Like many draft breeds, the Percheron was used on farms across Europe and America. Today, the breeds smaller registry numbers are primarily due to the costs associated with caring for horses. The Percheron Horse Association of America (PHAOA) currently has 34,084 horses registered.To help preserve the breed, individuals should prioritize continuing to register purebred livestock, says Stacie Lynch, PHAOA executive director. This investment is crucial for maintaining the breeds integrity and ensuring the ability to trace pedigree and breeder information.Its important for breeders to recognize the broader impact of registration, extending beyond just mares and stallions to include geldings, she continues. By registering all horses, regardless of their roles, breeders contribute to the breeds welfare, support the registry, and safeguard the legacies of exceptional horses. This proactive approach ensures that each remarkable individual is duly recognized and remembered for generations to come.And the Percheron is definitely a breed worth remembering. Not many breeds can go from energetic high-stepping show horses to calm, quiet stable ponies, but the Percheron can. Its one of the reasons lovers of the breed are so dedicated to them.The Ames PercheronsI grew up with draft horses, says Jacqui Shaw, manager at Ames Percheron Farm, Inc., in Minnesota. My dad, Jim Westbrook, bred Percherons when I was young and then became a professional hitch driver. Its a family tradition. It just gets in your blood. Jacquis husband Travis is also hitch driver for Ames Percheron Farm. He got his start in middle school with his neighbors draft horses. The Ames family has a long history with the breed, starting with John and Eliza Ames, who immigrated to America from England in 1874 and farmed with Percherons. In the early 1900s, they began to show them.As time went on, showing became their focus. In the early 1990s, brothers Dick, Butch, John and Ron Ames decided to invest in a team of driving Percherons to be sponsored by their company, Ames Construction. It was a way to keep their family tradition alive, and Dick had a real passion for the horses.Showing a Big HitchToday, the Ames Percherons show in six- and eight-horse hitch configurations year-round, attending between 10 and 15 shows annually. And they have it down to a science. A team of five to six people can get the team ready in as little as 45 minutes, though the average is 90still a speedy time!The Ames Percherons show in six- and eight-horse configurations year round. Photo by Avalon PhotographyAnd getting to the show? That takes two 53-foot big rigs: One that holds the harnesses and cart, and one that hauls the 10 horses. The trailer has space for 15 horses, but Jacqui says they never take that many.Ames used to show teams of dapple grays, but Jacqui says the color is getting harder to find as it fell out of fashion, and some of the main breeders of gray Percherons were PMU farms in Canada that are now closed. So, they switched to an all-black team, for the most part. We still have a couple grays that get dyed to match the blacks for shows, says Jacqui. (They use animal-safe cattle dye, and its legal at the shows they compete at.) Its all about appearance at these shows, and we even dye the blacks to make sure their coats really shine. Some get bleached by the sun, so we need to cover the brown. Almost every team at our level dyes their horses, in all breeds.While once common within the breed, gray Percherons are now outnumbered by black horses. Photo by Bob LangrishA Dual PersonalitySince 2000, Ames Percheron Farm has won the North American Classic Series six-horse Championship four times, and has multiple national titles in both the six- and eight-horse hitch. But Jacqui says that even if they couldnt show, she and her husband would be content to just take care of the horses.These guys, the big horses, have a real gentle demeanor in the barn, she says. We train them to be flashy when they are showing, so you hook them up and they have a whole different personality. They are a powerful athlete that gives their all.But then you take them back to the barn and they put their heads down and just want to be petted, she continues. Ive had a lot of riding horses, but they dont have that split personality, where they can turn off the hot when they arent showing.Jacqui Shaw says her Percherons can turn on the fire when its time to perform, but are sweet in-your-pocket horses around the barn. Photo by Shelley PaulsonThis sweet personality makes them a fan favorite, as crowds of people gather around to meet and pet them at shows.We get people saying they want one when they are ready for retirement, because they are so sweet and gentle, Jacqui says.This article about the Percheron appeared in the November/December 2024 issue of Horse Illustratedmagazine.Click here to subscribe!The post Breed Portrait: Percheron appeared first on Horse Illustrated Magazine.

