July 2021
Serving the Michigan, Indiana & Ohio Tri-State Horse Community
CLUB NEWS
Association Michigan MichiganFox Fox Trotter Trotter Association
included a competition for the fortable stonewashed blue most ambitious member PROTECT YOUR LARGEwho BALE HAY INVE$TMENT! 100% cotton t-shirts emblademonstrates their horsemanship skills wide avariety categories. zonedin awith blackof MFT silQuarterly andorder, year-end be houette. To go awards to the will michgiven. Go to www.michiganfoxtrotters.com iganfoxtrotters.com website to use the to read the rules and print off the forms to join in on Paypal link or send a check for $25/$30 for XXL the friendly competition and fun. (made outFox toTrotters MFTA)are toslowly MFTA, 2333 Hagadorn More becoming available to Road, Mason, state sizeisneeded and on it purchase but theyMI are48854, selling fast. There a good video the Fox Trot posted on our Face Book site to willcorrect be shipped togait you. Everyone is encouraged refer to when you arePlease considering MFT to buy. in Be this sure to purchase one. helpanus succeed to bring a knowledgeable person with you,too, when you fundraiser so we can continue to offer more narrow down your search. Breeders, Chuck Fanslow (rivactivities. Wear these (989-534-1207), t-shirts to show erflatranch.com) andone GaleofGunders have your Fox Trotter pride! OrderThey youralso medium and well-gaited young stock available. have quality studs breedsoon! to if you have a mare you want bred. Chuck XXLtosizes hasMeet a Buckskin stallion and a palomino stallion(both sons new member Bonnie Lane of Brighton, of Cotton Eyed Joe). Gale has a spotted stallion who will Michigan. She is the proud owner of a threethrow color to your foal. Both are located in Gladwin,MI. year-oldthem Texas-bred Dunalino stallion, Future Dimensions: 72” x 78” x There 76”is Contact if you want to have your mare bred.
Gold Dun. He has already sired six foals this Weight: 230 lbs.
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Wethe have resources and of people available for you to learn is nothing like expectation a well-bred foal! year! Bonnie is an avid trail rider whose motto is from and breeders to refer you to if you want to Don't forget to transfer your newly-bought horse's “Ride til you can't!”. the buy a youngWelcome one to train orto if you wantMFTA, to further registration papers into your name with the MFTHBA,too. the training with your present horse. Bonnie! We are growing! New member welcomes gomembers out to MFTHBA needs registered Congratulations goTheout to Susan Williams(for Naomi Haas, equinetodentist Kris Modreske and fill their committees for 2021. I justHarry agreed the Versatility Not Struble all of MI. Naomi rides sorrel sabino gelding to help out on athe Trail Committee again. (Dexter) and a black mareyou (Hank's Serenity Liberty need Bell Surely can,too! Various committees Under Saddle division), Mandy Kellogg(Under members(younger ones too) for their input B). Kris rides a black and white gelding (Radar's Spotted Saddle) and Jodi Myers(Ultimate Horseman's and advice togoincrease numbers,think Prior). And congratulations out toaffiliate Harry Struble on Challenge) forof earning the most points in the waysGolden to make the shows better,to improve and his purchase of Joe's Chip, a handsome buckskin okay NationalOur Trail 22 Ride applications,give ideas on first quarter of 2021. Versatility Challenge gelding, from Chuck Fanslow. All these memclinics (let's get more closer to our state),getting more verparticipants have been busy accubers are riding quality Fox Trotters!!! satility riders interested,give ideas on training and picking judges, plus mulating pointsare and New members always welmore. Many positions can be supported remotely. Also, this ismiles a great come! Go to www.michiganfoxforests way to meet those from other camping areas of the in USAthe whocool raise,train and trotters.com to print off the ride MFTs. I have made new friends this way who I would not have of Michigan and surotherwise. Contact the MO Fox Trotting Horse Breeding membership form.Association We meet rounding states, via www.mfthba.com to become a member and forsomore virtually all information members attending on helping out. are able to meet cattle, without Also, PLEASE send in your MFTA dressage dues and yourand MFTHBA dues horsehaving to drive long disasap! tances. manship clinics, parWishing everyone a blessed and safe Christmas! Our Event Committee ticipating in Respectfully submitted, is busy planning next Mannino MastersonMarilynthe clinic. It will be a Gaited Method, obstacle, Western Dressage Clinic at For the Finest Money Can Buy police and possee clinthe end of May. More details From One Piecewill TobeAn Entire Stall available ics, doing groundwork, next month. The trail maintenance, producing Or An Exhibition Stall. clinician is top-notch! educational videos and showing. SLIDING SWINGING DOORS A littleOR history on our breed: The presMFTs can do so many different things well! ent-day Missouri Fox Trotter evolved from Morgans in Our heartfelt condolences go outPlantation to the New England being crossed with Arabians, Parliament familySaddlebreds, for the loss of their and son, pacing Elon, Horses, American TWHs Standardbreds. The geneticfamily mix of square-trotting horses and to the Williams with the loss of and pacing horses created the comfortable fox trot gait! Susan's mother, Vickie. May they both rest in Missouri Fox Trotting horses have been used by farmers in peace. June was a tough month. Missouri and surrounding states to ride long distances to Dotheir you fencing own a and Foxwork Trotter to check cows,and pull would buggies,like by US join active affiliate of the police MFTHBA? to Forestthis Service workers, by mounted and nowGo people across the United States and Europe use them for recremichiganfoxtrotters.com for the membership ation (showing, trail riding, Dressage,reining, 4Hpasand form. WeStalls always welcome people Design workinterested for youThey and your Equestrian Team,that Hippotherapy,etc.). are truly sionate about Fox Trotters who are willing to versatile and also canComponent be found in allPieces colors and Try Horses.... With orsizes! promote this breed. Send yours in now! one out and findversatile out why everyone loves them so!
