A lot of thought and consideration goes into a horse or ponys mane: are they clean, shiny enough, and the correct length? Whether you want to plait it for a competition or smarten up a mane enough for hacking or a riding lesson, the following tricks of the trade from professional groom Amanda Thompson and coach Gemma Porter-Rawlings will help you to give your horse a hairdo to be proud of.Remove the mudIf your horse has come in with half the field on their head, the best place to start is by giving their mane a good brush. A bit of elbow grease works wonders to clear any excess mud and get your horses mane tangle-free.A dandy brush with firm bristles is best suited for this job.Brush the underside of the mane over to the opposite side of the horses neck using quick flicking motions, says Amanda. To finish, brush it all back down, checking for any shavings, straw or mud.Tidy up with a pull or trimBefore you get the shampoo out, its a good idea to thin out your horses mane and remove any stray hairs.I like to pull the hair before washing as the grease makes it easier to get a hold of, says Gemma.There are no strict rules as to how much to pull.Its down to personal preference, adds Gemma. Dressage riders often leave the mane longer (about six inches) to give them the length to roll the mane into plaits, whereas showjumpers prefer it shorter.How to pull a maneSome horses dont like having their manes pulled, even with a solo comb and who can blame them but there are several products on the market to help you keep manes and tails trim and tidy in a kinder way. These remove the need to pull the mane, and so is the preferred method by horses and riders alike.Take a small section of mane, backcomb it to reveal the longest hairs, and wrap these long hairs around your comb.Tug quickly and sharply to pull the hairs out.Brush the mane to remove any tangles.Move on to the next section and repeat.Once complete, run your fingers through the mane to check youve got an even thickness.If you do choose to do it the old-fashioned way of pulling (as described above), do it after exercise when your horses skin is warmer and the pores are more open. This will make it easier for you and they will feel it less.Another thing you can do is apply pressure to the root of the hair, advises Amanda. This helps to desensitise the nerve endings so the horse wont be able to feel you pulling as much.Its a bit like when you pull your own skin tight when plucking your eyebrows.Pulling out a few stray hairs when you notice them should help you keep on top of things, but you may need to do a full pull every couple of months.Consider trimming insteadIf your horse has thin hair, is sensitive, or youre not a fan of pulling manes, you can keep on top of their mane by trimming instead.To trim, apply a similar method as you would when pulling, taking a smaller section and backcombing to reveal the longer hairs and then simply trim these away with scissors. Beware taking too much off with scissors, though, as it wont look natural.If youre planning on cutting your horses mane, do a little bit at a time to avoid it looking too chopped, advises Amanda.Boost circulation with a shampooAfter all that plucking and pulling, your horse might be feeling a bit sore, so soothe their skin with a gentle wash.We like to use shampoo with lavender and camomile in as these have a soothing effect on the skin, explains Gemma. By rubbing in the shampoo, it also gives your horses neck a good massage, helping to circulate the blood and easing any soreness from the pulling.A good scrub can also help to wash away any build-up of grease and get your horses mane gleaming.To boost your shampoos soothing properties, treat your horse by washing them off with warm water. Once all the bubbles are out, dry the horse off with a towel and comb through their mane to get rid of any tangles.Tame that maneTraditionalists say that a horses mane should always fall to the right-hand side of his neck, but it could be that your horses mane has different ideas. Dont worry too much let it lie where it wants to naturally. However,a simple way to train a mane to lie a certain way is to section off the mane with rubber bands and lay them all on one side. If you do this for long enough and regularly enough, it is thought to be effective.You can do this with wet or dry hair and it helps to gently keep the mane in place without pulling your horse about too much and risking making them sore, explains Gemma.How to keep a mane in placeBrush all of your horses mane to the right side of his neck.Split the mane into small sections that are roughly a mane combs width.Wrap an elastic band around each section, roughly a third of the way down.Leave to set in place and remove after an hour or so.Amanda Thompson is an eventing groom and member of the British Grooms Association. Gemma Porter-Rawlings is a BHS Stage 5 Performance Coach in Complete Horsemanship who runs GPR Equestrian Services.Related contentSeven humane mane thinners tried and testedHow to plait a horses mane *Video*Katie Jerram-Hunnable explains how to trim legsUseful brushes for your grooming kitHave you ever heard of a horse grooming vacuum? The post Pro grooms advice for pulling (and generally tidying up) a horses mane appeared first on Your Horse.