Section Key Points Introduction Equestrian fashion is evolving with a focus on style and comfort, particularly through the integration of riding tights. The Historical Backbone Mens equestrian fashion has roots in military-inspired jodhpurs and boots, combining tradition with modern practicality. Marrying Style and Functionality Athleisure is making its mark, featuring moisture-wicking shirts and leggings that merge practicality with style. The Sustainability Factor Equestrian brands are increasingly adopting eco-friendly practices and using recycled materials. The Age of Riding Tights Riding tights are gaining popularity among men, offering comfort, performance, and style. Why Go Tight? Riding tights provide flexibility, moisture-wicking, UV protection, and a streamlined look. Breaking Gender Norms Male riders embracing riding tights symbolize a shift towards inclusivity and self-expression in equestrian fashion. Current Trends Mens equestrian fashion features bold colors, technical fabrics, sustainability, and customization. Choosing the Perfect Apparel Select riding tights with reinforced knee patches, breathable shirts, and accessorize thoughtfully. Accessorizing Like a Pro Important accessories include coordinated belts, functional gloves, and other style-enhancing items. The Road Ahead Equestrian fashion is increasingly focusing on performance and aesthetics, expanding with innovative products. Conclusion Riding tights are redefining mens equestrian fashion by prioritizing comfort and individuality. Equestrian fashion isn't just about the horse; it's equally about the rider. Traditionally bound by rigid stereotypes, the world of mens equestrian fashion is experiencing an exciting transformation. Enter the rise of riding tightsa voguish twist on what it means to ride with style and comfort. This blog embarks on a journey through the evolution of men's equestrian attire, the technological enhancements that shape it, and how these changes reflect broader societal trends.The Historical Backbone: Tradition Meets ModernityOnce upon a horseback, mens equestrian fashion was dominated by military-inspired jodhpurs and polished boots, epitomizing aristocratic elegance. As the tides change, so does the fashion, blending timeless elements with the demands of todays world for a refined yet practical equestrian wardrobe.Marrying Style and FunctionalityMove over, tweed blazers. Todays equestrian fashionistas demand gear that morphs seamlessly from saddle to street. Enter the age of athleisure: garments like moisture-wicking shirts and leggings with reinforced knee patches that redefine riding wear. Its fashion that doesnt just turn heads but also keeps you comfortable, inspiring a younger and more adventurous generation of riders.The Green Horizon: Sustainability in Equestrian ApparelAs concerns about ethical production mount, equestrian attire is spurred toward eco-friendly initiatives. Brands are switching to recycled fabrics and more transparent supply chains, ensuring that horseback heroes not only look good but feel good about their purchase. Sustainable fashion isnt just a trendit's an imperative.The Age of Riding Tights: Breaking Norms, Bending LinesOnce viewed as a domain exclusive to women, riding tights are now galloping into mens wardrobes. They are carving a niche by offering the trifecta of comfort, performance, and style. With their snug fit and stretchy fabrics, tights transcend mere functionality, making them a staple in both competitive settings and leisurely hacks.Why Go Tight? The Practical PayoffRiding tights offer unmatched flexibility, ensuring freedom of movement that breeches can only dream of. Add in moisture-wicking technology, UV protection, and a streamlined silhouette, and you get a garment that checks the boxes for both competitive edge and casual appeal. Plus, understated patterns let men express their style without compromising professionalism.Breaking Gender Norms in Equestrian FashionAs riding tights blur the lines between genders, they echo shifts seen in the wider fashion industry. Male riders embracing tights signifies a departure from tradition toward inclusivity and self-expression. Lets throw the gates open wide, allowing for a more diverse representation in the equestrian world.Riding the Wave: Current Trends Transforming Mens Equestrian StyleIn 2023, mens equestrian fashion is a canvas for bold colors, technical fabrics, and customizable gear: Bold Colors & Patterns: Make a splash with vibrant hues that let you stand out. Athleisure