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Hello December! Time is sure flying!! Marilyn Mannino Marilyn Mannino At our November meeting we elected some new officers for 2021. Congratulations go out Hello April! Spring is upon us! People are out Fox to Bob Howell hot elected as the new MFTA PresHappy July! Trotting and enjoying theMarilyn weather. Many are accumulatident, Kathy Kruch is now VP, is still Join us on the MFTHBA/MFTA ing points in the Versatility Challenges that weNational are offerSecretary/Treasurer, Char Ostrom is the new Trail Ride September 17 through September 19 ing. 2-year Director and Miranda Mannino is now Registration is still in open for allMichigan. three Versatility the 1-year Director. at D bar D Ranch Chase, Make We arecamping accepting renewals Notwith Challenges (Under membership Saddle Challenge, Under Saddle your reservations them and new memberships for 2021 now. Youth Challenge). are Challenge and Ultimate Horseman This (dbardranchmichigan.com) now so you can goproon encouraged to join too! to www.michiganfoxgram is designed to Go show how versatile the Missouri Fox trotters.com to printride, off thebring form. You will learn to alotpass for the a guided trail a dessert Trotter is. Registered and grade MFTs are allowed. from our members aboutMeet the history of Fox Trotters,their Saturday night & Greet, play All through useshandicapped and availability and and regular be able toyouth network with those of us who Bingo astride and sing around the adults are welcome. Every imaginable camp,train and show them. Our association is blessed to have skilled activity andTell category included trainers,breeders and D a farrier learn from. We love promoting this campfire. baristoD that from in hand work to Dressage, breed as they have great personalities,are you are with the Michigan so versatile and come in many sizes and different colors.toA benefit to joining is that we short distance trail coat riding Fox Trotter group. You do can offer clinics at a reduced price to our members. Due to Covid we endurance competitions and not have to be a member are meeting remotely each month. Michigan is a big state and this is a everything in-between (cow goodparticipate. way to easily see This and talkwill with each other within and outside of to work, driving, extreme trail, MI. Come join the fun! 4H and open showing, be aSign really time! We up nowfun for the popular Versatility Challenge for 2021. Print parades, reining, trail maintehave a fundraiser going off the enrollment form from our website. There are may areas in nance and also which We you can accumulate points-even in the non-rideable months. on. aremore!). sellingWe com-
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Weldy Enterprises • 911 E. Waterford St. Wakarusa, IN 46573 574-862-4491 • 800-628-4728 • FAX 574-862-2122 • email: info@weldyenterprises.com Equine Times Equine Times
July 2021 April
December 2020
Equine Times
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Princess Pixie's Sparkly Flax Snax Kyanah Blair
If you're looking to add a little bit of fun and sparkle to your horse treats, look no further than Princess Pixie's Sparkly Flax Snax. Edible glitter is not required for this recipe.
Te m p e r atu r e 350°
B a k e Ti m e 20-25 minutes
In g r e d i e n t s 1 cup oats (If you want them to be human edible too, then use Quaker Oats or the like) 1 cup flour ¾ cup flax meal 3 tbsp coconut oil ½ tsp baking soda ½ tsp baking powder ½ tsp cinnamon ½ cup molasses
Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Mix the oats and flour in a large mixing bowl. Put the flax meal, coconut oil, baking powder, baking soda, and cinnamon in a food processor and mix together. Add flour and oats to the mixing bowl. Add molasses and mix all the ingredients together until they
become "dough like". Spoon tablespoon size balls onto greased cookie sheet. Sprinkle with edible glitter in the color of your choice. (optional) Bake for 15 minutes. Sprinkle with colored sugar. (optional) Bake an additional 5-10 minutes. Allow to cool before feeding to horses.
House approves Rep. Alexander plan to support Michigan equine industry Jeremiah Ward LANSING, MI. — The Michigan House of Representatives today approved a bipartisan plan to support the equine industry in Michigan, introduced by state Rep. Julie Alexander, chair of the House Committee on Agriculture. “The agriculture industry employs many skilled and hard-working Michigan residents, and horse farms are no exception,” said Alexander, of Hanover. “A portion of betting revenues are put to work to assist the equine industry, and this plan will remove the arbitrary cap on this support for horse breeders and owners — growing our agriculture economy without raising taxes. Supporting Michigan farms and farmers is one of my major priorities as I serve the people in the Legislature.” Alexander’s House Bill 4823 and state Rep. Kevin Hertel’s HB 4824 remove limits on betting revenues deposited into the Agriculture Equine Industry Development
Fund (AEIDF). The AEIDF supports programs to incentivize breeding and raising of horses in Michigan, including support for horseracing at county fairs. Currently, 5% of tax revenue raised from sports betting and internet gaming at commercial casinos is deposited into the AEIDF, up to $3 million each from sports betting and internet gaming. Any amount beyond $3 million in a year must revert to the Internet Sports Betting Fund or the Internet Gaming Fund, respectively. Alexander’s plan would remove the $3 million maximum for both sports betting and internet gaming. The bills passed the House with bipartisan support and now advance to the Senate for consideration. The approved legislation is the second bipartisan equine plan Alexander has introduced this year. HBs 4599 and 4600 would increase the allowable support for the equine industry using existing dollars in the AEIDF. The bills passed the House in May
July 2021
and are currently under consideration by the Senate Committee on Agriculture.
