Aspect Explanation Principle Behind Clipping Clipping removes a horse's coat, leading to increased energy expenditure to maintain warmth, which can aid in weight loss. Increased Energy Expenditure Removal of coat in areas like the neck and belly makes horses burn more energy to keep warm, especially effective for horses that are turned out. Enhanced Weight Loss Combining clipping with dietary restrictions and exercise can accelerate weight loss, particularly for obese horses. Improved Insulin Sensitivity Exercise due to increased movement enhances insulin sensitivity, beneficial for horses with equine metabolic syndrome (EMS). Weather and Shelter Considerations Clipping increases vulnerability to cold; adequate shelter is needed to prevent hypothermia. Limited Effectiveness in Stabled Horses Less effective for stabled horses who do not need as much energy to stay warm; minimal movement impacts clipping efficacy. Potential for Over-Cooling Important to avoid over-cooling by leaving some coat intact or using stable rugs to prevent health issues. Dietary Restrictions Limit forage intake to 1.5% of body weight, reduce forage slowly, and eliminate concentrated feeds for effective weight loss. Exercise Engage in activities such as walking uphill and riding uneven terrain to aid in weight management. Monitoring and Body Scoring Regular weight monitoring using a body score chart and weigh-tape ensures healthy and sustainable weight loss. Exploring Clipping for Weight Loss in Horses: Pros and Cons When it comes to managing the weight of horses, particularly those that are overweight or obese, several strategies can be utilized. One surprisingly effective method is clipping. This process, which involves removing some or all of a horse's coat, is gaining attention for its potential role in aiding weight loss. However, understanding both the pros and cons of this method is crucial. Understanding the Principle Behind Clipping for Weight Loss Horses natural coats offer excellent insulation and help them maintain body heat. By clipping the coat, especially during winter, the horse is compelled to expend more energy to stay warm. This increased energy spending can lead to a negative energy balance, which is essential for weight loss initiatives. Pros of Clipping for Weight Loss Increased Energy Expenditure Clipping the coat, particularly in key areas like the neck, chest, and belly can make the horse burn more energy to keep warm. This is even more effective if the horse is turned out, requiring it to move more to maintain warmth. This active movement contributes to increased energy expenditure. Enhanced Weight Loss Practical experiences and some studies suggest that clipping, when combined with other strategies such as dietary restrictions and exercise, can be a useful weight management tool. By necessitating more calorie burning for warmth, clipping can accelerate weight loss, particularly in horses struggling with obesity. Improved Insulin Sensitivity Exercise, which often increases when a clipped horse moves more for warmth, can also enhance insulin sensitivity. This is especially beneficial for horses prone to equine metabolic syndrome (EMS), a condition frequently associated with obesity and insulin resistance. Cons of Clipping for Weight Loss Weather and Shelter Considerations Clipping can leave horses vulnerable to cold weather, especially if they lack adequate shelter. A warm and dry escape is vital, particularly during rainy and windy days, to prevent hypothermia and ensure comfort. Limited Effectiveness in Stabled Horses The strategy is less effective for stabled horses as these animals do not need as much energy to stay warm. Without the necessity to move and generate heat, clipping may not substantially contribute to weight loss efforts. Potential for Over-Cooling While clipping can encourage increased energy expenditure, it is essential not to overdo it. Leaving a protective layer on the back and hindquarters or utilizing stable rugs is recommended to avoid over-cooling, which could lead to health issues. Combining Clipping with Other Weight Loss Strategies Dietary Restrictions Caloric reduction is fundamental in the horse weight loss arena. This often includes limiting forage intake to about 1.5% of the horse's body weight in hay, slowly reducing forage consumption, and eliminating concentrated feeds. Some suggest replacing certain hay portions with straw to further cut down on calorie intake. Exercise Exercise plays an indisputable role in any equine weight loss strategy. Activities could include walking uphill, riding on uneven terrain, or gradually increasing the duration and intensity of routine exercise sessions. These can significantly aid weight loss. Monitoring and Body Scoring Regular monitoring of the horses weight and body condition is essential. Utilizing a body score chart facilitates this assessment, complemented by using a weigh-tape and progress chart to ensure the weight loss remains healthy and sustainable. Conclusion Clipping can be a valuable tool in the weight loss journey of an overweight horse but must be executed with caution and as part of a broader weight management strategy. By understanding the pros and cons, assuring proper care, and combining clipping with dietary restrictions and increased exercise, horse owners can facilitate healthier weight loss in their horses, enhancing overall well-being. Getting the Right Gear If you're considering clipping and other weight management strategies, having the right gear is crucial. Explore our Jodhpur Collection, Horse Riding Boot Collection, and more to ensure both you and your horse remain comfortable and stylish throughout training and daily care.