Influence: Your wardrobe transitions from barn to brunch effortlessly. Sustainability: Eco-conscious choices reflect modern values. Technical Attributes: From moisture-wicking to quick-dry, comfort meets performance. Customization: Personalization adds confidence and uniqueness to your look.For more on how to elevate your style, browse the Horse Riding Gloves Collection and Horse Riding Socks Collection.Choosing the Perfect ApparelShopping for equestrian attire isnt just about the look; its about the ride. Opt for riding tights with reinforced knee patches, and shirts made from breathable fabrics, and play around with stylesfrom high-waisted comfort to vibrant patterns. Dont forget to accessorize with equestrian belts and stylish bootsbecause, in this world, details matter.Accessorizing Like a Pro: The EssentialsBeyond your general riding tights and boots, accessorizing goes a long way. A coordinated belt, a pair of functional gloves, and accessories that mirror horse and rider styling add a touch of sophistication and practicality. Check the Horse Treats And Gifts for additional inspiration.The Road Ahead for Mens Equestrian FashionAs the equestrian fashion arena broadens, products that seamlessly combine performance and aesthetics herald a new age. Equestrian brands are rising to this call, offering innovative productsfrom our trusty riding boots to custom gearthat invite both seasoned enthusiasts and spirited novices alike into the folds.Mens equestrian fashion is not just about what to wear, but how it wears us. As style breaks free from tradition, riding tights take center stage. They are the flag bearers of comfort, practicality, and individuality in a sport thats as much about looking ahead as it is about staying true to its roots. If ever there was a time to mount up and redefine the ride, its now.Keen on diving deeper into equestrian fashion? Explore the Stable Rugs and Horse Fly Protection collections for additional layers of fashion and functionality.```html```

Topic Details Rider-to-Horse Bodyweight Ratio Critical measure for equestrian disciplines; should be below 15-20% to minimize discomfort and injury. Scientific Insights Rider weights over 15-20% can cause temporary lameness; impact may subside with rest. Complexities in Research Some studies show no significant stress markers with increased weight, provided activity is moderate. Rider Balance and Technique Proper posture and technique can mitigate high weight ratio effects; poor balance negatively affects horses. Equestrian Perceptions 47% of UK riders think a horse can carry 16-20% of its weight, indicating a need for more education. Musculoskeletal Sensitivity Sensitive to excess weight; poor saddle fit can cause discomfort and reversible lameness. Practical Steps Maintain weight ratio, match horse and rider, ensure saddle fit, and enhance rider technique. Long-Term Effects Long-term stress on horses remains unclear; monitor gait and lameness signs. Training and Equipment Invest in quality gear for stability and technique; use supplements for horse health and recovery. Conclusion Balance of weight and welfare is crucial; guidelines and education ensure safe and enjoyable riding. Understanding Rider Weight and Horse Welfare: Balancing the Scales in Equestrian SportsEquestrian enthusiasts are increasingly interested in the dynamics of rider weight and horse welfare, a subject mired in both scientific scrutiny and community discourse. As more studies delve into the impact of rider-to-horse bodyweight ratios, the equestrian world is shifting to prioritize horse wellbeing alongside riding enjoyment.The Rider-to-Horse Bodyweight RatioThe concept of the rider-to-horse bodyweight ratio (RHBW ratio) is critical in equestrian disciplines. Essentially, it's a measure of how much weight a horse carries relative to its own body mass. Research suggests that maintaining this ratio within a specific range generally below 15-20% minimizes the risk of discomfort and injury for the horse. Landmark studies leading this investigation highlight the significance of balancing rider weight with proper horse care.Scientific Insights into RHBW RatiosOne pivotal study, spearheaded by Dr. Sue Dyson, demonstrated that rider weights exceeding 15-20% of the horse's body weight could induce temporary lameness and affect gait. Fortunately, these effects generally subsided with rest[1]. This underscores the need for selecting a suitable horse that matches the rider's weight and skill levels.Complexities in Recent ResearchContrasting