Equine Times
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Alfalfa and Horses Dr. Tania Cubitt It’s green and leafy, and horses love it, but alfalfa hay also has a bit of a bad reputation in the horse world. It’s been blamed for colic and high spirits, but does alfalfa deserve the stigma that seems to follow it? The simple answer is “no,” since alfalfa hay is an excellent source of protein, calories, calcium and Vitamin A for horses. But alfalfa also isn’t for every horse—when making a decision about whether to incorporate alfalfa into your feeding program, it’s important to be informed about its strengths and weaknesses. Alfalfa hay can be an excellent source of calories for horses who need help in gaining weight, or whose exercise demands require additional energy sources. It’s especially helpful for a hard keeper because of its high palatability—horses love to eat it. Feeding alfalfa is an excellent alternative to feeding excessive amounts of grain at meals to get more calories into a horse’s diet. Alfalfa is usually lower in ber, higher in energy, higher in protein and higher in calcium than grass hays. Because it is higher in energy and protein, using alfalfa makes it easier to meet those needs with minimal or at least lower levels of supplementation. Protein After water, the major constituent of the horse’s body is protein. Eighty percent of the muscles and twenty percent of the skeleton consist of some type of protein. Consequently, protein is essential for growth, and for the repair and formation of new tissue. Protein is also the building material for enzymes and many hormones, giving it a vital role in the regulatory processes of horses. Blood solids are largely protein, and because antibod- ies and other immune substances are proteins, this nutrient also plays a major function in ghting infection. As a rule, protein requirements decrease with age. Mature horses use protein to maintain body tissues and synthesize antibodies, blood, hormones and the like, rather than build new masses of muscle and bone associated with growth. Therefore, the younger the horse, the greater the protein requirement when expressed as a percentage of total diet. The exception to the relationship of age and protein requirements is for late pregnancy and lactation, when the mare has increased protein requirements for proper nourishment of the foal. Alfalfa hay is an excellent source of protein, both in content and quality. It is not unusual for mid-bloom alfalfa hay to have a crude protein content of 17% or greater. The amount of protein supplied by alfalfa can go a long way toward satisfying the high protein requirements of young, growing horses. In the case of mature horses, free-choice alfalfa hay will certainly provide enough protein to satisfy requirements. As a practical recommendation, select alfalfa hays which do not contain extremely high levels of protein (greater than 17% crude protein). Minerals Today’s horses are expected to perform at higher levels, mature more rapidly, produce more offspring and live a longer productive life than ever before. All of these factors—performance, growth rate, reproduction and age—complicate the nutrient requirements of the horse in ways unforeseen 20 years ago. Wild horses survive on forage alone. However, wild horses are never expected to perform on the track or in the arena, and their
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July 2021
low reproductive rate would drive most professional breeders out of the business. Everything we expect a horse to do for us exacts a price. It then becomes necessary to replace the nutrients being expended if performance is to be maintained. Couple a complex set of mineral requirements with forages which are often marginal in mineral content, and we have the potential for performance problems. The mineral content of alfalfa hay is largely dependent on the mineral content of the soil. As would be expected, the mineral content of soil varies from region to region and has certainly changed over the past 20 to 30 years. The mineral content of your alfalfa compared to the mineral content of your neighbor’s, or even your grandfather’s (20 years ago), is certainly different. As a trend, the trace mineral profile (copper, zinc and selenium) of alfalfa is marginal when compared to the trace mineral requirements for growing and performance horses. It is generally recommended that horses being fed strictly alfalfa hay diets be supplemented with additional trace minerals. This trace mineral fortification typically comes in the form of pelleted grain concentrates or low intake mineral supplements. For young, growing horses, two minerals, calcium and phosphorus, are vital for proper skeletal formation. Alfalfa hay is an excellent source of highly available calcium, but unfortunately is often a poor source of phosphorus. To grow a sound skeleton, young horses first need adequate amounts of both calcium and phosphorus. Next, the young horse requires calcium and phosphorus in the correct ratio to one another. Ideally, we would like to have a total dietary calcium to phosphorus ratio of between 1.5-2 parts calcium to 1 part phosphorus. When feeding strictly alfalfa hay, it is not uncommon to have large amounts of calcium with marginal amounts of phosphorus. In addition, the ratio of calcium to phosphorus in some alfalfa hays approaches 15 parts calcium to 1 part phosphorus. It is recommended that young, growing horses receive supplemental phosphorus in the form of a ration balancer supplement or developing horse commercial concentrate. Research has shown that in addition to being an excellent energy and protein source, alfalfa hay also has the ability to buffer stomach acid and alleviate ulcer severity and formation. A study done at Texas A&M University fed 12 horses a pelleted grain and Bermuda grass hay, and 12 horses pelleted grain and alfalfa hay. Each horse in the study had been assigned a gastric ulcer score before the study began as a result of gastric endoscopy. At the end of the study, the ulcer severity scores of the horses fed alfalfa had dropped overall, while the ulcer severity scores of the horses fed Bermuda grass hay had risen. More than 80 percent of performance horses suffer from some varying degree of ulceration. Alfalfa is high in calcium and protein—both of which have a buffering effect on the acid in the stomach. Adding a little alfalfa, especially prior to exercise, really helps buffer the stomach acid. In conclusion, the availability and nutrient content of alfalfa hay make it a logical forage for horses. Selecting alfalfa hay with moderate protein content and providing additional diet fortification with minerals, help make this a balanced forage for horses.
