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The UK’s leading equine health & well-being magazine
December 08/January 09 £2.95
Horse charities struggling with requests By Louise Cordell HORSE charities struggling to cope with an unprecedented number of homing requests are being forced to recommend euthanasia as a last resort. The Horse Trust has confirmed that the credit crunch is taking its toll on the country’s horses after being inundated with calls for help from cash strapped owners. Susan Lewis, The Horse Trust’s marketing manager, said: “It is a massive issue for the equine industry. We have gone from 20 to 30 enquiries a week to well over 500 in just the last three weeks, and the numbers are increasing all the time. We are being approached by a new generation of horse owners who never thought they would find themselves in this position. But now the credit crunch is severely impacting on their lifestyle and they don’t know what to do.” Rising feed, bedding and livery costs, together with a decline in demand for leisure riding, is affecting yards and individual owners and with, waiting lists of over 18 months, few charities are in a position to help. The Horse Trust will look at each individual case and make any recommendations they
can to help keep horse and owner together, but this is not always possible. Susan added: “If people are having trouble feeding themselves, let alone their horse, and this means the welfare of the horse will suffer, then we do suggest euthanasia as an option. I think it would be irresponsible not to, especially if the alternative is compromising care, because we have to put the horse’s interests first.” Re-homing charities are also finding that there are fewer people taking on horse ownership, and there has also been a rise in people taking on horses and then bringing them back a few months later – either because their financial circumstances have changed or because the costs are higher than they expected. Susan added: “Unfortunately we can’t take in every needy horse – if only we could – but we are doing everything we can under increasingly difficult circumstances. “The worry is that people will start trying to cut costs, leading to compromised care, for example thinking twice before calling out the vet. The situation is a big concern for horse charities across the country and it has the potential to escalate. “We are extremely concerned and we don’t know where it is going to end.”
A study of foot balance and lameness in riding school horses has won the Royal Agricultural Society of England’s ‘Eqvalan Duo Equine Thesis of the Year Award’. Laura Corbin from Warwickshire College reported her research on riding school horses and developed an objective system to evaluate foot balance. She found that horses with
chronic foot conditions often had poor scores for foot balance and so maintaining good foot balance could reduce lameness and provide long term economic benefits. Her winning thesis was selected by judges Professor Graham Suggett, Dr Emma Batson of Merial Animal Health, Dr Pat Harris of Mars Horsecare Ltd, and Alison Bridge of Horse and Rider.
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HORSE HEALTH I NEWS 3
Urgent need for training standards
EDITORIAL GROUP EDITOR:
Andrew Harrod Tel: 01226 734639 email: ah@whpl.net EDITOR:
Christine Keate By Louise Cordell THERE is an urgent need for recognised training standards to be set for equine paraprofessionals, according to new research from Lantra. Results from the first ever UK wide survey of equine barefoot trimmers and equine dental technicians have revealed a gap in standards of training and the industry’s current and future skills requirements. Lisa Jarvis, Lantra’s industry partnership manger, said: “The report highlights how the development of different training options and qualifications may lead to confusion within the veterinary profession and the wider equine world as to the experience and
competency of those undertaking the work.” Lantra is now aiming to work with various professional organisations to identify how, where, what and when training is currently accessed and undertaken. There will then be a review to discover if this meets the current requirements of the equine industry and if any changes will need to be made in the future. Lisa added: “This report is key in developing industry-wide national occupational standards for the training, skill development and qualifications required by paraprofessionals. “This will ensure that people undertaking the work are suitably
experienced and competent to do their job, which is key if demand for these jobs continues to rise.” As a result of the report, Lantra is also hoping to open up a debate on the title of barefoot trimmer and is looking for feedback on how appropriate the term is and what is involved in the role. Lisa added: “Significant variation is visible in the range of job titles used by the people undertaking this work to describe themselves. “So we have now started to work with these professionals to reach an agreement on one job title that really reflects their work – providing a clear outline of the role for future industry entrants.”
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 ADVERTISING SALES AND MARKETING DIRECTOR:
Tony Barry SALES EXECUTIVE:
Beverley Parkin Tel: 01226 734333 Fax: 01226 734478 bp@whpl.net 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.
Hunt for rider THE HUNT is on to find a rider who works as hard for their sponsors as Tim Stockdale, Matt Ryan and Ellen Whitaker. All three are previous winners of the British Equestrian Trade Association’s TSM Rider Award and now BETA is requesting nominations for the 2009 prize. The TSM Rider Award is open to riders in all disciplines, from international to local level and the winner will be the rider who has forged a particularly productive relationship with his or her sponsors. The closing date for nominations is 1 January 2009 after which a short list will be drawn up with the final decision being reached by an independent panel. Rider nominations and an explanation of why he or she deserves to win should be emailed to tinar@beta-int.com.
The Princess Royal and Lars Goran (Yogi) Breisner Picture: Matt Fowler
Equestrian award for Yogi THE Queen’s Award for Equestrianism has been presented to Yogi Briesner during a reception at Buckingham Palace. The former eventer and trainer has received the award for his outstanding services to equestrianism after being selected from nine nominees by the BHS board of trustees. Patrick Print, BHS chairman, said: “Yogi is unquestionably one of the great trainers of our time.
“His addition to the list of recipients of the Queen’s Award for Equestrianism ensures that its reputation as the foremost accolade for outstanding service will remain.” The other eight nominees in line for the award were Mr Douglas Bunn, Mr Richard Carey, Mr Leslie Crawford, Mrs Jill Gibson, Mr Hamish John Lochore, Mr John McEwen, Mr Hugh Thomas and Major Richard Waygood.
Horse Health is registered with the Audit Bureau of Circulations.
Cancer hope HORSES that are diagnosed with cancer will now have a better chance of recovery thanks to the extension of a new therapy unit at Cambridge University. The Queen’s Veterinary Hospital is the only facility in Europe offering radiotherapy for horses and now houses a new linear accelerator which is identical to those used in human cancer treatment centres. This equipment has replaced the original machine which was donated second hand from the NHS in 1991 when the veterinary school opened the first cancer treatment unit for animals in Europe.
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HORSE HEALTH I NEWS
Andrew takes Vet of the Year title ESSEX vet, Andrew Dobson, has been named Petplan Equine Vet of the Year at the 20th annual Animal Health Trust Equestrian Awards. The prize had been introduced to celebrate the huge contribution vets make to equine health and welfare and owners and riders from all over the UK had been invited to send in nominations. A short list of three finalists was drawn up before Andrew, of The Barn Equine and Large Animal Practice in Great Wakering, was selected by a panel of industry experts.
judges.
Pictured, from left, Mark Lingard, Alison Bridge, Andrew Dobson and Mark Murrell
Jo Whitaker of Petplan Equine said: “We received some very strong nominations and all three finalists are clearly exceptional vets. “Andrew Dobson was nominated by a number of his clients and they all stressed his professionalism and devotion to the horses in his care and how he regularly goes beyond the call of duty in making sure that both horses and owners are given the very best treatment.”
Andrew Dobson qualified in 1999 and has run his own practice for the last four and a half years.
Andrew added: “I have always enjoyed working with horses because I like the way they are dealt with as individuals, which is not always the case with a lot of large animal work.
He was nominated by a number of his grateful clients and their glowing testimonials impressed the
“I think my clients view their horses in the same way others see their cats and dogs – they are a huge
part of their life - and they felt that they were missing out on the attention a local vet and a small friendly practice can provide that. “They didn’t like their clinic being miles away and having to see a
different vet every time, and I try to provide something different. “They don’t necessarily want the latest flash equipment, but someone who they feel they can talk to and who understands their horse’s history.”
Supplier launches website INDEPENDENT farriery supplier, Total Foot Protection, has launched a new website offering equipment and education. The site, www.totalfootprotection.com, features an archive of published
education articles and details of upcoming CPD educational events. Visitors can also purchase products from leading manufacturers as well as unique and specialist remedial items.
Pictured, from left, Howard Wilder, Genitrix MD; Buster Brown and Jim Green, Hampshire Fire and Rescue Animal Rescue Specialists
Rescue horse unveiled HOWIE the Rescue Horse has been unveiled by the Equine Rescue Fund as its latest training tool. The lifesize mannequin will be used to help train vets and rescue services in helping horses in emergency situations. It will provide the practical elements of the rescue and emergency medicine training for equine vets courses run by BEVA in partnership with Hampshire Fire and Rescue Service’s animal rescue specialists. Howie will also be taken on the road to veterinary schools and go out on loan to other fire and rescue services wishing to train their firefighters in manual emergency equine handling techniques. The first of its kind to be manufactured in the UK, Howie was designed to the animal rescue
specialist’s specifications by Walesbased company Big Beasts, which more usually creates bespoke models, creatures, and props for the film and television industry, as well as for museums and theme parks. Howie has been named after Genitrix’ managing director, Howard Wilder after the company stepped in to cover the significant production costs of the mannequin. Howard said: “Horse rescue is a complex and hazardous operation, both for the animal and those trying to rescue it and treat any injuries. “As a company actively involved in equine care, we felt it was important to make a contribution to the Equine Rescue Fund. “It’s great that Howie has safely arrived and we hope he will prove an important asset to the ERF.”
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HORSE HEALTH I NEWS 5
Owners invited to take part in consultation By Louise Cordell HORSE owners are being invited to take part in a consultation on the newly-released animal welfare codes of practice. The codes, which will be published on the Defra website and in leaflets, will aim to help horse, dog and cat owners understand their responsibilities under the Animal Welfare Act 2006. Since its introduction the act has helped organisations bring successful prosecutions to people mistreating animals and, under its rules, anyone convicted of cruelty to an animal could face a prison sentence or a fine up to £20,000. If a person fails to comply with a code of practice they will not be liable to proceedings, however, failure to comply with several provisions may be used as evidence to support a prosecution for animal cruelty. Environment secretary Hilary Benn said: “The Animal Welfare Act 2006
has been the most important piece of animal legislation for nearly a century. “These three new codes of practice will outline the responsibilities of owners under the act and give practical advice on how to fulfill them. “This means no one will be able to claim ignorance as an excuse for mistreating any animal.” The codes consist of practical advice on how to create a suitable environment for the animal to live in, provide a healthy diet, spot signs of stress and protect the animal from pain, suffering, injury and disease. Specific advice for horses includes the cost of keeping a horse, feeding, shelter and stabling, body condition scoring, equine behaviour and socialisation, transportation and saddlery.
New award for groom Jenny
Consultation on the new codes will last until the end of December and documentation can be found at www.defra.gov.uk.
JENNY Ellis, winner of the 2007 British Groom Award, has now been named FEI International Groom of the Year.
