New statistics released by the British Horse Society today (Thursday 29 January) show that 58 horses were killed on UK roads last year, while the number of horses injured while hacking on the road increased by 12%.The number of riders reporting road rage or abuse has nearly doubled, with 33% stating that they were victims a 43% increase from the previous year.Over 3,100 incidents were logged via the charitys Horse i app and 81% of these were caused by a driver passing too closely or too quickly. These figures are slightly lower than those reported in 2023, when 3,383 incidents were logged and 85% were said to be caused by a driver failing to pass the horse safely.The work that has been done across the equine community and beyond to improve equestrian road safety is hugely commendable and is reflected in these lower figures, said BHS Director of Safety, Alan Hiscox.Equine safety groups, the police, road safety organisations and driving instructor associations, to name just a few, have all come together to invest a great deal of time into raising awareness of the guidance in place for passing horses.We cant, however, ignore the fact that fatalities continue to persist and the number of horse injuries has risen by 12% compared to 2023. With that in mind, our work continues to help keep all horses safe.National statistics 20243,118 road incidents involving horses logged with the BHS58 horses died 97 horses injured80 people injured33% of riders report road rage or abuse81% state incident caused by a driver passing too closely81% state incident caused by a driver passing too quicklyNational statistics 20233,383 road incidents reported66 horses killed86 horses injured3 riders died94 riders injured85% state incidents caused by vehicle passing too close or too quicklyNational statistics 20223,552 road incidents reported68 horses killed125 horses injured139 people injuredFurther action is requiredThe Highway Code was updated in 2022 to state that horses should be passed at no more than 10mph and leaving at least two metres space between the horse and the vehicle. This is the message the BHS shares via its Dead Slow road safety campaign.While we recognise and thank those drivers who do pass horses safely, we are working hard to make sure every road user truly understands just how dangerous passing horses too quickly and too closely can be, added Alan Hiscox.Further action is required to make everyone aware of the Highway Code changes and critically, why its so important to pass with care. Only through working collaboratively and by evidencing that an issue of equestrian safety still remains, can we stop these awful incidents from happening time and time again.Reporting road incidentsThe BHS urges any rider who has been involved in an incident or near miss to share it with police via Operation Snap and to record it via the Horse i app.The more incidents that are recorded, the more we can do to protect and promote the interests of horses on Britains roads, said a statement from the charity.Your Horse advises wearing a camera while riding on the road, so that you have footage you can share with the police when reporting an incident. Having this increases the likelihood of success. It is also important to report incidents on the same day, as there is a short window for police to investigate. Main image The BHSRelated contentHow to use Operation SnapHow to report a road incident to the BHSSolicitor explains what The Highway Code changes mean for horse ridersWhat to look for in a hat cam for horse ridersHow riders can work together to improve road safetyThe post More than one horse killed on UK roads every week and road rage has doubled, new report shows appeared first on Your Horse.

Section Key Points How to Fix a Bad Bowl Cut - Uneven or poorly maintained mane - Leads to discomfort for the horse - Importance of careful grooming Understanding the Problem - Cause: Improper grooming techniques - Aim: Restore natural flow and comfort Nutrition for a Healthy Mane - Balanced diet: biotin, vitamins, minerals - Consider equine supplements for slow growth Grooming Techniques - Detangling with fingers and sprays - Use wide-toothed comb - Avoid scissors, use comb or clipper - Mane pulling for denser manes Braiding for Optimal Mane Management - Reduces breakage and tangling - Use loose braids - Alternate styles and allow breathing Additional Mane Maintenance Tips - Shield from environmental damage - Maintain tool hygiene - Mindful washing with gentle shampoos Enhance the Equestrian Experience - Explore quality gear: Jodhpurs, Boots, Gloves, Socks - Pair mane care with accessories for maximum effect Conclusion - Apply mane management tips - Be patient for the best results - Visit Just Horse Riders for more solutions How to Fix a Bad Bowl Cut: Mane Management Tips for Your Horse For equestrians, a horse's mane is more than just hair; it's a symbol of beauty and health. A bad bowl cut refers to an uneven or poorly maintained mane, often leading to discomfort for your horse. Worry not! We have the tools and tricks to turn that haphazard mane into a majestic waterfall of horsey locks. Understanding the Problem A bad bowl cut frequently arises from improper grooming techniques. Much like human hair, but with more finesse involved, horse manes require careful handling to avoid tangling and breakage. The main aim is to restore the mane's natural flow without compromising your horse's comfort. Nutrition for a Healthy Mane Before you start snipping away, ensure your horse is nourished with a balanced diet. A rich nutrient intake (biotin, vitamins, and minerals) is essential for a strong, luscious mane. Consider incorporating equine supplements if you notice slow growth. Grooming Techniques Detangling Begin by gently untangling knots with your fingers. This method prevents unnecessary breakage, particularly crucial for horses with finer manes. Follow up with detangling sprays to simplify the process, reducing the risk of damage. Once untangled, use a wide-toothed comb to smooth the mane from end to root. Cutting and Trimming Avoid Scissors: Cutting straight can lead to unsightly blunts. Instead, opt for a mane-shortening comb or clipper blade, gently trimming for an even result. For horses with a denser mane, consider mane pullinga technique requiring care to prevent any discomfort. Braiding for Optimal Mane Management Braiding is a savior for maintaining mane health, especially in horses with thinner or slowly growing manes. This method minimizes breakage and tangling. Tips for Braiding 1. Start with loose braids to prevent tension at the roots, ensuring your horse's comfort. 2. Alternate braiding styles over different sessions to avoid stress in specific areas. 3. Remember to occasionally remove braids gently, allowing the mane to breathe and avoid matting complications. Additional Mane Maintenance Tips Shield from Elements: Help maintain mane health by protecting it from environmental damage using lightweight covers or masks. Tool Hygiene: Always ensure grooming tools are thoroughly cleansed to avoid infections. Mindful Washing: Overwashing can strip the mane of natural oils. Use gentle shampoos to retain healthy oil levels. Enhance the Equestrian Experience with Quality Gear Now that you're a pro at managing bowl cuts, why not give your equestrian wardrobe a boost? Check out our delightful Jodhpur Collection, cozy Horse Riding Boot Collection, and stylish Horse Riding Gloves Collection. Complete the look with compatible Horse Riding Socks for ultimate comfort. Conclusion By applying these mane management tips, you can elegantly transition your horse's appearance from quirky to queenly. Ensure to pair mane care with appropriate complimentary accessories for maximum effect. For more innovative solutions and accessories, head over to Just Horse Riders. Remember, patience is key, and your horse's mane will soon be the talk of the stable!```html```

