Key Aspect Details Prevalence Up to 90% in performance horses; 11-30% in pleasure horses. Risk Factors Exercise, diet, stress, NSAID use, feeding frequency, and stable management. Symptoms Poor appetite, dullness, behavioral changes, decreased performance, mild weight loss, low-grade colic. Diagnosis Gastroscopy is the gold standard; also based on clinical signs and response to treatment. Treatment Proton pump inhibitors like omeprazole; adjunctive medications like H2 blockers and sucralfate. Prevention Frequent forage access, reduce fasting, limit concentrates, minimize stress, judicious NSAID use. Veterinary Consultation Necessary for persistent symptoms; gastroscopy for accurate diagnosis. Understanding Equine Ulcers: From Symptoms to SolutionsEquine gastric ulcers are a common ailment among horses that can significantly affect their health and performance. These painful sores in the stomach lining have a high prevalence in race and performance horses, affecting up to 90% of these equine athletes. In contrast, sedentary pleasure horses exhibit a lower rate of around 1130% depending on various factors. Understanding the nature of equine ulcers, recognizing the symptoms, and providing effective solutions are crucial for every horse rider, trainer, and owner. In this comprehensive guide, we'll explore every aspect of this condition, providing actionable insights for prevention and management.Quick Facts: Equine Ulcers at a GlanceHigh prevalence in racehorses and high-performance athletes.Silent yet deadly: Many horses show no obvious signs until the disease is advanced.Effective, evidence-based treatment options and management practices exist.The Physiology of Equine UlcersThe equine stomach comprises two main regions: the squamous (upper) mucosa and the glandular (lower) mucosa. A staggering 80% of ulcers occur in the squamous region, which is less equipped to withstand stomach acid. Ulcers form when aggressive factors like hydrochloric acid and bile outweigh protective mechanisms such as mucus and adequate blood flow. Understanding this physiology is key to both treating and preventing ulcers effectively.Prevalence and Risk FactorsUlcer prevalence varies by age, use, and management. Performance horses like Thoroughbreds can see a spike from 37% to 80100% within just a few months of intensive training. Meanwhile, non-competing horses face much lower risks. Stable management, diet, and stress levels all play critical roles in susceptibility.Who is at Higher Risk?Performance horses are at heightened risk due to frequent exercise and intermittent feeding. Management stressors such as stall confinement, transport, or changes in social grouping also increase the likelihood of ulcers. Diets low in forage and high in concentrates can encourage gastric acidity, and chronic use of NSAIDs may impair protective mucus layers, further predisposing horses to glandular ulcers.Foals and weanlings face unique risks with severe symptoms often manifesting suddenly. Ensuring a balanced feeding structure with the right equestrian supplements can mitigate some risk factors.Common Signs to Watch ForSigns of ulcers can be subtle and include poor appetite, dullness, behavioral changes, decreased performance, mild weight loss, and low-grade colic. These symptoms can easily be mistaken for other conditions, highlighting the importance of early intervention.Gastroscopy: The Diagnostic Gold StandardFor diagnosing equine ulcers, gastroscopy remains the gold standard. This endoscopic examination allows veterinarians to visualize and grade ulcers, ensuring a targeted treatment plan. In cases where gastroscopy isn't feasible, clinicians rely on clinical signs and response to treatment to make informed decisions. As many horses are asymptomatic, regular screening of high-risk athletes or performance-challenged horses is advised.Equestrian gloves can provide better grip for veterinarians during these procedures, benefiting both the vet and the horse.Effective Treatment OptionsProton Pump Inhibitors: The First Line of DefenseProton pump inhibitors (PPIs) like omeprazole are the cornerstone treatment for healing equine ulcers. Administering these medications at appropriate doses for a duration of 28 days or more has shown significant success in healing squamous ulcers. However, glandular ulcers may require longer courses and adjunctive therapies. It's essential to use clinically proven formulations as substandard omeprazole products have led to treatment failures.Adjunctive MedicationsOther medications like H2 blockers, sucralfate, and antacids can be used alongside PPIs, although PPIs remain the most effective option. Always consult with a veterinarian for tailored treatment plans that suit specific needs.Managing and Preventing Equine UlcersProper management is essential for both treating and preventing equine ulcers. Here are some practical, evidence-based steps you can take to keep your hoofed friends healthy:Maximize forage: Offer frequent access to quality hay or grazing to reduce gastric acidity.Minimize fasting: Avoid long gaps between meals to maintain a constant gastric environment.Limit high-concentrate feeds: High-grain diets can increase acid exposure.Reduce stressors: Stable management reducing transport and routine changes can lower ulcer risk.NSAID Use: Adopt judicious use of NSAIDs with veterinarian consultation, and consider gastroprotectants during necessary prolonged NSAID therapy.Consider prophylactic omeprazole for high-risk horses during intense training sessions or competitions.For more ways to ensure your horse's comfort, consider using stable rugs and turnout rugs to shield them from harsh weather conditions.When to Call the VetIf you notice persistent poor appetite, weight loss, repeated low-grade colic, or severe girthiness, it's time to consult your vet. These symptoms could indicate underlying gastric ulcers requiring immediate attention and gastroscopy for accurate diagnosis.Conclusion: Taking Proactive StepsEquine ulcers are a significant concern that can affect a horse's performance and well-being. However, by understanding the physiology, recognizing the symptoms, and adopting effective treatment and management practices, owners can significantly mitigate these risks. Keep an eye on your equine companion's behavior and consult a veterinarian if you suspect any issues. Embrace evidence-based equestrian supplements and proactive management to ensure a healthy and happy horse.Visit Just Horse Riders to explore a range of horse riding equipment and supplements tailored to support your equestrian needs. Whether you are in need of horse riding boots or looking to add some treats and gifts to your cart, we are here to enhance your riding journey.```html```

Topic Details Box Rest Challenges Necessary for recovery from injuries but can lead to boredom and stress, causing behaviors like weaving or crib-biting. Reasons for Boredom Limited movement compared to natural roaming habits; increased risk of ulcers and colic. Impact of Boredom Leads to stereotypies; 20-30% of stabled horses exhibit repetitive behaviors. Strategies to Combat Boredom Mimicking natural foraging Introducing toys and treats Changing the scenery Encouraging social interactions Incorporating exercise and stretching Importance of Hydration Maintaining hydration is crucial during box rest to prevent colic and ensure hoof health. Troubleshooting Water Issues Check water flow, insulate pipes, use backup buckets, and consider electrolytes if necessary. Final Thoughts Proper management can make box rest less stressful, enhancing horse's well-being with slow feeders, toys, and consistent water supply. Box rest is often a necessary evil for horses recovering from injuries like laminitis or tendon issues. While crucial for healing, it stifles a horse's natural instincts to roam and graze, leading to boredom and stress which can manifest in undesirable behaviors. Have you ever caught your loyal steed weaving or crib-biting? Youre not alone! Why Horses Experience Boredom During Box Rest Just like humans dread monotonous routines, horses on box rest become bored. Unlike their natural habitat where they might travel 5 miles a day, stables can feel confining. This limited movement heightens stress and diminishes their health, potentially leading to conditions like ulcers or colic. In fact, studies indicate a threefold increase in colic risk during stall rest. The Cost of Boredom The social, intelligent nature of horses means they require mental stimulation. Deprived of this, stereotypiesa kind of repetitive behaviorcan develop. Imagine having an itch you just can't scratch! It's noted that 20-30% of stabled horses exhibit these behaviors, a reflection of their plight. Older horses face higher stress levels due to reduced coping mechanisms. Even those who consume free-choice forageover 15 lbs dailycan experience the negative impacts of boredom. Strategies to Combat Horse Boredom 1. Mimicking Natural Foraging Behaviors Equip your stable with multiple forage options by placing hay in various locations. This makes feeding more excitinga treasure hunt for your horse! 2. Introducing Toys and Treats Especially for younger horses, toys linked with food provide much-needed mental stimulation. Consider treat-dispensing balls or hanging a capless plastic jug on a rope! 3. Change the Scenery Breaking up monotony is key. Simply moving your horse to a different stable or allowing supervised time in the yard can make a significant difference. 4. Encourage Social Interactions Placing your horse next to its buddy can lower stress. A fenced companionship provides interaction without direct contact. This can reduce weaving behaviors by 30-50%. 5. Exercise and Stretching If approved by your vet, incorporate daily hand-walking and stretching. This maintains muscle tone and provides limited exercise while reducing reinjury risks. Handling Automatic Water Drinker Issues Importance of Hydration Its crucial to maintain hydration during box rest. Dehydration can thicken intestinal contents and elevate the risk of colic threefold. Hooves and hydration go hand in hand. Troubleshooting Water Issues Automatic drinkers may malfunction, particularly in colder months. Heres your checklist: Inspect the water flow several times daily. Insulate pipes to prevent freezing. Consider backup buckets as a workaround. If water intake reduces, add electrolytesbut consult your vet. Final Thoughts on Managing Box Rest When managed correctly, box rest doesnt need to be stressful. By incorporating slow feeders, toys, social changes, and consistent water supply, your horse stands to benefit. Perhaps its also time to explore some equine supplements to support health during recovery. Take a small step today, perhaps a new stable rug or a fly protection item, and watch as your horse begins to thrive once more. Boredom busting isnt an extravaganceits an essential investment in the well-being of your cherished companion!```html```