The Metropolitan Police is cutting half of its horses and mounted officers in a bid to fill a 260m hole in its budget for the coming year.The London force plans to reduce its mounted section by 69 officers and 10 staff, and as many as 40 of its horses will be retired, redeployed to other forces or suitably rehomed.The Met currently has 93 horses and 120 officers, plus 32 staff, at its sites in Bow, Hammersmith, West Hampstead, Lewisham, Great Scotland Yard, Hyde Park and Imber Court.Five of those sites are scheduled to close. In all, 1,700 jobs will go across the force.Tough choicesA Met spokesperson said: We are prioritising resources and putting more officers on the beat in the busiest parts of London to focus on core policing priorities to protect the public and tackle areas with high crime.Due to our financial constraints, were making tough choices and one of those is to reduce the Mets Mounted Branch. The Met continues to have the largest Mounted Branch in the country, who will focus on policing high crime areas and high-profile public order and ceremonial events.We are beginning formal Trade Union and staff consultations to test this proposal and started communicating internally in August on how this will happen, supporting officers, staff and the horses impacted.High visibility patrolsThe Mets Mounted Branch dates back to 1760, when it was introduced to combat the problem of highwaymen in London.Today, the team takes part in high visibility patrols, escorting the military and the Royal Household in central London, community engagement, crowd control at sporting events, demonstrations, public order events, and state ceremonial occasions such as Trooping the Colour.Main image of the Mets mounted police patrolling at changing of the guard ceremony in front of Buckingham Palace in London ShutterstockRelated contentMounted police volunteers are helping to solve crimes and make the roads saferOperation Snap: how to use it to report a road incident to the policeCollege of Policing updates standard of care, training and deployment for police horses and their handlersMounted police advice for hacking on the roadThe post Met police to lose half its horses and mounted officers due to 260m budget gap appeared first on Your Horse.

Phase Activity Duration Purpose Preparation (Groundwork) Grooming, massage around back muscles 5-10 minutes Relax muscles, stimulate circulation Initial Warm-Up Walking on loose rein 10-15 minutes Increase blood flow, gentle joint flexing Muscle Activation Trotting with posting seat 5 minutes Strengthen and stretch muscles Suppleness & Flexibility Circles, half-circles, figure eights 5-10 minutes Improve balance and suppleness Progression Cantering (optional for fitness) 3 minutes Further muscle activation if horse is fit Rider Warm-Up Rider stretching and mobility exercises Before mounting Improve rider balance and coordination Creating the Perfect Warm-Up Routine for Older Riders and Their Trusty SteedsAs both riders and their horses age, it becomes crucial to adapt their warm-up routines to ensure safety, performance, and overall well-being. A thoughtful warm-up gradually prepares both horse and rider physically and mentally, reducing the risk of injury while enhancing suppleness and focus. Lets dive into how older riders and horses can effectively warm up before hitting the trail or arena.Why is a Warm-Up Important?A warm-up is a must before any ride because it loosens muscles, improves circulation, and mentally prepares the duo for the ride ahead. For older horses and riders, warming up helps combat decreased muscle elasticity and joint stiffness due to age, helping to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable session. Horse & Rider sheds more light on the topic, emphasizing the importance for senior horses (source).Warm-Up Phases for Older Horse and RiderPhase 1: Groundwork PreparationStart with some gentle grooming and massage. This not only helps relax the horse but also stimulates circulation, making it the perfect first step in preparing their muscles. Gently work on back muscles and other key areas for 5-10 minutes.Phase 2: Initial Warm-UpMove on to walking on a loose rein. Begin with 10-15 minutes of easy to moderate walking to enhance blood flow, lubricate joints, and stretch tendons gently. This phase is crucial for the older horse to feel more at ease and ready for the next steps.Phase 3: Muscle ActivationIntroduce trotting with a posting seat for about 