death. "When you vaccinate broodmares, you're not just protecting the mares, you're protecting their foals as well," says Tulio Prado, DVM, MS, Dipl.
Science and Horsemanship September/2005
Over the past two decades, the work of Hilary Clayton, BVMS, PhD, has elevated equine sports medicine to a whole new level. As the first incumbent of the Mary Anne McPhail Chair at Michigan State University, Clayton brings an element of modern science to the ancient art of horsemanship. Her revolutionary research is generating valuable information and a greater understanding about the ways in which horses and riders move and interact.
Hauling Q&A September/2005
Experts answer your top 10 questions Today's horses tend to travel--a lot--but they're not necessarily wearing out horseshoes. They're tearing up the treads on horse trailers and wearing out the rubber on the truck tires that travel America's highways during the summer and autumn months, prime times for horse shows, rodeos, racing, and trail rides. Knowing this, we asked a few trailering experts to list the 10 most frequently asked questions concerning trailers and equine transport that they receive from busy horse owners who usually do their own hauling.
Strategies to Enhance Vaccine Efficiency September/2005
When it comes to protection from infectious diseases, the best defense is a good offense. Not only is a strategic vaccination program important, but the housing and handling of horses on a farm can enhance vaccination efficacy. A successful outcome (no disease) is best accomplished by applying intelligent management strategies for individual horses and proper herd health principles.
What's New in Equine Vaccines? August/2005
For most of us, equine vaccines seem pretty simple and boring--halter and restrain horse, pop in a needle and release contents, then a short time later the horse will be protected against that disease. But it's a lot more complicated than that, and the various factors affecting immunity and vaccination provide seemingly limitless possibilities for new technologies and ways to get vaccines into horses.
Prosthetics: Science, Not Science Fiction July/2005
There is a roadside pasture in Pullman, Wash., where a black Quarter Horse stallion has been known to stop traffic. It's not simply the pastoral beauty of a handsome horse in a natural setting that draws attention. Rather, it's that this particular stallion has a feature few people have ever seen on an equid: An artificial limb.
Dung Beetles July/2005
Dung beetles are amazing insects that spend their lives mucking out your pastures. The adults use liquid contents for nourishment, and they lay eggs in small manure balls (brood balls) they bury in the ground. In the process, they serve as Nature's clean-up crew, getting rid of the manure "pat" and facilitating natural fertilization and aeration of the soil.
Photosensitization in the Horse July/2005
  Photosensitization is a serious skin condition characterized by "sunburned," crusty skin that dies and sloughs away. It is usually caused by a reaction to something the horse has eaten, but the skin problem does not appear until the animal is exposed to sunlight. Christine Rees, DVM, Dipl.
Treadmills for Diagnosing Lameness July/2005
Quiet progress in using sophisticated techniques for diagnosing lameness has been taking place in research laboratories around the world. Researchers from Missouri to Australia and from Virginia to Switzerland are perfecting techniques for utilizing high-speed cameras and treadmills to diagnose obscure lamenesses and help determine correct trimming and shoeing procedures for individual horses. Another approach that is still in the developmental stage at the equine clinic of the University of Missouri-Columbia Teaching Hospital involves evaluating lameness by using body sensors to send wireless signals to a computer without the use of a treadmill (see "Transducer Diagnostics" on page 46).
Strangles Risk and Treatment July/2005
Strangles is hardly a new disease, having been recognized as a contagious bacterial problem in horses for centuries. Yet it still remains a troublesome and persistent issue, and it is identified worldwide. Research has been directed toward developing effective vaccines to control its spread through the horse population, but management strategies are even more important in limiting its presence.
Equine Herpesviruses 1&4 June/2005
Herpesvirus is a particularly well-evolved virus that occurs in many mammals, such as humans, horses, cats, and cows. Each strain tends to be species-specific, meaning that viruses infecting one animal species do not usually infect another species. In the world of microbes, viruses are specialized in their ability to infect and survive within a host.
Dealing with the Dark June/2005
When her gelding, Houdini, first went blind, Jean Wilson was distraught--everyone she talked to insisted that he should either be euthanatized or confined to a stall for safety. Fortunately, Wilson did not listen, and two years later, the pair was chosen to represent their drill team during the opening flag presentation at the Midwest Horse Fair.
Horses and Fire June/2005
Fire can be both friend and foe in nature. While fire can do extensive damage to the environment, the damage is often short-lived and the long-term benefits outweigh short-term problems as new vegetation springs forth to populate the landscape. For animals, including horses, fire's short-term effects can be deadly.
Ponying for Exercise June/2005
Ponying is leading one horse from another. The pony horse is the one you are riding; the ponied horse is the one being led. Ponying is a good way to exercise a horse you don't have time to ride or one that can't be ridden. If you need to keep two horses fit, you can ride one and lead one, then switch horses during the ride to give them both the same amount of work.
Choke! May/2005
What the heck?! What is that sound out in the barn? The big horse Elvis is barking out enormous, intermittent coughs. Your pulse quickens--Elvis shouldn't be sick! Good grief, he hasn't been anywhere, hasn't had any of his horse friends over to visit, and he is fully vaccinated. So what is going on? After rushing to his stall you find him looking very distressed with saliva pouring from his mouth.
Salmonella in Horses May/2005
Salmonellosis affects humans, horses, most mammals, and birds. It can cause debilitating--and even deadly--diarrhea. Salmonella bacteria can affect both foals and adults, and they spread easily by horse-to-horse contact and by fomites (shared tools, water buckets, hands, etc., on which bacteria can "hitch a ride" to the next victim).
Big Feet, Big Shoes May/2005
Whether you're a heavy horse fancier or not, a big hitch of fancy draft horses is an arresting sight. But what's the connection between all this flash and the ideal function of a heavy horse? Show ring insiders say you're seeing an animal displaying its full range of motion, while skeptics argue that the horse's anatomy is dangerously compromised by the hardware and the reshaping of the feet. The exaggerated movement of draft horses in the ring is often achieved by changing the foot shape, with emphasis on flaring the hoof walls.
Hoof Radiographs May/2005
Your horse is limping and a detailed visual exam by your veterinarian reveals a small black spot, suggesting a puncture wound. Your veterinarian radiographs the hoof: The X rays confirm the diagnosis, clearly showing the direction and depth of the puncture. But for other hoof disorders, radiographs can fail to determine a cause of lameness, and your veterinarian might recommend additional diagnostics.
Lyme Disease Update May/2005
Lyme disease is a problem more commonly thought to occur in our canine and human friends than horses. However, occur it does, and it can have a wide range of signs and symptoms. This disease is a perplexing and confusing one to diagnose and treat in horses, as it has similar clinical signs to many other diseases.
Pasture-Associated Heaves May/2005
Question: It's summer and your coughing horse has been diagnosed with recurrent airway obstruction (RAO). As part of your horse's management plan, should you: A: Keep your horse out of the barn and turned out to pasture, or B: Keep your horse away from pasture and stabled indoors? Although this may come as a surprise to owners of horses who show signs of heaves when stalled in the winter barn, the answer is B: Keep your horse inside. Summertime Blues Most horse owners--at least, those in the north, Midwest, parts of the west, and the northern tier of southern states--see the onset of RAO in their horses occurring during the winter when their horses spend a lot of time stabled.
To Shoe or Not to Shoe? May/2005
They are questions most horse owners have pondered at one time or another. Does my horse really need shoes? Do they help or hinder him? There is no one-size-fits-all answer. Consideration must be given to several factors, including a horse's job, how much he's used, what type of foot he has, and the climate and terrain to which he's exposed.
Controlling Influenza May/2005
Editor's Note: This is the fifth in a 12-part series of articles on vaccinations for horses. Equine influenza is a common respiratory infection. While it affects many horses, it has a low mortality rate; horses generally recover. However, flu can cause your horse physical distress, it's highly contagious, and it can keep your horse out of training and competition for weeks or months for recovery.
Fitting the Saddle to the Withers May/2005
Were we to select the perfect withers for our mounts with the idea of arranging the best possible fit for the saddle, we would probably settle on well-placed, prominent withers that blended nicely into the slope of the shoulder and the back. However, the shape of a horse's withers with regard to saddle fit is complex.
Pigeon Fever: Abscesses Within and Without April/2005
The first thought that might run through your mind as you approach your horse in the pasture and see his swollen chest or belly is that he has been kicked. As you await your vet, you think back over the past few days, and realize that perhaps he felt a little more sluggish than usual, moved with a little more stiffness than normal, and in general, he hasn't behaved like his usual, shiny self.
Settling Down: Reproductive Problems in Performance Mares April/2005
Let's say you've got a great performance mare you'd like to breed. But getting her in foal might not be as simple as swapping arena for breeding shed. Mares in performance careers can sometimes be hard to breed because these mares are under more stress than broodmares, and they might have hormonal problems that interfere with good conception rates.
The Ever-Present Threat April/2005
Editor's Note: This is the fourth in a 12-part series of articles on vaccinations for horses. West Nile virus (WNV) might be the new kid on the block, the one gaining all the media attention, but unfortunately, it is not the only mosquito-borne disease to which your horse is vulnerable. Long before WNV ever reached North American shores, there were two other forms of viral encephalitis (literally, inflammation of the brain) for horse owners to worry about, as well as an occasional invader from South America.
Weaving in Horses: Another Look April/2005
In this time of enlightened horse management, it is staggering that the myths and folklore surrounding stable "vices" still refuse to die, and therefore the repetitive behaviors themselves continue to thrive. Even the term "vice" implies the horse is the one at fault, when we now know that these abnormalities occur due to the horse being at psychological odds with the way we are keeping him.
Drug Testing March/2005
Controversy over medication and drug testing has been around since organized equine competitions came into being. There has always been more disagreement than agreement among the various factions involved, and more contention than harmony. Drug testing is a legal part of nearly all breed and discipline competitions these days, and much of what is done in regard to drug testing in other competitions stems from the racing world.
Fetus at Risk March/2005
When a pregnant mare develops a problem that puts her fetus at risk, what can be done? Some of these foals can be saved if the problem can be discovered early and the mare given proper treatment to reverse the condition. Jon Palmer, VMD, associate professor of medicine and director of the neonatal and perinatal programs at the Connelly Intensive Care Unit at New Bolton Center (part of the University of Pennsylvania), deals with many pregnant mares and their problems.
Diarrhea in Young Foals March/2005
Infectious diarrhea in young foals can be fatal without prompt treatment, and the age of the foal can make a difference in his vulnerability to certain pathogens and how deadly they might be. In foals less than a week old, the cause is often salmonella or a clostridium bacteria.
History of the Horse March/2005
Who, what, when, where, and how? These journalistic questions also are the backbone of historic research into the history of the world. There are many scientists who have studied and theorized about how man and horses came to be together, but modern science has changed some of what we thought was fact. Except for horses and chickens, the farm and pet species we have today are believed to have been domesticated about 10,000-15,000 years ago.
Metabolic Syndrome and Obesity in Horses March/2005
Equine nutritionists and wise horse owners have long known that obesity in horses is not a good thing. The obese horse often is incapable of performing even moderate tasks without becoming exhausted and, as a result, placing itself in danger of injury. Now researchers are adding still another dimension to these concerns.
Police Horses: Taking It to the Streets March/2005
Bands march past with trumpets blaring and drums banging, and the horse hardly twitches an ear. A mother pushes her baby stroller under the neck of the horse unknowingly while asking for directions, and the horse merely glances down, never moving his feet. Trucks whiz past the horse, inches from his hindquarters, and he appears uninterested.
AAEP Convention 2004 Wrap-Up: The Grab Bag March/2005
Stopping Equine Aggression With An Electronic Collar "Aggressive behavior in horses is expensive," said Michelle A. Kennedy, DVM, a private practitioner in Delta, Colo. Veterinary expense, property damage, loss of use of affected horses, and the emotional cost associated with the death of an animal if injured severely during an aggressive act all demand a reliable way to change this behavior in the horse.
AAEP Convention 2004 Wrap-Up: Horseman's Day March/2005
Horseman's Day, as part of the annual American Association of Equine Practitioners Convention, just keeps getting better and better. And attendance is strong no matter where the convention is held. Most recently, the locale was Denver, Colo.
AAEP Convention 2004 Wrap-Up: Kester News Hour March/2005
Probably the best-attended session at the American Association of Equine Practitioners (AAEP) Convention, the Kester News Hour features brief reports of new research that was too new or brief for inclusion in the scientific program. The information is presented in a fun, rapid-fire format by two of the country's top equine veterinary specialists--internal medicine guru John Madigan, DVM, MS, Dipl.
AAEP Convention 2004 Wrap-Up: Lameness March/2005
Lameness Diagnosis via Head and Pelvis Movement "I used to think I knew how to evaluate a horse's movement for lameness, until I started to look more carefully. Two highly experienced practitioners can evaluate a lame horse and come up with different (lame) legs," said Kevin Keegan, DVM, MS, Dipl.
AAEP Convention 2004 Wrap-Up: Medicine/Treatments March/2005
Equine Malignant Hyperthermia We've all heard of people and animals that are "sensitive" to anesthesia. Monica Aleman, MVZ, PhD, Dipl. ACVIM, head of the neuromuscular disease lab at the University of California, Davis, reported on a genetic problem called equine malignant hyperthermia (EMH) that can make simple anesthesia deadly for some horses. Malignant hyperthermia-like episodes in the horse have been associated with drugs such as succinylcholine, halothane, isoflurane, and caffeine.
AAEP Convention 2004 Wrap-Up: Milne Lecture (Foals) March/2005
The Frank J. Milne Lecture was presented by Peter Rossdale, OBE, MA, PhD, Dr. (h.c.) Berne, Dr. (h.c.) Edinburgh, DESM, FACVSc, FRCVS. The title of his talk was "The Maladjusted Foal: Influences of Intrauterine Growth Retardation and Birth Trauma." Rossdale's primary area of research is equine reproduction, and he has won many awards and honors for his work in this field.
AAEP Convention 2004 Wrap-Up 2004: Placentitis March/2005
Placentitis was the subject of an in-depth session at the convention. Michelle LeBlanc, DVM, Dipl. ACT, of Rood and Riddle Equine Hospital in Lexington, Ky., set the tone for the session when she told her listeners that, "The single most important cause of premature delivery of a foal is placentitis.
AAEP Convention 2004 Wrap-Up: Reproduction March/2005
Pregnancies from Euthanized Mare Ovaries "You think breeding mares on foal heat is tough, try dead mares!" said Elaine Carnevale, DVM, PhD, professor in equine reproduction in the department of biomedical sciences at Colorado State University (CSU), with a laugh as she began her talk following a presentation on foal heat breeding success. Her presentation covered CSU's work with deceased mares' ovaries and oocytes, and their success rates.
AAEP Convention Wrap-Up 2004: Sports Medicine March/2005
Shock Wave Therapy Several studies have been conducted on extracorporeal shock wave therapy (ESWT) at various institutions this past year. One presented by C. Wayne McIlwraith, BVSc, PhD, DSc, FRCVS, DrMedVet (hc), Dipl.
AAEP Convention 2004 Wrap-Up: Therapeutic Options March/2005
Controversies: A Mixed Bag Of Medications Wayne McIlwraith, BVSc, PhD, DSc, FRCVS, DrMedVet (hc), Dipl. ACVS, director of Colorado State University's Gail Holmes Equine Orthopaedic Research Center, presented "Licensed Medications, 'Generic' Medications, Compounding, and Nutraceuticals--What has Been Scientifically Validated, Where Do We Encounter Scientific Mistruth, and Where are We Legally?" The long title was needed for the scope of the discussion, and McIlwraith did a thorough job of educating the veterinarians in attendance on the current state of the industry. He said many of the medications, supplements, and additives available today to horse owners and veterinarians can raise legal and ethical issues in the industry.
AAEP Convention Wrap-Up 2004: The Unwanted Horse March/2005
The American Association of Equine Practitioners (AAEP) made the welfare of unwanted horses in the United States a priority for the foreseeable future, according to AAEP leaders during the annual convention. While the AAEP's stand against the national bill that bans slaughter of horses has been seen as a negative by many horse owners, the AAEP is not pro-slaughter, but pro-horse, said incoming president Scott Palmer, VMD.
West Nile Virus: Threat and Response March/2005
Editor's Note: This is the third in a 12-part series of articles on vaccinations for horses. For a graphic demonstration of the value of vaccination, look no further than West Nile virus (WNV). When it roared onto the Eastern shore of the United States in 1999 (most likely thanks to a European or African bird), WNV struck fear into the hearts of horse owners when it quickly became clear that equines were more vulnerable to the virus than humans.
Going Under March/2005
If you're like most horse owners, the idea of surgery performed on your beloved animal is unpleasant at best, terrifying at worst. Those fears are not unfounded. Because of the species' size and weight, their physiological reactions to many anesthetic drugs, and the difficulties of recovery, horses are trickier to safely anesthetize than most other species.
AAEP 2004 Convention Wrap-Up: Golden in Denver March/2005
The American Association of Equine Practitioners (AAEP) celebrated its 50th anniversary with its 2004 convention in Denver, Colo. A record crowd of nearly 6,300 veterinary professionals, exhibitors, and guests enjoyed the educational event and festivities. The convention featured nearly 100 scientific presentations, a sold-out trade show, and successful Horseman's Day seminars for owners.
The ART of Breeding February/2005
Successful breeding of horses is not always as easy as presenting a receptive mare to a fertile stallion. There are many things that can go awry with the reproductive process. Broodmares that were once fertile and produced many excellent foals might one day face the realities of repetitive foaling injuries, chronic uterine infections, or simply old age.
GI Disease in Foals February/2005
Despite advances in veterinary medicine, the first few weeks of a foal's life can still be risky. Many health problems can arise, including myriad gastrointestinal (GI) disorders that can quickly drain a youngster of health, vigor, and sometimes life. Explains Brady J.
