Vitalize is proud to announce the addition of Bryan McNabb, DVM of the Lebanon Equine Clinic in Ohio, as Vitalize EQ Consulting Veterinarian.BioZyme Inc. President and CEO Lisa Norton said, Dr. McNabbs lifelong commitment to animal care mirrors our own belief in caring for every animal, every daywith care that comes full circle. His veterinary expertise and focus on using a multimodal approach to whole-animal health, including exceptional husbandry, pharmaceuticals as needed, and diet/supplements, align perfectly with our overall goals: helping animals live their best lives and perform at their peak for their owners. I am excited to welcome Bryan to the Vitalize EQ family.My love of veterinary medicine and approach to the health of the whole animal makes working with the folks at Vitalize EQ a natural fit, McNabb said. Their product line benefits are all backed by scientific research, providing real, positive impact on the health and quality of life we want for our beloved animals. As a competitive jumper rider myself, Ive seen the results personally. Im happy to join the Vitalize EQ team.McNabbs love for horses began at age seven in his hometown of Cincinnati, Ohio. He grew up riding with the Miami Valley Pony Club and eventing across the Midwest, while also competing in premier soccer throughout his youth, college years and semiprofessional. McNabb earned his veterinary degree from The Ohio State University, where he was named Most Outstanding Student in Equine Surgery and Medicine. After graduating in 2003, he returned to Cincinnati to join The Lebanon Equine Clinic, where he has worked since age sixteen and is now a partner.For over a decade, McNabb has consulted for supplement companies. His passion to provide a natural, scientifically proven and fundamentally supported product led to the development of BioSync. His goal is to create premium products that enhance horses performance and well-being, empowering owners and trainers with the best of the best for their athletes.For interviews or additional details, please contact BioZyme Inc. directly.

Bute seems relatively safe in broodmares. | Anne M. Eberhardt/The HorseBreeders routinely produce equine embryos in vitro (in the lab) by maturing oocytes and fertilizing them using intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI), a process in which a single sperm is injected directly into the egg. However, historically, researchers have conducted little work examining how systemic therapies administered to mares affect oocyte quality and subsequent blastocyst development in vitro. Kristen Loncar, DVM, MS, Dipl. ACT, of Equine Medical Services, in Columbia, Missouri, addressed this question during her presentation at the 2025 American Association of Equine Practitioners Convention, held Dec. 6-10, in Denver, Colorado.How NSAIDs Affect Mare ReproductionMany mares need daily nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory (NSAID) administration to maintain adequate quality of life. However, phenylbutazone (Bute) can block important locally acting signaling molecules called prostaglandins, which might cause an increased incidence of hemorrhagic anovulatory follicles (follicles that grow but fail to release an egg) and decreased uterine clearance after breeding. Follicles will get bigger and bigger, but (the mares) wont ovulate, said Loncar.Normally, luteinizing hormone (LH) triggers ovulation and the formation of the corpus luteum, which then produces progesterone to support early pregnancy. The LH surge also leads to an increase in prostaglandins within the follicular fluid. These prostaglandins play a role in forming the follicular wall and eventual follicle rupture. If we are blocking those prostaglandins, we arent going to see that final maturation, and were not going to see that ovulation, she added.After breeding, prostaglandins help the uterus contract to expel any dead sperm, excess fluid, and inflammatory debris. Loncar describes this as a very normal, very necessary processes. Blocking prostaglandins causes mares to retain fluid for multiple days, so they might need additional therapies.How NSAIDs Affect Equine OocytesLoncars team sought to investigate whether Bute affects egg quality or embryo development. In the first study they used 14 Quarter Horse-type mares ranging in age from 7 to 15 years divided into Group A and Group B. Group A received liquid Bute orally at a rate of 4.4 milligrams/kilogram once daily for 10 days. Group B served as a control. On Day 10 all mares underwent transvaginal aspiration (TVA) with subsequent in vitro oocyte maturation and ICSI. The team used frozen-thawed semen from a Quarter Horse stallion that had previously yielded good ICSI outcomes, said Loncar.They recorded oocyte recovery and maturation rates, cleavage rate (speed of cell division) after fertilization, and blastocyte rates (percentage of fertilized eggs that develop into an embryo) after ICSI. After the cycles were finished the researchers rotated groups, so each mare served as her own control.Results