Equine nutritionists and veterinarians currently use the selenium requirements for horses as a guideline for mules. | Getty ImagesQ: Are mules extra sensitive to selenium? Does too much selenium cause hoof problems? What are the symptoms of excess selenium?A: Mules, which are a cross between a female horse and a male donkey, might have different nutritional requirements than horses because donkeys are extremely efficient at utilizing nutrients. However, very little research exists on the specific nutrient requirements of donkeys or mules. Because of this lack of data, equine professionals currently rely on established horse requirements when formulating diets for mules.The Role of Selenium in Equid DietsSelenium is an essential micromineral, meaning equids must obtain it through the diet. It plays several critical roles in the body, including supporting immune function and thyroid hormone regulation, and it acts as an important antioxidant.Both selenium deficiency and toxicity can be problematic. Clinical signs of deficiency can include weakness, impaired movement, respiratory disease, difficulty swallowing, and impaired cardiac function. While deficiency is relatively common in horses, depending on geographic region, cases of selenium toxicity have also been reported.Acute selenium toxicity often causes abdominal pain, colic, apparent blindness, excessive sweating, lethargy, and increased heart and respiratory rates. Chronic selenium toxicity more commonly leads to hair loss and hoof changes, including alopecia and cracking around the coronary band.Selenium Requirements for MulesThe true selenium requirement in mules remains unclear. Authors of the Nutrient Requirements of Horses (NRC, 2007) recommend 0.1 milligrams of selenium per kilogram of dry matter intake to prevent classical deficiency symptoms in horses. Selenium intake can vary widely by region because soil selenium levels shape the selenium content of the local forages. Also, akaline soils tend to produce plants that accumulate more selenium.If you are concerned about your mules selenium intake or suspect toxicity, consult a qualified equine nutritionist. A nutritionist can evaluate all components of the diet, including forage, pasture, concentrates, and supplements, to estimate total daily selenium intake. Then they can compare this measurement with NRC guidelines to ensure intake meets but does not significantly exceed recommended levels.Because health concerns are involved, also consult your veterinarian. A veterinarian might recommend blood tests to assess plasma selenium concentrations and help rule out other causes of hoof abnormalities, because hoof health issues can have multiple underlying factors.Take-Home MessageAlthough equine nutritionists have limited scientific data available on donkey and mule nutrition, they often consider these animals metabolically efficient. Because the NRC does not provide selenium requirements for donkeys or mules, professionals currently use horse recommendations as a guideline. Working with both a veterinarian and a qualified nutritionist can help prevent excessive selenium intake, which has been linked to hoof issues such as cracking at the coronary band.Do you have an equine nutrition question? Do you have an equine nutrition question? The Horses editors want to hear from you! Submit your question via the form below. Name(Required) First Last Email(Required) Submit your equine nutrition question below!(Required)CAPTCHA

New research insights on equine spinal conditions help veterinarians extend horses soundness and longevityMany problems can develop in the horses neck and spine, leading to a wide variety of clinical signs, and different diagnostic and management challenges make issues trickier. | iStockStretching from skull to tail, the horses vertebral column contains 51 to 57 vertebrae that shape movement, balance, and performance. Each of the spines cervical, thoracic, lumbar, sacral, and coccygeal regions can develop its own specifi c disease processes involving bones, ligaments, muscles, cartilage, and/or nerves, creating a wide array of clinical signs that can make diagnoses challenging, says Sue Dyson, MA, VetMB, PhD, DEO, former head of clinical orthopedics at the Animal Health Trust Centre for Equine Studies, in Newmarket, England.Weve got this huge spectrum of problems, and different areas that can get damaged, which result in a wide variety of clinical signs related to eachobviously with different diagnostic and management challenges, she says.Fortunately, researchers continue to uncover better ways to diagnose, treat, and prevent such problems, says Kevin Haussler, DVM, DC, PhD, Dipl. ACVSMR, associate professor at Lincoln Memorial University, in Harrogate, Tennessee. There has been a lot of progress in spinal-related issues lately, so its an exciting time, he says.Neck and Spine Problems: An OverviewSpinal issues in horses include bony changessuch as