Her presentation will focus on equine neurologic diseases, which can range from a drooping eyelid, to a change in personality, to an inability to stand. Dr. Johnstone will present several cases, asking the question: What’s your diagnosis?

We all admire the equine athlete, the captivating blend of speed, control, grace and endurance. But the added stress of performance requires an optimal diet, with plenty of energy from carbohydrates and fats, high quality protein, adequate minerals, and vitamins.

Is your area prone to flooding? What about tornadoes or blizzards? If the roads are closed, how do you get food to your horses?

MRLS can cause late-term foal losses, early- and late-term fetal losses and weak foals. Subsequent studies by UK researchers revealed that horses will inadvertently eat the caterpillars, and the caterpillar hairs embed into the lining of the alimentary tract.

“Data from the National Fire Reporting System (NFIRS) and the National Fire Protection Association (www.nfpa.org) show that the incidence of barn fires during March and April index higher than any other period of the year,” notes Wayne G. Hipsley, chairman of HorseSafetyUSA.com.

“The numbers of rabid animals in the wild should be concerning to horse owners because all it takes is one bite from an infected animal for a horse to contract the fatal disease,” says Green.

At this time of year, cold stress combined with age, low body condition, or some combination of the three may create a situation where horses are more susceptible to illness.