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Articles ( * = TheHorse.com members only )Date Posted
Endurance Horse Study Reveals Common Complaints, Resolutions
A lot of things can happen over the many miles of an endurance event. California veterinarians recently tracked the incidence and resolution of equine medical issues encountered during endurance competition. C. Langdon Fielding, DVM, Dipl. ACVECC, of the Loomis Basin Equine Medical Center in California, and colleagues, looked at the records of ... Read full story
 11/15/2009
Colic Surgery: Preventing Postoperative Diarrhea
A diarrhea treatment might also be useful for preventing diarrhea in horses recovering from colic surgery, said researchers in a new study. "Diarrhea following colic surgery is common with certain conditions such as colonic volvulus (twisted gut) and sand impactions due to the added injury to the intestinal mucosa that occurs in these cases," ... Read full story
 11/13/2009
Guttural Pouch Anatomy, Problems Reviewed for World Equine Vets
Guttural pouches are more than just ill-defined air-filled vats located somewhere in the horse's head, said Julie Fjeldborg, DVM, PhD, an associate professor in the department of large animal sciences at the University of Copenhagen, Denmark, during the 11th Congress of the World Equine Veterinary Association, which was held Sept. 24-27, 2009, ... Read full story
 11/8/2009
U.K. Couple Sentenced in Pony Obesity Cruelty Case
A couple in the United Kingdom have become the first horse owners convicted of obesity-related animal cruelty under that country's Animal Welfare Act, said a report from Horse and Hound. The Act stipulates that owners must provide a suitable diet for their animals. Keith and Lynn Hall of Blackpool, England, were charged with animal cruelty ... Read full story
 11/5/2009
Remember Seasonal Variation in Cushing's Testing   *
Diagnosing equine Cushing's disease (pituitary pars intermedia dysfunction, or PPID) in horses or ponies not showing the "full blown" disease is complicated and frustrating. "To accurately diagnose PPID in the early stages of disease, monitor the progression of the condition, or response to treatment, we require accurate endocrine tests," said Jill ... Read full story
 10/22/2009
Condition Horses to Prevent Lameness  *
An athlete's body is trained to handle an amazing amount of work and stress. From runners to swimmers, all athletes train to handle the specific stress their sport requires. Unfortunately, it is still not uncommon for these athletes to injure themselves performing the very actions they trained for. This is also true of a horse's body. Many horses ... Read full story
 10/2/2009
Predicting Colic: Some Horse Breeds at Higher Risk  *
From reviewing statistical data from large populations of patients, researchers have noticed that certain breeds of horses are predisposed to certain types of colic. For example, Elysia Schaefer, DVM, an equine surgery resident at the University of Illinois Veterinary Teaching Hospital in Urbana said strangulating lipomas are common in older Arabians ... Read full story
 9/30/2009
Measuring Ponies: Laser Device Might Give More Accurate Height  *
A laser device for measuring horses and ponies might give more reliable and objective measurements than a traditional stick, researchers said. Ponies currently competing in Fédération Equestre Internationale (FEI) events must not measure more than 151 cm with shoes or 150 cm without shoes when measured at the event. Researchers working on a recent ... Read full story
 9/29/2009
Heparin Might Prevent Laminitis after Colic Surgery  *
Low molecular weight heparin (LMWH) is proving highly effective in preventing laminitis and reducing the severity of laminitis following colic surgery, according to Belgian researchers. Prior to the study period, more than 10% of colic surgery patients at the Equine Clinic of the University of Liège developed laminitic pain and lameness following ... Read full story
 9/27/2009
Diarrhea Prevention in Hospitalized Horses a Delicate Bacterial Balance   *
Diarrhea acquired while staying in a hospital, termed nosocomial diarrhea, is an unfortunate risk when hospitalizing a horse, but there are steps owners and veterinarians can take to help prevent disease. There are many reasons why horses get diarrhea while in the hospital, including infectious pathogens, diet changes, medication, exposure to sick ... Read full story
 8/20/2009
Horses' Sleep 'Stay Apparatus' Can Cause Limb to Lock  *
It might be nice to doze off while waiting in the checkout line at the grocery store, but unlike horses, humans cannot sleep standing up. Having evolved to flee in an instant, horses are equipped with a "stay apparatus" that allows them to remain upright for long periods of time. But this mechanism isn't foolproof and sometimes it causes more harm ... Read full story
 8/11/2009
Impaction Colic Review: Consistent Management Reduces Risk   *
A horse's risk of impaction might be elevated by decreased exercise, restricted water intake, administration of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medications, and poor dentition, said Amy E. Plummer, DVM, Dipl. ACVS, in a recent Veterinary Clinics of North America: Equine Practice review of intestinal impactions. It is important to remember that impactions ... Read full story
 7/28/2009
Equine Sinus Infection Treatment Balloons at WCVM  *
A few years ago, a magazine article describing a minimally-invasive treatment for people with chronic sinusitis caught the eye and imagination of Chris Bell, DVM. What if such a treatment could be adapted for use in horses? Last summer, the chance to test that theory came up for Bell when second-year veterinary student Dane Tatarniuk began working ... Read full story
 7/3/2009