5 minutes. This helps strengthen and stretch muscles further while keeping the tempo light and easy. Remember to monitor how your horse is responding and adjust the pace as needed.Incorporating Varied MovementsDuring the warm-up, include circles, half-circles, figure eights, and serpentines to promote flexibility and balance. These exercises are excellent for the horse's suppleness and help to engage both sides of their body evenly. US Pony Club Manual elaborates on these effective exercises (source).Rider Warm-UpRiders, especially older ones, can benefit significantly from undertaking some stretching and mobility exercises. Before mounting, take a few minutes to stretch your arms, legs, and core to improve balance and coordination while riding.Designing the Ideal RoutineSample Warm-Up Routine for Older Rider and HorsePhaseActivityDurationPurposePreparation (Groundwork)Grooming, massage around back muscles5-10 minutesRelax muscles, stimulate circulationInitial Warm-UpWalking on loose rein10-15 minutesIncrease blood flow, gentle joint flexingMuscle ActivationTrotting with posting seat5 minutesStrengthen and stretch musclesSuppleness & FlexibilityCircles, half-circles, figure eights5-10 minutesImprove balance and supplenessProgressionCantering (optional for fitness)3 minutesFurther muscle activation if horse is fitRider Warm-UpRider stretching and mobility exercisesBefore mountingImprove rider balance and coordinationAdjusting for Age and ConditionIts important to consider the horses age and physical condition when tailoring the warm-up. Older horses may need longer warm-ups and should avoid abrupt or high-impact movements early on. Adjust session length and intensity based on the horse's fitness level and any pre-existing health issues.Engage and Enhance the ExperienceMaking Warm-Ups Fun and EngagingJust because its a warm-up doesnt mean it has to be mundane! Use positive reinforcement such as gentle pats or verbal praise to motivate your horse. Incorporating a variety of activities and directions keeps both horse and rider engaged and makes the session more enjoyable. Don't forget, warm-ups can also serve as bonding time, helping to build trust and relaxation.Additional collections like the Jodhpur Collection and Horse Riding Socks Collection ensure both comfort and style during every ride.Invest in High-Quality EquipmentQuality equipment can make a world of difference. Check out collections like Horse Riding Boot Collection, Horse Riding Gloves Collection, and Horse Treats And Gifts for products that will make your riding experience more comfortable and enjoyable.Final ThoughtsNo matter your age or your horses, the right warm-up routine can set the tone for an enjoyable and safe ride. From gentle preparation to engaging exercises, ensuring safety, flexibility, and enjoyment is key. Couple this with Everyday Horse Vitamins & Supplements for overall health and you're set for success. So saddle up securely with our Stable Rugs and Horse Fly Protection, and enjoy every moment you share with your equine partner.```html```

Every year, theres one date in the equestrian calendar we all look forward to, the launch of the LeMieux new colours! Wed say its now tradition: everyone swaps guesses at the yard, hours are spent scrolling through social media for clues, and we all wonder which shades will be our next favourites. When the reveal finally drops, its not just about new gear, its about giving our horses (and ourselves) a fresh look for the season ahead.In the run-up to launch day, the buzz in the tack room grows louder and louder, while online leaks keep us guessing. With every hint that drops, the excitement builds even more. Then, when the big day finally arrives, it feels just like opening a box of treats not only for you but for your horse as well! Suddenly, an array of fresh colours is revealed, ready to be mixed, matched, and proudly shown off.This years line-up, in particular, doesnt disappoint. In fact, it proves that the wait was well worth holding your horses for. So, with anticipation behind us and the new collection in front of us, lets dive in. Read on to discover the brand-new LeMieux colours for autumn and winter 2025 and explore some of our very top picks.Jump to:Meet the LeMieux New ColoursLeMieux JuniperLeMieux RosemaryLeMieux CranberryLeMieux LilacLeMieux DamsonLeMieux Navy/CranberryMeet the LeMieux New ColoursWith so many gorgeous shades in this seasons LeMieux line-up, choosing your next