remodeling (changes in size and shape), arthritis, misalignment, and fracturesand soft tissue injuries affecting muscles and ligaments, Dyson says. Nerve compression can also occur, causing lameness, weakness, stumbling, or difficulty bearing weight.Conditions arise from damage to the spinal cord, and the signs vary depending on the location of that damage. In the cervical region, for example, horses might develop intervertebral disc disease or damage the nuchal ligamentwhich anchors at the back of the skull, then runs down the neck and attaches along the bones of the neck and into the withersand its bursae, which are fluid-filled cushions that sit between the ligament and the bones it rubs against. The withers serve as a key transition point between the neck and back and can suffer fractures from trauma.Further back, in the thoracic and lumbar regions, two or more spinous processes can touch or override one another, forming impinging dorsal spinous processes (IDSPs), while arthritis might affect the articular process joints. Additionally, spondylosisnew bone on the underside of the bonescan occur in the vertebral bodies. The lumbosacral area experiences major spinal flexion, mediated by large muscles under the spine, putting it at heightened injury risk. The junction between the spine and the ilial wings, called the sacroiliac joints, presents another completely different set of problems, Dyson says.As for tails, our sources say they can incur fractures, soft tissue injuries, and neurologic problems. But their pathologies (disease or damage) remain largely understudied.The Latest in ImagingRadiographs (X rays) still serve as a great starting point for viewing spinal bones in 2D, Dyson says. But in the past decade computed tomography (CT) has advanced to provide 3D images of the entire neck and upper thoracic spine.Haussler says CT scanners with larger gantries now allow anesthetized horses to undergo 3D imaging of the lumbosacral region. In his early necropsy work on Thoroughbreds, he showed that osteophytes can pinch nerves around the lumbosacral junction, leading to chronic hind-limb lameness.At Ocala Equine Hospital, in Florida, Natasha Werpy, DVM, Dipl. ACVR, and her colleagues have been developing dynamic CT, capturing images of the neck in motionflexed, extended, turning, and everything between.One of my ongoing concerns is that we take radiographs of standing horses without seeing if those joints can actually move, Haussler says. Theres just so much going on from a spinal pain and dysfunction perspective that you cant appreciate otherwise.New endoscopic tools allow veterinarians to see the intervertebral foramenthanks to innovations led by Jan-Hein Swagemakers, DVM, at Tierklinik Lsche, in Germany.Ultrasound is also improving, Haussler says. Techniques developed by Cooper Williams, VMD, Dipl. ACVSMR, in Maryland, and Philippe Benoit, DVM, in Cardiff-by-the-Sea, California, and France, reveal previously unseen soft tissue changes in the poll and upper neck.Theres a lot going on in this arealots of movement, the nuchal ligament, strong tendons attaching there, in a region that sometimes gets really flexed during training, putting lots of stress on soft tissues, Haussler says. Once you start looking in earnest, you find all kinds of soft tissue, neurologic, and bony changes.Bone scansnuclear scintigraphycan highlight active lesions, but the 3D versionposition emission tomography (PET)is still limited by scanners too small for the equine spine, Dyson says. Even so, interpreting results can be tricky, she explains. Studies show scintigraphy often flags more activity in the lower neck than the upper, but that doesnt necessarily equate with pain, she says. There is greater motion and more modeling changes in that area.Enhancing the Gold Standard: The Clinical ExamIndeed, for all its value, diagnostic imaging can still reveal issues that dont bother the horse, Dyson says. If you were to X ray 100 healthy horses, probably 80 of them would have close spinous processes, she explains. So its really important to correlate imaging with clinical signs.Hence, the clinical exam remains her gold standard. Not enough people do a thorough systematic examination with every horse, so they are not sufficiently aware of what is normal and what is abnormal, she says.She begins by observing muscle development, looking for anything abnormal or asymmetrical. She also palpates both sides, checks range of motion, assesses movement in hand and under saddle, and examines the limbs to rule out problems in the legs.Haussler recommends applying tail traction to check for neurologic problems, and gently pulling the tail backward to assess and treat back pain, based on recent Finnish research. The tail can tell us a lot, and it gives us a window into the nervous system, he says.In recent years practitioners have focused more closely on horses behavioral reactions to physical examsespecially the body language and facial expressions of pain. Its like the horse is screaming at us about where the problem lies, Haussler says. We need to listen.The Holistic ApproachAnother new trend consists of looking at the whole horse, rather than zeroing in on specific problem areas, our sources say.The axial skeleton both influences and responds to problems elsewhere in the body, Haussler