Horse Trading June 2014

H O R S E Issue no. 252

TRADING

DISTRIBUTED BY

NOW IN SA

‘15

June

Your Free Copy

WINTER WELLBEING

Keeping you cool under pressure

A F R I C A’ S M O S T L O V E D E Q U E S T R I A N P U B L I C A T I O N S I N C E 1 9 9 2

™

Gauteng’s leading supplier of quality animal feeds

WHERE WE LEAD, OTHERS FOLLOW Now situated at 63 Karee Rd, Blue Hills, Kyalami UNBEATABLE PRICES ON THESE BRANDED PRODUCTS: Midfeeds Midfeeds Epol

Equus Alzu Royal Spurwing

12% Cubes 12% Meal 12% Rider Pellets 12% Rider Meal 12% Cool Cubes Train ‘n Leisure 12% Maize Free Meal Riding meal/cubes Maintenance meal 11%

(40Kgs) (40kgs) (40Kg’s) (40Kg’s) (40Kg’s) (40kg’s) (40Kg’s) (40kg’s) (40Kg’s)

R176.00 R180.00 R175.50 R175.50 R175.50 R170.00 R171.00 R182.00 R215.00

CASH & COLLECT – INCLUDES VAT

Midfeeds and Tack ’n Togs now open in Nelspruit – (013)752 7432.

Find us at 36 Waterfall St, Riverside Industrial Park, Nelspruit

SPECIAL FOR JUNE

Nutritional Advice Line (011)468 1834 VoerDokter Diatoms Livestock concentrate is a natural antiparasitic feed supplement which when fed to horses and ponies can improve their general health. Scientific literature has shown that feeding diatoms can also improve bone structure due to the Amorphous Silica which it contains. Diatoms can assist in the control of both internal and external parasites and it was recently proven that it can reduce fly populations around horses by preventing fly larvae from hatching from manure.

For more information on the use of Diatoms in your horse’s diet, contact one of our in house nutritional advisors.

Marquerite Oberholzer Bsc (Agric) Animal Science midfeedsbuy@mweb.co.za

Janine de Swardt Bsc (Agric) Animal Science buyer@midfeeds.co.za

Diatoms Livestock 10kg R99.00 incl Diatoms Rolling mat 25kg R139.00 incl Cash and Collect only

Tel: (011)468 1824/34; (011)024 3270; 082 650 1877 Fax: (011) 252 5072

●

midfeedspty@mweb.co.za

●

Recognised agents for:

Emergency: 082 499 8684

Amigo Competit

ion Sheet

Amigo Insulator

Amigo Foal Rug Bring in yo ur old winter horse blankets fo r Highveld Horse Care and receive R2 50 off a new Amig o Insulator

Rambo Block Net Cooler

Tel:(011)468-1824 or 0861 midfeeds Emergency: 082 499 8684, Fax:(011)252 5072 E-mail: midfeedspty@mweb.co.za Address: 63 Karee Rd, corner Main Rd, Blue Hills, Kyalami.

PURVEYORS OF THE EQUESTRIAN LIFESTYLE

www.tackntogs.co.za

Our sad mare was overjoyed and immediately adopted Biscuit with much squealing and excitement. The combination of rolling pasture in Linbro, and six weeks rest during horse sickness jabs, turned Biscuit the meek into Biscuit the bronco. The ground did something horrid to the shoulder I landed on. I wondered whether it was such a good idea to have signed up for training a youngster.

I glared into those melty brown eyes and said, “Who is going to buy you, you little rat? You are ugly, rude, and barely ridable?” Then I felt bad. Biscuit had had a rough start to her life. Perhaps we might yet save her.

So with a combination of dear friends’ help, resources I found through Horse Trading, and sheer love, I did what I had been unable to do as teen, train a green horse.

FROM THE EDITOR This is what Horse Trading is made of, great people with wonderful stories. Thank you Michelle for getting in touch and for your heart felt letter. We couldn’t agree more, we’d love to hear from more of our readers. Horse Trading is always grateful for the insight and input from all our readers.

Keep in touch, Mike Quo vadis Horse trading?

I never set out to buy my own horse. My mid life crisis arrived as little thrills when I saw those sleek lines, that power. It was not a sports car that rocked my socks. I found myself gazing into beautiful brown eyes and stroking strong shoulders. And no, it was not a new lover. It was Equus – the horse - the love of my life as a child and teen, and now resurfacing.

They do say mid life is like being a teen all over again.