As the proud owners of Whispery Pines Percherons in Kingsville, Ohio, Sam and Kellie Rettinger have opened their hearts wide to take on the joys and challenges of caring for their nine majestic black Percheron geldings. They offer carriage and sleigh rides, specialize in horse logging, and travel the United States presenting clinics and exhibiting their Percherons in halter, hitching, and obstacle classes.The Whispery Pines Percherons at Equine Affaire. Photo by Winslow PhotographySam and Kellie have a singular purpose: to introduce and promote the Percheron, demonstrating up close the versatility, grace, and beauty of the gentle giants. Their six-horse hitch and wagon performances have made them fan favorites at Equine Affaire and Road to the Horse. Of course, its a monumental task to bring the Whispery Pines Percherons to a four-day event like Equine Affaire, but Sam and Kellie live for these moments.We want to share our horses with the world and show people how amazing they are, Kellie says.Growing Up With PercheronsPercherons have always been a part of Sams family. My grandfather grew up on a dairy farm with draft horses, Sam says. And in 1976, my grandparents, Dick and Dottie Stasiak, established Whispery Pines Percherons. My grandmother came up with the name.Sam loved being with his grandfatherplowing and logging with the Percherons. Grandpa made me his little sidekick, Sam says. And my grandmother always knew this would be my life; [she] told me Ive got something special with these horses.Photo by Lori SpellmanAt age nine, Sam wanted to play with the Percherons but couldnt harness them without his grandfathers help. Undeterred, Sam installed a pulley in the barn rafters, hoisted the harness up and tied it off, walked the horse underneath, and gently lowered it down onto the horse. Sams fascination with Percherons has never wavered.At Whispery Pines, Its a Family AffairKellie grew up riding Quarter Horses, watched Sam and his grandfather show the Percherons at local fairs, and attended the same high school as Sam.Ive always loved draft horses. I was drawn to them, and loved Sam and his grandfather since I was little, Kellie says.When Sam was about 16, he was with his grandfather at a show when he realized a Percheron was missing. I asked Grandpa where Rex was, Sam recalls. And he said some young blonde took him. I found Kellie running barrels on my horse, and realized this might just work out.Sam and Kellie Rettinger. Photo by Xenophon PhotographyTwenty years later, Sam and Kellie are going stronghappily married and running a multifaceted business. My biggest passion is Kellie and the horses, Sam says.Kellie adds, I get to be with Sam, doing what we love every single day. The biggest challenge is the huge workload. Theres a lot of moving pieces.Whispery Pines Percherons offers carriage rides throughout the year for special occasions, including weddings and funerals. A horse-drawn hearseits an honor to be able to do that, Kellie says.In the winter, Whispery Pines also hosts sleigh rides through the woods to a little log cabin. Kellie also does photoshoots with the Percheronscomplete with unique costumes she creates. This business has taken me in all different directionsways I never would have imaginedbut all to involve the horse, Kellie says.Logging With PercheronsFor over 22 years, Whispery Pines Percherons has specialized in horse logging and harvesting hardwood timber for private landowners in an eco-friendly manner. Sam explains, Logging with horses is the lowest impact you can do to remove timber. Its more of a selective process to regenerate the forest We lay the tree down in the forest, with as minimal damage as possible, and then cut it into 10- or 12-foot pieces. We remove those logs using a two-horse team and only need a 6-foot-wide 4-wheeler trail.Although its possible to pull a log with a single horse, draft horses work best as a team. They have a partner, Sam says. And they can handle their body weight times two. A pair of horses is about 2 tonsor 4,000 poundsso they can handle about 8,000 pounds.Harnessing a draft horse requires strength. The collar alone weighs 30 to 40 pounds; the bigger the horse, the bigger the collar. Sam and Kellie can get a pair of horses tacked up and ready to go in about fifteen minutes if the harnessing tack is already fitted to the horse.Gentle GiantsPercherons are undeniably impressive due to their massive size. Flash, one of the Whispery Pines Percherons, towers at 19.2 hands. Despite their size, Percherons are agile, have high energy, and possess great endurance. Their personality is steady, calm, and easygoing. And their charm is matched by their stunning beauty.We call them the classiest of the draft horses, Sam says. When we bring them to an event and shine them up, they are the coolest looking horse.Photo by Winslow PhotographyBut Percherons are more than just eye candy to horse lovers. The love they have for us and what we do is just outstanding. They have the biggest hearts, Kellie says.I love their passion back to us, Sam says. The respect you put into them you get back from them They are ready for the job before we even ask, whether to plow, spread manure, or travel off-site. They are stepping on our toes saying, Lets go.'The gentle personality of these horses attracts attention wherever they go. They just love people so much, Kellie says.Percherons excel at learning. Usually, if you teach the horse one time, let them think it through, you dont ever have to go back to it, Sam says.Kellie adds, They are so smart. Sometimes, I swear they know what were going to do before we even ask.Carrying On the Whispery Pines LegacySam and Kellies love of horses and respect for one another is the glue to their relationship, as they joyfully carry on the legacy of Sams grandparents.Its really hard work. Theres not a lot of us around that still do this type of family business, Kellie says.These horses are our kids, Sam says.The rewards of bringing the Percherons to the public make all the sacrifices worthwhile. People are just drawn to these horses, Kellie says. When were performing, I look at the crowd and see that one little girl or boy and watch their face light up.Sam adds, When I was a kid, draft horses were a lot more common. They were in every farm or neighborhood, but not anymore. So the fairs and shows we go to allow kids to meet the breed.Whatever your age, its hard not to fall head over heels in love with a Percheron!To learn more about Whispery Pines Percherons, visit whisperypines.com and follow them on Facebook. Then, discover how the Percheron Horse Association of America Education and Charitable Fund supports Percheron clinics and education.This article about Whispery Pines Percherons is a web exclusive for Horse Illustratedmagazine.Click here to subscribe!The post Whispery Pines Percherons: A Family Affair appeared first on Horse Illustrated Magazine.