explains. Its like when people have a sprained ankle, he says. They carry themselves differently, and they can get back pain. Around 75% of horses with back problems also show lameness, and about 25% of lame horses have back issues, he says.Plus, as prey animals, horses compensate to mask pain, Dyson says. They react to lameness by reducing the range of motion of the back when theyre in motionand that then leads to loss of muscle and muscle tone, she explains. While that might appear to be a primary back issue, the main problem might actually be lameness.Impinging dorsal spinous processes can be a particular red herring, she adds. A horse with kissing spines, as theyre colloquially called, on X ray might have poor hind-limb propulsion for a totally different reason, such as bilateral proximal suspensory desmopathy (a painful ligament injury at the top of both hind cannon bones), without any clinical relevance for the kissing spines. I need to be having an open mind about the underlying problemor problems, she says.Hausslers group is also exploring how neck pain relates to wider issues across the body. Neck pain or stiffness can influence everything from how a horse uses her back to how she places her feet, potentially triggering lameness, gait irregularities, or even behavioral resistance under saddle, he says.Treatment AdvancesEquine surgeons have been making vertebral repairs for decades, but new techniques deliver better results with less invasive fixation, greater precision, and fewer complications, Haussler says.Researchers at Colorado State University (CSU), in Fort Collins, and Grosbois Equine Veterinary Clinic, in France, are refining surgical approaches for Wobbler syndrome, using custom 3D-printed spacers and bone plates that reduce spinal cord pressure more effectively than earlier basket implants. In 2023 Swagemakers applied his foramen arthroscopy to perform foraminotomiesremoving excess bone from the spinal canalin horses with mild forelimb lameness, with full recovery, and has successfully conducted many more of the procedures. And in 2025, surgeons at the University of Bern, in Switzerland, used computer assistance, CT guidance, and lag screws to repair a neck fracture in a fallen dressage gelding, and he returned to full performance within a year.In cases of IDSP with confirmed clinical significance, surgeons traditionally removed sections of the impinging spinous processes with horses under general anesthesia. More recently, surgeons often operate on standing sedated horses. Theyve also adopted interspinous ligament desmotomycutting spinal ligamentsas a faster, less invasive option. But if the spinous processes are too close together or overlapping, this is not feasible, Dyson warns.In addition to surgery, or instead of it, many veterinarians still rely on non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), corticosteroid injections, and sometimes extracorporeal shock wave therapy (ESWT) or mesotherapy. This is combined with appropriate rehabilitation exercises to restore appropriate muscle development, strength, and coordination, Dyson says.Research with experimentally induced neck pain models, led by Melinda Story, DVM, PhD, an assistant professor at CSU, have helped refine how and when to use such tools in horses.Meanwhile clinicians are trying bisphosphonates, which are typically used for navicular disease, as a potential treatment in select cases of spinal osteoarthritis and bone pain, Haussler says.For chronic neuropathic pain or central sensitizationwhere the nervous system incorrectly processes painscientists have seen success with gabapentin and cannabidiol (CBD), Haussler says. Acupuncture also appears to regulate pain perception and relax muscles in horses.Getting Down to the GenesSome spinal diseases have hereditary components, and geneticists are working to identify the genes responsible, Haussler says. Carrie Finno, DVM, PhD, Dipl. ACVIM, associate professor at the University of California, Davis, for example, is studying the possible heritability of caudal cervical vertebral anomalies, or equine complex vertebral malformation (ECVM), which is also called C6-C7 malformation.Haussler explains that veterinarians have long recognized ECVM, yet its prevalence might be increasing, possibly due to selective breeding for expressive dressage movement. Yes, these horses can move freely, he says, but from a spinal health perspective, maybe were crossing over a fi ne threshold into making them have significant neurologic compromise.Another condition with potential genetic roots is IDSP (again, kissing spines) in Thoroughbreds, Dyson says. Some breeding programs have reported clusters of related horses with the condition, although not all show clinical signs. The presence or absence of clinical signs may be related to the way in which horses are worked, reflected by muscle development patterns, she explains.Haussler emphasizes that no ones blaming breeders. People dont select these unwanted characteristics on purpose, he says. Were always looking for horses that run faster, jump higher, and generally perform better. Unfortunately, other genes or traits sometimes get dragged along, with unwanted consequences.Breeders already use DNA testing to reduce several genetic diseases unrelated to the spine, and