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Articles ( * = TheHorse.com members only )Date Posted
Horse Sleep Disorders and Seizures Reviewed for Equine Vets
If you have ever witnessed a horse having a so-called "episodic event," you aren't likely to soon forget it, particularly if the event occurred while the horse was under saddle. Episodic events are defined here as unusual or unexpected, usually brief (spanning seconds to minutes) behavioral events. Between attacks, affected horses and ... Read full story
 11/2/2009
Study: Single EHV-1 Mutation Can Cause Lethal Neurologic Disease   *
A single mutation in the genome of equine herpesvirus-1 (EHV-1) was "necessary and sufficient" to cause neurologic disease in horses in a new study, reported Cornell University researchers. All strains of EHV-1 can cause respiratory disease and abortion, but only a subset of EHV-1 strains can cause neurologic disease said Nikolaus Osterrieder, DVM, ... Read full story
 9/30/2009
EHV-1 Neurologic Disease a Challenge for Researchers   *
Despite the remarkable advances in understanding neurologic disease in horses, including the identification of the single genetic mutation that gives rise to the neuropathogenic form of equine herpesvirus type-1 (EHV-1), virologists continue to experience frustrations when it comes to studying EHV-1 in the experimental setting. EHV-1 causes abortion, ... Read full story
 9/25/2009
Study: Neurologic Strain of Equine Herpesvirus-1 Increasing   *
The number of equine herpesvirus type-1 (EHV-1) infections caused by the neuropathogenic form of the virus has been steadily increasing over the past 51 years, report researchers from the University of Kentucky. Clinical observations suggest that neuropathogenic strains of EHV-1 (i.e., strains of EHV-1 with a single mutation in the gene that encodes ... Read full story
 9/23/2009
Traumatic Injury to the Equine Central Nervous System, ACVIM 2009  *
Whether it's a yearling that flipped and landed on his poll or an older horse that tumbled after simply taking a bad step, traumatic injury to the central nervous system is the most common cause of neurologic problems in horses. Yvette S. Nout, DVM, MS, PhD, Dipl. ACVECC, ACVIM, a researcher at the University of California, San Francisco, reviewed ... Read full story
 7/26/2009
Equine Herpesvirus Myeloencephalopathy Resources Available   *
A 74-page report on equine herpesvirus myeloencephalopathy (EHM), for which equine herpesvirus-1 (EHV-1) has been identified as a causative agent, was released by the USDA Animal and Plant Health Inspection Services, Centers for Epidemiology and Animal Health in July 2008. The report, "Equine Herpesvirus Myeloencephalopathy: Mitigation Experiences, ... Read full story
 7/6/2009
Consider Temporal Nerve Problem in Neurologic Horse Diagnosis   *
When presented with a horse demonstrating facial nerve paralysis and/or a head tilt, neurologists say veterinarians should consider temporohyoid osteoarthropathy, a disorder of the hyoid apparatus (voice box) and associated structures. Although it is not the most commonly diagnosed neurologic condition in horses, it's an important and treatable condition ... Read full story
 4/28/2009
AAEP 2008 Milne Lecture: Neurology is Not a Euphemism for Necropsy   *
When faced with a horse exhibiting neurologic disease, the importance of a thorough physical exam and diagnostic testing cannot be emphasized enough. Stephen Reed, DVM, Dipl. ACVIM, of Rood & Riddle Equine Hospital in Lexington, Ky., described selected equine neurologic diseases during his presentation of the prestigious Milne Lecture at the 2008 ... Read full story
 2/17/2009
Louisiana Filly Positive for Herpesvirus; Shipped to Kentucky  *
A barn at a New Orleans race course (Fair Grounds) was quarantined today, Dec. 26, because a 3-year-old filly tested positive for equineherpes-1 (EHV-1). It may take 10 days to clear other horses trained by Dallas Stewart, who trains the filly, and Neil Howard, said Dr. Tom David, the equine medical director of the Louisiana State Racing Commission. Stewart ... Read full story
 12/26/2008
EHV-1 Found on Delaware Horse Farm  *
Heather Hirst, DVM, MS, Delaware State Veterinarian, announced Dec. 8 that PCR test results from the University of Kentucky confirm that a Standardbred horse in Kent County has tested positive for equine herpesvirus-1 (EHV-1), a highly infectious viral disease of horses. The horse showed signs of illness on Dec. 3 and blood and nasal swab samples ... Read full story
 12/8/2008
Racehorse Ready to Run After Bout with Ataxia  *
Racehorse owners Suzanne VanderSalm and Ellen Bennett of Hickory Corners, Mich., weren't about to give up on Navigator, their Thoroughbred who became ataxic (incoordinated) suddenly as a yearling three years ago. VanderSalm had come home from Great Lakes Downs for the weekend to discover her bright yearling, which she had raised from a foal, wobbling ... Read full story
 10/2/2008
Paraplegic Foal Update: Lucky as a Long Yearling  *
Last year we brought you the unique story of Lucky, a Quarter Horse foal rendered paraplegic at about two weeks of age by an abscess pressing on his spinal cord. Veterinarians at North Carolina State University devised a special treatment for his abscess, and with the help of his devoted owners, he pulled through. Today at more than 17 months of age, ... Read full story