showed no significant differences in any measured categories and no statistical difference between groups for day of blastocyst development.In a second study Loncar and her colleagues included different formulations of Bute. This time they divided 15 mares aged 7 to 11 into three groups. Group C received liquid Bute intravenously; Group D received paste Bute orally; and group E served as an untreated control. On Day 10 all mares underwent TVA with subsequent ICSI. The team recorded oocyte recovery and maturation rates, cleavage rates, and blastocyst rates. Once again they rotated mares so each group received each treatment.The researchers saw no statistical differences in any categories, but they noticed the blastocyst rate for mares treated with paste was lower than others. Loncar theorized there might be something in the paste that could potentially influence oocyte and blastocyst formation, but more research is needed. In addition, they saw no statistical difference in what day the embryos developed.Take-Home MessageBute did not cause a significant decrease in blastocyst production when given to healthy mares for a 10-day period, said Loncar. These results are similar to those in other species, but contradictory to a previous study in horses.She said she found the results encouraging: We feel very comfortable keeping mares on Bute if they require it to maintain an adequate quality of life, so we are not going to change how were handling these mares.

On Feb. 25, a Quarter Horse broodmare in Stutsman County, North Dakota, tested positive for equine herpesvirus (EHV) after aborting her foal on Feb. 17. Forty horses on the farm 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.

10 min read Last updated: January 2026 Want a young dressage horse you can enjoy, not endure? Youll learn to read pedigrees for temperament and soundnessprioritising proven damlines, favouring stallions with documented rideability, sidestepping ultrahot crossesand how to confirm it with a 5stage vetting, so you stack the odds for a calmer, sounder partnership. Quick Summary Short on time? Here are the key takeaways. Area: Prioritise Damline What To Do: Start at the mare line; confirm the dam, granddam and close relatives have competed, stayed sound and produced rideable stock with verifiable records and videos. Why It Matters: The damline most reliably predicts temperament, durability and daytoday manageability. Common Mistake: Being seduced by a famous sire while the tailfemale line is blank. Area: Select Rideable Sires What To Do: Choose stallions with documented rideability and trainabilityread test reports, progeny notes and amateur results, not just marketing. Why It Matters: Proven sire rideability adds an engine you can actually train. Common Mistake: Picking ultramodern, hot sires that overwhelm an amateur. Area: Use Objective Scores What To Do: Check British Breeding Futurity scores (aim 8.0+) and BD Young Horse results; crosscheck with producer references and public databases. Why It Matters: Independent assessment backs up claims and helps compare prospects fairly. Common Mistake: Relying on sales patter without thirdparty evidence. Area: Avoid Risky Patterns What To Do: Screen pedigrees for close inbreeding, repeated sharp/overreactive notes, extreme frontend flash, weak limbs or recurring lameness in relatives. Why It Matters: Removing builtin risks improves rideability and longterm soundness. Common Mistake: Excusing multiple red flags because one relative was a star. Area: Test Temperament Well What To Do: Observe catching, tacking and mounting; ride after minimal lungeing, test basic aids, hack in company and briefly alone, and return for a second viewing in different conditions. Why It Matters: Consistency across situations is the hallmark of an amateurfriendly brain. Common Mistake: Letting the seller tire the horse or only trying it in a quiet arena. Area: Do Full Vetting What To Do: Book a 5stage vetting with your own sporthorse vet; add targeted radiographs, discuss OC/wind/hoof quality, and request any prior Xrays and reports. Why It Matters: A thorough, tailored exam reduces future soundness surprises and expense. Common Mistake: Skipping imaging or accepting a vendorarranged quick check. Area: Shop Smart UK What To Do: Shortlist Futurity graduates, BD young horse contenders and transparent studs/producers; ask for passport, full pedigree, vet history, shoeing cycle and varied videos. Why It Matters: Reputable sources and paperwork increase the odds of an honest match. Common Mistake: Chasing bargain adverts with scant records or refusing repeat viewings. Area: Nail First 90 Days What To Do: Budget for coaching, saddle fitting, dentistry, farriery and physio; give turnout, simple feed and a progressive plan focused on rhythm, balance and basics before expression. Why It Matters: Calm, consistent management turns good breeding into steady progress. Common Mistake: Rushing for flashy movement and changing routines weekly. In This Guide What matters most in a