Equine Special Edition February 27, 2015

Page 1

Special feature of The Wellington Advertiser February 27, 2015

EQUINE

The McNairs: Father-son duo races to success

PAGE 2 | EQUINE

Lameness detection tool for horse owners GUELPH - When to Call the Vet is one of five major topics in Equine Guelph’s free, interactive, Lameness Lab tool, sponsored by Zoetis. Learning to spot unsoundness is an important skill for horse owners to develop because the earlier lameness is detected, the better owners will be at maintaining the

lier as well as guide them in knowing when to call their veterinarian.� Dr. Ken Armstrong, equine veterinarian and partner of Halton Equine Veterinary Services who is featured in the When to Call the Vet videos, further explains how vets identify and assess lameness. He also prepares owners

“We think that a visual approach to lameness will greatly help horse caregivers better understand the basics ...� - Dr. Cathy Rae, equine technical services veterinarian for Zoetis health and welfare of their for a lameness exam, including advice on teaching a horse to trusty steed. “We think that a visual trot in hand. Dr. Nicola Cribb, assisapproach to lameness will greatly help horse caregivers tant professor and equine better understand the basics surgeon at the University of of lameness and how to rec- Guelph, describes how changognize the signs of lameness es in behaviour and a slightly in their horse,� says Dr. Cathy unbalanced stride can be early Rae, equine technical services warning signs before lameness becomes more obvious with veterinarian for Zoetis. “This understanding can signs such as a head bob or a leg hitching. help them detect lameness ear-35$&7,&$/ 62/87,216 )25 &28175< /,9,1*

Clear the path There are more pathways on your farm than just to the parking lot. Consider where emergency vehicles might need to access your property, such as laneways and gates to paddocks.

Vacation preparation Tool tips - A “Lameness Lab� tool available on Equine Guelph’s website helps horse owners spot unsoundness. Equine Guelph Cribb’s video goes through a lameness checklist and explains the zero to five lameness scale used by American Association of Equine Practitioners. Lameness Lab allows horse owners to test their knowledge with interactive diagrams of muscles, tendons, bones, joints and the hoof. The tool also goes through the causes and factors contributing to

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increased risk. Early detection is important in the treatment of lameness and owners are urged to contact their vet if they see swelling, lameness, shortened stride or any signs of pain in a horse. Owners can also test their skill at detecting lameness in a video challenge. For more information visit the “Toolbox� section at www.EquineGuelph.ca.

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You have earned some downtime. Set your mind at ease while you are on holiday by making sure your emergency protocol is up to par with this handy checklist. Take time to learn. Winter is a perfect time to curl up with an informative eWorkshop. Equine Guelph offers two-week online Behaviour and Safety courses (the latest featuring world renowned guest speaker Dr. Rebecca Giminez from Technical Large Animal Emergency Rescue).

Plan a clinic Industry professionals: Once you have completed Equine Guelph’s Behaviour and Safety eWorkshop you are set to host your own workshop using our facilitator kit.

Keep seniors content Are you blanketing your aging equid because he looks a bit lean this season or has he grown more winter woolies than ever before? Learn to recognize metabolic changes to promote quality of life in

elderly equines. Test your knowledge with the “Senior Horse Challenge.�

Cut down on ‘dust devils’ More time spent indoors during foul weather can do a number on your horses health. Muck stalls more frequently (preferably without the horse in the stall). Take precautions to reduce dust in feed and maintain the footing in the indoor riding arena on a weekly basis.

Danger of dashing through deep snow Deep snow can hide dangerous holes and hazards. The hard work of riding through several feet of snow or an unexpected slip can cause muscle, tendon and ligament injuries.

Ice issues Ice is the enemy of both horses and their owners. In troughs, ice can inhibit horses from consuming an adequate amount of water which in turn can lead to colic. A heated water source encourages horses to drink. On pathways and in paddocks, ice can cause injuries resulting from slipping and sliding. Keep shovels, shavings, sand and salt handy. Ice in water pipes can lead to a real mess if they freeze solid, causing a potential rupture and flood. Protect pipes, stable and water supply with adequate insulation.

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EQUINE | PAGE 3

Father-son duo takes Johnston, Lampman Cups for 2014 racing season by Jaime Myslik GUELPH-ERAMOSA - For Doug McNair it has always been a dream to win the coveted Lampman Cup, awarded annually to the driver with the most points in the Ontario Sires Stakes program. The program involves twoand three-year-old standardbred horses whose sires are registered, standing studs in Ontario. Drivers and trainers are awarded points based on their finishes. At just 25 years of age, McNair reached his goal and on Jan. 31, when he was awarded the Lampman Cup for the 491 points he earned in the 2014 racing season. And to top if off, Doug’s father, standardbred trainer Gregg McNair, won the Johnston Cup, the equivalent Ontario Sires Stakes award for trainers, amassing 337 points in 2014. It is the third straight year Gregg has taken home the top trainer award. The wins shouldn’t come as a surprise to those familiar with the industry, as both

McNairs grew up with racing in their blood, having being around horses for most of their lives. “Dad had horses in the early ‘70s I guess,” Gregg recalled. “Some of us kind of got interested and went from there.” Gregg’s successful training

tunate enough to take some of his father’s horses down as well. “I had lots of help along the way,” he explained. “I had good people working for me and I had a lot of good owners and the drivers, a lot of drivers helped me out. You learn a lot from everyone else.”

