On Oct. 15, a weanling Quarter Horse colt in Pearl River County, Mississippi, tested positive for Eastern equine encephalitis (EEE). The colt, who had only received his initial vaccination, died after developing neurologic signs on Oct. 4.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.

Four horses in Texas recently tested positive for equine infectious anemia (EIA) and were euthanized. The horses lived in Williamson, Potter, Carson, and Midland counties.The Texas Animal Health Commission has quarantined the facilities where these horses were located and is working closely with owners and local veterinarians to monitor potentially exposed horses and implement biosecurity measures.EDCC Health Watch is an Equine Network marketing program that utilizes information from the Equine Disease Communication Center (EDCC) to create and disseminate verified equine disease reports. TheEDCCis an independent nonprofit organization that is supported by industry donations in order to provide open access to infectious disease information.About EIAEquine infectious anemiais a viral disease that attacks horses immune systems. The virus is transmitted through the exchange of body fluids from an infected to an uninfected animal, often by blood-feeding insects such as horseflies. It can also be transmitted through the use of blood-contaminated instruments or needles.ACoggins test screens horses blood for antibodiesthat are indicative of the presence of the EIA virus. Most U.S. states require horses to have proof of a negative Coggins test to travel across state lines.Once an animal is infected with EIA, it is infected for life and can be a reservoir for the spread of disease. Not all horses show signs of disease,but those that do can exhibit:Progressive body condition loss;Muscle weakness;Poor stamina;Fever;Depression; andAnemia.EIA has no vaccine and no cure. A horse diagnosed with the disease dies, is euthanized, or must be placed under extremely strict quarantine conditions (at least 200 yards away from unaffected equids) for the rest of his life.

Researchers are still exploring the relationship between the equine gut microbiome and gastric ulcers. | Adobe StockThe horses gastrointestinal (GI) tract houses a vast community of microbes, with distinct populations in different regions. This complex ecosystem is difficult to study yet sits at the center of digestive healthpossibly even diseases such as gastric ulcers.The Equine MicrobiomeThe term microbiome can refer to any microbial community in or on the body. Were most commonly talking about the (hind)gut microbiome, but theres a skin microbiome, an ocular microbiome, etc., so, the term microbiome is the overarching community, which includes bacteria, (fungi), and sometimes also viruses that live in that area, says Rebecca Bishop, DVM, MS, PhD, Dipl. ACVS (LA), a lecturer in the Department of Veterinary Clinical Medicine at the University of Illinois, in Urbana.The equine gastrointestinal microbiome includes all the microorganisms that live in the GI tract, says Aaron Ericsson, DVM, PhD, associate professor of pathobiology and integrative biomedical sciences and director of the Metagenomics Center at the University of Missouri, in Columbia. The bulk of that biomass is bacterial organisms, so that gets the most interest in research and, arguably, the bacterial populations residing in the equine gut probably have the greatest impact on host health, he adds.Gastric Ulcers in HorsesGastric ulcers affect a large population of horses, and researchers are exploring whether the stomach microbiome contributes to ulcer development.Equine gastric ulcer syndrome (EGUS) describes ulceration in either the squamous (upper) or glandular (lower) stomach. The horses stomach is unique in that it has two different portions, even though it is a single chamber, explains Bishop. The squamous portion is most like the lining of our esophagus, and then the glandular portion is what is comparable to our stomachs, where there are glands that secrete acid, mucus, and other components.From this anatomy veterinarians classify ulcers as squamous gastric disease (ESGD) or equine glandular gastric disease (EGGD). The two diseases have different underlying causes and risk factors, so even though we group them together (as EGUS), they are quite different from each other, Bishop says.Equine Microbiome ResearchA horses GI tract spans about 100 feet and the microbial communities vary widely. The upper GI tract and the stomach in particular are completely different, says Ericsson. Theres a bit of overlapyoull see some taxa (group of living organisms) across all regionsbut generally theyre very different.Sampling the microbiota in the stomach is somewhat easier than in structures deeper in the GI tract.Typically, the groups that I have worked with in this field are doing (stomach) biopsies and collecting a couple of samples when they are doing the scope procedure, Ericsson says. Theyll take that little chunk of tissue and bring it to the lab to extract DNA and figure out all of the bacteria that are present on those biopsy samples. This data collection is the beginning of building large-scale datasets. Through understanding the bacteria that are present both in horses that have gastric disease, and those that do not, researchers might be able to identify patterns when more data is available.I would say that we dont know if the microbiome plays a role in the disease process for gastric ulcers, says Bishop. As the field of research has evolved, and the better we get at DNA sequencing, the more we find and the more information we have, the more complicated it gets. However, we do know that the microbial communities change in disease states, and that they also change in response to environmental factors such as diet and exercise.Additionally, says Ericsson, in a couple of the studies that I have helped with, (we) have identified subtle differences between control horses and populations with gastric disease.One of the things that research has pretty consistently found is that lactate-producing and fibrolytic bacteria seem to be more populous in healthy states, adds Bishop. So, whether thats because those bacteria are beneficial, or because theyre more likely to get damaged when the system is upset, we dont know whether its a cause or an effect. If the lactate-producing and fibrolytic bacteria are more populous in healthy horses, it could mean that they are more likely to be damaged when disease is present because research has shown that there are less of these bacteria types in horses that have gastric ulcers.Unanswered Questions and Future ResearchResearchers still have many unanswered questions about the stomach microbiomes potential role in gastric health. Most of our research thus far has looked at what are the species, genus, or families present, says Bishop. And because we started with DNA sequencing to say what is there, were starting to think that it is probably not so much who it is, but what they do (that) is more important.The current evidence shows microbial communities differ in health and disease, but their connection to gastric ulcers has yet to be defined.