“Now with the help and recognition of the BGA and the FEI, I feel we are credited as a much more vital part of the team.”
The newly-introduced award was judged by the Athletes committee, chaired by Paralympian Lee Pearson and Jenny will now be travelling to Buenos Aires to pick up her prize at the FEI’s General Assembly.
Jenny was put forward for the award by John Whitaker, Richard Davison and Simon Laurens through their nomination for the 2007 Kuster BEF Groom Award.
Scholarships for young riders A GROUP of talented young riders have been awarded scholarships to help them compete while continuing their education. The British Equestrian Federation has secured 32 talented athlete scholarship awards (TASS) for riders competing in both Olympic and nonOlympic disciplines. These include five drivers, two equestrian vaulters, six dressage riders, five show jumpers, five eventers and nine para-equestrian dressage riders. Will Connell, World Class Performance director, said: “This year the standard of applications was extremely high. We have been successful in securing an impressive number and I am particularly pleased that we have managed to secure
more funding for the non-Olympic equestrian sports. These awards really do make a difference to these young athletes and allow them to pursue their equestrian ambitions alongside their education.” The TASS programme aims to provide a seamless transition for riders into higher class competition, while still encouraging them to continue an academic career. It also provides links with regional and national development programmes such as the Pony, Junior and Young Rider squads. The riders who received last year’s scholarships were extremely successful in national and international competition with three eventers winning European medals and dressage riders representing Britain.
Award for Master of Hickstead MASTER of Hickstead, Douglas Bunn, has been awarded the Liz Dudden Trophy by the British Equestrian Writers Association. The trophy is given each year to a person, other than a competitor, who has made a major contribution to equestrian sport. Douglas, a former international
Jenny Ellis with Richard Davison and her 2007 Kuster BEF Groom Award
rider and chef d'equipe of the British team, built and opened the All England Jumping Course at Hickstead, Sussex, in 1960. Since then he has built a reputation for his Sussex showground as one of the best permanent outdoor equestrian venues in the world.
She said: “I am extremely honoured and proud to win this award. I hope it will help to give inspiration and incentive to all grooms, and to realise that the vocational job that we do is now becoming recognised worldwide.
Lucy Katan from the BGA said: “I was approached by the FEI asking if we could nominate a British groom for this new award and it was an obvious choice to put forward our most recent winner of the British groom award.
“When I started out, there were a few turnout classes we could win, but I never dreamt that anything like this could ever happen.
“I am delighted that the FEI have created this award and proud that a British groom and BGA member has won it.”
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HORSE HEALTH I NEWS
Editor’s insight... AS 2008 draws to a close, it’s always interesting to look back over the year, and we have certainly had some great highlights. Our Going for Gold feature with Ryan Prater was a great success, and very popular across the readership. Although this series has now come to an end, we look forward to visiting Ryan from time to time during 2009 to follow his progress and, of course, we congratulate him on his forthcoming marriage to Anika, early in the New Year.
Christine Keate
We are continually grateful to all who contribute to the pages of Horse Health, we endeavour to cover both the conventional, and sometimes less conventional
approaches to equine care, and to keep abreast of new technologies and veterinary achievements. Certainly one of the most comprehensive seminars I attended this year, was that on emerging exotic diseases at Tattersalls in June. Experts from across the world gathered to give detailed accounts as to what might occur and how, the control procedures in place, and the potential, of a vaccine for African Horse Sickness. Disease control remained an issue for much of the year, with horses flying to Hong Kong for the Olympic Games. The extraordinary measures, and attention to detail, taken for their
welfare, ensured the cream of the sport horse population were able to compete to the best of their abilities. We are pleased to continue our association with the Thoroughbred Breeders’ Association, and look forward to working more closely with them in the coming year. Dr Mark Kennedy writes in the Bloodstock Matters feature in this issue, and will continue throughout the year, to examine problems and issues concerning equine behaviour. Indications are that 2009 will prove a challenging year on many levels, however, all at Horse Health wish you well for the festive season and everything the new year might bring.
Call for employers to give membership gift THE British Grooms Association is asking employers to consider treating their staff to a gift that will last all year long – a membership to their professional association.
recruitment and retention problems and we desperately want to help the employers by promoting the job of a groom and encouraging more young people to consider the career route.
Lucy Katan, BGA executive director, said: “We are aware of how employers are suffering from severe
“It is also crucial for us to offer support and help to the employer in the areas of staff motivation and
Advertiser’s annnouncement
Make way for the next generation Cyclo-ssage Pro Equine Massage System MAKE way for the next generation Cyclo-ssage Pro Equine Massage System Having launched the original Pro Equine Massage System in 2007, Cyclo-ssage have worked with their manufacturers in Germany to produce a brand new, improved, Next Generation Pro Equine Massage System. The lightweight, rug-based system now features extended massage areas which encompass the shoulder and hind quarter areas – ensuring the massage is applied directly to the horse’s main muscle groups via a choice of various intensities and programs. The inclusion of a detachable neck piece option brings the total massage motor number to fourteen and leads to a softer, more relaxed horse from poll to tail. Cyclo-ssage have fine-tuned the system to include a soft breathable mesh along the spine and crest, elasticated cross surcingles, lithium ion battery and twin, removable and washable fleece linings in both the neck piece and rug.
The system has already proved to assist in the easing of muscle pain and tension, as well as improving spinal and joint mobility, reducing lactic acid build up, stimulating the lymph system and helping the body evacuate metabolic products. On top of this the system increases the circulation and transportation of oxygen, helps to accelerate recovery after injury and reduces the chance of muscle wastage in horses on box rest. Prices start at £2,000 + VAT. For more information, or to organise a free demonstration, tel: 0800 169 2808 or visit www.cyclo-ssage.com
retention. We need our employers to continue to support the association in order for us to continue to provide this much needed help and joining their staff up for Christmas is a great way to do it.” As well as becoming part of the association supporting grooms within
the equine industry, members also receive exclusive discounts on a number of things including personal accident insurance with SEIB, a £10 Derby House discount voucher and the quarterly magazine, British Grooms, featuring useful tips, advice and stories.
New online training and welfare website launched THE British Horseracing Authority has launched a new online training and welfare website. The system gives racehorse trainers a new way to manage their daily tasks, vaccination records, training work lists and injury and medical records. It is a confidential database that can be customised and expanded to suit individual yards and can provide up to date reports on each horse’s status. The site has been developed by the BHA, Weatherbys and the Horserace Betting Levy Board and, although all personal information on the system will remain confidential, anonymised data will be able to be used by the BHA for the improvement of equine welfare. Resources available through
the system include a daily task module, providing an up to date list of all critical welfare tasks and a vaccination module which lists all vaccinations that are due and calculates the next due date, prompting the user with a reminder. There is also a training section which includes details of daily work, recording speed, distance, surface, incline and intervals, plus walker, schooling and box rest. Finally there are the medical and injury sections, which record the date and type of incident, the description and outcome of the examination and treatment details including type of medication, who authorised and administered it and dosage and duration of treatment.
Trophy first for Sophie SOPHIE Christiansen has become the first ever para-equestrian dressage rider to be awarded the Raymond Brooks-Ward Memorial Trophy. The prize is given to the most promising rider under 25 years old competing in any of the eventing, dressage or show jumping disciplines and will be presented to Sophie at Olympia in December.
Sophie was a member of Great Britain’s gold medal winning team at the 2008 Beijing Paralympic Games, and also won individual silver in the individual test and gold in the freestyle. She said: “I feel totally honoured to be recognised with such a prestigious award. It really makes it all worthwhile when other people notice your achievements.”
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HORSE HEALTH I NEWS 7
New concept in saddle design is launched By Louise Cordell A NEW concept in saddle design, aimed at bringing together the latest technology and the horse’s comfort, has been launched. Ten years and £1m has been spent on the development of the Quantum AMS Saddle including independent scientific testing and trials. The new design has been tried out on all kinds of horses, from remedial cases to competition horses and a number of international riders have tried out and approved the equipment. The development team include Richard Seymour and Dick Powell, ARRK – an engineering and science company and Cambridge vet Andy Bathe. The Quantum team came up with the concept after realising that the traditional saddle design had not changed significantly in over 200 years, while equipment for other sports disciplines had embraced technological advances. The Quantum saddle aims to
change this by using advanced design to eliminate pressure points and the most advanced materials for the best strength, performance and weight. The traditional tree is replaced with a ‘chassis’ made up of two structural carbon fibre fins which are contoured to fit the horse’s back and distribute pressure evenly, regardless of rider position. The seat is separated from the ‘chassis’ so that it can be fitted to the rider, without affecting the fit for the horse and the stirrup bar is attached further back than usual to improve pressure distribution and free up shoulder movement. Finally, the girth is mounted on to the fins using a ‘W’ three point, ‘self-righting’ system that holds the saddle in place and eliminates the need for breastplates, which can impair the horse’s flexibility. The first saddle available to the public, the Quantum AMS-J jump will be released in February and a dressage saddle will go on sale the following month.
Plans for second event THE first equine educational evening organised by Catherine Mace-Nelson at Fritton Lake Stables has been a big success. Speakers including Dr Colin Roberts and Duncan Hannant gave presentations for horse owners on West Nile Fever and African Horse Sickness, zoonoses and other notifiable diseases. Also attending were Victor Franco
and Mike Bardsley from The Three Rivers Veterinary Group and Diane Gilby from EPL Animal Care who presented an overview of the 'Intelligent Worming' programme. Plans are now being made to hold a second event in the spring covering laminitis, grass sickness, cushings and care of the veteran horse. For more information contact Catherine on 07711 931888.
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System must be cared for By Kate Coles BSc (Hons) Equine America (UK) Ltd AS the weather turns colder and the nights start to draw in many of us will be suffering the effects of the common ‘cold’. But what about our horses?
In more severe cases the lower respiratory system and the lungs are affected. This condition is known as Recurrent Airway Obstruction or Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease and is a similar condition to asthma.
remove the elements that trigger the problem. Turnout is important but is not always possible or practical all winter. However, with careful management respiratory health can be greatly improved.
The respiratory system has a direct effect on health and performance and this delicate system must be understood and cared for, especially in the winter months.
In its more progressed stages it can be referred to as heaves, due to the lines visible down the sides of the animal created from the strain of constant coughing.
Management
Respiratory obstructions or infections will reduce efficiency of air intake, resulting in reduced performance. The main causes of respiratory distress are viral or bacterial infections or allergic reactions to non-infectious agents such as dust and spores.
In these cases, your vet will prescribe treatment and may include the use of a nebuliser.
Keeping the stable clean is essential as dirty ammonia filled stables are very bad for the respiratory system.