dressage pedigree? Bloodlines to prioritise for amateur-friendly dressage horses Bloodlines and patterns to treat with caution How to read a pedigree like a pro Temperament first: test the brain, not just the brand Vetting and heritable risks: protect your future soundness Where to shop in the UK for reliable prospects Budget and set-up: plan the first 90 days You want a young dressage horse you can enjoy, not endure. The smartest way to stack the odds in your favour is to read the pedigree for temperament and soundness first, then verify those promises with calm, consistent handling and a thorough vetting.Key takeaway: Choose proven damlines for brain and durability, pick stallions with documented rideability, avoid close inbreeding and extreme hot lines for amateur riders, and always confirm on the day with a proper trial and 5stage vetting.What matters most in a dressage pedigree?The single most reliable predictor of a sane, sound prospect is a damline that consistently produces rideable, durable horses, backed by a stallion with proven rideability and trainability. Fashionable names matter far less than a family that repeatedly turns out straightforward athletes.In practice, that means prioritising pedigrees where the mother, granddam, and close relatives have competed, stayed sound in work, and produced multiple offspring with similar type and brain. For an amateur rider, the engine from the sire is useful, but the damline is where youll often find the temperament, durability, and daytoday manageability that make a horse enjoyable to own.Look for evidence you can verify: competition records in recognised classes, consistent comments about rideability, and independent evaluations. In the UK, the British Breeding Futurity programme assesses young horses (foals to 5yearolds) for athletic potential by discipline, including dressage, and provides scoring that can help you compare prospects. Horses scoring 8.0+ are highlighted as elite candidates for further selection, which can be a helpful early indicator when combined with your own assessment.Bloodlines to prioritise for amateur-friendly dressage horsesPrioritise pedigrees that repeatedly produce good temperaments, correct conformation, and sound performance over several generations. Consistency beats occasional brilliance when you want a stressfree partner.Favour lines and families that reliably deliver: Rideability: Stallion testing or progeny reports that emphasise willing, trainable, and easy to collect carry real weight for amateurs. Proven damlines: Multiple siblings or maternal relatives in work at the level you aspire to, ideally with competition records you can look up. Correct fundamentals: Strong toplines, well-set necks, a hindleg that steps under, and clean limbs are the raw materials for sound work. Moderate, elastic movement: Swing through the back and rhythm are more rideable than extreme, flicky gaits that can be hard to sit and hard to keep sound. Independent validation: British Breeding Futurity results, BD Young Horse classes, or transparent producer records you can verify.When comparing two pedigrees, choose the one that shows the same desirable traits repeated by different relatives. A single star in an otherwise empty page can be luck; a family of good, useable horses is a pattern you can bank on.Bloodlines and patterns to treat with cautionTreat ultra-hot, ultra-modern lines with caution if youre not riding at a professional level, and avoid close inbreeding and families with repeated soundness or temperament red flags. The goal is a horse you can develop steadily, not one that requires managing around inherited quirks.Proceed carefully if you see: Close inbreeding or heavy linebreeding without evidence of soundness in the family; you want hybrid vigour, not fragility. Repeated reports of sharp, sensitive, or overreactive in close relatives when you need a confidencegiver. Extreme frontend flash without matching hindleg use; this can be hard to ride correctly and may strain soft tissues over time. Offspring notes mentioning wind issues, recurring lameness, poor feet, or conformational weaknesses (very long pasterns, back at the knee, very weak loins) across several relatives. Pedigrees that look impressive on paper but lack any record of relatives actually staying in work; results beat rhetoric every time.None of these are automatic dealbreakers on their own, but together they form a risk profile. You want a pedigree that reduces risk, not one that builds it in.How to read a pedigree like a proRead from the damline up: the mare family tells you about brain, durability and type, while the sire and grandsires add scope, mechanics, and expression. Your aim is to see the same strengths appear from multiple directions.Work through this quick framework: Start with the dam: Has she competed, stayed sound, and/or produced multiple useful youngsters? Ask for details, videos, and contactable references. Check the granddam and greatgranddam: Are there repeated performers in the direct female line? A strong