 8/22/2008
New EHV-4, Neurologic Disease Tests Introduced  *
IDEXX Reference Laboratories has introduced two new diagnostic products to help equine veterinarians diagnose equine respiratory disease and neurologic disease. The new tests include an equine herpesvirus type-4 (EHV-4) RealPCR Test and the Equine Neurologic Disease Panel. The IDEXX EHV-4 RealPCR Test is a real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR) ... Read full story
 7/24/2008
Neurology to be Focus of AAEP State-of-the-Art Lecture  *
Stephen M. Reed, DVM, Dipl. ACVIM, will deliver the Frank J. Milne State-of-the-Art Lecture on Dec. 8 during the American Association of Equine Practitioners' 54th Annual Convention in San Diego, Calif. Equine neurology is the focus of this year's lecture, which is sponsored by AAEP Educational Partner Platinum Performance in conjunction with the AAEP ... Read full story
 6/30/2008
Stiff Hocks and Knees
Q: My husband and I have raised several hundred horses over the last 40 years, but we have never seen an issue like the one affecting my 4-year-old Quarter Horse gelding. He does not like to bend his knees and hocks. When I ride him, he feels like he is walking on stilts. He does not like to go downhill and seems most comfortable at a slow lope. I ... Read full story
 4/1/2008
EPM Diagnosis  *
Could EPM be causing your horse's performance to be just a little off? Equine protozoal myeloencephalitis (EPM) continues to be an elusive disease to prevent, diagnose, and treat. In this special collection of three articles this month, we will delve into the often-contentious world of EPM research to share what practitioners and those studying the ... Read full story
 4/1/2008
Quarantine Lifted From West Virginia Track  *
A quarantine at Charles Town Races & Slots in West Virginia was lifted March 13 after officials determined a horse stabled there was not suffering from equine herpesvirus. Richard Moore, Charles Town general manager for racing, said a blood test on the 4-year-old filly was negative for the virus. Moore said the track's regular training schedule ... Read full story
 3/14/2008
West Virginia Track Barn Quarantined  *
A barn at Charles Town Races & Slots was placed under quarantine March 10 after a local veterinarian reported he was treating a 4-year-old filly for neurological signs of an unknown origin. Live racing and training at the West Virginia facility have been suspended through the evening of March 13 pending test results on the sick horse, the West ... Read full story
 3/12/2008
TheHorse.com Videos: News/Interviews
Interview with Dr. Duncan Peters on event horse safety (3:51 min) 4/24/08 Interview with Dr. Scott Morrison on identifying and treating thrush (4:19 min) 1/24/08 Read article French butcher's perspective on horsemeat (1:07 min) 1/14/08 Read article Interview on dentistry with Dr. Jack Easley (2:43 min) 1/10/08 Interview on the ... Read full story
 2/4/2008
BEVA 2007: Consider EHV-4 in Neurologic Herpes Cases  *
Sometimes everything appears to add up in an outbreak of what resembles equine herpesvirus-associated myeloencephalopathy, the dreaded neurologic condition generally caused by equine herpesvirus-1 (EHV-1) infection that causes ataxia or paralysis. Everything, that is, except for the test results. In these cases, consider the fact it might be another ... Read full story
 1/17/2008
Paraplegic Foal Update: Lucky at Home
VIDEO | About a month ago, The Horse brought you the story of Lucky, a five-month-old Quarter Horse foal who was rendered paraplegic by a spinal cord abscess at two weeks of age. Since his unique treatment at North Carolina State University, he has been slowly recovering mobility, and a few days ago we checked out his progress at home. During our ... Read full story
 9/30/2007
Saving a Paraplegic Foal
VIDEO | What do you do when a healthy foal suddenly becomes paraplegic? For many, the answer would be simple--euthanasia, especially if he had an uncertain prognosis. But this attractive bay Quarter Horse colt, incongruously named Lucky, continues to survive and improve in the care of his devoted owners and veterinarians at North Carolina State University ... Read full story
 9/4/2007
EPM Today: Testing and Treatments  *
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 ... Read full story
 6/1/2007
Farewell to Olympic Eventer 3 Magic Beans  *
Nina Fout's 2000 Olympic partner, 3 Magic Beans, was euthanatized on March 15 due to a degenerative spinal cord disease. He was 17. "Beans" came to Fout "with a zero-dollar earnings record" from the racing string of her father, the late Paul Fout. If the 1990 son of Hidden Capitol-Express Card (the last homebred of Tennessee breeder Margaret Henley) ... Read full story
 3/24/2007
Equine Neurologic Pathology   *
This is an excerpt from Equine Disease Quarterly, funded by underwriters at Lloyd's, London, brokers, and their Kentucky agents. Horses are afflicted with a number of central nervous system diseases. Diagnosis of these conditions can be challenging both in the live horse and in horses that died or were euthanized due to the neurologic disease. In ... Read full story
 12/27/2006
Neurologic Case Shows Difficulty of Rule-Outs   *
