A significant increase in cases of strangles has been identified across the UK this year, prompting renewed calls for horse care professionals and owners to strengthen biosecurity and consider vaccination to help reduce disease spread.Data from the Surveillance of Equine Strangles (SES) network, which collects reports of laboratory diagnoses from 12 veterinary diagnostic laboratories and equine practices nationwide, confirms that over 370 cases have already been diagnosed in 2025, surpassing the UKs annual average of around 300.Throughout 2025 Equine Infectious Disease Surveillance (EIDS) has been monitoring diagnoses reported to SES. Analysis of this data revealed that the number of positive diagnoses this year is significantly higher than in 2023 and 2024, indicating a genuine increase rather than normal year-to-year variation.These findings are a clear reminder that strangles remains an ever-present risk to the UK horse population, said Dr Richard Newton of EIDS. The increase in diagnoses underlines the importance of continued vigilance, prompt reporting, and proactive prevention measures.Recent research by EIDS and the Royal Veterinary College (RVC) has also provided insights into how strangles spreads. The research indicated that acutely infected or recently recovered short-term carrier horses play a more important role in transmission than long-term carriers.Our data shows how easily this disease can move across regions through potential links such as shared horse transport, events/competitions, and buying and selling horses, said Dr Abigail McGlennon. Post-outbreak screening, sufficient quarantine and screening of new arrivals and routine biosecurity measures are essential to preventing wider transmission.With the number of confirmed cases climbing, EIDS and the SES network are urging veterinary professionals and owners to revisit their yard management practices. Isolating new arrivals, disinfecting shared equipment, and post-outbreak screening can make a substantial difference in controlling the disease.Vaccination is also an effective additional tool, they said. When combined with good hygiene and daily temperature checking, vaccination can help reduce both the risk of infection and further spread.We now have more tools than ever to protect horses, but knowledge must be matched by action, said Dr McGlennon. Prevention, early detection, and vaccination together can help to reduce the impact of strangles.For resources to help recognise the signs of strangles and improve prevention, visit the EIDS information page here.Image credit: ShutterstockRelated contentHow to protect your horse or pony from stranglesStrangles in horses: equine vet explains how to prevent, manage and treat this contagious diseaseStrangles hits hard on multiple levels: a survivors story5 things your horses vet really wishes you wouldnt doThe post Warning to horse owners after significant rise in strangles cases appeared first on Your Horse.

Section Key Points Importance of Registered Farrier Legal requirement since 1975; ensures training and updated skills; verify with FRC. Steps to Find a Reliable Farrier Use FRC directory, seek recommendations, check online reviews, assess specializations, arrange interviews. Expectations from a Good Farrier Clear communication, punctuality, ongoing development, holds insurance. Red Flags Unwillingness to show registration, lack of reviews, poor handling of horses. Additional Resources FRC, local directories, Hoof Boot Directory, Barefoot Trimming resources. Legal Perspective Avoid unregistered farriers to stay compliant with the law. Final Tips Verify FRC registration, build rapport, trust instincts. How to Find a Reliable Farrier in Derbyshire: Tips and Recommendations for Horse Owners As a horse owner in Derbyshire, maintaining your horses hoof health is just as critical as finding the perfect stable rug for chilly nights. Thus, selecting a reliable farrier becomes an indispensable part of your equestrian journey. This guide will navigate you through the steps to identify a qualified professional, ensuring that your equine friend gallops through life with ease. Why Choosing a Registered Farrier Matters Using a registered farrier is not just wise; its legal. Since 1975, UK law (The Farriers (Registration) Act) mandates that all practicing farriers be registered with the Farriers Registration Council (FRC). This ensures that your farrier is not only trained but also continuously updated with the best techniques available. Check credentials quickly using the FRCs online directory, a hassle-free way to verify a farriers legitimacy before hiring. Steps to Finding a Reliable Farrier in Derbyshire Use the Official Farriers Registration Council Directory An excellent starting point is the FRC website, which