Firocoxib is now available in an oral solution. | Photo: Shelley PaulsonVeterinarians have long relied on non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) to manage acute and chronic inflammation, with advances improving safety and efficacy. Equine vets commonly use nonselective and COX-1- sparing NSAIDs to treat pain and inflammation. Clear understanding of their mechanisms guides treatment decisions.PhenylbutazonePhenylbutazone (Bute) is the oldest NSAID still widely used in equine medicine. Introduced for humans in 1949, vets adopted it in the 1950s. Decades later, it remains a cornerstone in treating pain and inflammation, including osteoarthritis (OA). But its potent analgesic and anti-inflammatory effects come with significant safety concerns. Chronic use is strongly associated with gastric ulceration, right dorsal colitis, and renal damage.Flunixin MeglumineThe second-most used NSAID in horses is flunixin meglumine. Approved for equine use in 1977, it is the NSAID of choice for soft tissue injuries, inflammation, and feverparticularly GI, respiratory, and eye conditions. Prolonged use can lead to renal toxicity and GI ulceration. It also delays intestinal mucosal healing.FirocoxibFirocoxib is the newest NSAID in equine medicine. It was approved in oral paste form in 2005 (Equioxx), then injectable and tablet forms and an oral solution in 2024 (Equicoxib). Known for its strong COX-1-sparing effects, firocoxib has a COX-1-to-COX-2 binding affinity ratio of 1:250, in contrast to Bute and flunixins 1:1 ratio. This high COX-2 selectivity allows it to effectively manage OA clinical signs and significantly reduce risk of adverse effects.Efficacy of FirocoxibSeveral studies support firocoxibs efficacy for treating equine OA. In 2008, Doucet et al. compared firocoxib and Bute in 253 horses with naturally occurring OA-related lameness. After 14 days, 84.6% of firocoxib-treated and 86.6% of Bute-treated horses showed improvement, indicating comparable clinical efficacy.In 2012, Orsini et al. studied 390 client-owned horses with OA-related pain and lameness across 80 sites. They saw significant improvement in 78.7% (307/390) of cases over the 14-day treatment.Safety ProfileFirocoxibs most significant advantage may be its broad safety profile. In the original field efficacy study, only 0.03% treated at the label dose had adverse events.In a safety study, one horse group received the label dose for 30 days, another received 3X the label dose, and a third received 5X the dose for 30 days. No adverse effects were seen in the label-dose group. The 3X and 5X groups had clinically significant oral lesions, and the 5X group had clinical pathologic abnormalities.Modern equine medicine depends on a small selection of approved NSAIDs to manage acute and chronic pain and inflammation. Among the three most used options, firocoxib offers clinical efficacy comparable to Bute and flunixin but with a substantially better safety profile. So, firocoxib represents a valuable advancement in the management of OA in horses.References:Tobin T, et al. Phenylbutazone in the horse: a review (1986). Maxwell H. Gluck Equine Research Center Faculty Publications. 94.Flood J, Stewart AJ. Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs and associated toxicities in horses. Animals (Basel). 2022;12(21):2939.Marshall JF, Blikslager AT. The effect of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs on the equine intestine. Equine Vet J. 2011;43:140144.Doucet MY, et al. Comparison of efficacy and safety of paste formulations of firocoxib and phenylbutazone in horses with naturally occurring osteoarthritis. JAVMA. 2008;232:1.Orsini JA, et al. Evaluation of oral administration of firocoxib for the management of musculoskeletal pain and lameness associated with osteoarthritis in horses. Am J Vet Res. 2012;73(5):664-71.Freedom of information summary. NADA 141-253. Equioxx oral paste. 2005.

