The UK’s leading equine health & well-being magazine
August/September 2008 £4.75
Fears over Newmarket race industry By Louise Cordell THE Newmarket racing industry could be under threat from proposed changes to the National Air Traffic Services. New research has suggested that investment in the area could dry up if planned alterations to Stansted and Luton airport stacking locations go ahead. The study was carried out by Bidwells on behalf of the multimillion pound horse racing and stud market industry in Newmarket. It revealed that if one key player in the industry left the area as a result of NATS changes, 93 per cent of stud owners believed there would be an impact on their business and future business decisions. The result would be the possible movement of the industry away from Newmarket and potentially out of the UK altogether. Alaistair Watson, chairman of the Newmarket Stud Farmers Association, said: “We accept that provision needs to be made for ‘stacking’ in this area. However, the current proposals will have the worst possible effect, particularly on the thorough-
bred breeding industry. Our research shows the most important factor to investors, after availability of services and land, is the high environmental standards of the area. There is the potential that breeders will perceive the stacking aircraft to be damaging to this environment.” Thoroughbred breeding in Newmarket is big business, employing over 2,000 full-time staff with the industry as a whole worth over £135m to the area. It occupies over 9,000 acres over which incoming flights will stack, under the new plans. Louise Kemble, chief executive of the Thoroughbred Breeders Association, said: “We are particularly concerned as Newmarket is the centre of breeding in Great Britain. As we have our most valuable stallions there we want the correct environment and infrastructure in place to support them. “The TBA is behind the Newmarket Stud Farmers Association 100 per cent and we have written to ministers within Defra and the Department of Culture Media and Sport to point out the negative effects of these moves on the industry as a whole.”
Over 250 horses from all over the world will be flying into Hong Kong for this year’s Olympic Games. Biosecurity measures will be essential to ensure that they do not bring in infection or contract any of the insectborne diseases prevalent in south-east Asia. Professor Josh Slater of the The Horse Trust’s Scientific
Sub Committee has now be seconded as biosecurity advisor to the event and will be responsible for getting the international horses safely into Hong Kong and through quarantine. Pictured are Laura Bechtolscheimer and Mistral Hojris of the Olympic Dressage Team. Picture: Lewis Harding Ltd
HORSE HEALTH I NEWS 3
Survey probes licensing issue By Louise Cordell A LIVERY welfare survey has been launched to discover whether a licensing system for UK yards is needed. Livery yards are very popular in the UK for those people who are unable to keep their horses and ponies at home. However, there is no record of how many horses are currently at livery or indeed the number of operating yards and their welfare standards. Now, leading equestrian organisations including the British Equine Veterinary Association, World Horse Welfare, the British Horse Society and the RSPCA have joined forces to address the situation. The group will be asking the general
public about their local livery yard to gain information about the number of yards, a general picture of the range and standard of accommodation and the services they offer. Chris House, BEVA chairman and working party chair, said: “We are in the early stages of discussions about licensing Britain’s livery yard system to ensure better welfare standards for horses kept at livery. “However, there is currently a void of information about these yards. “Working party members agreed that it was necessary to survey those involved with this important industry to gather the facts about standards before any decisions are made.” Horse owners, grooms, yard owners, veterinary surgeons, farriers and
other equine professionals are now being asked to complete an online survey at www.liveryyardsurvey.co.uk for any yards they have first hand knowledge about. Tony Tyler, WHW deputy chief executive and a member of the working party, said: “We are not seeking to impose a gold standard on livery yards, but we believe that there may be holes in the current system that lead to welfare problems. “We must find solutions that make improvements for vulnerable horses at the bottom end of the market.”
Births mark breed hopes FOUR Exmoor pony foals have been born at RSPB Snape Warren nature reserve, raising hopes for the rare breed’s future. The ponies are listed as endangered by the Rare Breeds Survival Trust, which has loaned the herd to the RSPB, and these are the first foals to be born in the group. Ian Barthorpe, RSPB spokesman, said: “The RSPB uses the Exmoor ponies to help maintain heathland and acid grassland at some of our Suffolk nature reserves in optimum condition for birds such as nightjars and woodlarks. “These ponies were first brought to Snape Warren last summer, and we’ve also taken them to our North Warren nature reserve. “They are an important management resource, and very popular with visitors.”
Because the Exmoor ponies are so rare, a stallion called Lysander, with an important rare bloodline, was brought in to sire the RSPB’s first foals. The foals include three fillies, which will prove particularly important in increasing the genetic diversity of the breed, and a colt. All four will also be named after birds, beginning with the same letter as their mother. Richard Clarke, RBST chief executive, said: “Some of our livestock breeds are at a risk of extinction, not only because of low numbers, but also because the genetic diversity of some breeds is narrowing. “Purchasing livestock from specific bloodlines and working with organisations like the RSPB, and with farmers, is putting conservation theory into practice to ensure the survival of breeds like the Exmoor pony.”
Inside ... The Tack Shop ... a guide to the latest in quality ... Feeding and Nutrition
Pages 19-23 Pages 11-15
BEVA Preview
Pages 28-29
Crimean War Disease
Pages 30-31
African Horse Sickness
Pages 32-33
Forge
Pages 34-35
Bloodstock matters
Pages 36-37
Equine Breeding
Page 18
Dentistry
Page 38
Going for Gold
Page 26
Classified
Page 39
GROUP EDITOR:
Andrew Harrod Tel: 01226 734639 email: ah@whpl.net EDITOR:
Christine Keate chris.keate@horsehealthmagazine.co.uk Tel: 07825 097 464 Reporter
Louise Cordell
Tel: 01226 734694
lcordell@whpl.net
PRODUCTION STUDIO MANAGER:
Stewart Holt sth@whpl.net DEPUTY GROUP EDITOR:
Judith Halkerston jhalkerston@whpl.net
Visitors to the site will be able to complete the survey confidentially and the results will be reviewed in September to establish what further action, if any, is necessary.
ADVERTISING
Nomination call
claire.mclean@horsehealthmagazine.co.uk
THE Blue Cross is calling for nominations from veterinary practices across the country for its Veterinary Nurse of the Year Award. The competition aims to recognise the contribution of nurses in educating the public about responsible pet ownership and the welfare of pets in the community. The nomination form is on The Blue Cross website at: www.bluecross.org.uk/ BVNA2008.
Dunkery Garganey with filly Goldcrest Picture: Andy Needle, RSPB
EDITORIAL
SALES AND MARKETING DIRECTOR:
Tony Barry PRODUCT MANAGER:
Claire Mclean Tel: 01226 734333 Fax: 01226 734478 Whilst every effort is made to ensure the accuracy of all content, the publishers do not accept liability for error, printed or otherwise, that may occur.
Horse Health is registered with the Audit Bureau of Circulations.
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HORSE HEALTH I NEWS
Saddle fitter warning HORSE owners are being advised to check their saddle fitter’s qualifications after a series of misleading claims have been discovered. In a statement from the Society of Master Saddlers, Pat Crawford said: “It has come to the Society of Master Saddlers’ attention that certain individuals, none of whom are Society members, have been advertising themselves as ‘fully SMS qualified’ or ‘trained by the SMS’, the implication being that they are SMS qualified, registered saddle fitters. In the particular cases monitored by the Society, the individuals concerned attended a Society of Master Saddlers’ Introductory course in saddle fitting. “This course is exactly that: an introduction to saddle fitting. It is open to equine vets and physiotherapists and others professionally employed in the equestrian industry as well as Society and British Equestrian Trade Association members. Attendance of the course is an obligatory foundation for those intending to go on to take the Society’s fitting course and assessment. “In order to be accepted on an SMS qualified saddle fitter’s course, candidates must be Society
members or employed by a member and they are only accepted if they have proof of an absolute minimum of three years’ saddle fitting experience. “The assessment itself is very comprehensive and requires the candidate to have a good knowledge of equine anatomy, musculature and movement. “They must be able to provide full descriptions of horses including ageing, any asymmetric muscular development or gait malfunctions. “It is also necessary to have a basic understanding of human anatomy. Candidates are assessed on their knowledge of saddlery for specific disciplines and, most important of all, they must prove ability to fit saddles for horses of varying ages and differing conformation. “The Society is prepared to involve Trading Standards and the Advertising Standards Authority in cases of individuals misrepresenting themselves as ‘SMS qualified’. “Horse owners are advised to check if they are in any doubt about credentials before using the services of a saddle fitter unknown to them. The Society’s website www.mastersaddlers.co.uk includes up-to-date lists of all registered qualified saddle fitters.”
Sanctuary in anniversary celebration By Louise Cordell THE Donkey Sanctuary’s 21st anniversary celebrations have been taking place on Lamu Island, Kenya, where donkeys are more popular than cars. The ‘Independence Day for the Lamu Donkeys’ was held by the charity workers who help care for and protect the 2,000 donkeys living on the island, where the town’s streets are too narrow for cars. The celebrations were attended by charity staff, religious leaders and locals and involved a special ‘Uta’ dance and show illustrating how much easier life can be if owners care for their donkeys properly. Abdalla Rifai, who runs the Lamu Sanctuary, said: “This was a very special celebration for me as I have been involved since the very first day when the Sanctuary’s founder, Dr Elisabeth Svendsen visited to look for donkeys. I have seen many changes over the years and one of our successes is that we have helped reduce the traditional practice of bleeding a donkey, or burning them with hot irons to treat illness; now donkey owners come to us for help.”
A donkey on Lamu island The charity provides free veterinary treatment to all the donkeys on the island and runs a twice yearly deworming programme. It has also constructed new watering facilities, introduced an annual ‘best condition donkey’ competition and is training community animal health workers on the surrounding islands to provide basic veterinary care.
‘Huge task ahead’ ON the first anniversary of the Emergency Services Protocol, BEVA and BHS have warned that there is still a huge task ahead. Despite a successful first year with progress being made on minimising delays in injured animal receiving veterinary care, the organisations reminded the industry there is still a lot to be done. Josh Slater, BEVA senior vice president, said: “When the BHS and BEVA launched the Protocol last year, we were well aware that it was only the start of what will undoubtedly be a long term initiative for improving safety and standards for all those involved in large animal rescue. BEVA’s role has expanded well beyond its initial remit of providing a list of equine veterinary practices that could be called upon to assist the emergency services in incidents involving horses. “Hampshire Fire and Rescue Service have been invaluable in helping us train our vets in rescue techniques and we aim to encourage as many vets as possible to attend our rescue
and emergency medicine course. “Providing veterinary care to horses in emergency situations is a dangerous activity and one that requires specialist knowledge and expertise.” His comments follow the announcement at June’s Animal Rescue Conference that the Chief Fire Officers Association is to establish an Animal Rescue Practition Group. The group will be chaired by Hampshire Fire and Rescue Service and will aim to develop national standards for animal rescue training for fire and rescue services and establish accreditation for training. Mark Weston, BHS director of access, safety and welfare, said: “The continuing development of the ESP procedures will help to ensure that those equine that are unfortunate enough to be involved in an accident are treated expeditiously and in accordance with best practice. We are delighted that the CFOA is taking this important step to develop standards further for animal rescue.”
HORSE HEALTH I NEWS 5
Horsebox safety warning after spate of incidents By Louise Cordell HAMPSHIRE Fire and Rescue Service have issued a horsebox safety warning following a spate of serious incidents in the county. Recently firefighters have rescued a 15 year old horse stuck by its off hind in a horsebox, a New Forest Pony that put its leg through the floor of a trailer and an Irish Sport Horse that had punched its way through two partitions. A Fresian gelding was also treated after launching itself over the partition of a lorry, falling out through the back door and on to the tarmac. Watch manger Jim Green said: “Any animal trapped in a confined space presents a highly dangerous, unpredictable situation. “This type of incident requires the immediate attendance of a trained animal rescue team, working closely with a vet who will assist with
chemical restraint, triage and aftercare. “Animals in distress cause people to rush in to help but this may well lead to serious personal injury as the recent incidents show. “We would urge owners not to enter any confined space with a distressed horse.” Horse and pony owners are being encouraged to always check that the floor of the vehicle is in good condition, make sure the trailer is serviced regularly, regularly check tyres for signs of wear and tear and always make sure they carry emergency numbers for their vet and breakdown company. Drivers are also advised to ensure they control their speed, drive smoothly, make sure the combined weight of horse and trailer does not exceed the safe towing limit and check the horses are wearing the correct travel protection.
