An older pasture pet with severe equine asthma is predisposed to recurrent bouts of pneumoniaAnna was referred to Hagyard Equine Medical Institute after experiencing trouble breathing and pneumonialike symptoms. | Photo Courtesy Ashley WattsThe term equine asthma captures all horses with noninfectious respiratory conditions ranging from mild inflammatory airway disease to severe asthma, the latter of which was previously referred to as heaves, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), or recurrent airway obstruction (RAO). Although related, this spectrum of diseases is not necessarily continuous, meaning horses with mild or moderate equine asthma dont necessarily progress to the severe form.When horses are affected with severe equine asthma (SEA), classic clinical signs include frequent coughing, exercise intolerance, increased respiratory effort at rest, and a heaves linea ridge of enlarged abdominal muscles that runs diagonally from the point of the hip forward to the lower edge of the ribs.You might be aware of the many factors that can contribute to the development of SEA, most notably inhalation of dust, mold, and endotoxin particles generated by either hay or the environment. But have you ever considered secondary illnesses that can affect asthmatic horses? In this case report we see how a senior horse diagnosed with severe equine asthma repeatedly developed pneumonia.Anastacias Asthma AdventureAnastacia, a 22-year-old Thoroughbred mare, was examined by veterinarians at Hagyard Equine Medical Institute, in Lexington, Kentucky. Her owner, Ashley Watts, who runs a hunter/jumper boarding and training business called Liftoff Equestrian, in Versailles, Kentucky, said Anna had trouble breathing the previous summer and pneumonialike symptoms the past few winters. Watts primary veterinarian referred her to Hagyard for an examination with an internal medicine specialist.Before my appointment I thought it was really bad heaves, and I was worried the doctor at Hagyard was going to recommend euthanasia, says Watts.A complete physical examination of Anna revealed an increased respiratory rate and effort and flared nostrils with each breath. She had a heaves line, indicating a marked abdominal effort to breathe. Her heart rate was also moderately elevated, but she did not have a fever at the time of presentation. In addition, she appeared mildly dehydrated.Auscultation (listening with a stethoscope) of the lungs revealed decreased airflow to both the right and left lung fields.In addition, (we heard) wheezes, which indicate narrowing or constriction of the airways, and pleural friction rubs, which are generated as the roughened surface of the lung rubs against the pleuralining of the thorax, or chest, says Nimet Browne, DVM, MPH, Dipl. ACVIM, an internal medicine specialist at Hagyard.Bloodwork revealed a very mildly elevated white blood cell count, while serum biochemistry was within normal limits.Cases of equine asthma can have normal or high white blood cell counts, whereas pneumonia cases typically have elevated white blood cell counts, says Browne. So, seeing only a slight elevation in white blood cells was a little atypical.An ultrasound examination of the chest revealed a broad-based comet-tail artifact along the right side of the right lung, indicating pleural roughening or abnormalities in the lung surface. In addition, a larger, 2-centimeter circular area of consolidation indicated a region of the lung that was not aerated properly.Unfortunately, the one drawback of ultrasound is that it cannot penetrate air, explains Browne. Therefore, it can only show us abnormalities on the surface of the lung. If there are further abnormalities deeper within the tissues, only radiographs (X rays) can identify those. Even though there were decreased lung sounds with wheezes bilaterally (in both lungs), only the right (lung) had evidence of lung changes.Based on these results, she diagnosed Anna with an equine asthma crisis and right-sided pneumonia. Browne says asthma causes widespread bronchoconstriction as well as a moderate increase in mucous production. At the same time, the normal mechanisms of clearing the airways of normal debris and mucus are not working, so these horses are predisposed to developing pneumonia. Pneumonia can be relatively mild, as in Annas