“I had lots of help along the way. I had good people working for me ... You learn a lot from everyone else.” - Trainer Gregg McNair on his successful career in standardbred racing. career began when he moved to Windsor in the early 1980s. “It was a good place to get started,” he said. “At that time you could race cheap horses, and good horses. “And a lot of the people up and around where I was from, the Walkerton/Hanover area, they didn’t race in the winter so they’d give you horses to race down there.” Gregg added he was for-

After living in Windsor for about a decade, Gregg spent one winter racing in Montreal but wasn’t as successful as he would have liked. So, in the early 1990s he moved to Guelph-Eramosa Township and started Gregg McNair Stables at the corner of Wellington Road 51 and Highway 6. Gregg said he moved to Wellington County because

Victory - Doug and Gregg McNair celebrate their win in the Battle of Waterloo at Industry Day 2013 at Grand River Raceway in Elora. Iron Horse Photo he wanted to get into the Woodbine and Mohawk racing scenes. “Once you got in there it just kind of kept going from there,” he said. For Doug, his transition into the racing industry was somewhat more organic. His

father was already an established trainer and had the horses and equipment to hook Doug at a young age. “It’s a family thing and I remember being young, I used to be at the track all the time … and just want to be like the guys that were racing at

Woodbine all the time,” Doug remembered. It didn’t take long for him to get his wish. “I actually started jogging them when I was about six years old myself,” he said. Continued on next page

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PAGE 4 | EQUINE

McNairs looking forward to busy 2015 standardbred racing season

FROM PREVIOUS PAGE “They’d always set me up with one or two quiet ones and let me jog them. I wasn’t big enough for sure or old enough to be jogging them, but that’s the best way to learn.” And from then on he was hooked. “[When I had] days off school or whatever I’d go out there or I’d have a sick day and then go to the barn with my dad once in a while,” Doug said. Slowly he built a name for himself within the industry, entering his first race in 2008 at the Western Fair in London. “I actually won my first race,” he said. “I look back now, even at some of the races in my first year, I watch them and think, ‘Geez I shouldn’t have done that ... but you learn a lot as you get older.” Now established as one of the top drivers and top trainers in North America, respectively, the McNairs can choose to work with whomever they want - but still enjoy working with one another. “A lot of people, they think it’s probably tougher to race in the competitive league that we’re racing in because obviously the money is so good and stuff and you don’t want to screw things up, but [dad’s] easy to work with,” Doug said. “But he can get under my skin in a hurry and I can get under his in a hurry too. If things don’t go right [in a race] ... for the first five minutes I come off, he’ll try not to push my buttons much.” Gregg likes working with his son for the same reason. “You don’t say too much after he races,” Gregg said. “I can kind of tell by how he’s acting if [he] thought he

raced good.“ He’ll mention it back to you a couple days later what he thinks might have been wrong or what he thinks was right about him.” Gregg said as a trainer it is a great relationship to have, as reflective input and feedback from a driver is invaluable. Often he needs to catch the driver right off the track

“As a driver we rarely get to take a week off ...” - Doug McNair before they move on to their next trainer, but with Doug, there is time for reflection and personal analysis before the pair discusses the race. Not only that, Gregg said Doug is simply a great driver. “A lot of them guys that are good at it, they’re good at it right off the bat and [Doug’s] natural at it,” he said. Though Doug tries to drive his dad’s horses when he can, Gregg understands his son wants to win and may choose to drive for a different trainer in a race where Gregg also has a horse competing. “If it works out for us we try to get him to drive most of them, but if he’s listed to drive my horse and somebody else’s he’ll drive the other horse if he thinks it’s a better horse,” Gregg said. He also pointed out that it’s not always easy for Doug, having the affiliation he does with Gregg McNair Stables. “Some people won’t list him to drive, they’ll say, ‘Well

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he’ll have his dad’s horse in there,’ so they just won’t put him down on one so it’s a bonus for him in a way when he’s got a real nice one to drive but if we’ve got something that’s not that quick or something he’s got to drive it sometimes,” Gregg explained. “He won’t get a chance on another one.” Being pegged as only driving his dad’s horses is not the only challenge for Doug. He said it’s nearly impossible to take any time off because if a driver does, there are others waiting to pick up the horses left behind. “As a driver we rarely get to take a week off for the year because there’s 10 other guys standing there that are going to take your drives when you’re away,” he said. Because of that threat, Doug was unable to attend the Standardbred Breeders of Ontario Association’s Annual Awards Banquet to receive the Lampman Cup. He took December off and was just getting back into the racing groove at the time of the banquet, so he didn’t want to miss out on driving in any races that Saturday night, he said. He takes this personal rule so seriously that he even left his best friend’s wedding (at which he was the best man) early to drive in the day’s races. Both Doug and Gregg said racing takes up the majority of their time. For Doug it’s being at the track racing most nights and for Gregg it’s getting up in the morning to train and being at the track on evenings to watch those horses race. “Some people don’t want to be as busy as we are,” Gregg said. “It takes a lot of trucking around and stuff to

Waterloo winner - Doug McNair drives Three of Clubs to victory in the 2013 Battle of Waterloo in Elora. Iron Horse Photo get [the horses] raced. And we truck them all from home. So it’s a lot of work. Some people are satisfied just racing three or four horses and that would suit me too, but we like being busy.” Right now Gregg has four three-year-old and 25 twoyear-old horses in Florida to train over the winter, so he was also unable to attend the awards banquet last month. About half of those horses he owns and the other half are horses he’s training for other owners. He’ll be bringing the newly-trained horses back north in April, he said, just in time for the Canadian racing season. The pace also slows down for Doug over the winter. Unlike in the summer, when he usually races every night and sometimes in the afternoon as well, Doug drives five nights a week in the winter, giving him some time for

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them,” he explained. “A good horse usually lets you do what you want ... you can put them on the front and you can race them on the lead. Or you can race them off the pace, which is obviously sit fifth or sixth and come up off the pace. That makes a great horse.” But it’s not always easy and a driver doesn’t always find that special horse. “You can go a couple days and not win a race and it just feels like you’re never going to win one again,” Doug explained. “One guy always says, ‘You’re only one win away from happiness.’ And it’s true. The next day you’ll get there and you’ll win and you’ll feel good again, but it’s tough. It’s up and down.” Despite the emotional roller coaster racing often brings, Doug and Gregg are both looking forward to another successful season.