Wound library is launched AN ONLINE ‘Wound Library’ has been launched to help vets access and develop new techniques and technologies for animal wound management. The site will provide a chance for vets to trial the most up to date products in return for honest evaluations of their success and usefulness. It is hoped that the data gained will contribute to what is currently a very poor evidence base for ‘modern’ wound management methods in veterinary practice. The library will also provide a database
of case outcomes by wound type, animal type and product type, educational material and references for further research. In the future it is hoped the site will be used as a source to develop further research, as an evidence base for clinicians and a foundation to develop new techniques, specific to veterinary practice. Membership for www.vetwoundlibrary.com is available for an annual fee of £38 which will be used to support its future growth and maintain its independence.
Attitudes to be analysed EQUESTRIAN consumers’ buying habits and attitudes to topical issues are to be analysed by the British Equestrian Trade Association. The organisation is hoping to create Europe's largest source of equestrian research, made up from the view of independent riders, owners, breeders and trainers, plus livery yard and riding school proprietors. Professionals and amateurs are being invited to join the web based project, known as the Equestrian Consumer Research Panel. Claire Williams, BETA’s executive director, said: “The non-bias of the panel will be an important feature of the research. The challenge for many organisations and companies undertaking their own research is that
they tend to cavass existing customers or interested individuals. “This project is a first for the equestrian sector in the UK and constant maintenance will ensure it remains contemporary and relevant. “We envisage running regular surveys that are custom-designed to companies’ requirements, together with more generic research on topical equestrian issues. “The result will be vital information for both commercial recipients and those who need to know what’s happening in the horse world.” Applicants to join will initially be asked to provide details of their equestrian involvement, and then to complete confidential, specific research questionnaires.
Blue Cross Ryan and Annalisa Burge
Boost for Blue Cross horse A BLUE Cross horse and his riding groom have been selected to take part in Dressage UK’s prestigious training programme. It is hoped that the training will help build Blue Cross Ryan’s experience, helping him to find a new loan home where his potential as a competition horse can be realised. The seven year old Irish Sport Horse was signed over to the charity a year ago and needed six months of box rest to recover from a flexor tendon injury. While being brought back into work he was entered into some local
dressage competitions by his rider Annalisa as part of his rehabilitation programme and his natural talent was spotted by Dressage U21s UK organiser Carol Hogg. She said: “Blue Cross Ryan is a super ambassador for the excellent work carried out by the Blue Cross. He generates plenty of attention when he is out and about on the show circuit as he is a good looking and big moving young horse with so much potential. It is lovely to be able to help the charity by providing some additional training for Ryan and Annalisa this year. ”
‘There is no better system on the market’ THE Combi+System is a real innovation: not only does it combine the two therapies, it also covers and treats the whole horse from the tail to the top of the neck. It works in sequence supporting venous blood flow and the lymphatic system and comes with 18 programmes, nine of which are preset to suit horses in everyday work. The other nine programmes can be set to varying frequencies, intensity and duration to suit the horse’s individual needs.
Picture courtesy of Lucy Mathews Photography look how it helped him! “He has never felt better. There is no better system on the market. It really does work!”
The Combi+System is used by many top riders to promote suppleness, relaxation, health and well-being in their horses.
Prices for systems start at £1,550 including VAT for either massage-only or pulsed electromagnetic-only and demonstrations are available on request. All systems are in stock and available to hire, hire/purchase and purchase.
Chris King, winner of Barbury Castle and Blenheim 2007, said: “The Secret Weapon lived in his Combi System during Bleinheim week and
See www.fmbs.co.uk for more information, or call 01628 472440 / 07885 539312.
Therapy Leg Wraps, Hoofpads and Laser and TENS equipment can also be run from the same control box.
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HORSE HEALTH I NEWS
In response ... A response to The Advantages of Herbal Parasite Control (April/May Issue) from Dr Colin Roberts BVSc PhD FRCVS: Articles such as this appear to be calculated to discourage the rational use of safe, modern drugs to treat potentially life-threatening equine disorders in favour of their replacement by unproven, so-called natural, alternatives. If a treatment is proven to be effective and safe it should be employed when appropriate, if it is ineffective and/or unsafe it should be discarded. Artificial categorizations such as ‘alternative’ and ‘traditional’ merely confound an already complicated field. It is true that resistance of target organisms to antibiotics and anthelmintics represents a potential major threat to the health of humans and animals alike, but this merely serves to emphasise the importance and current effectiveness of these drugs in modern medical and veterinary therapeutics. An important factor in the development of resistance to these drugs is their irrational use and the latter is frequently seen when untrained persons control their distribution. The article however, contends that some herbal ‘repellents’ have been proved ‘to have outstanding results, even
bettering the performances of familiar pharmaceutical products’’, if this is so, then why have they not been licensed as accredited wormers? There is much talk of ‘proof’ of the efficacy of herbal products, but the scientifically-tenable studies to demonstrate this, carried out using robust investigative techniques and published in peer-reviewed journals are lacking. As Williams and Lamprecht (2007) put in it their review article in The Veterinary Journal only last year, ‘Most herbs and functional foods have not been scientifically tested; this is especially true for the horse’. I should state that as I am not in first opinion practice and hence I cannot be said to have any vested interest in the prescription or promotion of socalled ‘conventional’ anthelmintics and antibiotics. As an equine clinician, my loyalties lie with the fostering of rational, evidence-based treatment of sick horses such that their diseases are handled efficiently and safely whilst the development of resistance to therapeutic agents by bacteria and parasites is minimised. In my opinion, articles such as the one that I have discussed here do a disservice to the efforts of the veterinary profession and, far, far more importantly, to the health and welfare of our horses.”
Advertiser’s announcement
Keeping horses at peak performance ELLEN Collinson’s Super Iron product is recommended by racehorse trainers, eventers, show jumpers, dressage riders and hackers alike. It keeps horses looking good and at peak performance, even if the horse has had a hard campaign. It also has fantastic results for horses that need to look good under lights or who get judged on turn out. Many breeders swear by it when preparing yearling for the sales too. Super Iron is a high iron supplement with excellent conditioning powder. It improves coat, enriching colour, aiding appetite and general well being. There are many products on the market that contain iron, but nonherbal iron needs to be fed with caution. It can be harsh on the liver which can then lead to other problems. Super Iron, is made up of herbal iron
which is gentle on the system and has no side effects to the liver. The benefit of giving herbal iron is that due to the iron having already been digested and assimilated by the plant, it is much easier for the horse to absorb. Super Iron can be order directly from Ellen Collinson Herbal Products, via their website www.EllenCollinson.co.uk alternatively contact the office on 0845 260 3602. All products in the Ellen Collinson Herbal Products range contain no substances on the FEI and Jockey Club banned substance list so horses can compete whilst taking these products.
Firm sponsors training manual THREE specialist registrars from Liverpool are on their way to train medics supporting the equestrian events programme at the Olympics this summer. Össur has sponsored the development of a manual, Emergency Care at Equestrian Events, which will form the basis of a three-day pre-hospital training course for 150 doctors, nurses and paramedics in Beijing. Dan Perry said: “Given the shortage of training programmes designed specifically for the equestrian world, we decided to
establish a course designed for horse trials, using tailored techniques and the most advanced equipment. “We are looking forward to sharing our knowledge.” Trainees will learn all disciplines in the skills in managing equestrian trauma patients in the field. A focus on initial management of the severely injured casualty, including defining the priorities in management from acute life threatening interventions to patient handling will be covered.
Professor takes on Olympic role PROFESSOR Josh Slater of The Horse Trust’s Scientific Sub-Committee has been seconded as biosecurity adviser to the Olympic Games in Beijing. Professor Slater, who also sits on the African Horse Sickness Working Group, will be based in Hong Kong, where the equestrian events are focused. Three groups of people are involved in maintaining horse health during the Games - those who run the events ‘on the ground’, a group of vets mostly from the Hong Kong Jockey Club working alongside the international team vets and the International Equestrian Federation, which deals with the regulatory aspects of the competition including horse passports and random testing.
specified list of diseases; then a period of quarantine. All of Europe’s Olympian horses will gather at Stansted, complete with their health certificates, before flying to Hong Kong at the end of this month. On arrival, they will again enter quarantine in a purpose-built facility at the Hong Kong Jockey Club Sha Tin Racecourse, with air-conditioned insect proofed stables designed to minimise risk of disease transmission and with dedicated exercise grounds. Once safely through quarantine, it will be possible for the competitions begin.
Finally, Professor Slater will lead the group responsible for getting the international horses safely into Hong Kong and through quarantine.
Professor Slater said: “My work is to supervise the import and quarantine process in Hong Kong. “The Chinese authorities have appointed local advisers at collection hubs around the world who will work with the local animal health offices to deal with any issues that arise.
As with previous Olympic events, there is a stringent protocol to be observed before the horses are allowed to fly to Hong Kong.
“I will work with the Hong Kong government authorities to advise on any issues relating to biosecurity and infectious diseases that may emerge.
The first phase is testing and certification that they are free of a
“This is very exciting and I am thrilled to have the opportunity to do this.”
HORSE HEALTH I NEWS 7
Federation chairman is appointed By Louise Cordell KEITH Taylor has been appointed as the new chairman of the British Equestrian Federation. The current chairman, Hugh Thomas, decided to stand down after his first three year term in office and a BEF council ballot was held to choose between three potential candidates. Keith said: “I am delighted that the members of the council have hown their confidence in me to lead the board of directors as chairman. “I will be working very closely with them as the Federation and its member bodies take the next vital steps in building on the success achieved to date.” Keith Taylor is currently managing director and CEO of Guinness Nigeria
Plc and has 30 years of international managerial experience with Diageo Plc and Mars Inc. He has been awarded full University Colours for equestrian achievement and has had a lifelong involvement in equestrian sport. He also owns and is currently developing Seagry Stud as a breeding centre for dressage horses. Linda Whetstone, BEF council chair, said: “We were very pleased to have such strong candidates to choose from; it was a difficult decision but we were grateful that such well qualified people were prepared to stand. “I believe that Keith Taylor’s considerable management experience and his lifelong interest in different aspects of equestrian sport will be important assets in his new role.”
Five-year-old new recruit Nerston learns about drums encourage by more experienced mare Kilmamock Picture: Pam Scott
Bomb-proofing demo A DEMONSTRATION of how to bomb proof even the most nervous horse was put on by Strathclyde police for local BHS members.
bombproofed the horses and how they use drums, hooters and whistles to familiarise them with various sounds.
The mounted division gave the lecture demonstration to show how the horses dealt with flags, banners and noisy crowds during marches.
Mounted officer, constable Gillian Sleight, said: “When we purchase a potential police horse we have precisely four weeks to decide whether they are going to be up to the strains of the job, so we like to select a horse that is calm and placid and easily bribed by food. They also must have tremendous presence and be able to learn to stand still for hours. After that it is just a matter of practise.”
The show also gave an insight into the force’s training methods and ideas on how riders and owners could bombproof their own horses. Using everyday items such as plastic bags, a mattress and balls the officers showed how they
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HORSE HEALTH I NEWS
Editor’s insight...
Christine Keate
FOR international and professional riders the competition season never stops, but at a more grass roots level, now is the time horses and ponies are putting on their ‘Sunday best’ and travelling across the country to compete.
The Emerging Exotic Diseases seminar hosted speakers from across the world who collectively, clearly assessed the risks and preparations we have in place should WNV or African Horse Sickness arrive in the UK.
Whatever the level, it is our responsibility to minimise the risk of spreading disease, whether that be observing simple safe practice and not allowing ponies to graze around the showground, or drink out of communal troughs – one of the most common ways to pick up strangles, or when travelling internationally and strictly following quarantine and bio security procedures.
Duncan Hannant concludes his look at these diseases with an overview of AHS, and the seminar report adds the detail.
This month Horse Health focuses strongly on the transmission and control of disease.
Whilst many diseases remain beyond our control no matter how vigilant we are, one disturbing
Equine Influenza continues to threaten the industry, and we thank Mark Riggs of Merial for his explanation of how this virus continually evolves, and Alisdair King of Intervet, who examines the latest technology behind the development of vaccines.
recurrence is not. Professor Derek Knottenbelt details Crimean War Disease which although is not common, it is becoming more frequently seen, and is often the result of blatant neglect. Ignorance should not be an excuse for suffering and horse owners, along with others assuming responsibility for animals, clearly have a duty of care. On a lighter note, we are delighted to introduce a new regular feature, ‘Bloodstock Matters’ which launches with a report on thoroughbred foals and developmental orthopaedic disease, and with an interview with Louise Kemble, chief executive of the Thoroughbred Breeders’ Association, defining her role and that of the organisation.