Should you have or witness an incident involving a horse, you should report it to the British Horse Society (BHS) even if no one is hurt or it is a near miss. The charity collects data on all horse-related incidents, whether they are ridden, driving a carriage or cart, led in-hand or loose.What classes as an incident?The BHS classes an incident as any unplanned event that has:resulted in a rider or handler feeling concerned (e.g. verbal abuse)resulted in a horse reacting in an unsettled way (e.g. excessive noise)the potential to cause injury to a rider, handler or horse even though it may not have at this time (a near miss)already caused injury to a rider, handler or horse (an accident)A road incident could involve:road/off-road usersdogsslippery road surfaceslow-flying aircraftdronesfireworksIf an incident does not fit into one of these categories, it can still be reported using a General Incident Report Form and emailed to the BHS.How to report an incidentIncidents can be reported to the BHS in one of two ways: via its Horse i app (see box below) or using an online form.The Horse i app can be downloaded to your smartphone and allows you to quickly submit details.Since its launch earlier this year, the app has seen a 250% increase in the number of hacking incidents reported.Where to find the Horse i appApple devices: download the app in the App store hereAndroid devices: download the app in the Google Play store hereAlternatively, you can submit an online incident report via the BHS website.To submit a report, you need details of:where the incident occurredwhat the incident involvedthe approximate date and time of the incidentwhether the incident was a near miss or resulted in injury to the person in charge of the horse or the horsewhether you were a witness, in charge of the horse or otherthe status of the horse at the time of the incident (e.g. ridden, led in-hand, long reined, loose, etc.)details of your visibilitydetails of the road, rights of way and any other parties involveddetails on whether the incident was reported elsewhere (e.g. to the police or council) and whether any action was takenyour personal detailsIt is essential that you report every incident. This is the data that the BHS uses in its work to help make the roads safer for horse riders and has led to mounted police patrols in problem areas, where drivers who pass the police horses incorrectly are pulled over and educated using the key messages of the BHSs Dead Slow campaign.Reporting to the policeIt is also imperative that you report any incidents, including road rage and poor driving, to the police viaOperation Snap.Your Horseadvises wearing acamera while riding on the road, so that you have footage you can share with the police when reporting an incident. Having this increases the likelihood of success. It is also important to report incidents on the same day, as there is a short window for police to investigate.Related contentWhat to look for in a hat cam for horse ridersThe Highway Code: a solicitor explains what it means for horse ridersHow riders can work together to improve road safetyRoad rage has nearly doubled and 58 horses killed on UK roads in 2024The post How to report an incident or a near miss when riding a horse on the road to the BHS appeared first on Your Horse.

Scientists are discovering new applications for biologic therapies when treating wounds, ligament injuries, eye issues, and infertility in horsesDr. Gerlinde R. Van de Walle has been studying the use of regenerative therapies to aid in equine wound healing. | Courtesy Baker Institute for Animal HealthOver the past quarter century equine practitioners have increasingly embraced regenerative therapiestechniques that restore, replace, or recreate cells, tissues, or organs to treat or mitigate diseasesuch as stem cells and platelet-rich plasma (PRP). They primarily reach for these therapies in the musculoskeletal arena, with research supporting their use for treating injuries to structures such as the superficial digital flexor tendon.Based on a review of the literature, however, several veterinary research teams believe the benefits of regenerative therapies can translate to tissues beyond tendons, ligaments, and joints. Although limited in numbers, those study results suggest veterinarians can also use regenerative therapies in the reproductive, wound care, and ophthalmologic settings. In this article well summarize a handful of recent studies highlighting the potential use of stem cells and platelets in various equine tissues.MSC Therapy for Suspensory Ligament Branch DesmitisSuspensory ligament branch desmitis (SLBD) is a common injury causing lameness and decreased performance in Thoroughbred racehorses. This type of injury reportedly confers a poor prognosis for future racing, even if mild. Like other soft tissues, so-called healed ligaments are biomechanically inferior to normal, healthy ligaments, leaving them prone to reinjury.This is particularly important in Thoroughbreds, as the fetlock joint experiences marked extension during high-speed exercise, placing the SLB under a high amount of tensile load, says Stefanie Hansen, DVM, MS, assistant professor of large animal surgery at Michigan State Universitys College of Veterinary Medicine, in East Lansing.Because researchers have shown stem cell use might reduce reinjury rates and improve the quality of tendon healing, Hansen and colleagues wanted to know if mesenchymal stem cell (MSC) therapy would have similar benefits in ligament injuries.They retrospectively reviewed data from 69 Thoroughbreds treated with MSCs for SLBD. After diagnosing SLBD with clinical examination and ultrasonography, veterinarians treated all horses with 20 million allogeneic (collected from a horse thats not the patient and stored) umbilical-blood-derived stem cells. Also at the time of diagnosis, they harvested bone marrow for stem cell isolation and expansion from each patient.After initial treatment with allogeneic stem cells, the horses were treated every two to three weeks for a total of three or four times with the autologous (originating from the patient) bone-marrow-derived mesenchymal stem cells (BM-MSCs) in combination with a controlled rehabilitation program. Lameness and ultrasound exams determined when each horse could resume training.Seventy-one percent of the study horses raced following MSC treatment. For the 20 horses that had raced prior to injury, 90% returned to racing, whereas only 63% of