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Subject Key Points Understanding Seller Non-Response Overwhelmed with Inquiries Lack of Interest Technical Issues Initial Steps to Re-Engage Follow-Up Messages Multiple Communication Channels Set a Timeline Escalating the Issue Open a Dispute Contact Customer Support Consider Alternative Options Preventive Measures Research the Seller Clear Communication Use Secure Payment Methods What to Do When a Seller Stops Responding: Navigating Buyer Anxieties and Solutions In the realm of online transactions, encountering a seller who halts communication can be a particularly daunting experience. This silence can heighten anxieties, leaving buyers feeling lost and unsure of their next move. In this exhaustive guide, well delve into why sellers might become unresponsive and provide practical solutions to overcome this challenge confidently. Understanding the Reasons Behind Non-Response Before launching into remedial actions, it's vital to comprehend why a seller might not reply. Unraveling the cause can often lead to resolution. Overwhelmed with Inquiries Many sellers, especially those operating with small teams or solo, struggle with managing multiple communications, leading to missed or delayed responses. Lack of Interest At times, the seller's interest wanes either because they are assessing other offers or don't wish to progress with the transaction. Technical Issues Technological glitches, such as email filters or system errors on sales platforms, might be the culprit for the lapses in communication. Initial Steps to Re-Engage the Seller If you're faced with radio silence from a seller, here are practical steps to rekindle the conversation: 1. Follow-Up Messages Draft a polite and concise follow-up message. Reintroduce yourself, express your ongoing interest, and inquire if they've encountered difficulties receiving your prior communications. Courtesy is key, so adopt a neutral tone devoid of pressure or aggression. 2. Multiple Communication Channels Explore other communication avenues such as email, phone, texts, or social media. Diversifying channels raises your chances of breaking through the silence. 3. Set a Timeline In your follow-ups, establish a reasonable response deadline. This tacitly underscores the urgency and aids the seller in managing their time effectively. Escalating the Issue Should the seller persist in their non-responsiveness despite your best efforts, escalating the situation may be necessary. 1. Open a Dispute Through platforms such as PayPal, initiate a dispute within 180 days post-payment via the Resolution Centre. This avenue enables direct communication with the seller for possible resolution. If unresolved, escalate to a claim for a formal review. [Source: PayPal Community] 2. Contact Customer Support Utilize platform support teams (e.g., eBay, Fiverr) for mediation or guidance. Support teams can aid significantly in problem resolution and provide vital insights. [Source: Fiverr Community] 3. Consider Alternative Options If resolution proves elusive, consider alternative sellers or listings, particularly if the item is non-unique and readily available elsewhere. [Source: Acquire.com] Preventive Measures Prevention is better than cure. Here are measures to mitigate risks of non-responsive sellers in future transactions: 1. Research the Seller Prior to purchasing, thoroughly review the seller's feedback and history. Look for recent activity and favorable buyer engagement. Consistent non-engagement might be a red flag. 2. Clear Communication Engage in in-depth communication about the listing. Ensure descriptions are comprehensive, leaving no room for ambiguity. A sparse listing might indicate indifference or negligence. 3. Use Secure Payment Methods Utilize platforms like PayPal for secure transactions. This ensures a failsafe mechanism to dispute any mishaps and protect your purchases. Horse Riding Gear That Ensures Comfort For those passionate about equestrian pursuits, having the right gear enhances the experience. Our Jodhpur Collection offers a range of comfortable and stylish options. Conclusion While a silent seller can stir frustrations, the steps outlined above provide a roadmap for resolution. Remember to approach every situation with patience, escalate when necessary, and take preventive measures for future interactions. At Just Horse Riders, were committed to ensuring our customers have a seamless experience in procuring their equestrian needs. Whether you're seeking the perfect horse supplements or stylish riding boots, our collections are curated with both quality and customer satisfaction in mind. Happy riding!