Ragwort call to Jersey landowners Lucinda McAlpine
Richard Curtis
Show tickets up for grabs THE UK’s first ever Holistic Horse Show is taking place this autumn in Essex and Horse Health has four pairs of tickets to give away. The show is taking place on 24, 25 and 26 October and is dedicated to showing owners how the many aspects of holistic horse care can transform their relationship with their horse. Highlights will include international dressage rider Lucinda McAlpine providing a dressage to music display and a loose jumping demonstration
to highlight the importance of ‘play’ in teaching horses to jump, equine biomechanist Gillian Higgins from Horses Inside Out, taking visitors on an anatomical journey showing how the equine body works and leading western rider David Deptford and his Sovereign quarter horses joining up with canine freestyle handler Richard Curtis for a unique demonstration. For your chance to win a pair of tickets send your name and address on a postcard to Horse Health Magazine, 47 Church Street, Barnsley, South Yorkshire S70 2AS.
LANDOWNERS in Jersey are being asked by the government to take action to control ragwort. The Environment Department has said that the weed is spreading rapidly because of the current weather conditions and is becoming a serious threat to the island’s livestock. The island's farmers have been warned that the plant is very difficult to remove once it has become established, producing seeds that can stay dormant in the soil for up to 20 years. Deputy Anne Pryke, assistant minister of planning and environment said: “As in previous years we would advise that preventing the spread of this
injurious weed is important for the wellbeing of the island’s grazing animals, and landowners and occupiers should take all measures to assist in its control.” The authorities have also pointed out that applying herbicides can temporarily make ragwort more appealing to grazing stock. Wilting makes the plant more palatable and most poisonings occur after eating contaminated hay, silage or dried grass. Finally, landowners have been reminded that control of ragwort is a legal responsibility of the occupier and if necessary, notices can be served and regulatory action taken to prevent its spreading.
Feeding and nutrition
Finding a patch of mould in hay or haylage is not generally a cause for concern, however with mycotoxins becoming an increasing threat, Alltech UK offers its advice.
Mycotoxins – the hidden danger Mycotoxins can occur on growing, harvested or stored cereal and forage crops.
broodmares, veterans, performance horses, poor doers or sick equines for example.
Invisible to the naked eye, these toxic chemicals are produced by some types of mould growth under certain environmental conditions.
What can I do to protect my horse?
Mycotoxin poisoning has the potential to suppress the immune system and cause a wide range of conditions, ranging from sub clinical symptoms such as general lack of form, hypersensitivity and loss of well-being, through to possible liver damage and, in cases of severe exposure, death. They have also been cited as a possible factor in Grass Sickness. As a known hazard to human and animal health, mycotoxins are significant enough to warrant regulation to limit their presence in food intended for humans or animals. However, one of the key difficulties in identifying risk is that mycotoxins can be present in feed or forage without the presence of mould. Equally, not all mould growth indicates the presence of mycotoxins. Should I be concerned? Just as we live with various strains of unfriendly bacteria, so we must expect to come into contact with mycotoxins. However, just as some bacteria have the ability to cause harm in certain circumstances, so high levels of exposure to mycotoxins, or exposure in more vulnerable equines, can result in some sort of negative reaction. Risk groups include those whose immune system may already be under pressure such as youngstock,
More equine specific research is required, but leading figures in the industry agree that it is an area requiring attention. In the meantime, horse owners can follow some basic precautions to help reduce potential exposure to mycotoxins: Quality first – always feed good quality cereals, compound feeds and forage from a reputable source, store in a cool dry place and do not use beyond the sell-by date. Boost the immune system – a balanced diet with good levels of antioxidant vitamins, prebiotics and yeast cultures, can aid general health and boost immunity. Haylage – experts recommend using inoculants plus stabilizers to reduce the presence of mycotoxins occurring during manufacture, big bales should be well wrapped with at least six layers of plastic and open bales should be used within two to three days. Hay &– mycotoxins occur in damp, humid and drought conditions and are more prevalent on mature crops, so hay is more prone to a higher level of contamination than haylage. Be aware of harvesting conditions and check that hay was fully dried before baling. Hygienic practices – keep feed, water buckets and feed bins clean as incidence of contamination has been found on feed/water buckets, as well as feed bins that have not been emptied properly before refilling.
HORSE HEALTH I 11
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HORSE HEALTH I
Feeding and nutrition
Careful monitoring of the foal’s growth is key to successful weaning Picture: Rocks Farm Stud
Good preparation is key By Jane Buchan THE key to successful weaning lies in good preparation. Correct nutrition is one aspect of that preparation which can start whilst the foal is still suckling and which is not only important for the general well-being of the foal, but can have particular implications for its future.
The Evolving Digestive Tract: Horses, like other mammals, are dependant on enzymes to break down nutrients. Enzymes are specific to different nutrients and ingredients so their levels will vary according to the horse’s diet. Young mammals start with increased levels of lactase, the enzyme that digests milk, which gradually declines as levels of other enzymes increase. At around three to four months of age the foal is beginning to be able to digest cereal grains and legumes (soya, beans and peas) more efficiently, as levels of amylase and protease enzymes are increasing. This is the time to introduce the foal to traditional concentrate feeds, encouraging the gradual change of the system and helping reduce the risk of digestive upsets, and associated drop of condition, when the milk supply is removed.
Supporting Growth: There is often a reluctance to feed
foals, particularly those who are naturally good-doers, for fear of causing growth problems, with protein wrongly labelled as the culprit. It is now recognised that it is a high energy (calorie) intake with insufficient minerals which can lead to these problems, as this creates an increased rate of growth without the nutrients required to build the tissues to support the growth. Monitoring your youngster’s growth, by regular weightaping and plotting the rate of growth on a chart, can act as an early warning system to highlight potential growth-related problems. Youngsters that are growing very rapidly will produce an upright curve which is an indication that the energy content of the diet may need to be reduced. Conversely, a very flat curve suggests that the foal is not growing and would benefit from additional calories, which can be supplied by a milk-based creep feed up to three months of age and then by a traditional stud feed.
Keep it Steady: Maintaining a steady rate of growth is essential to try to avoid the dangers of growth problems, which affect the growing skeleton and associated tissues and which could ultimately have an effect on a foal’s soundness and ability to perform as an adult. Continued on Page 13
Feeding and nutrition
‘The welfare and nutrition of the mare should not be forgotten’ Continued from Page 12 So for foals who hold their condition well both before and during the weaning process, a specially formulated stud balancer is ideal, as this will provide essential protein, vitamins and minerals to support growth but with a minimal calorie content. For those who require some help in maintaining condition, a traditional stud mix or cube will provide additional calories but must be fed at recommended rates to supply the necessary supporting nutrients required. At the time of weaning, the foal should be receiving sufficient nutrients from a stud ration to maintain weight and consistent growth when the milk supply is removed.
Supporting the Gut: So, before the foal is finally separated from its dam it will be well established on its own concentrate diet and should also be eating grass and any other forage source which it will remain on after weaning. The fibre digesting and other hind gut bacteria of any horse can be disrupted by stressful situations with associated reductions in gut efficiency and potential digestive upsets like loose droppings. Feeding a digestive enhancer, such as a prebiotic, before, during and after the weaning process can help both the mare and the foal through the stressful time by supporting the beneficial bacterial populations and helping maintain a healthy balance in the gut.
What About the Mare? Having focused very much on getting things right for the weanling, the welfare and nutrition of the mare should not be forgotten. Once removed from the foal, the calorie content of her diet should be reduced until her milk supply has dried up, although it is preferable to keep a vitamin and mineral source available, like a specially formulated block or lick, or continue to feed a low calorie balancer. Her diet will then depend on
‘At the time of weaning, the foal should be receiving sufficient nutrients from a stud ration to maintain weight and consistent growth when the milk supply is removed’ whether she is in foal again, returning to work or simply remaining roughed off and also on how well she has maintained condition through lactation and weaning. If she is in foal again it is vital to feed to support the growing foetus so a stud mix or cube should be fed at recommended rates, or a stud balancer if fewer calories are required. Ensuring she receives a fully balanced diet at all times will help her replace the body reserves which have been drawn on by having a foal and help her return to work or prepare for the next covering.
Healthy Future: How you wean your foal will depend on your particular circumstances and how mare and foal cope with separation will depend on them as individuals. However by taking care beforehand, you can help reduce the stress and help ensure that both foal and dam have a strong and healthy future. I Jane Buchan is a nutritionist for Baileys Horse Feeds
HORSE HEALTH I 13
14
HORSE HEALTH I
Feeding and nutrition
Supplementary benefits for successful competition By Kate Jones TO achieve success you must not forget to keep your horse feeling in his prime and able to perform to his best on competition day. Nutritional support plays a large part in gaining peak athletic performance. One factot to consider when competing and travelling horses is replacing the lost salts from the system. Sodium chloride, that is, normal salt, is the most important and some horses should be supplemented daily year round. But for those working harder and traveling regularly you should upgrade basic salt to electrolytes, which provide all four body salts, ie. sodium, calcium, potassium and magnesium. Failure to replace these body salts can affect the thirst mechanism by failure to replace lost water, thus leaving the horse prone to dehydration. There may also be a loss of appetite. Ultimately repetitive, excessive
sweating can lead to demineralisation, depriving muscle, bone and cartilage of the nutrients essential to post-exercise repair. Of course clean, fresh water should also always be available. Electrolytes can be fed in feed or water, but training your horse, while still at home, to take them in the water can help to disguise the taste of different water when you’re staying away from home. However, electro salts are not the only nutrients lost in sweat. Iron, an essential trace element, is lost at a rate of around 25mg per litre of sweat. Performance increases both the requirement for iron, by up to 40 per cent, and at the same time the amount lost through sweat, thus it may be beneficial to supplement your competition horse if he shows signs of iron deficiency. Anaemia is the most obvious sign of iron deficiency, which shows itself in the horse as lack of stamina,
The correct nutrition can help performance on competition day. laboured breathing and poor performance. Iron deficiency should be obvious in any blood test taken, if you are taking veterinary advice for performance in your horse. Anaemia is also a factor in post exercise recovery, which is important if your horse may be required to work all weekend at the championships. If using an iron supplement for stamina in your competing horse ensure it also contains the B group vitamins, particularly folic acid and vitamin B12, as these are necessary for haemoglobin production in the blood which transports oxygen to the muscles and, hence, also vital to stamina and performance. Transport stress: A significant consideration when competing some distance away is the stress of traveling your horse. It has been suggested that every mile a horse is transported by road is equivalent to him hacking that distance. So remember to allow your
horse sufficient time to recover from traveling before asking him to compete. The longer the journey the greater the risk of travel related respiratory stress, triggered by the enclosed atmosphere, shared air space, stress of traveling and increased temperatures. Don’t tie your horse too short, as standing with his head held high doesn’t allow natural drainage from the nostrils. Horses at particular risk from travel stress are those with a history of respiratory disease, and those traveling particularly long distances. If your horse is at risk from a travel bug then consider supporting lung function with naturally sourced antioxidants to flush out the associated toxins from the system. The risk of respiratory stress is also increased by traveling too quickly after exertion, so give your horse chance to recover well from his classes before heading home.
I Kate Jones BSc(Hons) is nutritionist at NAF
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HORSE HEALTH I NEWS
Trials’ priority is animal welfare THE welfare of the competing horses is a top priority for Burghley Horse Trials and a large team of experts is constantly on hand to make sure they are well taken care of. FEI veterinary delegates are available in the warm up and finishing areas, in the site stables and teams of vets covering every section of the cross country course. On top of this there are private veterinary surgeons who are there looking after individual or team horses. Burghley FEI veterinary delegate, Michael Gibson, said: “Animal welfare is the top priority for us. “We cannot allow anyone to compete on an unfit or lame horse. “There are various inspections along the line – when the horses arrive there is a health inspection and we ensure that their vaccinations comply with FEI regulations. “Then there is a public inspection on Wednesday by the Ground Jury assisted by the veterinary delegates and any horses that are not fit to go on are failed and out of the competition or, if there is any uncertainty, they are held for a more
‘There are various inspections along the line – when the horses arrive there is a health inspection and we ensure that their vaccinations comply with FEI regulations’ in depth check. “We are looking to see if there is anything wrong that will affect the animal over the events of the next few days.” Checks are also carried out at the end of the cross country course with temperature, heart and respiratory rates being taken and any immediate injuries dealt with. Horses are usually kept in the finishing arena to cool off until the vets are happy that they are in a satisfactory condition to be allowed back to the stables. Any animal that is found to be particularly distressed is taken back to the stables by horse ambulance. These ambulances are also
positioned at various points throughout the course so that any horse can be transported back quickly in case of injury. There is a veterinary clinic there where horses can be dealt with in peace and quiet away from the general public, with x-rays and scanners available if needed. All normal procedures can be carried out, however if it is a question of serious surgery under general anesthetic then they will be transferred to Newmarket or back to the owner’s own veterinary surgeon. In the case of any injury, or suspected injury, it is up to the vets to decide if the horse is fit to carry on in the competition.