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other interests like hockey and snowmobiling. Both Gregg and Doug have achieved remarkable success in their racing careers. Gregg said his stable has won over 2,000 races and made over $40 million in purses. Similarly, Doug has won over 2,000 races, and hopes to win 10,000 or 12,000 in his career. He has driven horses to purses totalling close to $29 million thus far and hopes to reach the $100-million mark before the end of his career. As a driver, Doug said he’s always looking for the horse that will be the most successful that season - one that can adapt to different racing strategies. “[Smart horses] just feel like they’ve [raced] a million times before when they’ve never done it before and they shouldn’t know anything, but sometimes they’re just that much smarter than the rest of

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EQUINE | PAGE 5

Drugs and horses: Owners, vets should beware medicating dangers by Barbara Sheridan GUELPH - In the management of horse health, injuries and disease, conscientious horse owners would never put their horse at risk; however, improper use of some commonly administered equine drugs can impact the health and safety of our horses more than we think. Seldom does a month go by when media attention doesn’t focus on a positive drug test in the horseracing world. The news leaves many in the horse industry to shake their heads and wonder how trainers or owners could do such a thing to their animals. But did you know that the majority of these positives involve some of the more commonly-used drugs that we administer to our horses on a routine basis and which can produce some pretty unsettling results?

Under-diagnosis, over-treatment Used to relieve pain, allow or promote healing, and control or cure a disease process, therapeutic medications can be effective when they are used properly, but are quite dangerous when misused. Phenylbutazone, or “bute,” is one of the most commonlyadministered prescription drugs in the non-steroidal antiinflammatory drug (NSAID) family. When used properly, NSAIDs offer relief from pain and help in the reduction of inflammation and fever. Found in the medicine kits of many horse owners, bute can

That calming effect

be prescribed for a plethora of ailments, including sole bruising, hoof abscesses, tendon strains, sprained ligaments and arthritic joints. NSAIDS are invaluable as a medication, says Dr. Alison Moore, lead veterinarian for Animal Health and Welfare at the Ontario Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs in Guelph, Ontario. “When used appropriately, they are very safe; however, some horse owners tend to give too much of a good thing,” she says. Moore goes on to say that this form of drug (bute) is both economical and convenient, available in either injectable and oral formulations; but is most likely to cause problems if given too long or in improperly high doses, especially if horses are more sensitive to NSAID toxicity. “If you look at the chronic use of bute, there’s certainly known ramifications from it,”

says Moore. “There’s healthderived issues including gastric and colon ulcers, as well as renal impairment. Renal impairment is more prevalent in older horses that have developed issues with their kidney function or with equine athletes that perform strenuous exercise and divert blood flow from their kidneys. Chronic or repeated dehydration is also a risk factor for renal impairment. Chronic exposure to bute is more likely to cause signs attributable to the gastrointestinal tract.” Clinical signs of toxicity include diarrhea, colic, ulceration of the gastrointestinal tract (seen as low protein and/ or anemia on blood work or as ulcers on an endoscopic examination), poor hair coat, and weight loss. In the event of such symptoms, the medication should be stopped and the vet called for diagnosis and treatment. While a different

type of drug, flunixin meglumine (trade name Banamine), is found in the same NSAID family. “It’s not typically used as chronically as bute because it’s more expensive and mostly used for gastrointestinal, muscular or ocular pain, but if misused, especially with dehydrated horses, kidney and digestive tract toxicity can occur similarly to bute,” Moore notes. Because of the deleterious effect chronic NSAIDS can have on your horse, it is even more important not to “stack” NSAIDS. This is the process where two NSAIDS, usually bute and flunixin, or bute and firocoxib, are given at the same time. Not only does the dual administration create gastrointestinal and renal problems as listed above, but bute and flunixin given together can cause a severely low blood protein that may affect interactions with other medications.

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The list of tranquilizers, sedatives and supplements intended to calm a horse can be extensive, including some which can be purchased online or at your local tack shop. For example, acepromazine, known as “ace,” is commonly used as a tranquilizer to keep a horse calm and relaxed by depressing the central nervous system. It is available as an injection or in granular form and does not require a prescription. If given incorrectly, it can carry a risk of injury or illness for the horse. “Tranquilizers can be used to keep horses quiet for training purposes or for stalled horses due to injury, but it can be difficult to control the dose when given orally,” states Moore. “The difficulty with chronic administration is you don’t know how much you’re dosing your horse or how the horse is metabolizing it. Since it is highly protein bound in the bloodstream, a horse with low protein may develop side effects more quickly or react to a lower dose. Side effects include prolapse of the penis, which is more of a problem in stallions, and low hematocrit, a measure of red cell percentage in the blood. At very high doses, the horse will develop ataxia [a wobbly gait] and profuse sweating.” As every horse is different, and the correct dosage needs to be calculated based on the horse’s weight and other influences, Moore stresses the importance of having a vet oversee any tranquilizer use. It

is also important to inform the veterinarian of any acepromazine given to your horse, as it can affect the outcome of veterinary procedures, such as dentistry that requires sedation.