Its full-on fall here in western Pennsylvania. As the leaves change, the air turns crisp, and the puddles in my paddocks take longer to dry up after a storm, here are a few equestrian gear products Ive been loving around the barn and out in the real world this fall. (And lets be real, that line between barn outfit and real world outfit can often blur so a lot of what Im loving these days works in both!)Ariat CruisersSpeaking of blurring that line between barn and civilization, I loved my first pair of Ariat Cruisers so much that I ended up buying a second ($94.95). My original pair (that I promised myself would not become a barn shoe) became a barn shoe, especially for those quick little trips to check on a horse, drop something off, or throw hay in the morning before work.Theyre really comfortable, super-easy to slide on and off, and look cute with jeans, shorts, or even breeches. So I gave in, let the originals follow their calling as barn shoes, and I now own a second pair that is truly reserved for excursions into the real world, including work. A number of styles are currently on sale on Ariats website, and I just snagged two more pairs in new patterns for less than $40 a piece. Shop at Ariat.comKerrits Fall Riding Line and EQL JeansKerrits has always been one of my favorite brands for breeches, and I actually still have a few pairs from the late 1990s in my closet. They hold up. But while Ive been eyeballing their EQL casual clothing line at events like the Kentucky Three-Day Event and Equine Affaire, Id never felt like taking the time to try on any of their casual clothing. But this summer, at a local tack shops annual tent sale, I was the lucky winner of a $250 Kerrits gift certificate. The ladies at The Carousel Horse suggested that I wait for Kerrits fall line to come in, and when it did, I was really impressed. Kerrits has maintained their signature style while introducing contemporary colors and patterns. And their high-tech fabrics are both warm and breathable without impeding movement necessary around here as the weather gets cold and we have to layer up.I went home with their Bits of Plaid Quilted Vest($109), which Im hoping to wear to work a few times before it becomes barn-wear, and a super-soft and warm On Course Quarter Zip Fleece Tech Top ($74) that will be perfect for teaching and riding this fall and winter.Then, The Carousel Horse ladies mentioned Kerrits new EQL jeans, and said that there were a few styles that had come in that even they hadnt tried yet. I struggle with pants fit (my butt is a size bigger than my waist) but I ended up really liking the In-Motion Bootcut Jean ($99) with a raw hem. The jeans are a little lighter weight with more stretch than what I normally wear, but theyre really comfortable and flattering, and the detailing at the bottom of each leg is a little something different. These have become my go-to Friday denim-day jeans for work this fall. Shop at Kerrits.comMuck BootsAs farm owners, my husband and I have a rather large boot collection. I have boots for riding, boots for barn chores, and boots that can do both. My husband is usually in some kind of work boot, preferring something he can slip on and wear comfortably all day.Weve always been Muck fans for their durability and comfort, but two additions to their current lineup have been pleasant surprises.My husband has been really liking Mucks Mens Western Chore Mid Boot ($140), with a similar rubber foot and neoprene top to Mucks classic style, but with a much slimmer, western boot profile. The square toe and reinforced heel makes this a boot that can easily convert from barn chores to riding, unlike Mucks traditional work boots which dont safely fit into stirrups. My husband, who is not often found on any of our horses, still prefers this more streamlined fit just for working around the farm. He says they feel more secure in the heel and less bulky than traditional Mucks. Last weekend, when the majority of his day was spent repairing things that the horses had broken, he said his feet were comfortable and cool in these boots all day long.And since our temps have dropped, Ive been slipping on Mucks Outscape Max Ankle Boots ($135) every morning before work to take care of the horses. These boots are great. They slide on and off hands-free, a necessity when Im rushing out the door carrying everything but the kitchen sink. The sole is really rugged and grippy, which I appreciate when Im leading horses out to their pastures in the dark, especially when its been rainy and the ground is soft and Im running late, dressed in work clothes. And with a footbed that is incredibly light and comfortable, this is another Muck boot that could easily be worn all day long. (Though I toss mine in the trunk after chores on the way to work!)Shop at MuckBootCompany.comDapplebay Riding TopWhen an ad for Dapplebays riding top in a French toile de Jouy pattern ($58) appeared on my social media, I visited the website and contemplated the shirt. While Id found myself on Dapplebays site a few times before, Id never