Michael added: “Obviously there is pressure on the rider to want to continue, especially if they are competing as part of a team, but our top priority is the horse. “On the course you are in the referees position of having to make very rapid decisions. “Just like anything else, once you see the replay you may think you could have done things differently, but there is a lot of pressure as your decision may have considerable bearings on both the rider and horse in that competition and in the future. “I always try to be as diplomatic as possible, emotions are always running high, but we always keep the animal’s welfare as our top priority. “We also have considerable expert back up on site, so we can get second and third opinions on any tricky situations which is very useful. “It also helps that mostly the competitors are very knowledgeable and very experienced. “We are able to communicate any problems to them easily and they are always more concerned with the horse’s welfare than anything else.”
HORSE HEALTH I NEWS 17
Aromatherapy and its potential benefits for horses By Violaine Chassaing
AROMATHERAPY involves the use of essential oils to prevent or cure illnesses and improve health and wellbeing. It is a remarkably effective natural therapy, which relies on the relationship between the active principles contained in essential oils and the therapeutic properties deriving there from. They are 100 per cent natural substances and are particularly well suited to horses due to their great sensitivity and their acute sense of smell. Using essential oils nevertheless requires in-depth knowledge, given their high concentration and active principles. The same plant can produce essences of completely different composition in its various organs or depending on the location or conditions in which it grows. Therefore it is crucial to know the exact origin of the essential oil before using it for any therapeutic purpose. In this context, modern science provides us with an essential tool, the ‘chemotype’, which defines the precise biochemical components present in an essential oil and its therapeutic properties. If two chemotypes are biochemically different, even if they have originated from the same plant, they will present
different therapeutic activities and variable toxicities. Essential oils have many other properties such as insect repellent, anti-dandruff, draining, digestive, tonic and energising properties. They can also have an effect on the psyche through olfaction. For example, some of them will be helpful for fearful, anxious or irritable horses, for over excited stallions, to help regulate heats of a mare, to facilitate weaning of a foal or improve certain behavioural problems like tics. Conclusion: While it is clear that essential oils can be very beneficial for the health and well-being of horses, it is important to emphasise that they are extremely powerful and that they may, even through they are 100 per cent natural, potentially be harmful if used without in-depth knowledge. It is perfectly possible to safely use certain essential oils to remedy minor ailments of the horse on a day to day basis, however any intention to treat a more serious condition will require the intervention of a qualified aromatherapist, acting in association with a veterinarian. Essential oils nevertheless remain a wonderful tool to help prevent illness and stimulate the body’s self healing capabilities. I Violaine Chassaing is managing director of Horsessentials Ltd
Know your oils ... These are some examples of the main properties of essential oils, examples and the main potential application for horses. However, please note that some of the oils mentioned require precautions for use and you should always get advice from a qualified aromatherapist before using essential oils, or use ready made products. Main Properties: antibacterial, antifungal Example Oils: cinnamon, oregano, tea tree, clove, thyme Indications for Horses: bacterial/fungal skin affections, bacterial respiratory affections, thrush Main Properties: antiparasitic Example Oils: ajowan, clove, tea tree, Atlas cedar, Roman chamomile
Indications for Horses: parasitic skin affections, intestinal parasites Main Properties: antispasmodic Example Oils: basil, tarragon, lavender, wintergreen, Italian everlasting Indications for Horses: stiff muscles, recovery after workouts, dry coughs and intestinal spasms Main Properties: antiallergic Example Oils: tarragon, blue tansy, Roman chamomile Indications for Horses: respiratory and skin allergies Main Properties: healing Example Oils: lavender, Italian everlasting, rockrose, myrrh Indications for Horses: burns, small injuries, cracked skin, skin inflammations and irritations
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HORSE HEALTH I
Breeding matters
Pictures: Sue Carden
The Strategy for the Horse Industry in England and Wales calls for the setting-up of lead bodies for different sectors of the breeding industry. Their job will be to ‘capitalise on data contained in the National Equine Database, to help improve the quality and breeding of our horses and ponies and to better select animals for breeding’. The British Equestrian Federation’s head of equine development, Jan Rogers, explains how.
More data for better breeding At one end of the spectrum it is the intention to reduce the incidence of indiscriminate breeding, the products of which are more likely to become welfare cases and, at the other, to support the continual improvement of British bred sport horses and ponies and to recognise and sustain the quality of our native and indigenous breeds. The Thoroughbred Breeders’ Association is the lead body for breeding in the racing thoroughbred sector, the British Horse Society’s Horse and Pony Breeds Committee for the native, indigenous and recreational sectors, and British Performance Sport Horses and Ponies for that sector. Some breeders are extremely wellinformed and able to find information on available sires, their grading data, performance records, and those of their siblings and progeny. However, not everyone has this understanding, so the information needs to be more readily available in order for breeders to decide on potential parings to increase the likelihood of the next generation being successful in competition and/or in the breeding barn. The new National Equine Database, with its Government funded development, and data provided by the eighty plus UK Passport Issuing Organisations and competition disciplines will be a data reservoir.
Equine identification, pedigree, performance and grading data will be available for every horse registered in the UK. A mechanism is also developing for the inclusion of horses residing in the UK with passports and registration documents from other European Union countries. Once logged on to NED Online, which will be available as soon as there is sufficient data, users will, for example, be able to research a particular sire, his pedigree, view his siblings, progeny, and his progeny’s progeny. They can review his performance data to build a more detailed picture of his ability to pass on his own genetic merit for particular disciplines, and levels of performance, to the next generations. The same information will also be available for the dam line. If the plan is to breed successful eventers for the amateur rider, the user may look for combinations to decide which dam line crosses best with which sire line to produce those excelling at novice and intermediate level, with the temperament and disposition to be marketable to that sector. If the plan is to breed top flight dressage horses, a different set of NED reports will inform those breeding decisions.
Reports available to download from NED Online will include lifetime performance indices for competition and show horses (known as NPI’s or NED performance indices) - provided by the performance disciplines such as British Eventing, British Show Jumping Association and British Dressage. Grading data will be provided by studbooks, both for stallions and mares, including racing results and evaluation data provided by the BEF’s Futurity evaluations.
In excess of 500 young performance sport horses and ponies will be assessed this year, and, there will be an increasing capacity to include any verified data for which people have a need, if there is a body to supply it. Aligning itself with the Strategy for the Horse Industry, the BEF’s mission to breed ‘more horses’ means in fact that we aim to breed ‘better quality horses’ and very soon, the tools will be more readily available in support of this mission.
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Otto THE Bavarian company Otto Sport will provide high-tech riding surfaces in the ‘Kentucky Horse Park’ arenas which will be the venue for the 2010 World Equestrian Games. Experienced in the construction of riding arenas for more than 20 years,
Eskadron the family-run company started building a Main Stadium measuring almost 70,000 sq ft. and a warm-up arena of about 19,500 sq ft in July. For the 2010 Games, the construction of another Outdoor Stadium and two warm-up arenas is intended. The secret of the special riding surface is invisible, the Otto Sport Riding Mat System set under the sand layer is
characterized by excellent drainage features so the arena can be used even after persistent precipitation. Among professional and leisure riders, the Otto perforated mat is also valued for its non-slip properties and the ability to absorb shock. Therefore, safety of both horse and rider is ensured. The qualities of the new arena will be proved during several high-level competitions that will take place prior to the World Equestrian Games: The Rolex Kentucky Three-Day Event, the largest annual equine competition held at the Kentucky Horse Park, is one of the challenges in the spring of 2009.
THE Flexisoft Pro-Safe Boot is the latest development in Eskadron’s Ludger Beerbaum Flexisoft range. Still with the revolutionary integrated flexible zone for optimum movement, the Pro-Safe has a double wrap-around shell, giving extra protection and support, along with a second velcro fastening section for maximum stability and security. The inner padding is anatomically formed for an even better fit around the tendons and ergot. The boot is available in front tendon and hind fetlock in Black, White; Grey; and Navy.
Pegasus horse shoes THIS new product from Pegasus Horseshoes Ltd has been manufactured from high quality British steel with superior wear resistant properties to withstand extreme abrasion. The high durability range of shoes are most suitable for horses engaged in long periods of roadwork which generates rapid wear in the cheap
For the horse they normalise time between shoeing, for the horse owner they reduce shoeing cost and for the farrier they offer an opportunity to promote extra business.
common mild steel imported shoes largely obtainable throughout the UK. The initial concept was developed for carriage horses, it was found after six months trial most horses achieved double the time between shoeing, this success was also repeated on hunters.
Pegasus has in stock a complete range of shoes made from four sections of steel to suit most working horse and pony.
The benefits of the Pegasus H.D. range of shoes are three fold.
Equine Bowen Therapy TRAIN to give pain relief with Equine Bowen Therapy. Lotty Merry, Equine Bowen Therapist and tutor, explains how this gentle, yet highly effective, hands-on therapy, can be used to help alleviate a number of
ailments, including sore and painful muscles, backs, shoulders, poll and flexion issues, lameness, plus range of movement restrictions. Bowen also helps to realign internally, including the respiratory (dust allergies, head shaking), lymphatic (improved immune system) and reproductive systems. Thumbs and fingers are used to create a rolling move, allowing opening of the fascia beneath the skin, which helps the correct messages
Uvisport to be received by the brain. Bowen also provides a great de-tox, cleansing the system of toxin built up A course of three treatments, one week apart are recommended initially, with follow up maintenance treatments every few months which helps with injury prevention. Horses with behavioural issues or experienced trauma, either mental or physical, benefit greatly often resulting in positive character changes. During training at Rose Farm College of Equine Studies in Somerset, an Equine Bowen Therapy (EBT) student will cover the full Bowen Treatment, plus relevant topics including saddle fitting, hoof care, nutrition, dentistry, stretch routine and strengthening exercises.
UVISPORT is a range of sunscreen designed for people with outdoor hobbies or jobs. The convenient delivery methods of single sachets and lip screen on a lanyard means it is practical and easy to use. . The lipscreen even has an indicator cap that turns red to indicate dangerous levels of UVA. The lotion is easily absorbed and nongreasy making it very quick to apply
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Terra-vac
Belstane
TERRA-VAC machines have been specially designed for over 25 years for clearing horse droppings, soiled stable bedding, acorns, leaves, hedge clippings, grass cuttings and general debris around the yard.
racecourses and studs of not only the UK but Europe, New Zealand and Australia.
The Terra-Vac Colt can be easily towed by a ride-on mower or ATV.
Not only for keeping paddocks free of droppings; it is ideal for scarifying therefore enhancing growth for good grazing.
It is powered by a 13hp petrol engine, 10hp diesel engine or PTO driven. The Colt is as efficient at clearing open areas with its ground scoop as it is in tricky confined spaces with it’s wander hose. For larger requirements the PTO driven Terra-Vac Stud models are ideal. It is the first choice of many
The Terra-Vac All Purpose Sweeper is the professional approach to clearing extensive areas.
This model has a 7m? hopper capacity and can cover up to 10 acres per hour. With the high cost of fuel some engine driven machines can cost ÂŁ6 per hour to run adding up to thousands of pounds per year, however, all Terra-Vacs can be PTO driven, reducing costs to a minimum./
Equine Speedskip THE Equine Speedskip is an innovative British made product produced using high quality materials and designed to reduce workload, bedding costs and time spent mucking out stables, paddocks and menages. It is of a robust construction with a generous sized scoop having a wide opening for ease of filling and large holding capacity. The rake is strong and versatile and has been specially designed to be the correct length to make it very effective
for collecting heavy waste and minimising back strain. As the rake is so quick and easy to use it not only speeds up mucking out, but enables only the manure to be removed, helping to reduce bedding and manage surface wastage. As many horses are now turned out for the summer the Equine Speedskip has proved to be brilliant on pastures, again making the process quicker and easier.
BELSTANE’S Country Essentials range includes a wide selection of clever portable storage ideas from bottle coolers and cooler bags that clip on to the saddle to hanging organisers and bucket organisers to keep all your necessities at hand. The range comes in a selection of colours, some bags coming in various prints such as camo and horse shoe
designs. There is also the option of teaming up the bags with matching MuckBoots and Heritage gloves.
Monarch MONARCH Equestrian are specialist manufacturers of internal stables and horse exercisers and were established in 1964. A family business, which has the benefits of expertise in both engineering and equestrian fields. The owners are life long horse owners, competitors and breeders and have combined this knowledge to develop many innovative products. The latest design, the Monarch Barn, has been well received across the equestrian world. The modular design provides an affordable way of providing a high quality internal barn system, which can be tailored to meet a variety of needs. The unique use of a bronze tinted
polycarbonate roof gives a very light and airy feel to the whole building, the filtered light means that the building remains cool in summer and warm in winter and, added to this, special attention has been given to ventilation, so often a problem in internal barns. Built it roof ventilation is supplemented by large double entrance doors at either end of the building and the option for each stable to have external top opening doors or windows, so even in the hottest weather a good air flow can be maintained.