Laminitis Risk Increased by Pasture Grass Sugars  *
Pasture-induced laminitis (sometimes referred to as founder) can be triggered when susceptible horses ingest high amounts of sugar or fructans that are naturally found in some pasture grasses. Susceptible horses include, but are not limited to, overweight or easy keeping horses, ponies, horses with metabolic syndrome, and horses that have foundered ... Read full story
 6/29/2009
Kester News Hour, AAEP 2008   *
Every year equine veterinarians flock to the Kester News Hour session at the American Association of Equine Practitioners (AAEP) convention for reports on research that are too brief or new to be included in the scientific program. For the past two years, the fast-paced news broadcast format has been anchored by three renowned equine experts: Scott ... Read full story
 6/10/2009
New TheHorse.com Equine Fact Sheets Available   *
TheHorse.com launched the first in a series of Fact Sheets on Jan. 13 to widespread acclaim. This week we present more Fact Sheets on topics our readers have indicated are important to them based on searched terms, reader views on that topic, surveys/polls, and personal communications. Following are the newest Fact Sheets now available on TheHorse.com: ... Read full story
 6/4/2009
Metformin a Therapy in Progress for Equine Insulin Resistance   *
Oregon State Researchers suggest that a low bioavailability and a rapid rate of elimination of the drug metformin might explain the "varied reports of clinical success" for improving insulin sensitivity in horses. Metformin is an oral antihyperglycemic drug used to treat type-2 diabetes mellitus in humans. It also appears to increase insulin sensitivity ... Read full story
 5/25/2009
Colic Questions? TheHorse.Com to Present Ask the Vet Live  *
Is there something you want to ask a veterinary specialist about colic? Attend Ask the Vet Live on TheHorse.com on Thursday, May 28, from 12 noon to 12:30 p.m. Ask the Vet Live: Colic is sponsored by Arenus. This FREE live Q&A session is open to anyone registered on TheHorse.com. This first-of-its-kind, live e-mail question and answer session ... Read full story
 5/20/2009
AAEP 2008: Sleep and Sleep Disorders in Horses  *
Unlike humans, adult horses average only about three to five hours of sleep per day, with sleep events occurring intermittently throughout the day and night, with most occurring at night. Lack of sleep or a sleep disorder has the potential to impact a horse's physical activity, attitude, and quality of life, according to Monica Aleman, MVZ, PhD, Dipl. ... Read full story
 3/10/2009
New Fact Sheets Available on TheHorse.com  *
TheHorse.com launched the first in a series of Fact Sheets on Jan. 13 to widespread acclaim. This week we present more Fact Sheets on topics that our readers have indicated are important to them based on searched terms, reader views on that topic, surveys/polls, and personal communications. Following are the newest Fact Sheets now available on TheHorse.com: ... Read full story
 2/2/2009
TheHorse.com Launches Editorial 'Fact Sheet' Series  *
Sometimes it is difficult to find that one short authoritative article that gives the basic information you're looking for on a specific equine topic. Something that gives you a foundation when you are looking for a starting point on which to build knowledge about a problem that has beset your horse. TheHorse.com has the answer: Fact Sheets. A series ... Read full story
 1/21/2009
Autumn Brings Challenges to Cushing's Diagnosis, Management   *
Autumn's chill does not just mean your horse will grow a longer coat. It can also mean he'll have higher natural levels of the hormone plasma adrenocorticotropin (ACTH), which, in conjunction with other factors, can lead to flare-ups of laminitis. Veterinarians recommend that owners test, monitor, and manage horses with metabolic problems carefully ... Read full story
 9/27/2008
The Science of Seasons Behind Laminitis, PPID   *
Are horses susceptible to meterological manipulation? Not exactly, but two research groups reported their findings of the impact of seasonal variations on horses: one on laminitic ponies and the other on diagnostic test results for pituitary gland dysfunction in adult horses. They presented these reports at the American College of Veterinary Internal ... Read full story
 7/20/2008
Avoiding Hazardous Horseplay  *
Swiss researchers have released new data on risk factors and prevention measures for some of the greatest dangers to horses: other horses. Anyone who has spent time on a farm with more than one horse could tell you that bites and kicks are some of the most common causes of accidents and injuries around the farm. "Grouping and regrouping without ... Read full story
 7/16/2008
Equine Colic Web site Launched by Liverpool Vets  *
Veterinary surgeons at the University of Liverpool have developed a Web site dedicated to explaining the causes, prevention and treatment of colic in order to provide more detailed information about the condition to veterinary surgeons and horse owners. The site will be launched June 16 at the British Equine Veterinary Association Symposium in Liverpool, ... Read full story
 6/17/2008
Brain Dysfunction in Cribbing Horses Gives Researchers Something to Chew On  *
In the first study of its kind, researchers from the United Kingdom have discovered that cribbing horses learn differently than horses that don't crib. Cribbing is a stereotypy in which a horse grasps an object between his incisor teeth and inhales air into the esophagus while emitting an audible grunting noise. It is the most common stereotypy among ... Read full story
 6/3/2008
What's Going on in There? Diagnostics for the Chronically Infertile Mare