Lice on Horses February/2005
Horses occasionally get lice, and a horse owner needs to know what to look for and how to treat these irritating parasites. Bill Clymer, PhD, of Amarillo, Texas (now a livestock parasitologist on the professional services staff of Fort Dodge Animal Health), has worked with horses and lice for many years. Earlier in his career, he was an extension livestock specialist with Texas A&M University.
Vaccination Essentials: Rabies, Tetanus, and Botulism February/2005
Editor's Note: This is the second in a 12-part series of articles on vaccinations for horses. Ask veterinarians anywhere in North America and they'll likely agree: If you vaccinate for nothing else, at the very least vaccinate for tetanus and rabies. The two diseases have much in common.
What is a Cryptorchid? January/2005
Cryptorchid, ridgling, and even rig are terms used to describe a stallion with at least one undescended testis. The condition is not unique to equids, but the horse is of specific importance as the retained testis fails to produce viable sperm, so fertility rates are affected. However, the testis is still capable of producing testosterone, so the animal will show stallion-like behavior.
Allergic Reactions: Types and Treatment December/2004
An allergy is a condition in which the body reacts adversely (locally or systemically) to a certain substance (allergen). Allergic reactions can be triggered in horses by many things--environmental allergens such as dust, pollen, and mold; insect bites; substances in feeds; things put on or touched by the horse; or injections. Reactions can be localized in the skin and appear as swelling and redness (sometimes itching) at the site of allergic contact, or show up as hives all over the body.
Parasite Control Programs for Mature Horses December/2004
EDITOR'S NOTE: This is the final installment in a 12-part series on internal parasites of horses. In last month's article, we discussed certain parasites that are found almost exclusively in horses less than two years of age--roundworms, threadworms, and other nasties that target the naïve immune systems of youngsters. After equines reach their second birthday, however, the picture changes dramatically, as large and small strongyles become the major focus of our parasite control programs.
AAEP 2004 Convention Preview November/2004
This is a special year for the American Association of Equine Practitioners (AAEP). There aren't many things today that last 50 years, especially an organization that was started to ensure the health and welfare of the horse and to further the education of it's primary caregivers--the veterinarian and the owner. But the AAEP has not only survived, but flourished, much to the benefit of our equine companions.
Age-Related Parasites: Scourges of Foals and Young Horses November/2004
Editor's Note: This is part eleven of a 12-part series on internal parasites of horses. BY KAREN BRIGGS, WITH CRAIG REINEMEYER, DVM, PHD; DENNIS FRENCH, DVM, MS, DIPL. ABVP; AND RAY KAPLAN, DVM, PHD For the past 10 months in this series, we've examined a host of issues relating to equine parasites and their control.
Gold-Medal Vet Care November/2004
BY LEO JEFFCOTT, BVETMED, PHD, FRCVS, DVSC, MA, VETDR; JACK SNYDER, DVM, PHD, DIPL. ACVS; AND SHARON SPIER, DVM, PHD, DIPL. ACVIM, AS TOLD TO STEPHANIE STEPHENS All eyes on the podium, and the Gold Medal goes to..
Parasite Control Without--or Along With--Chemicals October/2004
EDITOR'S NOTE This is part ten of a 12-part series on internal parasites of horses. Our horses are lucky to live in an age when modern deworming drugs can pretty much rid them of parasites. They're living longer and healthier lives than ever before as a result of the easy availability of these drugs.
Feeding the Finicky Eater October/2004
Some horses present special challenges in feeding, especially if they won't eat enough to maintain proper body weight. Sometimes a lactating broodmare, a horse in hard training or steady work, or a horse recovering from illness or injury just won't eat enough, and the horse owner must find ways to tempt the horse to eat more, or use feeds that are more nutrient dense. Karen Davison, PhD, an equine specialist with Purina Mills, says whenever a horse is a hard keeper, you should check for possible underlying problems.
Resistant Worms: Do Your Horses Have Them? September/2004
EDITOR'S NOTE: This is part nine of a 12-part series on internal parasites of horses. Most people assume that when they administer a tube of dewormer to a horse, the drug is effectively killing worms. The drug must work--it says so there on the label.
Diarrhea in Adult Horses: Better Safe Than Sorry September/2004
You've seen the television ads for Pepto-Bismol and Kaopectate. They're geared to make you grin through your grimaces about that little problem everyone's embarrassed to talk about--diarrhea. But in horses, diarrhea--particularly persistent diarrhea in adult horses--is no laughing matter, and it's certainly not something you should keep to yourself.
The Australian Take on Laminitis August/2004
The second most-common killer of our horses after colic is laminitis. The disease is a crisis, and it is often chronic and life-altering. It can be caused by illness unrelated to the foot, such as a retained placenta or grain overload. It can be caused by trauma to the foot.
Drugs for the Deworming War August/2004
Editor's Note: This is part eight of a 12-part series on internal parasites of horses. The shelves at the local co-op or tack shop, and the pages of your animal health product catalog, all feature a bewildering array of dewormers. If you feel confused every time you have to make a decision about anthelmintic selection, it's no wonder.
It's Bad, It's Very Bad... July/2004
Midnight has come and gone by the time the Central Kentucky horseman pulls into the stableyard and unloads the young black mare. Both are bone-weary after a 15-hour trip home from the trainer's stable. The man leans on the fence, watching the horse nose around a small paddock lit by a dim light.
Stallion or Gelding? July/2004
A cryptorchid, also called a ridgling, is a male horse in which one or both testicles do not descend into the scrotum. In the developing fetus, the testicles are formed within the abdomen. As the fetus nears term, the inguinal rings and inguinal canal (passage through which the testicles descend) expand to allow for descent of the testicles into the scrotum.
Encephalitis: Many Causes, Deadly Outcome July/2004
Equine encephalitis has been around for a long time. Old-time horsemen simply referred to it as sleeping sickness. They knew that if a horse contracted it, the animal's prognosis was not great, and that if he did recover, his ability to perform might be compromised. While these horsemen were basically correct in their categorization, this is not a simple malady.
It's Not Greek to Them July/2004
When the Games of the XXVIII Olympiad begin with characteristic fanfare Aug. 13 in Athens--the birthplace of the ancient Olympic Games--approximately 10,500 of the world's greatest athletes will convene to match skills and wits in 28 sports. Leaving nothing to chance, competitors will be accompanied by coaches, trainers, medical doctors, psychologists, and therapists, all focused with their eyes on the prize--a cherished gold, silver, or bronze medal.
Parasite Primer Part 7: Parasites in the Environment July/2004
EDITOR'S NOTE: This is part seven of a 12-part series on internal parasites of horses. Back in January, in our first installment of this series, we described what makes a parasite different from other kinds of infectious organisms. One of those factors is that the offspring of adult parasites must return to the environment outside the horse in order to become capable of infecting a second animal, or re-infecting the original host.
Beasts of Burden June/2004
Any horse owner who tours the medieval gallery at a museum must stop at the displays of suits of armor and marvel. Imagine the sheer weight of such an outfit--then imagine trying to maneuver oneself into the saddle wearing it! Visions of metal-sheathed knights being lowered by crude cranes and slings onto their groaning draft horses might in fact be hyperbole since historians say knights usually managed to mount without extreme methods of assistance, but the burden borne by a noble warhorse of the 14th Century must still have been staggering. And it begs the question: How much weight can a horse carry?
Mud Management June/2004
Flanders and Swann, a singing comedy team from the United Kingdom, once penned a song that went like this: "Mud, mud, glorious mud, Nothing quite like it for cooling the blood. So follow me, follow, Down to the hollow, And there let us wallow In glorious mud!" Of course the song was written from the perspective of a hippo.
Diagnosis: Examining the Evidence (Parasite Primer Part 6) June/2004
Editor's note: This is part six of a twelve-part series on internal parasites of horses. How do you really know if your worm control program is working? If your horses are looking good, are they doing as well as they could be? If they are not doing as well as you would like despite frequent deworming, is the problem due to worms or to something else? How can you really tell? PARASITES TO COUNT DURING FECAL EXAMS thehorse.
Laid Up or Losing It? June/2004
Staring at the same four walls for days--or weeks--on end is never a welcome prospect. For some horses, however, it's just what the doctor ordered. Stall rest--a term that all horse owners and stable managers dread--is generally prescribed following severe injury such as fractures, large wounds, surgery, and in some cases of lameness. How strictly imposed the stall rest is depends upon the severity of the diagnosis.
Closing the Door to Problems June/2004
One of the most frequent terms you will hear used by veterinarians during breeding season is Caslick's. This mare needs one, or this mare is due to foal in 16 days and her Caslick's needs to be opened. If you are not familiar with broodmares, or haven't spent a lot of time around them, then this term might be unfamiliar.
Managing Hoof Problems in Horses June/2004
Just about every horse out there has what we might call a hoof problem on at least one of his four feet. It might be a simple mismatch that might not really be a problem, or it might be much more serious. In any case, hoof problems, regardless of scope, need to be managed properly to maximize the horse's soundness, comfort, and usefulness to you.
Feeding HYPP Horses May/2004
Horses with hyperkalemic periodic paralysis (HYPP) need careful dietary management to reduce or eliminate its characteristic muscle dysfunction attacks. While diet won't eliminate all signs, it can make an affected horse more comfortable and useful, and even save his life.
More Than a War of Words May/2004
More than a half-century ago, noted science fiction author Isaac Asimov began his acclaimed series of Robot novels, examining increasingly complex interactions between humans and robots in a future world. Asimov's underlying premise for the books was that robots had advanced sufficiently to become sentient beings.
Bumps and Bruises May/2004
Horses often get banged and bruised by running into things, being kicked by another horse, falling down when running and bucking, etc. It's not unusual to suddenly discover your horse has a large, soft lump on some part of his body. The most common areas are the hindquarters, chest, or along the ribs.
The Other Cancers May/2004
Is there an uglier word in medicine than "cancer?" This is true in human and veterinary medicine. Many of us view cancer as invasive, debilitating, and fatal. But those who know horses know that while cancer occurs in equids, most of these cancers are sarcoids and melanomas--cancers that are generally benign, but should receive attention from a veterinarian to ensure they aren't a danger to the horse.
Bots and Beyond: Little-Known Parasite Enemies May/2004
Editor's note: This is part five of a 12-part series on internal parasites of horses. When it comes to parasites, worms aren't your horse's only worry. Although nematodes and cestodes (or more colloquially, roundworms and tapeworms) make up the biggest demographic in the parasite "neighborhood" in your horse's insides, there's one other major class of internal pest you need to be concerned about--the larvae of the bot fly.
Shot Spots May/2004
All in all, vaccine reactions are very rare, and the process of vaccination against a disease process is one of the best ways you can safeguard your horse's health. Vaccination is one of the most impressive discoveries of modern medicine; the ability to protect a horse against the ill effects of several severe and often fatal diseases is a huge benefit.
The Creeping Crud May/2004
Dealing with skin problems, unfortunately, is part of having a horse. Since skin is the largest organ of the body, it's no wonder there's much that can go wrong. Designed to safeguard internal organs from external forces and to help maintain consistent temperature, water, and nutrient levels, the skin is an integral part of a horse's health.
Breathe Deep April/2004
Lower airway disease is all too common among the horse population--the occasional cough in the young racehorse that belies serious disease, the wheezy horse which can't tolerate his barn, the backyard horse which always seems to have a cough or nasal discharge. It's no surprise that researchers around the world are engaged in finding the causes and cures of inflamed airway passages.
Obesity and Cushing's Disease April/2004
Cushing's disease has been around for a long time in people, horses, and other animals. For years, theories and information concerning the affliction all centered on one source for the problem--tumors of the pituitary gland, which is located at the base of the brain. In the case of horses, it was generally felt that benign tumors in the intermediate lobe of the horse's pituitary gland resulted in an inappropriate secretion of hormones, which brought on Cushing's disease.
Not Just Skin Deep April/2004
Poco Bueno was a giant among horses. Built like a rock, he possessed power and speed. He was a champion in the show ring, then retired to stud. His greatness was carried on in succeeding generations of Quarter Horses. Today, it is primarily through Poco Bueno's bloodline, say researchers at Mississippi State University and Cornell University, that the recessive gene that causes hyperelastosis cutis (HC) has passed.
Halt the Assault April/2004
In 2003, a total of 5,087 horses and more than 9,000 humans were infected with West Nile virus (WNV), according to the USDA's Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service, the Center for Disease Control, and individual state statistics. The statistics are sobering.
Strongyles: The Worst of the Worms April/2004
Ever since the battle against internal parasites began, researchers, veterinarians, and horse owners have recognized a common enemy--strongyles, sometimes called bloodworms (or, in the United Kingdom, redworms). The largest and most significant family of worms in horses, they're also the most dangerous.
The Death Squad April/2004
Choosing a fly, mosquito, or tick formula for your horse or barn is a lot like selecting a hand lotion: You can pick from extra moisturizing, scented, hypoallergenic, etc., or packaged in tubes, jars, bottles, but the bottom line is they are all still lotions.
Ready for Retirement? April/2004
In the 1993 movie Grumpy Old Men (and its 1995 sequel Grumpier Old Men), two ornery curmudgeons curse, whine, and complain their way through senior citizenry. In the 1985 feel-good flick Cocoon, a group of old age home residents escape to outer space to reclaim their youth.
Post-Surgical Care March/2004
"Your horse is ready to be released to your care at home." These words bring relief that the surgery is past and your horse is ready to return to the farm. But then, you have an anxious moment wondering how to manage a post-operative situation.
AAEP Wrap-Up: The Equine Eye March/2004
Eye problems in the horse were discussed by Dennis Brooks, DVM, PhD, Dipl. ACVO, a professor of ophthalmology at the University of Florida, at Horseman's Day during AAEP. "There are really only two ophthalmic disease: Corneal ulcers and everything else," said Brooks.
Recurrent Colic Q&A March/2004
My horse has recurrent colic that's usually fairly mild, but she had surgery last August due to a twist. She has done well until recently when she had another mild attack. A biopsy taken during surgery showed inflammation.
AAEP Wrap-Up: Compounding March/2004
Charlotte A. Lacroix, DVM, Esq. (attorney) of New Jersey, presented a session on compounding at the convention. Lacroix cautioned her veterinary audience that illegal compounding is a potential tidal wave in liability. The FDA says a drug is any substance, food, or non-food used to treat, cure, mitigate, or prevent a disease.
AAEP Wrap-Up: Foal Care March/2004
Failure of Passive Transfer When a newborn foal fails to obtain the antibodies he needs from his mother in his first hours of life, he can become very sick or even die from septicemia (body-wide infection). Quick identification of failure of passive transfer (FPT) is key to his survival, but the "gold standard" RID IgG test for FPT takes 18-24 hours.
AAEP Wrap-Up: Further Reading March/2004
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 thehorse.
AAEP Wrap-Up: The Equine Stomach March/2004
The Milne Lecture, named for AAEP past president and distinguished life member Frank J. Milne, each year honors a researcher for his lifetime of work in a specific field. This year the presenter was Alfred Merritt, DVM, MS, of the University of Florida, who spoke on "The Equine Stomach: A Personal Experience (1963-2003).
AAEP Wrap-Up: Learning in the Big Easy March/2004
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.
AAEP Wrap-Up: Kester News Hour March/2004
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 March/2004
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.
AAEP Wrap-Up: Lameness March/2004
P3 Alignment In Laminitic Horses "Chronic laminitis is a frustrating and, at times, disheartening condition to manage," said Stephen O'Grady, BVSc, MRCVS. "Treating chronic laminitis is always a challenge; here we move a bit away from veterinary medicine into the mechanics of farriery.
AAEP Wrap-Up: Medicine and Treatments March/2004
Signs of Gastrointestinal Rupture 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. Results of the study could help veterinarians know what signs to look for to make a definitive diagnosis of intestinal rupture, thus allowing them to prevent prolonged suffering of the affected horse and additional expense to the horse owner, as euthanasia for a horse with a ruptured intestine is inevitable.
AAEP Wrap-Up: Neurologic Disease/WNV March/2004
Subclinical Exposure Rate to WNV It's extremely important to vaccinate horses at least two months before the West Nile virus (WNV) season, according to Maureen Long, DVM, PhD, Dipl. ACVIM, assistant professor of large animal veterinary medicine at the University of Florida.
AAEP Wrap-Up: Nutrition March/2004
Geriatric Nutrition David Pugh, DVM, MS, Dipl. ACT, ACVN, of Auburn University, spoke at the AAEP's Horseman's Day on Geriatric Nutrition. He said a geriatric is a horse over 20 years of age. "Just like us when we age, horses have problems," said Pugh.
AAEP Wrap-Up: Reproduction March/2004
Feeding for Stallion Fertility 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.
AAEP Wrap-Up: Performance Horse March/2004
Shock Wave Therapy The general consensus question at the 2003 AAEP Convention's shock wave therapy table topic was, "How can I make this technology work for my patients?" Scott Swerdlin, DVM, MRCVS, of Palm Beach Equine Clinic in Florida, and Scott McClure, DVM, PhD, Dipl. ACVS, of Iowa State University's College of Veterinary Medicine, were facilitators.
AAEP Wrap-Up: Vaccines March/2004
Comparative Efficacy of Vaccines 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.
Ascarids: A Growing Problem March/2004
Editor's Note: This is part 3 in a 12-part series on internal parasites of horses. In the world of internal parasites, ascarids get no respect. Unlike strongyles, they aren't a high-drama threat to your horse's health, and they aren't a "hot topic" parasite like the tapeworm. But that doesn't mean they should be overlooked or discounted in your war on worms.
Diseases of Dietary Origin March/2004
The axiom, "You are what you eat" does have relevance to horses with regard to health and well-being. Although horses have evolved to eat plant material, not all plants are safe to eat. Some food substances directly exert toxic effects, while others grow fungi that do so.
Dogs and Horses: Predators and Prey March/2004
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 it off in a big way and look forward to a long and active friendship.