A 24-year-old pleasure mare in Brunswick, Ga., has been diagnosed with concurrent infections of equine protozoal myeloencephalitis (EPM) and equine herpesvirus type-1 (EHV-1). Both can cause neurologic disease. This case highlights the complexity of pinpointing neurologic illnesses, which can range from Eastern equine encephalitis to West Nile virus. ... Read full story
 4/1/2006
Remaining EHV-1 Quarantines Lifted at Pimlico and Bowie  *
The Maryland Department of Agriculture (MDA) has lifted hold orders on the detention barn at Pimlico Race Course in Baltimore and a barn at the Bowie Training Center in Bowie after the final four horses in those barns tested negative for equine herpesvirus-1 (EHV-1) on nested polymerase chain reaction tests. "These negative tests bring this EHV-1 outbreak ... Read full story
 3/8/2006
Hold Order Lifted on Kent County Farm  *
Seventeen horses on a Kent County, Md., farm tested negative for equine herpesvirus-1 (EHV-1) on March 3, resulting in the March 4 removal of a Maryland Department of Agriculture (MDA) hold order that had prevented equine transport to and from the facility. The hold order was enacted on Jan. 26, when the first of two horses at the farm were euthanatized ... Read full story
 3/6/2006
Maryland Veterinarians Must Report Neurologic Cases  *
The Maryland Department of Agriculture (MDA) has added equine neurologic syndrome to its list of infectious livestock or poultry diseases that must be reported to MDA officials. Under Maryland law (Agriculture Article, Section 3-105 Annotated Code of Maryland), veterinarians are required to report immediately to the secretary of agriculture (in practice, ... Read full story
 3/6/2006
Hold Order Lifted at Laurel Park  *
(edited press release) The Maryland Department of Agriculture (MDA) released its hold order on Laurel Park's Barn 9 on Friday, March 3, which means 34 horses that tested negative for equine herpesvirus-1 (EHV-1) at the Laurel, Md., facility were permitted to return to their normal training and racing activities. Two additional horses in the barn that ... Read full story
 3/6/2006
Maryland EHV-1 Outbreaks Winding Down  *
Veterinarians suspect the recent deadly outbreaks of equine herpesvirus-1 (EHV-1) in Maryland have subsided. The Maryland Department of Agriculture (MDA) reported EHV-1 outbreaks at two Maryland tracks, a race training facility, and a private sport horse boarding farm in Kent County. The last new neurologic sign of the disease in the state was detected ... Read full story
 3/2/2006
Equine Herpesvirus Test Pending on Philly Park Horse  *
Officials at Philadelphia Park are awaiting test results from a horse that was euthanatized Feb. 23 to determine whether it had equine herpesvirus-1 (EHV-1). Kari Oakie, a 3-year-old Thoroughbred filly trained by Armand Correnti, fell during training hours at Philly Park and was euthanatized with a suspected spinal cord injury. Before she was euthanatized, ... Read full story
 3/2/2006
Georgia Neurologic Case Highlights Difficulty of Rule-Outs  *
A 24-year-old pleasure mare in Brunswick, Ga., was recently diagnosed with concurrent infections of equine protozoal myeloencephalitis (EPM) and equine herpesvirus type-1 (EHV-1), both of which can cause clinical signs of neurologic disease. The mare's treating veterinarians have said the neurologic deficits the mare has shown are likely caused by ... Read full story
 2/23/2006
Suspected Neurologic Herpes Case in Wisconsin  *
The University of Wisconsin-Madison School of Veterinary Medicine has very strong evidence that a horse treated and euthanatized at the university had the neurologic form of equine herpesvirus type 1 (EHV-1), according to a Feb. 14 memo that Benjamin J. Darien, DVM, associate professor in the veterinary school, sent to members of the Wisconsin Veterinary ... Read full story
 2/20/2006
AAEP Convention 2005: Infectious Neurologic Disease  *
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 ... Read full story
 2/17/2006
Michigan Veterinarian Describes Neurologic Herpes Case  *
A 3-year-old Standardbred mare suffering from signs of neurologic disease tested positive for equine herpesvirus type-1 (EHV-1) and was euthanatized at the Allegan County Fairgrounds in Allegan, Mich., on Jan. 18. The horse had been shipped in from Canada to train at the harness racing training facility. Two of the fairgrounds' barns were quarantined ... Read full story
 2/8/2006
Pimlico Quarantine Lifted   *
The Maryland Jockey Club (MJC) lifted its self-imposed quarantine on Pimlico Race Course this morning (Feb. 8), allowing horses from the Baltimore track to compete at Laurel Park in Laurel, Md., for the first time since Jan. 21. Twelve Pimlico-based horses ran on today's card at Laurel,and five of the nine races featured Pimlico horses. The MJC quarantined ... Read full story
 2/8/2006
Second Neurologic Horse Euthanatized on Maryland Farm   *
A competitive event horse that began showing neurologic signs of equine herpesvirus type 1 (EHV-1) last Thursday (Feb. 2) was euthanatized on Sunday (Feb. 5) after a rapid decline in health. The mare is the second horse to be euthanatized on the private Kent County farm that received a horse from Pimlico Race Course on Jan. 10 before track officials ... Read full story
 2/8/2006
Maryland Trainers Holding Their Breath  *
For more than a week, Maryland Jockey Club (MJC) chief operating officer Lou Raffetto said he could "see the light at the end of the tunnel" regarding the ongoing battle with equine herpesvirus. There was some light Feb. 3, when Laurel Park began accepting horses from previously quarantined Pimlico Race Course, and Feb. 5, when a "hold order" was ... Read full story