case, or much more severe, leading to pleuropneumonia (fluid accumulation within the chest cavity).Although not performed in this case, additional testing to confirm pneumonia could include chest X rays and a transtracheal wash (in which the veterinarian flushes sterile saline into the trachea, aspirates the fluid with tubing and a syringe, and evaluates it). The population of white blood cells in the transtracheal wash can help confirm pneumonia, and culturing the wash fluid can help veterinarians identify the bacterial origin of the disease. Culturing can also help identify the most appropriate antibiotic to prescribe.In this case, the mares clinical signs were so severe at the time of presentation that the transtracheal wash was not performed due to concerns that the procedure may exacerbate her clinical signs, says Browne. Thus, we elected to treat with broad-spectrum antibiotics.She adds, And while a diagnosis of equine asthma requires performing a procedure called a bronchoalveolar lavage (a lung wash), this test also could not be performed in this mare due to the severity of her clinical signs.Anna received bronchodilators to address her asthma via nebulization. | Photo Courtesy Ashley WattsAnnas Medical ManagementAnna was hospitalized at Hagyard and treated with intravenous fluids, broad-spectrum intravenous antibiotics, and anti-inflammatories (flunixin meglumine) for the pneumonia. Browne prescribed the bronchodilators albuterol and ipratropium bromide to address the asthma via nebulization.We used the Flexineb to deliver the nebulized medications, says Watts. Anna accepted the mask easily, and you could tell she felt better afterward.Browne also advised Watts to offer Anna a dietary omega-3 fatty acid supplement, which researchers have found can improve horses clinical signs and lung function.The most common treatment for equine asthma is systemic corticosteroids to control the lower airway inflammation associated with the disease process, she said. However, systemic corticosteroids can have many unwanted side effects, with the most severe being laminitis. This mare was an older horse with a history of laminitis and was suspected to also have pituitary pars intermedia dysfunction, also known as equine Cushings. As a result, systemic corticosteroids were withheld.Watts says Anna did very well at home with daily nebulization moving forward, requiring corticosteroids only sparingly for severe asthma flare-ups. She was able to taper the mares nebulizer sessions back to weekly over time.An Internists PerspectiveEquine asthma is a common respiratory disease of horses that can occur in all breeds and performance disciplines, says Browne. Mild to moderate equine asthma is seen in up to 60% of horses in some environments, while the prevalence of SEA is closer to 15%. The recurrent cough and increased respiratory effort are attributable to constriction of the airways, mucous hypersecretion, and airway inflammation following exposure to environmental triggers.Browne recommends decreasing forage-associated dust, mold, hay, and endotoxin exposures by thoroughly and properly soaking or steaming hay and feeding hay from the ground in a pan or a haynet hung outside a stall with an open top, as with a stall guard or Dutch door. In addition, she suggests feeding alternative forms of forage, such as haylage, chopped dry forage, alfalfa, silage, or completely cubed diets.In some cases owners may need to replace hay altogether and transition to a complete pelleted feed diet, Browne says. Each patient requires an individualized approach, and all of these strategies should be made after consulting with your veterinarian, as each horses case will be unique.Equine asthma, Browne cautions, typically requires long-term management with a combination of environmental and medical intervention, and some horses might require lifelong treatment. Such medications include anti-inflammatories, bronchodilators, and those that decrease mucous production and increase mucous clearance.SummaryThis case provides an example of how horses with uncontrolled SEA present to veterinarians and the aggressive therapy required to make them comfortable. The internists treated Anna with the highest level of care as outlined in the current American College of Veterinary Internal Medicine Consensus Statement.