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Equisorb EQUISORB, the premium quality flax bedding, has numerous attributes which make it particularly attractive to commercial yards. To start with, the extremely high absorbency makes mucking out simple and speedy as wet areas need only be removed once or twice a week.
Absorb-a-bed traditional materials) so muck removal costs are minimised. Plus, in most stables, once the bed is established less than one bale of bedding per stable per week is all that is required. Due to the introduction of a direct delivery system, yards purchasing significant quantities may now also make further savings. Customers purchasing a minimum of 378 bales can be supplied direct from the continent. This arrangement minimises transport and storage costs and the resultant savings are passed to the customer. This development has been inspired by Robert Henson, whose name will be familiar to many, as he has spent half a lifetime researching and marketing bedding materials.
Consequently labour costs diminish and the muck heap reduces dramatically in size (compared with
Consequently his knowledge and expertise in this area are second to none and there are few persons more capable of offering advice and support in this field.
Tuffa THE Tuffa range has always catered extremely well for a wide range of boot and chap sizes, with many footwear styles available up to a man’s 15 (Eur 50) and chaps and gaiters
fitting up to a 20 inch calf. The chaps also include sizes for the shorter leg which are available in all widths.
ABSORB-A-BED is a highly absorbent bedding produced to give you dryer, cleaner horses. It is ten times more absorbent than straw, and five times more absorbent than shavings or flax. As a result Absorb-a-Bed extends the life of your bedding, cuts down your muck heap by 50 per cent and greatly reduces stable odour. Absorb-a-Bed can be used on rubber mats, with small amounts of bedding needed once the initial bed is laid. For deep beds it can be used in conjunction with your regular bedding as an absorbent. Absorb-a-Bed is made from the short fibres of paper re-cycling; therefore we effectively make use of a waste
product. Thus it is environmentally friendly, 100 per cent biodegradable and can be spread onto your land. The initial wet paper sludge is processed and heat treated to 94 per cent dry matter for comfortable, hygienic bedding which is available all year round.
Equicast EQUICAST can be used as a ‘spare tyre’, applied by the owner, until a farrier can replace a shoe. It can also be used therapeutically to restore hoof wall integrity: as in long toe low heel syndrome, quarter cracks, shelly feet and white line disease. Much depends on what is needed and one’s level of knowledge. It works by adding temporary support in three areas, firstly at the widest part of the hoof between the first nail and the last nail holes, secondly by increasing ground contact in the heels and frog area (caudal support), and finally by managing lateral expansion the medial wall supports the lateral wall. It is different from conventional shoeing methods as it supports the whole hoof capsule as well as the bottom of the hoof. Equicast can be applied in three different ways, on a hoof where they shoe in then glued or nailed on, over any kind of shoes or on to a bare foot; each method addressing a specific problem.
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Eqilibrium APART from their legs, the most vulnerable part of the performance horse’s anatomy is its back. Not designed to take a rider’s weight, and required to flex both horizontally and vertically during work, many horses suffer from back pain and stiffness. A holistic approach to protecting your horse’s back will optimise not only his physical performance, but can also be enormously beneficial for his relaxation and recovery after work. Use of the Equilibrium Therapy Massage Pad has been clinically proven to improve flexibility and stride length in horses without any diagnosed back stiffness. Easy to use, effective and extremely affordable, the Eqilibrium Therapy Massage Pad is ideal for use on horses recovering from injury or with back problems, or simply to maintain suppleness and performance in competition horses. Combining use of the Massage Pad with the Therapy Magnetic Back Pad and Magnetic Quarters Pad will further enhance healing and the wellbeing of your horse. The Vitaflex magnets used in the Therapy Magnetic range work by using strong, circular and permanent
magnetic fields of alternating pole sequences. This increases magnetic charge to the cell membrane, thereby improving the cells ability to regenerate. Magnetic Therapy is ideal for horses recovering from injury, stiffness, arthritis or those that are sensitive and cold backed and, together with the Therapy Massage Pad, will help to keep your horse’s back in tip-top shape so he can perform to the best of his ability.
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Vaccinations
HORSE HEALTH I
Innovations and advances in equine vaccine development By Alasdair King
area.
IN the fight against new strains of existing equine viruses and the threat of diseases which were previously not endemic to an area, such as West Nile Virus in the UK, continual research and development is essential. However, the development of new vaccines is a multi-layered process, which can take up to 11 years and cost in excess of £60m, so it is little wonder that there are only a handful of companies operating in this field, and few with the facilities to bring vaccines to market, from concept to field.
Some modern ‘flu vaccines still incorporate adjuvants of early vaccines, such as aluminium.
Once a vaccine is developed, it must be authorised by the relevant body to ensure it is safe, is of a high quality, and that it’s efficacious. Safety is always paramount, and the animal, owner, user and environment are considered in the preparation of any new product.
However, developments in vaccine research have led to other adjuvants being identified and deployed, such as carbomers (acrylic acid). These traditional adjuvants rely on producing a depot from which antigen is released over time and which may cause irritation at the site. One of the latest developments in vaccine technology is ISCOM-Matrix, a biological delivery system, which doesn’t rely on a depot. It stimulates the immune system and transports the antigen to key sites in the body to encourage the production of circulating antibodies. Unlike a depot vaccine, which can last for weeks to months, 95 per cent of the vaccine is removed from the injection site within hours.
Vaccine Developments: A key element in vaccine development has been to improve delivery systems and vaccine research now concentrates heavily in this
The Chimera story: Whilst in the UK most of the current interest is in vaccine developement for equine flu, the very real threat of
‘Once a vaccine is developed, it must be authorised by the relevant body to ensure it is safe, is of a high quality, and that it’s efficacious. Safety is always paramount, and the animal, owner, user and environment are considered in the preparation of any new product’
more exotic diseases makes work taking place further afield increasingly important. One exciting development in vaccine technology in recent years has come about using elements of one of the first effective human vaccines, an attenuated vaccine for Yellow Fever. The Yellow Fever vaccine, using a strain YF-17D which cannot cause disease, is well documented as having a high level of safety and efficacy. West Nile Virus is a viral disease which affects the central nervous system and causes encephalitis in infected horses. West Nile Virus was previously seen only in Africa, Asia and Southern Europe, but is now endemic in the US. The virus is carried by birds and is spread by the bite of an infected mosquito. It has been reported in humans and horses, although there is no clinical evidence to suggest that it can be directly transmitted between species. Whilst no cases have been reported in the UK, the increased risk of exotic
diseases due to climate change and international movement of animals have made West Nile Virus of key interest to the UK. WNV has become the focus for new technologies in vaccine development for both horses and humans, and has resulted in the first vaccine to use chimera technology. A chimera vaccine is created by combining elements of two similar viruses to create a vaccine which will not cause disease but stimulates a strong immune response. WNV and Yellow Fever share very similar characteristics, and it has therefore been possible to create a vaccine against WNV by taking the attenuated human yellow fever vaccine strain and replacing sections of the virus wall with fragments of the structural cells of WNV. This technique is currently available in an equine vaccine produced in the US by Intervet/Schering Plough Animal Health, and is also being developed to create a human vaccine, putting chimera amongst the most exciting developments in veterinary medicine in recent years. Whilst there may not seem to be a current need for a WNV vaccine in the UK, the development of modern chimera technology ensures that should the worst happen, the multimillion pound equine industry would have some protection. It is this safety net that is at the core of all effective vaccine development – identifying where there may be a need and where there is an answer to that need. I Alasdair King BVMS, CertVOphthal, MRCVS is veterinary manager at Intervet/Schering-Plough Animal Health
Vaccinations
HORSE HEALTH I 25
Although last year’s equine influenza (EI) outbreak in Australia entered a naive ‘flu free’ population, there were also outbreaks in countries that have vaccination programmes in place. Mark Riggs explains why EI continues to pose a threat, and what we can do to help minimise the chances of encountering the disease in the UK.
Why complacency is not an option ... By Mark Riggs BVetMed MRCVS of Merial Animal Health LAST year in the UK there were a number of EI infections recorded and with less than half of our equine population receiving regular vaccinations, ongoing protection and vigilance is essential in order to keep this continually evolving disease at bay. Human influenza demonstrates how quickly the virus can change and adapt; as a result the vaccines are updated on a yearly basis. This is due to influenza’s ability to mutate and change over time, a process called Antigenic drift. These changes, or drifts, allow the influenza virus to evade and overcome the immune system and remain circulating in a given population. It is one of the major reasons why EI outbreaks continue to occur throughout the world. To understand this drift process we need to look at the virus itself. *See Fig. 1 and Fig. 2 There are two major surface proteins used by the virus to aid the infection process. Haemagglutinin (H) receptors attach the virus to the respiratory system, and Neuraminidase (N) receptors allow the virus to get into the cell to start
reproducing. Following infection or immunisation with vaccines, the horse’s immune system recognises the H receptor as the target to attack. However, changes in the shape of these receptors can have devastating consequences. Viruses with changed H receptor shapes are much more capable of evading the immune system and causing clinical disease. Different H and N components make up the influenza viruses in different species and certain viruses have evolved to be capable of infecting more than one species. It is this recombination of different H and N components that is known as Antigenic Shift, and has been responsible for some of the recent human influenza epidemics.
Developing strains: The H component is the primary target for the immune system and is therefore the active ingredient in all equine vaccines. So any changes in its structure (antigenic drift) are closely monitored by an international Expert Surveillance Panel (ESP) which is run under the umbrella of the World
Organisation for Animal Health (known as the Office International des Epizooties, or OIE). Through this surveillance and analysis a detailed picture of outbreaks over the years has been formulated and continues to be constantly updated. The more closely vaccine strains are matched to field strains the more specific the protection offered. As a result of this continual update, the ESP periodically makes recommendations for all manufacturers of equine vaccines to include these recent strains. The similarity between some strains means it is not necessary to include every one in the vaccine. However, some vaccines contain strains from as early as 1956, others as recently as 2003. As time passes and the influenza virus continues to evolve, the protection offered by the older vaccine strains will diminish. Therefore, through the process of antigenic drift, regular vaccine updates are required to maximise protection. As in the human field, constant vigilance is required to monitor how this highly infectious equine virus is changing.
Above: Figure 1 and left: Figure 2
In an outbreak in Newmarket in 2003, a particularly virulent strain caused clinical signs of EI, even in horses assumed to be protected by traditional vaccines. One of the key factors thought to be at the root of this was a field and vaccine strain miss-match. The South African outbreak in 2003 brought horse racing to a standstill, and the major Australian outbreak last year demonstrated just how rapidly this disease can spread. Infected airborne droplets along with contaminated tack and equipment can lead to an outbreak situation within a matter of days.
Be prepared: With the ever increasing international travel of our horse population the risk of equine influenza remains high and we should all be prepared as best we can. Owners, vets and vaccine manufacturers who have a responsibility to maximise the protection offered by vaccination, must take responsibility. It is not just the travelling competitor who is at risk, the retiree in the field is equally susceptible.
26
GOING FOR GOLD
The difference between being very good and being world class is the smallest of margins. Competitively only a very few make that final toughest push, to take them onto the world class stage. The basic ingredients all have to be in place to be a contender, natural talent, commitment and, in the equine world, the right horses. Twenty-year-old International show jumper, Ryan Prater, has proved he has all of these attributes and Horse Health are following his progress in a series of features, as he reviews his practices and attends to the fine tuning, which he hopes will help him make that transition.
The risk level of jumping can be minimised by taking into account the condition of the horse and the ground. Pictures: Sue Carden
New technology has led to a huge variety of boots on the market.