committed to a purchase (you know, the whole mental game of do I need this, or do I want this?). But something about this classic blue and white pastoral pattern made my want win over, and I completed my order. I am usually an end-of-season sale shopper and rarely pay full price for something that I dont need, but I loved the look of this pattern and was curious about the quality.When it arrived, I was more than pleased: the fabric is buttery soft; the colors are beautiful and the pattern crisp. Reviews said that this particular shirt tended to run small, so I ordered one size up and the fit was perfect. I was so in love with the design that I went back for the matching saddle pad, too. The shirt is currently sold out, but you can ask to be notified when its back in stock.Shop at Dapplebay.comHay Chix NetsNow that were back on daytime turnout in western Pennsylvania, my horses are spending a little more time in their stalls, and Im so grateful for my HayChix Free Up Feeder hay nets (starting at $110). The large majority of my equines are really easy keepers, but Im a firm believer in free-choice hay (despite my Fjord occasionally looking like an overstuffed sausage). I was also so sick of waste watching my 30+ gelding pull his expensive, third-cut hay into the middle of his stall and pee all over it made me want to cry. So when we built our barn, I splurged on Hay Chix nets and swear that theyve paid for themselves several times over in just two years. I spent the extra $30 per stall on the wider opening (24 x 24) and am glad I did; between the larger frame and the really easy to use hardware, I can open and close the frame one-handed and never have to set hay on the floor.Hay Chix advertises that you can open and fill each in less than thirty seconds, and theyre not lying. And for the MacGyvers in your barn who will figure out that if they pop the net hard enough from the bottom with their noggins to undo the latch themselves, theres a pin you can put in to prevent them opening it (Im looking at you, Waffles). We fill the nets at night, and most of my crew still has hay in their nets in the morning which makes both my anxious horse-mom mind and wallet feel good! Shop on HayChix.comWith these fall equestrian gear picks, youre sure to be set for barn chores and riding this season. Embrace the beauty of fall while staying comfortable and chic, whether youre in the saddle or just out enjoying the crisp air.This fall equestrian gear list is a web exclusive for Horse Illustratedmagazine.Click here to subscribe!The post Fall Equestrian Gear Round-Up appeared first on Horse Illustrated Magazine.

Colder temperatures might mean unwanted weight loss for hard keepers. | Photos.comWith winter approaching quickly, its time to prepare hard keepers for colder temperatures to prevent unwanted weight loss. Providing additional energy is the best way to help get these horses through the colder season.Why do Horses Lose Weight Seasonally?It is common for many horses to experience seasonal weight loss during the colder winter months for various reasons, says Carey Williams, PhD, a professor and equine extension specialist specializing in equine nutrition for over 20 years based at Rutgers University, in New Jersey. This can be particularly challenging when managing hard keepers.The two main culprits responsible for cold weather-induced weight loss are the dietary change from grass pasture to hay and horses increased energy expenditure to stay warm in cold climates.Like humans, horses are warm-blooded animals, and their internal body temperature stays within narrow limits, or the thermoneutral zone. When their core temperature drops below the lower critical temperature (LCT), horses must produce more heat, such as through shivering, to keep their core temperature stable. They do this by increasing their metabolic heat production.If it is colder, then horses need more calories/energy to maintain body temperature and might need to eat more, says Shannon Pratt-Phillips, PhD, professor of equine nutrition and physiology in the Department of Animal Science at North Carolina State University, in Raleigh. Of course, if they arent eating enough, they would start to lose weight. Therefore, horse owners should remain vigilant and closely monitor hard keepers body condition and weight, which can be challenging when horses have winter coats.Feed High-Quality Forage to the Hard KeeperFor the increase in energy usage in cold weather, the rule of thumb is a 2% increase in energy requirement for every one degree below 18 degrees Fahrenheit (note: horses can sustain their thermoneutral zone temperature when the ambient temperature is 18-59 degrees F), Williams says. Typically, that equates to about 2-4 pounds of extra hay for an average horse. Horses with higher energy demands, such as growing or working individuals, pregnant or lactating mares, and older horses, need even more calories during the colder months.Generally, forage (grass or hay, but for this discussion, hay) is the ideal fuel to help horses keep their core temperature