horses with no race history raced following MSC therapy. We postulate that this lower percentage of racing after injury in horses with no prior racing experience may be partially related to normal attrition, says Hansen.We unexpectedly found that more severe lesions (Grade III, IV) had a similar prognosis as less severe lesions (Grade I, II), she adds. One possible explanation could be that Grade III and IV lesions were also treated with percutaneous splitting of the ligament in conjunction with MSC therapy.Hansen says this finding gives veterinarians and horse owners some confidence in treating severe injuries and provides hope for the horses future athletic performance.The median length of time to racing after injury was 378 days, with a wide range of 126 days to three years. Thus, owners should therefore still expect a long layup following SLBD even when stem cell therapy is applied, Hansen says.And although the researchers did not record reinjury rates, the average career length of horses that raced following injury was 29.5 months, suggesting treated horses had some racing longevity.The current literature remains unclear on the full benefit of allogeneic stem cells; however, there is evidence of a potential benefit, Hansen says. This allows us to treat the injuries at the time of diagnosis, whereas autologous stem cells must be harvested and cultured prior to being available for treatmentsa process that typically takes two to three weeks, says Hansen.Looking forward, she and her colleagues agree studies directly comparing MSC therapy to rest/rehabilitation alone would yield valuable information about the efficacy of MSCs. However, they note that giving horses R&R without additional therapies is usually not an acceptable option in the racehorse industry using client-owned horses. Despite the inherent limitations associated with a retrospective study such as this, results demonstrated that MSC therapy is a viable treatment option of SLBD in Thoroughbreds, Hansen says. We hope that this study can serve as an initial benchmark for comparison to other treatment optionsExtracellular Vesicles and PRP for EndometritisIn a recently published study Lange-Consiglio et al. evaluated whether they could use amniotic (amnion is the thin inner layer of placental membranes surrounding a fetus) mesenchymal-derived extracellular vesicles (EVs) to prevent persistent post-breeding-induced endometritis. As a leading cause of decreased fertility, this condition also poses important economic implications.Extracellular vesicles are double-layered vesicles that cultured stem cells secrete. They contain lipids, proteins, and genetic material believed to possess immunological and inflammation-modulating properties.In this study the research team collected EVs from the medium of cultured amniotic mesenchymal stromal cells (AMSC-EVs) and combined them with the inseminating dose of spermatozoa prior to routine artificial insemination of eight mares with known susceptibility to this type of endometritis. An additional eight susceptible mares served as controls. Those mares were inseminated without the addition of AMSC-EVs.Compared to the controls, mares receiving AMSC-EV-enriched sperm had significantly reduced neutrophil (a white blood cell type) infiltration, decreased intrauterine fluid accumulation, and altered inflammatory response following insemination. Fertility/pregnancy rates were higher in the AMSC-EV group (87.5%) than the control group (62.4%), but this difference did not reach statistical significance.Study authors said these encouraging results warrant additional study and this treatment could prevent the onset of persistent post-breeding-induced endometritis and avoid the alteration of the inflamed endometrium into fibrotic tissue, which is more susceptible to developing persistent endometritis and resulting in infertility, making it useful for susceptible mares.In a separate study Ghallab et al. (2023) examined how intrauterine administration of freshly prepared PRP affected the reproductive performance of Arabian broodmares. Of the 39 mares studied, 25 (61.5%) were diagnosed with endometritis. All 39 horses underwent uterine lavage on the first three days of estrus, then received 20 IU oxytocin as an ecbolic agent (to induce contractions that help evacuate fluid from the uterus). Nine mares serving as controls did not receive additional treatment, 15 mares received 20 milliliters of autologous PRP via intrauterine infusion six hours after natural breeding, and 15 mares received an intramuscular injection of the antibiotic enrofloxacin once daily for three days after breeding.Endometrial thickness decreased in both the PRP and enrofloxacin groups and was lowest in the PRP group. Pregnancy rates at 30 days post-breeding were highest in the PRP group (70%) compared to the enrofloxacin (60%) and control (22%) groups.The study authors said PRP treatment following uterine lavage and administering ecbolic agents significantly enhances the uterine environment for subsequent successful conception, which might be attributed to PRPs essential growth factors and their effects on injured tissues.They therefore concluded that PRP appears to be an effective, low-cost, safe therapy alternative for modulating abnormal inflammatory edema patterns of endometritis, as well as improving pregnancy rates and reproductive performance in treated mares.Biologics for Wound HealingAlso in 2023, Rebecca Harman, PhD, and others at Cornell University, in Ithaca, New York, reviewed available data on biologic therapies for healing horse wounds. Lead author Gerlinde R. Van de Walle, DVM, PhD, of the Baker Institute for Animal Health at Cornells College of Veterinary Medicine, explains the skin is the bodys largest organ, and treating skin wounds properly is integral for a horses overall health.This is particularly true for wounds affecting the distal (lower) limbs, a location with poor vascularization and oxygenation and little soft tissue, she says. Common complications for wounds in the distal limbs include extensive tissue loss and/or infection of the wounds, resulting in unrewarding treatment outcomes.The idea of using regenerative therapies is interesting because they have potential to simultaneously promote wound healing and reduce infectious burden, she adds.As summarized in the full-length article, in vitro (lab) research supports using peripheral-blood-derived MSCs and their secretome, consisting of bioactive factors MSCs