There was no way that a free lance journalist’s budget would make that mink and manure sport a budgetary possibility. But after a stint exercising the South African Police horses, I made some excellent friends in Linbro Park who had horses but no time to ride them. I spent many happy years exercising various gorgeous equids.

One day, ‘my’ beautiful 25-year-old part Arab mare contracted fatal colic. Her 30-year-old mother was bereft. I told my friend that the old mare needed a companion urgently. We searched for a horse to borrow but that did not work out.

That’s it, I thought. Time to consult my favourite horse mag to see if I could buy a horse as companion for our grief crazed mare.

Horse Trading has always been my favourite read. Back then, it was printed on plain paper in black and white , fat and full of small ads featuring horses for sale. I used to snaffle it from my friends, or grab my own copy if I happened to go to Merwitz for equipment. The sale horses ranged from the R100 000 A grade show jumpers to R2 500 for a five-year-old that had just been backed.

At R2 500, even I could afford to buy a horse.

Armed with Horse Trading I traveled to a plot in Kempton Park between the factories. A handful of horses was grazing amongst piles of scrap metal. Most had been rescued off a truck bound for the abattoir. One of them was Biscuit; a skinny, 13-hand Nooitgedachter, meek and hangdog. She wasn’t even my first choice, but sailed through her vetting. Before I knew it she was being boxed out to Linbro Park.

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Biscuit has turned into a fun-loving hack and the bucking has found expression in leaping over logs. She recently confided to a horse whisperer that she has “landed in heaven”. And she gets compliments these days on her new condition, muscles from working properly and (slightly) better manners.

A few days ago, I was picking up Biscuit’s feed at Groenvoer when I spotted a very glossy looking Horse Trading. I couldn’t wait to browse the horses and services for sale ads.

But where the heck were they?

Annoyed I called Mike O’Brien, the new owner. I told him he had lost the unique selling proposition of this magazine; the hundreds of useful ads. He lamented the general state of the economy but said he had no objection to the ads and encouraged readers to send them in.

So c’mon you guys, mail bomb him with those fab ads that used to be the absolute heart and soul of this 22-year-old publication. After all, how many more Biscuits are out there, looking for a good home?

Michelle Nel -Environmental journalist and horse lover

GET IN TOUCH E / ads@horsetrading.co.za OR studio@horsetrading.co.za Last dates for ad publication are PRINT DEADLINES WE ACCEPT ADS ALL DAY EVERY DAY!!!

Ads will go onto the website & appear in the first available edition.

CONTRIBUTORS HORSE TRADING Editor / Liz - editor@obriendesign.co.za graphic designers / Mike O’Brien - mike@obriendesign.co.za Lindy Augustyn - designer@obriendesign.co.za Chantel Heydenrych - ads@horsetrading.co.za BANKING DETAILS / Horse Trading / FNB / Account No 62473634220 / Branch Code: 250741 NO Cash deposits!

Kindly do an internet transfer, or email for assistance.

Cash deposits into bank account will be held until the bank charges are paid - R18.50 per R100 – deposited.

Copyright / Horse Trading is published monthly by Horse Trading Publications.

All rights reserved. Reproduction of any material, in part or whole, is expressly forbidden without written permission of the publisher.

www.horsetrading.co.za

Brands Distributed by

Contact Shez at Equestrian Diva Couture | 082 373 6149 or 011 468 3717 | shez@equestriandivacouture.co.za www.equestriandivacouture.co.za | www.facebook.co.za/equestriandivacouture

WHY ARE OUR ANIMALS ITCHING SO MUCH?

C

ould it be due to the large amounts of preservatives & colourants (required by SA Dept of Agriculture law) in ALL animal feeds? – Imported brands also have to conform to our Laws.

Are we treating the symptoms rather than the cause of most animal skin ailments?

Cortisone as we all know is not a viable long term solution. Creams, shampoos and such, mostly offer only temporary relief.

Are you supplementing your animal’s food with oil, attempting to ease dry skin?

8

Practically all oils contain protein, an allergy can ONLY attach to a protein.

One of the very few oils that contain no protein is Canola oil, which also contains a very low count of saturated fats, but has the correct ratio of Omega 3 & 6 (5 parts of Omega 3 to 1 part of Omega 6), large amounts of vitamins A, D & E as well as several Anti Oxidants vital in promoting healthy skins & coats.