These conditions or symptoms can become more apparent during the winter as the amount of time that a horse spends in the stable in generally increased.
Hay can also contribute to respiratory problems, as the horse eats or pulls hay from a net, dust is released right into the nose.
Long term conditions are often as a result of poorly ventilated, unclean stables or mouldy hay and feed.
If you are concerned about your horse’s respiratory health, especially if the horse is particularly lethargic, off food or losing weight, has temperature, severe cough, enlarged glands or smelly or discoloured mucus discharge then contact your veterinary surgeon for advice.
An allergic reaction to these elements or pathogens in the environment can vary greatly in severity. In milder cases it may only be the upper respiratory system that is affected with slight congestion or nasal discharge.
The best solution for a horse with any kind of respiratory problem is to
Ensure stables or barns are well ventilated with fresh air and choose a bedding that is low in dust content such as shavings.
This can be solved by feeding haylage and dust free forage but, some horses, especially good doers, will find haylage too rich. In these situations feed good quality hay but soak it first. Over soaking hay can destroy its nutritional content but it must be soaked long enough for the dust particles to swell.
Supplements The main aim of respiratory
supplements is to open and soothe the airways, boost the immune system and reduce congestion. Menthol, peppermint and eucalyptus all provide refreshing vapours that help to break down nasal congestion and open the airways and honey, glycerine and aloe vera will soothe and coat the throat reducing the tickle that can aggravate a cough. It is also important to support the immune system of horses with respiratory weaknesses, as a reduction will leave the horse more susceptible to infections and viruses – garlic, echinacea and astragalus are all known for their benefits to the immune system. Managing horses is all about creating an environment and providing correct nutrition that encourages both optimal mental and physical health. The respiratory system is so vital to health and performance it must be maintained to the highest degree through good management and exercise.
Advertiser’s announcement
Treating the cause and not the symptom THERE is a growing amount of horses and ponies that suffer from respiratory problems and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and there are products on the market that help alleviate the symptoms by suppressing the cough, but about a week after they are stopped the cough and symptoms can recur. The respiratory herbs from Ellen Collinson Herbal Products however, treat the cause and not the symptom, this will on occasions make the symptoms, i.e. cough, worse before it gets better, but once the coughing stops it will not reoccur when the herbal course is finished. The herbs in this combination are known to aid to the body to naturally relieve irritation and to help discharge mucus secretions from the bronchopulmonary passages. This product contains herbs which are well documented as the finest herbs for the respiratory tract, and have been used as both a tonic and
a vulnerary from ancient times to the present. Respiratory herbs are part of the best selling range of Ellen Collinson herbal products which can be ordered on their website www.EllenCollinson.co.uk where more information can also be found on all of their products. Alternatively call their office on 0845 260 3602.
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Feeding and nutrition
Well-ventilated stables and soaked hay can help improve respiratory health
The respiratory system RESPIRATION is the process of drawing air and oxygen, needed for energy conversion, into the body and the expulsion of air and carbon dioxide, the waste product of this conversion, from the body. The first part of the respiratory system is the head or more accurately the nostrils. Horses, unlike humans, cannot breathe through their mouths. To accommodate the large amount of air required for speed the nostrils have adapted to expand, maximising air flow. The air then passes into the nasal passages and each passage contains three delicate bones called turbinates. The third and furthest turbinate is responsible for smell, but collectively these bones along with the hair that covers the nasal passages, warm and filter the air before it passes onto the next part of the respiratory system. The nasal passages also connect to the sinuses, large chambers of air within the horse’s head which reduce the weight of the skull.
Although not directly involved in respiration, the sinuses can often be affected by respiratory viruses as a secondary infection. The air then passes into the pharynx, a muscular area at the back of the throat involved in both breathing and swallowing. The air will pass through the pharynx into the larynx, which provides support for the epiglottis, contains the vocal cords and connects the pharynx to the trachea. The epiglottis is a piece of tissue, activated when the horse swallows, flipping over the larynx preventing food entering the trachea. The wind pipe is a tube supported and held open by ridged rings of cartilage, which lead from the head to the chest cavity. Once in the chest cavity the wind pipe separates into two branches called bronchi, connecting to each lung. The bronchi then divide into many branches called bronchioles, until ending in alveoli where the exchange of gases takes place.
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Prebiotics and Probiotics ... Blue Chip Feed explore the benefits ... OPTIMISING the health and efficiency of the equine digestive system is the goal of every stable manager, so understanding the basic physiology underpinning the function or dysfunction of the gastrointestinal tract, is fundamental to avoiding undesirable digestive upsets that may possibly manifest as a simple loss of performance, or a fatal colic. Amongst the ‘tools’ increasingly available are the natural digestive aids known as prebiotics and probiotics, but knowledge of their potential to support a healthy and efficient equine digestive system is often superficial and they can frequently be misunderstood.
intended job of supporting the healthy, effective functioning of the equine digestive system. Fructooligosaccharide (FOS) prebiotic products have a completely different mode of action. FOS acts as a substrate (food) for the naturally occurring (gram positive) bacteria that produce lactic acid to reduce the pH in the gut lumen, so inhibiting the pathogenic bacteria and hence helping to maintain a healthy gut flora by competitive exclusion. Turning to the consideration of probiotics the situation is further complicated as unlike the prebiotic ‘sugars’, probiotics are regulated by the EU and only two, both yeasts, are licensed by the EU as probiotics for inclusion into equine feedstuffs.
In modern equine nutrition, attention to widely available research information reveals that the most effective prebiotics currently available are mannanoligosaccharides (MOS).
To clarify the situation further, contrary to surprisingly common belief, there are no live ‘bacteria’ currently licensed by the EU as equine probiotics.
Mannanoligosaccharide prebiotics are complex sugars that are not used as a substrate (food) by either the host animal (the horse), or the bacteria (flora) resident in the normal gastro intestinal (GI) tract.
The potential benefits of feeding Yea-Sacc 1026 are derived from its effects on the digestive process that can be described as ‘improving digestive performance’.
MOS has the uniquely effective action of efficiently removing gram negative (pathogenic) bacteria from the GI tract, including salmonella and E-coli, by binding them tightly to itself, and so effectively ‘blocking’ the binding sites they would otherwise use to attach to the gut wall as an essential precursor to causing digestive upsets and/or disease. Acting in this way, MOS functions as a ‘raft’ to which only the pathogenic bacteria can bind, carrying them out of the gut to finally ‘starve’ in the droppings. Bio Mos is probably the most respected trade name for this form of prebiotic that directly removes pathogenic bacteria, leaving the natural gut flora to do their
It acts to stimulate the naturally resident bacteria in the caecum, which are broadly classified as either fibre digestors or lactic acid utilisers, so keeping the pH balanced for optimum digestion. As a result, the horse benefits from an increased nutrient availability and a more stable, healthy gut function. This is not the same physiological effect as adding a bacterial probiotic, such as a live natural yoghurt, to the diet, which in humans act to ‘top up’ the numbers of naturally occurring bacteria, such as lactobacilli in the GI tract, resulting in the much-advertised benefits we are all exposed to daily. These products are unproven in the horse and none are licensed by the EU for use in equine feedstuffs.
‘Amongst the ‘tools’ increasingly available are the natural digestive aids known as prebiotics and probiotics, but knowledge of their potential to support a healthy and efficient equine digestive system is often superficial and they can frequently, be misunderstood’
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Feeding and nutrition
HORSE HEALTH I
Equine colic causes are numerous By Lizzie Drury MSc registered nutritionist, Saracen Horse Feeds IN simple terms equine colic can be defined as abdominal pain. The causes are numerous, and the signs of discomfort typically include rolling, kicking at the abdomen, pawing the ground and sweating. Colic is one of the most common health emergencies, one of the leading reasons for surgery and a frequent cause of death in horses. However, years of research have been devoted to sorting out management practices that are associated with the causes of colic and this research still continues today. There have been some general conclusions made about factors that may put horses at increased risk and this article will look at a summary of trends that have been identified by several independent studies.
Breed: Some studies identified Thoroughbreds, Arabs and warmbloods as having more frequent colics than other breeds, while other studies have found that the opposite was true. To date there are no proven trends.
Age: There is some evidence that colics occur more frequently in horses between the ages of two and ten and there after in elderly horses with poor dentition. Horses between the ages of two and ten are more likely to be in heavier and more frequent training and therefore subjected to increased stress levels from increased travelling, competitions and changes in routine. Old horses with poor dentition are less able to chew their feed properly, in particular long forages.
Use: One study has indicated a higher prevalence in breeding stock compared with leisure horses. Colonic twists are common in broodmares and heavy lactation may induce dehydration or electrolyte imbalance.
Pasture versus stable: Horses that are kept out to grass for 24 hours a day have low rates of colic and the risk increases as stable time increases. Horses kept at pasture are allowed to trickle feed and exhibit normal feeding patterns. Stabled horses may get less exercise, restricted forage intake and can be
under increased stress through boredom and lack of companionship.
Concentrate portion of the diet: Any inclusion of hard feed increased the risk of colic over forage only diets. The risk increased further as the amount of hard feed intake increased, even if the feed was split between two or three feeds per day. Horses that were given more or less of their normal hard feed ration, a different type of hard feed or any type of mouldy feed also had increased risk of colic. Horses that are in hard work or are difficult to maintain body condition are likely to require higher hard feed intakes. The risk of colic can be reduced by basing every horse’s diet on the use of good quality forage and replacing some of the hard feed with fat supplements such as rice bran and digestible fibre sources. Replacing cereals with fat and fibre can help reduce hindgut acidosis.
Forage portion of the diet: Horses getting 100 per cent of their forage intake from grazing have the lowest incidence of colic. Plenty of turnout allows the horse to exhibit natural grazing and browsing behaviour and free movement to maintain normal gastrointestinal contraction patterns. Feed the horse as he evolved to be fed and the risk of colic is proven to be significantly reduced.
Water: Water deprivation increases the risk of colic. Horses that were kept in stables and had automatic watering devices also showed a higher incidence of colic when compared to horses that drank out of water buckets. It is difficult to keep track of water consumption using automatic watering systems. Horses should always have access to plenty of fresh and clean water, as diet, exercise, health, physiological state and environmental temperature can all significantly change a horse’s daily water requirement.
History of previous colic: Horses that had been treated for colic were more likely to have another episode than horses that had never suffered from colic. If a horse has been previously treated for colic consider possible management or feeding strategies that may have led to the colic in the first instance and modify accordingly. If the colic
The risk of colic can be reduced by basing the diet on good quality forage. was surgical, adhesions or other complications could lead to another attack.