offers a searchable directory. Only a registered farrier can legally practice in the UK, making this a non-negotiable step. Ask for Recommendations Nothing beats first-hand advice from fellow horse enthusiasts! Tap into the collective wisdom of Derbyshires horse owners, riding schools, and equestrian centers to find a reliable farrier. They might even share stories worth their weight in horse treats. Check Reviews and Testimonials Reviews paint a picture that brochures often neglect. Visit platforms like Google and Facebook to get a feel of the clientele's satisfaction levels but ensure that the farrier is on the FRCs listbecause nothing ruins a horses day like an unregistered hoof-hacker. Consider Specializations Does your horse participate in competitive sports or require special supplements? Choose a farrier experienced in the specific needs of sport horses, remedial shoeing, or barefoot trimming. Resources like the Barefoot Horse directory help locate certified trimmers in Derbyshire for those considering barefoot options. Arrange a Visit or Interview A reputable farrier should welcome the opportunity to discuss your horses needs. During this phase, observe their handling skills and professionalismgood vibes mean good hooves. What to Expect From a Good Farrier A great farrier is as essential as comfortable jodhpurs during a long ride. Heres what distinguishes them: Clear Communication: Expect explanations, not enigmas. Punctuality and Reliability: Sticking to schedules optimizes hoof health. Continued Professional Development: They should be lifelong learners, just like you with those horse fly protections. Insurance: Professional indemnity insurance is a safety net for when excursions dont go as planned. Red Flags to Watch Out For Ensuring your horses well-being means vigilance against warning signs: Unwillingness to Show Registration: Dont compromise on inspecting that farrier card. No References or Reviews: Silence speaks volumes; look for client experiences. Poor Handling: If they cant treat your horse with kindness, trot away briskly. Additional Resources Want to expand your search or dive deeper? Farriers Registration Council: Double-check your farriers status. Local Directories: Another layer of research, always cross-check with the FRC. Hoof Boot Directory: For advanced fitting services. Barefoot Trimming: A treasure trove for those interested in this eco-friendly alternative. The Legal Perspective Avoiding unregistered farriers isnt just smart; it keeps you on the right side of the law. The FRC has a keen eye for investigating illegal farriery and fully supports reporting any suspicious activity. Why gamble with your horses welfare when there are reputable options available? Final Tips Always verify registration with the FRC before appointments. Build a rapport with your farrier for consistent carehoof health is a marathon, not a sprint. Trust your instincts: if somethings off, dont hesitate to get a second opinion. Summary Table: How to Verify a Farrier Step Why It Matters Where to Check FRC Registration Legal requirement, ensures competence FRC website Personal Recommendations Real-world feedback Local networks, forums Online Reviews Wider client experiences Google, Facebook, forums Interview/Observation Assess professionalism, horse handling In-person visit Conclusion Finding a reliable farrier in Derbyshire becomes smooth sailing with this guides actionable insights. Trust only verified professionals, lean on the local equine community for recommendations, and remember that your horses well-being is a collaborative effort between you and your farrier. For the most updated and precise details, consult the Farriers Registration Councils official resources. Happy trails to you and your trusty steed! ```html```

Photo: iStockA breeding soundness exam helps veterinarians determine whether a mare is physically ready to conceive and carry a foal. During the exam, a veterinarian evaluates the mares overall health, reproductive tract, and hormone status to identify any potential issues before breeding. Jenna Ward, DVM, Dipl. ACT, of the University of Pennsylvanias New Bolton Center, in Kennett Square describes the typical equine breeding soundness exam and the ideal age to breed a mare in this excerpt from Ask TheHorse Live.This is an excerpt from our Ask TheHorse Live podcast, Mare Reproductive Problems. Listen to the full recording here.About the Expert: Jenna Ward, DVM, Dipl. ACTJenna Ward, DVM, Dipl. ACT, is a clinician and lecturer in large animal reproduction at the University of Pennsylvania's New Bolton Center, in Kennett Square. She earned her DVM at Texas A&M University, in College Station. Ward's research includes stallion reproductive health and genetic-related embryonic loss in horses.