Attending to the details ... By Christine Keate TERRY Horgan of Baskerville Horgan and Partners, the equine arm of the Hampden Veterinary Hospital, has been Ryan’s vet for as long as he can remember. As a former member of the Irish three-day event team, Terry’s interest and experience in the management of competition horses provides vital support to Ryan and his team. He said: “Any of the top riders will say that there are only so many rounds a horse will jump in his lifetime. “The knack is to minimise the impact of these by assessing the risk level, taking into account the condition of the horse, what is at stake, and the condition of the ground. “If a rider goes into a jump off knowing the chances of winning are for some reason greatly reduced, he will change his tactics to jump a steadier less stressful round than if he was likely to win. “The work is done however, long before that stage is reached. “The current show jumper type is a strong bodied, propulsive horse, which needs a big muscle mass in order to perform. “A 550kg horse landing over a fence will exert 652kg of force per square metre. “Genetics and breeding will dictate the inherent level of ability, but only if the training, technique, conditioning and the temperament
of the horse, together with the ground conditions on the day are all optimised, will the horse be consistently successful. “With regard to supporting joint function, less damage is likely to occur when the horse is fit and fuelled to do the job. “Adequate nutrition is vital, most manufacturers have feeds targeted specifically at the competition horse, and nutritionists who are able to advise on the finer details. “One of the key problems faced by show jumpers is cartilage degeneration. Surrounding the bone ends, cartilage allows joints to articulate easily and smoothly, and protects by absorbing the shock from movement. “Excessive strain can cause degeneration, and pain, if the bones are no longer protected from contacting with each other. “The body then responds by creating more bone which worsens the problem.” There are a variety of products on the market to improve the regeneration of cartilage within the joint. Look for those containing recommended levels of chondroitin and glucosamine. There is such a diversity of quality however, it is worth looking for one that has an identifiable source, and that is consistent in quantity and purity. Terry added: “Bandaging the legs
acts rather like a pair of support tights. “It keeps them warm, particularly at night, so the blood flows more easily, boosting circulation, which in turn is important to aid post competition recovery. “The same applies when travelling. “The care employed on a long journey home, is important. “Offering water regularly, changing the rugs and moderating the air flow will all impact on the rate, and extent of recovery. “Performance can be greatly impaired by any kind of chronic pain. “Correctly fitting tack will help reduce the incidence of low grade pain.
“Even boots should be horse specific. They mould to the legs and swapping them from horse to horse is a bit like wearing someone else’s shoes, even if they are the same size as your own, they do not feel as comfortable.” New technologies in the manufacture of boots, has lead to a huge variety on the market. The need to protect the limbs from over-reach injury has to be weighed against fact that anything on the legs is going to impair the horse’s ability to feel. Recent developments to reduce the transmission of shock from impact include incorporating into the boot, a shock absorbing film of polyurathene gel.
Ryan’s Update The hard work we have put in is now paying off. I took all my team to Addington and they were brilliant. Safaro, the new young stallion jumped a double clear in the second round of the Foxhunters and is now ready to move onto bigger tracks. Whisker jumped a double clear in the Grand Prix but I pulled him from the jump off, he did everything I asked of him and I wanted to save him for the Europeans. Otage also jumped double clears
and even though we were drawn first in the jump off he was so fast no one could touch him and we won the class. He also won at the Great Yorkshire Show, with Vinnie picking up second. Whisker proved his worth as a team horse at the Europeans. He had a pole in the first round, was off the boil a bit in the second, but jumped a fantastic fast clear in the final round which helped the team secure bronze. His next big outing will be on the Senior Team in the Nations Cup.
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HORSE HEALTH I
BEVA Preview
Congress attracts delegates from around the world FOR the first time BEVA congress will be in Liverpool at the newly opened Arena and Convention Centre. The convention centre is located on the banks of the famous Mersey River and offers state-of-the-art facilities. BEVA Congress is Europe’s preeminent equine veterinary congress attracting delegates and exhibitors from around the world and offering an exceptional scientific and social programme. There will be a five parallel session scientific programme retaining many of the successful features of previous congresses. The John Hickman Memorial lecture will be delivered by the worldrenowned equine neurologist Professor Joe Mayhew from Massey University and is titled ‘Equine neurology: watching horses behaving strangely’. New this year is the prestigious Sir Frederick Hobday lecture which will be given by Dean Richardson from the University of Pennsylvania, titled ‘They fix horses don’t they? – The
past, present and future of equine fracture repair’. In addition to which there will be sessions on palmar foot pain, foal orthopaedics and colic, ophthalmology and neurology, and reproduction. There will also be sessions on EIPH, and Dentistry, Diseases of the Paranasal Sinuses, and Anaesthesia and Analgesia in practice. There will be an infectious diseases update, including a report on the devastating Australian outbreak of Equine Influenza. The popular session on Imaging in Practice returns again this year, as does the ever popular Lameness Diagnosis Panel. There are also sessions in recent advances in Orthopaedics, Clinical Pathology and Cardiology, and Foal Care for the Practitioner. As in previous years there is a day of lectures dedicated to equine nursing, and there will also be a day of lectures on practice management.
BEVA congress is also well known for its lively, friendly social programme and this year the President’s Reception on the first evening of Congress heads for Morocco with guests being promised belly dancers and flying carpets. The evening starts with cocktails and supper will be a delicious feast of the complex flavours and subtle fragrances that characterise Moroccan dishes, which are inspired by African, Arabian and European cuisine. On the Thursday of Congress Virbac are inviting delegates to join them in
the celebration of their 40th birthday party and the following evening is the legendary BEVA dinner/dance. The evening begins with a drinks reception and live music followed by dinner and dancing to the early hours. Finally, the Farewell party is being held at a replica Cavern Club and the evening will celebrate the music of The Beatles. There will be an opportunity to tour the Beatles Museum then dinner followed by dancing to Beatles classics.
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HORSE HEALTH I
Crimean War Disease
Why early signs must not be ignored By Derek C Knottenbelt OBE, BVM&S, Dip ECEIM, MRCVS PROBABLY the most serious pastern and cannon dermatitis is the chronic, often debilitating form known as ‘Greasy Heel’ or Verrucose Pastern Dermatitis, which has been recognised historically, particularly in military horses, for hundreds of years. Although the disease remains rare, more cases are being reported and neglected cases are a common cause of cruelty investigations and prosecution. Many milder conditions become progressively more serious with secondary infection, exudation and skin maceration (derived either from exudate, poor conditions or inappropriate care). Several factors must combine together before the classical form of the disease develops. The disorder is almost exclusively restricted to horses with feathered legs and those with a high pastern circumference and tufted fetlocks are reported to be most liable and most severely affected. It affects white skinned legs far more frequently than coloured, but it is important to realise that coloured legs can be just as seriously affected.
A primary cause of skin inflammation: Frequently the horse will have suffered from leg mange, however bacterial infections, skin maceration by persistent soaking in water or mud, and skin irritation are often involved. Chronic self-trauma from rubbing and lack of skin hygiene are also commonly implicated, as is persistent neglect of the early signs of pastern dermatitis.
Itching adds to the trauma of the skin. resulting from vasculitis, self trauma and infection that are either overlooked, ignored or treated inappropriately.
by the odour of rotting flesh and the various degrees of matting, discoloration and greasy exudate on the limb hair.
This is the stage at which the course of the disease is dictated, as early recognition and aggressive, persistent treatment will resolve the problem.
There is usually significant secondary self trauma, infection and skin exudation with maceration.
In verrucose pastern dermatitis the underlying cause is usually a winter condition, but heat, flies and a tendency to neglect horses in the warmer months, makes it a primarily summer presentation.
Neglect is probably the biggest single factor involved.
What does it look like?
Many cases have early signs such as scaling, pruritus and plaques
The advanced stages of the condition can be readily recognised
‘Many cases have early signs such as scaling, pruritus and plaques resulting from vasculitis, self trauma and infection that are either overlooked, ignored or treated inappropriately’
Often the secondary skin changes are so chronic and severe that the original cause cannot be established. The resulting proliferative ‘masses’ can easily be mistaken for tumours (sarcoids in particular) and granulation tissue. The condition has been divided into four clinically recognisable categories: Group One: Scaling dermatosis – the earliest stage of the condition. Group Two: Hyperkeratotic, hyperplastic plaque like dermatosis – this arises as a result of self trauma or infection. Group Three: Tumourous skin thickening – initially thickening is generalised and there may be a degree of skin folding. Group Four: Verrucose lesions with nodules of hyperplastic ulcerated and exudative thickened skin, scar tissue,
often with extensive skin folding and deep clefting. Secondary infection and infestations are common and the animal may be lame and debilitated. Secondary bacterial infections are inevitable and in summer fly strike can develop over a period of five to seven days. Some cases are itchy, which adds to the trauma of the skin and some horses may chew at the affected legs. Metabolic effects can occur including debility, weight loss and blood changes including anaemia, low blood protein and a reduced immunological status. Lameness and general leg filling indicate deeper infection and a more severe state. The disease is always a significant welfare issue and where it occurs the owner can justifiably be accused of neglect. Not many horses recover without enormous effort, cost and discomfort both to the patient and the attending vet and farrier.
Continued on Page 31
Crimean War Disease
The disorder is almost exclusively restricted to horses with feathered legs. Continued from Page 30 The characteristic nodules could be mistaken for true warts, sarcoids or even proud flesh and so swabs and biopsies may be taken simply to eliminate these. These conditions may co-exist, complicating treatment and the variety of bacteria makes antibiotic selection difficult and few will actually reach the site of the bacteria.
What about treatment?
The control of infection may take some time, but usually there will be a significant improvement as soon as infection is resolved. Once this is achieved, it is preferable to leave the affected limbs open to the air. Repeated clipping of the hair may be required and antibacterial dressings may be reapplied. Treatment of myiasis may be problematic because the condition can develop rapidly and repeatedly. The maggots can penetrate deep clefts and therefore are difficult to identify and remove.
The main initial objective is to reduce the exacerbating secondary factors and to render the skin inhospitable to the opportunistic pathogens that may cause complications.
The washed limbs should be blotted dry and kept as dry as possible thereafter.
The almost invariable bacterial infection and the occasional myiasis will require specific treatments; usually close clipping of the skin and removal of necrotic tissue, an antiseptic wash and application of modern antibacterial dressings. Topical antiseptic washes (e.g. chlorhexidine possibly with miconazole) are essential. A general anaesthetic may even be required as treatment can be very painful with access to four feet difficult in the conscious horse. It is vital that all washes and rinses are undertaken with warm water as cold water washes are far less effective and strong chemicals must be avoided because they will further
All hair should be clipped down and maintained this short for the duration of the treatment.
inflame the skin.
Treatment is extremely difficult in any but the earliest stages of the condition.
The most important aspect is to remove all the hair, then all infection and infestation must be removed from the affected skin.
HORSE HEALTH I 31
Reduction in the overall degree of inflammation is the best approach but this can be difficult to sustain. Where the ‘grapes’ are present, it is best to remove all the abnormal tissue surgically using thermocautery, laser or sharp surgery. Poulticing, caustic applications and so on simply make the ‘grapes’ bigger and more aggressive. There is little likelihood that all the abnormal skin can be removed and in any case this is a severe and very bloody surgery which is usually performed using a tourniquet under general anaesthesia to limit the blood loss and pain. At the same time any exacerbating factors such as persistent wetting, matting of hair and other skin trauma have to be eliminated as far as possible. All the hair should be clipped down to surgical level and maintained this short for the duration of the
The disease is always a significant welfare issue treatment period and the horse must be removed from any muddy or wet pasture. Strong desiccating chemicals such as alcohol and astringents currently available may cause cracking and further exudation so they are probably contraindicated. Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs and antibiotics (topical and systemic) may be indicated. Thick creams and lotions should not be applied if avoidable. Water-soluble-base steroid creams have been used but at least initially should probably be avoided. Spray forms of hydrocortisone can be very helpful but have to be very carefully controlled.
Many cases take years to recover fully and some have permanent skin thickening and a tendency to recurrence.
Prevention: It is entirely possible to prevent this disease, it takes only a modicum of normal care with the recognition that early signs are important and require proper veterinary attention. Trying to deal with this without the proper support is wrong and potentially dangerous, wanton cruelty by applying severe chemicals and inappropriate management is totally unacceptable. It is absolutely clear that prevention is better than cure.
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HORSE HEALTH I
African horse sickness
AHS Cardiac Form – swelling of the ocular and surrounding tissues
AHS Peracule Form – froth filling the broncial tract
Concerns that AHS could reach Britain By Duncan Hannant THE establishment of BlueTongue Virus (BTV) in British farm stock last year and the recent extended incursions of AHS into Europe, have led to increased concern that it might reach Britain. Does this mean that the stage is set for African Horse Sickness Virus (AHSV) to cause disease in British horses?
What is African Horse Sickness? This is a highly fatal and infectious disease, which affects horses, mules and donkeys. It is caused by an arbovirus (arthropod borne virus) and so comes under the same grouping as West Nile Virus. There are nine strains (serotypes) of the virus, with the horse requiring immunity to every single one. Although it is highly infectious in the presence of the vector, the disease is not directly contagious between animals. The most serious infections occur in horses and mules; zebras and African donkeys rarely develop serious clinical signs.
the virus, usually by eating infected horsemeat. The disease is endemic in subSaharan Africa and has spread as far north as Morocco and the Middle East. The disease in horses: Once the virus has entered the body, it replicates in local tissues and is rapidly transported to all parts mainly via the bloodstream. AHSV can cause four forms of disease: I Horse sickness fever is usually mild and horses show only mild to moderate fever and some swelling around the eyes. There is no mortality and it often occurs after infection with less virulent strains of the virus or if the horse has some degree of immunity. I The cardiac or sub-acute form of the disease is characterised by fever which may last for several weeks. The main clinical finding is swelling under the skin, particularly of the head, neck and chest but also around the eyes.