secrete, in wound management.Mechanisms of action of the MSC secretome identified to date include promoting migration of dermal fibroblasts, promoting the formation of new blood vessels, and inhibiting the growth of various bacteria, including Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus, even when present in biofilms, Van de Walle says.Harman adds that a handful of in vivo (in the live horse) studies exploring amnion, stem cells, and PRP have been published with variable yet overall positive results.Results from one study support using equine amnion for bandaging certain distal wounds. In ponies, pinch grafts applied to full-thickness limb wounds were bandaged with amnion covered by an absorbent layer of gauze and elastic adhesive tape. Their median time to healing was significantly shorter (30 days) than that of a control group bandaged with nonadherent dressings covered with gauze and elastic adhesive wrap (39 days).In another study researchers created wounds on nine horses and treated them with either amnion or live yeast covered with a nonadherent bandage. The rate of wound contraction and epithelialization did not differ between the groups; however, exuberant granulation tissue (aka proud flesh) severity was significantly less for amnion-treated wounds. It also took fewer days for wounds treated with amnion to completely heal.Several research groups have explored MSCs in wound management.Injected stem cells appear to be more beneficial than topical applications for wound management, based on study findings.Injected stem cells appear more beneficial than topical application, says Van de Walle. This finding is based on a study that found significantly decreased wound areas when injecting umbilical-cord-blood-derived MSCs in the wound margins versus applying these cells topically embedded in a fibrin gel.Harman et al. also described a study using oral-mucosa-derived MSCs or their secretome mixed in a hyaluronic acid (HA) gel topically applied to surgically induced wounds on the thorax and forelimbs. Both HA mixtures (i.e., with MSCs or the secretome) had a positive effect on healing compared to the untreated control groups and the horses treated with HA alone.Finally, PRP appears to hold great promise for promoting and supporting wound healing. In one of the many studies Harman et al. cite, they relayed data by Pereira et al. (2019), who evaluated various PRP preparations administered topically or injected into surgically created distal limb wounds.Key findings were that healing time was reduced in all PRP groups compared to controls, less granulation tissue was noted in the treatment groups, and the PRP gel had the most positive effects on wound healing, says Van de Walle. Overall, that study concluded that all of the studied PRP preparations positively affected healing and, thus, warrant further exploration.Conjunctival Stem Cells for Immune-Mediated KeratitisImmune-mediated keratitis (IMMK) is a nonulcerative, nonpainful keratitis characterized by various degrees of corneal vascularization and opacification. The condition doesnt typically lead to eye loss but might impair vision due to scarring, secondary infections, and diffuse corneal edema.IMMK is an increasingly diagnosed disease, which generally is well controlled by standard topical eye medication, such as cyclosporine, says Brian Gilger, DVM, MSc, Dipl. ACVO, a professor at North Carolina State Universitys College of Veterinary Medicine, in Raleigh. But in many cases IMMK therapy either quits working or the IMMK is not responsive, leading to the need for new treatments.Therapy is typically long-term and, as many owners have learned firsthand, chronic ophthalmic therapy can be difficult in horses.Because BM-MSCs modulate the immune system by downregulating inflammation, Gilgers research team evaluated the efficacy of these cells for treating IMMK in a series of four horses (Davis et al., 2019).Dr. Brian Gilgers research team has been studying the use of stem cells to treat the equine eye condition immune-mediated keratitis. | Courtesy NC State College of Veterinary MedicineVeterinarians administered autologous subconjunctival BM-MSC injections in all horses every three to four weeks for one to five treatments. Horses were maintained on a standard medical treatment regimen throughout the BM-MSC treatment period.These BM-MSCs are identical to those used in orthopedic applications, Gilger notes. And the injections are made with the horse lightly tranquilized, allowing the horse to return to normal activity within hours of the procedure.Three horses had increased corneal clarity, decreased neovascularization (new blood vessel growth, which can cause vision loss), and reduced surface irregularity. Only one of the treated horses was not responsive to subconjunctival BM-MSC therapy.These experimental results demonstrate the safety and potential efficacy of an innovative solution for IMMK, says Gilger. Subconjunctival autologous BM-MSCs can currently be used in clinical patients. Our current research is focused on determining if the cells themselves migrate to the area of inflammation or if they stay locally and secrete mediators to modulate the immune system. We are also examining the use of MSCs in other diseases, such as equine recurrent uveitis.Future DirectionsMore than 25 years after equine veterinarians started using regenerative therapies, we are still scratching the surface of what they can do. Considering the power these therapies pack, they certainly warrant funding for additional well-designed and -controlled in vitro and in vivo studies. The many avenues that need to be explored include delivery methods and ways to produce the various therapeutic products. Another exciting avenue of regenerative therapies is their potential as an adjunct or replacement for antibiotics, says Van de Walle. Antibiotic overuse can lead to antimicrobial resistancea potential health threat to humans and animals. The prospective of promoting tissue healing while also fighting bacterial infections is promising, particularly in wound management.

29.01.2025 Fasten your seatbelts and brace for impact! The Istanbul Warriors powered by Carpe Diem Equestrian Team have entered the 2025 GCL arena with a bold new look and an electrifying roster as the second team of 2025 is announced with Henrik von Eckermann & Simon Delestre joining! The 2025 season sees the Warriors make some of the biggest moves in GCL history, securing top-tier talent...