Heavy Horse Health Problems March/2004
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 just providing locomotion to those who want a horse with a calmer disposition and greater weight-carrying ability.
The Art of Good Neighbors March/2004
"I have come home to look after my fences."--Senator John Sherman (1823-1900), from a speech to his neighbors When it comes to horse fences and the building and maintenance thereof, let's face it, we have all sometimes felt rather like that ol' rascal Tom Sawyer. As Mark Twain described one fateful day: "Tom appeared on the sidewalk with a bucket of whitewash and a long-handled brush.
A Place Apart February/2004
(Editor's Note: This is the first installment of a two-part series on safe, healthy fencing. Next month: Construction and Maintenance.) Before I built a wall I'd ask to know: What I was walling in or walling out. --Mending Wall, by Robert Frost In answer to the venerable poet's query, we must respond: The horse, Mr.
Safe at Work February/2004
Whether riding a reining pattern or jumping a Grand Prix course, the arena is one of the oldest established venues where equine performance is trained and measured. Arena competitions date back to the times when horse-drawn chariots dashed wildly around the Roman Coliseum.
Tapeworms: An Underrated Threat February/2004
EDITOR'S NOTE: This is part two of a 12-part series on internal parasites of horses. Of all the types of internal parasites that plague our horses, the one that was long considered fairly inconsequential was the tapeworm--an intestinal innocent bystander, if you will. Parasitologists knew that horses, like most mammals, harbored a few species of these cestodes (flat, segmented worms; in contrast to most equine worms, which are nematodes, or roundworms).
Hands On and Happy (Massage) January/2004
Throughout history, different forms of massage have been used in cultures to relieve pain and tension in soft tissues. We humans know that massage usually feels good and provides relaxation to us, so we assume that the same will be true for our horses. Although it might seem improbable given the many forms of manual therapies, the wide-ranging term "massage" can be defined as simply the application of pressure and traction to the soft tissues of the body, whether that body is human or horse.
Bad Bug Basics (Parasite Primer Part 1) January/2004
EDITOR'S NOTE: This is part one of a 12-part series on internal parasites of horses. It seems that every year, major equine publications take on a virtually impossible task. They publish an omnibus article on equine parasitology that attempts to describe the biology of everything from pinworms to stable flies, discuss the numerous ways in which parasites can harm equine hosts, list the multitude of drugs available for treating parasitic infections, and present a variety of control strategies, all in one user-friendly package.
The Goal is a Foal January/2004
If your broodmare or stallion is having reproductive problems, you might need a specialist to figure out what's wrong. And that specialist might use knowledge gained from the annual conference of the Society for Theriogenology held in Columbus, Ohio, Sept. 16-20.
Serving the Industry November/2003
YOUR GUIDE TO THE 2003 AAEP CONVENTION NEW PRODUCTS AND EDUCATIONAL OPPORTUNITIES The American Association of Equine Practitioners (AAEP) is the leading provider of continuing education for veterinarians. Their education not only comes from the lectures given in the vast, darkened halls, but from the brightly lit exhibit hall.
Strangles: Horses at Risk November/2003
Strangles is a malady that has afflicted horses for hundreds of years. In fact, it was first described in a veterinary publication back in 1614. During the ensuing years, many horses have suffered from strangles. Most have recovered, but some have not.
Hunter's Bump October/2003
Named for the sport in which it often occurs, hunter's (or jumper's) bump is a sometimes painful pelvic condition that affects performance and gait. It's tricky to diagnose, occurs in horses which do many different disciplines, and can be an acute or chronic condition. Hunter's bump is a prominence of the tuber sacrale, a part of the hip bone that lies at the highest point of both sides of the horse's croup.
Long-Eared Lovin' October/2003
Donkeys and mules have played, and continue to play, an important role on the equine stage. Mules in particular are used for everything from pleasure riding and packing to dressage, racing, and jumping. Donkeys are family pets in many instances and, of course, are a necessary ingredient in the production of mules.
Dealing With EPM Today September/2003
While West Nile virus continues to dominate headlines when it comes to equine health, researchers are working to unlock the mysteries of that other, not-quite-so-new disease--equine protozoal myeloencephalitis (EPM). High on the list is understanding the life cycle of the disease.
Terrorism Targets September/2003
September 11, 2001, did more to the American consciousness than make us aware that we are vulnerable to something as heinous as hijacked airplanes being crashed into densely populated office buildings. The September 11 attacks also brought with them the realization that if terrorists want to strike a blow against this country, there are a variety of approaches they might take, including the use of our own animals as weapons.
Limb Deformities: Congenital or Acquired? July/2003
As the foal takes his initial stance, a proud owner takes stock to see how straight and strong the youngster's legs are. Many foals are born with seemingly crooked legs (congenital). Most of these crooked legs straighten by the time the foal is a couple of weeks or months old.
Upper Airway Problems in Horses July/2003
Noise and exercise intolerance...those are the usual signs of an upper airway disorder. Many things can go wrong with a horse's breathing mechanisms that don't involve the lungs. The diagnoses aren't always accurate, and treatments aren't totally effective, but researchers are finding new ways to handle these complicated problems.
Life Without Mom July/2003
One of the most traumatic times in a young horse's life is when he is separated from his mother at weaning time. From birth, he has been dependent on the mare for sustenance and protection. At weaning time that changes, and the youngster must cope with the world, minus his mother's protective presence.
Drugs and Competition June/2003
The use of drugs in the competition horse carries with it some extra concerns and responsibilities. Many of the major issues related to drug use in the performance horse involve the treatment of lameness. It is imperative that the moral and ethical line between treating minor pains and more serious injuries be quite clear.
No More Hitchhikers June/2003
Internal parasites are insidious culprits. They steal, damage, and even kill. The worst part of the whole scenario is that they can't be totally eliminated, only controlled. In the theft department, internal parasites rob in two ways: First, they steal nutrients from the horse's body; second, they take money from the owner's pocket in the form of lost food value.
A Horse of a Different Color May/2003
What is your favorite color of horse? Is it the pitch black of Walter Farley's Black Stallion? The whiteness of the Lone Ranger's Silver? The sunshine gold of Roy Rogers' Trigger? How does a breeder capitalize on the fancy colors that bring big bucks? Unfortunately, it's not always as simple as breeding a black stallion to a black mare to get a black foal. The late Ann Bowling, PhD, author of Horse Genetics; and Phillip Sponenberg, DVM, PhD, of the Virginia-Maryland Regional College of Veterinary Medicine, have both done extensive research into the specifics of coat color genetics and their expertise will help you understand how horses pass color from one generation to the next.
Heritability of Behavior May/2003
One of the most complex and least-studied subjects involving the horse is heritability of behavior. Do horses truly inherit behavioral traits, or do these traits simply come into being as the result of environmental factors and influences? There are a couple of reasons why there are few learned answers to this question. First, it is a complex issue because a great many factors are involved in behavior patterns.
It's Enough to Give Him an Ulcer! May/2003
If your horse does more than walk around his pasture eating grass, he is at risk for ulcers. The equine life of leisure--grazing in the sun on lush grass, no worries about when that ambitious owner will appear to ride or train--isn't reality for most horses. The demands of training can precipitate a pain in the gut--also known as equine gastric ulcer syndrome (EGUS).
Camping With Your Horse April/2003
Whether it is the increased stress of daily life or the baby-boomer generation wanting to experience the roots of their pioneer forefathers, more and more people are setting out to see the country from horseback. As a result, equestrian campgrounds have multiplied throughout the country and the design of horse trailers has changed drastically to cater to the comfort of weekend or week-long campers.
Embryo Transfer April/2003
Advanced reproductive technologies that can be used in horses are expanding every year. Geography is no longer a limiting factor in choosing a mate for your mare, as fresh cooled semen can be shipped across North America with ease. Frozen semen also means stallions from other continents can be used.
The Right Saddle for the Job April/2003
What is good saddle fit? Simply put, it involves a saddle--English or Western--that spreads weight evenly on the longissimus dorsi muscles along either side of the spine. This well-fit saddle has clearance over the withers and doesn't impede movement of the scapulas (shoulder blades).
On the Road Again April/2003
While transporting a horse of any age raises health and safety concerns, horses in their late teens and older require special attention, especially during a long haul. Thanks to advances in equine research and medicine, older horses are stronger and healthier than they have ever been, but like elderly people, the road-bound senior horse will have his own aches, pains, and potential travel-related illnesses to worry about.
Common Skin Problems March/2003
We used to call it the "creeping crud"--a colorful, youthful label applicable to any gross-out skin disease the horse happened to have (and not to be confused with the cold-and-flu-like symptoms in humans that earned the same appellation). Besides the crud, there were also those weird little bumps that could show up now and then on the horse--not quite as disgusting, but unpleasant nevertheless.
Ouch! That Hurts! March/2003
Pain. The Merriam-Webster electronic dictionary defines pain as 1: punishment; 2: usually localized physical suffering associated with bodily disorder (as a disease or an injury); also, a basic bodily sensation induced by a noxious stimulus, received by naked nerve endings, characterized by physical discomfort (as pricking, throbbing, or aching), and typically leading to evasive action. In equine terms, it sounds like a pretty good description--something that is punishing and which leads to evasive action.
AAEP Convention: Learned Vets March/2003
The American Association of Equine Practitioners (AAEP) is the leading provider of continuing education for veterinarians who deal with horses. The association is also committed to educating horse owners, and that commitment is growing as evidenced by the development of an Owner Education Committee and plans for assisting veterinarians in educating their clients through electronic and print means, lectures, and one-on-one communication. The 2002 convention (held Dec.
AAEP Convention: Antimicrobial Resistance March/2003
Antimicrobial drugs in veterinary medicine have made a dramatic improvement in the health of our horses, but it's alarming when infections do not respond to these drugs. "It is not a new phenomenon, but there has been ever-growing concern about antimicrobial resistance," said Josie Traub-Dargatz, DVM, MS, Dipl.
AAEP Convention: Behavior--Ground Handling the Problem Horse March/2003
Every veterinarian has had an equine client that resisted treatment and often a nightmarish story to go along with it. Compliant patients allow for safer and more efficient veterinary practices, so the American Association of Equine Practitioners (AAEP) teamed up with the American Quarter Horse Association at the AAEP convention to offer veterinarians a live horse demonstration titled "Ground Handling the Problem Horse." The session combined the instructional talents of Joe Wolter, trainer for the renowned Four Sixes Ranch in Guthrie, Texas; and Mark Fitch, DVM, who practices in Boulder, Colo.
AAEP Convention: Dentistry March/2003
DENTISTRY TABLE TOPIC "Dental Concerns of Older Horses" was the focus of one lunchtime Table Topic, with subjects ranging from diet selection to systemic illness to sedation. With veterinarians filling all seats and standing against the walls, discussion was lively at times.
AAEP Convention: Preventing EPM March/2003
"Why should we be concerned about EPM (equine protozoal myeloencephalitis)?" asked William J.A. Saville, DVM, Dipl. ACVIM, PhD, of The Ohio State University (OSU). "Because it is still an important equine disease, although we have a low incidence of the disease, and regardless of therapies available to treat EPM, it still results in neurological deficits.
AAEP Convention: Further Reading March/2003
There were many more presentations and discussions at this year's AAEP Convention than could be contained in these pages. Other articles from the convention can be found online at TheHorse.
AAEP Convention: Horseman's Day March/2003
Horseman's Day, held for the third time as part of the annual AAEP convention, was another rousing success. Helping stimulate the interest and enthusiasm was the quality of the speakers. They couched their talks in terms the average horse owner could understand, but they certainly didn't talk down to them.
AAEP Convention: Kester News Hour March/2003
Probably the best-attended session of the AAEP annual convention, the Kester News Hour provides brief reports of studies that were too new or too brief to be included in the longer scientific sessions. Larry Bramlage, DVM, MS, Dipl.
AAEP Convention: Lameness March/2003
MILNE LECTURE PART 1 Bucked Shins The Milne Lecture is also known as the State of the Art Lecture because each year's topic is selected for its groundbreaking qualities and potential to change the paradigms by which veterinarians and researchers understand that topic. This year's Milne Lecture (which is named after Frank J.
AAEP Convention: New/Emerging Diseases March/2003
INFECTIOUS DISEASE FORUM With West Nile virus (WNV) marching across the United States and affecting both horses and humans, infectious disease prevention has been a hot topic in barns, the media, veterinary clinics, and elsewhere. During the Infectious Disease Forum, moderated by Josie Traub-Dargatz, DVM, MS, Dipl.
AAEP Convention: Nutrition March/2003
RECENT DEVELOPMENTS IN EQUINE NUTRITION A lot has happened in the field of equine nutrition research in the last five years. Ginger Rich, PhD, of Rich Equine Nutritional Consulting in Eads, Tenn.; and Leslie Breuer, PhD, of LH Breuer and Associates, updated veterinarians who attended the Current Concepts in Equine Nutrition in-depth session at the convention.
AAEP Convention: Botulism in Foals March/2003
Pamela Wilkins, DVM, PhD, of the Graham French Neonatal Intensive Care Unit at the University of Pennsylvania's New Bolton Center, said that she has had a positive experience in treating botulism-affected foals. In her presentation "Botulism in Foals: A Survivable Disease," she said that botulism in foals less than six months of age is readily treated, with a survival rate of more than 95% in appropriately treated foals.
AAEP Convention: Peripheral Cushing's March/2003
Peripheral Cushing's syndrome (PCS) is a recently named problem seen in middle-aged horses and ponies with obesity-associated laminitis. These horses tend to accumulate fat in the crest of the neck, over the rump, and in the sheath of males. It was first proposed that classic Cushing's disease--a pituitary gland disorder that leads to excessive cortisol levels in the blood--was causing the obesity-associated laminitis.
AAEP Convention: Reproduction March/2003
The reproduction session was something of an A to Z seminar. It started with discussions on endometrial echotexture (ultrasound results) and using computer analysis to determine when a mare will ovulate, or has ovulated, and along the way included a French researcher describing how to turn an unbred mare which has previously given birth into a nurse mare capable of producing enough milk to sustain a foal until weaning time. Ultrasound to Predict Ovulation Elaine Carnevale, DVM, PhD, of Colorado State University, discussed computer-assisted analysis of follicles to determine the interval before and after ovulation.
AAEP Convention: Emergency Rescue March/2003
Many of us have seen the daring and exciting rescues of horses shown on television--such as rescuing a horse hanging from a bridge, or one trapped in a river. Then there's the famous scene of a horse being rescued by helicopter.
AAEP Convention: Respiratory Problems March/2003
INFLUENZA "Diseases like flu and herpesvirus are always going to be problems for horse owners, and they are not going away," said Tom Chambers, PhD, of the University of Kentucky's Gluck Equine Research Center. "The secret to effective vaccines for flu is effective surveillance," which allows researchers and vaccine manufactures to stay abreast of which strains are causing illness.
Learned Vets February/2003
The American Association of Equine Practitioners (AAEP) is the leading provider of continuing education for veterinarians who deal with horses. The association is also committed to educating horse owners, and that commitment is growing as evidenced by the development of an Owner Education Committee and plans for assisting veterinarians in educating their clients through electronic and print means, lectures, and one-on-one communication. The 2002 convention (held Dec.
Retina and Optic Nerve Disease December/2002
The retina is one of the most metabolically active tissues in the body. It consists of 10 layers of cells and nerve fibers. Nine layers compose the sensory retina, with a final layer, the retinal pigment epithelium (RPE), present next to the choroids (the primary blood supply to the horse retina). Light passing through the cornea, anterior chamber, lens, and vitreous is absorbed and organized by retinal cells, which then transform the light into electrical signals that pass along the optic nerve fibers to the brain.
AAEP Preview: Convention Topics Preview November/2002
The latest information on a wide range of horse health topics will be presented at the 2002 AAEP convention. While we can't give you a preview of them all, we wanted to bring you a representative sample of the educational opportunities. Look for in-depth coverage following the convention in our AAEP Wrap-Up--which mails with the February 2003 issue--and online at
AAEP Preview: Horseman's Day November/2002
The third Horseman's Day will be held as part of the AAEP's annual veterinary convention in Orlando, Fla., Dec. 8. It's hard for attendees to pass up the chance to have not only excellent lectures, but one-on-one time with some of the country's best veterinarians. For example, Frank Andrews, DVM, MS, Dipl.
Equine Glaucoma November/2002
The glaucomas are a group of diseases resulting from alterations in the formation and drainage of aqueous humor (clear eye fluid), which causes an increase in intraocular (within the eye) pressure (IOP) above that compatible with normal function of the retina and optic nerve. Blindness is the final outcome due to permanent damage to the optic nerve.
Expecting Company? November/2002
 The birth of a foal can be a nerve-racking, not to mention exhausting, experience--and not just for the mare. The humans involved can expect many sleepless nights in anticipation of being there for the big moment. An attended delivery will allow the detection of any problems during the birth, or immediately after.
AAEP Preview: State of the Art Lecture November/2002
Innovation in equine medicine is the hallmark of the AAEP Convention's State of the Art Lecture, and this year will be no different. David M. Nunamaker, VMD, Chairman and Jacques Jenny Professor of Orthopaedic Surgery of the New Bolton Center's Department of Clinical Studies, will present New Bolton Center research on bucked shins and fracture treatment in horses on Friday, Dec. 6.
AAEP Preview: An Educational State November/2002
While "the mouse" usually is king in Orlando, for a week in early December the horse takes center stage as the American Association of Equine Practitioners (AAEP) descends on that city for its annual convention. The AAEP hosts some of the best continuing education venues for veterinarians and horse owners throughout the year, but the annual convention is its largest, and best attended.
Understanding Equine Recurrent Uveitis (ERU) October/2002
Horses exhibit eye pain for a variety of reasons and to varying degrees. As we've discussed previously, the most common cause is corneal ulceration. In this article, we'll discuss uveitis, which requires a very different kind of treatment than that used for ulcers. Uveitis means inflammation inside the eye; it can be combined with other words to describe exactly where in the eye the inflammation occurs.