tailfemale record is gold dust for amateurs. Evaluate the sire: Look for rideability comments from testing or progeny, a record of producing amateurfriendly stock, and offspring competing at your target levels. Identify reinforcing names: When the same influential ancestor appears from multiple directions and the horse in front of you matches that type, it suggests the qualities are genuinely stamped, not accidental. Balance modern and old: A blend of modern mechanics with older, proven soundness lines often produces a rideable, lasting athlete. Verify with results: British Breeding Futurity scores, BD results for siblings, and producer references should back up what the paper promises.Pro tip: Dont overvalue a famous sire if the damline is blank. For an ownerrider, an honest family with solid engines beats a single superstar at the top of the page.Temperament first: test the brain, not just the brandTemperament trumps bloodlines every time; ride and handle the horse in multiple situations to confirm the brain you want. A pedigree can predict tendencies, but only time in the saddle proves the daytoday reality.On your trial days: Watch the horse come in from the field and be tacked up. You want relaxed, polite, and curious, not anxious or shut down. Ride after minimal lungeing. A horse that needs to be tired out to behave isnt ready for an amateur rider. Test the basics: straightness, rhythm, a soft contact, and go and whoa off light aids. A good brain shows in the simple things. Hack in company and, if safe and permitted, briefly alone. The reaction to new sights and sounds tells you more than 10 minutes in an arena. Come back a second time, ideally on a different day and in different weather. Consistency is the hallmark of a trainable temperament.Arrive prepared so you can focus on feel. Bring your own correctly fitted riding helmet, supportive riding boots, and grippy, comfortable breeches. If you plan to hack on roads during a trial, pack suitable hivis rider gear to keep everyone safe.Vetting and heritable risks: protect your future soundnessBook a full 5stage vetting with your own vet, add targeted radiographs as advised, and discuss any heritable risks before you pay a deposit. The purchase exam is your opportunity to reduce longterm risk.Work with an equine vet familiar with sport horses and British Dressage demands. A typical 5stage vetting assesses heart, lungs, eyes, conformation, movement in hand and under saddle, and recovery after exercise, with flexion tests and, where indicated, endoscopy or imaging. Discuss what you plan to do with the horse and let your vet tailor any additional views to that goal.Heritable points to consider with warmbloods and sport horses include predisposition to osteochondrosis/OC, hoof quality, and wind. If you intend to breed, ask for the horses status for conditions relevant to breeding stock (for example, carrier screening in breeding mares and stallions). Your vet can advise on which tests are meaningful for your situation and which findings are incidental for a riding career.Quick tip: Ask for any existing Xrays or previous vet reports up front. Transparency at this stage is a strong positive signal from a seller.Where to shop in the UK for reliable prospectsStart with British Breeding Futurity graduates, BD Young Horse classes, and reputable stud farms and producers who publish results and welcome repeat viewings. You want sellers who value a longterm match over a quick sale.Productive routes for UK buyers include: British Breeding Futurity results: Foals to 5yearolds are assessed for athletic potential by discipline. Scores from 8.0+ are highlighted and can help shortlist youngsters whose conformation, movement and veterinary assessments align with dressage. British Dressage young horse classes: Watching ageappropriate classes is a fast way to see what rides well in public, how amateurfriendly types look and move, and which producers turn out consistent, relaxed horses. Reputable breeders and producers: Look for clear websites, detailed videos, parent and sibling records, and willingness to provide references and trial opportunities. Word of mouth via your coach and yard network: Good amateurs tend to buy from the same handful of trusted sourcesask around.When you enquire, ask for the passport, full pedigree, any Futurity scorecards, vet history, turnout routine, shoeing cycle, and video of the horse in different contexts (arena, hack, loading). Sellers who have nothing to hide will usually have everything to hand.Budget and set-up: plan the first 90 daysBudget beyond the purchase price for professional input, careful management, and essential kit, and commit to calm, consistent routines for the first three months. A good start makes the most of good breeding.Allow for coaching, saddle fitting, routine dentistry and farriery, and initial physiotherapy as needed. Set the horse up with turnout, a simple feed that supports steady work, and a progressive training plan that builds rhythm, balance and basic responses before