look isnt easy. On one hand, there are soft pastels that feel light and fresh. On the other, rich and deep tones bring elegance and warmth. Yet, no matter the shade, each one adds its own personality to the yard.So, to make your choice a little easier, weve taken a closer look at every colour. Well show you how each one feels, the mood it creates, and what it pairs well with. That way, you can confidently find the match that suits both you and your horse best.LeMieux JuniperJuniper is a rich, dark purple that balances elegance with strength. Deep and velvety, it carries a sense of luxury. Yet, its bold enough to stand out in the arena. At the same time, it remains refined and versatile for everyday schooling. The Classique Womens Base Layer and matching Hat Silk team together for a smart look. Or, mix-and-match across LeMieux latest colours; the Dynamique Jacket in Juniper over a Lilac Halle Top is an easy way to bring a pop of colour to your daySaddlepad Collection:LoirePairs well with:Lilac & NavyShop all JuniperLeMieux RosemaryThink of Rosemary as an earthy, green-toned shade that feels like a breath of fresh pasture air. Its the kind of tone that blends effortlessly with nature, perfect for those early morning hacks or relaxing in turnout. Its also super easy to style, simply throw on a Frances Quarter Zip in Rosemary with both your casual and equestrian outfits. Want to update your training wear? Choose the Philippa Mesh Base Layer, which we know youll feel as good as you look in.Saddlepad Collection:SuedePairs well with:Damson, Black & NavyShop all RosemaryLeMieux CranberryCranberry by LeMieux bring a welcome pop of colour to any grey winter day. Eye-catching, warm, and unmistakably bold, this shade is a must-have for those who want to stand out. Brighten up your horses tack with a Suede Saddlecloth and matching Fly Hood. If youre looking for a little more luxury, why not choose some pieces from LeMieuxs iconic Loire collection.Saddlepad Collection:Suede & LoirePairs well with:NavyShop all CranberryLeMieux LilacMeet Lilac: soft, pretty, and just dreamy enough to make you smile mid-ride. Youre sure to love LeMieuxs cosy Elspeth Hoodie, perfect for lounging around in at home or for days spent around the yard. Whether youre prepping for a show or just enjoying a summers evening ride, Lilac whispers style without saying too much. Complete your collection with the popular range of Flexi Brushes, now available in this luscious tone.Saddlepad Collection: SuedePairs well with:Juniper & NavyShop all LilacLeMieux DamsonDamson is a warm, juicy plum shade with a hint of red running through it, giving it a softer, fruitier feel than deeper purples. Its inviting and rich without feeling heavy, perfect for brightening up autumn and winter rides. For men, LeMieuxs Tee in this colour is a must-have everyday staple. For women, the Isabelle Breeches will be a firm favourite for the transitioning seasons.Saddlepad Collection:LoirePairs well with:Rosemary, Pecan & NavyShop all DamsonLeMieux Navy/CranberryTwo colours so good they just had to go together! Navy and Cranberry are the perfect match for riders who like their look smart with a splash of personality. Navy brings that classic, dependable base polished, professional, and ready for anything while Cranberry adds a burst of warmth and energy. Together, they strike the balance between tradition and fun, making them a great choice for both competition days and casual rides. The Suede Saddlecloth is a piece that will look just the part on any horse, while the Loire Fly Hood is a truly premium design.Saddlepad Collection:Suede & LoirePairs well with:Cranberry & NavyShop all Navy/CranberryAlongside these stand-out shades Rosemary, Juniper, Lilac, Cranberry, Damson, and the Navy/Cranberry combo LeMieux has included a selection of neutral tones designed to mix and match perfectly. So whether you want to turn heads in a bold, rich hue for cross country, or keep things subtle and classic for everyday schooling, theres a wide range of LeMieux new colours to suit every horse, rider, and occasion.You can explore the full range on our website, in our app, or by visiting our Totnes store. Found your favourite? Wed love to see it in action. Make sure you share your new LeMieux look with us on Instagram, Facebook, or TikTok using #RideWithRedpost.Shop all LeMieuxThe post LeMieux New Colours AW25: Your Complete Guide to the Latest Looks first appeared on Redpost Equestrian Blog.