Other factors: The risk of colic was somewhat higher for horses that had stable vices; were non aggressive and at the bottom of the herd pecking order; grazed sandy soils; were given two or more different supplements; had had antibiotic treatment; had been dewormed or had health problems other than colic. What does this information mean in terms of feeding and managing horses? Colic can occur in even the most carefully managed and fed horses, Any changes in the horse’s routine may be linked to colic, most significantly feeding changes, such as kind, timing or sequence. This is possibly due to how the horse evolved and is designed to trickle feed on an almost continual basis. The microflora are also sensitive to change and rapid fluctuations in pH, lactic acid concentration or volatile
acid production should be avoided. Try to avoid change and stick to a routine and make any feeding changes gradually over a period of ten to 14 days. It is important to realise that some factors are associated with an increased risk of colic but that these factors do not necessarily cause the colic. For example; although using an automatic water system increased the risk of colic, this practice does not cause a horse to colic, and watering from a water bucket will not prevent colic. Horses are individuals and owners need to evaluate feeding and management practices according to work levels, temperament, age and metabolic rate. There are limitations to any study that considers all types of colic as the same illness. Conclusions that apply to one type of colic may have nothing to do with another type of colic.
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HORSE HEALTH I
Newmarket Equine Hospital
Europe’s most advanced equine facility welcomes first patients ... THE Newmarket Equine Hospital, Europe’s most advanced medical facility, finally opened its doors to patients last month. The multi-million pound, state of the art facilities have been in development for over ten years and are now home to specialist vets Greenwood Ellis and Partners. Over 70 staff, including 30 vets, work at the facility and senior partner, David Ellis, said: “We are immensely proud of the new development and are looking forward to offering an even better service for our existing clients and hopefully welcoming many new ones.” The site has been designed to be
completely horse friendly, with a layout that means visitors’ vehicles, horse boxes and delivery lorries are kept away from the patients at all times. The design of the main hospital building is an asymmetric cross with four wings – reception and offices, laboratory, diagnostics and theatres. In addition there is a separate intensive care unit and an expanded diagnostic unit for the advanced imaging services. The intensive care unit has six boxes, all equipped with individual ventilation, heating systems, CCTV and observation panels, so that the animals can be monitored 24 hours a day by the vets and their owners.
Partners Simon Waterhouse and Mark Hillyer outside one of the two American style barns The theatres have been up and running smoothly since the move, with over 100 surgeries performed already, and the unit includes dedicated orthopaedic and soft tissue suites with high spec facilities and networked digital imaging. It is surrounded by four padded and CCTV monitored anesthetic induction and recovery stalls which will help the staff to cope easily with the 1000 surgeries performed annually. The hospital has also expanded its diagnostic capabilities and now has two high powered x-ray suites, ultrasonography, nuclear scintigraphy (bone scanning) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). There is on site stabling for 83 horses including two American style barns and two outdoor stable blocks which provide individual air space for each horse to minimise the risk of cross infection.
Routine surgery
Next door to these, to allow the vets to check horses for lameness, there is an examination area with a floodlit 20x40m ménage, hard and soft lunging areas and two trot-up runways. Finally, a separate pathology block and isolation unit have been included so that there is no chance of an infectious animal coming into contact with any other patients. The hospital has now announced the introduction of its latest piece of technology – a dynamic respiratory endoscope, which will allow the vets to scope the airways of a horse as it exercises. This will allow them to investigate poor performance related to respiratory disorders in all types of horses whilst exercising under normal conditions, then work out the best course of management or treatment.
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HORSE HEALTH I
Bloodstock matters
Mare takes active role in mating By Dr Mark Kennedy, chief executive of Anglia Equine Consultancy WE know an amazing amount about the physiology of equine reproduction, yet in comparison there has been little study of reproductive behaviour.
her, often including the twitch. This very significantly curtails her reproductive behaviour and masks her true nature as an active participant in mating. Therefore, in nature both mare and stallion are clearly highly motivated to mate when in the right reproductive condition.
Possibly this is due to the belief that if we bring a stallion and mare in reproductive condition together at the right time of year, they will always mate as a matter of course.
If, when given the opportunity in the managed situation, they won’t mate or mating only occurs with difficulty, there must be a significant problem which needs to be addressed.
Undeniably, in appropriate reproductive condition, stallions are highly motivated to mate when presented with oestrus mares (McDonnell, 1992).
Stallions may exhibit a reduction in, or even loss of, libido.
Unlike mares, they can be encouraged to breed all year, but factors influencing efficiency of reproduction such as semen volume, sperm concentration, number of sperm per ejaculate and the time taken to react to oestrus mares are all poorer in the non-breeding season (Davies Morel, 2008). Mares are also highly motivated to mate when in oestrus. In studies of pasture breeding and feral horses nearly all early oestrus sexual interactions start with the mare approaching the stallion. Although the stallion may approach the mare as she progresses towards the peak of oestrus, 88 per cent of encounters that led to actual copulation were initiated by the mare (McDonnell, 2000). She takes a much more active role in mating than many realise, not only seeking out and approaching the stallion, but stimulating him by swinging her hips towards him or moving ahead of him to present her hindquarters, and adjusting her posture to help him enter and to support his weight during mating (McDonnell, 2000). It is probable that it is our management of the mare during breeding which has led to the mistaken belief that she is not a particularly active partner in reproduction. We take her to the stallion rather than letting her approach voluntarily and we apply significant restraint to
They may mount and enter mares, begin thrusting, but stop and appear to ‘give up’, dismounting without ejaculating and losing their erection. They then require further exposure to the mare before becoming aroused enough to mount again, sometimes requiring several such cycles before finally ejaculating. This is not normal behaviour. In freerunning horses, stallions frequently mount repeatedly without erection, perhaps to test the mare’s acceptance of mating. However, when they mount with erection and enter the mare they nearly always ejaculate (McDonnell, 1992). Some stallions may fail to ejaculate at all. If no physiological damage is revealed upon veterinary investigation, the problem may be psychological, and warrant investigation along behavioural lines.
Managed breeding: Having learned the cues which indicate mating is imminent, such as a mare arriving at the covering shed, stallions can learn to anticipate breeding, and become difficult or dangerous to handle. Such stallions may tow their handlers into the breeding shed, bucking, rearing and screaming, and launch themselves upon mares from a distance, terrifying them in the process. This is far from normal behaviour. In nature, the stallion and mare spend significant periods in pre-copulatory interaction before he is allowed to mount (McDonnell, 2000).
Stallions learn to be very cautious of the mare’s potential reaction; flying hindlegs can inflict very painful and damaging injury. Any stallion suddenly leaping upon mares in the violent manner described above would very soon sustain serious injury and learn the error of his ways, no matter how well in oestrus the mare was. With the restraint imposed upon mares in managed horse breeding, specifically aimed at stopping them kicking out, many domestic stallions do not learn these lessons, hence the development of antisocial, dangerous behaviour. This is a difficult, but not unsolvable problem. Of course, we must minimise the risk to stallions, however, they must learn the correct way to behave around mares for the safety of all concerned. It is notable that experienced teaser stallions, frequently used to ‘bounce’ (mount) maiden mares or those considered to be unpredictable, are often the best behaved in the covering shed.
magnitude, ‘one trial conditioning’ can occur; triggering the original behavioural response on any reminder of the original experience (Kelly, 1980). This explains why behaviour problems can suddenly appear ‘out of the blue’ in both stallions and mares. In such an eventuality it may be rewarding to examine the animal’s recent history in an attempt to identify any trauma that may have resulted in ‘one trial conditioning’ as described above. Another problem particularly common in young, inexperienced mares, is of physiological oestrus on veterinary examination, but a lack of oestrus behaviour when teased. In nature, mares live within a harem group of mature mares, their immature offspring, and usually one breeding stallion which remains with them all year round (McDonnell and Murray, 1995). In domestication, however, mares often have very little contact with stallions apart from teasing and mating.
They learn the correct way to behave around mares; with care, experience and the appropriate knowledge we can teach this to our breeding stallions.
The fact that some oestrus mares may not show oestrus behaviour to the teaser stallion, or react to him with fear, may be due to inexperience of stallions.
Behavioural problems:
Housing such a mare close to a stallion may be beneficial, although care must be taken not to simply reinforce her fear of him.
Mares can also become problematical breeders, often showing oestrus well at the teasing board, but on presentation to the stallion becoming violent and intolerant of mounting. This is possibly a consequence of unruly stallion behaviour as described above. Horses remember an unpleasant experience for a long time, and when exposed to similar stimuli, may react violently. Thus a mare used to teasing at home with a familiar stallion may show normal signs of oestrus, yet in the less-familiar covering shed, especially if the stimuli there rekindle bad experiences, she may become violent in an attempt to avoid the stallion. This illustrates an important concept in equine behaviour. If the trauma of a single experience is of sufficient
Conclusion: The physiology of reproduction must be right in order to achieve a healthy foal. Behaviour must also occur appropriately to facilitate the deposition of sperm in the mare’s reproductive tract in order to permit conception. The assumption that this behaviour will always occur faultlessly when we introduce stallions and mares is an oversimplification which does not fit our experience. In such cases, careful examination of the problem and thorough understanding of the psychology of reproduction is required. For full references visit www.horsehealthmagazine.co.uk.
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Bloodstock matters
Thoroughbred Racing and Breeding Seminar ... By Christine Keate DELEGATES from across the equine industry gathered on 13 November for the Thoroughbred Racing and Breeding Seminar, held in association with the HBLB, Intervet, and Dodson and Horrell and hosted by Cheltenham Racecourse. Enhanced question and answer sessions, together with a ‘News Bulletin’ slot, aimed to make the event more up to the minute and pacey.
Immune systems: Professor Derek Knottenbelt opened with a fascinating trip around the equine immune system, and an excellent analogy based upon the defence of a medieval castle. The idea that an immune response might not be mounted because the sentries could be either dead, asleep or, heaven forbid, drunk, brought life to what could have been an extremely dry subject. He explained, that although vital to survival, the immune system is a ‘double edged sword’, when hyperactive it may cause fatal disease with an overwhelming allergic reaction, but that a lack of response, immunodeficiency, opens the animal to infection and possibly tumours. The failure of the immune system to recognise self, from non-self, autoimmune disease, can result in a reaction against the animal’s own tissues. He suggested that the idea that multiple vaccinations and repeated challenges with many infective organisms ‘over-taxes’ the immune system, grossly overlooks its basic ability. Managing the immune system of the newborn foal continued the theme and Nick Wingfield Digby looked at the importance of good quality colostrum in the health of newborn foals. He discussed the immunological condition and haemolytic disease, together with the inherited
conditions of Combined Immunodeficiency of Arab foals, and Fell pony immune syndrome. Professor Christine Nicol introduced some interesting concepts when examining the relationship between feed and behaviour in the foal, and opened the door for further research. She also discussed a study of developing foals which showed that feeding practices had a significant effect on the relative rate of development of abnormal oral behaviour. Feeding grain-based feeds immediately after weaning, resulted in a four-fold increase in risk. With regard to crib-biting and its association with feeding, she explored the suggestion that the behaviour might arise due to the horse’s attempt to stimulate additional saliva production in an effort to reduce excessive acidity. The stomachs of crib-biting foals showed significantly greater evidence of inflammation and early ulceration than those of non crib-biting foals. She suggested the incidence of cribbiting in the adult horse is increased when the diet comprises a low forage high grain content with an inedible bed – such a diet affords little opportunity to chew, and therefore less saliva is produced.