Sexually Transmitted Diseases October/2002
You're preparing your mare for the upcoming breeding season. The stud owner insists on a bacterial culture of your mare's uterus prior to live breeding to reduce the chances of her passing any sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) she might have to the stallion. But what about the stallion? The mare has a higher risk of contracting an STD from the stallion than vice versa.
Cataracts and Lens Problems September/2002
Everyone has heard of cataracts. We think of them as affecting older humans, and sometimes they are found in children and young adults. Yet, cataracts also are seen in horses. A cataract is an opacity or clouding of the lens (a large transparent structure found midway between the cornea and the retina that is used to focus images close to the horse's head.
The Dreaded Corneal Stromal Abscess August/2002
The corneal stromal abscess is a very serious and potentially vision-threatening condition that can follow apparently minor corneal ulceration in the horse (see Figures 1 and 4 on page 56). They can be infected and cause severe eye pain.
Locked Into Place August/2002
Much has been learned about exertional rhabdomyolysis (tying-up) in recent years, but unfortunately some of that knowledge has been troubling. For example, at least one newly recognized cause of tying-up in foals has, in identified cases, always been fatal. This syndrome, known as glycogen branching enzyme deficiency (GBED), is an inherited malady for which there is no known cure.
Just Gotta Gnaw July/2002
Cribbing and wood chewing by horses can create problems for horse and owner alike. Wood chewing is often considered by many owners to be a rather benign vice, while cribbing more frequently is considered to be a direct threat to the horse's well-being. However, both can be irritating to the caretaker.
Breathe Easier! July/2002
When Anne Thomas called me to her ranch house early one spring morning, she said it was urgent. Her 5-year-old horse, Charlie, was having trouble breathing. When I arrived at the barn, I could see the bay gelding standing in the middle of his paddock, and although I was 50 feet away, I could already see the problem.
Mosquito Patrol July/2002
Mosquitoes are more than a nuisance, they are a public and equine health hazard. In addition to spreading West Nile virus (WNV), mosquitoes can carry malaria, yellow fever, dengue, filariasus (e.g.
Corneal Disease July/2002
Corneal diseases are collectively termed keratopathies. Keratopathies can be ulcerated or non-ulcerated, and infected or non-infected. Keratopathies can be rather benign diseases, or can be so severe that they result in corneal scarring and blindness if not properly diagnosed and treated. Corneal Lacerations/Perforations Ocular eye trauma can vary widely.
Fungal Ulcers in the Equine Eye June/2002
Fungi are microscopic plants that lack chlorophyll; they are commonly found in the hay, grasses, shavings, straw, and dust of a horse's environment. They normally live in balance with bacteria on the surface of the horse cornea and conjunctiva. For example, nearly all healthy horses living in Florida (95%) have fungi living on the surface of their eyes; the percentage undoubtedly varies from one geographic area to another.
From Forge to Foot June/2002
There isn't much time in the busy farrier's life to chat with his brethren of the forge. On the road before daylight, driving endless hours, and arriving home late at night after a hard day's work doesn't leave much time for socializing. However, the annual American Farrier's Association (AFA) Convention not only lets farriers get together for a good time, but allows them to compete in various "smithing" skills and to sit in on lectures and demonstrations from industry leaders.
IV Complications May/2002
What would happen to your horse if both of his jugular veins were damaged so that they were off-limits for taking blood for testing or administering medications and hampered the drainage of blood from his head? Sometimes an intravenous (IV) injection of medication or administration of fluid can cause inflammation of a vein (thrombophlebitis) or blockage of the vein (thrombosis) due to the formation of a blood clot. Irritating medications (such as phenylbutazone and tetracyclines) that slip outside the vein or a catheter left in place for too long are some of the more common things that can cause problems in veins.
All Aboard May/2002
If you've never endured the patience-battering task of convincing an unwilling horse to enter a waiting trailer, you're one of the lucky few. Most horse owners know this scenario from personal experience and understand the frustration and flaring tempers usually involved. Simply put, it's a recipe for trouble and trauma.
EPM Medication Q&A May/2002
My horse was diagnosed with EPM last year. We tried Baycox for one month--no change. Since then, he has been on a daily dosage of sulfadiazine/pyrimethamine combination (SDZ/PYR) for approximately nine months. Would it be advisable to give him Marquis and SDZ/PYR together? One veterinarian says yes, another no.
Bacterial Corneal Ulcers May/2002
The cornea is a thin and transparent, yet extremely strong tissue that supplies a majority of the eye's refractive, or light-bending, power. It is one of the most sensitive tissues in the body. The thickness of the equine cornea is about 1.
Hoofcare Education at Bluegrass Laminitis Symposium April/2002
One of the most common comments at the 15th annual Bluegrass Laminitis Symposium in Louisville, Ky., Jan. 21-23, 2002, was that if farriers or veterinarians don't have a passion for working on laminitic horses, they shouldn't take the cases. Horse owners know that a laminitic horse is a high-maintenance case in terms of treatment and convalescent care, but perhaps we don't always think of just how much commitment is involved on a day-to-day basis.
"Alternative Therapy" Associations April/2002
I remember when acupuncture was introduced in a big way to American human medicine back in the 1970s. It was a strange concept, full of energy fields and Chi, focusing on painless surgery performed without anesthesia. It made for fascinating television viewing, but was easy to dismiss as voodoo medicine.
Combat Stiffness April/2002
Day after day, you battle with your horse to get the correct left bend. Or maybe the trouble comes when you ask him to pick up the right lead, push off his hind end, or stretch out into a longer stride. Instead of a willing response, all you get is resistance.
Eyelid Problems April/2002
This month we continue our in-depth look at the equine eye by focusing on eyelids. Without the eyelid to protect the sensitive structures of the eye, the horse would go blind very quickly. Therefore, even small injuries are important and require veterinary attention.
Evaluating Reproductive Health in Mares April/2002
The reproductive system of the horse has evolved over time with specific protective functions that are necessary for fertility. The horse and pig are the only domestic animals in which semen is deposited directly into the uterus, in contrast to ruminants and small animals where semen is deposited in the vagina and the sperm cells migrate through the cervix. There is, therefore, considerably more contamination of the uterus of mares and sows with the seminal plasma, excessive sperm cells, and external contaminants in the normal breeding process.
Smaller Horses, Bigger Reproductive Problems March/2002
Big gifts come in small packages. That's a fine sentiment when it comes to presents, but when it refers to miniature horse reproduction, that big gift/small package combo can be a little tough on the mare. It's not so great for the foal, either.
Common Foal Eye Problems March/2002
The foal's eyes are fully developed at birth. Disorders of the foal eye might be noted at birth, or they can be inherited or acquired after birth. Low tear film production, a round pupil, reduced corneal sensation, and a temporary lack of some neurologic eye reflexes are found in all newborn foals, but the values become adult-like with time. These temporary problems can affect healing of the eye if it's injured while they are still present, so it's important to understand them.
The Equine Immune System March/2002
Vaccines are designed based on the specific nature of an antibody response to an antigen. In other words, the antibody will work only against the antigen that stimulated its production. A "booster" creates more antibodies, a quicker response, and longer protection.
The Young Horse Upper Airway February/2002
It has become commonplace for an upper respiratory tract (URT) endoscopy to be performed at pre- and post-sale examinations of young horses--especially at Thoroughbred sales. To address what is normal and what is abnormal, Rolf M.
Uterine Tubal Patency Examination February/2002
Breeding is big business. Those who doubt need only look at the results of the 1998 Keeneland November breeding stock sale for verification. Prices for broodmares and weanlings soared--top price for a broodmare, $7 million; for a weanling, $1.5 million.
Look Into His Eyes February/2002
It is important to approach each eye problem in the horse in an ordered and systematic manner, and also as a medical emergency. Painful eye conditions in horses need thorough evaluation for corneal ulcers, corneal abscesses, and uveal inflammatory diseases (such as uveitis or moon blindness). The majority of cases can be diagnosed by using standard ophthalmic clinical examination techniques.
A World on the Move February/2002
The World Equine Veterinary Association (WEVA) met in Sorrento, Italy, in conjunction with the October 2001 Italian veterinary association annual meeting. WEVA meets every other year in locations designed to attract veterinarians from countries that don't have readily accessible continuing education programs.
Breaking New Ground: AAEP Convention 2001 February/2002
So much to learn, so little time. That seemed to be the general feeling at the 2001 American Association of Equine Practitioners (AAEP) convention. While some veterinarians likened it to a smorgasbord of educational goodies, others said there was too much to choose from with too little time for one-on-one, unstructured conversations with colleagues. But everyone agreed that it was good to have an abundance of presentations in which they were interested, and that were useful to their day-to-day practices.
Hands-On Training: AAEP Convention Wet Labs February/2002
A series of wet labs was available to veterinarians before and after the scientific sessions. The lab topics included dentistry, lameness diagnosis, neurology, reproduction, ultrasound, advanced ultrasound, and laser surgery. Juan Samper, DVM, PhD, Dipl.
AAEP Convention 2001: Equine Arthritis February/2002
Disease Processes of  Synovial Membrane, Fibrous Capsules, Ligaments, Articular Cartilage Scientists' understanding of non-infective arthritis dramatically advances every year, and each year when the American Association of Equine Practitioners (AAEP) meets, practitioners have the opportunity to absorb the newest information on these perplexing diseases presented by some of the veterinary community's most respected joint disease specialists. C.
AAEP Convention 2001: Bits and Bitting February/2002
"The way to ride a horse," Dwight Bennett, DVM, PhD, professor emeritus at Colorado State University, told his listeners in a session on Bits and Bitting, "is with the seat of your pants and your legs." The session on bits was something of a departure from normal AAEP programs as it offered a practical approach in learning how to place the appropriate bit in a horse's mouth and how to use the bit in a manner that stimulates response, but not injury.
AAEP Convention 2001: Veterinary Forums February/2002
The day before the scientific sessions started during the AAEP Convention, there was a series of forums and committee meetings. These were moderated by selected experts in those fields, and were open to anyone for a majority of the time. The last 45 minutes of the meetings were open only to AAEP members to discuss anything they felt was too sensitive to broach during open sessions.
AAEP Convention 2001: Gastrointestinal Disease February/2002
Milne Lecture Hundreds of veterinarians waited patiently in line in San Diego, Calif., on the afternoon of Nov. 26--and not at the airport. They were waiting in the AAEP trade show to purchase a copy of  "The Glass Horse," a digital, three-dimensional electronic horse model developed by James N. Moore, DVM, PhD, and two of his colleagues at the University of Georgia.
AAEP Convention 2001: General Medicine February/2002
Hormone Responses to Feeds Joe Pagan, PhD, owner of Kentucky Equine Research in Versailles, Ky., discussed glycemic response in growing horses as an indicator of developmental orthopedic disease. He said looking at diet and skeletal disease was nothing new--a study done at The Ohio State University (presented at the 1985 AAEP convention) changed the way horse owners feed young, growing stock.
AAEP Convention 2001: Disease Control February/2002
Antibiotic Treatment for Horses When treating horses with antibiotics, veterinarians must consider several factors. These factors include determining what bacteria the antibiotic is to treat, the susceptibility and resistance of the bacteria to various antibiotics, the dose and frequency of administration, the type of administration that is most effective, how the antibiotic works to kill the harmful bacteria, and what other effects the antibiotic could have in the horse. Mark Papich, DVM, MS, Dipl.
AAEP Convention 2001: Horseman's Day February/2002
More than 350 horse owners turned out to hear six speakers at the second annual Horseman's Day, held in conjunction with the annual AAEP convention. In almost every case, those in attendance were still raising their hands with questions when moderator Eleanor Green, DVM, Dean of the vet school at the University of Florida, was forced to halt the discussion to introduce the next speaker. The speakers agreed to stay at the session so they could field questions during breaks.
AAEP Convention 2001: Kester News Hour February/2002
The Kester News Hour kicked off the scientific program of the AAEP convention. Named for the late veterinarian General Wayne O. "Sage" Kester, first president of the AAEP, the hour was designed to cover timely topics that were too brief and/or too new to be included in the scientific portion of the convention. Larry Bramlage, DVM, MS, Dipl.
AAEP Convention 2001: Lameness in Horses February/2002
There are many lameness problems that are associated with the use of a horse in a specific discipline, or the conformation of horses selected for use in a discipline. However, there are some problems that are universal, and the diagnosis and treatment of those problems will follow similar lines.
AAEP Convention 2001: Pediatric Medicine February/2002
Investigating Respiratory Disease Debra Sellon, DVM, PhD, of Washington State University's College of Veterinary Medicine, presented guidelines for systematically investigating and treating foal respiratory disease outbreaks. "While many outbreaks of respiratory disease in foals are infectious in nature, this is not always the case," she began.
AAEP Convention 2001: Reproduction Research February/2002
Presentations on reproduction have long been a hallmark of AAEP gatherings, and this year was no exception. The full-day reproduction session was split into two parts--the first was of a general nature, while the afternoon in-depth session involved a  discussion of techniques for the use of frozen semen. Sperm Dysfunction Dickson D.
AAEP Convention 2001: The Pruritic (Itchy) Horse February/2002
We've probably all had, or at least seen, a horse with an itching problem no one could quite figure out. In the roundtable discussion on pruritic (itchy) horses, veterinarians discussed just how to diagnose and manage these horses to keep them comfor  table and with an unblemished hide. There are many causes of persistent itching in horses, but according to Susan White, DVM, MS, Dipl.
AAEP Convention 2001: Surgical Techniques February/2002
Veterinarians and horse owners can share in a tremendous amount of knowledge from the AAEP Convention. While many of the topics on surgery were designed to help the practitioner learn new techniques and aren't applicable for the lay person, there are other topics that dealt with surgery and its uses that had a message for both veterinarian and client. Periosteal Stripping Useful? One of the more controversial presentations during a session on surgery was offered by Emma K.
Mother's Milk: Understanding Mare Lactation January/2002
Many think that lactation in the mare is not that important, especially compared to the dairy cow, from which milk is taken directly for human consumption. However, the importance of lactation in the mare must not be underestimated.
Wild Horse and Burro Management January/2002
"Be it enacted by the Senate and Horse of Representatives of the United States of America in Congress assembled, The Congress finds and declares that wild free-roaming horses and burros are living symbols of the historic and pioneer spirit of the West; that they contribute to the diversity of life forms within the Nation and enrich the lives of the American people; and that these horses and burros are fast disappearing from the American scene." These are the opening words of Public Law 92-195, The Wild Free-Roaming Horse and Burro Act of 1971, which established the protection, management, and control of wild, free-roaming horses and burros on public lands.
Shared Diseases January/2002
The term zoonosis (plural zoonoses) means a disease that can be transmitted from animals to humans. The name is derived from the Greek "zoi" or "zoe," meaning life, plus "nosos," meaning disease. An equine zoonosis is a disease that humans can contract from members of the equid family.
Frostbite: The Bite of Winter December/2001
Growing up a child of the South, I never expected to live far beyond Atlanta’s warm glow. However, fate dictated otherwise, and I have had to learn to cope with nothern winter weather. During my first winter in New York, I learned just how cold it could get.
White Line Disease in the Hoof December/2001
Look up “white line disease” in your equine veterinary book, and you might not find it. This name for the condition was first coined in 1990, and the disorder is also known as seedy toe, hoof or stall rot, hollow foot, yeast infection, Candida, wall thrush, and (incorrectly) onychomycosis. But when white line disease came to be recognized as a unique condition what it’s called is of no consequence if a serious case of the disease puts your horse out of commission.
Critter Control November/2001
Appreciating wildlife is fine, and horse people generally are wildlife lovers. However, when nature's creatures take up residence in your barns, sheds, or fields, they can bring disease and destruction. It's imperative to the health of humans, horses, and pets that you evict and prevent the return of these unwanted creatures to your horse's habitat.
EPM Treatment Research November/2001
More than 50 years ago, horses at The Jockey Club in San Paulo, Brazil, were suffering from a neurologic disease that caused muscle wasting. In 1964, that same disease was seen in North America. Robert MacKay, BVSc, PhD, Dipl.
Ovulation November/2001
There is a rhythm to nature. Season follows season, with each having a specific purpose to serve in the grand scheme of things. There is a time for planting, a time for growing, a time for harvesting, and a time for resting to prepare for the cycle to be repeated. It is much the same with reproduction in the horse.
Mating Mares Q&A November/2001
Readers ask questions of equine reproduction experts Earlier this year, The Horse made a request to its Horse Health E-Newsletter subscribers: What questions do you have for specialists about breeding your mares? Our e-mail boxes were flooded with replies. After narrowing questions down to several themes to be featured in this article, the questions were presented to two specialists in the field of equine theriogenology (the study of animal reproduction) and to one behavior specialist.
AAEP 1996 Convention Wrapup October/2001
A variety of topics, ranging from the sophisticated to the mundane, were discussed by presenters who offered their findings under the umbrella subject--The Foot. Opening the session was Tracy A.
Gait To Gate October/2001
The scene at a horse sale is familiar. The smell of coffee fills the air as early morning enthusiasts walk through the barns. A "first-time-off-the-farm" filly whinnies as her dam is trotted down the aisle for a group watching her stride. A man watches a strong chestnut mare extend at a trot around an arena.
Dubai Symposium 1996 October/2001
His Highness General Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum in his opening remarks at the Dubai International Equine Symposium summed up the purpose of the meeting in six words: For the good of the horse. He arranged for an unprecedented gathering of the world's experts to discuss the health and problems associated with soft tissues.
LSU Equine Veterinary Research: Young and Growing October/2001
The Thoroughbred racing and breeding industries in Louisiana were influential in funding and building the veterinary school at Louisiana State University in Baton Rouge, but the school serves all the state's horses and their owners. Although one of the newest schools in terms of number of classes graduated, LSU's School of Veterinary Medicine gets high marks in maintaining progress in research into equine problems during a downturn in the state's and nation's equine industry.