perspectives emerge from research led by Aarhus University, revealing that increased rider weight did not significantly affect horses' physiological stress markers like heart rate during moderate work[3][4]. Horses can sometimes tolerate increased loads without severe consequences, provided the activity intensity remains moderate.Rider Balance and Technique: An Overlooked Factor?Recent studies elucidate that a rider's balance and technique substantially contribute to their horse's comfort. Rider posture and skill can ameliorate the effects of a higher weight ratio, proving that technique is as crucial as physical weight in ensuring horse welfare. Poor rider balance often manifests as increased tail swishing and open-mouth behavior in horses[4].Equestrian Perceptions and MisconceptionsAccording to surveys conducted among UK riders, there's a notable divide in perception. About 47% of surveyed riders believed that a horse could comfortably carry rider weights ranging between 16-20%, despite cautionary advice against exceeding 15%[2]. These results point to a gap in understanding, necessitating ongoing education and discussion within horse riding communities.Musculoskeletal Sensitivity in HorsesThe biological intricacies of a horses musculoskeletal system mean that it's particularly sensitive to excess weight. Heavier loads can exacerbate low-grade lameness and discomfort, especially if combined with inadequate saddle fit[1][5]. Temporary lameness has been noted to resolve shortly after riding sessions, highlighting the reversible yet impactful nature of these strains[5].Practical Steps for Riding ComfortTo optimize riding experiences and ensure horse welfare, riders should consider the following: Maintain a rider-to-horse weight ratio below 15-20% to minimize risk[1][5]. Select horses that match the rider's weight, fitness, and competency levels[1][5]. Ensure proper saddle fit to distribute rider weight evenly and avoid pressure points[1][5]. Enhance rider balance and technique to reduce stress on the horse's musculoskeletal system[4].Long-Term Considerations for Heavy RidersAlthough short-term increases in rider weight might not induce severe physiological stress, long-term effects remain uncertain. Particularly during high-intensity exercise, riders must maintain caution. Monitoring signs of discomfort such as irregular gait and lameness is critical for timely adjustment[3][4].The Critical Role of Equestrian Training and EquipmentTraining programs and quality equipment play essential roles in ensuring both rider and horse joint comfort and performance. Investing in riding gear like jodhpurs, boots, and gloves enhances rider stability and technique. For instance, effective horse riding boots provide necessary support for improved balance.Supplements and Horse CareBeyond physical training, equestrian supplements are pivotal in maintaining horse health. Providing a mix of everyday vitamins and supplements ensures overall wellbeing. Additionally, using stable and turnout rugs protects horses from the elements, facilitating optimal recovery post-training.Conclusion: A Delicate Balance of Weight and WelfareThe conversation surrounding rider weight and horse welfare is evolving and gaining complexity. While horses can generally tolerate riders within a specific weight range, consideration for balance, skill, and equipment significantly enhances the riding experience. Continuing research alongside adept rider education remains crucial to establishing guidelines that safeguard horse welfare without compromising the joy of riding.Explore Equipments for Horse Fly Protection on the Just Horse Riders Treats And Gifts page for a happier horse-rider relationship.```html```

Class IV laser therapy offers veterinarians an option for pain relief and tissue healing in patients. | Courtesy Dr. Niklas DrummWhen a horse sustains a soft-tissue injury or struggles with chronic musculoskeletal pain, rehabilitation can feel like a long road back to soundness. In recent years Class IV laser therapy has become an increasingly valuable tool for veterinarians and equine rehabilitation professionals, offering new options for pain relief and tissue healing.Class IV lasers use targeted light energy to stimulate healing, reduce inflammation, and relieve pain. Compared to lower-level cold lasers, Class IV devices deliver significantly more power, enabling deeper penetration and a broader range of therapeutic effects.These devices have an output power greater than 500 milliwatts, compared to less