Breeding: Selective breeding, the underpinning of the thoroughbred breeding industry, is currently based on the phenotype (observable physical or biological characteristics) of the sire and dam, and their parentage – speed and stamina being key traits breeders aspire to. There is little support for genetic manipulation for performance in the thoroughbred industry, and it is not likely to be that effective. This is reflected in the money the horse wins having relatively low heritability; just 10 per cent of a horse's lifetime winnings can be attributed to their bloodline.
Continued on Page 18
‘He explained, that although vital to survival, the immune system is a ‘double edged sword’, when hyperactive it may cause fatal disease with an overwhelming allergic reaction, but that a lack of response, immunodeficiency, opens the animal to infection and possibly tumours’
Derek Knottenbelt
HORSE HEALTH I 17
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Bloodstock matters
Potential to cut injuries Continued from Page 17 Professor Tim Morris examined how traits are passed between generations, and examined the possibility that certain genes appear good markers of diseases that do have higher heritability. This information is part of the horse’s genotype, its complete genetic make up and could potentially be used for screening for susceptibility to, understanding of, and possibly even treating specific diseases. Because of concerns from breeders it was clearly stressed, that these approaches are being made with great caution, and that no single gene for performance exists, nor is it being sought – this is not the focus of the research, which is focused on the potential to maximise the chance of producing healthy competitive horses, by increased scientific knowledge of the genotype also having an input into possible pairings.
The extensive information they, in conjunction with Weatherbys, contain enables records to be maintained of every fatal and nonfatal injury, on every racecourse and, it is hoped, increasingly records from training. The effects of surface, going, distance, course type, incidence of injury, race type, and size of field are amongst the statistics which can be presently analysed using simple measures. It was suggested that fuller scientific analysis of the dataset would reveal previously unseen relationships between two or more of these factors, and demonstrate what is the most important, and therefore, provide enhanced potential to reduce injuries. Funding for this large project is currently being sought.
The overground endoscope limb, when there is no ‘slip’ as the hoof hits the ground.
New technology:
Equine welfare:
There was not a face in the auditorium that did not wince during Professor Alan Wilson’s presentation on computerised gait analysis.
In a separate presentation, Anthony Stirk and Professor Morris went on to discuss the Equine Welfare, and the Training and Welfare System databases.
A slow motion video of a horse landing and taking off over a bounce combination in a cross country course clearly demonstrated the concussion and jarring through the
The horse’s natural shock absorbing mechanism allows the hoof to slide forward on impact, (the hoof lands, slides and comes to a halt in less than 1/25th of a second) and the implications of preventing this were shocking for all to see.
of highspeed treadmill endoscopy led into the next generation – the overground endoscopy. It is hoped this system will enable a greater number of underachieving horses to be examined in the field and will potentially revolutionise the diagnosis of dynamic airway collapse in athletic horses.
It is the use of high speed video (filmed at 1,000 frames per second) that allows this detailed visual analysis to be made.
Finally, Professor Knottenbelt returned to reveal the latest in wound care protocols, and just why wounds might fail to heal.
This, and other advances in computerised gait analysis techniques provide key research tools into understanding the biomechanics of injury and performance, in horses.
He reminded all of the basic principle behind wound management ‘to do no harm’.
Technological development also formed the basis for the presentation by Dr Samantha Franklin and Geoffrey Lane. Their investigation into the benefits
All too frequently complications in healing are caused by wholly inappropriate treatment or neglect by the owner and he urged veterinary practices to advise their clients in the stocking of their first aid boxes.
‘Litigation on increase’ A RECENT equine law seminar has revealed that litigation in the industry is on the increase. Equine barristers Graeme McPherson QC and Richard Liddell spoke at law firm Martineau’s seminar on how best to avoid costly legal disputes involving horse ownership, contractual relationships, veterinary treatment and issues of informed consent. Richard Liddell said: “The equine industry has unsurprisingly become yet another victim of today’s compensation culture. This has resulted in a substantial increase in the quantity and cost of disputes and the equine industry has been hit by escalating insurance costs. “We are seeing an increasing number of claims litigation relating to the buying and selling of horses, which are frequently based around issues of inaccurate pre-purchase information. “Veterinarians are also facing an
increased risk of being sued. “Pre-purchase veterinary examinations frequently give rise to such claims if abnormalities are missed and they come to light after purchase. In order to reduce legal disputes it is important that purchasers provide clear instructions to their veterinarians and that the veterinarians keep good records of those instructions together with their findings on examination.” Graeme McPherson QC added: “At the root of many equine disputes is a lack of written agreements or records. It is advisable to put as much as possible in writing – livery or training agreements, pre-sale discussions, the terms of sale and purchase agreements, veterinary instructions and advice and so forth. “Without written evidence, claims can become a battle of memories and will be time consuming, costly and uncertain.”
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Arena
HORSE HEALTH I 19
The right approach IF you are thinking of applying for planning permission, whether for a specific development or a change of use, approaching it in the right way can save you time and money. To help people through the planning procedure, Business Link are running a series of free workshops across the South East.
Tony Martin, director of McArdle Equestrian Surfaces, highlights some of the issues to take into account before building an arena.
Planning is major factor in arena build THERE are many factors to consider when planning the build of an arena, which will be the centre of your commercial activities and training. You will already have an idea of where you would like it situated, the type of surface you prefer, whether dressage boarding or post and rail fencing is required, and aesthetically, how it will look within your grounds. Planning is a major factor, the size of the arena, location, access and visibility of the arena will all be taken into consideration, particularly if you require outdoor lighting, which also requires separate planning permission. An initial meeting with the local planning authority is recommended, together with a site visit to outline your requirements and obtain their
guidelines, particularly with regard to local issues. Once you have ironed out any unusual matters, you are now ready to meet your prospective contractors and obtain various quotes for the build works. It is a very good idea to view some completed arenas and talk to previous customers, both recent and from a few years ago, to see how the work and surface last. You will also want to check that a high specification of drainage would be used and where the water would be directed, to avoid the risk of creating problems elsewhere on your property. Your contractor will check access to the site as there are potentially hundreds of tonnes of stone and other materials to be delivered, it
will depend on the time of year and access as to whether they can continue if the weather/land becomes very wet, or if there is lorry access at all. It is good practice for contractors to use a laser level when they initially visit the site to check the area where the arena is to be sited – a parcel of land that looks level can often be deceptive and the larger the arena, the less likely you are to notice with the naked eye if there is a fall on the land. Ask the representative contractor if they too will be on site if works were to commence or if they sub contract the work out, you would be very disappointed if you had built up a good relationship with the representative of the company only to find out that he will not be involved once you go ahead.
Nick Ide, head of planning and development at Batcheller Thacker, said: “Planning doesn’t do businesses any favours at all when it appears daunting and remote. “However, there are ways of navigating through the process. Remember, if you are a business, planning is only a means of achieving your objectives.” The council has a target time of completing 80 per cent of smaller applications within eight weeks, and the majority of major planning applications need to be decided within 16 weeks. However, making an application doesn’t just mean filling in the form, preparation is everything and can mean the difference between an application being accepted or rejected.
Dos and Don’ts: Do prepare a business plan to provide an all important context for your proposal; this should be proportionate to the development envisaged. The bigger the development, the greater the care needed with your business plan. Do meet a council planner to establish at an early stage that the principle of what you propose may be accepted. You may be charged for this but it is money worth spending. Do consider calling in specialists, for example, a planning consultant or surveyor to help you prepare your application. Do be prepared to change or modify your original idea if it will make your application more likely to succeed. Do not rush. There is more to making an application than simply completing the forms - it is all in the preparation.
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Tack shop
HORSE HEALTH I
Bottle range extended MEASOM Freer has extended its tube bottle range to include a new 50ml size. The tube bottles are available in clear PVC and natural HDPE with a wide selection of caps and dispensers to fit. With tubes being increasingly used throughout the pet industry this is a useful addition to its already extensive range. The tube bottles now range from 2.5ml to 50ml and are designed to be user friendly and easy to print on with a wide variety of colours available to order. They are suitable for creams, liquids and gels and have a number of applications including treatments, liquid feeds, supplements, additives and ingredients.
Golden Star marks 100th anniversary LISTER Shearing Equipment has launched a limited edition ‘Golden Star’ clipper to mark its 100th Anniversary. It has been designed to commemorate the British company’s achievements over the past century as well as its ongoing commitment to providing world class clippers, trimmers and shears. The golden ‘Star’ clipper will be available while stocks last from selected stockists across the UK and is the first permanent
magnet motor clipper of its type on the market. As another part of Lister’s centenary celebrations, the company has launched a search to find the two oldest Lister clippers. The oldest entries will each win one of the limited edition golden clippers and entries can be made by sending a picture of the clippers, together with its model name and age to 100years@lister-shearing.co.uk by 28 February 2009.
Equine Products UK is giving Horse Health readers the chance to win a supply of daily probiotic and prebiotic feed supplement. Five winners will receive a two kilogramme tub of Transvite Maintenance – a supplement containing EU approved probiotics, which helps to maintain digestive efficiency, helping horses and ponies get the most out of their feed. For the chance to win send your name, telephone number and address to Equine Products UK Giveaway, Horse Health Magazine, 47 Church Street, Barnsley, South Yorkshire S70 2AS. The last date for entries is 16 January 2009 and winners’ details will be available at www.horsehealthmagazine.co.uk.
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Tack Shop
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Help owners tune in to new skills PAT and Linda Parelli have released the new Parelli Patterns programme, bringing together the Four Levels in one set to help horse owners learn new skills. It covers Playing On Line, At Liberty, Riding FreeStyle and Riding with Finesse and teaches the rider to use the horse’s natural routines for better
communication. The programme focuses on consistency and repetition to help the horse learn more quickly and then start following the patterns with no active guidance. Each set includes a DVD of the
patterns, a pocket book, a coffee table book of photographs and tips from Pat and Linda, plus a wall map to keep track of progress.
address on a postcard to Horse Health Magazine, 47 Church Street, Barnsley, South Yorkshire S70 2AS.