Are you heading to our This Esme Meet & Greet on Saturday the 23rd of August? You could win a Charles Owen This Esme Riding Hat AND Backpack!All you have to do is click the link below and follow the three easy steps to enter!Enter hereTake a look at the Charles Owen This Esme products you could win!Charles Owen This Esme Luna Riding Hat BlackCharles Owen This Esme Luna Riding Hat Midnight NavyShop NowShop NowCharles Owen This Esme Helmet BackpackShop NowTerms and Conditions apply. Entering this competition will automatically add you to our newsletter subscription. Competition ends at 23:45 on Monday the 25th of August and the winner will be contacted via the email address used to enter the competition on Tuesday the 26th of August.The post WIN a Charles Owen This Esme Luna Riding Hat & Backpack first appeared on Redpost Equestrian Blog.

Key Points Details Plan Ahead Create detailed care instructions Stock up on supplies Ensure routine maintenance Choose the Right Caretaker Hire an experienced farm sitter Consider part-time caretakers for low-maintenance horses Temporary boarding at a reputable facility if necessary Emergency Preparedness Create an emergency plan Set financial planning for emergencies Consider Long-Term Plans Care plans and legacy arrangements Explore rehoming options as needed Key Facts Average capacity of care organizations Length of stay in custody for rescue horses Owner commitment to keeping horses for life. Practical Tips Simplify horse living conditions Train your caretaker Maintain regular communication How to Ensure Your Horses are Cared for When You Can't Be There For horse owners, ensuring the well-being of your equine companions when you're away can be a source of anxiety. Horses require consistent care, attention, and a safe environmentfactors that can be challenging to guarantee in your absence. Fortunately, with careful planning and informed decisions, you can ensure your horses remain healthy, comfortable, and happy even when you cannot be there personally. Plan Ahead: Preparation Is Key Before you leave, invest time in preparing your horses environment and documentation: Create Detailed Care Instructions: Provide clear, written directions about feeding schedules, medication, turnout routines, tack preferences, and any behavioral quirks. For instance, some horses may react adversely to certain stimuli, such as a gelding that becomes reactive around delivery trucksinformation that helps caretakers manage stress and avoid accidents[3]. Stock Up on Supplies: Ensure there is an ample quantity of feed, hay, bedding, vitamins, supplements, and any medications your horses require. Routine Maintenance: Check that fencing, water systems, and stalls are secure and functioning properly. Horses accustomed to living outside or having easy access to shelters and water are better positioned to cope independently[2]. Choose the Right Caretaker Selecting who will care for your horse is arguably the most important step. Hire an Experienced Farm Sitter: For owners with multiple horses or complex needs, hiring a qualified horseperson to stay on-site offers peace of mind, ensuring timely and thorough care[1]. This caretaker can manage feeding, watering, stall cleaning, turnout, and emergency handling. Part-Time Caretakers: If your horses are low-maintenance, a skilled friend, neighbor, or experienced horse owner can be arranged to visit twice daily. Ensure they are comfortable with horses and understand your expectations[1]. For longer absences or complicated care needs, temporary boarding at a reputable facility is recommended. Choose a place with knowledgeable staff, suitable facilities, and clear protocols for emergencies. Establish a secondary contact such as a trusted friend or family member within driving distance who can provide backup in case of emergencies or if the primary caretaker becomes unavailable[2]. Inform your veterinarian of your absence, provide the caretakers contact details, and authorize them to seek emergency care if necessary, along with a payment method for veterinary services[1]. Emergency Preparedness Create an Emergency Plan: Leave instructions on what to do in case of a fire, severe weather, sudden illness, or injury. Include local emergency contacts and transport options. Financial Planning: Set spending limits for emergency treatments with your vet to avoid conflicts or delays in care[1]. Consider Long-Term Plans Unexpected circumstances such as illness or death can impact your ability to care for horses in the future. Planning ahead includes: Care Plans and Legacy Arrangements: Some owners prepare detailed care plans or designate trusted organizations to care for their horses if they can no longer do so. Programs like Horse & Halo assist owners in making these arrangements to ensure continued compassionate care[3]. Rehoming Options: Financial constraints