‘Natural’ in my opinion is always a worthwhile cost effective option, Rooibos and Chamomile are both proven herbs which have many properties to not only improve current skin conditions, but are widely used to promote healthy skin and coats.

Now the onus is on YOU the animal owner, to read product labels and make informed choices of what to feed and supplement your animals with.

The above facts are based on the published articles of the American Oil Chemist’s Ass, Health Canada & Purdue University- Plant Products, approved by the U.S Food & Drug Administration.

Written by: Lesley Delaney CEO – Promix Animal Supplements www.promixsupplements.com

www.horsetrading.co.za

POLO polo.co.za (+27) 011- 258 -7600

The best riding country in the heart of Kyalami Quality professionally managed stabling Excellent dressage and show jumping arenas Large selection of cross country jumps Modern clubhouse and change rooms Daily outrides in secure riding country

INANDA

COUNTRY BASE

Contact us now

T: 011 464 5343 | M: 082 567 5747 | Email: icb@inandaclub.co.za

SARDA Gauteng Fundraising Golf Day 5th June 2015

Play golf with us for ONE day, so that a handicapped child can ride with us for another YEAR! The South African Riding for the Disabled Association (SARDA) Gauteng invites our valued community and corporate members to join us, as we spend the day at the first-class Ruimsig Country Club.

FOUR BALL ALLIANCE (Two scores to count) R2500 - Includes green fees and prize giving dinner, but EXCLUDES golf carts and halfway house HOLE SPONSORSHIP R1500 per hole PACKAGE DEAL (Hole Sponsorship plus one Four Ball entry) R 3 500-00 For further information and bookings contact us: SARDA 011 958 5044 or email sarda@earthcentre.org.za

F E AT U R E

What the hoof

Y

our horse needs regular hoof care and farrier visits for his health and soundness. Ninety percent of front-end lameness in horses occurs in the foot due to hoof-related issues. As an owner you need to be able to recognise hoof ailments and lameness.

A loose shoe

If your horse wears shoes, it’s not uncommon for one to go missing at some point in time. Whether it gets stuck in mud, twists off or pulled off with his back hoof. In some cases when a shoe falls off it can take a chunk out of the healthy hoof. When a shoe comes loose it’s important to act quickly to protect the hoof from further injury and breakage.

Abscesses

One of the most common causes of sudden-onset lameness in horses is an abscess. A hoof abscess is a bacterial infection that invades the hoof in an area called the lamina.

The lamina consists of hard and soft sections. The bottom or soul of the hoof is called the solar surface. Usually bacteria cultivates at the solar surface under the hard lamina. This provides the perfect environment – warm and moist – to grow. As pus develops, it starts to cause pressure and tenderness www.horsetrading.co.za

within the hoof. Over time the inflammation increases the pain to the hoof as well as the lower leg which results in lameness.

To prevent abscesses keep the hoof dry, clean and well-trimmed. This means picking hooves daily and ensuring that bedding is kept as clean as possible. Regular trimming keeps the sole from trapping debris under itself.

Treating an abscess is relatively easy.

The goal is to flush out the infection and keep the infected area clean.

The hoof is then usually soaked in a warm Epsom salts solution to help draw out the bacteria. Occasionally oral, intramuscular, intravenous or topical antibiotics are used.

Thin Soles

Trimming the sole too thin is one of the quickest ways to make a horse go lame. The first indication of this condition is shortening of your horse’s stride and his reluctance to ride over stony terrain. More often than not, a horse will veer to the grass verge.

This condition can have serious consequences over the long term.

Riding a horse with thin soles will inflame the sensitive tissue adjacent to the coffin bone. This will result in

the inflammation of the coffin bone and a demineralization of the bone will ensue. The most successful approach to reducing the risk of hoof thinning is traditional shoeing along with a paddock complemented with sole supporting material such as pea gravel.

Thrush

Thrush is a bacterial infection that primarily affects the sulci. In most cases, thrush will not cause significant pain, but if left untreated it can cause sensitivity in the heel and ultimately lead to lameness.

Thrush thrives in a wet, dirty environment. Horses kept in a muddy paddock or left to stand in a dirty stall are especially at risk for developing thrush. The bacteria eats away at the hoof tissue, causing the foul smelling black discharge.

In most cases thrush can be treated quickly and easily by applying a commercial thrush medication.

Picking your horses feet regularly, keeping your stalls and paddocks clean and making sure that your horse has somewhere dry to stand in the pasture during wet months are the keys to prevention.