Section Key Points Understanding Bute and Its Mechanism Bute is an NSAID blocking the COX-2 pathway, reducing pain and inflammation. The Recommended Dosage Two to four grams daily; initially intravenous for five days, then oral. The Safety Concerns of Long-Term Bute Use Risks include gastrointestinal damage, kidney impairment, and liver issues. Ethical Weighing Care involves individual assessment, regular monitoring, and veterinary guidance. Problems with Daily Administration Toxicity risk and need for comprehensive treatment plans. Exploring Safer Alternatives Consider newer NSAIDs, joint injections, therapeutic farrier work, and nutraceuticals. Practical Guidelines for Ethical Long-Term Use Baseline evaluations before use, minimum effective doses, and ongoing reassessment. The Practical Reality Balance risks with quality of life; monitor dosing and explore complementary therapies. Conclusion Ethical long-term use depends on nuanced understanding and vigilant oversight. Is Long-Term Use of Bute Ethical for Retired Horses with Lameness?When a beloved retired horse develops lameness, deciding on pain management options like Bute involves weighing ethical concerns and potential medical risks. This article explores the clinical nuances, ethical dilemmas, and possible alternatives to using Bute for managing chronic lameness in retired horses. Let's jump in!Understanding Bute and Its MechanismWhat is Bute?Bute is a well-known non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) in equine medicine. It works by blocking the COX-2 pathway, reducing inflammation and pain. It's an effective solution for inflammation-induced pain scenarios. The Recommended DosageThe official recommendation is two to four grams daily for a 1,000-pound horse. Use should initially be intravenous for up to five days, followed by oral administration.The Safety Concerns Associated with Long-Term Bute UseShort-Term vs. Long-Term AdministrationFor short-term injuries, Bute is safe for up to 14 days. For chronic issues, like retired horses' lameness, it poses greater risks and requires careful consideration.Gastrointestinal ComplicationsLong-term Bute use can damage the gastrointestinal tract due to its non-selective COX inhibition. Risks include gastric ulcers and right dorsal colitis (source). Kidney and Hepatic EffectsBute can impair kidney function, especially in dehydrated horses, raising concerns for horses with existing liver or kidney ailments (source).Ethical Weighing of Quality of Life vs. Medical RiskIndividual AssessmentEach horse is unique. A customized approach to Bute treatment involves thorough exams and blood work, providing a blueprint for ethical care.Chronic Low-Dose AdministrationSurprising? Research shows low doses over time are safer than high-dose treatments. Many cases benefit from merely two grams daily.Importance of Regular MonitoringLong-term Bute therapies should include periodic blood tests to ensure kidney and liver health, ensuring responsible drug management (source). Clear Clinical IndicationsOnly under veterinary supervision and for specific clinical needs should Bute be used. Everyday dosing without apparent health challenges could be unethical.Problems with Daily AdministrationSystemic AccumulationBute builds up in the bloodstream, increasing in toxicity risk. Even young horses experience heightened sensitivity, challenging a simplistic "daily dose" approach.The All or Nothing FallacyEnvision a middle ground: Rather than defaulting to daily Bute or enduring pain, explore a comprehensive treatment plan including non-drug methods.Exploring Safer AlternativesNewer NSAID OptionsVeterinary medicine offers newer NSAIDs with different safety profiles. It could be worth discussing with your vet for long-term management plans. Non-NSAID Pain Management Joint injections with substances like hyaluronic acid Therapeutic farrier work and hoof care Physical rehabilitation programs Nutraceuticals such as omega-3 and joint supplements Complementary therapies like acupunctureCombination ApproachesConsider multimodal approaches: Intermittent Bute, combined with joint care techniques, custom farrier work, and nutraceutical supplements.Practical Guidelines for Ethical Long-Term UseBefore Starting ButePerform baseline evaluations like blood tests to verify liver and kidney health, ensuring safety and ethical use.During TreatmentAdopt the minimum effective dose, ensure consistent hydration, and monitor the horse for any adverse signs.Ongoing AssessmentRegular reassessment is key: Continuously evaluate the necessity of Bute and explore dose reductions where impactful.The Practical Reality: Balancing Risks with BenefitsLong-term Bute use in retired horses with chronic lameness demands a thoughtful approach, balancing potential risks with meaningful quality of life improvements. Ethical use considers baseline health, monitored dosing, and exploring complementary therapies.Conclusion: Navigating the Ethical LandscapeThe question of ethical long-term Bute use ultimately depends on a nuanced understanding of each horse's unique needs. Thoughtful application and vigilant oversight can maximize both ethical treatment and the horses welfare, ensuring your beloved companion enjoys its years in stride. 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On Nov. 4, a 5-year-old Appaloosa mare in Kiowa County, Oklahoma, tested positive for West Nile virus (WNV). The unvaccinated horse developed clinical signs on Oct. 20, including ataxia, loss of balance, and falling forward. Her current status is unknown.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.