or life changes may require alternative solutions. Options include placing horses at layup or retirement farms, donating to therapeutic riding centers or university equestrian programs, or leasing as companion animals. Always research and select reputable facilities or programs to ensure quality care. The need for Everyday Horse Vitamins & Supplements can be significant during these transitions, helping maintain their health and vitality. Key Facts to Support Your Planning Household Capacity: On average, horse rescue or care organizations can care for about 38 horses at a time, highlighting the importance of personal care arrangements before equines need rescue services[4]. Length of Stay in Custody: Horses in sanctuary or rescue care often remain for over 300 days, reflecting the long-term commitment to their welfare if owners cannot maintain care[4]. Owner Commitment: A 2024 survey indicated 90% of horse owners intend to keep their horses for life, underscoring the value of long-term management planning even during absences[5]. Practical Tips to Facilitate Care Simplify Horse Living Conditions: Horses accustomed to turnout with access to run-in sheds and water are easier to care for with fewer hands-on interventions[2]. Train Your Caretaker: Spending time educating your caretaker about your horses individual needs, habits, and routines improves success and reduces stress for the horse and caregiver alike[2]. Regular Communication: Arrange check-ins with your caretaker during your absence to address any concerns promptly. By thoughtfully preparing in advance, selecting reliable caretakers, arranging emergency protocols, and considering long-term options, you can ensure your horses receive the care they deserve when youre not there. This proactive approach not only safeguards their health but also provides you with peace of mind to enjoy your time away. Resources you may find helpful: Equus Magazine: *What To Do With Your Horse When You Leave Town* practical caretaker options and veterinary communication tips. The Chronicle of the Horse Forum: personal experiences on caretaker arrangements and farm setup for turn-key care. Horse & Halo: advice on creating horse care plans for end-of-life or extended absence scenarios. United Horse Coalition: equine welfare data and rehoming resources to consider for long-term care solutions. This comprehensive guidance supports both immediate absences and future contingencies to help you uphold the highest standard of care for your horses in every situation.```html```

Welcome to Horse Illustrateds weekly installment of the Right Horse Adoptable Horse of the Week, offered in partnership with the ASPCAs Right Horse program. This weeks adoptable horse is Jenny! Check back weekly for a new featured horse so you can find your Right Horse.Photo courtesy Humane Society of North TexasAdoptable Horse: Jenny, an 20-year-old, 14.3hh Arabian/Saddlebred cross mareOrganization: Humane Society of North Texas, Joshua, TexasGet to Know Adoptable Horse JennyMeet Jenny! This Arabian/Saddlebred cross mare is as sweet as she is beautiful. Jenny is seeking a new home as a companion horse. She has foundered in the past and as a result, she requires turnout on a dry lot or with a grazing muzzle if on lower quality grass. She also requires meds in the form of Prascend and Equioxx to keep her comfortable. This amazing girl deserves a happy home where she can retire and get all the love and attention she deserves.Jenny is up to date on shots, Coggins, dental care, farrier care, and is microchipped.Contact Humane Society of North Texastoday about ASPCA Right Horse Adoptable Horse of the Week, Jenny!Photo courtesy Humane Society of North TexasASPCA Right HorseASPCA Right Horse is the online adoption platform of The Right Horse Initiative, a collection of equine industry and welfare professionals and advocates working together to improve the lives of horses in transition. A program of the ASPCA, their goal is to massively increase horse adoption in the United States. To find more adoptable horses and foster horses, visit www.myrighthorse.org. To learn more about The Right Horse, a program of the ASPCA, visit www.aspcarighthorse.org.The post ASPCA Right Horse Adoptable Horse of the Week: Jenny appeared first on Horse Illustrated Magazine.

OCALA, FL Tickets are now available to attend the 2025 Ocala Food & Wine Festival, returning to World Equestrian Center Ocala (WEC) from November 7-9, 2025. In its fifth year, the annual chef-led festival features three days of culinary celebration, including chef demonstrations and competition, beverage tastings, beer, wine and spirits education, and samples of extraordinary cuisine, all supporting the Public Education Foundation[...]Read MoreThe post Tickets Now On Sale for the 2025 Ocala Food & Wine Festival at WEC appeared first on World Equestrian Center.