11

SINCE 1970

WE DRAW ON OUR MANY YEARS OF EXPERIENCE,

AND MOST IMPORTANTLY ON WHAT OUR CUSTOMERS ASK FOR

14

www.horsetrading.co.za

Transition your horse from summer into winter As the winter months roll in and seasonal changes kick in there are a number of factors that one has to adjust in order to effortlessly transition your horse to ensure it stays healthy all season long. Maintaining a healthy nutritional balance and health of your horse can be a challenge in the frigid months. Here are tips to make the transition as seamless as possible.

Watch those calories

So the lush pasture is drying up and now is the time to supplement your horses’ diet by adding more roughage.

In the winter months the grass composition changes, nutritional content decreases and offers less energy. For horses that spend more time out in the pastures their guts naturally adjust to the changes in the grass. However, when stabling horses, one has to make change in your horses’ diet from meadow to stable gradually. Optimally you want to allow your horse three weeks to adapt to a new diet. An abrupt change in diet can therefore result in a disturbance of the bacterial flora in the gut such as colic and laminitis.

Keep Hydrated

Winter feeds which typically include more hay and grain contain far less moisture. So it’s important to monitor your horses’ feed intake and moisture levels for a healthy gut and reduce colic and to maintain its energy levels.

Cooling down correctly

Efforts should be made to exercise as often as possible to reduce the risk of a lower leg Edema. Cooling a horse after exercise in winter needs a little

16

extra attention. Winter coats can become wet and reduce insulation and cause cold stress. You can cover your horse with a moisture-wicking sweat sheet to increase insulation, but remember to remove the sweat sheet and begin toweling.

A really thick coat may be difficult to dry during the winter. And, if your horse wears a blanket normally when turned out, it may be very uncomfortable for it if a blanket it put on before the horse is thoroughly dry.

Creating air-flow between the coat and the blanket to ensure effective drying is important. A common method to encourage airflow and keeping the horse dry is packing hay under the blanket. The hay does fall out over time but it’s important to check that all of the hay has fallen out and not rubbing your horse.

Blanketing

Opinions vary with regards to blanketing but research has been conducted on the benefits of blanketing a horse to reduce the effects of cold weather. Blanketing a horse can reduce the effects of cold or inclement weather. It is imperative the blanket fits properly to reduce marks or sores.

Hoof Care

Hoof care may not leap immediately to mind in winter. Typically, horses work less in the winter, graze less, spend more time in stalls eating hay, burn calories to keep warm and so on. As a result hoof growth typically slows in the winter. Thrush is a concern in winter as the moisture in winter ground can simply feed a chronic thrush problem or create a new one. The first step to healing thrush is removing as much affected tissue as possible, followed by killing the organism with any one of many products designed for the job and, finally, altering the horse’s footing where possible to keep his feet consistently drier.

For the most part, horses stay fairly comfortable in winter when their caretakers are on alert and prepared for the challenges of the season.

Keep an eye on them in winter and continue your regular care and your horses will make it through to spring happy and healthy.

www.horsetrading.co.za

EVENTS CALENDAR

Month

Event

Venue

June

5-7

FOURWAYS 21ST BIRTHDAY CELEBRATION

Fourways Riding Centre CC

June

5-7

Fourways National Challenge Showjumping All Grades All Ages

Fourways Riding Centre

June

6

Badplaas Showjumping Show

Highveld Equestrian Centre

June

6&7

Pony Rider Selection Show,Adults, Jun Family 6,7 June Maple Ridge

Maple Ridge Equestrian Farm

June

6&7

CVRC jumping show

Constantia Valley

June

12-15

The 2015 Fei Nissan Winter Classic Provincial Adult, Junior And Pony Riders

Foresyte Shows

June

12-16

The 2015 Fei Nissan Winter Classic Open Adult, Junior And Pony Riders

Foresyte Shows

June

13 & 14

Showing Show & Equitation Graded And Training

Fourways Riding Centre

June

15

Nottinghill Estates Equestrian and Wine festival

Nottinghill Equestrian Centre

June

19-12

Winter Show

Port Elizabeth Riding Club

June

19-21

Sa Warmblood Horse Society Breed Show

Mistico Equestrian Centre

June

20 & 21

Eventing Classics All Ages 70Cm – 1*

Fourways Riding Centre

June

20 & 21

Show Jumping Show for PONY RIDER, JUNIOR & ADULT Riders

CRUISA

June

23

Dressage Ride & Go For Dsa

Fourways Riding Centre

June

27 & 28

Young Horse Performance Series 5Yrs 6Yrs & 7 Year Olds

Fourways Riding Centre

June

27 & 28

Noordhoek June Jumping

Noordhoek Riding Club

June/July June

18

Day

29Jun-5Jul The 2015 Pony Rider National Equestrian Championships of South Africa 20 & 21