thats the aim here, too. If we can identify the genes related to these diseases, we can begin selective breeding programs, Haussler says.New Training, Discipline, and Equipment InsightsAs research evolves, scientists are paying closer attention to how the horses environment shapes spinal health, Haussler says. Teams in the U.K., U.S., and Netherlands, for example, are investigating how rider posture, rein tension, and the horses head and neck position affect the spine. Rider influences can make a big difference in whether a horse is able to cope with spinal-related issues or not, he says.High head carriage puts extra stress on neck joints, reduces back flexibility, and leads to poor muscle development. | Adobe stock photoHyperflexion remains a popular research topic, Dyson says. Researchers have shown that prolonged rollkurwhich she defines as excessive hyperflexion of the poll with the horses nose at the chest increases pressure at the poll, especially in the atlantoaxial joint and nuchal bursae. This raises concerns about long-term strain on neck ligaments and joints, but clinical problems are relatively unusual, she says. Short periods of riding low, deep, and round (LDR)not rollkurhavent been linked to back or neck problems.High head carriage, on the other handseen with some novice riders aboard and in horses with other pain-related problemsputs extra stress on neck joints, reduces back flexibility, and leads to poor muscle development. This is potentially deleterious, with huge biomechanical consequences, Dyson says. Going with the head in the air is bad.She also notes that equestrian discipline also plays a role. Contrary to common belief, show jumpers can experience more neck problems than dressage horses, as suggested by researchers on recent studies. They extend their necks when landing, Dyson explains. Youve got massive forces being generated. Dressage horses, by contrast, carry their heads lower, which opens up the articular process joints more, so theres less pressure.Another key factor involves saddle fit. Pressure concentrates just behind the withers, where the riders weight and girth tension combine, Haussler says.In exams Dyson says she always checks for muscle wasting behind the withers. An ill-fitting saddle is obviously going to cause problems for the horse, she says.Daily management and horsemanship matter, too. Our sources emphasize the importance of letting horses stretch and lower their necks.They can have the best genes, but horses can still be a mess because of management and other things that are going on, Haussler says.Take-Home MessageThe horses spine can develop problems ranging from mild soft tissue strain to serious neurologic disease. Diagnosing and managing these issues requires a whole-horse approach, careful clinical evaluation, and increasing reliance on advanced imaging and surgical techniques. Continued research into and increased awareness about the equine spines complexity equip practitioners to improve our horses comfort, performance, and longevity.This article is from the Research Roundup 2025 issue ofThe Horse: Your Guide to Equine Health Care. We at The Horse work to provide you with the latest and most reliable news and information on equine health, care, management, and welfare through our magazine and TheHorse.com. Your subscription helps The Horse continue to offer this vital resource to horse owners of all breeds, disciplines, and experience levels. To access current issues included in your subscription, please sign in to theAppleorGoogleapps ORclick herefor the desktop version.

Topic Key Points The Science of Fear Fireworks induce sensory overload, causing "flight-or-fight" response. 50% of dogs experience fireworks-induced fear. Noise phobia affects various animals, including guinea pigs and rabbits. Repeated exposure can lead to lasting phobias or hearing damage. Physical Harm 20% of lost pets disappear after fireworks displays. Farm animals risk fatal injuries during stampedes. Wildlife may abandon nests, resulting in parent exhaustion and starving chicks. Environmental Damage Pollutants from fireworks affect air and water quality. Part of the "One Health" concern impacting humans, animals, and the environment. Experts urge for regulatory measures. Real-World Data Holidays see spikes in fireworks displays, correlating with lost pets and wildlife casualties. Safer Celebrations Provide a quiet, secure environment for pets. Advocate for stricter fireworks regulations. Consider drone or laser shows as alternatives. Schedule events outside of breeding seasons for wildlife safety. The Impact of Fireworks on Animal Health and the Environment: What You Need to Know Fireworks are synonymous with celebration, painting our skies with bursts of color and light. But beneath this spectacle lies a darker reality that affects both animal health and the environment. This article explores the profound effects of fireworks on our furry companions, wildlife, and the planet, urging us to reconsider our celebratory traditions for the sake of all living beings. Why Fireworks Terrify Animals: The Science of Fear Fireworks unleash a cacophony of thunderous explosions paired with startling lights and unfamiliar smells, which can be downright terrifying for animals. This sensory overload triggers the