than 500 milliwatts from Class III devices, says Mathilde Pluim, PhD, a faculty member at Ghent University, in Belgium. That higher energy allows the light to reach deeper tissueslike tendons and ligamentswhere it can have a measurable impact on healing.Researchers have shown that lower-level lasers transmit only about 1.81.9% of light energy into equine tendon tissue at an 800-nanometer wavelength, which is too little for effective tendon treatment, says Pluim. High-power lasers deliver enough energy to produce changes in deeper structures, she adds.How to Use Class IV Lasers for Equine RehabilitationClass IV laser therapy has become a key component of many equine rehabilitation programs. Martha Rodgers, VMD, owner of Shephard Hill Equine, in Lexington, Kentucky, uses hers most often to treat tendon and ligament injuries, acute trauma, and musculoskeletal pain, as well as pain in large muscle groups. I also use my Class IV for wound healing and to stimulate acupuncture points in extremely needle-phobic horses, she says.Equine veterinarians incorporate Class IV laser therapy into a structured rehab plan to support other modalities such as controlled exercise, physiotherapy, and extracorporeal shock wave therapy. In clinical studies Pluim says horses with superficial and deep digital flexor tendon or suspensory ligament lesions treated with Class IV lasers experienced:Reduced lameness and better ultrasound healing scores within two weeks.Return to exercise in approximately six weeks.Full return to previous performance within six months.Lower reinjury rates (1721%) compared with traditional conservative treatments (4244%).These results show that laser therapy doesnt replace a rehabilitation programit enhances it, says Pluim. By supporting better tissue quality and reducing inflammation, the horse can move comfortably through each stage of recovery.The Science Behind Class IV LasersAt the cellular level laser therapy works through photostimulation, or light-induced activation of mitochondria (the cells energy centers). Laser energy is absorbed by cytochromes and chromophores on cell membranes and within mitochondria, explains Rodgers. That leads to mitochondrial activation, nitric oxide formation, and improved cell signaling.These changes lead to beneficial effects, including:Pain relief from increased serotonin and beta-endorphins, vasodilation from nitric oxide release, and improved oxygen deliveryReduced inflammation due to boosted ATP production and nitric oxide levels, with decreased inflammatory mediators such as interleukin-1 and prostaglandinsTissue repair caused by increased macrophage activity, fibroblast proliferation, and collagen formation, plus greater neovascularization and enhanced growth factor activity.In her research Pluim also found measurable improvements at the tissue level, including smaller lesion size, improved collagen alignment, and enhanced fiber strength. These changes translate into stronger, more functional repair tissuecritical in reducing reinjury risk once the horse returns to work, she says.Developing a Class IV Laser Treatment Plan for HorsesLaser therapy protocols vary depending on the horses condition, injury location, and stage of healing. In acute cases, such as the first 48 hours after injury, we may treat daily or every other day, Rodgers says. For chronic issues, one or two sessions per week are typical, with frequency decreasing as healing progresses.Dosage depends on target tissue depth and type. Rodgers recommends:15 joules/cm for superficial tissues.820 joules/cm for general musculoskeletal applications.Up to 30 joules/cm for deep muscle or tendon structures.Most horses respond well to 812 joules/cm for common rehabilitation needs, she says.In Pluims experimental work, she and colleagues used a 15-watt continuous-wave laser emitting four wavelengths (635, 660, 810, and 980 nanometers), delivering approximately 250 joules per cubic centimeter (an accurate unit of measure when treating deeper tissues) of treated tissue. She adds that available literature shows significant variation in dosages used but the dosages she studied had positive effects on the treated horses.Correct technique is essential for safety and efficacy, Pluim says. Shaving and cleaning the skin improves penetration, she explains. The handpiece should be kept in motion and held perpendicular to the tissue to avoid overheating and energy loss.Because Class IV lasers generate warmth, Rodgers adds that the veterinarian should monitor both tissue temperature