Caesarean Sections October/2001
When your favorite basketball team is leading by a point and the clock is ticking down to the final seconds with your team in possession, time seems to move at a snail's pace. Not so when your favorite mare is in labor and can't seem to deliver a foal.
What's on the Horizon for Parasite Control October/2001
Among the plethora of studies and research dedicated to improving equine health, the war against internal parasites has made some of the biggest strides. The most effective dewormer to result from the last 20 years of research is Ivermectin.
Why Do Horses Need Dental Care? October/2001
A horse's teeth begin to erupt in the first few days after birth, and they continue to grow throughout most of a horse's life. Therefore, dental problems can occur at any age. A "baby" tooth might not shed properly, resulting in an impacted permanent tooth.
Rotavirus Vaccine October/2001
While it seems that the wheels of progress spin slowly, progress does get made. Sometimes without fanfare or accolades. Generally with the hard, dedicated work of a few people. Oftentimes because of a simple question.
Persistent Uterine Infections October/2001
T he question that begs an answer concerning uterine infections, in the mind of Jim Briddle, DVM, Riverton, Wyo., isn't so much why they occur, but, rather, why they don't occur more frequently. "It has always been amazing to me," says the Kansas State University graduate and operator of Fremont County Veterinary Hospital, "that we don't get more uterine infections post coitus.
It's in the Blood October/2001
Blood tests aren't magic, but they do have broad capability that ranges all the way from helping determine pregnancy to diagnosing rare diseases. So helpful are blood tests in making diagnoses that in most equine clinics and hospitals, they are routine. It isn't that the blood test will necessarily pinpoint the malady from which the horse is suffering, but, when added to other circumstantial evidence, it makes a highly important contribution to the diagnosis.
Nothing Better Than Mother's Milk October/2001
There might be ongoing debate as to the value of a woman's colostrum versus commercial colostrum products, but for a foal, nothing is better than a mare's milk. Colostrum is specialized milk secreted during the first 24 hours following birth and is characterized by a high content of protein and antibodies.
Thermography: Hot Images and a Hot Topic October/2001
When preparing the equine athlete, the typical trainer anticipates long-term soundness, yet agonizes about injury. Horsemen know that as the horse performs to a higher standard, he will probably experience varying amounts of soreness and pain. Just as no one can predict how the equine athlete will perform, so no person can forecast the effects of stress on each horse's body.
Evaluating Placentas Can Pinpoint Potential Problems October/2001
Although common knowledge among veterinarians, few horse owners know that the condition of a mare's placenta following birth is a useful barometer for gauging the health of a newborn foal. If the placenta appears abnormal, the foal could be at risk for infection that could lead to death.
Uterine Cysts October/2001
The equine uterus, in a manner of speaking, could be compared to a house. When a house is snug and solid with no broken windows, holes in the roof, drafts, or plugged drains, it is a comfortable place in which to live. If, however, there are defects that compromise the structure, we lose the comfort factor and must repair it if we are to once again have an abode that will properly shelter us.
Late Gestation Mare Management October/2001
The final months of a mare's gestation period are anxious ones. As an owner during those final weeks, one is filled with anticipation now that the date of birth is approaching. At the same time, there are those disquieting concerns about potential complications and the worry as to whether you have done everything necessary during the pregnancy to ensure a live foal and an uneventful birth.
Probiotics October/2001
Horse management practices have drawn from many sources, but the link between an increasingly popular system for improving digestion in the horse and turn of the century Bulgarian peasants is perhaps one of the most exotic. Shortly before World War I, a Russian biologist set out to determine why certain Bulgarian and Russian people lived so long.
Ovuplant: Improving the Odds October/2001
If you're a breeder, frankly, it pays to be in the livestock business. Cattle, sheep, goats, and pigs all make life easy for those trying to produce young stock--they are all "facultative-induced ovulators," meaning that matings early in their estrous periods can accelerate their rate of ovulation. In practical terms, this means you can easily calculate the ovulation of a sow or ewe by the clock from the onset of estrus; which, for the breeder, is a huge advantage.
Mysterious Eye Inflammation Traced to Plant Burrs October/2001
Fall and winter sometimes bring unexplained eye problems in horses and cattle, with irritation and inflammation, or corneal ulcers. Veterinarians at the Virginia-Maryland Regional College of Veterinary Medicine, Cornell University, and New York State College of Veterinary Medicine have recently discovered the cause. Some of the horses examined at these college clinics over the past several years had microscopic barbed "slivers" embedded in the eye--bristles from the seed heads of the burdock plant.
Management of Twins: Have We a New Option? October/2001
As has been discussed in earlier issues of The Horse, twinning is highly undesirable in the mare. The advent of ultrasound has allowed earlier detection of multiple pregnancies from around Days 14 to 16 post-breeding, and the majority of clinicians are in agreement that twins are most effectively managed at this stage by manually crushing one of the vesicles. Certainly this author would agree that examination at this time should be routine, and if twins are found, a veterinarian should act immediately to reduce one of the pregnancies.
Piroplasmosis: The Olympic Question October/2001
(The following information was presented by Lee Brooks, DVM, the state veterinarian for Georgia, at the American Horse Council's Horse Health Committee meeting. Following this information is a summary from Georgia and the USDA giving background information on piroplasmosis and the waivers under which the horses will compete in the Olympics.
Hoof Wall Repair October/2001
Being a farrier is an ancient calling. From the time man domesticated the horse, removed it from its natural habitat, changed its diet, and put it to use in competitive endeavors on a variety of surfaces, hoof care has become a critical aspect of equine ownership. For 2,000 years or more, man has utilized horseshoes to protect the equine foot from undue wear and injury, but of even more importance has been regular trimming and proper nutrition.
Tendons and Ligaments: Dubai International Equine Symposium October/2001
The Dubai International Equine Symposium brought together researchers and practitioners from around the world to discuss soft tissue structures and injuries in the horse (The Horse of May, 1996, page 28). The basic anatomy and physiology of tendons and ligaments is complex.
The Rear Leg October/2001
This month we shall begin a discussion of the rear leg: conformation, function, problems. There is at least one good reason to start with the rear rather than the foreleg. It seems to be the case that as man selects certain animals to breed to other animals that changes occur more rapidly in the conformation of the rear legs.
A Breed Apart: Cooled and Frozen Semen October/2001
The shipping of cooled and frozen semen has opened the door to a wide variety of breeding opportunities for horse owners, providing, of course, that their breed organization permits artificial insemination (AI) with shipped semen. A mare in New York, for example, can be bred to a stallion which is standing in California and never leave her home farm or come into physical contact with the stallion.
Males as Athletes October/2001
In a crowd of geldings, his presence is conspicuous. The stallion that competes in sport adds extra energy to every step. His distinctive bearing attracts the eye, and he truly displays the look of eagles. Horsemen debate the pros and cons of the entire male as an equine athlete.
Alternative and Complementary Veterinary Medicine October/2001
Guidelines For Alternative And Complementary Veterinary Medicine (Approved by AVMA House of Delegates, 1996) Preamble Veterinary medicine, like all professions, is undergoing changes with increasing rapidity. Additional modalities of diagnosis and therapy are emerging in veterinary and human medicine.
The Farm's First-Aid Kit October/2001
Most horse owners equip their barns, stables, and trailers with an equine first-aid kit. However, most of these kits are either overstocked or inadequately maintained. Outdated drugs, contaminated ointments, and irritating medications can do more harm than good.
Horse Protection Act October/2001
The following information was provided by Tim Cordes, DVM, Senior Staff Veterinarian, USDA, Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service, Veterinary Services. The Horse Protection Act was put in place and is being modified in order to prevent the act of soring, whereby caustic chemicals, foreign materials, or mechanical devices are used on horses in order to enhance gait.
Encephalomyelitis October/2001
The initials are innocuous enough--EEE, WEE, VEE--but the diseases they stand for can be deadly to both equines and humans. They are, in order, Eastern Equine Encephalomyelitis (EEE), Western Equine Encephalomyelitis (WEE), and Venezuelan Equine Encephalomyelitis (VEE). In each case, the disease normally attacks the brain and central nervous system, and, with some frequency, is fatal.
Hemorrhage in the Broodmare October/2001
A mare is at the greatest risk of a deadly complication associated with foaling known as hemorrhage in the 24-48 hours after giving birth. However, it is important to note that hemorrhage can occur at any time during gestation, and that it should always be taken into consideration when a broodmare is exhibiting colic symptoms. It is speculated that with repeated pregnancies, the vasculature that supplies the uterus becomes sclerotic or less pliable with the enlarging and shrinking cycles.
Maternal Behavior October/2001
"She can go from sweetheart to witch in a split second," is often an apt description for a broodmare with foal at side, or, in some cases, a mare which is approaching parturition. Maternal behavior in mares can range all the way from being a totally lackadaisical new mother to turning savage when she perceives that her foal is threatened.
Rectal Examination of a Colicky Horse October/2001
 Horses with signs of colic can be grouped into one of three categories: horses which are resolved after medical management at the farm; horses which are resolved after more intensive medical management at a referral facility; and, horses which are resolved after performing emergency abdominal surgery. In a study of 1,929 equine ambulatory calls made during two years, 7.
The Magic of Disney October/2001
Walt Disney World in Florida is in the process of celebrating its 25th anniversary, and there hasn't been a year of the magic without horses. Walt Disney himself was an avid horseman, playing polo and envisioning a very horse-oriented park with horse-drawn parade floats and carriages throughout. There were more than 200 horses at the Tri-Circle D Ranch on Disney property in the beginning.
Foal Rejection October/2001
Your prized mare has just given birth to her first, long-awaited foal. The whole family and several of your friends have stayed awake to watch the event. The new filly foal appears healthy and strong as she quickly begins her attempts to stand.
Preparing for Foaling October/2001
You have spent months, or perhaps years, planning and deciding on the perfect mate for your mare. Now, after a few appointments with your veterinarian and a couple of trips to the breeding shed, your mare is happily in foal. In a few short months, it will be time for her to deliver.
Superovulation October/2001
In the continuing effort to increase the fertility of horses there comes a new weapon--superovulation. Inducing a mare to ovulate multiple oocytes can translate into producing more foals from selected females. Assisted reproductive technology can help solve the problem of how to increase the number of foals from a valuable mare, or how to obtain a single foal from a subfertile mare.
The Young Stallion October/2001
Envision this: In his first season, the young stallion fulfills his purpose as a breeding animal. He matures from a rambunctious colt into a skillful stud. So how do you make this dream a reality? As the handler, you want the horse to behave naturally in a controlled setting.
Progress in Lameness Therapy: Bluegrass Laminitis Symposium 1997 October/2001
Imagine a large ballroom in a downtown hotel. Fill it with long rows of tables and chairs. Now open the doors. Have about 800 or so farriers and veterinarians from all over the world--some not even speaking English--rush in and take their seats. Then within minutes, it's so quiet you can hear a pin drop.
Venereal Disease in Horses October/2001
Venereal diseases are those that can be sexually transmitted. "Vener" is the Latin term for sexual intercourse and, hence, the origin of the term "venereal." The outcome of sexually transmitted diseases in horses can vary depending on the gender of the animal exposed to infection and the causal agent.
AESM Convention October/2001
Researchers, veterinarians, and horse people from around the world gathered in San Antonio in April for the 16th meeting of the Association for Equine Sports Medicine (AESM). The program included three full days of presentations concerning the overall welfare and treatment of sport horses.
HYPP: Hyperkalemic Periodic Paralysis October/2001
They gave the muscular Quarter Horse colt an ambitious name: Impressive. He lived up to the name in such dramatic fashion that it became a household word in Quarter Horse circles - especially among breeders and exhibitors involved in showing halter horses. Impressive sons and daughters were big, bold, and beautiful with defined musculature.
Derby Decisions October/2001
Every competitive horse has normal wear and tear, just like human athletes. Horses on the road to the Kentucky Derby in Thoroughbred racing receive more media attention than probably any other equine athletes. So, when a spring season arrives, and when there is attrition in the upper ranks of 3-year-olds, it is seen and commented on by millions of people, many of whom don't know much about equine athletes.
Coming Attractions: The Newest Dewormers October/2001
The next generation of dewormers is nearly here. Fort Dodge Animal Health anticipates final FDA approval for Moxidectin this year, while Pfizer Animal Health Group might see Doramectin reach the market in mid-1998. Like Ivermectin, Doramectin and Moxidectin are part of the Avermectin family.
Focus on Discipline: Dressage October/2001
An elegant athlete, the dressage horse moves in perfect harmony with his rider. Following the artistic traditions of European horsemanship, the performer displays supple joints and natural balance, or expresses power and grace in the demanding steps of the Grand Prix. In the United States, dressage horses can show at five national levels set by the American Horse Shows Association, considered stepping stones to the international classes.
Physical Therapy October/2001
Physical therapy long has been a mainstay for human athletes. Competitors in sports ranging from football to gymnastics have utilized a variety of approaches to help maintain physical fitness and to assist in the recovery process when injury occurs to a joint, muscle, ligament, or tendon. Today, physical therapy also is a part of the racing and sport horse world, and it seems it is here to stay.
Botulism October/2001
With foaling season upon us, vaccination for botulism is one of many management considerations facing North American horse breeders. This disease can be deadly in foals, and in adult horses which are unprotected, and it can be tremendously expensive to treat and save affected horses. Botulism is caused by a neurotoxin produced by the anaerobic bacterium Clostridium botulinum, which was first identified in 1897 in Belgium during an outbreak of food poisoning traced to imperfectly smoked ham.
Breeding on Foal Heat October/2001
The mare has a long gestational period and to be a yearly producer she must be back in foal, on average, 25 days from giving birth. It is important to understand all the processes that take place in the period from parturition to the restoration of a state supporting the initiation and maintenance of another pregnancy (this period is often termed the puerperium). Among domestic species, the mare is unusual in that there is a return to a fertile estrus within two weeks of birth, and a new pregnancy can be established very early in the post-partum period.
Modality of Movement: Chiropractic October/2001
Editor's Note: This series on alternative and complementary veterinary medicine is meant to offer basic information on the history of the therapy, what the therapy is, and how it is being used in the equine industry. Information presented in this series is not intended to promote use of the therapy; simply to offer an objective primer of how it is being applied to horses.
EPM: Hope At Last October/2001
It seems to work! Because of research on new drug treatments for equine protozoal myeloencephalitis (EPM), horse owners might soon be able to kill the parasite that they now only can control effectively about 60% of the time. Preliminary research at the Gluck Equine Research Center in Kentucky by David Granstrom, DVM, MSc, PhD, and Thomas Tobin, MVB, MSc, PhD, MRCVS, Diplomate American Board of Toxicology, has shown that Diclazuril has turned around three severely affected horses with repeated histories of relapse on current treatments for EPM.
Anesthesia: Down, Not Out October/2001
Put a horse down. Euthanized. Humanely destroyed. The list goes on. It is how we in the business describe the unsavory, but sometimes necessary, task of killing a horse. Sometimes an animal becomes sick or crippled from a chronic problem, such as laminitis, and it is more humane to end the suffering; or a mare suffers complications from foaling and the only decision is how long until she dies.
Focus on Discipline: Hunters/Jumpers October/2001
Ears forward and eyes fixed, the horse concludes his gallop in front of the fence. He gathers himself and leaps gracefully into the air, clearing the obstacle with ease and landing on the other side of the obstacle to gallop on to the next challenge. In competition, the hunter and jumper repeat this action over a course of fences, the difficulty of which at the upper levels can almost exceed the limits of the human mind.
Chincoteague Ponies October/2001
Chincoteague is such a unique name and place that it is impossible to confuse it with anything or anywhere else. From children who have read Marguerite Henry's Misty of Chincoteague, to travel buffs who ended up on the island in search of a coastal getaway like no other, the experience and the images are singular. But while the annual July pony penning and auction are the most publicized of the Virginia island's events, the ponies are year-round inhabitants of Assateague, a 17-mile island that is actually part of two states.
Combined Immunodefiency in Arabians October/2001
A newborn Arabian foal is possibly one of the most beguiling creatures on Earth. Elegant of feature and blessed with beauty, he's full of promise for the future--and often descended of royal blood and worth many thousands of dollars. Imagine how crushing it is for a breeder to discover that a seemingly healthy foal has inexplicably died from what, for most young horses, would be a fairly routine and minor respiratory infection.
Small Talk: Miniature Horses October/2001
Miniature Horses are gaining in popularity, say devotees of the diminutive breed, but that growth has brought with it some problems in the realm of health and conformation. Mary Ann Eberth, operator of Little King Farm in Madison, Ind.
Puncture Wounds in the Foot October/2001
 Remember as a kid playing around an area of the barnyard that was cluttered with some junk? And, while walking on some old boards, a sharp pain shooting up your leg almost simultaneously with the perception of something sharp stabbing into the sole of your foot through your sneaker? The same thing can happen to your horse. Nails, fence staples, stiff pieces of wire, numerous unidentifiable pieces of metal, and even the occasional "lost" syringe needle all share the common bond of being able to wreak havoc on your horse's foot.
Bioabsorbable Screws October/2001
A unique type of bone screw made of a most unlikely material is making waves in equine fracture repair at the Equine Research Centre in Guelph, Ontario, Canada. The results indicate that the screws also could have important applications in human bone surgery.
Focus on Discipline: Endurance October/2001
Uphill, downhill, through brush, over rocks and deep sand, across streams--this equine athlete carries his rider to a destination. The trail horse travels along a sometimes none-too-defined path, replicating the centuries-old use of the horse as basic transportation. Today's trail horses provide pleasure and sport rather than a means of transport.
The Right Touch: Massage October/2001
Editor's Note: This series on therapeutic options is meant to offer basic information on the history of the therapy, what the therapy is, and how it is being used in the equine industry. Information presented in this series is not intended to promote use of the therapy; simply offer an objective primer of how it is being applied to horses.