Some Common Alfalfa Myths Myth
Busted
Alfalfa increases the risk of colic.
Busted
Rapid diet changes are associated with colic, so it’s possible that if you change from grass hay to alfalfa hay all of a sudden, or you introduce alfalfa hay abruptly, you could increase the risk of colic.
Myth
Alfalfa can cause kidney damage due to its high protein levels.
Busted
That’s an old wives’ tale, probably inspired by the fact that horses with high protein intake tend to drink more water, and therefore urinate more. The body’s process for breaking down protein into calories results in nitrogen as a byproduct, which gets filtered out of the body in the horse’s kidneys. A horse that is converting excess protein to calories will drink more water, to aid that ltering, and will have urine with a strong ammonia smell, as the nitrogen is excreted as urea. But the excess protein does not harm the kidneys.
Myth
Alfalfa hay will make a horse hot, or crazy.
Busted
Not so, if fed appropriately. Alfalfa provides a significant amount of calories; however, an excess of calories in any form, whether from alfalfa, grain or oil, without the exercise to burn them, can result in an excessively energetic horse. Alfalfa fed with a careful eye to the proportions of the whole diet, and the energy needs of the horse, will not create excess energy. July 2021
Equine Times
Page 5
Can You Identify Normal Horse Vital Signs? Normal Temperature
Normal Pulse
Normal Respiration
Dehydration
Normal Gut Sound
Normal Capillary Refill Time
99.5 - 101.3°F
38 - 40 beats/ minute
8 - 15 breaths/ minute
Skin takes more than 2 seconds to return to place
Gurgling, sound of fluid dripping/ tinkling
1 - 2 seconds
How to check: The most accurate way to take a horse’s temperature is rectally (dipped in lubricant), using a digital thermometer.
How to check: There are 3 ideal areas to take your horse’s pulse – under the jaw, beneath the tail at its bone or an area on the side of the foot. Count for 15 seconds and multiple by 4.
How to check: Watching your horse’s ribcage or nostrils for 1 minute, count 1 inhale and 1 exhale as a single breath.
How to check: Pinch the skin on your horse’s neck or shoulder area and it should return to its normal place within 1-2 seconds.
How to check: Place ear or a stethoscope up against horse’s body, just behind the last rib, checking both sides.
How to check: Place finger against horse's gums for 2 seconds, creating a white mark from finger pressure. The white mark should return to normal pink tone within 1-2 seconds.
Tips: • Always be sure to clean the thermometer after use • Exercise, stress or infections can elevate temperature • Leave the thermometer in long enough to avoid a false low reading
Tips: • Don’t double count heartbeats • Foals – 70-120 beats/minute • Yearlings – 45-60 beats/minute
Tips: • Do not measure respiration by letting your horse sniff your hand • Wait for 30 minutes after exercise to check rate • Respiration rate should not exceed pulse rate
Tips: • Horses need 5-12 gallons of water per day in normal environments • In heat or with heavy exercise, horses need 15-20 gallons of water per day
Tips: • Call the vet if there is an absence of sound, as it could indicate colic
References National Research Council. 2007. Nutrient Requirements of Horses: Sixth Revised Edition. Washington, DC: The National Academies Press.
Other Tips
• Be sure to check vital signs regularly to know what is normal, so you can identify anything abnormal • Do not take vital measurements on a nervous horse, to ensure accuracy • Call your veterinarian immediately if anything is abnormal
Veterinary Contact Information
What You Need To Know About Gastric Ulcers Name:
Email:
Phone:
standleeforage.com | 800-398-0819 What is the Prevalence of Gastric Ulcers in Horses?
What Causes Gastric Ulcers?
• 93% of race horses • 58% of show horses • 25-50% of foals
• High grain, low forage diets • Meal feeding • Long periods of fasting
Clinical Signs of Gastric Ulcers
Diagnosing of Gastric Ulcers
Treatment
Prevention & Management
• Loss of appetite • Weight loss • Poor body condition • Irritability and attitude change • Abdominal discomfort
• Consult your veterinarian • Fast for minimum of 12 hours • Water withheld for 4 hours • Gastric endoscopy
• Acid pump inhibitors, i.e. Omeprazole • Maintain stomach pH of greater than 4 • Management adjustments to reduce ulcer opportunity
• Feed forage frequently or offer free choice pasture to stimulate saliva production • Add alfalfa forage to diet as calcium is known to reduce acidity • Avoid exercising horse on empty stomach • Be cautious with anti-inflammatory drug use • Limit stressful situations • Reduce amount of concentrates fed
• Decreased performance
Page 6 References Equine Times July 2021 Nadeau JA, et al. “Evaluation of diet as a cause of gastric ulcers in horses.” Am J Vet Res. 2000 Jul;61(7):784-90. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/m/pubmed/10895901/ Pellegrini, Franklin L.(2005). “Results of a large-scale necroscopic study of equine colonic ulcers.” Journal of Equine Veterinary Science , Volume 25 , Issue 3 , 113 – 117. Andrews, Frank & Buchanan, B.R. & Elliot, S.B. & Clariday, N.A. & Edwards, L.H.. (2005). “Gastric ulcers in horses.” J Anim Sci. 83. E18-E21.