 2/7/2006
Veterinarian Suggests Owners Implement EHV-1 Preventive Measures  *
In light of the current equine herpesvirus type-1 neurologic outbreaks, Rob Holland, DVM, senior veterinarian at Pfizer Animal Health, has suggested that owners take steps to prevent EHV-1 infection in their horses. "Other than supportive therapies to reduce symptoms such as fever, there is no effective treatment once a horse has been infected with ... Read full story
 2/1/2006
Hold Order at Additional Maryland Training Center   *
The Maryland Department of Agriculture placed an initial "Investigational Animal Hold Order" on Barn 1 at the Bowie Training Center in Bowie, Md., this afternoon (Feb. 1) after a horse showed clinical signs of neurologic equine herpesvirus type-1 (EHV-1). The horse, trained by Chris Grove, began showing neurologic signs late last week. After discussions ... Read full story
 2/1/2006
Second Laurel Park Horse Tests Positive For Equine Herpes  *
The Maryland Department of Agriculture confirmed today that a second horse, Hey Ralphy, a filly trained by Rodney Jenkins at Laurel Park, was infected with equine herpesvirus type-1 (EHV-1). The 3-year-old was euthanatized on Jan. 26 with a suspected pelvic injury. A hold order has been placed on Barn 9 at the central Maryland track. Jenkins has elected ... Read full story
 1/31/2006
Pimlico Considers Lifting Quarantine Feb. 4; Stakes Could Be Rescheduled   *
Maryland Jockey Club (MJC) officials are hopeful they will be able to lift the equine herpesvirus quarantine at Pimlico Race Course in Baltimore on Feb. 4, MJC chief operating officer Lou Raffetto said at a news conference at Laurel Park on Jan. 27. Raffetto placed the quarantine on the track Jan. 21. In addition to lifting the quarantine, Raffetto ... Read full story
 1/30/2006
Herpesvirus Detected at Laurel Park   *
Equine herpesvirus has been confirmed in a horse stabled at Laurel Park in Laurel, Md., says an Associated Press story on www.bloodhorse.com (http://news.bloodhorse.com/viewstory.asp?id=31893). The disease has led to the euthanasia of two horses at Pimlico Race Course in Baltimore, Md., and a full quarantine of that track, which is about 25 miles ... Read full story
 1/25/2006
Restrictions Lifted on Most Lead Ponies, Outrider Horses at Turfway Park  *
All but one of the workhorses quarantined at Turfway Park have been cleared to return to the track on Tuesday (Jan. 24) after testing negative for equine herpesvirus. Robert Stout, DVM, Kentucky state veterinarian, rescinded the restrictions on all but one of the 32 lead ponies and outrider horses. Testing found that the animals showed no signs of ... Read full story
 1/24/2006
Herpesvirus Causes Maryland Jockey Club Quarantine of Pimlico Race Course  *
The Maryland Jockey Club (MJC) placed a quarantine on Pimlico Race Course effective after racing ended on Jan. 21 until further notice because of the neurologic equine herpesvirus type-1 (EHV-1) situation at the Baltimore track. Since the new year, 11 horses have shown clinical signs of the virus, causing the Maryland Department of Agriculture to ... Read full story
 1/23/2006
Trainers Worry Pimlico Quarantine is Too Late  *
The Maryland Jockey Club (MJC) has stepped up its fight against the equine herpesvirus type-1 (EHV-1) with a quarantine of the entire Pimlico Race Course stable area, but some trainers worry the move may have come too late. "I don't know how much relief I feel," said Laurel-based trainer Dale Capuano. "My thought is, 'It's about time.'" EHV-1 first ... Read full story
 1/23/2006
EHV Spreads in Northeast; Penn National Horse Tests Positive  *
In the wake of a horse being diagnosed with equine herpesvirus type-1 (EHV-1) at Penn National Race Course on Friday (Jan. 20), Philadelphia Park has banned shippers from that oval, effective immediately. Shippers from Maryland, including the Bowie Training Center, are also prohibited. "We don't have any problems right now, and we'd like to keep ... Read full story
 1/21/2006
Second Horse Euthanatized at Pimlico Suspected of Having EHV-1  *
Officials at Pimlico Racecourse announced Friday (Jan. 13) that a second horse euthanatized at the Maryland track is suspected to have had equine herpesvirus-1. As a result, the Maryland Department of Agriculture has placed a "hold order" on Barn 6, where the horse was stabled. According to a statement from the Maryland Jockey Club, the horse was ... Read full story
 1/14/2006
Cornell Researcher Answers More Questions on Herpesvirus  *
The Horse continues to discuss equine herpesvirus type-1 (EHV-1) with scientists who have been researching the disease. Klaus Osterrieder, DVM, DVM Habilitation (German equivalent to a PhD), is associate professor of virology in the College of Veterinary Medicine at Cornell University in Ithaca, N.Y. He shared his views on the current situation with ... Read full story
 1/12/2006
Other States Act to Combat Spread of Virus  *
As surrounding states took steps to protect their racetracks from Maryland horses that could be carriers of the equine herpesvirus, Maryland Jockey Club racing secretary Georganne Hale was looking for positives anywhere she could find them. "This thing has everyone scared," Hale said Jan. 10 after a morning meeting at which state officials confirmed ... Read full story