On Nov. 11, an 11-year-old Quarter Horse mare in Gladwin County, Michigan, tested positive for strangles. The horse developed clinical signs on Nov. 6, including enlarged submandibular lymph nodes, coughing, and nasal discharge. She is being quarantined, and four additional horses have potentially been exposed.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 StranglesStranglesin horses is an infection caused byStreptococcus equisubspeciesequiand spread through direct contact with other equids or contaminated surfaces. Horses that arent showing clinical signs can harbor and spread the bacteria, and recovered horses remain contagious for at least six weeks, with the potential to cause outbreaks long-term.Infected horses can exhibit a variety of clinical signs:FeverSwollen and/or abscessed lymph nodesNasal dischargeCoughing or wheezingMuscle swellingDifficulty swallowingVeterinarians diagnose horses using polymerase chain reaction (PCR) testing with either a nasal swab, wash, or an abscess sample, and they treat most cases based on clinical signs, implementing antibiotics for severe cases. Overuse of antibiotics can prevent an infected horse from developing immunity. Most horses make a full recovery in three to four weeks.A vaccine is available but not always effective. Biosecurity measures of quarantining new horses at a facility and maintaining high standards of hygiene and disinfecting surfaces can helplower the risk of outbreakorcontain one when it occurs.

The Horse and Ponies Protection Association (HAPPA) has launched a new corporate sponsorship programme with the aim of giving businesses more engaging and immersive ways to support the charitys work.The new programme offers three packages which are designed to reflect the three key stages of HAPPAs work: the rescue, rehabilitation and rehoming of neglected, abused and unwanted horses, ponies and donkeys.Companies will be able to become active partners in HAPPAs life-changing work while enjoying meaningful staff engagement and team-building opportunities at the charitys base at Shores Hey Farm in Burnley.The Rescue PackageThis entry-level partnership celebrates the beginning of every rescue horses journey. Sponsors will directly support HAPPAs vital rescue operations, helping to fund emergency callouts, veterinary assessments and initial care for newly arrived equines.Businesses will receive personalised updates and photos of their sponsored horses, regular insights through HAPPAs newsletters and magazine and the chance to enjoy guided team away days at Shores Hey Farm.These experiences offer teams the opportunity to step away from their desks and see first-hand how their companys support is changing lives.The Rehabilitation PackageFor teams looking to take their support further, the Rehabilitation Package offers a fully immersive Day on the Farm experience, giving colleagues the chance to learn what it truly takes to rehabilitate rescued horses.Participants can expect to roll up their sleeves and take part in everyday farm life, mucking out, feeding, grooming and even learning to lead a horse through an obstacle course.The experience is designed to inspire teamwork, compassion and understanding, while offering a valuable break from the pressures of the office.The Rehoming PackageThe Rehoming Package celebrates HAPPAs ultimate goal, finding every horse a lifelong, loving home.This premium partnership invites businesses to accompany horses on the final stage of their journey, helping to fund ongoing training, rehoming visits and aftercare support.Sponsors receive exclusive access to two annual team experiences, including both a guided behind-the-scenes tour and a hands-on farm day.Each partnership is recognised with a stable plaque at Shores Hey Farm and acknowledgment across HAPPAs website, magazine, and social media channels.Giving hopeEvery horse we rescue comes from a background of neglect or abuse, and its only through the generosity of our supporters that we can change those stories into ones of hope, said Sarah Arthur, chief executive officer at HAPPA.Our new corporate sponsorship packages allow businesses to see that transformation first-hand, theyll meet the horses, visit the farm and become part of each animals journey to recovery.Its about more than fundraising; its about forming genuine partnerships that change lives.For more information and to get involved click here. Image HAPPA.More from Your HorseThis is why starting a horses ridden career has nothing to do with breaking inCafeteria-style feeding and its important role in a horses diet explained *Video*Manage a spooked horse with these exercises from Richard MaxwellSimple checks to make if your horse is not losing weightThe post Equine charity launches new engaging and immersive corporate sponsorship programme appeared first on Your Horse.