Graded Dressage Show

Royal Riding Club Mistico Equestrian Centre

www.horsetrading.co.za

The National Horse Trust in

asino oyale

proud association with MIX FM presents the NHT Annual Race Day When:

Saturday 22 August 2015

Where:

Aquanaut Room, Turffontein Racecourse

Time:

12 Noon

Menu:

007 Cavalier

Attire:

Casino wear

SPACE IS LIMITED, SO BOOK NOW!

R700.00 per head or R6500.00 per table of 10 Name the Race: R11 000.00 Name the Race and Table of 10: R14 000 Auction:

RUSSIAN GRASS Save money on Horse food this winter, by planting our

EVERGREEN FAST GROWING RUSSIAN GRASS for more information contact Merwe 0726045219 or visit our website www.russiangrass.co.za

Join us for an awesome day of spectacular racing and fun.

For bookings contact: Suzanne on 082 054 4464 or suzi.dery@gmail.com or alternatively you can book directly with the National Horse Trust on 011 683 4388 or nationalhorsetrust@mweb.co.za All proceeds benefit the National Horse Trust and the units they support nationally.

Heavy-Duty Horse Feed-Bins in Small, Medium and Large

SMALL FEEDBIN R104-00 ex VAT MEDIUM FEEDBIN R146-00 ex VAT LARGE FEEDBIN R245-00 ex VAT 25L ROUND horse water bucket R149-00 ex VAT Collect from us in Randburg.

We also supply a wide range of water troughs, from 4 litre up to 190 litre, and a BIG range of Steel Stable Racks !

Please visit our website to see our full range of Horsecare products. www.shawsonplastics.co.za Tel: 011 792 1916 | Fax: 086 693 1589 | Cell: 082 414 7864 Email: rodneytrubshaw@fastmail.fm Address: Shawson Plastics, corner of tungsten and wakis avenue, strijdom park , Randburg.

The pathway to pain relief.

Back on Track manufacture muscle and joint braces as well as functional clothing and other products for horses and dogs in our unique ceramic infused fabric, Welltex.

Welltex reflects the wearers own body warmth as infrared heat - an energy form that increases well being with many positive effects such as reduced muscle tension and increased blood circulation, which speeds up, among other things, rehabilitation of muscles and reduction of inflammation.

No w avai l abl e i n S o u th A fri ca

www.backontracksa.co.za Jayne

• • • • • •

e:

info@backontracksa.co.za

c:

0824508923

Lessons - beginners to advanced FEI Level 2 qualified instructor Excellent Horses and ponies to bait Outstanding outrides Pony camp (December 2014) Limited stabling available 20 Minutes from Fourways or Honeydew

We offer professional stabling on our 27ha farm in Pretoria East.

We can also help with Schooling/training of green horses and riding lessons for young beginner riders.

For more info contact 079 41 383 58 or email us at: info@farm-waidmannsruh.co.za.

WENDY: 072 896 5166 wendy@heritageequestrian.co.za

ARAGON STABLES Promix ANTI ITCH Coat enhancer Omega oil Contains ‘cold pressed’ Canola oil with added Rooibos & Chamomile + all the required Omega 3 & 6 To target the cause and not just the symptoms. xxx 500ml – R125 xxx 1Lt – R200 xxx 5Lt – R720 xxx Go to www.promixsupplements.com for information on all Promix proven products or Contact Lesley: 083 726 7152/promixsupplements@gmail.com w w w . p r o m i x s u p p l e m e n t s . c o m

TOP QUALITY STABLING Riding lessons for beginners to advanced SUCCESS AT GRADED AND INTER-SCHOOL SHOWS SCHOOL PONIES AND HORSES Baiting options available www.aragonstables.co.za | jennyf@aragonstables.co.za | 082 666 3728

GET THE BEST FOR YOUR HORSES

Craig Beijl:

www.housabout.co.za

C 083 300 8432

F 086 687 7348

E craig@housabout.co.za

Servicing our customers for over 37 years

The old days

Suppliers of Animal Feed, Fodder & Bedding Milmac Produce Supply was founded thirty seven years ago by Meryl McConnochie who initially identified the need to supply a transport service for horse feed. The company began with a small truck and a driver, which delivered horse feed to surrounding horse owners.