 1/11/2006
Neurologic Equine Herpesvirus Q&A  *
It isn't just our imagination--we have been hearing about more neurologic equine herpesvirus outbreaks in the past several years than we were aware of previously. The current outbreaks in Kentucky and Maryland bring the disease back to the forefront, and there are many questions that horse owners, trainers, and even veterinarians have about the illness ... Read full story
 1/11/2006
Turfway Heightens Precautions After Filly Tests Positive  *
Turfway Park heightened precautionary measures Dec. 23 after a 3-year-old filly was diagnosed with equine herpesvirus, a contagious disease with respiratory and neurological signs. The filly, trained by Chuck Simon, was shipped Dec. 21 to Hagyard-Davidson-McGee in Lexington, where she was diagnosed with equine herpesvirus and subsequently euthanatized, ... Read full story
 12/24/2005
Turfway Barn Quarantined Pending Test Results  *
A barn at Turfway Park in Northern Kentucky was placed under quarantine Dec. 21 after a horse showed signs of suspected equine herpesvirus, a contagious upper respiratory and neurological disease. Test results were expected Dec. 23, at which time a decision will be made on whether to extend or end the quarantine. Horses in Barn 26 are not permitted ... Read full story
 12/22/2005
"Whisper Syndrome" Update  *
A treating veterinarian in southwestern Virginia still isn't sure what made three of his clients' horses sick this spring while generating widespread concern on an Internet message board. Titer results searching for a definitive diagnosis or rule-out on the bacterial disease listeriosis came back inconclusive in late May. But Thach Winslow, DVM, of ... Read full story
 5/31/2005
Maryland Horses Succumb to Neurologic EHV-1   *
Three horses were euthanatized due to severe neurologic signs caused by equine herpesvirus type-1 at the Columbia Horse Center in Columbia, Md., the week of March 21, according to the animals' attending vet. Two more horses at the facility developed signs of disease, but are recuperating well, he added. A quarantine and strict disinfection protocols ... Read full story
 5/1/2005
Twelve Years of EPM Research: Are We Any Smarter?  *
"I think every time we find out something about EPM (equine protozoal myeloencephalitis), it turns up more questions," said Bill Saville, DVM, PhD, Dipl. ACVIM, an associate professor in the Department of Veterinary Preventive Medicine at The Ohio State University's College of Veterinary Medicine. On March 22 at the University of Kentucky's Gluck Center ... Read full story
 4/25/2005
One Additional Horse Shows Neurologic Signs in Maryland EHV-1 Situation  *
(edited press release) During the week of April 11, one additional horse displayed acute neurologic signs consistent with the equine herpesvirus type-1 (EHV-1) disease situation at the Columbia Horse Center in Columbia, Md. The horse, which was euthanatized, was located in the same barn as the others. Diagnostic tests are underway to confirm cause ... Read full story
 4/18/2005
Equine Herpesvirus Type-1 Confirmed in Maryland  *
The Maryland Department of Agriculture (MDA) received confirmation yesterday (April 5) that equine herpesvirus type-1 (EHV-1) was the cause of equine illness at the Columbia Horse Center in Columbia, Md. The virus, which causes upper respiratory infection, can also cause neurologic disease. Three horses experienced neurologic signs before their conditions ... Read full story
 4/6/2005
Neurologic Herpesvirus in Canada and Pennsylvania   *
The neurologic form of equine herpesvirus type-1 (EHV-1) has been detected in horses in two additional areas of North America--Nova Scotia, Canada, and Meadowlands, Pa. At least four affected horses were put down (three in Canada and one in Pennsylvania). A fourth case of EHV-1 was detected at Northville Downs in Northville, Mich., in February, but ... Read full story
 4/1/2005
Veterinarian Describes Maryland Disease Cases; Officials Rule Out Rabies  *
Three horses succumbed to neurologic illness and were euthanatized at the Columbia Horse Center (CHC) in Columbia, Md., last week, according to the animals' attending veterinarian. Two more horses at the facility developed signs of the yet-unidentified disease, but are recuperating well, he added. The Maryland Department of Agriculture (MDA) reported ... Read full story
 3/31/2005
EPM Parasite Isolated from Healthy Horse's Blood  *
Scientists recently isolated the parasite that causes the neurological disease equine protozoal myeloencephalitis (EPM) from the blood of an immunocompetent horse--a normal, healthy horse. This research could lead to a better understanding of the way the single-celled protozoan parasite Sarcocystis neurona (which causes EPM) attacks a horse and the ... Read full story
 3/2/2005
Neurologic Equine Herpesvirus Case Euthanatized at Pennsylvania Harness Track  *
A Standardbred mare euthanatized last Friday (Feb. 18) at the Meadows racetrack in Meadowlands, Pa., had the neurologic form of equine herpesvirus type-1 infection, according to University of Pennsylvania veterinarians. The barn where the mare was stabled has been placed under quarantine and veterinarians and trainers are watching other horses at the ... Read full story