within the thermoneutral zone. Hay is high in fiber, so it has to be fermented in the horses large intestine by microbes to produce volatile fatty acids that the horse can use for energy, says Pratt-Phillips. Fermentation also produces heat, which the horse can utilize to stay warm.Therefore, providing good-quality forage with higher fiber content can help hard keepers produce more heat.Consider Preserved Forages for Hard KeepersIn the winter, horses might get a different or shorter turnout time, and pasture quality may be lower in most areas of the U.S., says Pratt-Phillips. Therefore, the importance of hay/preserved forages usually becomes more significant.Both Williams and Pratt-Phillips recommend adding bagged forage, such as chopped hay (aka chaff), hay cubes, or hay pellets (i.e., alfalfa, timothy) to your horses diet during cold weather. Other alternative fiber sources, including soaked beet pulp shreds, can be fed as a supplement to your horses regular hay and can enhance the overall feed quality, particularly in areas where good-quality forage is limited.At all times, but especially when feeding dried forage, it is important to ensure that fresh, clean water is always available to your horse to help them maintain an appropriate hydration status.The manufacturers label on cubed or pelleted forage also includes a guaranteed nutrient analysis, which allows you to know exactly what youre feeding your hard keeper.Add Fat Supplements, Such as Rice Bran, to Hard Keepers DietsFor some hard keepers, feeding about 2-4 lbs more of a good-quality hay/forage during colder temperatures might be all they need, Williams says. If horses cannot maintain their weight with the additional forage, she suggests adding 1-2 pounds of rice bran to their daily diet. Rice bran is an excellent supplement to hay, she adds, particularly for horses who do not eat enough hay and need an additional energy source (i.e., senior horses).Rice bran is not only high in fat and has rapidly fermentable fiber, which will both help the hard keepers energy requirement, but it also is very palatable and can be found in pretty much any feed store, Williams says. Rice bran will help the horse maintain body condition and weight, and, contrary to corn, does not make the horse hyperactive or overly energetic because of its lower sugar and starch content. However, because rice bran is rapidly digested in the small intestine, she explains, it does not provide the same heating qualities as forage does with its large-intestine fermentation process.Balancing Vitamin and Mineral Intake in the Hard Keeper in WinterKeep in mind that lower-quality hay during the winter might be lacking in some nutrients, particularly vitamins and minerals. While pasture is rich in vitaminE and beta carotene (the precursor to vitamin A), hay vitamin levels will start to decrease over time, potentially becoming deficientafter a few months of storage, says Pratt-Phillips. Therefore, horses would need to be supplemented with some of these vitamins.She and Williams recommend adding a ration balancer or a vitamin and mineral supplement to your horses daily ration to counteract this.Balancer pellets are nice because horses can still be on an all-forage diet but have balancers added at about 1 pound per day (depending on their weight and manufacturer recommendations), Williams explains. These pellets are very low in calories but high in concentrated protein, vitamins, and minerals that balance out poor-quality forage nicely.Other Essential Considerations for Feeding Hard KeepersIt is important to look at other factors, such as age and management practices, before changing any hard keepers diet, Williams says.Older horses typically struggle to maintain weight more than their younger counterparts because thermoregulatory capacity decreases with age. Also with progressing age, an older horses ability to chew and digest long-stem forage could also be compromised. These horses might benefit from adding fat sources such as rice bran to their diet.Blanketing hard keepers in very cold weather or when its both humid and cold, and providing water and windproof shelter can reduce the amount of energy horses need to maintain their core body temperature, Williams says. Especially if a horse is clipped in the colder months, it will take a lot more care on your part to help them thermoregulate with blankets and/or shelter. Therefore, owners should weigh the pros and cons before clipping a hard keeper in cold weather.Take-Home MessageOffering hard keepers extra sources of good-quality forage, either as high-quality hay, hay cubes, or pellets, can help horses maintain their core temperature through hindgut fermentation. Owners might consider adding fat to hard keepers diet, for instance, in the form of rice bran. Blankets and access to shelters can help horses stay warm and burn fewer calories in frigid environments but, no matter the season, all horses should always have access to clean water.The post Preparing Hard-Keeping Horses for Cold Weather appeared first on The Horse.