In 2000, Debbie Copeman, purchased Milmac and during the last 15 years, has expanded the business dramatically by introducing a completely customer orientated approach through her unique style of sales and marketing which encompasses every product needed to run a successful yard, being delivered and packed directly into your feed room.

Now Milmac is a huge family and employs over 65 people running 15 delivery vehicles daily. Administration is mainly “Women Driven”, with a team of 10 “Milmac Girls” and two “Milmac Guys” who often have to endure a torrid time from all the girls in the office!

“Service is our business, we just happen to sell animal produce”

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www.horsetrading.co.za

F E AT U R E

Milmac 1-stop shopping Milmac proudly feeds animals in all shapes and sizes, from horses to mice and everything in between! We are agents for all the premiere feed manufacturers in South Africa and we launched our own brand of Milmac horse feed in 2005, which provides quality and nutrition at an affordable price.

Milmac offers a wide selection of roughage, that being, Eragrostis, Teff, Lucerne and Oat Hay. We also carry a varied range of shavings to suit all your needs.

MILMAC’S product range includes all leading brands of dog and cat feeds, such as Pedigree, Jock and Montego, as well as a wide variety of poultry, cattle, game, bird and fish food supplied by various feed manufacturers including Schmidt Feeds and Seeds. Milmac also has a large range of feed additives and supplements.

We have our own in-house Animal Scientist – Pamela holds her degree in B.Sc. (AGRIC): Animal Science and is able to give professional guidance and advice to customers on all their animals’ nutritional needs.

New Stuff Visit our country shop in Chartwell and see our wonderful Pegasus handmade show shirts and jackets as well as our new range of Tally Ho products. We stock equestrian clothing and tack too!

Milmac delivers all over Gauteng daily and your order will be delivered within 24 hours after payment.

“This is Milmac Country”

The big debate: To vaccinate or not?

What shots should you consider?

V

accinations are truly one of medicine’s greatest triumphs. Getting the right vaccinations for your horse is one of the single most important things you can do for his lifelong health. However, which shots you should give to your horse is an ongoing debate. Veterinarians are of the opinion that vaccinations are a vital part of any equine health program.

Tetanus

More isn’t necessarily better when it comes to vaccinating your horse. It’s important to strike the right balance to avoid over-stimulating the immune system and triggering nasty side effects.

Some caretakers believe over-vaccination is one of the most common triggers for chronic diseases such as laminitis and uveitis, and contributes to allergic conditions and colic. However, there are no legitimate studies that link vaccination to diseases related to an over-stimulated immune system such as allergies or skin disease.

Rabies

Vaccines have been proven to reduce, not eliminate, the risk of disease. Vaccines work by priming the immune system against specific viruses, bacteria and other disease-causing organisms.

Your horse needs the right vaccinations at the right time to be protected from disease. Here is a vaccination program you should consider:

African Horse Sickness

African horse sickness is a highly infectious noncontagious, vector born viral disease with a mortality rate between 70-90%.

24

Tetanus is caused by a toxin produced by bacteria which are present in the soil and the intestinal tract of animals. The bacteria gain entrance to the body through wounds, lacerations or the umbilicus of new born foals. Symptoms will include: muscle stiffness, flared nostrils, hypersensitivity, locking of the jaw and death.

Rabies is caused by a virus transmitted by the bite of infected carnivores. It is very common in Kwazulu Natal and is sometimes seen during outbreaks in other parts of the country. Rabies can be transmitted from animals to man and in the horse the clinical signs may include nervous signs varying from a frenzy to inability to swallow and paralysis.

Equine Influenza

Equine influenza virus is one of the most contagious virus groups in the horse. It can be spread in a stable over a matter of a few days and will result in signs of a cold: dry hacking cough, nasal discharge, fever, depression and in appetence.

Botulism

Botulism is caused by a toxin produced by a certain type of bacteria. The bacteria are usually associated with organic material like rat carcasses among feed.

Rotavirus

Rotavirus is a major cause of foal diarrhea.

Vaccinating pregnant mares helps protect their foals.

Other horses don’t need this shot, and no evidence shows that vaccinating newborn foals has benefits.

www.horsetrading.co.za

F E AT U R E

African Horse Sickness According to the African Horse Sickness Trust, there has been 21 reported cases of African Horse Sickness thus far for the 2014/15 season.