Section Key Points Introduction Hi-vis horsewear is essential for safety, reducing road accidents by enhancing visibility for horse riders. What Makes Hi-Vis Horsewear Essential? Safety: Boosts visibility with fluorescent colors and reflective materials, increasing detection by up to 300%. Comfort: Lightweight materials and adjustable straps ensure comfort and free movement. Top Hi-Vis Horsewear Categories Reflective Exercise Sheets and Blankets: Wide coverage, 360-degree reflectivity. Horze Hi-Viz Sheet is ideal. Hi-Vis Brushing Boots and Tendon Boots: Leg protection and visibility. Example: Woof Wear Boots. Reflective Horse Tack Accessories: Accessories like arm/leg bands and halters for additional protection. Enhancing Visibility with Rider Hi-Vis Gear Full-Body Hi-Vis: Adds to horse's hi-vis gear. Consider sheets and vests, like Hy5 Reflector Gloves. Color and Fit: Effective colors: yellow, orange, lime green. Ensure fitting for movement without gaps. Maintaining Hi-Vis Horsewear Care Tips: Wash in cold water, avoid bleach, check for wear to preserve effectiveness. Conclusion Investing in hi-vis horsewear enhances safety through visibility, comfort, and durability. Explore options at Just Horse Riders. Introduction For horse riders who frequently venture onto roads or unpredictable trails, high visibility (hi-vis) horsewear is not just a fashion statementit's an essential part of safety gear. With road accidents involving horses being a considerable concern, anything that enhances visibility can significantly reduce the chances of a mishap. In this blog, we'll explore the best hi-vis horsewear options, focusing on safety, comfort, and style, ensuring that both rider and horse stand out in all conditions. What Makes Hi-Vis Horsewear Essential? Safety Above All The key purpose of hi-vis horsewear is to boost visibility. By utilizing fluorescent colors and reflective materials, these products enhance the horse and rider's visibility to drivers, cyclists, and other road users. Research has shown that reflective gear can increase detection distance by up to 300% in low-light conditions, offering critical response time for motorists (source). Comfort Without Compromise Hi-vis doesn't mean compromising on comfort. Modern designs use breathable and lightweight materials to ensure free movement and prevent overheating. Features like adjustable straps cater to different body shapes, fitting snugly and comfortably around your horse. Top Hi-Vis Horsewear Categories Reflective Exercise Sheets and Blankets Exercise sheets provide wide coverage, ideal for making your horse visible from afar. Products like the Horze Hi-Viz Reflective Riding Sheet are popular due to their 360-degree reflectivity and secure fit, perfect for longer rides. Even in warm weather, sheets with mesh panels ensure comfort and good air flow. Hi-Vis Brushing Boots and Tendon Boots Protect your horse's legs while increasing visibility. Products like Woof Wear Reflective Club Hi-Viz Boots offer both safety and comfort, featuring impact protection and reflective straps designed to withstand the rigors of riding. Reflective Horse Tack Accessories Aside from larger equipment, reflective halters, harnesses, and tail guards add layered protection. Accessories like Reflective Arm/Leg Bands and soft-padded halters provide extra visibility without adding bulk. They can be seamlessly integrated with other gear to increase the overall detection rate of your horse. Enhancing Visibility with Rider Hi-Vis Gear Full-Body Hi-Vis for Riders Pairing your horse's hi-vis gear with rider high-visibility apparel creates a larger visual profile. Consider Hi-Vis Exercise Sheets or vests, which provide not only extra safety but also style. Furthermore, gloves with signal-friendly material like the Hy5 Reflector Gloves are functional and secure in all seasons. Importance of Color and Fit Classic colors such as yellow, orange, and lime green have proven to be the most effective according to safety standards. While bright colors attract attention in daylight, the fit remains crucial for both performance and comfort. It is critical that apparel allows for free movement without gaps or bindings. Maintaining Hi-Vis Horsewear Care Tips for Longevity Maintaining your hi-vis horsewear ensures consistent effectiveness. Washing in cold water helps preserve the reflective elements. Avoid bleach and make a habit of inspecting the fabric for signs of wear. Regular maintenance can keep both you and your horse safe on many rides to come. Conclusion Investing in quality hi-vis horsewear is a smart choice for anyone serious about safety while riding. An effective blend of visibility, comfort, and durability can transform your riding experience, reducing risks and allowing for more relaxed, enjoyable outings. Remember, every componentfrom exercise sheets to rider vests and even the smallest halterplays a critical role in enhancing your safety and your horse's. Explore the complete range of options at Just Horse Riders and find what best suits your needs. Ride safely and see the difference in peace of mind.```html```