Signs as subtle as standing quietly in the barn, refusing to eat hay or socialize with herdmates, can point to internal illness. | Photo: iStockI walked out to check on my two horses about an hour before sunset. Solstice was in the paddock, eating hay, snorting contentedly, and swishing his tail. When I walked up to the fence, he perked his ears and looked at me with bright, cheerful eyes.But Sabrina stood quietly in the run-in shed. She saw me approach, poked her head out, blinked, and sighed. She ambled out of the barn toward me, put her head over the fence, and waited for me to stroke her face.Wait. She wanted her face stroked? Sabrina was not well.As much as Solstice loves to be cuddled like a golden retriever puppy, his dam, Sabrina, acts like she has too much dignity for public displays of affection. Shed rather be chasing Solstice from every hay pile and pinning her ears when he tries to steal a bite. The last thing shed do is hang out in the barn watching him eat her hay and then come to me for a scratch on the head.Two hours later Sabrina was on the ground, curling her lip and groaning. Id already called her veterinarian, who determined from my description of her symptoms that she was colicking. Fortunately, with my vets help, Sabrinas colic resolved within a few hours.Horses can give us plenty of cues when theyre dealing with early illness. The problem is they dont; horses dont like to show that theyre sick.Theyre a prey species, so hiding any evidence of illness is a survival technique, says Elizabeth Davis, DVM, PhD, Dipl. ACVIM, associate dean of clinical programs, professor, and head of the department of clinical sciences at Kansas State Universitys Veterinary Health Center, in Manhattan.But they do give subtle signs, like Sabrinas uncharacteristic affection or her standing quietly in the barn or not eating hay. To help you recognize them and intervene accordingly, weve put together this 10-point list of warning signs.1. Diminished or absent appetiteHas your horse suddenly become picky about or even completely uninterested in his food? Thats a significant sign of brewing illness, our sources say. A change in appetite, whether for grain or hay or both, is a big indicator to me that something isnt quite right, says Davis. Whereas he used to take 15 minutes to clean up his bucket of concentrates, now it might take 45 minutes with some breaks to walk around a bit. Or he wont eat hay as vigorously and will get picky about it. Appetite changes could indicate gastrointestinal upsets such as colic. In fact, waning interest in food can signal a wide variety of internal illnesses beyond the GI system, says Kari Bevevino, DVM, of Roaring Fork Equine Medical Center in Glenwood Springs, Colorado.This is among the most important signs of disease in various systems of the body, she says. 2. DiarrheaAny change in poop production is worth monitoring. But diarrhea, in particular, deserves special attention, says Bevevino. Diarrhea can go from not-too-bad to very bad in a very short period of time, and early intervention is beneficial to both the horse and the veterinarian treating him, she says.An infectious diseasewhich can cause severe illness or death and can also spread to other horsesis the most alarming possible cause, Bevevino says. Salmonella and Clostridium bacteria, for instance, cause diarrhea-related infections with varying levels of clinical signs. Some horses remain bright and alert while others develop very severe disease, she says. Rapid treatment can ease discomfort, improve chances for recovery, and help the veterinarian and horse owner control disease spread.Other causes of diarrhea include sand accumulation in the colon, inflammatory bowel disease, and, less commonly, cancer, she adds. Regardless of the cause, diarrhea can lead to rapid dehydration and electrolyte losses, sometimes requiring pretty intensive therapy, Bevevino says.3. Lethargy, uncharacteristic calm or inactivity, and separation from the groupA horse thats lethargic and stays separate from the group might be shoing early signs of sickness. | Photo: iStockHorses should maintain a consistent activity level and keep up with the herd, our sources say. A sick horse might stand off by himself and stay quiet, Bevevino says. By quiet, I mean hell hang his head a little lower, hold his ears a little less perked up than usual, and not have his eyes quite as wide and bright as usual.You might also notice subtle lethargy, adds Davis. Under saddle he might need a little extra encouragement to get going, and he might run out of gas a little sooner, she says. Or the pasture pet suddenly isnt keeping up with the herdmates.4. Unusual BehaviorWhen caregivers pay attention to their horses and observe whats normal for each, theyll pick up more easily on whats not normal, says Davis. There are certainly variations on an individual basis, so its important for people to see the horses at least a couple of times a day to get to know them, she says.Casual observers might miss the subtle red flags. For example, the very social horse thats normally looking in your pockets for a treat is now standing back with his head down, she says. If youre really in tune, youll know when theyre telling you that somethings off. 5. FeverBody temperature is an objective measurementmeaning it has a numerical valuebut for it to have significance, you must recognize when to take it.You usually wouldnt know a horse has a fever just by looking at him or even touching him, Davis says. Sometimes you can see subtle signs, like patchy sweating or faster-than-usual breathing, but those dont always occur.Keep a digital thermometerone from any drugstore will doon hand, and learn to perform a rectal temperature check, Bevevino says. If the temperature is above 101.5 degrees Fahrenheit in an adult horse, chances are youve got a problem. Know that environmental factors such as extreme heat, however, could push the critical temperature limit up to 102 degrees. 6. Other altered vital signsIn addition to body temperature, uncharacteristic respiratory rate and heart rate could indicate impending illness, Bevevino says. You can use a stethoscope to take these measurements, but its not necessary. Count the number of breaths (with your ear up to the horses nose or chest) in 15 seconds, and multiply that by four to get the rate per minute, she says. Most healthy horses at rest should have a rate below 20 to 24 breaths per minute. You can take the horses pulse along certain blood vessels, such as those in the pastern or under the jaw. Count the number of beats you feel in 60 seconds, and compare that to the healthy averagearound 28 to 44 beats per minute in a resting adult horse.Keep in mind, though, that individual horses vitals vary, so familiarize yourself with whats normal for your horse when hes healthy. 