Studies on Vitamin E October/2001
Researchers at Oregon State University and elsewhere are continuing to examine the role of vitamin E in horse health, including disease prevention and therapy. In particular, vitamin E deficiencies and/or supplementation could be important factors in equine degenerative myeloencephalopathy, equine motor neuron disease, and equine protozoal myeloencephalitis.
Teasing Mares October/2001
Teasing mares can be a time-consuming and boring procedure, but it is essential if one is to detect when a mare is in estrus. Unfortunately, all mares do not react to teasing in the same manner, so one approach doesn't suit all. There will be mares which show themselves to be in season at the mere sight or sound of an approaching stallion, while others will show subtle signs that only can be detected by an experienced handler or veterinarian.
Protecting the Wild Herds October/2001
Wild horses have captured the imagination of the American public for many years. Books have been written, movies have been made, and young and old have harbored fantasies of catching and taming a wild stallion which will become their own super horse. There are others who like to think that the wild horses running free and unfettered are a symbol of freedom from restrictions.
Restraint Techniques for Breeding October/2001
When a mare and a stallion meet, love might be in the air...but there's the potential for danger, too. Particularly when humans get in the middle of it all. In our efforts to orchestrate the best possible combinations of conformation, temperament, and talent, we long ago became involved in the process of equine matchmaking--and in doing so, we put ourselves on the front lines of the stormy process of breeding.
Failure of Passive Transfer in Horses October/2001
Infectious disease is a major cause of death in neonatal foals. The foal is born immunocompetent, meaning it probably is able to initiate an immune response to organisms to which it is exposed. However, a newborn foal lacks protective immunoglobulins at birth, and that lack of protection can allow organisms to overwhelm the foal before it can mount a suitable defense.
Freezing Semen October/2001
The technology that allows us to freeze a stallion's semen for future use has opened up a world of opportunities. Not only does it allow the DNA of a stallion to be available to mare owners around the globe, but it enables a stallion to stand at stud while he continues his performance career. It also means reduced transport costs and less stress for mares (and their foals-at-foot).
Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease October/2001
The official title for an all-too-common respiratory ailment in horses is chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). For the average horse owner, however, that rather cumbersome title has been reduced to a single word: heaves. Other people call it broken wind.
Medical Messengers--British Equine Veterinary Association October/2001
The annual meeting of the British Equine Veterinary Association provided a wealth of information on topics ranging from tendons and ligaments to muscle diseases, from disorders of the back to conformation. Sue Dyson, MA, VetMB, PhD, DEO, FRCVS, president of BEVA and a member of the Centre for Equine Studies at the Animal Health Trust in Newmarket, England, noted that, "The specialist and workshop sessions provide an excellent forum for broad discussion with participation from the audience as well as the speakers.
WEVA: On the Move October/2001
They met in Italy to exchange information about reproduction, sports medicine, infectious diseases, transportation, and surgery. The more than 300 delegates from 29 different countries, including Germany, Australia, New Zealand, Ireland, Denmark, the United Kingdom, and the United States, heard topics addressed in Italian and English. With so many different topics and time zones represented, it was not surprising that the common language was equine.
American Association Of Equine Practioners October/2001
Throughout this magazine, you find references to the AAEP (American Association of Equine Practitioners). Those of you who have been subscribers since The Horse came into being probably understand the relationship between the magazine and the AAEP. But for the thousands of new readers, I would like to tell you what the AAEP is, explain how our two organizations work together, and detail what that means to you as horse owners, and to the health and well-being of your horses.
Semen Analysis October/2001
A stallion produces untold billions of sperm during a lifetime, and in a normal ejaculate, he can send four billion of them on a race to fertilize a single egg. Only one sperm can succeed.
Advances In Equine Nutrition: KER conference 1998 October/2001
The nutrition conference for feed manufacturers presented by Kentucky Equine Research (KER) of Versailles, Ky., attracted more than 200 delegates involved in research and feed manufacturing from the United States, Europe, Australia, Brazil, Canada, and other countries around the world. Several world renowned speakers, plus graduate students from universities heavily involved in equine research, presented data from studies pertaining to nutrition and the well-being of horses.
Potomac Horse Fever Breakthrough October/2001
Potomac horse fever was an equine disease shrouded in mystery. Scientists knew what caused the illness--the bacterium Ehrlichia risticii--but its source in Nature could not be found. No one knew how horses became infected.
Rolex Stars Shine October/2001
 This year's first four-star Rolex Kentucky Three-Day Event has to be termed a success, even with the death of one of the equine competitors in the three-star division. The death of any horse is a tragedy, even more so when it is an athletic performer at the height of his career.
Shipping Regulations October/2001
Destination X or bust! Your bags are packed and you're ready to hit the road with your favorite horse. But, before gassing up the truck or loading onto an airplane for that journey, you need to consider what regulations concerning horse transport are in place at your point of destination, and whether that point is within the United States, or beyond. Having all paperwork and certifications documenting the health of your horse in order, and handy, will save you from delays and headaches.
Trauma-Free Trailering October/2001
Spring was a long time coming this year...but finally, the snows have receded (at least temporarily). The last of the melting snowdrifts unveiled your gardens, your pastures, and something rather less attractive--that old two-horse trailer of yours, sitting forlornly in a corner of your field. Chances are, it's been there since November, and now, as your thoughts turn to getting out to the shows or the trails with your horse, you figure it's probably time for an inspection of the winter damage.
Thermography: Diagnosis Tool for Horses October/2001
Scenario: Your event horse has just not been right. He seems to be getting a bit stiff to the right, and he's been grouchy when you are grooming him and getting him tacked up. No fever.
AAEP 1995 Convention Roundup October/2001
A total of 2,351 equine veterinarians--a record attendance--descended on Lexington for the 41st annual American Association of Equine Practitioners convention. Committee business dominated the day on Dec.
Prepurchase Exam October/2001
 The purchase examination of the horse has become an important part of the horse industry, and the equine practitioner plays an integral role in the procedure. Horses must be bought and sold for the industry to progress.
PreventiCare Program October/2001
Quietly, for nearly three years, horses and owners have been saved—horses from pain and death, and owners from expense and worry. While the start-up has been quiet, the impact is growing exponentially and can be seen in areas all across the country. The Pfizer Animal Health PreventiCare program and Colic Assistance Plan, in short, allow horse owners who work with their veterinarians to take good care of their horses up to $5,000 to pay for emergency colic surgery and aftercare.
Preview of the Olympic Equestrian Events for Sydney 2000 October/2001
As you would expect from the Ozzies, the Sydney International Three-Day Event proved to be a great competition and an excellent dress rehearsal for the Olympics next year. This CCI** was staged from Sept.
Countdown to Sydney October/2001
A world away from Atlanta, Australia lures riders and horses. In the four years between Olympic Games, riders have trained and competed their horses up through the levels. To enter the stadium in Sydney, they must prove they’re world class in one of the three Olympic disciplines: show-jumping, three-day eventing, or dressage.
Oxytocin and Maternal Recognition of Pregnancy October/2001
A research report from the laboratory at the Gluck Equine Research Center at the University of Kentucky noted that it is well-established that early conceptus loss (the embryo and its associated extra-embryonic membranes) is a major source of reproductive inefficiency in domestic animals. Early pregnancy in all mammals is characterized by a high fertilization rate followed by a high conceptus loss rate.
Rabies in Horses October/2001
Rabies, an old and clever virus, is making a resurgence in parts of the United States. While the number of rabies cases in animals might seem relatively small, and the number of cases in humans minuscule, the public health costs and implications are much larger. In 1994, the last year for which accurate counts are available, some 8,224 cases of animal rabies (42 in horses) were reported in the 48 contiguous states, Washington D.
Roaring October/2001
Old-time horsemen called it "roaring." The common scientific term is laryngeal hemiplegia. However you describe it, the condition involving larynx dysfunction can severely compromise a horse’s ability to breathe, especially during exercise. The problem often is first discovered in growing, tall male horses.
Rolex Kentucky Three-Day Event October/2001
The “big, friendly” cross-country course for the four star portion of the Rolex Kentucky Three-Day Event wasn’t considered as technical as the courses at Badminton or Burghley, the world’s other four-star competitions which are held in England; but it was a challenge. Eventually, the event took its toll in the withdrawal or retirement of 14 of the 32 entrants in the four-star section.
Hemp A Hit In Ontario October/2001
Proponents say that hemp can be used for everything  from making clothing, to rope, to paper…even automotive parts. Now, a Delaware, Ontario-based company called Hempline Inc. has added bedding for horses to that extensive list.
Solitary Confinement October/2001
There are few things sadder than a horse not in contact with other horses. A herd animal by nature, the horse always feels safest and most content when in company of others of his kind; isolation doesn’t come naturally to him. But in certain situations, isolation might be just what the doctor ordered—both to preserve his own health, and to protect the health of the equines around him.
Bluegrass Laminitis Symposium 1999 October/2001
The name of the conference might be misleading, because the 10th Annual Bluegrass Laminitis Symposium in Louisville, Ky., covered topics from how nutrition affects hooves to what stimulates hooves to grow. The theme of this year's symposium was Long Toe Low Heel.
Safe And Secure Fencing October/2001
As I turned into the driveway to my friend’s barn one afternoon, our veterinarian’s truck was just pulling out. I waved at her in passing, but I was thinking, "uh-oh." Sure enough, when I peeked into the barn, there stood her most recent patient, still half-tranquilized and looking decidedly dejected in his stall.
Modified Munchies: Genetically Altered Feeds October/2001
It's the end of another long day. The stalls have been mucked, the horses fed, the barn swept, and the lights turned out. Now you're finally able to relax on the couch, put your feet up, and watch some TV. Flipping channels, you land on CNN, where the news anchor is describing in solemn tones an unearthly scenario: Hundreds of protesters, some dressed as life-size cobs of corn, are screaming and waving placards which say "Ban the Frankenfoods!" and "Don't Mess with Mother Nature!" The demonstration, the newscast tells you, is meant to publicize widespread concerns over genetically modified foods.
Focus on Discipline: Cutting Horses October/2001
One on one, horse meets heifer. The cutting horse matches wits with a cow, and a champion maintains 100 percent control of the wily critter. Like reining, cutting is a sport that developed on the ranch. Cowhands valued the cutting horse as a mount that could separate individual animals from the herd.
Mosquito Wars October/2001
West Nile virus (WNV) is spreading, and horse owners are asking, "What can I do to protect my horses?" The good news is that a vaccine for horses has been developed and conditionally approved by the USDA. Experts say the WNV vaccine should work like other encephalitis vaccines, which are protective.
Breeding With Chilled and Frozen Semen September/2001
Artificial Insemination (AI) involves the introduction of sperm into the reproductive tract of the mare without natural mating. AI in the horse was first practiced long ago. Ancient Arabian texts describe how mares were successfully inseminated.
Embryo Transfer for Horses September/2001
One plus one plus one equals one. The stallion, dam, and surrogate dam probably never met, but all three contributed to produce a foal. Today's assisted breeding technologies can overcome the constraints of distance, competitive involvement, reproductive health, and the calendar. As a horse breeder, you can employ embryo transfer to produce better foals (in most breeds except Thoroughbreds).
Fly Protection Uncovered September/2001
Every season has its trials when it comes to horse-keeping. Although we might pine for sunny skies when we're battling spring mud, the turning of the seasons quickly reminds us of one of winter's little blessings -- no buzzing, biting, annoying flies! When those squadrons of pests descend on us from above, driving us and our horses to distraction (not to mention spreading filth and disease), it's pretty easy to start wishing for winter again. Fortunately, we're not defenseless.
Ovariectomy September/2001
Ovariectomy is a procedure that generally is performed to remove an abnormal ovary. Occasionally, an ovariectomy is performed in fillies or mares which have particularly bad behavior during their heat cycle in an effort to make them more manageable. Ovarian problems that might indicate an ovariectomy include tumors, hematomas, and, rarely, abscesses.
Stars Shine In Kentucky September/2001
 Rolex just keeps getting better. That sentiment was echoed from every sector of the eventing world, from the riders, to the veterinarians, to the spectators. "I truly believe in a couple of years it will rival the Kentucky Derby in significance in equestrian sports in this country," said internationally known veterinarian Kent Allen, who was a treating vet for the 2000 Rolex Kentucky Three-Day Event presented by Bayer.
Have Horses? We'll Travel! September/2001
Have horses? We'll travel! seems to be the motto of Jack Snyder, DVM, PhD, Dipl. ACVS, and Sharon Spier, DVM, PhD, Dipl. ACVIM, a husband-wife team who for the past dozen years have set up and spearheaded referral hospitals for some of the world's most elite equine competitions. Their well-worn luggage has stamps from exotic locals such as Korea, Italy, Cuba, and Argentina, and one from as close as Atlanta.
Common Barn Injuries September/2001
Two of the saddest words in the English language. After an accident, we tear ourselves apart thinking how we could have prevented it. If only I had seen..
Return to Nature With Pasture Breeding September/2001
In a world of artificial insemination and embryo transfer, simplicity can prevail. Registered stallions and mares can breed with minimal human intervention, through natural cover in the pasture. Pasture breeding continues as an accepted breeding method recognized by many breed registries.
West Nile--It's Only Just Begun September/2001
West Nile virus is beginning to peek out from the mysterious hiding places where it overwintered since an outbreak in late 1999. Five additional birds have been found dead with the virus-- four in New York, and one in New Jersey. Officials believed the virus was present in sentinel chicken flocks in Delaware, but the discovery was a false alarm.
Get It While It's Hot: Scintigraphy September/2001
It is not difficult for a practitioner to diagnose a complete displaced bone fracture in a horse. The animal normally will be lame, and there will be swelling. Radiographs will pinpoint the injury and its severity.
A World Apart--Olympic Games 2000 September/2001
Changes in diet, transportation, high-level competition...all are known to take their toll on performance horses. Combine these three and you have the making of a disaster, unless proper preparations are made to combat these stresses. For the Olympic Games in Sydney, nearly every competitor traveled thousands of miles by van and by air to reach the competition venue.
Equine Motor Neuron Disease September/2001
Through a series of clinical studies and observations the past 10 years, researchers at Cornell University discovered that a vitamin E deficiency is the cause of equine motor neuron disease (EMND). This is a rare neurodegenerative disorder of the somatic lower motor neurons, which are found in the spinal cord.
Working Moms September/2001
Back in the days when horses pulled the plows and harvesting machines across agricultural America, it was not uncommon to see a team of horses trudging over a field with a young foal trailing behind one of the mares. Many farmers could not afford the luxury of allowing a broodmare to take a four- or six-month break from work just because she had given birth.
Echinacea Proven Effective In Horses September/2001
The Equine Research Centre (ERC) in Guelph, Ontario, in the past year has undertaken an exhaustive series of studies on the safety and efficacy of herbal supplements for horses. Many of these studies are the first quantifiable, species-specific data on these products.
Are You My Mother?: Maternal Behavior September/2001
Anyone who has witnessed a foal's first few minutes in this world might agree that one of the most miraculous parts of the process is the way a mare greets and bonds with her newborn. With a deep sniff at the baby's nostrils, that distinctive deep "chuckling" nicker (answered by the foal's higher-pitched response), and some broad strokes of her tongue on the wet hide, a new mother seems to recognize the foal not only as something she needs to nurture, but as something uniquely hers--even if she has never given birth before.
EPM Management September/2001
The words equine protozoal myeloencephalitis first appeared in this publication more than five years ago, and while the scientific community has made great advances in unraveling certain aspects of this disease, other areas still beg for answers. In the past, increased awareness--and fear--of EPM led to it being "diagnosed" as the cause of everything from lameness to a change in behavior.
West Nile Firsthand September/2001
September 2, 2000, Clayton, Delaware The shrill ring of the phone announced a call from Tanja Hanyi, DVM, my partner in veterinary practice some years ago. "Hey! Guess what? I think I've got a West Nile case!" she said excitedly.
Translating Equine Body Language September/2001
Horses have two basic forms of communication--vocal and body language. The more sophisticated of the two by far is body language. With a mere look, a flick of the ears, or a turn of the head, horses can communicate to each other and to us, if we learn to understand their body language. Horses learn these communications skills from birth, but humans often misinterpret a horse's body language.
Opening the Airways August/2001
Only racehorses get exercise-induced pulmonary hemorrhage (EIPH), right? Aren't they the only ones working hard enough to rupture blood vessels in their lungs? The answer to this question is not so simple. Research has shown that EIPH occurs in 80-100% of racehorses, but little EIPH research has been done on more moderately exercising horses.
New Techniques In Laser Treatment July/2001
Just as laser surgery has become commonplace in human medicine, lasers are playing a larger part in equine surgery. A laser--which stands for Light Amplification by Stimulated Emission of Radiation--generates and concentrates light of different wavelengths. Focused light can make an incision, while a defocused beam will ablate (evaporate) tissue or, depending on the distance, function in place of a cautery (an agent used to burn, sear, or destroy tissue).
Dehydration Alert July/2001
When horses are working hard, especially in hot weather, they are particularly prone to dehydration and electrolyte imbalances. The official term for one symptom of these problems is a mouthful: synchronous diaphragmatic flutter (SDF). Horse owners and veterinarians who have dealt with this condition through the years generally identify it with a simpler, more direct term: thumps.
Equine Nutrition Education July/2001
A wide variety of equine nutritional topics was covered at the fourth annual Alltech Equine School April 25-28 in Lexington, Ky., sponsored by Alltech, a feed ingredient company in Nicholasville, Ky. Among the speakers was Harold Hintz, BS, PhD, Professor of Animal Sciences at Cornell University.
Farm Disinfection July/2001
Salmonella, Rhodococcus equi, strangles, rotavirus, and multiple other contagious disease outbreaks...these are the bane of horse owners, farm managers, and trainers. One strangles outbreak can wreck a show season, cause cancellations of breedings, sales, and racing dates, and tarnish the reputation of a farm.