Why winter hydration matters (even when its cold)Its easy to assume dehydration is a summer problem. But winter is when many horses quietly drink less especially if water is icy, buckets freeze, and theyre living on dry forage.If youre worried about colic risk, your horse seems unwell, or drinking drops suddenly, speak to your vet.Quick answer: can horses get dehydrated in winter?Yes, they can.Many horses drink less in cold weather, and winter routines can reduce water intake without you noticing straight away.Common winter triggers include:Very cold water thats less appealingFrozen buckets or troughs reducing accessMore hay (dry forage) and less grassLess movement if stabled moreSigns your horse may not be drinking enoughKeep it simple: look for changes from your horses normal.Common signs include:Drier, smaller droppingsReduced appetite or leaving forageLess urine or darker urineDullness or seeming offDrinking eagerly when fresh water is offeredIf youre concerned, dont wait get veterinary advice.Why horses often drink less in cold weatherA few everyday winter realities can reduce intake:Icy water can put some horses offBuckets can freeze overnight or ice over during the dayHorses may be turned out in wind/rain and choose shelter instead of walking to waterStabled horses may drink less if water isnt refreshed often (or is too cold)The goal is to make drinking easy and routine not a battle.Simple ways to encourage drinking in winterThese are the practical basics that help most:Refresh water little-and-often during cold snapsBreak ice and replace water rather than leaving slushy waterIf suitable for your setup, offer slightly warmed water (not hot)Use more than one bucket so theres always a backupKeep buckets away from draughts and off cold concrete where possibleIf frozen water is a constant issue, you may also find this helpful:https://www.chestnutmill.co.uk/blogs/equestrian/stop-horse-water-freezingDo salt licks help horses drink more?They can help some horses.Salt supports normal hydration and electrolyte balance, and having access to salt can encourage drinking especially if your horse isnt getting much salt elsewhere.That said, its not a magic fix. If water is frozen or your horse dislikes the temperature, you still need to solve the basics first.Salt lick vs mineral lick (simple explanation)Salt licks are mainly sodium chloride.Mineral licks include salt plus added minerals (varies by product).If your horse already has a balanced diet or supplement plan, choose licks thoughtfully so youre not doubling up unnecessarily.Where to put a lick (so it actually gets used)Place it somewhere easy to reach where your horse spends timeKeep it dry and cleanGive it time some horses take a while to use licks regularlyBrowse:https://www.chestnutmill.co.uk/collections/new-horse-salt-mineral-licksWinter hydration checklist (quick routine)Water available at all times (not frozen)Refresh water little-and-often in cold snapsConsider slightly warmed water (not hot)Plenty of forage (fibre supports warmth and gut health)Salt/mineral lick available (if appropriate)Monitor droppings, appetite, and behaviourFAQsDo horses need salt in winter?Many benefit from access to salt/minerals year-round. Needs vary, so if youre unsure, ask your vet or an equine nutritionist.Can a salt lick make my horse drink more?It can encourage drinking for some horses, but it wont help if water access is limited or frozen.How do I know if my horse is dehydrated?Look for changes like drier droppings, reduced appetite, less urine, or a noticeable drop in drinking. If concerned, contact your vet.How much water should a horse drink per day?It varies by horse, diet, and workload. The most useful benchmark is whats normal for your horse then act if it changes.Is it safe to give warm water?Slightly warmed water is commonly used in winter. Avoid hot water and introduce changes gradually.Can dehydration cause colic?Dehydration can contribute to digestive issues. If youre worried about colic risk, speak to your vet.Whats the difference between a salt lick and a mineral lick?A salt lick is mainly sodium chloride. A mineral lick includes salt plus added minerals (varies by product).Should all horses have access to a lick?Many owners provide one, but it depends on the overall diet and management. If unsure, ask your vet or nutritionist.Make winter hydration easierIf youre trying to keep winter routines simple, focus on the basics: reliable water access, a refresh routine, and sensible support from salt/minerals where appropriate.Helpful links:Horse salt & mineral licks: https://www.chestnutmill.co.uk/collections/new-horse-salt-mineral-licksHorse supplements: https://www.chestnutmill.co.uk/collections/new-horse-supplementsFeeding equipment (buckets, tubs and more): https://www.chestnutmill.co.uk/collections/new-horse-feeding-equipment