Section Details Costs The Initial Investment Purchase Price $3,000 - $20,000 Essential One-Time Setup Costs Veterinary Check, Tack, Transportation $1,000 - $5,000 Pre-buy Veterinary Examination Ensure equine partner's health $250 - $500 Tack and Equipment Saddles, Bridles $500 - $2,000 Transportation and Infrastructure Bringing horse home and facilities $100 - $1,000 Understanding Annual Ownership Costs Boarding, Feeding, Veterinary Care Varies Boarding and Housing Costs Largest ongoing expense $1,200 - $9,000 annually Feed and Nutrition Expenses Size and diet specificity influence cost $1,200 - $2,500 annually Veterinary Care and Hoof Maintenance Basic care and emergencies $200 - $500 annually (basic), $120 - $1,200 (hoof care) Total Annual Cost Ranges Dependent on housing situation $3,000 - $20,000 annually (average $6,719) Backyard and Pastured Horses Home kept horses $11,538 annually Recreational Owners Recreational riders $16,460 annually Competition and Sport Horses Higher-end gear and training $36,851 annually Lifetime Financial Commitment Horse lifespan and related costs 25 years Why Costs Continue to Surge Feed price, veterinary costs, facility rates N/A Making an Informed Decision Research and budgeting N/A Exploring the Surging Costs of Horse Ownership in Today's Market Owning a horse has always been a cherished dream for equestrians and enthusiasts. However, as we move into 2025, the financial reality of horse ownership has become challenging. This blog delves into the multifaceted costs, from the initial purchase to ongoing care, allowing prospective and current owners to make informed decisions. The Initial Investment: What It Really Takes to Get Started Many prospective horse owners focus only on the purchase price of the horse, which is just the tip of the financial iceberg. Let's explore the real initial investment needed. The Horse Purchase Price The cost is generally influenced by the horse's age, breed, and training. While a beginner horse costs between $3,000 to $5,000, a seasoned competitor might run you up to $20,000 or more. [8] Essential One-Time Setup Costs In addition to buying the horse, new owners should prepare for one-time expenses such as veterinary checks, tacking equipment, and transportation. These essentials can tally between $1,000 and $5,000. For a breakdown of gear prices, explore our Jodhpur Collection. Pre-buy Veterinary Examination These crucial exams cost between $250 and $500, a small price to ensure your equine partner's health. Oftentimes, these exams can highlight potential health issues, potentially impacting future care costs. Tack and Equipment The initial outlay on tacksuch as saddles and bridlescan range from $500 to $2,000. Variations depend on the riding style, too. For example, English and Western saddles differ in price and design. Why not explore our Horse Riding Boot Collection? Transportation and Infrastructure Costs Bringing your horse home may set you back $100 to $1,000 based on distance and logistics. Additionally, infrastructure costs for those opting to set up their own facilities can be hefty. Understanding Annual Ownership Costs: The Real Financial Burden The annual costs of horse ownership far exceed the initial investment, encompassing everything from feed to veterinary care, depending on your circumstances. Breaking Down the Major Expense Categories These primary expenses include boarding, feeding, and veterinary care. Every horse owner must allot a budget for these areas. Boarding and Housing Costs Boarding is often the largest ongoing expense, varying by boarding type and location. Rates can range from pasture board at $100 per month to full-service board reaching $750 monthly. This means an annual expenditure of $1,200 to $9,000. [8] Feed and Nutrition Expenses Expenses on feed range between $1,200 and $2,500 annually. A horse's size and diet specificity significantly influence this cost. Consider premium feed options from our Horse Treats And Gifts collection. Veterinary Care and Hoof Maintenance Basic veterinary care costs between $200 and $500 annually, while emergencies can skyrocket into thousands. Hoof care is integral too, with regular farrier visits costing $120 to $1,200 annually. [8] Total Annual Cost Ranges: What Different Ownership Situations Cost Annual expenses are contingent on whether you're housing your horse at home or in a facility. Here's a closer snapshot: Backyard and Pastured Horses Those keeping horses at home