Drug compounding In equine medicine, compounding is the manipulation of one drug outside its original, approved form to make a different dose for a specific patient, whether it’s mixing two drugs together or adding flavouring to a commercially available drug. However, mathematical errors can occur. Last July, Equine Canada issued a notice asking their members to use compounded drugs with caution citing that because these medications are not available as a licensed product, they may contain different concentrations compared to a licensed product. There have been several instances where the medication contained too little of an active ingredient, leaving it ineffective, or too much, which can result in death. Compounded drugs and their related risks came to light several years ago with the high-profile deaths of 21 polo ponies at the U.S. Open Polo Championships in Wellington, Florida in 2009. After being injected with a compounded vitamin supplement that was incorrectly mixed, all 21 ponies collapsed and died. “The biggest issue with compounded drugs is that many horse owners are not often aware of what it means,” says Moore. “They think it’s a Continued on page 11

PAGE 6 | EQUINE

Equine Canada aims to showcase Hills of Headwaters horse industry during this summer’s Pan Am Games in Toronto

by Jaime Myslik NEWMARKET – Come July, Ontario’s horse country is going to be flooded with enthusiastic spectators inspired by the Toronto 2015 Pan Am Games. With an expected 10,000 international visitors (according to the Pan America Games organizing committee), 1,500 could be equestrian visitors from over 30 countries, Kelly Counsell of Strategic Equine Inc., a consulting firm for Equine Canada, stated in an email. In partnership with the Hills of Headwaters Tourism Association and the Ontario Equestrian Federation, the organization is offering Equine Experience 2015 throughout July while the games are underway. Equine Canada has called on the horse industry within an hour’s radius of the Caledon Pan Am Equestrian Park and the Pan Am Cross-Country Centre (Caledon/Orangeville) to host various events throughout July to showcase the best of what Canada has to offer in the international equine scene. Equine Canada spearheaded that event as part of its efforts to market the international exportation of Canadian horses and genetics. The 2013-2018 long-term international strategy focuses on developing relationships

with the emerging equine markets in China, South Africa, Central and South America and Australia. Central and South Americans will likely make up the majority of the international visitors at Horse Experience 2015, as those are the other participant countries in the overall Pan Am Games, Counsell said in a phone interview.

ferent equine areas) as well as exporting stock and genetics, said Counsell. “The idea [is] to host international delegates that want to learn about how we do it here in Canada,” she said. Those centres of excellence will also be available and accessible for international visitors during the Pan Am games. However, Horse Experience 2015 is not only for inter-

“The idea [is] to host international delegates that want to learn about how we do it here in Canada.” - Kelly Counsell of Strategic Equine Inc.

Something for everyone - Horse Experience 2015 is set to take place during the Toronto 2015 Pan Am games in July. Equine Canada, the Hills of Headwaters Tourism Association and the Ontario Equestrian Federation are working together to showcase the best of what Canada has to offer the equestrian market. submitted photo

With countries in both Central and South America showing interest, and expansion in thoroughbred racing, standardbred racing and Fédération Équestre Internationale (FEI) activities such as show jumping, dressage, eventing and reining to name a few, Horse Experience 2015 will be a showcase of all equine activities in the given area, Counsell said. Equine Canada is looking to encourage that expansion in emerging equine markets by providing access to centres of excellence (training provided in Canada for dif-

national spectators, but also to showcase the industry to Canadians who may not be aware of what their own country has to offer. Though the Pan Am Games focuses on just show jumping, dressage and eventing competitions, Horse Experience 2015 aims to appeal to all horse enthusiasts, and even some who are not as interested in the four legged animals. “Anybody who’s coming here to see the horse events or participate in horse events certainly has an interest in horses, but then there’s all the other athletes and their

associated other people that are coming to look at other sports, so everyone is really sport-oriented and that should be an attraction for them as well,” Counsell said. “As long as they’re aware of it.” Counsell said there could be a rodeo and a learn-to-playpolo-in-a-day event involved in the program and also afternoons and nights at the races for thoroughbreds, standardbreds and quarter horses, but Equine Canada is still working with hosts to secure contracts and venues.

“The industry is expected to really step up, to really show the best possible horses that we have in as many possible disciplines,” Counsell said. “We do expect that people that are getting on board - are getting on board in a really professional way.” The events could be free, or visitors might have to pay a fee; it is up to the individual vendors. Counsell indicated the following could be possible activities under Horse Experience 2015: tours of farms, educa-

tional facilities, training centres and racetracks; exhibitions, trade fair-type exhibits, demonstration events, clinics and educational seminars or symposiums; and equi-tourism events such as learning to play polo, trail rides, cattle drives, etc. No equine niche will be left out, says Counsell, and domestic visitors as well as foreign travellers can expect to learn more about the equine industry if they choose to take advantage of Horse Experience 2015.