Administering Foal Enemas June/2001
With a newborn foal, you observe a checklist of progressive behaviors: Regular breaths, ears up, standing, and nursing. Once the foal has survived these adjustments to life after birth, you're tempted to sigh with relief (and go back to bed!). But to thrive, the foal's digestive system must function in both ingestion and excretion.
Stepping Ahead: Bluegrass Laminitis Symposium 2001 June/2001
Laminitis is one of the most serious and difficult-to-treat diseases horses can get, and only by learning everything about this problem can we prevent and treat it successfully. Enter the 14th annual Bluegrass Laminitis Symposium held Jan.
Wrapping It Up June/2001
When is it appropriate to bandage a leg or wound? If it is appropriate, what is the best material to use? There is a growing variety of commercial bandaging material available to the horse owner and veterinarian; in one major tack store's catalogue there are 11 pages devoted entirely to bandaging material and "leg apparel." Much of what is used boils down to personal preference, but there are some basic rules when bandaging.
Getting A Lift--Slings for Horses June/2001
Your horse has fallen down a hill on a mountainous trail ride and there is no way to lead him to safety. Or perhaps your urban horse escaped and now is trapped in an abandoned swimming pool and you can't get him out. What do you do? There was a flood and the levee broke--now your poor horse is standing belly-deep in water with no chance of escape.
Lives In The Balance--Botulism June/2001
Botulism, an often-deadly disease in foals, can be prevented easily and inexpensively with proper management. Botulism is a familiar term to most of us as a disease that humans get from eating improperly preserved food. In horses, botulism causes extreme muscle weakness, and foals affected with the disease often are called “shaker foals” because their muscles tremble when they attempt to stand.
Book Reviews June/2001
Equine Expressions From The Kentucky Horse Park, by Robbee Huseth. Published in 1995 by Gibbs Smith, P.O. Box 667, Layton, Utah 84041; hardbound, 96 pages, equally color photos and text, $14.95.
Contagious Critters May/2001
Diseases from other animals pose a constant threat to our horses. Disease-causing agents, or pathogens, lurk in local wildlife, fly overhead in birds, and lay in the next field inside cows peacefully chewing their cuds. These disease agents--whether fungi, bacteria, or viruses--are just waiting for the opportunity to cross over into a horse.
Elective Cesarean Sections: Who Needs Them? May/2001
Many horse breeders and owners are familiar with the circumstances that necessitate an emergency cesarean section. Those circumstances involve the mare and/or unborn foal being in imminent danger due to birthing difficulties (also known as dystocia). Less commonly, though, a veterinarian might recommend an elective cesarean section (C-section) for a non-emergency situation.
The Educated Equestrian May/2001
How can you become a better, more informed rider, owner, breeder, manager, groom, conformation judge, health spotter, tack fitter, and just all-around horse person? By allowing yourself the time to learn. Many horse owners take lessons from professionals in order to become better at the riding disciplines they enjoy.
Shockwave: Waves of the Future May/2001
A new method of treating orthopedic injuries in horses is gaining interest among veterinarians and horse owners. Veterinarians around the world are using extracorporeal shock wave therapy (ESWT) and are encouraged by the results they are seeing with this technology. This article will summarize current research and applications of ESWT in human and veterinary medicine.
Poisonous Plants May/2001
At a training barn in Washington, two prized half-Arabian horses munched on wood chip bedding that had been delivered to the facility. Moments later, both were dead. Among the chips lay a branch of yew, a type of evergreen that can be fatal to horses.
Belly Bands: Girth Strap Tightness April/2001
Every time you saddle a horse, you tighten a girth. But how tight should you make that girth? Just enough to keep the saddle on? With space to slip a hand under the girth? As tight as it will go? Furthermore, how well does a horse breathe with this tight band strapped around his lungs? John Bowers, BVSc, MACVSc, and Ron F. Slocombe, BVSc, MS, PhD, Dipl.
Hair Loss in Horses April/2001
The gleam and shine in your horse's coat reflects his inner health, and puts a sparkle in your proud eye. Invariably, there will be nicks and scrapes to mar that perfection, but what about the times when portions of your horse's hair are missing? Hair loss, also known as alopecia, can be a frustrating management concern simply because the reasons for its occurrence are so many and so varied. Tracking down the reason for skin disorders often becomes an exercise in sleuthing.
Choke (Esophageal Obstruction) April/2001
The word choke for me conjures up images of someone hovering over a table, unable to talk or breathe because a piece of food has lodged in their trachea or windpipe--fortunately, the Heimlich maneuver usually rectifies the situation. Choke is also used to describe a condition in horses, although it's a bit of a misnomer.
Joint Savings April/2001
It's a classic situation. "Hey Doc, can you come and look at my new colt? I think the old mare stepped on him 'cause he's a bit gimpy today." When the foal is evaluated, you find a swollen joint or two, and the colt also has a slight fever. At this point, you've most likely got your diagnosis--septic arthritis.
Castration In The Horse April/2001
Becoming educated on the entire process of castrating horses can only help you make decisions that are best for your horse. Castration has been used to control masculine/aggressive behavior in the male horse for hundreds of years. In medieval times, kings rode stallions, and people of less stature often were described as riding geldings.
When Lightning Strikes April/2001
If you think lightning never strikes twice in the same place, think again. The USDA's recently retired Chief Meteorologist Albert Peterlin says, "Lightning is not just a random event natural killer, but more an opportunist taking advantage of a preferred pathway. Where lightning has struck a tree in the past, it will likely hit again.
Baby Teeth March/2001
Perhaps one of the most neglected aspects of equine health, until a problem manifests itself, is the monitoring and care of a young horse's baby teeth. After all, they are only temporary and are shed at various stages to make way for permanent teeth.
Ovarian Tumors March/2001
Whether you operate a breeding operation or have a mare as a riding or competition mount, there are certain problems that you might face just because your horse is female. One of those problems is the ovarian tumor.
Equine Narcolepsy March/2001
As Jennifer Johnson stood in the lineup awaiting the judge's decision with her recently acquired Quarter Horse mare Dobie Breeze, the last thing she expected was that her mount suddenly would collapse in a heap beneath her. But that's just what happened.
Can You Breed for Speed or Stamina? March/2001
For centuries, horsemen have tried to breed for speed and endurance and found that the greatest genetic potential can yield disappointment as easily as reward. Consider the indomitable Secretariat, who sired a string of mostly unremarkable racers, or the supremely talented John Henry, who sprang from an unheralded sire and dam.
Back To Work--The Equine Spine March/2001
Think of your fondest memory of a time spent with a horse. Chances are you were going for a ride, enjoying the scenery and the companionship that exists between horse and human. It is no wonder that with the time we endeavor to spend on our horses' backs, we spend thousands of dollars each year to pamper them--gel pads, foam pads, air pads, saddles with wide trees, narrow trees, and adjustable trees.
AI Training For Stallions February/2001
Given the choice, a stallion wouldn't choose to mate with man-made devices. His instincts drive him to breed a mare; yet he can learn to transfer his sexual focus to a "phantom" mare and an artificial vagina (AV). In order to train a stallion for successful semen collection, a handler uses the horse's natural behaviors to condition his responses, so the stallion will readily perform in the breeding shed and channel his sex drive to a non-mare recipient.
Built For The Long Haul (Trailers) February/2001
Glossy paint, swing-out saddle racks, loading lights--a new horse trailer can enchant you with options. But buying a trailer is like buying a horse. Your purchase examination goes beyond the chrome to evaluate individual parts. Just like a horse, a sound trailer requires sturdy construction and fluid movement.
At Home On The Range: Dude Horses February/2001
While many of our horses do some kind of work for a living, the work usually consists of a couple of hours a day, three to five days a week. Many of our horses are ridden far less than that, and we don't really think of them as "working" for their living as did horses of yesteryear. But there are horses out there which do put in a full day, whether pulling a plow, hauling around the family buggy, taking a police officer on his or her rounds, or carrying strangers for a ride.
Neonatal Isoerythrolysis--The Silent Stalker February/2001
Neonatal isoerythrolysis is a silent stalker of foals. At birth, the foal is normal. In some cases, the foal shows subtle signs as an internal enemy attacks and the disease progresses to a point of no return; in others, it takes only hours for the foal to go down. Neonatal isoerythrolysis (NI) debilitates the foal through the destruction of his red blood cells, leaving the foal weak, depressed, anemic, or worse.
Pony Power! January/2001
Tough. Powerful. Clever. The genuine pony displays the traits of centuries of pony progenitors, distinguishing himself from small horse breeds. In general, the pony is the same animal as the horse, yet he has many traits that make him unique. Those differences endear fanciers of all ages, with adults as the strongest supporters of pony breeds.
AAEP Convention Preview: Membership Forums Open Again January/2001
Last year, the AAEP membership forums were closed to all non-AAEP members. This year, these forums have returned to their format of previous years, which featured an open session for 90 minutes at the start of the forum followed by a session open only to AAEP members to conduct business. These forums were developed to promote discussion on topics of interest to members and the horse industry.
AAEP Convention Preview: Hands-On Learning January/2001
The AAEP offers "wet labs" for practitioners who want to take advantage of hands-on learning from experts in the field. This year, there are six different day-long labs offered (and two ultrasound labs, which are offered as two half-day sessions). All except Reproduction will be held at Del Mar Racetrack.
AAEP Convention Preview: Professional Development January/2001
Are you sometimes worried that your veterinarian will break down before your horse? Stress is a common problem in the lifestyle that goes along with treating animals while traveling long distances. Besides the stress of doing a good job and keeping up with the latest techniques and technologies, there are demands of the industry on personal and professional time.
AAEP Convention Topics Preview: Fighting Infection January/2001
The latest information on scores of topics is presented at the AAEP convention; we can't report on them all, but we do try to bring you a representative sampling. This year, many of the topics can be grouped into five categories: fighting infection, reproduction, lameness/ injury, medicine, and predicting performance.
AAEP Convention Topics Preview: Reproduction January/2001
The latest information on scores of topics is presented at the AAEP convention; we can't report on them all, but we do try to bring you a representative sampling. This year, many of the topics can be grouped into five categories: fighting infection, reproduction, lameness/ injury, medicine, and predicting performance.
AAEP Convention Topics Preview: Lameness/Injury January/2001
The latest information on scores of topics is presented at the AAEP convention; we can't report on them all, but we do try to bring you a representative sampling. This year, many of the topics can be grouped into five categories: fighting infection, reproduction, lameness/ injury, medicine, and predicting performance.
AAEP Convention Topics Preview: General Medicine January/2001
The latest information on scores of topics is presented at the AAEP convention; we can't report on them all, but we do try to bring you a representative sampling. This year, many of the topics can be grouped into five categories: fighting infection, reproduction, lameness/ injury, medicine, and predicting performance.
AAEP Convention Preview: Sunrise Sessions and Table Topics January/2001
The Sunrise Sessions (and lunchtime Table Topics) offer AAEP convention attendees a roundtable type of discussion format where they can choose their particular interests from a long list of popular topics. They can ask questions of session moderators experienced in that field, along with sharing their experiences with other interested veterinarians.
AAEP Convention Preview: State-of-the-Art Topic January/2001
Milne Lecture Features 3-D Anatomy Software The Frank J. Milne Lecture is named for AAEP past president and distinguished life member Frank J. Milne. Each year, the lecture focuses on subjects and techniques considered "state of the art" by the equine veterinary industry.
AAEP Convention Preview: Education for Horse Owners at the AAEP Convention January/2001
Horseman's Day The American Association of Equine Practitioners (AAEP), enthused by the response to last year's inaugural Horseman's Day, will host a program for horse owners again this year as part of the annual veterinary meeting in San Diego. The day of lectures will begin with registration at 8 a.
AAEP Convention Preview: Learning About Bits and Bitting January/2001
SPONSORED BY THE HORSE: YOUR GUIDE TO EQUINE HEALTH CARE Veterinarians at the AAEP sessions in San Diego who want to learn more about how bits function and how horses react to certain types of bit pressure would do well to attend the Nov. 26 session on "Bits and Bitting.
AAEP Convention Topics Preview: Predicting Performance January/2001
If only we could accurately predict a horse's future athletic performance, we'd know which horses on which to spend our fortunes. Many early factors in estimating a yearling's potential have been proven correct, others false, and there's many for which we just don't have all the facts. To help us gain more information on this subject, Scott Pierce, DVM, of Rood and Riddle Equine Hospital in Lexington, Ky.
Watching an International Affair--Rolex January/2001
The Rolex Kentucky Three-Day Event, presented by Bayer, lived up to its four-star international standing this year. That ranking is given to only four of the top-level events in the world, and is on par with the difficulty of the Olympics. This year, because livestock movement has been limited by the outbreak of foot and mouth disease in Europe, 39 Federation Equestre Internationale (FEI) events have been cancelled overseas.
Semen Evaluation January/2001
Breeding horses today often involves the use of artificial insemination (AI) with fresh, cooled, or frozen semen (except for Thoroughbreds). But whether you are using AI or live cover, the main goal is to get a viable sperm to fertilize a mature, healthy ovum (also known as an oocyte or egg). Therefore, it is important to evaluate and understand the sperm-producing capabilities of a stallion and understanding the quality of his semen.
Terrible or Tolerant? Training to Handle Veterinary Procedures December/2000
One of the most frustrating scenarios for horse owners and their veterinarians is the horse that is difficult to treat. We all have known such a horse, one which might start out fighting the annual Coggins blood sample and vaccinations. Or the one that dangerously refuses placement of the rectal thermometer.
Winter Stress November/2000
Winter weather can be responsible for stress that compromises a horse's health. The good news is that we, as caretakers, can alleviate that stress or even prevent it from occurring in the first place. Of course for some animals, such as show horses, one season is pretty much like another.
Beware The Bacteria: Salmonella November/2000
We tend to hear about Salmonella, a bacteria, in relation to lectures on kitchen hygiene; it's one of the main reasons why we're warned to wash our hands vigorously after handling raw chicken. But you might recall being forbidden to have a pet turtle as a kid because of the risk of it carrying Salmonella.
Pay Me Now or Pay Me Later November/2000
A television commercial ended with this rather succinct comment by a smiling service station owner, "You can pay me now, or you can pay me later." The thrust of the message was that if automobile owners didn't spend the money up front on maintenance and servicing, it would cost them a good deal later in the form of major repair work. It is a lot like that in the equine world.
Wind Soundness Exam Studies October/2000
Thoroughbred yearlings sold at public auction here and abroad often are subject to endoscopic examination of their upper respiratory tracts. Veterinarians and potential buyers are looking for evidence of deformities that could affect the ability of that young horse to breathe normally when it reaches adulthood as a trained athlete. Since some people buy weanlings to resell as yearlings, months-old foals also are being "scoped.
The Breaking Point--Catastrophic Injuries October/2000
Catastrophic injuries, involving the fracture of a bone, take a heavy toll on racehorses in training and in competition. Research through the years has given the veterinary surgeon additional tools and knowledge to deal with these life-threatening injuries, and the result has been a higher survival rate than was recorded in the past. To help make that point, let us tell the tale of two horses.
Supplements And Drugs October/2000
There is much confusion among horse owners about products. This stems from the avalanche of new products being marketed over-the-counter as nutraceuticals or nutritional supplements. The claims made about these products often are what classifies them either as a drug or a nutritional supplement, and determines whether the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has control over their sale.
Respiratory Allergies September/2000
Respiratory disease is second only to musculoskeletal problems as a cause of loss of performance in competition horses, according to some of the leading researchers around the world. In fact, N.
False Pregnancy August/2000
It is a frustrating condition. Even though a mare is not pregnant, her body tells her that she is, and all of her reproductive systems react accordingly. She does not come into heat, and her body begins preparations for housing and nourishing a fetus that doesn't exist.
MSPCA Prevention, And More August/2000
One goal of the Massachusetts Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (MSPCA) is to rescue, rehabilitate, and find homes for all animals in need. The group also is in the business of educating owners, and they specifically are working to train horse people around the country to handle emergency situations at competitive events, transport down horses (horses which can't get on their feet due to malnutrition, accident, or injury), correctly place down horses in slings to support their weight, and respond to natural disasters or other crisis situations that involve horses.
Headshaking in Horses August/2000
Your favorite horse is tacked up and ready for your daily ride. You mount up, and as soon as you begin warming up in your outdoor ring, he starts tossing his head and sneezing. The sneezing eventually stops, but every time you try to begin work, he tosses his head.
Equine Physical Therapy July/2000
A few months ago, a friend of mine came limping up the barn aisle on crutches. She explained sheepishly that she'd taken a tumble off her bicycle, badly spraining an ankle in the process. Her rehab regimen would entail staying off her horse, keeping the ankle in a brace, and making regular visits to a physical therapist for rigorous sessions designed to help the injured tissues heal while restoring the joint's strength and range of motion.
Prepurchase Exams July/2000
I f you buy a house, you have it inspected before closing. If you buy a used car, you take it to a service station to have it checked out. The same thing is available for horses. Veterinarians will come out to your barn, or the seller's barn, and examine the horse for you.
Adoption Organizations: Charity Begins With Homework July/2000
If you're in the equine industry, you can't help but know about the many groups that struggle daily to save horses and give them new lives in better homes. You see their ads in local horse magazines, get their pleas for contributions in the mail, and read their stories in national publications.
Mystery Solved: Guttural Pouches July/2000
What an amazing athletic machine is the horse. Few other animals of similar size and bulk manage to move with such efficiency, grace, and sheer speed. But despite our having worked side by side for centuries, there's still much we don't understand about a horse's inner workings.
Fescue Toxicosis And Treatment July/2000
When tall fescue first arrived in the United States during the 1940s, it was considered a wonder grass. It was easy to establish, it yielded a good amount of forage, it was tolerant of a wide range of management regimens, and it could handle a variety of climatic conditions as well as sustain heavy foot traffic. Farmers and ranchers embraced the new grass with great enthusiasm and, in a relatively short span of time, some 35 million acres of land in the United States was planted with tall fescue.