In this issue Horse Health is giving away a Parelli Patterns Programme set – for your chance to win send your name and
The last date for entries is 16 January 2009 and winners’ details will be available at www.horsehealthmagazine.co.uk.
Specially designed to save time and money SIMPLEFIT Ltd manufacture the Centaur range of mobile heated horse rug driers which are specially designed to save time and money. During mild wet winters horse rugs are
almost continually damp from ineffective drying from being hung over doors in stables, tack rooms and barns. They succumb to mildew and rot and, aside from being uncomfortable for
your horse, need replacing more often than necessary.
ready to use, to dry two, three, four, or six full sized rugs.
However, all Centaur rug driers are fully mobile on wheels or wall mountable and are available direct from Simplefit,
A shorter version with four rails is also available and is ideal for drying numnahs and clothing.
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Breeding matters
HORSE HEALTH I
Woodcroft Gonzales
Don Dante
Breeders using BEF evaluations IN the face of an economic downturn, British breeders are making use of the BEF’s Futurity evaluations to sell young horses, reports Jan Rogers. This year, with the increase in costs associated with horse keeping, and a view that buyers won’t have as much money to invest in young horses as they had when the economy was more robust, breeders have looked to overwinter as few young horses as possible by deploying newly available sales mechanisms. The BEF’s Futurity evaluations were launched in 2005, when 100 young horses aged from foals to three years, destined for careers as showjumpers, dressage horses, eventers or sports ponies were
evaluated. Four years on, the Futurity has recorded 550 entries, not only because breeders are seeking to understand whether the horses they have bred are as good as they think they are, but also to add value to the youngstock they intend to sell. Previously, the opportunity for young horses to gain experience and notch up results were in-hand sport horse showing classes which nonetheless make a valuable contribution to the industry, but increasingly, breeders are looking to have their horses evaluated specifically for the purpose for which they were bred. A Futurity evaluation premium means that a young horse has been
So horses are evaluated against a set of criteria for performance potential as dressage horses, eventers, showjumpers or sports ponies, and are awarded a premium which signifies the level of potential the Futurity team believe they exhibit.
Breeder Paul Marshall said: “I have a lovely colt and being a coloured foal by a popular and successful stallion out of a top mare I felt it would sell, but since the downturn in the market I feel that buyers are looking for something other than a nice horse to validate a purchase, they are looking for some concrete evidence that a foal is a good one before they invest, and the Futurity helps.”
More and more, breeders can be seen making use of the award their horses have gained by advertising them for sale with a ‘BEF premium’ – adding value to youngstock, and rubber-stamping their potential in a way which has not been possible until now.
Because the Futurity scoring system includes assessment of veterinary fitness for purpose, conformation, correctness of paces, type, temperament and athleticism, it gives buyers a clearer idea of what they are buying and an indicator of its likely future performance success.
assessed by a sport horse vet and a panel of three specialist evaluators, for its performance potential within any specific discipline.
Advertiser’s announcement
CROSSGATES Bioenergetics Ltd CROSSGATES Bioenergetics Ltd, popular suppliers of Energetic Hair Analysis & Natural remedies are celebrating their 10th anniversary year. Based in Settle, North Yorkshire they provide products mail order to over 11,000 customers throughout Britain, Ireland and Europe. Bioenergetics is a popular holistic energy medicine, which has evolved from homeopathy. It is effective, safe, can be used alongside conventional medicines and by competition horses. Remedies are available to aid many conditions from simple injuries and muscle strains to breeding and laminitis. Many people contact Crossgates regarding complex, recurring or undiagnosable health problems such as skin and physiological conditions. Crossgates work with one of the most advanced and effective bioresonance balancing and remedy selection systems in energetic medicine. This revolutionary, fully automatic PCbased analysis, detects energetic imbalances in the body, which maybe causing the symptoms you see. Analysis is carried out using a witness
of the subject such as a hair sample. The test not only scans the entire body for imbalances but also gives a comprehensive energy balancing session tailored to the patient and produces all the necessary remedies for the client in a complex homeopathic form in one bottle along with a print out of the imbalances. This service allows all the guess work to be taken out of remedy selection to achieve the best results. As well as being used for health problems the analysis is also used by competition horses on a regular basis as a general health check. The company now specialises in Energetic Hair testing. This works by analysing and picking up the imbalances within the body covering the complete physiology of the body and also psychological, emotional and subtle energy systems. There are 222 categories covered during the test and a body status report is produced with a remedy, therefore allowing the body to naturally start to heal. The human side of the business is also getting very busy as they now provide health schemes for companies, hotels and health clubs.
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Breeding matters
HORSE HEALTH I 23
The best possible outcome – Foal Grace Kelly by Garuda K out of Westpoint Freya by Fulton bred and owned by Carrie Adams and Helen Hulse. Picture: Greenlees Equine
Many factors influence fertility By Louise Jones MSc, BSc (Hons) Nutritionist COMPARED to other livestock, horses appear to have a relatively poor reproductive efficiency. A wide range of factors influence fertility and birth rates in the horse including: The age of the mare – those aged nine to 13 years have a 10 to 20 per cent likelihood of losing their pregnancy. The stallion – some can have a cycle conception rate as low as 30 per cent but still achieve excellent pregnancy rates due to repeated coverings. Breeding status (barren, maiden or lactating) – barren and maiden mares are more likely to have twin pregnancies. Nutrition also plays an important role in helping to maximise mare and stallion fertility.
Body Fat: The stallion – In men and other species prolonged high levels of body fat have been shown to result in reduced levels of the sex hormone testosterone, which may contribute to poor libido. Obesity will also place additional stress on the stallion’s heart, lungs and hind quarters particularly during covering and there have been several cases of stallions suffering from heart problems and laminitis. To help maximise fertility, breeding stallions should be maintained at a body fat score of 3-3.5 out of 5. The mare - Pregnancy rates have been shown to be better in mares entering the breeding season with a good body fat score (3-3.5). Mares with poor body fat scores (<3) at mating have been shown to suffer from delayed conception, reduced
pregnancy rates and increased embryonic loss. Similarly, mares with high body fat scores (>3.5) have been reported to have reduced conception rates, abnormal oestrus cycles and hormonal changes. To maximise reproductive efficiency the mare should be placed on a rising plane of nutrition three to four weeks prior to covering and should have a body fat score of 3 to 3.5 at conception, which should be maintained throughout pregnancy.
Omega Fatty Acids: The stallion – Docosahexaenoic acid (DHA, an omega-3 fatty acid) and docosapentaenoic acid (DPA, an omega-6 fatty acid) are major polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) in semen. A lack of these omega vital fatty acids has been shown to reduce sperm mobility and total sperm counts, decreasing the chances of a successful covering. Studies in the USA have shown an increase in total number of motile sperm when stallions were fed a DHA supplement. Similarly, increasing the ratio of DHA to DPA in the semen of several species has been shown to improve fertility and sperm quality. In addition, feeding omega 3 fatty acids to stallions whose semen is cooled or frozen may also be beneficial. Cooling and freezing can result in loss of motility, viability, and thus reduced fertility, however, researchers have shown that by feeding DHA and its precursor total sperm motility is improved 48 hours after cooling. One of the most natural sources of omega 3 fatty acids for stallions is linseed, which contains alphalinolenic acid, a precursor of DHA.
The mare – Certain omega 3 fatty acids (i.e. DHA and eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA)) may help improve the mare’s reproductive efficiency. There is evidence to show that omega 3 fatty acids influence the production of a hormone called prostaglandin F 2-alpha (PGF 2alpha) in a number of mammals and
this may have a major bearing on fertility. Reducing PGF 2-alpha synthesis is thought to aid the maintenance of the corpus luteum, which prepares the uterus for pregnancy and helps maintain the pregnancy by producing the hormone progesterone.
Continued: Page 24
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Breeding matters
Feeding omega three fatty acids can improve stallions’ sperm quality
Fatty acids useful for mares Continued from Page 23 Therefore, omega 3 fatty acids may be particularly useful for mares that have a history of poor conception rates or early abortions. In addition, omega fatty acids have also been shown to be very important for foetal development.
Antioxidants: The stallion – Sperm cells are particularly vulnerable to oxidative damage, caused by free radicals, because their plasma membrane is rich in PUFAs. Free radical damage has been shown to decrease sperm mobility, increase the risk of infertility and reduce conception rates.
Dietary antioxidants help scavenge free radicals preventing them from causing oxidative damage and may help enhance the seminal plasma, which protects and nourishes the sperm. The Mare – There is increasing evidence to suggest that oxidative damage can have detrimental effect on fertility causing reduced conception rates and increase the risk of abortion. However, dietary antioxidants help reduce free radicals that cause oxidative damage, thereby helping to maximise fertility. In studies by Dodson and Horrell feeding a blend of dietary antioxidants has been shown to be more effective at
improving the horses total antioxidant status compared with feeding a single antioxidant in isolation. Therefore, ensuring the mare receive a blend of antioxidants may help reduce oxidative damage and thus have a beneficial effect on fertility.
Trace Minerals: The stallion – Certain trace minerals (e.g. zinc) are vital for healthy sperm. In men, a deficiency in zinc is known to decrease sperm quality and motility and is associated with low testosterone levels. Therefore, it is essential that stallions receive all the essential trace minerals needed to help support sperm
production and health. This can be achieved by feeding a suitable concentrate ration. The Mare – All mares must receive a fully balanced diet as several essential trace minerals may influence reproduction. Research by Dodson and Horrell has shown that even the best pasture will not provide the mare with optimal levels of essential minerals and this could be detrimental to health and fertility. Feeding a well balanced diet will ensure the mare receives all essential trace minerals she requires to keep her reproductive system healthy. A full list of references is available at www.horsehealthmagazine.co.uk.
Four years’ work pays off on equine database THE National Equine Database Online has finally gone live after four years of work. The system holds essential data for every horse in the UK, including basic identification details like passport, microchip and unique life numbers, as well as voluntary pedigree and competition records. It is hoped the launch will mark a new era in the UK horse world, where buyers and sellers will be able to make use of a trusted source of information about each horse or pony as well as improving the country’s position within the
global breeding community. More than 100 passport issuing organisations have provided the basic data and others have supplied breeding and competition records for certain horses. Each equine record features every passport issued including, if provided, the name of the horse, its age, gender, height, colour, sire and dam.
“Collecting this data from the various different sources on over one million horses has been no easy task, but we’re very proud of what we’ve achieved so far. “With the help of horse and pony owners, the database is going to be a rich mine of information and we’ll soon wonder how we ever managed without it.”