you worry about expression.A few smart additions smooth the transition: Support legs as training ramps up with suitable horse boots and bandages that fit well and dont overheat. Make daily grooming a quiet, confidencebuilding routine with quality tools from our grooming collection. If your new horse is moving yards, factor in digestive and management changes; many owners find a targeted regime from our supplements range helpful during the settlingin period. UK weather changes fast; have appropriately weighted turnout rugs ready so your youngster can live out comfortably without chills or overheating.At Just Horse Riders, we see the calmest, quickest progress when owners keep the first 90 days boring: turnout, basic schooling, lowpressure hacking, consistent routines, and regular praise.Bringing bloodlines into focus is valuable, but the right horse is the one whose family history aligns with your goalsand whose brain confirms it under saddle. Shortlist pedigrees with proven damlines and rideability, confirm temperament with thoughtful trials, and protect your investment with a robust vetting. Do that, and youll give yourself the best chance of a happy partnership that lasts.FAQsAre warmbloods the only sensible option for dressage in the UK?No. While warmbloods dominate at higher levels, many amateurs enjoy successful, sane partnerships with natives, traditional types, and thoroughbred or cob crosses. Evaluate the individual for temperament, conformation and movement appropriate to your goals, not just the label.Should I avoid a horse thats a carrier for a genetic condition?For a riding horse, carrier status for a condition that does not affect daily health is usually a breeding consideration rather than a riding risk. If you plan to breed, discuss relevant tests with your vet and ensure you do not mate two carriers. Your vet can advise whats meaningful for your specific horse.At what age should I buy a young dressage prospect?Buy at the age that matches your experience and support network. Backed 3 to 5yearolds let you assess temperament under saddle; foals and yearlings can be economical but require experienced handling and patience. Whatever the age, prioritise damline, handling history, and a sensible brain.How many times should I try a horse before buying?At least twice, ideally in different conditions and including a short hack if safe. See the horse handled, tacked, and ridden by someone else first, then ride yourself without excessive lungeing. Consistency across viewings is key.Is a 5stage vetting necessary for a young horse?Yes, a full 5stage vetting is the standard for minimising risk, even in youngsters. It evaluates the horse at rest and after exercise and can be paired with targeted radiographs as your vet recommends for your intended level of work.What firstyear costs should I plan for after purchase?Plan for livery, coaching, saddle fitting, farriery, dentistry, routine veterinary care, and appropriate equipment and rugs. Budget for a calm, progressive training programme and professional help where neededgood management is what turns good breeding into a great partner. Shop the Essentials Everything mentioned in this guide, ready to browse. Shop Riding HelmetsShop Riding BootsShop Jodhpurs & BreechesShop Hi-Vis GearShop Boots & Bandages

Two horses in Louisa County, Virginia, have tested positive for equine herpesvirus-1 (EHV-1). The index case developed neurologic signs, became recumbent, and was euthanized. Another horse on the property developed a fever and tested positive but does not currently have neurologic signs.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 Feb. 2, a 4-year-old Quarter Horse mare in Riverside County, California, tested positive for equine infectious anemia (EIA). The mare was euthanized. Thirty-five potentially exposed horses at the premises have tested negative for EIA and will remain under quarantine until their 60-day retest. Epidemiological tracing is ongoing.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 EIAEquine infectious anemiais a viral disease that attacks horses immune systems. The virus is transmitted through the exchange of body fluids from an infected to an uninfected animal, often by blood-feeding insects such as horseflies. It can also be transmitted through the use of blood-contaminated instruments or needles.ACoggins test screens horses blood for antibodiesthat are indicative of the presence of the EIA virus. Most U.S. states require horses to have proof of a negative Coggins test to travel across state lines.Once an animal is infected with EIA, it is infected for life and can be a reservoir for the spread of disease. Not all horses show signs of disease,but those that do can exhibit:Progressive body condition loss;Muscle weakness;Poor stamina;Fever;Depression; andAnemia.EIA has no vaccine and no cure. A horse diagnosed with the disease dies, is euthanized, or must be placed under extremely strict quarantine conditions (at least 200 yards away from unaffected equids) for the rest of his life.