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When the mere mention of massage for your horse is brought up, what first comes to mind? Perhaps a mental image of a horse on a massage table (maybe even a giggle at the thought)? zŽƵŶŐ ,ŽƌƐĞƐ Maybe it is only for relaxation and rejuveEŽƚ zĞƚ /Ŷ hƐĞ WůĞĂƐƵƌĞ ƌŝĚŝŶŐ Other Uses Ϯϯй nation, a sort of luxury and not worth having Θ ĚƌŝǀŝŶŐ Breeding stock 11% ϭϴй done regularly? Massage is often viewed as 2% Pleasure Racing 18% more of a treat for your horse for special occaRiding ZĂĐŝŶŐ ƋƵĞƐƚƌŝĂŶ ^ƉŽƌƚ 6%sions and not a necessity. This seems to be the ϱй ŽŵƉĞƟƟŽŶ Western sport set of most recurring mind Breeding stockequine owners and Young Horses ϭϴй is perhaps one of the disciplines 2% largest misconceptions Not Yet In Use Pleasure riding when it comes to equine massage. 4% Western sport disciplines: 4% 23% & driving Of course there is a component of massage FEI sport that is enjoyable for the horse, because really Racing: 2% 18% Other Uses disciplines who wouldn’t enjoy 2% it? There is however, much Pleasure riding: 6% 7% more to it than just relaxation. Perhaps the Racing Equestrian Sport more important thing to recognize is the many Breeding stock: 2% 5% Competition different ways of a horse can truly benefit from 18% Other uses: 2% regular treatments. This way of thinking needs to be addressed in order for this type of therapy FEI sport disciplines: 7% to be taken seriously. Massage has its place, just as any other alternative therapy available out there to the equine industry. Benefits for horses include: - increased circulation (the number one efTORONTO - Expected to the trail initiative. added to the menu and then fect); attract some 250,000 visitors, This culinary trail will vote for their favourite. - reduces adhesions or scar tissue; including tens of thousands begin when the torch relay The winners from that con- improves suppleness and flexibility; of international guests, the comes to Headwaters and test will be announced after - increased elasticity in the muscle tissues, Toronto 2015 Pan Am Games ends when the Para Pan Am the games and will be featured allowing for better extension; will run from July 10 to 26. Games are finished. at the Headwaters’ annual - increased range of motion; As Headwaters is home Focusing on local ingredi- Taste of Tourism awards night - help with mental attitude of the horse; of the equestrian events, area ents, officials are urging res- in November. - stimulates muscle tone; officials want to capitalize on taurateurs to create a signature The participation registra- increases or relaxes muscle tone (depenthe opportunity and make sure item (food or drink) and give tion deadline is April 17. dent on which is needed); and visitors get to experience some them the details. They will The press announcement - decreases recovery time between events. of the area’s exceptional culi- then create the trail, including of trail participants will take There are many reasons why any horse nary fare during their visit. all the signature items and will place May 7. should have regular massage sessions. Sure the Officials invite people encourage visitors to visit the Leading With the Best horse will have some relaxation from the sesto create their own Pan Am participating establishments partners enter for free. Nonsion as well, but the amount of benefit is sigSignature fare and be part of to taste the item created and partners pay a $ 100 fee. nificant.

Massage benefits - Equine massage therapist B. Nicole Wilson says massage can provide a wide range of benefits for horses, including increased range of motion and decreased recovery time after events. submitted photo

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Massage can make huge differences in the way a horse moves and performs, and can even have a positive impact on their mental state something that is of utmost importance for horses whether competing or used for pleasure riding. It may even help with unruly behaviour if the horse is acting out in pain or due to the inability to physically do what is being asked. Massage can be of benefit to every horse, no matter what their age, fitness level or discipline. Added to other horse health team modalities, massage can achieve amazing results. Wilson is a certified equine massage therapist and equine Reiki practitioner.

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page 8 | equine

2014 worst year ever for eastern equine encephalitis by Maureen Anderson GUELPH - 2014 was the worst year ever for eastern equine encephalitis virus (EEEV) in Ontario (though numbers pale in comparison to more endemic areas in the southern U.S. such as Florida). A recent article published in the Animal Health Lab (AHL) Newsletter (December 2014) by Dr. Alison Moore from OMAFRA sums things up well: “Twenty-two horses and two emus in the province died or were euthanized due to the disease with potentially as many deaths being suspected by attending veterinarians. “Two horses were confirmed infected but survived. Counties in eastern Ontario suffered the greatest casualties. Diagnosis in 21 horses was by serum IgM ELISA testing and three were diagnosed by RT-PCR on brain tissue. The affected horses were diagnosed between the end of July and the end of October. Ages of affected horses ranged from 2-20+ years, with no breed or

sex predilection. Most of the infected horses were unvaccinated backyard horses and only a single horse per property was clinically affected. Most horses had an acute onset of the disease with death or euthanasia performed within

“The virus causing EEEV is transmitted by mosquitoes. In Ontario, the most important species is Culiseta melanura, which feeds on birds. Bridge vectors, mosquitoes that feed on both birds and mammals, then complete the

“Twenty-two horses and two emus in the province died or were euthanized due to the disease with potentially as many deaths being suspected by attending veterinarians ...” - Dr. Alison Moore, OMAFRA 24-48 hours. Common clinical signs included ataxia progressing to recumbency, with fever noted in some and blindness and head pressing noted in others. In the two horses that survived, the clinical signs were mild (ataxia and lethargy). The two emus were diagnosed with hemorrhagic enteritis and EEEV, confirmed in the intestine and liver by RT-PCR.

cycle to humans and horses. Outbreaks occur in hardwood, flooded areas with competent avian reservoirs and mammals present. Horses and humans are dead-end hosts as they do not produce sufficient viremia to infect mosquitoes. “So why was 2014 such a devastating year? Some speculate that eastern Ontario was relatively warmer this year than other parts

of the province, others say it was due to the amount of spring precipitation. Others implicate the spring migration of wading birds such as herons from Florida. Herons are a preferred host for Culiseta sp. over winter in Florida, a major reservoir state for EEEV. The spring migration of herons and similar birds is thought to disseminate the virus to the northern U.S. and Canada. OMAFRA and Public Health Ontario will be working together over the winter to determine any associations between ecological and meteorological factors and disease occurrence.” Given the amount of activity seen with this virus this past summer, vaccination of horses against EEEV (particularly in hard-hit areas) will be important come spring to help avoid a repeat of this year’s outbreak. More information about the occurrence of EEEV and other equine neurologic diseases in Ontario is available on the OMAFRA website: Equine Neurological Disease Surveillance 2014.