Data has also been provided by over 80 organisations, from Breed Societies to Olympic competition disciplines.
Access to the data on NED is free for a limited launch period and all information is currently available for a donation of £1 to a selection of UK equine charities.
Nick Wallbridge, NED CEO, said:
The site allows you to search for
horses and ponies using a variety of search criteria, check information contained in passports, obtain pedigree information for some horses and ponies, obtain lifetime competition results for some horses and ponies and trace and track ‘favourites’. Yogi Breisner, BEF world class performance manager for eventing, said: “In order to be able to compete with the best in the world it is important that Great Britain continues to develop its equine policies and NED is a great tool to support this”.
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HORSE HEALTH I NEWS 25
Consultancy focus on reproductive behaviour
Laddy Picture: Tim Flach Photography
Injured horse immortalised A ONE-EYED horse rehabilitated by World Horse Welfare has been immortalised in print by awardwinning photographer Tim Flach. The image of ‘Laddy’, a ten year old Welsh cob, is one of a series of portraits featuring in Tim’s new collection ‘Equus’. Tim had visited World Horse Welfare in Snetterton, Norfolk, in May 2007 after contacting the charity to ask about suitable horses he could photograph to symbolise welfare. He said: “The series of shots in which Laddy appears shows how man can affect the horse and the
responsibility we have towards their welfare. “The image is very emotive and raises the question of what happened to Laddy, as well as the important work World Horse Welfare does to look after horses like him.” Laddy, who lost his right eye as a result of an injury, arrived at World Horse Welfare after a call for help from his seriously ill owner who was finding it increasingly difficult to cope. After a period of rehabilitation he spent a term with a local college as an all round riding horse and is now living with borrower Maxine Debenham from Thetford.
A NEW equine consultancy focusing on reproductive behaviour has been launched by Anglia Ruskin University. The Anglia Equine Consultancy aims to help those involved in horse breeding apply the latest research to reproductive behaviour management and has been opened following over 16 years of research by Dr Mark Kennedy. He has specialised in looking into the effect of accepted and novel breeding management practices on the behaviour, welfare and reproductive efficiency of the horse. There has been a lot of research conducted into the physiology of reproduction and its veterinary management, but little consideration of the effect of manipulation of behaviour on reproductive efficiency and welfare; resulting in the focus of his research. The services offered by the consultancy include a problem-solving service to investigate specified problems, and a breeding management assessment service which aims to help breeders avoid problems arising in the future. As part of the establishment of the consultancy, Dr Kennedy was seconded to two of the most notable studs in the Thoroughbred sector, gaining direct experience of the management of horses during the breeding season. This has enabled him to underpin his scientific knowledge with practical experience, helping horse breeders to get the best out of their horses and their breeding businesses.
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A visitor being assessed on the mechanical horse
Enthusiastic response to show THE UK’s first ever Holistic Horse Show received an enthusiastic response from the industry with three busy days of events at Towerlands in Essex. Dani Paizis, event director, said: “We have been bowled over by the reaction we received. “Although we are very aware of the ever-growing hunger of the UK’s horse lovers to discover more about holistic care and management, the eagerness and excitement of our visitors every day was even greater than we had anticipated.” The show aimed to showcase a variety of physical and spiritual therapies, behaviour training and holistic products. Visitors were able to watch presentations on subjects ranging from saddle fitting to equine
dentistry and demonstrations from experts including international dressage rider Lucinda McAlpine, champion western rider David Deptford and equine biomechanist Gillian Higgins. Tim Warren, director of show sponsor, Simple System, said: “The show’s visitors were receptive and focussed people who were keen to learn more about the many rewards that an holistic approach to horses can bring. “In its first year the show has already done so much for the equestrian holistic industry – giving us the opportunity to work strongly as a collective body for the good of the horse.” Plans for next year’s show are already underway and it will again be held on 23, 24 and 25 October at Unex Towerlands in Essex.
Simon Hadingham and Howard Cooper
Farriery student Simon submits best portfolio By Louise Cordell A FARRIERY student from Warwickshire College has won a top award for submitting the best NVQ portfolio in the country. Simon Hadingham received his award at the Worshipful Company of Farriers Diploma ceremony in London, along with all the other students who achieved their diplomas. The students’ portfolios were inspected and judged by Farriery Training Association external verifiers who decided which candidate should receive the award. Warwickshire College equine department lecturer Richard Bacon said: “It is recognition of the tutors and apprentice farriers.
“I think the shield is a source of pride for the tutors and their award for overseeing the high level of work and this continues the farriers’ tradition of excellence at the college.” Simon, who is now combining working for himself with working for John Blake DWCF, came to farriery as a second career and said: “The award was a surprise because I didn’t do it to go in for the prize, I wanted to have something that I could refer to and look things up in. “I was in agriculture before, but I wanted to keep working with animals – my new career is brilliant and I am pleased I made the decision to get away.”
Consultation launched on ID rule changes A CONSULTATION has been launched on changes to England’s horse identification rules. The main requirement for the new legislation is the compulsory microchipping of foals born after July 1 2009. Under the current legislation, all equines are required to have identification, however the new regulation aims to improve this method by linking each ID issued to an electronic microchip implanted into the animal. A Defra spokesman said: “Linking the microchip and ID, which are both recorded as unique life numbers on the National Equine Database, will reduce risks to human health by stopping certain animals entering the food chain, help disease surveillance and aid recovery of lost or stolen horses.” Passports issued before 1 July 2009
under the existing rules will remain valid so a new passport and microchipping will be not be required when the new rules are introduced. However, once the new rules are in place, failure to correctly identify animals could lead to a fine of up to £5,000. Foals born after 30 June 2009 will have to have a passport and microchip by 31 December in the year in which they are born or 6 months after birth, whichever is the latest. Animals born before 1 July 2009 which, at that date, do not have a passport under the existing rules will have to have a passport and microchip by 31 December 2009. Everyone involved in the equine industry now has until 10 February to comment on any of the proposals, which are available at www.defra.gov.uk.
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HORSE HEALTH I NEWS 27
West Nile Virus vaccine set to be licensed By Louise Cordell THE first West Nile Virus vaccine is set to be licensed through the European Medicines Agency by the end of the year. The inactivated whole virus vaccine, from Fort Dodge Animal Health, is the first developed to protect horses against this potentially deadly disease. This news also comes as the Italian National Reference Centre for Exotic Diseases, has confirmed an outbreak of WNV among horses in stables in the northern province of Ferrara, with about 20 horses believed to have been affected. The vaccine was used in the United States at the height of the 2002 WNV outbreak which affected 15,000 horses and has been credited with contributing to the 70 per cent decline since then.
Helen Barnes, Fort Dodge EMEA equine business manager, said: “Until now, horse owners in Europe have perhaps believed WNV is not a disease they should be concerned with but the outbreak in Ferrara came out of the blue, and at a time when a human case of WNV was also reported in the same province. “This situation is identical to that seen in the outbreaks in the United States and is a stark reminder of the challenge this disease poses, particularly as environmental factors, such as global warming and heavy rains threaten to create mass breeding grounds for mosquitoes.” Fort Dodge will now be working in partnership with the European governments, the EU Commission and the veterinary community across Europe to help build knowledge and understanding of the emerging threat.
Trapped pony is saved A NEW Forest pony has been saved thanks to the partnership between Hampshire Fire and Rescue Service, the RSPCA and local vets. HFRS control room operators received a report of a pony trapped in wiring at Keyhaven Marshes and rescuers arrived to find the yearling pony trapped by its hind legs in stock fencing and barbed wire. The incident occurred in brambles, down a slope and the pony may have been there some time before being spotted by a passing dog walker. Watch manager Jim Green said: “We believe the pony had been trapped for some time and it was important to release it as quickly as possible but the location prevented crews from working
New BALANCE products for happier, healthier horses (and ponies too!)
ACROSS the full range of Balance saddles you will find trees that are sympathetic to the contours of the healthy, well muscled bodies of horses when in movement. Panel construction and gullet widths are designed to provide good support and protection and a choice of tree type, tree widths, seat length and styles cater to all breeds of horse and all levels of rider. Balance saddles are sold with a simple
layered padding system to accommodate changes in posture, weight and development and also make it possible for one saddle to work on a variety of horses. Horses all around the world have been benefiting from the Balance approach to saddling for nearly 20 years and the Balance office is well used to receiving letters from grateful owners who have seen their horses recover their soundness, good movement and enthusiasm for work once they have
moved into a Balance saddle. Traditionally, ponies have had a tough time when it comes to having a comfortable saddle. Understandably, the saddle industry have been reluctant to invest much time and effort into small saddles because although they take as much time and almost as many materials as an adult sized saddle to make, parents are often reluctant to spend the same amount of money on a 13 hand pony that their child is likely to outgrow. The synthetic saddle manufacturers created the potential for improvements, but the plastic trees that have been available for the synthetic market have also tended to fall well short of what ponies actually need in terms of their shape and width. The good news is that at last, the Balance organisation is now able to provide ponies with the same level of comfort and support for balanced and bio-mechanically correct movement, as it has been doing for many years for horses. The new Balance Pony Saddle is a hybrid leather/synthetic mix and built on an injection moulded tree, which has been modified to provide pony friendly widths whilst maintaining a comfortable width and balanced sitting position for the child rider.