What is African horse sickness?

African horse sickness (AHS) is a highly infectious non-contagious, vector born viral disease affecting all species of Equidae including horses, mules, donkeys and even zebra. It is endemic to the African continent.

How do horses contract the disease?

Whether you decide to vaccinate or not you should consider a number of factors and common sense must prevail. Location will determine which vaccines you need to give your horse as some diseases are widespread, some regional and some local.

If your horse travels extensively to shows and other venues and encounters other horses then you need protection against contagious horse to horse diseases. Horses can carry some diseases without showing symptoms, shedding bacteria and viruses, and infecting others. And lastly if your horse is under the age of 5 they are more susceptible to deadly diseases such as equine herpesvirus and West Nile virus.

The best course is to review your horse’s vaccination program with your vet annually to ensure it fits his current needs. The take-home message? Ask the right questions. Be informed. Most veterinarians agree that even if the risk of a particular disease is moderate to low, but the consequence of the disease is deadly, you should vaccinate as long as the vaccine is safe and efficacious. If the risk of a disease is moderate to low, disease mortality rate is low then you probably won’t vaccinate unless risk increases.

AHS does not spread directly from one horse to another, but is transmitted by the Culicoides midge, which becomes infected when feeding on other infected equidae. It occurs mostly in the warm, rainy season when midges are plentiful, and disappears after frost, when the midges die. Most animals become infected in the period associated with sunset and sunrise, when the midges are most active.

Symptoms

The disease manifests in three ways, namely the lung form, the heart form and the mixed form. The lung (dunkop) form symptoms include: very high fever up to 41 degrees. difficulty in breathing, with mouth open and head hanging down. frothy discharge may pour from the nose.

The heart (dikkop) form symptoms include: fever, followed by swelling of the head and eyes. in severe cases, the entire head swells . loss of ability to swallow and possible colic symptoms may occur.

Diagnosis

This diagnosis can only be confirmed by identifying the virus in a laboratory. It is, therefore, essential that blood samples be taken from the horse during the fever stage of the disease for analysis. As AHS is a controlled disease, horse owners are obliged by law to notify the local State Veterinarian of suspected cases.

Note: Excerpts taken from Onderstepoort Biological Products leaflet.

www.horsetrading.co.za

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How do we test the impact resistance of a surface?

The Clegg Impact Tester is a professional instrument used to determine hardness on all types of areas from: Arenas, Horse Racing, Turf Racing, Football, Soccer, Natural Grass, Artificial Turf, and all types of sports where surface resistance is important for safety and performance.

...because so much is riding on it!

General readings done on synthetic, grass and sand surfaces

MARTIN COLLINS, MARTIN COLLINS Logo and POLYTRACK, ECOTRACK AND ACTIV-TRACK are registered trademarks.

Points to consider on surface firmness: Is the arena hard and rigid or does it offer shock absorption?

This is determined by the impact firmness and cushioning.

Does the surface offer the horse good traction and grip but also help to absorb the braking force when the hoof first hits the ground?

This is determined by the grip and impact firmness.

Does the whole arena offer the same properties?

This is determined by the uniformity.

Grass: 80 - 100 Gmax

Fibre: 80 -100 Gmax

Sand: 150 - 350 Gmax

Wax: 80 - 100 Gmax

Soft going: 50 Gmax Optimum training going: 70 - 90 Gmax Firm going: 100 Gmax Optimum competition going: 90 - 100 Gmax Anything over 150 Gmax is hard

When a horse lands on a surface, for example, after jumping a fence, the impact with the surface is at high speed and there is a large amount of weight loading the limb. Therefore the horse will “feel” characteristics deeper down in the surface compared to a human who tries to “test” the surface by jumping up and down in the same spot. For humans with their lighter weight it is easier to determine characteristics of the top layer only.

The maximum load on a front leg during the support phase at a gallop has been estimated at 2.5 times the horse’s body weight. This corresponds to 15 kilo newton (equivalent to 1500 kilograms of weight).

The Clegg Impact Tester is a professional instrument to determine hardness on all types of areas.

Readings in CIT's or Gravities (Gmax).

Martin Collins test all our surfaces to ensure they perform within specified ranges.