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EQUINE | PAGE 9

Vaccines: Do you know what your horse needs? Wounded Warriors Canada GUELPH - Along with spring comes opportunities to protect your horses against diseases that are spread via insects and contact with other horses. Outlined below are ways to optimize your horse’s health care this season. Vaccines: Do you know what vaccines your horse needs? The American Association of Equine Practitioners (AAEP) provides great guidelines on what vaccines are core for your horse, and what vaccines are risk based and should be discussed with your veterinarian. You can access this information at www.aaep. org. Below are diseases commonly vaccinated against in this region. 1) Rabies - ‘core’ vaccine as rabies is a potential human health risk. Rabies is an invariably fatal neurologic disease. 2) Tetanus - ‘core’ vaccine - all horses are at risk of developing tetanus which can be a fatal disease caused by a spore forming bacterium,

6) Strangles - is often recommended for horses interacting with other horses of unknown vaccine history. This bacterial disease can be carried by horses that show no clinical signs. Speak to your veterinarian to find out if they recommend the strangles vaccine for your horse. 7) Potomac Horse Fever (PHF) - is caused by Neorickettsia risticii. This disease is seasonal, occurring in late spring - fall. Clinical signs may include: fever, diarrhea, laminitis and mild colic. Speak to your veterinarian to find out if they recommend the PHF vaccine for your horse.

clostridium tetani. Spores can survive in the environment for many years, resulting in a constant risk of exposure of horses. It is not a contagious disease but is the result of exposure of wounds, surgical incisions and exposed tissues to the bacterium. 3) EEEV/WEEV - ‘core’ vaccine - Eastern and Western Equine Encephalitis is a mosquito borne disease and the vaccine is recommended for all horses. EEEV/WEEV presents as a debilitating neurologic disease. 4) West Nile Virus - ‘core’ vaccine - is a neurologic disease transmitted by mosquitos and has a case fatality rate for horses showing clinical signs of approximately 33% (aaep. org). 5) EHV/Influenza - is an important vaccine for horses travelling off-property and interacting with other horses. The viruses are spread via aerosolized secretions from infected coughing horses and by direct and indirect (fomite) contact with nasal secretions.

Dentistry An annual dental examination with a speculum on so your veterinarian can see and palpate the mouth for any abnormalities is highly recommended. Sharp enamel points develop along the outer edge of the maxillary cheek teeth and along the inner edge of the mandibular cheek teeth. If

left untreated, these can cause discomfort to the horse, bitting and performance issues, ulceration and irritation in the cheek tissue or tongue.

makes donation in equine assisted support for PTSD

EDMONTON - Wounded Warriors Canada has announced it will make a $170,000 donation in 2015 to Can Praxis – Canada’s leading post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) equine program supporting Canada’s ill and injured Canadian Armed Forces members, veterans and their families. Dental prophylaxis that Can Praxis is designed to involves removing these points specifically address ongoing is referred to as floating. Other challenges of conflict and crireasons for an annual dental sis in a relationship brought exam include abnormalities on by PTSD and other operasuch as malocclusions, fractional stress injuries. Horses tures, infected tooth roots provide an environment where and retained deciduous caps. honest and open feedback surDepending on the veterinary rounding these concerns can diagnoses, dental exams may be addressed. be recommended bi-annually, This donation was made especially for younger and possible through an ongogeriatric horses. ing partnership between Submitted by Main Street Wounded Warriors Canada Animal Hospital and Upper and Glenfiddich. Since 2012, Grand Veterinary - Equine Glenfiddich has donated AM Services Life Stages AD_PRESS.pdf 1 19/02/2015 over 9:17:54 $300,000 to Wounded

Warriors Canada with the funds raised now supporting the charity’s funding for Can Praxis. Phil Ralph, national program director for Wounded Warriors Canada, commented, “Wounded Warriors Canada ... is extremely proud to be their national funding partner – ensuring that no matter where a serving or retired Canadian Armed Forces member resides, this programs is accessible at no cost.” Steve Critchley, co-founder of Can Praxis, commented, “PTSD and OSI are not regional concerns – nor does it matter their age or where they served.” For more information on Wounded Warriors Canada visit: www.woundedwarriors. ca. For more information on Can Praxis visit: http://canpraxis.com.

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PAGE 10 | EQUINE

Be prepared for a disaster

Equine Guelph offers tips for owners GUELPH - While one can’t plan for every form of disaster, it’s important to familiarize yourself with any potential risks that could occur in your area and plan for them accordingly. Planning ahead can help horse owners stay composed and act quickly in an emergency situation.