Early intervention is crucial for appropriate treatment and management of horses with DJD. | Getty ImagesEquine osteoarthritis (OA) is a complex disease process that can be challenging for veterinarians to manage. A new study sponsored by American Regent Animal Health aimed to identify patterns in how equine veterinarians stage, diagnose, and treat osteoarthritis, as well as how they communicate with their clients about OA, to identify areas where additional resources or support could benefit the profession.During the Dec. 7 Sunrise Session Closing the Treatment Gap: Optimizing Early Intervention in Equine DJD, presented by American Regent Animal Health at the 2025 American Association of Equine Practitioners Convention, Sherry Johnson, DVM, MS, PhD, DACVSMR, senior partner at Equine Sports Medicine in Pilot Point, Texas/Scottsdale, Arizona, and Kyla Ortved, DVM, PhD, DACVS, DACVSMR, associate professor of large animal surgery at University of Pennsylvanias New Bolton Center, presented findings from the survey, including the following highlights:93% of equine veterinarians stage OA as mild, moderate, or severe.89% of veterinarians say stage-specific guidance would be helpful.91% say flexibility in guidance is important.Respondent DemographicsThis was a fully blinded study conducted by an independently contracted research firm, with respondents having no knowledge of the surveys affiliation with American Regent Animal Health. In total, 198 equine veterinarians completed the survey, representing 5.2% of equine veterinarians in the United States. This was a nationally representative survey, with respondents from every state except Arkansas and West Virginia. The highest number of respondents came from California and Texas. The survey took an average of 37 minutes to complete.All respondents were currently licensed and practicing in the U.S., with at least 25% of their practice dedicated to equine health and wellness and at least part of their practice associated with joint care. Respondents ranged from early- to late-career practitioners with a broad range of experience.Seventy-one percent of respondents practices focused on general care, and 21% focused on sports medicine. Thirty-one percent worked in equine-only clinics, 29% in mixed-animal clinics, and 28% in ambulatory-only practices.Assessing the Need: Stage-Based OA GuidanceThe presenters reported that 93% of survey respondents stage OA as mild, moderate, or severe. Importantly, 89% of respondents said having a stage-specific framework for managing OA would be extremely, very, or somewhat helpful.When asked why stage-specific guidance would be helpful, respondents noted:It would provide structure and clarity to treatment offerings.It would enhance the evidence base and the objective decision-making process of their overall treatment approach.It would help support younger and/or less specialized veterinarians.It would strengthen owner understanding and expectations.It would help standardize care across multiple-doctor practices.It would help keep pace with evolving therapies.The interesting thing to note is that everyone said we want a framework, but we still want it very flexible, and we still want the ability to modify a plan for each patient, said Johnson.Ninety-two percent of veterinarians agreed its extremely important for any stage-based treatment guidelines to allow for clinical flexibility to accommodate individual patient differences. Additionally, almost every respondent said they always or often observe variability in treatment response or clinical presentation among horses at the same clinical stage of disease.We still dont understand fully how this complex disease process will respond, said Johnson. OA stage alone is not a reliable predictor of how horses are going to present or respond to therapies.How Are Veterinarians Managing OA Today?To determine what stage-based guidance might look like in practice, the survey explored how veterinarians currently manage OA.EvaluationThe survey asked respondents about the clinical, functional, contextual, and imaging factors they rely on to distinguish between stages of OA progression. Common clinical factors cited across all three stages included flexion tests, lameness, and changes in a specific joint (palpation, range of motion, etc.). For mild OA, 68% of respondents also rely on response to intra-articular medication.Lameness and decreased performance were the top functional factors cited across each OA phase. More specifically, how is that horse able to move with the rider? said Ortved. Are we seeing reduced willingness to flex, collect, extend, jump? One key distinction for moderate OA is that clinical signs recur more frequently. For severe OA, horses often exhibit significant joint