7. Weight loss and change in body conditionIllness can take its toll on a body, causing gradually visible signs, say our sources. With an underlying illness it can get easier to see the ribs, Davis says. That could be true weight loss, or it could be lost muscle mass, especially over the topline, giving the appearance of weight loss.This kind of muscle atrophy coincides with illness primarily due to protein metabolism issues, she explains. Because these appear over time, they might be more difficult for owners to detect because they see the horse regularly, says Bevevino. Soliciting an outsiders view can help, but an even more useful tool is photography. One of the best monitoring devices we have is the camera in our phones, she says. Take regular photos from the same angle and lighting to keep track of your horses changes in body condition. 8. Change in coat qualityCoat issues are usually easier to detect in spring and summer, when horses should shed out well and have slick, shiny coats, says Davis. But problems can be visible in the fall and winter, too. Regardless of season, if the coat looks a little rough or dull, or if theres hair loss or thinning compared to previous years, those are signs that somethings not quite right, she says. Metabolic disorders such as pituitary pars intermedia dysfunction (formerly known as equine Cushings disease) can cause coat problemsoften a lack of shedding and elongated (guard) hairs, as well as patchiness or other unusual patterns. Dont ignore any coat issues, because they can be related to a variety of internal illnesses. Modifications in the coat are a huge sign for me, Davis says. Because hair quality is related to nutritional status, coat changes are likely to reflect changes in appetite or nutrient absorption ability.Gastric ulcers are a common culprit for poor coat quality, she says. Theyre just not getting the nutrients they need, and their overall health status declines because of those ulcers.9. Change in bowel habitsFecal character, consistency, and overall output should remain fairly constant, says Davis. If their diet is consistent, they should be passing the same type and amount of material every day, she says. Be observant when cleaning the stall or walking around the paddock. If you dont find any feces in the stall, thats not normal and could suggest an impaction, she says. But if things are moving too quickly, causing frequent or soft feces, that could mean a disruption in the gastrointestinal tracts relatively fragile microflora.Short-lived changes might be normal, resulting from stressful events such as separation from other horses or transport. But changes that last hours or days could represent parasite burdens, reactions to antibiotics, or other gastrointestinal issues. In severe episodes horses bodies might absorb bacterial byproducts in the intestines and develop a serious condition called endotoxemia, which often requires management using intravenous fluids and anti-inflammatories, Davis says. 10. A gut feeling somethings wrongSometimes your intuition is the earliest indication of illness. You know your horse, and something is telling you hes feeling off. Even if the subtle changes are difficult to describe, our sources say these observations are important to report to veterinarians. Thats because, for all their scientific knowledge, they dont usually know your horse as well as you do.If youre worried, Im worried, Bevevino says. Horses are tough and tend to mask the severity of their disease, but a lot of times they cant fool a really in-tune handler. Testing and TreatmentSubtle signs of illness dont usually point to specific diseases. Your horse might be signaling that he has any of a number of conditions ranging from liver disease to infection, pneumonia to colic, because so many of these cause similar early signs. Instead of waiting for more obvious issues, call your veterinarian. If the condition seems to be progressing slowly, it may be okay to schedule an appointment for in a few days time, says Bevevino. But if the signs seem acute (sudden in onset) or progress rapidly, your vet should probably come immediately, because even early signs can mean serious issues and, of course, early treatment is always preferred.Your vet might not know what he or she is treating initially, but a thorough examination will help: palpating different body parts, including the limbs, listening to heart, lung, and bowel sounds, checking mucous membranes, and assessing hydration status, always looking for signs of discomfort and inflammation, says Davis. A general blood test can reveal abnormal blood parameters that might point to the affected body system. A urinalysis might provide critical information about kidney function and metabolism. Ultrasound allows the veterinarian to check vital organs such as the lungs and liver, says Bevevino. If the horse is hospitalized, high-quality radiography can allow the vet to check for issues such as gastrointestinal and pulmonary (lung) diseases. If your veterinarian suspects an infectious cause, he or she might run a polymerase chain reaction (PCR) test on the appropriate samplewhether blood, feces, tracheal wash, nasal dischargeto see if the DNA for the agent is present and target treatment, she says. To check for inflammation, your veterinarian might test for protein markers of acute inflammation, such as serum amyloid A (SAA). We might do the test one day and then repeat it in a day or two, Bevevino says. That way, we can determine if inflammation is a component of the disease and, if present, is it improving, staying the same, or worsening? Its something we have in our arsenal to not only evaluate but monitor response or lack of response to treatment. Specific treatment depends on what diagnostic testing reveals, our sources say. But in the meantime, most horses benefit from supportive care such as intravenous fluids, anti-inflammatories, and stabling in a calm, comfortable environment. Take-Home MessageRecognizing illness in its earliest phases can lead to targeted treatment that can hasten healing and increase a horses chances of recovery. By learning to pick up on the earliest signs of disease, handlers can get their horses the intervention they need faster.