Pre-planning checklist Skijoring - Participants at Wellington County Gypsy Vanner Horses often participate in skijoring over the winter to get outside, have fun and exercise the horses. They use skis, snowboards, sleighs or toboggans behind a horse that is sometimes ridden and sometimes driven by the skier. submitted photo

Sunrise Equestrian launches new day program for adults PUSLINCH - Sunrise Therapeutic Riding and Learning Centre is launching a pilot day program for adults with cognitive delays. The pre-pilot was a great success, officials say. The program runs on Tuesdays from 10am until 2pm at the Sunrise farm (6920 Concession 1 in Puslinch). The program offers a 1:4 ratio of trained staff to clients. If participants need ad-

ditional assistance, they may be required to provide their own personal support worker (PSW). Participants will be engaged in a variety of indoor and outdoor activities, including stable maintenance, grooming horses and physical activity programs. Each task is designed to build personal skills in an accessible, supportive environment. Objectives for each participant will

vary, but will include communication skills, balance and coordination, cognitive learning skills and social skills. Limited spaces are currently available. This feebased program is eligible for passport reimbursement. For more information, contact Sydney Holmes, Sunrise recreation and life skills co-ordinator at 519-837-0558 x23 or sydney@sunrise-therapeutic.ca.

• Survey your property and map out the location of all dwellings and animal barns, along with the amount and type of livestock. • Outline and practice emergency evacuation/fire escape plans (emergency action plans) and ensure that evacuation routes include containment areas for any evacuated animals. • Provide your emergency action plans in a prominent location (i.e. whiteboard) and confirm individuals that assist if needed, especially if you are unable to get to your property. • Keep an up-to-date emergency contact list, which would also include individuals who would be able to assist with transporting and sheltering your horses. • Ensure that your address (fire number) is prominently displayed and visible from both directions for emergency

responders. • Make sure that all your horses have some form of identification (i.e. livestock markers etc.) • Photograph your horses from all angles and keep three printed copies; one in barn in a waterproof pouch (Ziploc bag), one with you and one off site. • Safely store a two-week supply of feed/hay (with feeding instructions) and ensure a minimum three-day supply of water is stored in covered containers. • Store any medications and supplements in an airtight, waterproof container. Always read labels and store at appropriate temperatures. • Assemble and maintain an equine emergency care kit that includes vetwrap, bandages, medications (stored in correct temperature range), flashlights, batteries, etc., and keep it with up-to-date records of your horse’s vaccinations and medications, etc. • Make sure that insurance coverage on your property and horses is up to date.

Around the barn • Post emergency phone numbers in a prominent location in your barn. • Keep at least one wellmaintained generator on site and have enough fuel to keep it running for several days.

• Know the location and operation of all emergency shutoff valves and containment measures and be sure the information is readily available to responders. • Keep all hazardous material labeled and secured in a safe place. • Check wiring to ensure it is safe and in good condition and not a fire hazard. • Make sure all doors are working properly and are able to open or shut in an emergency situation. • Make sure your laneways and gates to paddocks are large enough that emergency vehicles such as a fire truck can access your property. • Keep all fire extinguishers fully charged and easily accessible for immediate use. • Always keep a sufficient amount of halters and leads ropes for every horse on the property ready and easily accessible. • Have designated areas to keep flashlights, first-aid kits, etc. • When in doubt, consult with your local fire department for advice on how to effectively keep your horses safe on the farm. Learn more about safety and planning with the next online offering of Equine Guelph’s management of the equine environment course and Horse Behaviour and Safety eWorkshop.

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EQUINE | PAGE 11

Closely monitor horses during medication, treatment FROM PAGE FIVE generic form of a drug, but it’s not. It’s the mixing of an active pharmaceutical ingredient, wherever it comes from in the world, with whatever flavour powder or product the pharmacy or veterinarian puts together. When going from one jar to the next, the concentrations could be different. It could be twice the strength, and that’s harmful. or half the strength and have little effect.” Because this process is not regulated with respect to quality, safety and efficacy, there can be risks associated with compounding drugs. “Technically, veterinarians are not supposed to dispense a compounded drug if there is a commercially-available product already, such as phenylbutazone [bute],” says Moore. “If your vet felt that there was a therapeutic use for a combination product of bute and Vitamin E, then that is a legitimate reason for compounding it. But a lot of people want to use compounded drugs

because they’re cheaper. But cheaper doesn’t necessarily mean better.” Moore explains that without careful attention to the appropriate dosage and administration, such as shaking the bottle properly so that no residue will settle in the bottom (or the last few doses will be extremely concentrated), health issues can occur. Compounded medications have provided a lot of benefit to horse health by providing access to products or product forms that would be difficult to obtain otherwise, but because of the concerns regarding quality control, horse owners should fully understand the potential risks of using a compounded product and discuss these concerns with their veterinarian.

dividual, as common practice was to deworm the entire barn on a fixed, regular schedule. However, over the past 10 years, studies have shown there is a growing concern regarding parasite resistance to dewormers. Veterinarians now recommend that horses be screened for parasites by way of a fecal egg test first instead of deworming with a product that may not be effective against parasite burdens. A fecal exam is far safer than administering deworming medications that they don’t need. Dewormers are safe when used properly, including testing first and using a weight tape for an accurate dosage. Moore suggests contacting your vet to develop a deworming program that is right for your horse and your specific area.

Deworming strategies

A question of welfare?