Wilmington, Ohio Hunter Derby Friday at World Equestrian Center Wilmington (WEC) brought a change of scenery during Fall Classic 4. Thirty-one riders gathered in the Standlee Sanctuary to showcase their hunters, but it was Courtney Bacso who delivered the standout performances of the day to win the $12,500 Ogilvy Equestrian USHJA National Open Hunter Derby.Source

Are you looking for something a little bit different to buy a loved one this Christmas? If so and they are a fan of horse racing then an affordable share in a racehorse could be the perfect gift.Racing Club is offering shares in both flat and jump racehorses for as little as 25, allowing members of the public the chance to experience racehorse ownership at a fraction of the normal cost.Owners will receive regular updates about how their horses training is going, the progress theyve made and news about any potential races they are being entered into. If the horse is successful at a race and wins any prize money, then owners will receive their share of the prize money pot. The share price covers all costs for the duration of the syndicate term including running and training costs and veterinary and entry fees. The one-off fee is based on 12 months of ownership, with the option to renew at a reduced rate when the syndicate term ends.Owner perksOwners are also able to apply for race day badges to UK racecourses and enter the ballot for stable visits, hospitality packages at certain UK racecourses, and the opportunity to meet the trainer, jockey and their horse.One of those who has shares available is Magic Runner, a well-bred filly who has shown consistent promise on the track. She is currently trained by Yorkshire trainer Ruth Carr at Mowbray House, having previously been based with Andrew Balding at Park House Stables.Theres nothing quite like the thrill of seeing your horse thunder down the home straight, and we believe everyone should have the chance to experience that, said Tom Aldridge, head of racing at Racing Club.Racehorse ownership is no longer just for the few. Racingclub.com was set up to make it more accessible than ever, giving people the opportunity to be part of the journey, the excitement, and the unforgettable moments that make horse racing so special.Post racing lifeRacing Club may decide to retire a horse on advice from its appointed trainers, vets or managers, if it is in the best interests of the horse (and / or the syndicate) and the owners will be notified.If Racing Club can find a suitable retirement home for the horse then it may be sold or gifted into that retirement home.If they cant, or they believe the horse is unsuitable for rehoming, Racing Club may choose to gift the horse to a rehabilitation centre.There is also the opportunity to buy gift cards which allow the recipient to choose their own horse to have a share in.For more information click here. Image of Magic Runner Racing Club.Related contentKiwi event rider banks 45k for Cornbury win on ex-racehorse with such a beautiful mindLong-awaited ex-racehorse class worth 45k to the winner gets the green lightProperty director and cheap ex-racehorse make their CCI5* debutEx-racehorses shouldnt carry more than 17% of their bodyweight, says RoRFirst six months of life is a critical period of development in Thoroughbreds, study revealsThe post Racehorse ownership available from as little as 25, thanks to syndicate club appeared first on Your Horse.