Forage Alternative Benefits Hay Cubes Substitute for traditional hay with long-stem fiber; beneficial during low hay supply. Pelleted Feeds and Complete Feeds Provide necessary nutrients but need combination with other fiber sources for digestive health. Beet Pulp Highly digestible fiber; good for horses with metabolic conditions. Dengie Forages High fiber, low starch; suitable for partial or complete forage replacement. Dehydrated Alfalfa and Soy Hulls Highly digestible; complements other fiber sources, ideal during forage shortages. Horses with Metabolic Issues Require low sugar/starch diet; suitable options include hay cubes and low-starch pelleted feeds. Horses with Dental Problems Soaked forage substitutes, like Dengie Grass Pellets, offer easier chewing and digestion. Horses with Energy Requirements Need energy-dense feeds low in hydrolyzable carbohydrates to meet energy demands. The Best Forage Alternatives for Horses with Dietary Restrictions Introduction For many horse owners, ensuring their equine companions receive the right nutrition is a top priority. This becomes even more important when dealing with horses facing dietary restrictions. In this blog, we will discuss the best forage alternatives, offering insights to help you maintain your horse's optimal health and well-being. Whether your horse has digestive issues, dental problems, or metabolic conditions, the right forage choice can make all the difference. Understanding Forage and Its Importance Forage forms the foundation of a horse's diet, providing fiber, vitamins, and minerals. Horses are naturally designed to consume high-fiber, low-starch diets as continuous grazers. However, natural forage isn't always available or suitable, necessitating alternative options. Understanding these alternatives ensures your horse gets essential nutrients without compromising their health. Alternatives to Traditional Forage Hay Cubes Hay cubes are an excellent substitute for traditional hay, particularly when they feature long-stem fiber crucial for intestinal health. They can effectively supplement or replace conventional hay, beneficial during periods of low supply. [Source] Pelleted Feeds and Complete Feeds While not a direct replacement for long-stem fiber, pelleted and complete feeds can offer necessary nutrients. It's crucial to combine them with other fiber sources to maintain digestive health. [Source] Beet Pulp A highly digestible fiber source, beet pulp can effectively boost your horse's fiber intake without introducing excess starch. This makes it a preferable choice for horses dealing with metabolic conditions. [Source] Dengie Forages Products like Alfa-A Original, Hi-Fi Senior, and Dengie Pure Grass are excellent options as partial or complete forage replacers. These forages are high in fiber and low in starch, suited for horses with dietary limitations. [Source] Dehydrated Alfalfa and Soy Hulls These options are highly digestible and can complement other fiber sources to expand forage rations during shortages. They're ideal for maintaining consistent nutrition when traditional feed becomes unavailable. [Source] Considerations for Horses with Specific Needs Horses with Metabolic Issues Horses suffering from metabolic syndrome or PPID (Cushings disease) require a cautious approach to diet, keeping sugar and starch under 10% to avoid laminitis. Hay cubes or low-starch pelleted feeds can be advantageous. [Source] Horses with Dental Problems For horses with dental issues, soaked forage substitutes such as Dengie Grass Pellets can be a good fit. These are easier for horses to chew and digest, ensuring they receive the necessary nutrients without discomfort. [Source] Horses with Energy Requirements For active horses, additional energy sources might be needed. Incorporate energy-dense feeds low in hydrolyzable carbohydrates to meet your horse's energy demands without inducing metabolic distress. Implementing Forage Alternatives Transitioning to forage alternatives requires a gradual approach to prevent digestive upset. Introduce new feeds over several days, monitoring their nutrient intake closely to ensure balanced nutrition. Consulting an equine nutritionist can provide tailored advice for your horses health needs. Conclusion Selecting the right forage alternatives for horses with dietary restrictions demands careful consideration of their nutritional needs and individual health conditions. By exploring the alternatives available and learning how to integrate them into a balanced diet, horse owners can provide essential care for their horses. Through understanding and action, we can ensure that even horses with dietary restrictions lead healthy and happy lives. Explore our supplements and riding apparel selections to enhance your equestrian journey. For more resources on managing your horse's diet, explore our latest stable rugs and horse fly protection products.

Equine Innovative Medicine is setting a new standard in equine healthcare by introducing the state-of-the-art Asto CT Equina Standing CT Scanner to its suite of diagnostic tools. This groundbreaking technology seamlessly aligns with the practices mission to bridge compassion and science, enhancing the precision, safety, and comfort of equine diagnostics.Designed exclusively for standing equine patients, the Asto CT Equina is the worlds first dual-axis fan-beam CT scanner capable of capturing high-resolution 3D images of both limbs simultaneously, as well as the head and neck region. This innovative approach eliminates the need for general anesthesia, significantly reducing stress and risk for the horse. The rapid imaging process enables swift, accurate diagnoses, empowering veterinarians to develop tailored treatment plans that prioritize both performance and long-term well-being.Draft Gelding receiving a front limb scan. | Asto CTEvery horse we treat is someones beloved companion, partner, or athlete, and their well-being is at the heart of everything we do, said Jodi Chadim, DVM, founder of Equine Innovative Medicine, in Woodinville, Washington. Integrating the Asto CT Equina into our practice is a monumental step forward. This technology allows us to diagnose conditions with exceptional accuracy while prioritizing the comfort and safety of our patients. Its an honor to offer such advanced care to the equine community.The addition of the Asto CT Equina highlights Equine Innovative Medicines dedication to blending traditional veterinary practices with innovative technology and holistic approaches. The practices team of seasoned experts leverages advanced imaging to support the physical and emotional well-being of horses, ensuring their peak performance and long-term health.Our partnership with Equine Innovative Medicine underscores our shared vision for advancing equine healthcare, said David Ergun, PhD, CEO of Asto CT. The Asto CT Equina is a game-changer, and its integration into such a forward-thinking practice will undoubtedly enhance diagnostic precision and treatment outcomes for equine patients.Equine Innovative Medicine continues to set a benchmark for equine healthcare in the region, serving Northwest Washington and beyond. The practice actively collaborates with other veterinary practices and clinics, welcoming referrals from neighboring states, Canada, and beyond for CT scans. By blending state-of-the-art technology with compassionate care, Equine Innovative Medicine meets the unique needs of each horse and their owners.

Horse Sport Maryland (HSM) is thrilled to announce that the Maryland Department of Agriculture (MDA) has awarded it $1,500 from the Maryland Horse Industry Board (MHIB) grant program to help defray the start-up costs of...