well-documented "flight-or-fight" response. Studies show that up to 50% of dogs exhibit fireworks-induced fear, manifesting as shivering, panting, or howling. [1] The noise phobia isn't limited to dogs; even smaller creatures like guinea pigs and rabbits show significant signs of distress. [2] Repeated exposure to such stimuli can lead to lasting phobias or even hearing damage akin to the effects of gunshots. [3] Physical Harm to Pets, Farm Animals, and Wildlife The panic caused by fireworks can drive animals to flee their safe spaces, sometimes with tragic outcomes. The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA) highlights that roughly 20% of lost pets disappear after fireworks displays. [1] Farm animals, such as horses and cows, can suffer fatal injuries trying to escape the commotion. Stampeding often leads to broken limbs or worse. [3] Wildlife, like birds, may abandon their nests, leading to exhausted parents and starving chicks. [2] Environmental Damage: Pollution and Beyond Beneath the pretty explosions lies a cloud of pollutants that poses a significant threat to ecosystems. Pollutant Impact Source Perchlorates & Heavy Metals Contaminate water bodies, posing risks to aquatic life. Firework residue. Fine Dust (PM10) Aggravates respiratory issues; travels great distances. Result from explosions. Debris Mistaken for food by animals, causing harm. Accumulates in habitats. Smoke Causes eye and respiratory irritation. Lingering haze post-display. This pollution is part of a "One Health" concern that connects human, animal, and environmental health. Experts are prompting for regulatory measures to mitigate these impacts. [3] Real-World Data: Holidays Spike the Toll Special occasions, especially the likes of Independence Day in the US and similar holidays worldwide, see a peak in fireworks displays, which correlates with a surge in lost pets and wildlife casualties. [1] Safer Celebrations: Alternatives and Protections Fortunately, there are steps we can take to enjoy festivals while minimizing harm to animals and the environment. Here are some alternatives: Pet Safety: Provide a quiet, secure environment, using white noise or pheromone diffusers to calm them. Ensure that pets have up-to-date ID tags or microchips. [2] Regulations: Advocate for stricter controls on consumer fireworks and promote professional, licensed displays only. [3] Event Alternatives: Consider drone or laser shows that can replicate the visual experience without the noise and environmental damage. [1] Wildlife Considerations: Schedule events outside of breeding seasons and provide habitats with additional care and attention. [3] Conclusion As we continue to celebrate the beauty of fireworks, it's vital to acknowledge the unintended consequences on our environment and the animal kingdom. By embracing sustainable alternatives, we can ensure that our celebrations are not marred with unintended tragedies. Together, we can spark change for a healthier and more compassionate planet.```html```

According to the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services, one horse at a boarding facility in Palm Beach County has tested positive for equine herpesvirus-1 (EHV-1). The horse is quarantined, and 52 additional horses have been exposed.EDCC Health Watch is an Equine Network marketing program that utilizes information from the Equine Disease Communication Center (EDCC) to create and disseminate verified equine disease reports. TheEDCCis an independent nonprofit organization that is supported by industry donations in order to provide open access to infectious disease information.EHV 101Herpesvirus is highly contagious among horses and can cause a variety of ailments in equids, including rhinopneumonitis (a respiratory disease usually found in young horses), abortion in broodmares, and EHM.In many horses, the first or only sign of EHV-1 infection is fever, which can go undetected.In addition to fever, other common signs of EHV-1 infection in young horses include cough, decreased appetite, depression, and a nasal discharge. Pregnant mares typically show no signs of infection before they abort, and abortions usually occur late in gestation (around eight months) but can be earlier. Abortions can occur anywhere from two weeks to several months following infection with EHV-1.Horses with EHM usually have a fever at the onset of the disease and might show signs of a respiratory infection. A few days later, neurologic signs such as ataxia (incoordination), weakness or paralysis of the fore- and hind limbs, urine retention and dribbling, loss of tail tone, and recumbency (inability to rise) develop.Herpesvirus is easily spread by nose-to-nose or close contact with an infectious horse; sharing contaminated equipment including bits, buckets, and towels; or clothing, hands, or equipment of people who have recently had contact with an infectious horse.Routine biosecurity measures, including hygiene and basic cleaning and disinfection practices, should be in place at all times to help prevent disease spread.Current EHV-1 vaccines might reduce viral shedding but are not protective against the neurologic form of the disease. Implementing routine biosecurity practices is the best way to minimize viral spread, and the best method of disease control is disease prevention.

