Could Flatter Saddles Improve Welfare in Ridden Horses?
From Equine Science Update: A new study has indicated that flatter-shaped saddles may be more suitable for horses that spend most of their ridden time in motion. The research, which observed significant changes in the shape of horses’ backs while stationary and during movement, found that horse backs become considerably flatter during motion compared to […]
Equine Juvenile Spinocerebellar Ataxia
November 30, 2024 Comments Off on Equine Juvenile Spinocerebellar Ataxia
In a world where countless foals are born each year and thou-sands are registered with the American Quarter Horse As-sociation, the largest equine breed registry in the world, genetic diseases are a sig-nificant concern for breeders and owners alike. However, when a disease has affected at least 12 foals in the past four years, it’s understood that this is an inherited condition that can and should be prevented. Addressing this rare disease is crucial to safeguarding future generations of horses.
Continue reading …Slow-Feeding Devices: Stresses in Horses Studied
November 29, 2024 Comments Off on Slow-Feeding Devices: Stresses in Horses Studied
From Kentucky Equine Research: Despite the benefits of slow-feeding devices (SFDs), some ponies and horses may show signs of frustration when using these tools. Because SFDs are meant to improve animal welfare, primarily by extending feeding time, selecting an appropriate one that minimizes frustration is recommended. SFDs include haynets, hay balls, and even a newer device called […]
Continue reading …Equine Stretching: The Key to Enhanced Performance and Well-Being
November 2, 2024 Comments Off on Equine Stretching: The Key to Enhanced Performance and Well-Being
By Dr. Jillian Johnson, DC, AVCA, Farmhouse Chiropractic Equine stretching is an often-overlooked aspect of horse care that plays a vital role in maintaining the health and performance of your equine partner. As riders, understanding the benefits of stretching can not only help accelerate recovery after exercise but also decrease pain, minimize the risk of injury, […]
Continue reading …Revisions to Horse Protection Act Effective February 1, 2025
October 30, 2024 Comments Off on Revisions to Horse Protection Act Effective February 1, 2025
The American Horse Council (AHC) is releasing this advisory to inform the industry of important changes to the Horse Protection Act (HPA). Background on the HPA can be found at https://www.aphis.usda.gov/hpa . As a general reminder, the HPA covers all equine breeds and disciplines to eliminate the practice of soring horses. The AHC and other industry stakeholders have […]
Continue reading …Can Horses Sniff Out Poisonous Plants?
October 11, 2024 Comments Off on Can Horses Sniff Out Poisonous Plants?
From Equine Science Update: Recent research from Poland suggests that horses may use their sense of smell to avoid poisonous plants. Many plants are toxic to horses, potentially causing serious health issues or even death if ingested. So how do horses identify poisonous plants? In the wild, horses may avoid unfamiliar plants or those with […]
Continue reading …Managing Thin Soles in Performance Horses
October 10, 2024 Comments Off on Managing Thin Soles in Performance Horses
From Equine Science Update: Thin soles and poor palmar angles are common issues in performance horses, significantly impacting their comfort, movement, and hoof health. Horses with thin soles are more prone to lameness due to increased sensitivity, pain, bruising, and a higher risk of developing solar abscesses. Managing thin soles can be challenging for farriers […]
Continue reading …Multi-State EIA Outbreak in Quarter Horse Racehorses
October 9, 2024 Comments Off on Multi-State EIA Outbreak in Quarter Horse Racehorses
From the EDCC: On September 20th and 24th, the National Veterinary Services Laboratories (NVSL) confirmed equine infectious anemia (EIA)-positive results in 4 Quarter Horse racehorses that were part of a group recently moved from racing in New Mexico to Los Alamitos in California. Several of the EIA-positive horses were showing clinical signs of EIA upon […]
Continue reading …Four Autumn Feeding Facts for Horses
September 27, 2024 Comments Off on Four Autumn Feeding Facts for Horses
From KER: As summer transitions into autumn, new horse-keeping challenges arise. Be on the lookout for these four potential problems. 1. Deteriorating pasture quality warrants a diet overhaul. “In the spring, we are often concerned about the pasture being too good in quality or high in fructans, which sometimes mandates the use of drylots and grazing […]
Continue reading …Know the Signs: Early Detection of EPM is Critical
September 25, 2024 Comments Off on Know the Signs: Early Detection of EPM is Critical
Use these resources to help identify the early signs of EPM (equine protozoal myeloencephalitis). Click on the following resources to download a PDF. Know the clinical signs of EPM: Put this “Don’t STALL signs” poster in your barn and stay alert to the early signs of EPM. Learn more about EPM: This brochure details the […]
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