Enquiries : +27 11 028 4890 info@mcsa.za.com

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Megan

079 497 7825 | Email: ronellegilbert@gmail.com

Manor D’or Exclusive Equine Management | 164 Pommel Rd | Bridle Park | Kyalami

F E AT U R E

BIT SEATS IN EQUINE DENTISTRY Written by Steven Clark EqDT, IAED/CA

A

s a follow on from my previous articles I would like to re-iterate an important part of correct equine dentistry. This is the process of creating “bit seats”. There can be numerous teeth related issues in a horses mouth which, if not examined properly can go undetected for many years and ultimately result in pain for the horse.

Most horses have very high pain thresholds and they don’t often show obvious signs of their dental problems until it becomes a major problem or extreme behavioral problems are observed, ie. Shaking their heads when being ridden etc.

Equine professionals have been recommending “bit seats” as far back as when horses were our main means of transport and farm labour although it is not well acknowledged within the equestrian world of riding and competing today.

Figure 2

The dotted lines on the cheek indicate the tooth that has been removed for bit seats

Figure 1

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The following is an example of why bit seats are beneficial to the horse and owner whether the horse is ridden or not. Any sharp points that develop in horses are uncomfortable when either the cheeks, lips or tongue come into contact with them.

First the procedure would involve reducing any malalignment on the 1st cheek teeth (1st pre-molars), such as hooks or ramps and the extraction of wolf teeth will take place which will affect the bit seat. The type of bit seat may vary but the basic principle is to round the corners and the rostral

(front) aspect of the 1st upper and lower cheek teeth (fig.1.) creating a comfortable area for the bit to sit in where soft flesh can no longer get pinched and cut by the bit.

Tongue relief:- relieving caudal pressure on the tongue improves airflow by relieving the palatal drape, (soft palate) which then lets the epiglottis remain forward keeping the airway open. Lower bar relief, cheek comfort, palate comfort and improved performance are just a few benefits to aid your horses comfort and well being. When excessive pressure is exerted on the mouth in an effort to stop the horse, collect or get your horse “on the bit”, you will find the bit comes up against the pointed portion of the upper and lower pre-molars sliding downwards and backwards creating pressure on the tongue. This may cause pain related symptoms such as opening the mouth, crossing the jaw and shaking the head and hinder their performance.

The third reason is to create an accessible path for long stemmed grass to enter the mouth and to start the mastication process at the first cheek teeth, unobstructed by ramps or hooks that restrict the flow of grass into the mouth. The mouth will also be more comfortable when eating. Performance floating and installing bit seats can improve on fibre digestibility, which was shown in a study conducted in 2001. This is why I install bit seats on all horses I work with, even brood mares and non riding horses. www.horsetrading.co.za

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JUMPS FOR JOY COLBY RIDING CENTRE Stable yard in BENONI area. 24hr care for your horse. Three meals a day and grass at lib. Well trained grooms. Tuition in Showjumping and Dressage. Stabling is available. Contact Sandra Colby 061 704 9400.

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Uprights - 1.8m R 240 ea.

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Small private yard in Farmall area. Barn stables and 60x40 riversand arena. Own vet and instructor welcome. Each horse cared for like our own.

Sam 083 402 0350

HORSE FOR LEASE

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Fabulous old lady with a lot of spirit, looking for a regular rider to keep her fit and healthy. She is a wonderful schoolmaster who would suit a beginner/ novice rider wanting to improve their riding. Ideally suited for someone moving up from riding school ponies or wanting to get back into riding. She is a fabulous teacher with beautiful comfortable movement and an honest jump. Easy going and forgiving. Situated at a friendly yard in Knoppieslaagte, which is between Mnandi and Bridlepass (Centurion/ Midrand). Please contact Andrea 083 399 8485

Busy childrens riding school near Fourways in JHB are looking for a full time, enthusiastic, hard working individual to manage a great team and instruct. Good package, includes cottage. Very good working hours, happy staff, ponies and clients. Applicant must be have done some competing and teaching. Email cv to cstables@netactive.co.za or

Solo Saddlers is looking for enthusiastic intelligent staff to help our company grow 3 positions available: 1. Sales person to help customers, answer email queries and answer the telephone.

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HORSES FOR SALE SARDINE RUN, 11 yr old, 16H Bay THB Gelding, This is a very good looking boy with wonderful paces and a rocking horse canter that is an absolute dream. He has very good basics in place and will make a wonderful horse for a junior or adult wanting to participate and excel in dressage and showing. He is good in the stable, boxes well and stands for the farrier. Urgent sale as current owner has gone to boarding school and can no longer ride him. R15 000 neg. to the right home. Based in centurion. Call Karen on 083 453 9727

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