In the past, traditional deworming programs didn’t consider each horse as an in-

Horse owners should be aware of the more frequent reactions to drug use in their

horses and consider both the short term and long term effects before use. Consideration of the horse’s welfare should be not only for the present, but also for its future. With the use of drugs for horses, it’s important to: - proceed with the guidance of a veterinarian; - use the lowest possible dosage possible in order to achieve the desired results; - calculate the correct dosage based on your horse’s body weight through the use of a weight tape; and - closely monitor a horse throughout treatment. “It’s being very aware of the use of our common, everyday drugs. As good a drug as it is, when it’s misused, negative effects will occur,” says Moore. “There’s a greater importance on knowing the overall health level of your horse. It’s always best to have a good base point first, and because the kidneys and liver are the two main organs that process medication, it’s important to know

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PUSLINCH - Local trainer Richard Moreau has successfully defended his Trainer RICHARD of the Year MOREAU title. Moreau, who operates a 50-acre horse-training facility in Puslinch Township, was named top trainer by Standardbred Canada at its 2014 O’Brien Awards on Feb. 7. He led all Canadian trainers in wins (241) and earnings ($2.7 million) last season. For more information on Moreau, who was featured in the April 2014 Equine feature of the Advertiser, visit www. wellingtonadvertiser.com and search “Moreau.”

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that those organs are working properly. That’s why those annual veterinary wellness exams are so important.” Horse enthusiasts can sign up for a free e-newsletter at EquineGuelph.ca, which delivers monthly welfare tips throughout 2015 and provides tools to aid all horse owners in carrying out their ‘FullCircle-Responsibility’ to their horses. In partnership with the Ontario Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs, Equine Guelph is developing a ‘Full-Circle-Responsibility’ equine welfare educational initiative which stands to benefit the welfare of horses in both the racing and non-racing sectors. Visit Equine Guelph’s Welfare Education page for more information. Equine Guelph is the horse owners’ and care givers’ centre at the University of Guelph. It is a unique partnership dedicated to the health and well-being of horses, supported and overseen by equine groups.

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PAGE 12 | EQUINE

Reducing the risk of respiratory ailments: Fresh air is best air GUELPH - Horses are naturally designed to live outside. With shelter from the wind and elements and access to fresh water and good quality hay most horses can live quite comfortably surrounded by their companions without a stable. This is not always a convenient option for their human counterparts. The life of a domestic horse requires consumption of hay and often grain to provide enough energy for the tasks we ask. The domestic horse is frequently stabled and ridden on sandy surfaces which can introduce many dusts and moulds that increase the chances of respiratory ailments. What can you do to improve air quality and reduce dust in your stable?

Ventilation Fresh air without drafts will go a long way to minimizing a horses exposure to harmful environmental irritants.

A combination of inlets (ie. - vents) and outlets (ie. - cupolas) help provide ventilation especially once barn windows and doors are closed up to provide warmth in the winter. Mechanical ventilation is another consideration.

Insulation Minimizes temperature fluctuations caused by warm days and cold nights. Proper insulation not only keeps the barn warm in the winter but when combined with good ventilation, a barn will avoid condensation problems which can make for cold, clammy and damp conditions.

Bedding Choose high quality, absorbent bedding with low dust levels. If you can smell ammonia – your horse’s airways are at risk. Ammonia can also increase mucus production. More turn-out time equals less urine in the stall. Daily, proper

cleaning of stalls is of course a must and use of an ammonia control product can prove useful in eliminating this noxious gas. It is recommended to turn out horses prior to cleaning the stable as bedding is the second most common source of dust in the barn. Savvy stable workers wet down floors before sweeping and also wear a dust mask.

Drainage Floors that allow urine to be absorbed and travel down through the flooring material layers can suffer from odor retention. Non-porous floors depend on slope for drainage and/or adequate bedding to soak up urine.

Feed Feed good quality hay and grain. Hay is the staple of the horse’s diet providing fibre which is essential for healthy gut function but it is also the single most common source of

dust and mould for horses. Even good quality hay will contain some dust; sprinkling hay with water can reduce the dust by half. Feeding from the ground and not throwing hay over the top of stall door will also reduce air bourne dust. All hay will have some mould present as there are many types of fungi in field crops. Hay that has been baled damp is the largest concern as this provides an environment of moisture and heat for mould to thrive and multiply. Mould spores are very small and often undetectable to the human eye but can travel deep into the lungs of a horse. Avoid round bales which can become havens for dust and mould.

Footing Fine smooth particles are more prone to suspension than heavier angular particles. Careful material selection and maintenance are required to reduce dust in arenas. When course materials break down

over time partial or full replacement should be considered. Check moisture content of footing weekly and water as required increasing the weight of footing particles. Consider additives and environmentally friendly oils to help bind particles and slow evaporation. A horse in a dusty environment is more prone to infection than a horse in a cleaner environment. A horse at rest taking 12 breaths per minute can inhale and exhale approximately 60 litres of air/minute. A top athlete can take over 150 breaths/ minute moving over 2,250 litres of air through the lungs. Airborne dust, noxious gases and infectious agents can hinder or halt a horse’s athletic career. Air enters the nostrils where it is warmed and humidified before entering the trachea. Then air travels along an ever increasing number of initially larger airways (bronchi) to small airways (bronchioles). Airways lined by cilia

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move mucus and particles up from the lungs. There is also mucus producing cells in the linings of airways. In a state of infection mucus can become tenacious. Finally a gas exchange occurs at the end of the journey in the alveolar sacs. A final defense barrier exists in the alveoli. Tiny inhaled particles are cleaned up by cells called macrophages which engulf material ranging from tiny particles of dust to bacteria. However a heavy burden of dust can decrease the ability of those cells to fight infectious agents such as bacteria. The lung evolved to deal with air. To maintain a healthy lung, minimize the pollutants it is exposed to. Learn more about maintaining a healthy environment for your horse with the next online offering of Equine Guelph’s management of the equine environment course (visit equineguelph.ca or call 519-824-4120 ext. 54205).

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