Veterinary Contact Information Name: Email:
Horses, just like humans, struggle with gastric ulcers. Learn the factors that can lead to ulcers. America's Horse Daily
Ulcers in Horses Taylor Fabus EAST LANSING, MI. — You may be surprised to discover how common gastric ulcers are in the equine population. Some studies have shown the prevalence of gastric ulcers to be as high as 50-90% of the observed population. There are a variety of reasons why this may be. According to Michigan State University Extension, several environmental factors may cause your horse to be more susceptible to ulcers. Many factors can lead to gastric ulcers (in a variety of species) including: • Rapid change in diet • Change in environment or living
condition • Compromised immune system • Change in routine (exercise, location or new horses to pasture) Do you know the warning signs that ulcers may be present? Unfortunately, no two horses are alike, and their symptoms may be very different. Additionally, some horses may show little to no signs that they are suffering from ulcers. Common signs of an ulcer problem: • Lethargy • Lack of appetite • Irritability • Mild colic symptoms • Weight loss • Diarrhea July 2021
Although there are challenges in diagnosing ulcers, the best advice is prevention. Avoiding gastric ulcers will save you time and money as well as help prevent unnecessary pain caused by the ulcers. Some management tips for preventing ulcers are: • Provide free choice forage in the form of hay or pasture • Provide opportunities for turnout and grazing as much as possible • Reduce the amount of grain in the diet • Feed small meals of grain more frequently Equine Times
Page 7
Maintaining Body Condition In Gina T. It may seem like common sense, but a horse that is overweight is a horse that will struggle in warmer temperatures. The fat on a horse acts as insulation, great in the winter, but come summer this is a major issue. An obese horse in the summer can result in heat stress. This is why it’s vital to keep tabs on your horses’ body condition score during all seasons. A proper body condition score (BCS) for growing and performance horses, as well as general-use horses, should be kept at 4-7, with a 5 being “ideal”. Broodmares should generally be kept at a 5.5-7.5.
Weight tape (or a scale) can be used to monitor changes in the horse’s body condition. A weight tape may not be very accurate for estimating exact body weight for a particular horse, but it is consistently accurate at discovering changes in your horse’s weight. Take the measurement every 30 days, applying the tape at the same location around the heart girth and behind the withers, and maintain the same tension on the tape each time you use it. The results of your monthly measurements can be used to adjust your horse’s feeding program to maintain a constant and desirable body weight and body condition score.
Hot
Weather
Ask the Expert: Feeding Preservative Treated Hay Krishona Martinson, PhD
Our regular hay supplier applied a preservative (propionic acid) to the bales this year. What is that and is it safe for horses?
Preservatives are commonly used during times of frequent rainfall or poor drying conditions (e.g. high humidity or heavy dew). Propionic and acetic acids are commonly used hay preservative that are applied to hay as it is baled to allow baling of wetter than normal hay without spoiling during storage. Moisture at the time of baling is directly related to mold formation. Hay baled at ≤15% moisture is unlike to mold; however this is impacted by bale-type and mass. For example, small square bales can be baled up to 18% moisture with limited risk of mold formation; however, large round bales must be baled at ≤15% moisture to reduce the risk of mold formation. Preservatives are most effective at inhibiting mold growth, and most economical, when the hay is baled between 18 to 25% moisture. Preservatives are safe for use in horse hay. Researchers found that when given a choice, horses preferred hay that was not treated with a preservative; however, horses readily consumed the treated hay when a choice was not given. Yearlings receiving hay treated with a preservative consumed and gained just as much as yearlings consuming untreated hay, and clinical measures of well-being were not affected by consumption of preservative-treated hay. Interestingly, a horse’s hindgut bacteria actually make propionic acid as a result of microbial fermentation. Therefore, feeding horses hay treated with a preservative is a safe and common practice, especially in years when poor weather conditions exist for making hay, and helps to inhibit mold growth during storage.
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Equine Times
July 2021
July 2021
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Benefits of Canola Oil for Horses
Standlee Barn Bulletin
Benefit 1 – Omega 3 Fatty Acid Content All sources of vegetable oil (i.e. corn oil, rice oil, soybean oil, canola oil, etc.) contain polyunsaturated fatty acids. This presence of polyunsaturated fatty acids makes these fats liquid at room temperature, compared to saturated fats (i.e. tallow, lard and to a degree, butter) that are solid at room temperature. Polyunsaturated fatty acids are commonly grouped as Omega 3 or Omega 6 fatty acids. The difference between an Omega 3 and Omega 6 fatty acid is simply the chemistry of the fatty acid. However, this chemistry makes the fatty acid have different functions in the body. Omega 6 fatty acids, through their metabolic intermediaries, serve many pro-inflammatory reactions within the body, while the metabolic intermediaries of Omega 3 fatty acids fuel many anti-inflammatory reactions within the body. Ideally, the body requires a balance of Page 10 Equine Times
these two fatty acid types. Unfortunately, many of the grains and supplements fed to horses have a very high Omega 6 content and a very low Omega 3 content. This pushes the body to an inflammatory state which is not healthy. Standlee Premium Western Forage utilizes canola oil in their premium chopped forage products due to the favorable ratio of Omega 6 to Omega 3 fatty acids. Canola oil contains two parts Omega 6 to one part Omega 3. Corn oil on the other hand contains 82 parts Omega 6 to one part Omega 3. Simply stated, canola oil is a healthier choice for horses. Benefit 2 – Sugar-Free Calories Digestion of canola oil yields 2.25 more calories than any other ingredient in the horse’s diet. Thus, adding canola oil increases the calorie content of the premium chopped products, resulting in less product required to maintain the desired weight of the horse. In addition, canola oil does not contain any sugar. Many horses suffer from sugar-related diseases includJuly 2021
ing insulin resistance, Cushing’s disease, tying-up and laminitis, that are made worse with diets utilizing high sugar ingredients. This makes the addition of canola oil a much better choice compared with molasses (which has 55.2% Water Soluble Carbohydrate (WSC) and 35.5 Ethanol Soluble Carbohydrate (ESC or simple sugar) as reported by Dairy One Forage Laboratory Feed Analytical Library). Benefit 3 – Leaf Retention The process of physically cutting premium alfalfa forage, and to a limited degree, premium timothy grass forage, to form a chopped product creates fine material. These “fines” are not dust from dirt or debris in the forage, but simply fractured leaf and grass blade material. The addition of canola oil helps bind these nutritious portions of the forage such that they don’t settle out of the chopped forage. This allows the horse to consume the entire product and result in minimal waste.