safely around the animal. A fundamental control measure in these cases is chemical restraint in the form of sedation or sometimes full anaesthesia.” Peter Tunney, an equine vet from Seadown Vets, was quickly on scene and after being equipped with safety line and helmet, gave the pony sufficient sedative to enable a safe rescue with no further trauma to the pony. Jim added: “Once released from the fence and assessed by the vet, firefighters made the pony comfortable allowing it to come round from the sedative. The pony’s owner arrived and took it back to the farm where it is expected to make a full recovery.” Advertiser’s Announcement
Trials of this saddle have already shown the same kinds of improvements to movement, soundness and performance as are commonly reported by horse owners who have made the choice to switch from conventionally fitted saddles into the Balance Saddling System. This month is the 10th anniversary year for Balance in the USA where it formed Equi-Librium Inc and 2009 looks like being another very busy year, with the creation of a growing network of test ride facilitators around the world; the launch of new products like the Pony Saddle, the Horizon Saddle for extremely wide horses and the new lambskin saddle pads; the launch of a new website with an online shop and the presentation of more saddling seminars for professionals in the horse industry (including vets and therapists) who are interested in looking beyond the limitations and flaws found in most conventional saddle fitting practices in order to offer better preventative health support through making use of the Balance approach to saddle design and ‘fit’. For more information about this and all other Balance products, please visit our website www.BALANCEinternational.com
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Don’t place a burden on the horse By Dr Scott Gravlee, DVM, MS, CNS, Equine Nutrition Consultant, Life Data Lab FOR thousands of years wild horses flourished on their home ranges. The only items needed for survival were water, minerals, salt and grass. The ability of the digestive system to efficiently convert cellulose and fibre to energy provided the calories they needed to forage and to escape from predators. The lifestyle and demand on modern horses is much different than the demands placed on wild horses; therefore supplementation of hay and pasture is necessary in order to meet the daily nutrient requirements of the modern horse. A myriad of feed stuffs and supplements have been developed and marketed in reaction to these changing needs. Studies show that most horses with hoof problems respond to the supplementation of a balance of nutrients important for strong connective tissue growth, such as phospholipids, omega fatty acids, and amino acid ‘protein building blocks’. A ‘biotin only’ supplement is usually
ineffective. While proper supplementation can provide numerous benefits, excessive supplementation of any nutrient, even if the nutrient is non toxic, requires metabolic and organ functions in order to eliminate the nutrient from the body. This is a waste of valuable resources whether it is in the form of enzyme activity, energy, or organ usage such as the kidneys. Just as the calcium to phosphorus ratio is important, so are numerous other ratios. Over supplementation in addition to improper ratios of nutrients are common problems facing our equine companions. For example, most hoof supplements contain organic sulfur in the form of the essential amino acids methionine and cystine. These hoof supplements can be given with joint supplements such as glucosamine, hyaluronic acid, chondroitin sulfate and avocado extracts. However, if the joint supplement also contains MSM it could interfere with the effectiveness of the hoof supplement. MSM contains sulfur, and when
The goal of supplementation is improved hoof quality given in addition to supplements or feeds containing methionine, sulfur can reach tissue levels that interfere with the strength of connective tissue. Over supplementation of sulfur can also interfere with other nutrients such as copper.
improved hoof quality, and a glossy hair coat. Internal benefits are harder to see, but just as dramatic. As an added benefit, with good nutrition the horse is often calmer and more manageable.
Similar problems with numerous other nutrients can occur when multiple supplements are given together.
The key is providing nutrients in the correct ratio and amounts without unknowingly placing a burden on the horse with over supplementation.
A balanced diet should provide building blocks for tissue, organ health, and optimal performance. Supplementing with the goal of providing a balanced diet usually leads to healthier bones and joints,
Giving a balanced supplement backed by research and years of proven effectiveness and avoiding other supplements with duplicate nutrients can lead to a healthier and happier horse.
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HORSE HEALTH I 29
David Nicholls of Total Foot Protection Ltd, reviews some of the products available to farriers, and looks at the issues which led to their development.
Shoe developed to reduce force of leverage ... THE Performance Leverage Reduction Shoe, was developed as a means of reducing the force of leverage on the hoof wall. Information gained from MRI studies revealed strain or lesions on the DDFT and the collateral ligaments of the coffin joint. Thought to be the result of the demands of increased schooling, and turning in tight circles, the connective tissues and joints of the equine lower limb, particularly the coffin joint, become stressed. Reducing leverage to the joint by bringing the breakover point of a shoe closer to the tip of P3 (the pedal bone), has proved extremely beneficial. Extending this approach around the sides of the shoe enables the horse to turn more easily, significantly reducing collateral ligament damage. Manufactured from heat treated forged, aluminium alloy, the shoes are lightweight and durable, bringing relief as a remedial shoe, not only from lameness issues, but also laminitis, where less force on the connection between P3 (the pedal bone) and the hoof wall would benefit internal healing.
EDSS/Dr Steward clog
The more traditionally forged steel, Centre Fit shoe has been designed to assist in the correct alignment of the distal limb/hoof pastern axis, and place the shoe evenly around the DIP/coffin joint. Following the trimming protocol and placement of the shoe with respect to the widest part of the foot, in turn place breakover in the optimal position for performance, and long term soundness. These shoes also have a similar ground profile as the Leverage Reduction shoes allowing for easier turning and sideways movement. Another popular laminitis option is the EDSS / Dr Steward Clog. Developed by American veterinary surgeon Dr John Steward, these evolved from his experience in treating a sports horse that had foundered, and the distal phalanx had prolapsed through the sole. The owner had limited resources so he stabilised the foot as he would a fracture. He filled the bottom of the foot with Impression Material and cut a piece of plywood, a little larger than the foot, which he then attached, using
wood screws. The horse was discharged with pain killers, and despite a poor prognosis, recovered. Dr. Steward refined the wood plate, adding a rocker around the whole ground surface, allowing for leverage reduction across the whole plate. Dr Steward increased the thickness of the wood blocks and cut a depression into the foot surface directly beneath the tip of P3. Thus the shape and form changed and the clog was born. The EDSS/Dr Steward clog today is made from a light, durable urethane that can be nailed, screwed or glued onto the equine foot.
The Performance Leverage Reduction Shoe
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The effects of a wet-dry cycle on the equine hoof By John Irving of Keratex Hoofcare THE old adage ‘no foot, no horse’ really does apply in our unpredictable climate, which can trap hooves in a wet-dry-wet-dry cycle of rapid saturation and drying. This can weaken hoof horn over time and make horses prone to cracked or soft hooves, thrown shoes, unsoundness and/or discomfort during work. Horse hooves become compromised when the moisture content does not remain reasonably constant. In any consistent climate, a horse can adapt well over time. However, frequent changes in the weather will adversely affect the internal structure of the hooves, which never have the chance to become ‘acclimatised’.
In wet conditions the inner hoof structure swells and softens.
In wet conditions such as a waterlogged field or rainy spell, the internal hoof structure swells and softens as it absorbs excess water molecules. This is because the essential molecular links which hold the keratin of the horn together have weakened. In subsequent dry conditions such as stabling or a spell of hot/dry weather, the internal hoof structure contracts and shrinks as the water evaporates. The faster the hooves have to react in this way, the worse the damage, meaning that a changeable climate such as the UK plays havoc with horses’ hooves. As hoof horn expands and contracts in varying conditions, the molecular structure weakens and cracks will appear. As the process continues, the hoof will become more porous over time, becoming saturated extremely quickly and drying out rapidly. This leaves empty spaces – ‘vacuoles’ – inside the hoof horn, which can act as nuclei for cracks and splits to form. It will make a horse prone to losing shoes as the nails cannot be held in tightly and the soles may become soft and susceptible to punctures, abscesses and sensitivity. Clearly the affects of a wet-dry cycle can be very damaging but it is possible to prevent the hooves from becoming affected with the right protective measures. In preventing the effects of a wet-dry cycle remember that the hoof horn is already classed as ‘dead tissue’ and therefore some complex chemical
If the nails cannot be held tightly the horse will lose shoes. engineering is required to waterproof it and strengthen it internally by cross-linking the keratin of the hoof wall – rather like adding rungs to a ladder. The best way to protect the horn against a wet-dry cycle is a twopronged affair. Firstly, excess water must be prevented from entering the horn structure and secondly, weak horn must be strengthened without becoming brittle. Applying a strongly water-repellent but porous topical treatment on the outer surface of the hoof wall and sole is a good way of achieving this. Using a hoof hardener will add crosslinking bonds to the keratin, reinforcing the natural sulphur links that hold the hoof together, therefore strengthening and hardening the horn. Unlike hoof oils, which can prevent the horn from breathing – that is, maintaining the correct moisture level by allowing water vapour to pass through the hoof wall – an effective hoof hardener will combine the addition of intermolecular bonds with a plasticiser, therefore engineering flexibility as well as strength. Formaldehyde or keratin is well known to have a simple intermolecular cross-linking action. However, formaldehyde alone would simply case-harden the hoof, preventing the entry of formaldehyde to deeper layers and creating surface brittleness. Therefore, an effective hoof hardener should contain modified formaldehyde, which slows the reaction of the CHO group, giving the aldehyde time to penetrate the outer layers of horn, and a plasticiser to prevent brittleness and retain flexibility.
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HORSE HEALTH I 31
New boot Authorities report glanders case provides cold therapy BRAZILIAN veterinary authorities have reported the country’s first case of glanders in over 40 years – sparking a UK-wide search for imported horses.
A NEW boot that provides compression and cold therapy treatment is now being distributed by FMBs and Magnet Medics. The Cool+Press boots use cold and intermittent compression to reduce heat swelling and pain.
The disease has been detected in the Sao Paulo region of Brazil and records show that since April five horses have been imported into the UK from this area.
As a result of the low, but not negligible, risk to UK horses, DEFRA
are now in the process of locating, isolating and re-testing these animals, as a precautionary measure.
While widespread in the UK in the nineteenth century, it was completely eradicated here in 1928, however it still exists in parts of Europe, Asia and North Africa.
The department is also working with the European Commission to ensure that any future importations of horses from Brazil continue to fully comply with EU standards.
Equine veterinary surgeons and horse owners are now being urged to familiarise themselves with the clinical signs of the disease, and report any suspected cases to their local animal health office, especially in horses which may have come from South America.
Glanders is a serious bacterial disease of the respiratory tract and skin, which mainly affects equids.
They are made of neoprene and have twin air bags on both the lower and upper parts of the boot.
Call to end ‘discrimination’
Firstly air is pumped into the lower pads and then into the upper pads, through hoses linked to the surcingle.
THE British Horse Society has called for an end to ‘equine discrimination’ in the New Forest.
This helps to draw off and disperse upwards any excess fluid that has gathered in the leg and the amount of pressure can be regulated in three different intensities.
The organisation has released its response to proposals which would result in controversial development control restrictions on equestrian activity in the area.
Clinical studies have shown that post-traumatic and post-operative cooling therapies can be highly beneficial, particularly in the treatment of musculoskeletal strain, muscle pain and inflammation of tendon injuries and joints.
The proposals, from the New Forest Park’s Draft Recreation Management Strategy and the New Forest Park Plan Consultation Draft, would mean horse owners having to obtain planning permission for certain types of horse keeping.
DNA
Arenas
Bedding
Clipping
The New Forest authorities have claimed that the move is necessary due to ongoing erosion of the landscape and the natural habitat of local wildlife.
against the need to preserve and enhance the landscape character of the New Forest.
However the BHS does not accept that horse riding causes any more localised erosion or damage than cycling or walking – activities that are not restricted under the proposal.
“Five per cent of households within the New Forest identify horse riding as their main activity, providing them with a healthy form of exercise on their doorstep and reducing the need to go further afield to find an alternative exercise opportunity.”
Mark Weston, BHS director of access safety and welfare, said: “The equine industry is a £4bn industry and any development control policies need to balance the needs of this industry
The organisation is now calling for less restrictive policies that would not discriminate against equestrians, while still supporting the preservation of the forest.
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