On Dec. 24, a 13-year-old Quarter Horse cross gelding in St. Clair County, Michigan, tested positive for strangles. The horse developed clinical signs on Dec. 15, including fever, nasal discharge, and increased respiratory rate. He is being quarantined.EDCC Health Watch is an Equine Network marketing program that utilizes information from the Equine Disease Communication Center (EDCC) to create and disseminate verified equine disease reports. TheEDCCis an independent nonprofit organization that is supported by industry donations in order to provide open access to infectious disease information.About StranglesStranglesin horses is an infection caused byStreptococcus equisubspeciesequiand spread through direct contact with other equids or contaminated surfaces. Horses that arent showing clinical signs can harbor and spread the bacteria, and recovered horses remain contagious for at least six weeks, with the potential to cause outbreaks long-term.Infected horses can exhibit a variety of clinical signs:FeverSwollen and/or abscessed lymph nodesNasal dischargeCoughing or wheezingMuscle swellingDifficulty swallowingVeterinarians diagnose horses using polymerase chain reaction (PCR) testing with either a nasal swab, wash, or an abscess sample, and they treat most cases based on clinical signs, implementing antibiotics for severe cases. Overuse of antibiotics can prevent an infected horse from developing immunity. Most horses make a full recovery in three to four weeks.A vaccine is available but not always effective. Biosecurity measures of quarantining new horses at a facility and maintaining high standards of hygiene and disinfecting surfaces can helplower the risk of outbreakorcontain one when it occurs.

Ocala, Florida As we prepare to welcome guests to The Equestrian Manor, World Equestrian Center is taking a brief pause to ensure every detail reflects the level of experience we are committed to delivering. The openings of Emmas Patisserie at The Equestrian Manor and The Polo Pony will not occur on December 30, as the opening timing has been adjusted. An updated opening date will beSource

Many of us will be expecting gifts of chocolate or coffee this Christmas, but as much as we enjoy giving and receiving these tasty offerings, most are unaware of the hidden rolehorses and mules playin getting these treats from farm to shelf.A new YouGov poll commissioned by international working animal charityBrookehas revealed a gap between consumer intention and industrytransparency sparking fresh calls to ensure the UKscoffeeand cocoa imports do not come at cost to animal welfare.While77%of GB adults saytheyreaware of where theircoffeecomes from, and74%say the same for chocolate, fewer than6 in 10 (59%)know that animals are routinely used to transportcoffeecherries and cacao pods in producing countries.Awareness drops even lower among 1824s (55%), despite the demographic being among the fastest-growing consumers of barista-madecoffee.However, concern is high among the public, with 82%saying animal welfare standards are important when buyingcoffeeor chocolate, 85%prioritising fair wages for farmers and 65%paying more forcoffeeand/or chocolate products guaranteeing good animal welfare during transport.More than55%would support an equine-welfare stamp on theircoffeeor chocolate.Women (71%) and younger adults (25-34 years, 72%) are the most willing to pay more for animal-friendly certification.The role of equinesHorses and mulesare essential tocoffeeand cacao production in many countries, includingNicaragua, one of the worlds top 15coffee-producing nations and the largest cacao producer in Central America. In remote areas where transport is unaffordable or impractical, working equinesremainthe only way to move produce from mountainous farms to central collection points.However, long hours, steep terrain, heavyloadsand limited access to veterinary care mean the animals are often at risk of injury,exhaustionand preventable disease.Withouthorsesand mules, much of thecoffeeand cacao exported globally simplycouldntreach markets, said Brookes Global Head of Policy and Advocacy, Anna Marry.These animals are the invisible workforce behind products Brits enjoy every day. The good news is that with training, veterinaryaccessand simple changes in handling, working equines can live healthier lives and farmers can increase productivity.Brooke is helping to improve this in Nicaragua right now, and we ask consumers to support animal-friendly brands and retailers as best they can.Brooke has partnered with Nicaraguan farming communities to improve harnessing, load management, veterinaryaccessand sustainable business skills.Farmer Jos and his son Lester are among those who have been helped the Brooke. Jos and Lester transformed the welfare of their horse ElRojitoafter Brookes training, shifting from heavy, traditional practices to gentle, trust-based care supported by regular vet treatment. This Christmas Brooke is calling on retailers and manufacturers to:Acknowledge the role of working animalsin their supply chains.Adopt and promote best-practice animal welfare, including humane load limits and access to trained animal health workers.Provide clearer labellingso consumers can consciously choose welfare-guaranteed products.It is urging consumers to:Look forethical oranimal welfare certificationson chocolate andcoffeeproduct labels.Support brands actively investing in animal welfare in their supply chain.Back Brookes work, which equips farming communities with the skills and tools needed to protect working equines.Ask retailershow they ensure animal-friendly transport ofcoffeeand cacao.Considerpurchasingorganicproducts, why typically include higher animal welfare standardsRelated contentJingle bell trot: The age-old link between horses and the sound of ChristmasOpen the Your Horse Christmas Advent Calendar!Charity calls for urgent help due to equine abandonment crisis9 critical things to get right when youre taking care of a horseThe post Brooke reveals horses hidden role in journey of Christmas treats appeared first on Your Horse.