Costs and Considerations When Rescuing a Horse Krishona Martinson On occasion, the horse industry relies on well-intentioned horse owners to rescue horses and other equids from negative situations. These horses rarely come with a history of their breed, age, training level, health, temperament, or disposition. Many times, rescuing or fostering these horses takes a skilled horse person with monetary resources. The goal of this article is to outline some of the common needs and costs of rescuing a horse. Adoption or Purchase Fee It is common for horse rescues to request an adoption fee which can range from $100 to over $1,000. This fee rarely covers the rescue’s investment in the horse, but does provide the new owner some history of the horse. When rescuing a horse from a kill pen, it is common for the new owner to purchase or bail-out the horse; this fee can range from $100 to $1,000. Transportation Rescue horses likely need to be transported to their new location. If using a privately owned trailer, the trailer should be cleaned and disinfected after transporting the horse. Commercial haulers commonly charge $1 to $2 per loaded mile. Housing All rescue horses will need to be quarantined in a private area for 30 days. Although it is difficult to attach a price for horse care at a privately owned farm, quarantine board at a public boarding facility can range from $200 to over $1,000 each month. Basic Veterinary Care A veterinary assessment prior to rescuing a horse is rarely possible. Most rescued horses will need vaccinations, a Coggins test, and a fecal egg count and deworming. Additional care may include an examination and treatment for ulcers,
castration, dental work, and delousing. Prices for veterinary care vary greatly and depend on the condition of the horse. Average costs for basic care include: initial veterinary examination ($100), five core vaccinations ($75), Coggins ($30), fecal egg count ($25), annual deworming ($60), ulcer examination and treatment ($500), castration ($250), basic dental examination ($250), delousing ($25 for product). Specialty Veterinary Care Horses in need of being rescued can suffer from a number of diseases and conditions, including lameness, laminitis, pregnancy, lacerations, broken bones, unveitis, and skin diseases, which may result in the need for medications, ultrasounds, radiographs, or even euthanasia and rendering. Some lameness issues can be resolved, while others may be long-term, untreatable, or surpass the owner’s economic and management ability to treat. A recent survey determined the average costs for euthanasia and rendering in Minnesota was $237 and $168, respectively. Nutrition Many times, rescue horses are underweight. These horses will require high-quality forage and a grain concentrate. On a monthly basis, these costs can average $75 for hay, $150 for commercial grain products, and $50 for additional supplements. The horse should slowly, over the course of two weeks, be introduced to the new diet. Horses that are emaciated will require a special and longer-term re-feeding program. In this case, please consult with a veterinarian or equine nutritionist. Hoof Care The cost of hoof care is largely dependent on the condition of the animal’s hoof and the amount of prior hoof care. Costs differ greatly, but can range from a regular trim (average cost of $40) to corrective and specialty shoes that can
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cost thousands of dollars. Training and Demeanor Usually, the level of prior handling and training is unknown and may be limited. It is important to understand one’s own abilities as an owner and handler and to seek out a reputable and knowledgeable trainer when needed. Monthly training (excluding board) can range from a few hundred dollars to over a thousand dollars with the investment lasting months to years. Care should be taken if a horse displays an aggressive or overly fearful demeanor or has a known history of biting, bucking, rearing, bolting, or kicking. Even with extensive training, some horses will not be ridable or safe to be around. Disease The most commonly observed disease in rescued horses is Strangles. If treated quickly, horses can recover from Strangles but costs will skyrocket if an affected horse requires hospitalization. Infectious diseases are the primary reason a 30 day quarantine period is recommended for all incoming horses. When rescuing a horse, keep in mind your long-term goal. If an owner’s goal is to rescue a horse with the intent of allowing it to live out its natural life as a pet or companion, then most horses with a kind demeanor who lack major health issues or who have minor, treatable diseases would be acceptable. If an owner’s goal is to have a ridable horse with the ability to perform, then a sound, trainable, younger horse that is free of major health issues is best. This information is not meant to deter horse owners from rescuing horses, but to better equip them with knowledge of what financial resources are needed to rescue a horse and conditions that can arise.