Horse Sport Ireland (HSI) would like to update and address the delays customers are currently experiencing with processing of applications through the Horse Source system. We appreciate the frustrations of breeders regarding the extended periods processing registrations and sincerely apologise to all customers affected by these delays. HSI also want to assure them that we are doing our utmost to rectify the situation, clear the backlog and reduce the current waiting times. HSI can provide the following update regarding the timelines of applications for registrations, as well as Change of Ownerships, Naming and Endorsements: For pedigree registrations: Processing Timeframe: Once we receive your completed marking chart and DNA samples, by post, processing generally takes 8 to 12 weeks. However, during high-application periods, it may extend beyond this range. Factors Influencing Processing Time: Application Volume: High volumes may extend processing times. Incomplete Information: Please ensure all required details are provided; missing []

Key Point Details Dragonfly Decoys for Fly Control Innovative, natural method inspired by dragonflies' predatory nature on flies. Science Behind Decoys Simulates natural predators to deter flies through fear-based deterrence. DIY Methods Can be made using household items like plastic spoons and markers. Commercial Options Products like Dragonfly Wingman are easy to attach to various surfaces. Positive Outcomes Some users experience a significant reduction in fly bites. Mixed Feedback Reports of decoy durability issues and varying effectiveness. Positive User Reactions Praised for being eco-friendly, non-invasive, and cost-effective. Negative User Reactions Criticism over durability and limited impact on flies. Conclusion Interesting option with potential, but requires personal experimentation. Exploring the Efficacy and Reactions to Using Dragonfly Decoys for Fly Control in HorsesFor horse enthusiasts, dealing with pesky flies is an unwelcome part of the equestrian experience. Traditional fly control methods can be costly and not always effective. Enter the fascinating world of dragonfly decoysinnovative, natural, and quite the conversation starter!The Science Behind Dragonfly DecoysDragonflies, with their impressive appetite for flies, loom large in this story. Known for consuming thousands of insects daily, they serve as inspiration for this unique approach to fly control. By simulating their presence, the hope is to exploit the natural fear flies have of these voracious predators.Why Dragonfly Decoys?The concept is rooted in the idea of fear-based deterrence. Flies naturally avoid areas where they sense predators. A cleverly placed dragonfly decoy might trick these insects into steering clear of both horses and their riders.Practical Applications and DIY MethodsWhether you're a budding DIY enthusiast or prefer a neat, commercial solution, options abound for testing dragonfly decoys in your fly control toolkit.DIY Dragonfly DecoysAll you need are a few household items. Crafting your own dragonfly decoy could involve a plastic spoon, markers, and some creativity. Attach these to a hat or a horses bridle, and youre ready to test the waters.Commercial Dragonfly DecoysA handful of commercial options exist too, such as the Dragonfly Wingman. These are designed to withstand the elements and are easy to attach to anything from your bridle to a garden fence.Efficacy of Dragonfly DecoysAre they successful? The jury is mixed, with outcomes varying based on several factors.Positive ExperiencesMany horse owners have enjoyed great success. Videos such as one from Unicorn and Centaur's channel reveal a notable reduction in fly bites during trail rides when decoys are used.Mixed and Negative FeedbackHowever, some users find the results underwhelming. A number of commercial decoys, it turns out, lack durability, breaking easily under pressure. The consensus remains divided over their ultimate effectiveness.User Reactions and FeedbackDiverse and plentiful, user reactions highlight the potential benefits and pitfalls of dragonfly decoys.Positive ReactionsAdvocates of dragonfly decoys praise them as eco-friendly and non-invasive. As a supplementary option for fly protection, they are charmingly simple and inexpensive.Negative ReactionsOn the flip side, detractors focus on durability issues of mass-produced products. Some lament the scant impact on actual fly behavior, calling for improvements in design and materials.ConclusionThere's no shortage of ingenuity in the equestrian world, and dragonfly decoys certainly hold promise, despite their mixed reviews. For those willing to experiment, exploring DIY options might be the optimal way forward.Key TakeawaysDragonflies serve as predator models, in theory promising a natural route to fly reduction.DIY or commercial options exist, though user experiences differ considerably.Durability concerns over commercial models highlight the need for improvement.Overall, dragonfly decoys represent a bold, interesting pursuit in natural fly control methods.In exploring various methods, including practical on-the-ground reports, the position of dragonfly decoys remains intriguing, if uncertain. Tailor your strategy considering holistic equestrian care as much as individual needs, seeking innovation where possible. Dont be afraid to experimentyou might just find a new favorite fly control measure!```html```

It is with great sadness that Stud Farm Zangersheide bids farewell to the 26-year-old Aktion Pur Z, who passed away in Lanaken on Tuesday, November 5th. The gorgeous bay stallion has played a significant role in Judy Ann Melchiors sport career. Even to this day, they remain one of the few horse and rider combinations []The post Aktion Pur Z (1998-2024) appeared first on Breeding News for Sport Horses.