Veterinarians have a wide range of options for treating equine joint disease. | Photos.comVeterinarians have a wide range of options for treating equine joint disease and often utilize a multimodal approach to include a variety of therapies. Some of the most common intra-articular (IA, into the joint) therapies veterinarians use include corticosteroids, orthobiologics, and polyacrylamide hydrogels.Steroids vs. Orthobiologics for Equine Joint DiseaseIn recent years veterinarians report using orthobiologics more frequently when treating horses with joint problems, said Erin Contino, MS, DVM, Dipl. ACVSMR, an associate professor at Colorado State University, during her presentation at the 2025 American Association of Equine Practitioners Convention, held Dec. 6-10 in Denver, Colorado. This is due to their long-term efficacy, overall safety, and in some cases client request.When using corticosteroids, veterinarians often turn to triamcinolone for high-motion joints such as the coffin and stifle joint and methylprednisolone for low-motion joints such as the pastern and distal (lower) hock joint. However, researchers have found some corticosteroids can be damaging to joints.Each has their own place, said Contino. Case selection is very important. She added that orthobiologics are often a better option for overweight and metabolic horses due to the potential endocrine effects of corticosteroids. In one study of normal horses, researchers found joint injections using triamcinolone led to a significant increase in the horses systemic insulin levels for up to 120 hours following injection. There is no safe dose of corticosteroids in metabolic horses, said Contino. We also cant rely on the horses appearance to determine his metabolic status, so testing is crucial.What Orthobiologics Do Veterinarians Use in Horses?Contino said the five types of orthobiologics veterinarians most commonly use are:Autologous conditioned serum (ACS), which blocks interleukin-1 beta (IL-1, a highly potent inducer of cartilage degradation in horses with osteoarthritis) and reduces inflammation. However, because it takes 24 hours to process before administration, veterinarians cannot complete the treatment in the same day. Researchers are currently looking for an off-the-shelf product to improve accessibility, said Contino.Autologous protein solution (APS) contains a large profile of cytokines (immunoregulatory proteins) in the joint that reduce inflammation and provide restorative factors. Contino said in one study horses showed a decrease in lameness following treatment with APS, and in another the joint tissue histopathology (cell structure when viewed under a microscope) scores improved after treatment.Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) utilizes beneficial growth factors of platelets to help repair joint tissue. Contino said veterinarians should be aware there can be substantial differences in the composition, including the concentration of platelets, in each individual PRP product. In a review of PRP use in horses, researchers found intra-articular PRP is likely effective, but there are a limited number of randomized control studies.Alpha-2 macroglobulin (A2M) is an acute-phase protein present primarily in plasma. In rats, A2M has shown to be chondroprotective (joint-protecting), and in humans it inhibits catabolic factors, said Contino, which refers to the destruction of cartilage. There is little research on its efficacy in horses, but one study showed it does not produce adverse reactions.Mesenchymal stromal cells (MSCs) have the strongest evidence for use in soft tissues but also can be beneficial in joints, said Contino, and have anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory properties to optimize healing. In a study of goats with severe meniscal injury, the treated joints had repair tissue present after MSC injection. In another study researchers reported 75% of horses treated with MSCs following stifle surgery returned to work. One group of researchers found a decreased risk of superficial digital flexor tendon reinjury following MSC treatment.Polyacrylamide Hydrogel Treatment in HorsesCurrently, two injectable polyacrylamide hydrogel (PAAG) options are available on the marketa 2.5% product and a 4% producteach with different mechanisms of action, said Contino. The 2.5% integrates into synovial (joint) lining and creates synovial hyperplasia (an increase in synovial cells) for at least two years. It has also been shown to increase joint capsule elasticity.In clinical trial groups of 1242 horses treated with 2.5% PAAG, 6775% of the horses were still sound six months after treatment. In one study researchers saw soundness in 83% of horses two years after treatment. Small studies have shown better outcomes following treatment with 2.5% PAAG compared to corticosteroid treatment.Contino said 4% PAAG adheres to cartilage surfaces for at least one month and decreases friction. Researchers have found the product remains on the joint surface, but it does not appear to permanently incorporate into the joint. When compared to corticosteroids, horses treated with 4% PAAG showed decreased lameness, said Contino. In another study researchers found serial 4% PAAG injections were not detrimental.Take-Home MessageChoosing between corticosteroids, orthobiologics, or polyacrylamide hydrogels for equine joint injections depends on the individual horse, the joint involved, and underlying risks. Therefore, careful case selection supports long-term joint health and soundness, said Contino.