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THRUSHBUSTING BUSTING THRUSH THRUSH BUSTING Primarily affects the Primarily Primarily affects the Primarily affects affects the the grooves and grooves grooves grooves and and and
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Frequently caused Frequently Frequently caused Frequently caused caused by poor hygene, by byhygene, poor hygene, by poor poor hygene, including standing including including standing standing including standing in dirty, wet, or in in wet, dirty,or in dirty, dirty, wet, orwet, or muddy areas/stalls muddy areas/stalls areas/stalls muddymuddy areas/stalls
Increased susceptibility if: Club feet, Increased Increased susceptibility if: if: feet, Club feet, Increased susceptibility susceptibility if: Club Club feet, under-run/contracted heels, minimal under-run/contracted under-run/contracted heels, minimal minimal under-run/contracted heels,heels, minimal exercise, and improper hoof management exercise, exercise, and and improper hoof hoof management exercise, and improper improper hoof management management
MANAGEMENT TIPS MANAGEMENT MANAGEMENT TIPS TIPS Clean hooves daily
Authored by Dr. Jennie L.Z. Ivey Authored by Dr Authored . Jennie Lby .Z.Dr Ivey . of Jennie L.Z. Ivey University Tennessee Authored by Dr. Jennie L.Z. Ivey University of University Tennessee of Tennessee University of Tennessee
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Clean hooves daily Clean Clean hooveshooves daily daily Provide clean, dry footing/environment Provide Provide dry , dry footing //environment /environment Provide clean clean,, clean dry footing footing environment Regularly trim to balance foot and remove Regularly Regularly trim to balance to balance foot and foot remove and remove Regularly trim totrim balance dead tissue tissue foot and remove dead dead tissue tissue dead tissue tissue tissuetissue Apply an astringent solution containing copper Apply an astringent an astringent solution solution containing containing copper copper Apply Apply an astringent solution containing sulfate or chlorine dioxide to the copper foot if thrush sulfate or chlorine or chlorine dioxide to foot theif thrush if thrush sulfatesulfate chlorine dioxidedioxide to the theto foot iffoot thrush isorpresent is is present is present present Consult a veterinarian if condition worsens Consult Consult a veterinarian if if condition worsens worsens Consult a a veterinarian veterinarian if condition condition worsens
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This work is licensed by a Creative Commons Attribution - Noncommercial-No Derivatives 4.0 International License
This work is licensed Thisby work a Creative is licensed Commons by a Creative Attribution Commons - Noncommercial Attribution - No Noncommercial Derivatives 4.0 -NoInternational Derivatives 4.0 License International License This work is licensed by a Creative Commons Attribution - Noncommercial-No Derivatives 4.0 International License
July 2021
Make The Skin Health of Your Horse a Priority Heidi A. Horses can encounter many skin health issues on a daily basis. Geographical location and seasonal variations have a major influence on the range of possible skin issues. Before diving too deep into skin issues, it is important to understand skin components. The skin is the body’s largest organ, representing 12-24% of the animal’s body weight, depending upon species and age. The skin is composed of five zones: Dermis Supports and nourishes the epidermis. There are cells, fibers and nerve plexuses present in the dermis. Basement Membrane Zone Primary function is to attach and act as a barrier to the epidermis and dermis. Several factors including autoimmune conditions can impact the health of the basement membrane zone. Epidermis Often hair covered and the first barrier of defense. Also composed of multiple layers. The overall health of these layers are influenced by nutrition, hormones, tissue factors, immune cells and genetics. Appendageal System Contains structures that grow with the epidermis such as hair follicles, sebaceous and sweat glands. Hair growth is impacted by many factors including nutrition, hormones and sun-
light. Subcutaneous Muscles & Fat Has many functions such as insulation, shock absorber, and a reservoir for hydration. Skin issues generally fall under five categories: Traumatic skin issue or skin wounds/lacerations often from environmental hazards such as fencing, barn structure, or other objects. Granulomatous skin issue or “proud flesh” can occur when a wound goes untreated or unnoticed following injury. Nodular skin issue or skin associated with seasonal conditions or allergic dermatitis from insects such flies and ticks. Pruritic and alopecic skin issue or contact dermatitis often from plants, irritating chemicals or “Sweet Itch” associated with gnat bites. Other Ectoparasites such as Lice and Mange are contributing factors of this type of skin issue. Nonpruritic and alopecic skin issue or “Rain Scald”/“Rain Rot” from prolonged exposure to environmental conditions is one major factor contributing to this type of skin issue. Because of these various potential skin issues, it is important to include a quality care, management and grooming routine for your horse. Brushes and equipment should be cleaned between horses. If a contagious skin disease is suspected, designate a set of grooming supplies to be used only on the horse with an issue.
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Skin health is affected by many components of nutrition. Proper hydration and access to a quality water source is the cornerstone of skin health. A quality balanced diet rounds out an optimal skin health plan. Diets balanced in essential amino acids, Omega-3 and Omega-6, and vitamins and minerals. A proper farm insect management program starts with cleanliness and prevention. Keeping manure removed or far from horse barn, stalls or paddocks is essential. In a barn environment use fans to help deter flying insects from horse stalls or confined areas. Remove standing water or keep horses further from standing water sources to help reduce insect experiences. During peak insect seasons use of fly bonnets, fly sheets or safe insect repellents. If desired, a feed through fly control product can be incorporated into a full insect control program. Bathing or “cold hosing” the horse’s skin can help with discomfort of skin issues. It is appropriate for horses in exercise to be “bathed” or hosed off after exercise. It is important to scrape/wipe off excess water and properly cool out any horse to avoid additional complications. Care should be taken to not “over bathe” or use harsh shampoo or chemicals on the horses’ skin. Please consult your Veterinarian before administering any medicated or chemical treatments or for additional information on skin diseases and treatments.