stiffness, postural changes, and loss of soundness.The most important contextual factor respondents noted for mild OA was owner- or trainer-reported changes. This has changed quite a lot in the last couple of decades, where owners are much more in tune with the behavior and the performance of their horse, said Ortved. In the moderate stage, a history of OA, horse age or career stage, and history of trauma or prior surgery were important factors. Prior surgery was also an important contextual factor in severe OA.Across the three OA stages, respondents reported using easily accessible diagnostic imaging tools, such as radiographs and ultrasound, to detect and monitor changes over time. Some also used MRI, CT, nuclear scintigraphy, and PET.TreatmentThe most common first-line treatments respondents rely on for mild OA cases include rest, turnout or workload modification, systemic anti-inflammatories, and FDA-approved systemic treatments. These are noninvasive modalities. These are modalities that are available readily within practice, and the price point is feasible for most owners, said Johnson. To assess how treatment preferences change with disease severity, respondents were asked to rank their preferred treatments for mild, moderate, and severe OA. For mild cases, management strategies such as shoeing, rest, and workload modification, followed by pharmaceuticals and biologic therapies, were the top responses.Eighty-two percent of respondents use FDA-approved systemic OA injectables for mild cases, with Adequan I.M. (polysulfated glycosaminoglycan) being the most frequently used. In moderate and severe cases, veterinarians tend to shift away from these therapies and rely more heavily on systemic anti-inflammatories or intra-articular medications.What we took away from this is that veterinarians taking this survey do prioritize conservative management strategies such as shoeing, rest, and workload modification for mild OA, said Johnson. As the severity of OA increases, this treatment preference tends to shift toward pharmaceuticals. For moderate and severe cases, the biologic therapies and the physical modalities serve as secondary options.Other treatment and management strategies highlighted in the survey included corrective shoeing, structured physical therapy, shockwave therapy, and weight management. Euthanasia was also cited as a management decision in severe OA cases.Nearly every veterinarian surveyed reported adjusting treatment protocols based on the individual horses response to treatment.Supplement UseApproximately half of respondents said they always or often recommend oral or feed-based joint supplements such as glucosamine and MSM for horses with suspected or diagnosed OA. Notably, more than 80% of respondents reported that horse owners believe supplements alone are sufficient to manage joint disease. Additionally, 42% of veterinarians reported joint supplement usage to occasionally or frequently delay or interfere with their ability to implement appropriate OA treatment.The OA Communication GapSeventy-four percent of respondents said they find it challenging to educate horse owners about stage-appropriate OA intervention. Factors included a quick fix mentality among owners, economic concerns, and influence from trainers and social media.When asked which types of horse owners are most difficult to communicate evidence-based OA treatment decisions with, respondents most frequently cited owners who primarily follow trainer influence.This identifies an opportunity for us, because as veterinarians we dont only communicate with owners; we have to communicate with the entire treatment team, said Ortved. If we do have some more specific stage-based treatment recommendations, it allows us as a profession to be a little bit more specific.Respondents were also asked which communication tools would be most helpful and effective. They expressed a desire for simple, visual, and evidence-based tools that are easy for owners to understand, such as handouts, brochures, or digital resources. Respondents also wanted access to an unbiased, centralized database to look up evidence on different medications.TakeawaysThe purpose of this study was to understand how veterinarians currently stage and treat OA, identify common challenges, and determine how American Regent Animal Health can support practitioners in managing this complex disease.We learned that the profession wants stage-based guidance thats still flexible and still adaptable, said Johnson. This guidance can help improve care outcomes, educate clients, and align multidoctor teams.The areas of consensus identified in the study can help form the foundation of an evidence-based model. In mild OA cases, veterinarians want to intervene early and focus on