and the horses comfort throughout treatment. Class IV sessions are nonpainful and usually well tolerated, she says. If heat sensitivity arises, adjusting settings, time, or probe distance quickly resolves it.Safety and Contraindications for Class IV Lasers in HorsesClass IV lasers can serve as powerful therapeutic tools but demand careful handling. Proper control of the treatment environment and protective eyewear are required, Rodgers says. She does not recommend practitioners use it over tumors or on a horses thyroid gland, in pregnant uteruses or epileptic patients, or over pacemakers or other implanted devices, adding that the beam should never be aimed near the eye. Use caution near growth plates in young horses and in treating horses with autoimmune or photosensitive conditions, she says.Horses generally tolerate laser sessions well, Rodgers says. The key is having a calm, attentive handler who keeps the horse still and comfortable.Training and Equipment for Class IV LasersBecause of the power these devices deliver, practitioners must undergo specialized training. Class IV lasersespecially continuous-wave modelsmust be used by someone who understands laser physics, anatomy, and safe operating protocols, says Rodgers.Manufacturers typically provide training upon purchase of a unit. This helps veterinarians learn proper settings for different tissue types, safe beam angles, and signs of overheating. Each company offers either on-site or remote instruction, Rodgers says. Its critical to maximize results and prevent tissue damage.Investment varies, but most Class IV laser systems range from $15,000 to $25,000, says Rodgers, which she views as an investment in long-term patient outcomes. When used correctly, Ive seen faster, stronger healing and lower reinjury rates, especially in tendon and ligament cases.Setting Realistic Expectations for Treatment ResultsWhile Class IV laser therapy can accelerate healing responses, Rodgers cautions against assuming it will shorten the total rehabilitation period. One of our main goals is to produce stronger, more physiologically normal repair tissue, she explains. That takes time and patience.Rather than speeding the clock, laser therapys value lies in improving tissue quality, enhancing comfort, and reducing the risk of reinjury, making it a powerful adjunct to carefully managed rest and progressive conditioning.Take-Home MessageClass IV laser therapy is helping reshape how veterinarians approach equine rehabilitation. Veterinarians are finding that by reaching deeper tissues, enhancing cellular repair, and reducing inflammation, these high-powered devices give injured horses a better chance at returning to full athletic function.High-power laser therapy has shown enhanced healing, reduced lesion size, and better collagen alignment, says Pluim. Lower-level lasers simply lack the power to achieve those outcomes in deep equine structures.

Wet weather can predispose the horses skin to dermatitis. | Anne M. Eberhardt/The HorseWhen the leaves start to fall and the pastures turn soggy, most horse owners know whats coming next: mud. While mud might seem harmless, it can cause painful skin infections such as scratches in horses.Also known as pastern dermatitis, scratches is a catchall term for infection and inflammation of the skin on a horses lower legs. It often shows up as crusty scabs, hair loss, or tender skin on the pasterns and heels. Some horses develop mild irritation, while others experience swelling, pain, or even lameness.The weather plays a big role, as it tends to be much more wet in the fall, and moisture predisposes the skin to dermatitis, says Julia Miller, DVM, Dipl. ACVD, of Animal Dermatology Group, in Louisville, Kentucky. Horses begin growing their thick winter coats, which traps dampness close to the skin. Once moisture softens the outer layer of skin, bacteria can take hold and cause infection.In many cases its not just mudits mud mixed with manure, so this is an excellent breeding ground for bacteria, says Miller. Horses that stand in these wet, dirty areas for long periods are at high risk of developing scratches.Spot Scratches EarlyScratches respond best to treatment started before a severe flare-up. Routine, thorough inspection of the distal limbs is critical at all times of the year, but especially in the spring and fall, says Miller. Dont just rely on brushinguse your hands to feel for small bumps, scabs, or areas of heat. Catching these signs early gives you a much better chance at stopping the infection