Zebras, which are often asymptomatic, are thought to be the natural reservoir hosts in most regions of Africa.
The conjunctivae may become congested with blood and local haemorrhages may occur. Colic is often a feature of the disease and mortality rates may exceed 50 per cent.
Dogs can also be severely infected by
I The mixed form of the disease is
the most common form of AHS and is a combination of the cardiac and pulmonary (see below) forms of disease. The mortality rate is approximately 70 per cent and death usually occurs within three to six days after onset of fever. I The pulmonary form is peracute (of short duration that occurs within a few hours) and may develop so rapidly that the horse may die without previous indication of illness. Usually, horses show marked depression and fever followed by severe respiratory distress. Coughing spasms may occur, the head and neck are extended and severe sweating develops. Under these conditions, the horses will sometimes go down and before death frothy fluid may be discharged from the nostrils. The prognosis for horses suffering from this form of AHS is extremely grave and mortality rates commonly exceed 95 per cent. The pulmonary form of AHS is also the form most usually seen in dogs.
(vaccines which contain live virus that has been disabled so that it cannot cause disease, but will induce a strong immune response) available in Africa and other countries where AHS is endemic. However, there are some concerns over the use of these vaccines in countries where the diseases is not endemic, because of the risks of causing disease in naïve populations. Inactivated vaccines are the safest to use and there is much research being carried out to develop and test these in research institutes in the UK (including Cambridge Infectious Diseases Consortium, the Animal Health Trust, Newmarket and the Institute of Animal Health at Pirbright) and the vaccine manufacturers, supported by BBSRC and DEFRA. If it becomes established, the effects of this disease on horse health and welfare will be enormous, let alone the impact on the many facets of the British horse industry.
What are we doing about it and what is the future?
However you can be assured that there is a large concerted effort being undertaken in order to be prepared for AHS and the possible incursion of AHSV into the UK.
Vaccination plays a major role in prevention of AHS and in stopping spread in the event of outbreaks. There are live-attenuated vaccines
I Duncan Hannant is Professor of Applied Immunology, School of Veterinary Medicine and Science, University of Nottingham
African horse sickness
HORSE HEALTH I NEWS 33
Seminar views shocking video clips of suffering By Christine Keate NEVER has the phrase ‘cut the atmosphere with a knife’ been more apt than at Tattersalls on 23 June, as an audience of the equine industry watched video clips of horses suffering from African Horse Sickness. The reality that the disease, with a higher than 90 per cent mortality rate, is very likely to reach Britain within the next few years was shocking. The seminar, which took an extensive look at the threat to Britain, posed by exotic equine diseases such as AHS and WNV was hosted by the Thoroughbred Breeders’ Association and The Horse Trust. Presentations were made by global experts and from the AHS Working Group which was established by The Horse Trust last year to produce, a control strategy in anticipation of a disease outbreak in the UK. In our last issue Horse Health looked in depth at WNV so the focus of this report is on the AHS aspect of the seminar. Professor Philip Mellor of the Institute for Animal Health, Pirbright, examined the parallels between bluetongue and AHS. In the UK BTV came in via wind borne midges on 5 August 2007, when a plume of wind came from Belgium across the UK coast. Experts are in contact daily with the Met Office for readouts of wind plumes from infected areas to help to quantify the risks. This ability to travel on the wind may have enabled midge transmitted diseases like BTV to expand. AHS is endemic in South Africa and Professor Alan Guthrie, Director of Equine Research at the University of Pretoria, described the reality of living with an outbreak. He suggested there are over 150 species of Culicoides, and that every single one should be considered a vector, unless proven otherwise. Primary control is prophylactic vaccination. Because there are nine serotypes (strains) of AHS and the horse is susceptible to every one, it means in effect that a vaccine has to provide immunity against nine different diseases. Their control strategies during an outbreak include vaccination and stabling at night with the use of insecticides and repellents.
Dr Chris Oura Professor Guthrie said: “Although movement over distances may be associated with midges being blown on the wind, the most common way of introducing infection is the movement of an animal.” Preparations and control strategies are in place should an outbreak occur in the UK, and Dr Chris Oura of the IAH Pirbright outlined these. He said: “The IAH works on a variety of diseases – mainly exotic viruses such as foot and mouth (FMD) and African swine fever, and we have OIE status (there are three in the world) as a reference laboratory. The tests available at IAH enable us to make a rapid diagnosis of AHS and the individual serotypes, which will enable us to instigate rapid control measures or vaccination. Dr Jules Minke of Merial, France, defined the difficulties in producing a suitable vaccine for AHS and the progress so far. He said: “There are similarities between AHS and WNV. Both are vector borne, have no treatment protocol and control relies on vector management and vaccination. However, whilst good vaccines could be made available against WNV, there are no inactivated vaccines against AHS on the market and therefore suitable for use in Europe. “There is, therefore, a need for efficacious safe vaccines against AHS that can be used in a programme which can differentiate vaccinated and non vaccinated animals.” Merial’s focus of development has been on the Canarypox platform which is used for a variety of vaccines, including WNV and equine influenza.
‘The tests available at IAH enable us to make a rapid diagnosis of AHS and the individual serotypes, which will enable us to instigate rapid control measures or vaccination’
Prof Philip Mellor
It can work with or without adjuvant and give early onset immunity, it is ideal for emerging diseases – there is no need to work with virulent organisms because genes are synthesised, optimised for mammalian expression and can be built very quickly.
place both for WNV and AHS, and highlighted that the first UK case of either disease is more likely to be from ‘jet setting’ insects or illegal movement of horses than movement of the midge population.
The same manufacturing process for all canarypox constructs gives batch to batch consistency and is easy to scale up for large-scale manufacturing.
Suspected cases would be investigated and isolated, horses on the infected unit would need to be stabled and insect eradication undertaken.
Dr Minke said: “Alan Guthrie and I agreed to produce an experimental vaccine that he would test in horses.
A positive result in a horse on an infected unit would result in that animal being euthanased. Its history would be traced and control zones would be introduced.
“We will test this in the coming months and know by the end of the year whether these canarypox vaccines will protect against AHS.” Finally, Matthew Hartley, Deputy Head of Exotic Diseases at Defra described the control measures in
As an exotic disease AHS is notifiable.
Whilst an outbreak of AHS is not imminent, the message of the day was the need to be prepared. The most exciting news was that a suitable vaccine may have been developed.
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Forge
HORSE HEALTH I
How farriers’ registration act prevents cruelty to horses By Andrew Poynton FWCF THE state of farriery in Great Britain through the 1950s, 60s and into the 70s suffered from the post World War II decline of the horse’s importance in both commercial and agricultural sectors. This resulted in many highly skilled craftsmen leaving the trade. Thankfully, there were some master farriers who continued to practice and pass on their expertise to their apprentices.
Farriers are highly skilled craftsmen.
of Farriers and the National Association of Farriers Blacksmiths and Agricultural Engineers, lobbied the government to bring about changes. This led to the Farriers Registration Act of 1975 with minor amendments made in 1977 and 2002 to bring it in line with European Commission Directives.
With the resurgence of the horse for recreational use in the later 60s there was a dearth of well trained farriers, so many people attempted to do the job themselves, sadly at the expense of the horse.
This was and is an animal welfare act; ‘to prevent suffering by cruelty to horses arising from the shoeing of horses by unskilled persons; to promote the training of farriers; to provide for the establishment of a Farriers Registration Council to register any persons engaged in farriery, and to prohibit the shoeing of horses by unqualified persons’.
As a result, the Worshipful Company
Continued on Page 35
Advertiser’s announcement
Craftsman heavy horseshoes HOW long does it take you to make a set of heavy horseshoes by hand? At least an hour perhaps two. When can you spare the time to make them in this busy summer season? On an evening after a hard day’s work. When does the horse need shoeing? Ah well, it’s showing on Saturday and can you do two whilst you’re on! Craftsman Heavy Horseshoes take the slog out of making shoes for heavy draft horses, using them saves you time yet you need make no compromise in quality or craftsmanship. Manufactured in a traditional plain stamped pattern , these are substantial shoes made from 30mm x 12mm steel.
They are available by the pair from stock, in a range of six sizes from 7” to 10” ( toe to heel measurement ) which suit most heavy draft horse feet; this means that you, the farrier can select a well fitted shoe with ease for all of the heavies which you shoe. We can send them to you “ next day “ with carriers. The front and hind shoes are well shaped with ‘easyfit’ heels, so as to avoid stone traps. Both are toe clipped with good strong clips. The nail holes are stamped to take a size E10 nail, they are well placed and well pitched which makes it easier to achieve good strong sound nailing. Craftsman Heavy Horseshoes are made by machine but they are designed to be nailed on by Craftsmen.
Forge Continued from Page 34 It became law that all currently practicing farriers should be registered and all entering the trade complete an apprenticeship culminating in passing the trade test – the Diploma of the Worshipful Company of Farriers. The all time low standards of farriery in the 60s were turned around and the science of farriery is back on track promoting a high level of craftsmanship and theoretical understanding. However, despite representations from all interested UK bodies, on the grounds that it could have an adverse effect on equine welfare and undermine the UK’s system of formal training, qualification and registration, the European
Commission (EC) requires changes to UK farriery legislation. The particular issues the FRC has raised are: I Any EU member can establish themselves in another EU nation purely on the basis of six years experience. I That farriery is included under metalworking, not animal welfare. I Although the Directive makes provision for the use of Common Platforms for developing common EU standards, these have not been implemented. I EU members established in one country may offer temporary and occasional services in another member nation on the basis of only two years experience and without any check on their competence. I These temporary service providers must be registered without payment of any fee, unlike UK Registered Farriers, and appear to have freedom to renew their temporary status without limit. That said, it is important to keep matters in perspective, there is no evidence of a flood of applicants as yet. Should that change or welfare issues, or any other difficulties arise, such as wholesale abuse of the system, these will be reported to government departments and assistance requested.
HORSE HEALTH I 35
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HORSE HEALTH I
Bloodstock matters
Christine Keate talks to Louise Kemble, of the Thoroughbred Breeders’ Association, about its role within the equine industry, her career and her aspirations as its chief executive.
‘My role is now all about supporting the production of the Thoroughbred, the mare owners and those working within the industry’ Were you always interested in horses? “I had ponies as a child, and knew from quite an early age that I wanted to work in the equine industry, I was interested in the racing world, albeit from the outside. “I started as a director’s secretary at the Jockey Club, and then really worked my way around the industry gaining experience. I joined the TBA in 1997, as assistant to the chief executive, and assumed the mantle of CE in 2003. “The biggest change in this time has been the advent of the current Breeders’ Prizes Scheme, the expanding importance of political lobbying and the recent development of British Bloodstock Marketing, which includes in its remit identifying and developing new markets for British bred Thoroughbreds.” How is your role as chief executive defined? “My role, and that of the TBA, is now all about supporting the production of the Thoroughbred, the mare owners and those working within the industry. “Political and industry lobbying takes up between 30 and 50 per cent of my time. “We work with a consultant, members of the All Party Racing Group and Government officials, highlighting issues affecting the industry and present to parliament in the UK, and in Europe with MEP’s and the European TBA. “Key areas at the moment include monitoring of the VAT Registration Scheme for racehorse owners, ensuring the future workability of transport of equines in face of EU intervention, maintaining single farm
payments eligibility and, closer to home, the new aircraft stacking arrangements for Stanstead Airport and whether this will have serious detrimental effects.” How do you gather information to support your lobbying? “Good statistics and information about the Thoroughbred breeding industry are vital to promote its welfare. “On our website we offer support on many different subjects, and encourage those who use our services to complete a questionnaire. “We do not require the details of specific individuals or enterprises, so there should be no concerns about confidentiality, rather the overall picture of the industry as a whole. “This will enable us in our lobbying and planning to quote confidently, for example, how many acres are specifically dedicated to the industry, the age and gender of the people employed within it. “We provide support for employers, and employees, on anything from planning regulations to employment contracts. “We have just put together a pensions and insurance package, in order to be prepared for 2012, when all employers will be obliged to provide this cover.” How does veterinary research feature in the TBA’s objectives? “Very strongly. The equine industry as a whole benefits from the veterinary research projects we help to fund, and our current commitment is £250,000 a year. “Work is being undertaken at the Moredun Research Institute to obtain a blood-testing technique to identify
Louise Kemble specific red worm infestation, which could revise the practice of blanket prophylactic treatment and, therefore, the incidence of wormer resistance. “Other projects to which we contribute include the AHT in its Equine Genetics Research Gene Mapping Project, and with their research to develop a Strangles vaccine.” What do you feel you bring to the industry? “Apart from my energy and determination, my background certainly brings a great deal of experience and knowledge of the industry, which can only be acquired over time. “So, I have my ‘business’ side, but equally importantly, home is The Elms Stud, in Northamptonshire, which my husband runs, therefore, I am actively involved on a personal level. This leads to a greater understanding of the issues faced by
our members. “I think it is easier for people to identify with someone who shares their experiences. “I have also received a great deal of support from TBA members and enjoy the back-up of a committed team of staff.” What are your aspirations for the TBA? “I would like to see the membership continue to grow and, certainly, in the light of a possible recession, to maintain our commitments to veterinary research, education and promotion of Thoroughbred breeding. Breeding and racing Thoroughbreds is a great British industry and has a unique heritage and culture, it is also an important aspect of rural life – which is becoming ever more precious in Great Britain. “I believe we have a large role to play in maintaining this for future generations.”