Hoof dissection observations in each of the 4 study groups.Laminitis causes painful inflammation and breakdown of the structures connecting the coffin bone to the hoof capsule in horses feet. In more severe cases the coffin bone can rotate, causing extreme pain and lameness in the horse that might necessitate euthanasia. Researchers have suggested systemic inflammation might be linked to hoof inflammation, leading one team to study the efficacy of a new anti-inflammatory drug in treating laminitis.Horses can develop laminitis rapidly and from multiple causes, but the one common denominator is the development of an inflammatory cascade, said Maimaiti Tuniyazi, doctoral student and research assistant at Jilin Universitys College of Veterinary Medicine, in Changchun, China. Once this inflammatory cascade begins, veterinarians must stop it quickly to reduce the risk of the horses hoof structures degrading, he added. Therefore, Tuniyazi and his team set out to study the efficacy of methylated tirilazad, a novel anti-inflammatory drug that might be beneficial when treating laminitis in horses.Studying Methylated Tirilazads Effect on Horses With LaminitisResearchers studied 20 3-year-old Mongolian horses with no signs of digestive problems that had not been recently exposed to antibiotics, deworming medications, or been transported over long distances within three months of the study. They carefully monitored each horses diet to ensure it was balanced for his or her nutritional needs and offered local forage at 2% of body weight on a dry matter basis. They allowed each horse unrestricted access to water and did not provide any additional dietary supplements.A computer program randomly assigned the horses to four groups: control (no laminitis), laminitis (with no treatment), prophylactic (laminitis with preventive methylated tirilazad administration), and treatment (laminitis with methylated tirilazad treatment).The researchers then induced laminitis in each horse and applied the associated group treatment, closely observing each horses Obel score. The Obel grading system helps veterinarians classify and understand the progression of laminitis in horses during diagnosis and treatment. The researchers humanely euthanized any horses in the laminitis groups with an Obel score of III or greater.In the prophylactic group the researchers administered intravenous (IV) methylated tirilazad for two days prior to inducing laminitis and at the time of induction. In the treatment group they administered IV methylated tirilazad at the first signs of fever or diarrhea (common signs of inflammation) and observable signs of laminitis (such as lameness). The researchers humanely euthanized the horses in each of these groups 72 hours after inducing laminitis to examine the hoof tissues.Implications for Future Laminitis TreatmentHorses treated with methylated tirilazad showed reduced clinical signs of laminitis, such as improved lameness scores and laminar tissue structure. For horses, (methylated tirilazad) offers a promising treatment that can significantly reduce the pain and lameness associated with laminitis, potentially restoring their mobility, said Tuniyazi. For horse owners, it could mean a reduction in the emotional and financial burden of managing a horse with laminitis. Veterinarians would gain a new, effective tool in their arsenal to treat this challenging condition, improving outcomes for patients, and potentially reducing the need for more invasive or costly interventions.Tuniyazi said he and his team believe potential applications for methylated tirilazad might include resolving laminitis episodes more rapidly and treating other conditions where an inflammatory cascade or inflammation and tissue damage are complicating factors. However, he noted that further research is needed to confirm these findings.Take-Home MessageLaminitis can be very painful for horses and challenging and expensive to address. Researchers report that methylated tirilazad might provide an efficacious and cost-effective way for veterinarians to treat this crippling disease. However, they acknowledge they need more long-term research across different populations of horses to fully establish the role this new drug might play in treating laminitis.The study, Methylated tirilazad may mitigate oligofructose-induced laminitis in horses, appeared in Frontiers in Microbiology in September 2024.Editors note: The authors disclosed that Byrock Technologies Ltd., Ireland, provided financial support for the study.

On November 4, a 2-year-old Quarter Horse gelding at a stable in MRC Portneuf, Quebec, tested positive for equine influenza and strangles. The horse developed clinical signs on October 28, including nasal discharge, cough, and fever. He is under quarantine.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.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.Click hereto read common questions and answers about equine influenza.