Lyme Disease July/2000
Lyme disease might not be the most prevalent equine disease you face with your horses, but it does exist, and it can seriously impact a horse's health. And that's not all.
New Directions In Deworming July/2000
For a long time, parasitologists recommended that horse owners utilize the same deworming program for all of their horses on a routine and regular basis. And why not? It was an efficient and easy method of parasite control.
Olympic Transport July/2000
How would you like to have a dozen or so concise, easy-to-understand pages put together as a how-to of keeping your horse healthier and what to do before, during, and after you load your horse in a trailer and ship him? Include some fill-in-the-blank charts telling you exactly what you should monitor on what day to make sure you don't miss any signs of illness after your horse travels. Then have some of the leading researchers and veterinarians from around the world tell you in plain English over a half-dozen or so pages the risk factors of which you should be aware.
Use and Abuse of Natural Products June/2000
Editor's Note: There are veterinary professionals who have welcomed alternative, holistic, and complementary therapies and modalities with open arms, adding these tools and treatments to their arsenal of care for equine patients. And there are professionals who take to task anyone who makes claims that they consider are unproven, unscientific, or inappropriate for horses.
Selecting an Alternative Practitioner June/2000
We give you an overview of the non-conventional treatments you're most likely to encounter in your horse's life, along with experts' viewpoints and resources for obtaining more information about chiropractic, acupuncture, herbal remedies, and other "complementary" therapies, in thehorse.
Common Problems and Their Signs: Part Two June/2000
In the April issue, thehorse.com/ViewArticle.aspx?ID=3115">the cover story began our study of common problems that can affect your horse. Those included the oral cavity, eyes, GI system, and respiratory system. The ability to recognize abnormalities depends on a person's knowledge of what is normal; the greater someone's knowledge of normal anatomy, physiology, behavior, and environment of a given animal, the more likely that person is to recognize subtle differences that might be the beginning of a disease process.
Short Cycling Mares May/2000
Nature has done a commendable job in developing the equine reproductive system, but it did not take into consideration man's special needs for the production of horses at certain times or under specific circumstances. The first man-made rule for some breeds involved birth dates.
Quarantine Facilities April/2000
Quarantine facilities...the mere name implies isolation and horses with infectious diseases for which there are no cures. In reality, quarantine facilities are the first line of defense to protect horses in the United States from such diseases. Horses in these facilities usually are healthy, and regulated quarantine limits and testing make sure that they stay that way until they are released into the general population.
Small Strongyles April/2000
There is increasing confusion over the parasites known as small strongyles. In the early years of parasite control, small strongyles were thought to be of little consequence to the health and well-being of the horse. After effectively controlling large strongyles and other common internal parasites in horses, researchers discovered that small strongyles cause much more damage than previously imagined; damage that can lead not only to poor performance, but to death in extreme cases.
Mare Madness April/2000
I hear it all the time: "My mare is impossible whenever she is in heat, and, in fact, she's in heat most of the time!" or "Every time I want to do something with my mare, she's in heat; in fact, she was in heat for every single show last year!" or "My mare has a split personality--most of the time she's a witch. Every couple weeks she's in season, and for those few days, she is the sweetest little angel," or "My mare gets PMS," or "Sometimes this mare just won't run her best, sometimes she'll pull up or stop.
Lymphangitis in Horses April/2000
Many horse owners are faced with what is unscientifically called a "fat leg" in their horses. You walk into your field or stall to catch your horse, and there he stands, lame, with one leg swollen from the stifle down to twice its normal size. There are many things that can cause this condition, and some of them are life-threatening.
Vaccination Update April/2000
Better vaccines, smarter protocols. These two areas are where efforts are being focused to provide improved and safer protection against infectious diseases. Experts, veterinarians, and horse owners are looking at a future where vaccines work better, where vaccines provide longer protection, and where vaccination programs are devised for the individual animal according to its circumstances and environment.
The Olympic Vet April/2000
Behind every great Olympic equestrian three-day event team of riders and horses is a ground crew that makes everything go as planned. The fine-tuning of each equine competitor's health specifically for the Sydney challenge began long before the 2000 Olympic short-list made the papers. A group of veterinarians and farriers have followed every move of the potential team candidates as they perform in such competitions as the four star Rolex Kentucky Three-Day Event and Badminton in England.
Foal Handling And Restraint March/2000
This scenario is all too familiar to veterinarians; it seems like I hear it at least once a year: "I decided today would be a good day to teach my foal how to lead. We had just weaned her a few days ago, so we led her out of the stall, and she just started pulling back on the lead rope.
Rotavirus in Foals March/2000
"But we've never had rotavirus in our foals." Read on and consider yourself lucky if your foals have never had rotavirus and you have breezed through the past foaling seasons sans diarrhea. With the increasing transportation of horses comes the increasing risk of any infectious disease occurring on your farm.
Equine Self Mutilation March/2000
It's a beautiful winter weekend, and finally you have a full morning to spend at the barn. You're happily grooming your horse when you notice a cluster of patches of wet hair on his side. Peculiar pattern to the wet hairs -- all are lying forward as if combed with a wet brush.
Getting A Second Opinion February/2000
Your horse comes up lame. You call your veterinarian and have him or her come out and examine the animal. Your practitioner prescribes a treatment protocol that is carried out. The horse improves somewhat, but a nagging lameness remains.
Total Parenteral Nutrition February/2000
Total parenteral nutrition (TPN) frequently is used to provide adequate nutrition intravenously in small animals and humans, and it is becoming more commonly used in horses and foals when feeding via the gastrointestinal tract is impractical, inadequate, ill-advised, or impossible. The term parenteral means administration by means other than orally.
Mares Which Fail To Show Estrus January/2000
During her heat cycle, a mare typically and obviously demonstrates estrus when in the presence of a stallion by flirtatious behavior and physical changes of her genitalia. However, many natural factors -- as well as disorders -- can affect the estrous cycle and the mare's ability to show heat.
Breeding the Older Mare December/1999
By the time a broodmare enters her late teens and early 20s, her reproductive ability begins to decline, and getting and keeping her pregnant become more problematic. The causes of reproductive difficulties in the older mare are numerous, but in many situations, good management, accurate diagnostics, and appropriate medical or surgical therapies can optimize the chances of producing healthy foals right up until the time there are essentially no more eggs in the basket.
Winter Shelter December/1999
On those long winter nights, when frigid winds chill to the bone and snow or sleet or cold rain makes outdoor activities decidedly miserable, most of us like nothing better than to curl up with a good book and a steaming-hot beverage. Every now and then, we pull aside the curtains and press our noses to the chilly windowpanes and feel doubly glad that we’re snug and safe inside and that our beloved horses are out in their field.
Transportation to Slaughter: Proposed Regulations December/1999
  United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) regulations governing the transportation of horses to slaughter facilities are, relatively speaking, nearing the implementation stage. The transportation of horses to slaughter issue long has been a focus of animal welfare groups, but it wasn't until 1996 that the U.
American Horse Council 1999 December/1999
Horse enthusiasts attending the American Horse Council (AHC) meeting were presented with heady figures concerning the economic impact of the U.S. equine industry. They also heard sobering reports involving the importation of horses with contagious equine metritis (CEM) and diminishing government funding for equine research.
COPD November/1999
Please take a deep breath. Excuse me, I said could you take a deep breath please? No, stop nuzzling at my backside. Could you please just take a deep breath? This might be a typical one-sided conversation a veterinarian would want to have with one of his or her equine patients (highlighting a slightly different meaning to the word patient) when attempting to evaluate the respiratory system. This is the point where veterinary medicine becomes an art in an effort to get the patients to "tell" you what they are feeling (and cooperate with a few basic diagnostic aids—like taking a deep breath) when you don't speak their language.
Emergency Care November/1999
There’s an old saying: If your horse can find a way to get in trouble, he will. So, if you own a horse long enough, chances are that some time you will face an emergency accident or injury. But will you know how to deal with the different types of injury situations you might encounter? Will you know how and when to perform immediate first aid procedures and, just as importantly, when not to? After all, making the wrong decision during this kind of crisis could result in unnecessary scarring, delayed healing, and even the death of your horse Is It An Emergency? It's hard to tell if you are dealing with a life-threatening situation that requires immediate emergency treatment.
Blanket Coverage November/1999
It took you a good 20 minutes to get dressed to go out and feed this morning. Over the long underwear, the turtleneck, and the thermal socks, you still had to add three more layers, and struggle into your snowmobile boots, the better to wade through the snowdrifts. You hurried through the process, worrying that the voice on the radio was calling for record low temperatures and that your critters would really be feeling the cold.
Your Horse's Limbs: Does Form Follow Function? October/1999
No hoof, no horse is a time-tested adage. So, too, is the advice -- given in countless books, articles, and videos -- to scrutinize a horse's conformation carefully before you buy. No doubt you've seen the photos and illustrations of "good" and "bad" conformation, and you've studied them carefully and tried to measure prospective mounts against the ideal.
Pan Am Games October/1999
Short of the Olympics, the Pan American Games are the biggest deal in equestrian sport in this hemisphere. Every four years, the best horses and riders in the sports of dressage, show jumping, and three-day eventing, from 42 nations in North, Central, and South America and the Caribbean, converge to challenge each other for medals and honor. For some, it's a valuable warm-up for the Olympic Games.
Reconditioning After Lay-Up September/1999
A small-animal orthopedic veterinarian once told me, "The athlete that heals slowly heals best." In other words, although some physical therapy might be recommended as the body heals, the body’s soft and hard tissues need to recover wholly from the damage they suffered before undergoing the extra stress of training and the physical demands of building up, bulking up, or speeding up. Asking too much of an out-of-condition body on the mend risks delayed recovery, possible setbacks, and sometimes permanent damage.
When Tack Hurts September/1999
Resistance to your cues, time off for injury, or even permanent damage—painful equipment impacts your horse’s performance. Just as a shoe must fit your foot, any type of strap or apparel needs to conform to the horse. When you apply any piece of saddlery to your horse, the item influences the animal in some way.
Cryptorchid Surgery September/1999
It’s time to have your young colt gelded, so you make an appointment with your veterinarian. He arrives on the designated day and examines the colt prior to the surgery, then informs you that your colt is a bilateral cryptorchid and will need more extensive surgery than just a simple castration--a bilateral cryptorchidectomy to be exact. Your first question is: What is a cryptorchid? A cryptorchid is a horse that does not have two testes palpable in their entirity below the external inguinal rings.
Antibiotics: Use And Abuse September/1999
Science, as well as all of mankind for that matter, is engaged in a relentless battle against bacteria. On the surface, it would seem that the human side has the advantage. Billions of dollars are available for research, and some of the best minds in the world are engaged in the fight against these tiny creatures that are visible only under a microscope.
Parasites And Pastures August/1999
Pastures and internal parasites. You can’t have one without the other. If you have  pastures, your horses will have internal parasites. These pesky little creatures that can erode a horse’s good health have been successful in thwarting the best efforts of science to destroy them completely. Parasites can be controlled, but as long as there are horses, there very likely will be parasites that will attack them.
Equitana 1999 August/1999
The third annual Equitana USA, held June 10-13 in Louisville, Ky., included an array of presentations, exhibits, clinics, and demonstrations, ranging from horse health to training methods to how to become a better rider. Following are some of the highlights from Equitana.
Thyroid Gland July/1999
A properly functioning thyroid gland is highly important to a horse’s good health. That much is  easy. From there it gets more difficult and complex. Knowing when the thyroid gland is in a state of dysfunction is not easy to determine.
Cool Aid: Beating the Heat With Working Horses July/1999
Anyone who has worked or played in high heat knows how exhausting it can be.  High, fluid-sapping desert heat can drain you in no time as you sweat away volumes of fluids and electrolytes. Then there’s the suppressive, sweaty, heat-and-humidity combination where the air is so heavy you practically swim through it.
Disaster Planning June/1999
“Disasters do not create new conditions; they simply exacerbate existing ones.” Wait a minute! Disasters don’t create new conditions? Horses trapped in flood waters, in fires, in wind-damaged barns are not new conditions? Horses wandering free in fenceless areas are the norm? Lacerations from flying debris. Evacuation orders.
Bone Formation With Exercise June/1999
Strong bones are essential if a horse is to perform successfully and still remain sound. Bones that are weakened by disease, injury, or inappropriate training regimens can result in catastrophic injury, as anyone involved with racing well knows. There are a number of elements involved in the production of strong bones.
Sarcoids And Melanomas June/1999
Tumor. Now there's a word guaranteed to strike fear into anyone's heart. Loosely defined, a tumor is an uncontrolled or incorrect growth of cells, which can invade normal tissue and disrupt functions. It can be benign (meaning it's slow-growing and doesn't tend to spread) or malignant (a fast-growing, aggressive tumor that easily metastasizes, or spreads to other tissues).
The Power of Hydrotherapy June/1999
There's something almost spiritual about the healing properties of water. Humans have used this life-giving liquid to encourage healing, in themselves and in their horses, since the dawn of time. Water cleanses (in fact, several of the world's religions have endowed it with symbolic purifying properties).
American Farrier's Association Convention May/1999
The American Farrier’s Association Convention held in Lexington, Ky., March 3-6, was planned with the professional farrier in mind. While the lion and the lamb vollied outdoors throughout the four-day event, inside the convention center farriers from all over the world escaped the vagaries of the weather and took advantage of the occasion to increase their educational opportunities through a number of lectures, demonstrations, hands-on experiences, observations, and by interacting and communicating with other farriers. In addition to the educational programs, there was a Media Learning Center, where tapes were made available on a regularly scheduled basis.
The Anatomy of the Ear May/1999
The ear is divided into three portions: the outer, the middle, and the inner ear. The outer ear is the visible portion that can be a strong indicator of the general mood of your horse, a tip-off as to where its attention is directed, and even a sentinel to a well-timed kick. The outer ear is also called the auricle or pinna—the word auricular often refers to the ear or structures associated with it.
Epiphysitis May/1999
 A discussion of epiphysitis is anything but simple, straightforward, or lacking in complexity. To begin with, there is confusion and debate over the term itself. Then there is the matter of whether it is part of the osteochondrosis syndrome.
There Was a Crooked Foal May/1999
A newborn foal, teetering on spidery legs, has a knock-kneed, awkward charm that can melt the hardest of hearts. But it's not so charming if, after a couple of weeks, his legs still look as if they're bending in all the wrong places. Some crookedness of the limbs is to be expected in most newborns, but generally it resolves of its own accord within a week or two.
Canadian Equine Research April/1999
The University of Guelph, located in Ontario, Canada, is home of the world renowned Ontario Veterinary College (OVC). The university is a research-intensive and student-oriented facility. Its written mission is to serve society and to enhance the quality of life through education with a global perspective.
Equine Fetal Sex Determination April/1999
Knowledge of a fetus’ sex enables the horse owner or breeder to manage several  different aspects of his or her horse business better. For example, the value of a foal frequently is influenced by its gender, depending on its sire or dam. Therefore, we can be more accurate in assessing the value of a pregnant mare by knowing the sex of her fetus.
Aortic Rupture April/1999
You’ve probably heard horror stories like these: A breeding stallion completes servicing a mare, slides off, goes down to the ground, gasps a few times, and dies. A 20-year-old pony being ridden by his young owner staggers sideways, falls to his knees, and dies moments later.
Testicular Descent April/1999
A discussion of cryptorchidism in young stallions is fraught with controversy. Everyone agrees on what constitutes cryptorchidism, but that sometimes is as far as agreement goes. We know that the condition involves the retention of one or both testicles in a stallion, either in the abdominal cavity or the inguinal canal.
Endometritis Classifications and Treatment April/1999
Many mares which cycle, but fail to conceive, have infections in their reproductive tracts. Hence, they are sometimes called "dirty" mares. The more scientific term for their problem is endometritis, which refers to the acute or chronic inflammatory process involving the endometrium (the inner lining of the uterus). Reduced fertility associated with endometritis—both acute and chronic—has been recognized for many years in broodmares.
Post-Foaling Problems In Mares March/1999
Birth of a foal in the spring is a wondrous event for many reasons. Foremost, the foal is usually the embodiment of hopes and dreams, whether it is born as one of many at a large commercial stable or if it is the only arrival for the year at a private farm. Second, it is a wondrous event from a medical point of view because it represents fruition of a process that began with the mare's being bred to a stallion and continued for 11 long months with numerous potential obstacles that could have terminated the pregnancy along the way.
Pasture Perfect March/1999
Lead your horse out to his turn-out paddock and let him loose on that lush spring turf. Chances are, he'll let you know how much he enjoys his liberty by tearing across the field, his tail flipped up over his back; he might even throw in a couple of exuberant bucks just to emphasize the point.
Spring Tune-Up March/1999
"Oh to be in England, now that April's there," wrote Robert Browning, the celebrated English poet. He was abroad when he penned those words, and in his loneliness he imagined an English countryside where on a spring morning..
EPM March/1999
Leading researchers in the quest for the solution to equine protozoal myeloencephalitis (EPM) lectured to a packed room at the North American Veterinary Conference. While the protocol didn't allow for debate among the speakers, debate underscored the sessions anyway.
Foals and Meconium Impaction February/1999
With foaling season rapidly approaching, many people are checking their foaling kits, and preparing for the big delivery. You've got your thermometer, stethoscope, umbilical tape, disinfectant to dip the umbilicus, and lots of towels. The foal is delivered and thankfully, no problems--he's up and nursing in no time.
Fundamentals Of Foaling February/1999
To understand some of the unusual aspects of birth in horses, it is helpful to consider how the species survived before domestication. The horse's defense against predators always has been flight. The strongest and fastest survived and passed on their genes related to speed and agility.
Teasing for Successful Breeding February/1999
A good teasing program is essential for insuring success in an equine breeding program. Without it, breeding can become a hit-and-miss proposition, despite the sophisticated tools that are available to veterinarians and breeding technicians.
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