 2/23/2005
Neurologic Herpesvirus Confirmed in Maryland Outbreak  *
The neurologic form of equine herpesvirus type-1 (EHV-1) has been confirmed as the cause of disease in two Maryland horses infected during a deadly disease outbreak this spring. Twelve horses exhibited signs of neurologic illness in the outbreak at a single Montgomery County farm, five of which died. While the virus has not been confirmed in the other ... Read full story
 7/9/2004
Maryland Farm Quarantine Lifted  *
The quarantine of a Poolesville, Md., farm was lifted June 22 after five weeks passed with no detection of additional cases of neurologic disease. On May 18, veterinarians confirmed the last new case of what could be the neurologic form of equine herpesvirus type-1 (EHV-1, or equine herpesvirus myeloencephalopathy), but it hasn't been confirmed as ... Read full story
 6/28/2004
WNV: Prevention is Key   *
"West Nile virus (WNV) is the number one diagnosed neurologic disease in horses, or close to it," said William Saville, DVM, PhD, Dipl. ACVIM, of The Ohio State University, at a March 10 Fort Dodge Animal Health educational seminar for veterinarians held in Lexington, Ky. "Because of the decreased number of cases in 2003 compared to 2002, people are ... Read full story
 5/1/2004
AAEP 2003: What is EPM?  *
In 1964, this condition was described as segmental myelitis, noted Kenton Morgan, DVM, Dipl. ACT, a Bayer Animal Health technical service veterinarian at the Horseman’s Day seminar during the AAEP Convention. He added that necropsy exams showed sections of spinal cord affected, but at that time scientists didn't know what was causing the problem. In ... Read full story
 2/3/2004
Dealing With EPM Today  *
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. "Knowing about the life cycle is important because it would allow ... Read full story
 9/1/2003
Herpesvirus Hits Hard  *
(Updated 3/07/03) Ohio and Pennsylvania have confirmed or reported cases of the neurologic form of equine herpesvirus type 1. But the worst problems reported thus far have occurred in Ohio, where 12 horses died in an outbreak at the University of Findlay (see article #4127) and three other Ohio horses died from exposure to those initial cases. Tests ... Read full story
 3/7/2003
Progression of the Ohio EHV-1 Outbreak  *
There were 138 horses stabled at the James L. Child Jr. Equestrian Complex when the equine herpesvirus type 1 (EHV-1) outbreak hit. Beginning Jan. 12, many horses began showing non-specific symptoms, including fever and depression. Some horses also exhibited mild nasal discharge and would not eat. Within 48-72 hours, approximately 85% of the horses ... Read full story
 2/5/2003
WNV Vaccine Study Abstract Released  *
Fort Dodge Animal Health recently received USDA approval to release the following abstract regarding the West Nile virus vaccine and its efficacy. More information on the topic was presented in today's sessions at the World Organisation for Animal Health (Office International des Epizooties--OIE) meeting "Vaccines for OIE list A and Emerging Diseases" ... Read full story
 9/18/2002
Preakness Runner-Up Positive for West Nile Virus, Condition Improving  *
Magic Weisner, the popular gelding who finished second at long odds in the Preakness, was diagnosed Monday with West Nile virus (WNV), said Dr. Bob Vallance, a Maryland veterinarian. Vallance, Magic Weisner's local veterinarian, has been in daily contact with veterinarians at the New Bolton Center in Pennsylvania. Magic Weisner has been a patient ... Read full story
 9/11/2002
Saskatchewan Horses Test Positive for West Nile Virus  *
Six horses in Saskatchewan, Canada, have been diagnosed with West Nile virus (WNV). Horse owners are encouraged to take preventive measures. A conditionally licensed vaccine can be obtained through your veterinarian. West Nile virus is a flavivirus that can infect many different types of animals but causes sickness only in a small number of species. ... Read full story
 9/11/2002
Kentucky Equine WNV Cases Reach 89   *
The Kentucky Department of Agriculture announced late on Aug. 30 that 20 more horses have been confirmed with West Nile virus. That brings the total number of 2002 equine WNV cases in Kentucky to 89.Of the 20 horses reported today, 12 are alive, seven were euthanized, and one died. Four of the 20 had received their first shot in the WNV vaccination ... Read full story
 8/30/2002
Seven More WNV Cases Confirmed In Kentucky  *
The Kentucky State Veterinarian’s office reported late on Friday, Aug. 16, that seven more horses in the state had been confirmed positive for West Nile virus (WNV). That brings the total number of positive horses in the state this year to 15, according to Rusty Ford of the State Veterinarian's office. Of those 15 cases this year, seven survived, seven ... Read full story
 8/16/2002
Churchill Downs, Farms Take Steps Against West Nile Virus  *
Churchill Downs' primary weapon against the West Nile virus (WNV) sits in a clear, plastic vial on the desk of track superintendent Butch Lehr, according to AP writer Chris Duncan. The vial holds birdseed-like pellets that release a chemical that kills mosquitoes in their larval stage. The chemical is otherwise safe and is harmless to horses, making ... Read full story
 8/15/2002
Kentucky Has Fourth West Nile Virus Horse  *