When examining the chronically infertile mare, it's important to remember that the uterus is not an organ suspended in space--it must be viewed as one part in a complex system. Anything affecting the animal, no matter how remote, can have an effect on the reproductive system, according to Michelle LeBlanc, DVM, Dipl. ACT, a practitioner with Rood & ... Read full story
 5/8/2008
Desensitizing Your Horse to Fly Spray  *
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. --Equus Anonymous. Some horses really hate fly spray, be it the smell, the sound the sprayer makes, the sensation of solution on skin, or ... Read full story
 5/1/2008
Handling a Choking Horse  *
All animals can choke, including horses. When it happens, it should be considered a medical emergency. A horse chokes when its esophagus is obstructed, rather than the trachea, or windpipe. Although horses are still able to breathe in this situation, it is important to contact a veterinarian right away. "When horses choke, it is because something ... Read full story
 4/25/2008
All Stocked Up  *
It happened again: Your horse was fine for the entire weekend of riding, but when you got him ready for another weekend packed with activities, you discovered his hind limbs were swollen. You know it's not overuse; the boarding barn provides limited turnout, and you usually can't ride Monday through Friday, so your weekend warrior gets plenty of stall ... Read full story
 7/1/2007
Prepared for Battle?  *
Yes, it's a very tired joke. "Question: Where does a 1,000-pound gorilla sit? Answer: Wherever he wants." But that's the way it can be when trying to medicate an uncooperative horse. When the horse knows what's coming, he pulls back, clamps his mouth shut, raises his head, and dances around the stall. He sniffs suspiciously at food that hides an offending ... Read full story
 5/1/2004
The Creeping Crud   *
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. The dermis ... Read full story
 5/1/2004
Tail Rubbing  *
One of our mares rubs her butt on everything, all the time. It messes up the top of her tail, and she always has these big scratch marks across her butt. We can't seem to get her to stop it. We have dewormed her regularly and tried all sorts of different wormers. It seems like more of a nervous habit. Could she be rubbing herself like a stallion ... Read full story
 12/1/2003
Is Your Horse at Risk?   *
Like colds and the flu in humans, horses are at risk for contracting a number of common diseases such as mild respiratory ailments (colds) and flu, along with others that can have mild to devastating consequences. Fortunately, most of these diseases can be prevented or the symptoms reduced through preventive management. Here are the diseases you should ... Read full story
 12/1/2002
Is He Really Lame?  *
You want your horse to be sound and stay sound. But calling the vet out for a thorough workup every time your horse stumbles or acts stiff can get costly, and waste your veterinarian's valuable time--especially if those problems turn out to be training troubles in disguise. On the other hand, leaving a sore horse untreated might exacerbate the current ... Read full story
 8/1/2001
Naughty Or Natural?  *
I have a little problem with my horse. My uncle is a veterinarian. He knows the behavior happens in other horses, too. He suggested that I tell you about the problem and see if you have ever seen such a rude habit and if you know whether it can be fixed. This is the situation. My horse lives at a stable for old horses, not at our house. Our family ... Read full story
 6/1/2001
Hair Loss in Horses  *
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 ... Read full story
 4/1/2001
Separation Anxiety In Horses  *
We have two riding mares and an older gelding that are together, either in the pasture or up in the shed, almost all of the time. We use the two mares just for occasional weekend pleasure riding. The gelding is aged and has a stifle problem. He is just hanging out here eating grass. Here's the problem. Whenever we take our mares out of the pasture ... Read full story
 11/1/2000
Pay Me Now or Pay Me Later  *
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 ... Read full story
 11/1/2000
What Causes Poor Exercise Performance?  *
A huge amount of time, effort, and money often are invested in the preparation of horses for various athletic events, including Thoroughbred and Standardbred racing, three-day eventing, steeplechasing, dressage, hunter-jumper events, reining, cutting, and endurance racing, to mention but a few. Regardless of discipline, we expect that a well-trained ... Read full story
 9/1/2000
Overcoming Obstacles Your Horse Fears  *
I have been enjoying a new horse for a couple of years. He is just great about everything, except crossing railroad tracks. It's so frustrating. He just will not cross. I have tried getting off and leading him across, even bribing him with treats. Is there anything else I can do? The best and safest riding is in the river bottoms--across the tracks. ... Read full story
 8/1/2000
Common Problems and Their Signs: Part Two  *
In the April issue, 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 ... Read full story
 6/1/2000
Common Problems and Their Signs  *
The ability to recognize abnormalities depends greatly 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. There can be great differences ... Read full story
 4/1/2000
Tail Rubbing Problem
My horse is constantly rubbing his tail on anything he can find. It has become so bad that the hair at the base of his tail has either fallen out or become matted. Thankfully, I've finished my show season, but what is causing him to do this? He also seems to be losing weight. Are these two problems related? COURTESY E. T. LYONS, PHD Pinworms ... Read full story
 12/1/1998




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