On Aug. 20, a 2-year-old Standardbred filly in Lewis County, Kentucky, tested positive for West Nile virus (WNV). The filly, who was unvaccinated, went down on Aug. 16 and was unable to rise. She was euthanized.This is the third confirmed equine WNV case in Kentucky in 2025.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.WNV 101West Nile virusis transmitted to horses via bites from infected mosquitoes. Not all infected horses show clinical signs, but those that do can exhibit:Flulike signs, where the horse seems mildly anorexic and depressed;Fine and coarse muscle and skin fasciculation (involuntary twitching);Hyperesthesia (hypersensitivity to touch and sound);Changes in mentation (mental activity), when horses look like theyre daydreaming or just not with it;Occasional drowsiness;Propulsive walking (driving or pushing forward, often without control); andSpinal signs, including asymmetrical weakness; andAsymmetrical or symmetrical ataxia.West Nile virus has no cure. However, some horses can recover with supportive care. Equine mortality rates can reach 30-40%.Studies have shown thatvaccines can be effective WNV prevention tools. Horses vaccinated in past years need an annual booster shot, but veterinarians might recommend two boosters annuallyone in the spring and another in the fallin areas with prolonged mosquito seasons. In contrast, previously unvaccinated horses require a two-shot vaccination series in a three- to six-week period. It takes several weeks for horses to develop protection against the disease following complete vaccination or booster administration.In addition to vaccinations, owners should work to reduce mosquito population and breeding areas and limit horses mosquito exposure by:Removing stagnant water sources;Dumping, cleaning, and refilling water buckets and troughs regularly;Keeping animals inside during insect feeding times (typically early in the morning and evening); andApplying mosquito repellents approved for equine use.

Two horses in Madison County, New York, recently tested positive for Eastern equine encephalitis (EEE).The first horse was an unvaccinated, 5-year-old gelding. On Aug. 13, the owner noticed that the horse was lethargic. The following day, he was down in the pasture. He couldnt rise without assistance and had a fever. Despite veterinary care, the horse died the following day.The second horse was an unvaccinated, 7-year-old gelding. The horse developed clinical signs on Aug 12. The owner worked the horse and noticed he was stiff and not himself. Two days later, when the horse was not improving, a veterinarian was called to examine him. The veterinarian noticed that the horse wasnt aware of his surroundings, was leaning against his stall wall, and had a fever. When he was asked to circle, he couldnt advance his front legs without assistance. Despite veterinary treatment, he died the next day.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.EEE 101Eastern equine encephalomyelitis is caused by the Eastern equine encephalitis virus, for which wild birds are a natural reservoir. Mosquitoes that feed on EEE-infected birds can transmit the virus to humans, horses, and other birds. Horses do not develop high enough levels of these viruses in their blood to be contagious to other animals or humans. Because of the high mortality rate in horses and humans, EEE is regarded as one of the most serious mosquito-borne diseases in the United States.Tips for preventing mosquito-borne diseases include:Avoid mosquito bites: Use insect repellent when outdoors, especially from dusk to dawn.Look for EPA-labeled products containing active ingredients such as DEET, picaridin (KBR3023), or oil of lemon eucalyptus (p-menthane 3,8-diol).Apply more repellent, according to label instructions, if mosquitoes start to bite.Mosquito-proof homes: Fix or install window and door screens, and cover or eliminate empty containers with standing water where mosquitoes can lay eggs.Protect your horses: Veterinarians recommend commercially available licensedvaccines against EEE for all horses in the U.S. Horses should be vaccinated at least annually (recommendations vary in high-risk areas). Its not too late this year to vaccinate your horses.Use approved insect repellents to protect horses.If possible, put horses in stables, stalls, or barns during the prime mosquito exposure hours of dusk and dawn.Eliminate standing water, drain water troughs, and empty buckets at least weekly.Stock water tanks with fish that consume mosquito larvae (contact your local mosquito control for assistance), or use mosquito dunks (soliddonuts ofBacillus thuringiensis israelensis, which are nontoxic to horses) available at hardware stores.