A fourth horse has tested positive for West Nile virus (WNV) in Kentucky. The 5-year-old draft-cross gelding first showed signs on July 26, and he was euthanized on July 29 after becoming recumbent and unable to rise, according to Rusty Ford of the Kentucky State Veterinarian’s office. The gelding was from Greenup County. Ford said there are three ... Read full story
 8/9/2002
Second West Nile Virus Horse Euthanized In Kentucky  *
The Kentucky State Veterinarian’s office reported this evening that a 5-year-old Tennessee Walking Horse gelding in Nelson County has tested positive for West Nile virus (WNV). The gelding began showing clinical signs on July 9, and his ataxia (incoordination) was so severe that he was euthanized on July 10. Diagnostic tests done at the University ... Read full story
 7/18/2002
West Nile Virus in Arkansas and North Dakota  *
A horse in Grand Forks County, ND, has been confirmed as positive for West Nile virus (WNV). This is the first-ever detection of WNV in North Dakota. The horse was an approximately 2-year-old Quarterhorse gelding that became ill on June 30, 2002, and had to be euthanized on July 2. The horse had never been out of the Grand Forks County area and was ... Read full story
 7/16/2002
West Nile Virus in Washington, D.C., New York, and New Jersey  *
Department of Health representatives from Washington, D.C., New York, and New Jersey have detected their first avian cases of West Nile virus (WNV) in 2002. Washington, D.C., reported its first WNV-infected bird on May 13, which was found May 1 a block from the national zoo. May 16 brought the health department laboratory announcement of a WNV-positive ... Read full story
 5/22/2002
Equine Herpesvirus Myeloencephalopathy in Virginia  *
Four cases of mysterious illness in Northern Virginia horses have been attributed to equine herpesvirus (EHV) myeloencephalopathy, a rare neurologic version of EHV type 1, which is typically recognized in its respiratory form as rhinopneumonitis. Three horses at Fox Chase Farm in Middleburg have been euthanized, and one pony is recovering at the farm ... Read full story
 5/8/2002
Wobbler Syndrome Signs and Diagnosis  *
A veterinarian can say several things that will chill every horse owner's heart, including colic, laminitis, navicular disease, and wobbler syndrome. These cause fear because of the unknown--and often unfavorable--outcome for your horse. But as veterinary medicine progresses, these terms cause less anxiety because some of the unknowns are being solved. ... Read full story
 5/1/2002
Slew's Successful Surgery  *
Seattle Slew, the only living winner of Thoroughbred racing's Triple Crown and the oldest living Kentucky Derby winner, underwent surgery to fuse two arthritic joints in his neck on Saturday, March 2, in Lexington, Ky. This is the second operation of this type the 28-year-old stallion has needed. The first surgery was done in early 2000. The lead ... Read full story
 3/6/2002
Equine Medicine/Surgery Congress  *
Veterinarians worldwide were attracted to the prominent names in veterinary medicine who presented topics at the seventh Congress on Equine Medicine and Surgery held in Geneva, Switzerland, Dec. 11-13, 2001. “There were over 500 practitioners in attendance from many countries, and a significantly broader area than Europe,” said Leo Jeffcott, BVetMed, ... Read full story
 2/13/2002
AAEP Convention 2001: Horseman's Day  *
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 ... Read full story
 2/1/2002
Raccoon Another EPM Natural Intermediate Host  *
Researchers at the USDA and The Ohio State University (OSU) have found that the raccoon can serve as an intermediate host for Sarcocystis neurona, the single-celled protozoan parasite that causes the neurological disease equine protozoal myeloencephalitis (EPM). The study was published in a recent issue of Veterinary Parasitology. Another paper published ... Read full story
 11/14/2001
West Nile Virus Suspected in Horse at Churchill Downs  *
Officials awaited word Nov. 12 on whether a Churchill Downs-based horse euthanized Oct. 25 had West Nile virus (WNV). A preliminary diagnosis indicated Rocket Express, a 2-year-old colt, had contracted the virus.The Kentucky State Veterinarian's office investigated the matter, and expected the results of tests by mid-November. The office was closed ... Read full story
 11/12/2001
West Nile Virus Surveillance  *
West Nile virus (WNV) is in the United States to stay, and horse owners should not assume that exposure is limited to the northeastern part of the country. Forty-eight states, four large cities, and the District of Columbia have applied for and received funding from the federal government for WNV surveillance this year. The initiative state governments ... Read full story
 11/1/2001
Equine Motor Neuron Disease  *
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. Thomas J. Divers, DVM, Dipl. ACVIM, ACVECC, ... Read full story
 9/13/2001
EPM Management  *
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 ... Read full story
 9/12/2001
West Nile Virus Found In Ohio  *
A bluejay in northeastern Ohio is the first positive indicator that West Nile virus (WNV) has arrived in Ohio, according to state and local health officials. No horse or human cases have been found. While this is the first time WNV, a viral disease transmitted by mosquitoes, has been identified in the state, it is not unexpected. "This is no surprise. ... Read full story