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Solving Separation Anxiety in Horses Gina T. It’s always a great consideration to keep your horse with a companion, as it feeds that natural instinct and bond horses experience in the wild. Although ideal, sometimes it’s not realistic. There can be periods of time where your horse will need to cope with being separated from stall mates or companions, and the better prepared they are, the easier the transition. Here are a few tips to better prepare your horse for times of separation: Start Small – Moving your horse’s companion away slowly, can sometimes result in a better transition. Try switching a buddy to another stall and gradually widen that gap of space between the two. Frequency – Keeping a regular routine of separation will help your horse to better adjust. Instead of attempting once a month, try a few times a week. This will
set the stage for the progression of separation. Distraction – If your horse seems extremely bothered by the separation, try distracting him with some feed or hay. Practice other forms of distraction that might ease that anxiety. Stay Calm – Horses are very intuitive and can react based on your emotions, so avoid yelling or raising your voice if your horse displays signs of anxious behavior. Keep it Safe – Make sure while separating your horse from his companion that the environment is safe. Check over a stall for safety or fencing for security. If the anxiety is beyond a level of safety for your horse, consider talking to a professional that can help with varying techniques. Separation anxiety can be stressful for the horse owner and horse alike, but with small, frequent steps, you’re likely to start down the path of stress-free separation.
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We have the smaller farmer’s equipment here.
BUY • SELL • TRADE • AUCTIONS We will buy (1) piece or your whole line of equipment! OH-0001251407
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8 to 5 M-F, 8-Noon Sat.
It’s easy to overlook simple horse trailer maintenance, but investing a small amount is crucial to ensure the safety of your equine friends. Michigan State University
Horse Trailer Safety
Taylor Fabus and Warren Van Overbeke EAST LANSING, MI. — Have you ever just backed up to your horse trailer, attached it to your truck, loaded your horses and drove on down the road without another thought? Well, I hate to admit it, but I have. Time and experience have taught me that is not the best course of action. Sure, it is easiest to just hook up your rig and head down the road. Who wants to take the time to check the tires, look at the frame and floorboards, make sure the hitch operates correctly, the lights work and the doors latch the way they should? Although that seems like a daunting list of things to maintain, if you slow down just a bit, you can allow yourself the opportunity to more regularly check these important issues without much inconvenience or time spent. Regular preventative maintenance for your trailer should be a part of a monthly or prior-touse routine. Trailers, just like vehicles, are prone to breakdown. Consistent use and extended lack of use can cause a trailer to need repair. It is the operator’s responsibility to ensure the trailer is roadworthy. The Equestrian Group, an insurance agency who insure us when stuff goes really wrong, recommends regular and annual maintenance checks, and have assembled the following checklist in an effort to keep us on the road and out of trouble. Regular maintenance consists of the following. This check should occur each time before you tow. Tires and wheels • Check the tire pressures and thread depth.
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• Check the condition of the tires. Include the rear tires of the towing vehicle in your inspection. • Make sure you are carrying a spare tire that it is roadworthy. • Make sure lug nuts are tight on all wheels. Floorboards • Check the floorboards for any rot or general weakness. • Ensure drainage holes are unblocked in order to lengthen the life of a trailer floor. Lift the rubber mats after use and sweep or hose out the floor. Make sure the floor is completely dry before replacing any mats as this may cause rotting. Inside the trailer • Check carefully for any loose or protruding screws bolts and nails inside the trailer. • Look for bees or wasps or any other undesired animals that need to be removed. • Check the partitions and all locks and bolts. Outside the trailer • Safety chains: Make sure chains are crossed and hooked to vehicle frame—not the bumper. • Hitch: Look for loose bolts, hairline cracks and other signs of wear. Check for proper hookup. (In conventional trailers, the socket should be seated on the ball and locked in place.) • Check that all lights are in full working order including the marker, tail, brake, indicator and interior lights. • Check that jacks and safety triangles or reflectors are in good working order in case of a breakdown. Annual maintenance checks can be just as,
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if not more, important as regular maintenance checks. Annual checks go further in-depth and look for items you may not easily see. The following is a list of annual maintenance checks provided by the Equestrian Group. Annual maintenance checks • Check the brake pads and brake discs for wear and adjust or replace as necessary. Do this on your truck as well as your trailer. • Inspect the frame of the trailer for cracks. • Inspect all wires for loose connections or frayed coverings. • Repair or replace any rotted or rusted metal. • Grease all hinges, springs, ball hitch, etc. • Check the trailer ramp (if you have one) and its hinges for any weaknesses or cracks. • Wheels should be pulled and bearings checked and, if necessary, repacked. • Check the floor for any rotting or major weakness, which may need repairing. If it is an aluminum floor, check for any large dents or corrosion. • Check all the internal and external lights Note: If at any time you are unsure of the trailer’s condition or how to make a repair, seek the assistance of a trained mechanic in your area. In the end, a little extra attention to your trailer yearly and prior to departing home may be the difference between a great day of riding the trails and an unfortunate day sitting on the side of the interstate. These things happen, but with good preventative maintenance you will be prepared for nearly anything the road may throw your way.
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