Bloodstock matters
HORSE HEALTH I 37
Thoroughbred foals and developmental orthopaedic disease By Lizzie Drury NUTRITION may play an important role in the pathogenesis of developmental orthopaedic disease in horses. Deficiencies, excesses, and imbalances of nutrients may result in an increase in both the incidence and severity of physitis, angular limb deformity, wobbler syndrome and osteochondritis dissecans. Nutritional Factors as a Cause of Developmental Orthopaedic Disease Mineral Deficiencies: A deficiency of minerals, including calcium, phosphorous, copper and zinc, may lead to DOD. The ration fed to young growing horses should be properly fortified to ensure an adequate supply of these minerals. Mineral Excesses: Excess intakes of minerals such as calcium, phosphorous, zinc, iodine, fluorine and certain heavy metals such as lead and cadmium may lead to DOD. Full ration analysis, including forage analysis would be required to identify these types of mineral imbalances. Mineral Imbalances: The ration of minerals may be as important as the actual amount of individual minerals in the ration. For example the ratio of calcium to phosphorous should never dip below 1:1 and should ideally be 1.5:1. High intakes of phosphorous will inhibit calcium absorption while excess levels of phosphorous may affect phosphorous status. Dietary Energy Excess: Excessive energy intake can lead to rapid growth and increased body fat, which may predispose young horses to DOD. A recent Kentucky study showed that growth rate and body size may increase the incidence of certain types of DOD in Thoroughbred foals (Pagan et al., 1996). Yearlings that showed osteochondrosis of the hock and the stifle were large at birth, grew rapidly from three to eight months of age, and were heavier than the average population as weanlings. The source of calories for young horses may also be important, as hyperglycemia or hyperinsulinemia have been implicated in the pathogenesis of osteochondrosis (Glade et al., 1984, Ralston, 1995). Foals that experience an exaggerated
and sustained increase in circulating glucose or insulin in response to a carbohydrate or cereal meal may be predisposed to DOD. In vitro studies with foetal and foal chondrocytes suggest that the role of insulin in growth cartilage may be to promote chondrocytes survival or to suppress differentiation. Further and more recent research also suggests that hyperinsulinemia may affect chondrocytes maturation, leading to altered matrix metabolism and faulty mineralisation or altered cartilage growth by influencing other hormones such as thyroxin (Pagan et al., 1996; Jeffcott and Henson, 1998). Based on this information there have been recommendations to feed young growing stock diets that produce low glycemic responses and to monitor growth patterns to prevent accelerated growth rates or fattening.
Growth Curves And Condition Scoring The surest way to document excessive energy intake is by weighing and using condition scoring in growing horses. Software programmes are available that allow breeders to accurately track the growth of their youngstock and develop feeding and management programmes that fit the desired rate of growth. This is an essential part of the preparation of youngstock, such as the Thoroughbred foals and weanlings when it comes to sales preparation. Thoroughbreds that will race as two year olds require faster and earlier growth to realise their full potential. Foals that are born later in the year that are pointed at early yearling sales need to follow more aggressive growth curve than early foals or foals that will be sold in late yearling sales. With this type of accelerated program, it is imperative that growth rate is closely monitored and feed intake adjusted to produce acceptable gains. Growth monitoring combined with regular ration evaluations is the safest and most effective way to produce a sound and athletic individual.
I Lizzie Drury MSc is registered nutritionist and senior nutritionist at Saracen Horse Feeds
Advertiser’s announcement
Marketing company launches scheme
Alex Wilson and Matt Wildman
THE costs of printing brochures can often be prohibitive for small breeders, as the time of year when they most need brochures or stud cards does not coincide with when they have the cash flow to pay for them.
“This will not just include printing but design too.”
Alex Wilson and Matt Wildman, of the bloodstock and equestrian marketing company Thoroughbred International, are launching their new October 1st Scheme, offering small breeders the chance to pay for their printing in October, when they receive their stud fees.
Matt said: “It is possible to have a website for an individual stallion and we can even offer studs the opportunity to sell stallion nominations via credit cards on their site.”
Alex said: “We realised that many small breeders are not able to promote their stallions effectively due to cash flow and, consequently, miss out on useful marketing opportunities. That is why, for the 2008/9, season we are offering our new terms. Clients will pay a deposit on their job and the balance will be paid in October.
Thoroughbred International are extending the scheme for websites and are now offering simple, easy to use sites that are self-updatable, keeping costs to a minimum.
This scheme is open to members of the Thoroughbred Breeders’ Association and to all studs that stand stallion at fees of less than £3,000.
For further information on how this scheme works, or for more information about how Thoroughbred International can help call 0845 108 6385 or visit their website, www.ThoroughbredInternational.com
38
Dentistry
HORSE HEALTH I
Uncertainty for vets and equine dental technicians RECENT years have seen an increase in both horse ownership and the number of non veterinary surgeons offering equine dental work. Currently neither vets nor EDTs are required to sit an examination in equine dentistry. The lack of progress in establishing a legal Exemption Order governing how the profession may develop, is leading to disagreement between some vets and EDTs. Tony Rose states the case for BAEDT: In both 2002 and 2004 DEFRA took steps to produce a legal Exemption Order to the Veterinary Act 1966. The purpose of this was to provide a clear framework that covered the daily working situation of examined EDTs. DEFRA recognized that for years, EDTs have been carrying out what might been seen as minor acts of veterinary surgery – the extraction of loose molars in aged horses, extraction of wolf teeth and the use of power equipment. The Order directed and encouraged EDTs and vets to work together. In 2001 the British Association of Equine Dental Technicians was formed following the first British Equine Veterinary Association examination in equine dentistry. Membership is granted only to those who pass, is open to vets and EDTs, and the examining board is comprised of both. At that time there was great optimism among EDTs that the profession was moving toward regulation and recognition. BAEDT members undertook to work within the criteria set out in the
The use of power tools in appropriate situations on unsedated horses could be in jeopardy Picture: Sue Carden DEFRA proposals and BEVA was in agreement that it would promote BAEDT members. Since 2004 the BEVA Dental Working Party, a small committee of vets whose role is to advise BEVA, has increasingly sought to restrict the broad terms of DEFRA’S proposal, lobbying to reduce and restrict the procedures EDTs may carry out. The Working Party has recently
stated that, in its view, EDTs should do no more than rasp teeth manually, extract wolf teeth, use power equipment only on sedated horses and be banned from using forceps to remove molars and incisors. Over the last year meetings have taken place between BAEDT and the BEVA Dental Working Party to resolve these issues. Technological advances have led to power equipment being used regularly and routinely on unsedated horses in appropriate cases, many thousands of times each year. This renders compulsory sedation often unnecessary and expensive, both in terms of cost to the owner and in time to veterinary practices.
The Working Party’s current position will create difficulties in the work place for veterinary surgeons who wish to work with specialist EDTs, is at odds with the DEFRA proposal, and is not in the spirit of the deregulation of minor acts of veterinary surgery. BAEDT members are of the opinion that horse owners and veterinary surgeons should have a choice, and that the DEFRA proposed Exemption Order will serve the horse very well. BAEDT is committed to working with the veterinary profession.
The extraction of molars or incisors in appropriate cases without forceps is unworkable. Such extractions are carried under the direction of veterinary surgeons and in accordance with the proposed Exemption Order.
It is worthy of note that the International Association of Equine Dentistry and the World Wide Association of Equine Dentistry both of whom also represent DEFRA approved EDTs in England, do not agree with the BEVA Working Party position. Due to the many factors affecting DEFRA, the proposed Exemption Order has not yet been ratified.
BAEDT is clear that its members routinely carry out the procedures for veterinary surgeons.
I Tony Rose’s comments have been approved by the BAEDT Council
Classified
HORSE HEALTH I 39
Ceramic fabric takes therapy to new level THOUGH infrared ray therapy has long been recognized for its therapeutic benefits, a relatively recent innovation, in the form of ceramic fabric, has taken it to a new level. Ceramic fabric is woven from threads imbedded with very fine ceramic particles, and is designed to reflect body heat at wavelengths within the infrared sector (similar to the warming and healthy rays of natural sunlight). Within a certain range infrared rays stimulate our bodies’ water molecules, which can effectively reduce inflammation. Such stimulation also generates heat, which can dilate blood vessels, promote circulation and alleviate pain. A Swedish company, Back on Track, has fully embraced this technology and incorporated it into a range of garments and joint braces for people, horses and dogs. Recently expanding into the UK, Back on Track’s horse products have quickly made an impression on leading equestrians, including Michael Whitaker, Bettina Hoy, Christian Landolt and Polly Stockton. Michael said: “Bloody good! “That’s it in a nutshell if queried about Back on Track. “I’ve had great success treating various ailments with these products, and believe me, I’ve tried all sorts of remedies on my horses over the
years. The results are obvious - end of story.” Veterinarians around the world have also influenced the ongoing development of these products, including Dr. Jim Hamilton, DVM, of Southern Pines Equine Associates (USA), who has used the Back on Track bandages and blanket on bone scan horses to keep the legs and back warm and maximize circulation. He said: “We compared regular leg wraps to the Back on Track ceramic bandages and have documented significant increases in circulation.” Of special significance also, was a blind study conducted at the Strömsholm Riding School on horses with back problems. Conducted over two consecutive three-weekly periods, half of the horses wore only their normal blankets throughout the first three weeks, while the other half wore a Back on Track back pad as well. At the end of the first three-week period, an evaluation was carried out by both an independent veterinarian and a professional rider, with neither informed of which horses used the back pads. The back pads were then transferred from one group of horses to the other for the following three week period. At the end of that term, all horses were assessed again under identical circumstances to the earlier
evaluation. After correlating all information, the indications were that eight out of ten horses improved their gait at the trot, and seven out of ten at the gallop. Back on Track strictly monitors the reflectivity of their ceramic fabric, assuring that the reflected wavelength falls within parameters compatible to the normal ‘dancing’ frequency of our bodies’ water molecules. Doing so maximizes the body’s receptiveness to infrared rays, allowing the best opportunity for successful treatment of tendon, ligament and joint problems, muscle soreness, arthritis, circulatory problems and a variety of other ailments.
Royal launch for Equine Welfare Protocol By Louise Cordell THE National Equine Welfare Protocol, which aims to prevent equine suffering, has been launched by The Princess Royal. It aims to ensure that horses in danger as a consequence of cruelty or neglect will be rescued quickly and effectively. Paul Jepson, chief executive and resident veterinary surgeon of The Horse Trust, said: “We are delighted that this Protocol has come into being so quickly. “After our experiences at the start of this year, with a horse welfare case of unprecedented scale, we are determined to try and ensure that no other horses will ever have to suffer in this way again. “This is a major step towards this and a demonstration of how all the related organisation can work cohesively together, sharing resources, facilities and expertise – it is a triumph for horse welfare.” The agreement been developed by
representatives from local and national government, the Police and welfare organisations and is applicable throughout the UK It sets out guidelines for how cases of equine neglect and abuse should be reported and handled, and what the relevant organisations can do to
reduce the incidence of equine welfare problems. In a foreword to the Protocol, the Princess Royal writes: “This information will be widely available and will advise the public on how to report their concerns. “It is a ten-year plan to ensure that
all our horses, ponies and donkeys are as healthy as possible, are treated as humanely as possible, and everyone responsible for equine health and welfare understands and fulfills their duty of care.”
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