 8/3/2001
West Nile Virus Vaccine Released  *
The equine industry called out for a way to protect its horses from the deadly neurological disease West Nile virus (WNV), and researchers and federal authorities responded. The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) and Fort Dodge Animal Health announced on Aug. 1 the approval and release of the very first WNV vaccine for horses. The virus ... Read full story
 8/2/2001
FDA Approves First EPM Drug  *
The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved the first drug to treat equine protozoal myeloencephalitis (EPM) in horses. Bayer Animal Health of Shawnee Mission, Kan., is the sponsor of the drug, ponazuril, which will have the trade name Marquis. EPM is a neurological disease caused by the single-celled protozoan parasite Sarcocystis neurona, ... Read full story
 7/27/2001
Skunk Revealed As EPM Intermediate Host  *
Researchers have discovered that the striped skunk serves as an intermediate host for Sarcocystis neurona, the single-celled protozoan parasite that causes the neurological disease equine protozoal myeloencephalitis (EPM) in horses. The striped skunk’s range of habitat encompasses much of the United States, Canada, and northern Mexico, so this discovery ... Read full story
 7/13/2001
EEE In Florida  *
Florida state agriculture officials are urging citizens to take precautions since a growing number of Eastern Equine Encephalitis (EEE) cases in Florida have been diagnosed in horses. "While the recent rainy weather across the state has brought welcome relief from the drought, it has also caused an increase in the mosquito population," Florida Agriculture ... Read full story
 7/6/2001
Contagious Critters  *
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. The diseases ... Read full story
 5/1/2001
Hear The Latest On FMD, EPM, and WNV  *
Tonight The Horse: Your Guide To Equine Health Care will conduct a free seminar for horse owners and industry professionals addressing EPM, West Nile, and Foot and Mouth disease concerns. The seminar is at the Kentucky Horse Park Visitor's Information Center from 5-7 pm. The seminar coincides with the Rolex Kentucky Three-Day Event at the horse park. ... Read full story
 4/27/2001
The Latest From Experts on FMD, EPM, and WNV  *
The Horse: Your Guide To Equine Health Care will conduct a free seminar for horse owners and industry professionals addressing EPM, West Nile, and Foot and Mouth disease concerns. The seminar will be Friday, April 27, 2001, at the Kentucky Horse Park Visitor's Information Center from 5-7 pm. The seminar coincides with the Rolex Kentucky Three-Day Event ... Read full story
 4/20/2001
In The News: A Free Seminar For Horse Owners  *
A free seminar for horse owners and industry leaders about the latest on EPM, West Nile, and Foot and Mouth Disease will be presented Friday, April 27, 2001 at the Kentucky Horse Park Visitor's Information Center from 5-7 pm. The seminar will coincide with the Rolex Kentucky Three-Day Event. Featured speakers include Dr. Bill Saville of The Ohio State ... Read full story
 4/6/2001
WNV Vaccine in Progress  *
Fifty-nine equine cases of West Nile virus (WNV) were confirmed last year in the Northeast. Officials at Fort Dodge Animal Health’s laboratories in Kansas City, Mo., have been working diligently to develop a WNV vaccine for veterinary use, and potentially help prevent the virus from appearing in horses in 2001. West Nile made its Western Hemisphere ... Read full story
 1/1/2001
West Nile Update  *
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. West ... Read full story
 1/1/2001
Florida Gears Up for West Nile Virus  *
Seasoned with the experience of handling Eastern encephalitis (EE, formerly known as Eastern Equine Encephalitis, or EEE) and St. Louis encephalitis (SLE) outbreaks, the state of Florida is preparing a strong defensive line to protect its citizens, both horses and humans, against West Nile virus (WNV). While there is no evidence WNV has reached Florida, ... Read full story
 1/1/2001
West Nile Studies Begin  *
The mysteries of West Nile virus are being uncovered at Colorado State University (CSU), thanks to a joint effort of the United States Equestrian Team (USET), the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), and the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA). West Nile virus, which is a type of encephalitis thought to be spread by the bite of an infected ... Read full story
 1/1/2001
Choices  *
Do we have an obligation to our industry? Does our industry have an obligation to us? (Sounds a little Kennedyesque.) If your neighbor has a horse with strangles, would you expect him or her to tell you so you can protect your horses? If you had a contagious disease on your farm, would you tell your neighbors? If you had something that could help your ... Read full story
 4/1/1998
Equine Herpes Virus  *
The first thought that comes to most people when the word "herpes" is mentioned is one of those nagging pain-in-the-neck cold sores, one type of which is caused by a herpes virus, and the venereal disease "herpes simplex." The word "herpes" refers to a family of viruses that actually cause a variety of diseases in people and animals. Chickenpox in ... Read full story
 9/1/1997




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