before it spreads, she says.If you find early crusting or irritation, clean the affected area gently with warm water and a mild antiseptic solution, then dry it completely. Avoid harsh scrubbing, which can worsen irritation.Keep Your Horses Limbs Clean and DryClean and dry is my motto, says Miller. Consistently wet or muddy conditions set horses up to struggle with scratches, no matter what you apply to their legs.If possible, bring horses into a clean, dry stall during the wettest parts of the day, including early mornings when dew covers the grass. Improving pasture drainage, moving hay racks or water troughs away from muddy spots, and adding footing such as crushed stone in high-traffic areas can go a long way in keeping your horses legs dry.For horses that grow thick leg hair early in the season, consider gently clipping the area to help it dry faster, says Miller. But be cautiousclipping too short or with dull blades can nick the skin and make the problem worse.Treatment and Topicals for Scratches in HorsesAfter cleaning and drying the legs, apply a topical product to soothe the skin and help it heal, says Miller. Breathable steroid-free breathable topicals are ideal, but always consult your veterinarian if you need help choosing a topical to treat scratches. Products such as medical-grade manuka honey and micro-silver can help fight bacteria while forming a protective barrier that supports healing.For more severe or spreading cases, contact your veterinarianhorses with deep infections might need steroids or oral antibiotics, says Miller.Management Changes to Prevent Scratches in HorsesBecause you cant eliminate wet conditions entirely, aim to limit your horses exposure. Rotate turnout to drier paddocks or use a sand pen or arena when pastures are saturated. Applying a thin layer of diaper rash ointment or a similar barrier cream before turnout can also help repel moisture, though you will need to reapply it frequently, says Miller.Take-Home MessageWet fall weather increases the risk of skin problems such as scratches in horses. To defend against these issues, inspect your horses legs daily, improve pasture drainage, and keep your horse as clean and dry as possible. If your horse develops scratches, address moisture first, then use a gentle topical to help protect and heal the skin. Early action keeps small issues from becoming painful infections.

On Oct. 29, a 17-year-old Thoroughbred mare tested positive for equine herpesvirus myeloencephalopathy (EHM) secondary to equine herpesvirus-1 (EHV-1). The mare was examined by a veterinarian on Oct. 28 for limb edema and stiffness at the walk. These clinical signs progressed to difficulty urinating and ataxia within hours. She was referred to an equine hospital and is currently still alive.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.EHV 101Herpesvirus is highly contagious among horses and can cause a variety of ailments in equids, including rhinopneumonitis (a respiratory disease usually found in young horses), abortion in broodmares, and EHM.In many horses, the first or only sign of EHV-1 infection is fever, which can go undetected.In addition to fever, other common signs of EHV-1 infection in young horses include cough, decreased appetite, depression, and a nasal discharge. Pregnant mares typically show no signs of infection before they abort, and abortions usually occur late in gestation (around eight months) but can be earlier. Abortions can occur anywhere from two weeks to several months following infection with EHV-1.Horses with EHM usually have a fever at the onset of the disease and might show signs of a respiratory infection. A few days later, neurologic signs such as ataxia (incoordination), weakness or paralysis of the fore- and hind limbs, urine retention and dribbling, loss of tail tone, and recumbency (inability to rise) develop.Herpesvirus is easily spread by nose-to-nose or close contact with an infectious horse; sharing contaminated equipment including bits, buckets, and towels; or clothing, hands, or equipment of people who have recently had contact with an infectious horse.Routine biosecurity measures, including hygiene and basic cleaning and disinfection practices, should be in place at all times to help prevent disease spread.Current EHV-1 vaccines might reduce viral shedding but are not protective against the neurologic form of the disease. Implementing routine biosecurity practices is the best way to minimize viral spread, and the best method of disease control is disease prevention.