Working animal charity Brooke has called for compassionate treatment of donkeys after recent scenes in an episode of The Real Housewives of Salt Lake City showed reality stars riding donkeys up steep hills in Santorini.Brooke is asking people to recognise working animals like donkeys as sentient beings with intrinsic value rather than as props for entertainment.The charity has contacted Bravo, who are the production company for The Real Housewives of Salt Lake City,to condone this behaviour andemphasise the poor welfare implications donkey rides can have.Animals need to be treated with dignityTourism can coexist with compassion when animals are treated with dignity, saidDr Laura Skippen, global head of animal health and welfare at Brooke.Good welfare should ensure that animals are cared for, respected and not pushed beyond their needs.Leisure use that is unnecessary or purely for spectacle should never come at the expense of an animals wellbeing, particularly when alternatives exist.We ask that producers and TV stars refrain from using donkey rides for entertainmentand follow a strict internal protocol for filming.Raising standardsHorse and donkeys working in tourism are often used to travel long distances over challenging terrain and with limited access to water and shade.Brooke asks people to consider:Is the animal happy and healthy? Can the animal carry or pull my weight? What alternatives are there to using animals?The charity is asking tourists to contact their tour operator, local police or authority if they believe an animal is being exploited.HistoryBrooke, which was founded by Dorothy Brooke in 1934,works with communities, local health providers and policy makers to create a better life for working animals and their owners.The charity recognises that working animals are an essential part of many communities around the world and without them they would be unable to earn a living, provide food for their families and send their children to school.ReadBrookesguide toresponsible use of animals in tourism.Main stock image Shutterstock.More contentBecky Moody explains how to master the perfect 20m circleJay Halims simple showjumping warm-up routine to jump a clear roundNine course-walking tips for a clear round from Ben MaherRos Canters grid exercise to slow a keen or strong horse when youre jumpingThe post Working animal charity calls out treatment of donkeys in reality TV show appeared first on Your Horse.

There is currently an outbreak of vesicular stomatitis New Jersey virus (VSNJV) in Arizona.On Oct. 31, the National Veterinary Services Laboratories confirmed findings in horses on two separate premises in Cochise County.In November, two new cases were reported, including one case in Gila County and one in Santa Cruz County.On Dec. 9, theNational Veterinary Services Laboratories detected a new VSV case by PCR on swab samples from a lesioned wild horse from the Salt River Wild Horse Management Group located in the Tonto National Forest in Maricopa County.In late December, one affected equine premises was identified in Santa Cruz County, and one previously affected premises in Santa Cruz County was released from quarantine.In early January, one affected premises was identified in Maricopa County, and one was identified in Pinal County.Since the last report on Jan. 9, one new equine premises in Maricopa County has been confirmed as VSV-positive, and one VSV-affected premises in Santa Cruz County has been released from quarantine.The last outbreak of VSV in the U.S. occurred from May 2023 through January 2024, affecting 319 premises across California, Nevada, and Texas. VSV circulates annually between livestock and insect vectors in southern Mexico and only occasionally results in incursion to the U.S.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 Vesicular StomatitisVesicular stomatitis is a viral disease of horses, donkeys, mules, cattle, swine and New World camelids that occurs in the Western Hemisphere. It is named for the characteristic vesicular lesions it causes in the form of blisters, crusts and ulceration of the lips, muzzle, nose, tongue, ears, sheath, teats and/or coronary band. The virus is transmitted by biting midges and therefore is seasonal.Clinical Signs for vesicular stomatitis include:Vesicle formation leading to ulcerative lesions on the lips, muzzle, nostrils and tongue. The tongue is often the most severely affected area.Ulceration of the inner surface of the lips.Crusting of the muzzle, nostrils, and/or inside the ears.Excessive salivation secondary to the oral lesions.Difficulty picking up and chewing feed.Lameness due to painful erosions on the coronary band.Lesions can occur on the udder, sheath and inside of the ear.Lesions can develop secondary infections resulting in slow-to-heal wounds.Animals on pastures are at increased risk of vesicular stomatitis.Initial diagnosis is based on recognition of characteristic vesicular lesions. Infection is confirmed via laboratory testing for serum antibodies and/or virus identification in fluid samples from active lesions. Veterinarians are required to report suspected cases to state/federal animal health officials who will direct sample submission to an approved regulatory laboratory for diagnostic testing.There is no specific treatment for vesicular stomatitis. Best practices include implementing good biosecurity and treating affected horses with pain relievers, anti-inflammatories and supportive care as recommended by a veterinarian.Isolating all affected animals and placing the premise on immediate quarantine is required until all horses have fully recovered and no active lesions are present. The State Veterinarian will work with the local veterinarian to determine and implement necessary quarantine procedures.

On Jan. 23, a 12-year-old draft cross gelding in Genesee County, Michigan, tested positive for strangles. The horse developed signs on Jan. 4, including fever and submandibular lymph node drainage.This is the second confirmed strangles case at this premises. The first case was reported in November 2025, and the property has been under quarantine since then.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.