Key Points Details Breed Origin Denmark, known for leopard-spotted coats, robust athletic abilities Typical Size 15-16 hands, 1,100 lbs (500 kg) Main Types Sport: Taller, Olympic disciplines Baroque: Shorter, classical build Pony: Smaller, gentle temperament Unique Needs of Bon Heightened environmental awareness, strong emotional bonds, consistent routines, sensitivity to stress Care Strategies Stable, Consistent Routines Gentle Handling & Positive Training Appropriate Nutrition & Health Care Mental & Physical Exercise Monitor Social Needs & Environment Grooming and Physical Care Building a Bond Patience and deep understanding lead to a trusting partnership Resources Mad Barns Knabstrupper Breed Guide American Knabstrupper Association PetMD for Training Advice US Dressage Federation (USDF) Conclusion Patience, dedication, and understanding lead to thriving relationships with sensitive horses. Horse care involves understanding the unique needs and characteristics of each breed. In this article, we'll explore how to adjust horsecare for a sensitive Knabstrupper named Bon. Knabstruppers are celebrated for their striking appearance and cooperative temperament, but they possess distinct sensitivities that caretakers must consider. We will delve into the nuances of caring for Bon and provide practical tips for ensuring his well-being, highlighting effective management strategies for a happy, healthy equine companion.Understanding the Knabstrupper Breed: Essential BackgroundKnabstruppers trace their origins to Denmark, recognized for their unique leopard-spotted coats and robust athletic abilities. These warmbloods usually stand between 15 and 16 hands and weigh around 1,100 pounds (500 kg). Known for their versatility, they excel in various disciplines such as dressage, jumping, eventing, and driving. Their intelligence and curiosity make Knabstruppers quick learners and eager to engage in regular activities. The Three Main Types of Knabstruppers Sport Type: These are taller and influenced by warmblood characteristics, making them ideal for Olympic disciplines like dressage and eventing. Baroque Type: Shorter with a broader, more classical build, suitable for show and classical dressage. Pony Type: Smaller, more compact, and popular with children for their gentle temperaments and vivid coloring.Recognizing Bons Unique NeedsBon exhibits the typical sensitivity of a Knabstrupper, manifesting in heightened awareness of his surroundings and a strong emotional connection with his caretakers. He thrives in environments where there is gentle interaction, consistent routines, and low stress, requiring special attention to keep him comfortable and content.Key Traits to Consider Heightened environmental awareness Strong emotional bonds with caretakers Need for consistent routines Sensitivity to stressful stimuliPractical Steps to Adapt Your Care for BonCreate a Stable, Consistent RoutinePredictability plays a crucial role in minimizing Bon's anxiety. Consistency in feeding, grooming, exercise, and downtime can make a significant difference in helping him feel secure.Prioritize Gentle Handling and Positive TrainingKnabstruppers respond better to pleasant training methods than to aggressive corrections. Utilize calm body language and positive reinforcement to yield better results in behavioral and skill training. Ensure Appropriate Nutrition and Health CareBalancing Bons diet is essential for his athletic lifestyle. Although Knabstruppers are considered easy keepers, attentive care through regular health checks and adjustments to their diet can support joint health and muscle condition.Provide Adequate Mental and Physical ExerciseEngaging Bon with activities that challenge his mind and body, such as trail rides and light dressage, can keep him physically and emotionally healthy. Incorporate a mix of training to meet his psychological and physical needs.Monitor Social Needs and EnvironmentKnabstruppers like Bon appreciate social interactions with smaller, tranquil groups. It is crucial to avoid pairing them with dominant or aggressive peers, which can lead to unnecessary stress. Grooming and Physical CareRegular grooming helps maintain Bon's distinctive coat. This practice not only aids in health monitoring but also strengthens bonds, allowing for early detection of any emerging health issues.Building a Bond with Bon: Patience and Understanding Are KeyDeveloping a meaningful relationship with Bon involves deep understanding and responsiveness to his sensitivities, which can lead to fulfilling companionship. By acknowledging and embracing his unique character, you can establish a trusting partnership that benefits both horse and owner.Supporting Your Journey with Reliable Resources For additional reading and breed-specific care recommendations, this Mad Barns Knabstrupper Breed Guide is informative. For community support and breed standards, consult the American Knabstrupper Association. For nuanced training and sensitivity response, PetMD provides detailed advice. The US Dressage Federation (USDF) explains suitability regarding equine sports participation.Conclusion: Cultivating Growth through Care and DedicationThe journey with a sensitive horse like Bon requires patience, dedication, and a commitment to understanding nuanced needs. By adapting care practices and creating a nurturing, predictable environment, both horse and owner can thrive together. Explore our Jodhpur Collection for all your riding attire needs, and make the most of your equine partnership.```html```