proactive management. In the moderate OA category, practitioners rely more heavily on pharmaceuticals alongside systemic FDA-approved treatments. In the severe OA category, the primary challenge becomes prioritizing patient comfort and quality of life.Theres clearly a need, and there are a lot of challenges that we still have in our quest toward improving the lives of patients with OA, said Johnson. Were working on those next steps to ultimately advance the research and improve the veterinarians experience in managing OA.This study was conducted from August to September 2025 and has not yet been published.Adequan i.m. polysulfated glycosaminoglycan (PSGAG) solution 100 mg/mLINDICATIONSAdequan i.m. is recommended for the intramuscular treatment of non-infectious degenerative and/or traumatic joint dysfunction and associated lameness of the carpal and hock joints in horses.IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATIONThere are no known contraindications to the use of intramuscular Polysulfated Glycosaminoglycan (PSGAG). Studies have not been conducted to establish safety in breeding horses. WARNING: Do not use in horses intended for human consumption. Not for use in humans. Keep this and all medications out of the reach of children. CAUTION: Federal law restricts this drug to use by or on the order of a licensed veterinarian. For additional safety information, please see full prescribing information at adequan.com.

On Feb. 23, a 5-year-old Thoroughbred gelding in Oakland County, Michigan, tested positive for strangles. The horse developed clinical signs on Feb. 18, including fever, facial swelling, and a draining tract. Three 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.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.

Three horses at a farm in Laramie County, Wyoming, have tested positive for equine influenza. No additional information is currently available.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 Equine InfluenzaEquine influenzais a highly contagious respiratory disease that infects horses, ponies, and other equids, such as donkeys, mules, and zebras. The virus that causes it is spread via saliva and respiratory secretions from infected horses. Horses are commonly exposed via horse-to-horse contact; aerosol transmission from coughing and sneezing; and contact with humans contaminated hands, shoes, or clothes or contaminated tack, buckets, or other equipment.Clinical signs of equine influenza infection can include a high fever (up to 106F); a dry, hacking cough; depression; weakness; anorexia; serous (watery) nasal discharge; and slightly enlarged lymph nodes. Consider monitoring your horses health at shows by taking his temperature daily, which can help you pick up on signs of infection early and take appropriate measures to reduce disease spread.Vaccinationis an important and inexpensive way to protect your horse. US Equestrian requires proof that horses have had an equine influenza vaccination within the six months prior to attending organization-sanctioned competitions or events. Your veterinarian can help you determine what other vaccines your horse might benefit from.In addition to vaccinating, following strictbiosecurity protocolscan help reduce your horses chance of infection and disease. Such measures include quarantining new equine arrivals at barns, disinfecting buckets and equipment, and preventing nose-to-nose contact between horses.

Two horses in Texas have tested positive for equine infectious anemia (EIA). In Austin County, one horse tested positive and was euthanized; the facility was quarantined on Jan. 27. In Wichita County, one horse tested positive and was quarantined on Jan. 29.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 EIAEquine infectious anemiais a viral disease that attacks horses immune systems. The virus is transmitted through the exchange of body fluids from an infected to an uninfected animal, often by blood-feeding insects such as horseflies. It can also be transmitted through the use of blood-contaminated instruments or needles.ACoggins test screens horses blood for antibodiesthat are indicative of the presence of the EIA virus. Most U.S. states require horses to have proof of a negative Coggins test to travel across state lines.Once an animal is infected with EIA, it is infected for life and can be a reservoir for the spread of disease. Not all horses show signs of disease,but those that do can exhibit:Progressive body condition loss;Muscle weakness;Poor stamina;Fever;Depression; andAnemia.EIA has no vaccine and no cure. A horse diagnosed with the disease dies, is euthanized, or must be placed under extremely strict quarantine conditions (at least 200 yards away from unaffected equids) for the rest of his life.