should anticipate annual costs of $11,538, resulting in a lifetime commitment of around $289,000. Recreational Owners Recreational riders usually spend approximately $16,460 yearly, with lifetime costs pushing north of $412,000. Be sure to check out our Horse Riding Gloves Collection for quality gear. Competition and Sport Horses Competing seriously can set owners back about $36,851 annually, with a lifetime price tag of around $924,270. For high-end gear, our Stable Rugs are a must-see. General Annual Cost Framework Annual equine costs generally range from $3,000 to $20,000 based on care levels and competitive participation. The average sits around $6,719 annually. [8] The Lifetime Financial Commitment A horse's lifespan typically spans 25 years, presenting a substantial lifetime investment. The costs not only include routine expenses but also unforeseen emergencies and retirement care. By understanding these aspects, prospective owners can better align their financial planning. Why Costs Continue to Surge Factors like feed price inflation, increased veterinary costs, and facility rates all contribute to rising costs in the equine world. More than half of equine industry professionals pinpoint horsekeeping expenses as a leading concern. [8] Making an Informed Decision If you're considering horse ownership, thorough research and realistic budgeting are crucial. Questions such as, "Do you have space?" or "Do you plan to compete?" are vital and dictate your total costs. Explore our Horse Fly Protection products as part of your research. Conclusion Horse ownership is an enriching journey and can be incredibly rewarding if approached with financial preparedness. By accounting for possible expenses from $3,000 for basic care to over $36,000 for competitive realms, one can ensure a harmonious love affair with their equine companions.```html```

Maintaining near-normal synovial membrane stiffness might help interrupt OA-related inflammation. | Shelley PaulsonOsteoarthritis (OA) in horses affects all structures in the joint, including bone, soft tissue, and cartilage, resulting in pain, lameness, and poor performance. Researchers on a new study presented at the 2025 International Cartilage Regeneration & Joint Preservation Society World Congress, held Oct. 11-14, in Boston, Massachusetts, suggest that treating equine joints with a 2.5% injectable polyacrylamide hydrogel (iPAAG) could help preserve joint health by limiting a subtle but important change: stiffening of the synovial membrane.The synovial membrane, a thin layer of tissue that lines the joint capsule, plays a key role in joint health and inflammation. When it becomes thickened or fibrotic, which is common in equine OA, it can contribute to pain, swelling, and progressive cartilage damage. Researchers from Rush University Medical Center, in Chicago, Illinois, led by Markus Wimmer, PhD, and Mohammed AbuAlia, MD, evaluated how OA alters the equine synovial membranes mechanical properties and whether iPAAG treatment could make a difference.The researchers used a well-established experimental model of equine osteoarthritis in the middle carpal (knee) joint. The team assigned 16 horses to receive either intra-articular 2.5% iPAAG or saline. Each horse also served as its own healthy control through a contralateral (opposite) joint that underwent sham surgery, meaning surgeons skipped the carpal fragment procedure in that limb and didnt treat the joint with iPAAG or saline.They collected synovial membrane samples from all study joints and performed rheological testinga method that quantifies how tissues deform with applied stress, or how elastic or stiff they are. Compared to their healthy counterparts, OA joints treated with saline had significantly stiffer synovial membranes than their healthy counterparts. In contrast, joints treated with iPAAG maintained tissue stiffness values close to normal/healthy. In other words, while OA alone made the synovial tissue less elastic and more fibrotic, the iPAAG treatment seemed to counteract that effect, keeping the tissues mechanical properties similar to healthy joints.Take-Home MessageThe authors concluded that maintaining near-normal synovial membrane stiffness might help interrupt OA-related inflammation and degeneration. They said these findings add to a growing body of research supporting iPAAG as a treatment option to improve joint function and comfort.The abstract Shear Stiffness of Equine Synovial Membrane in Osteoarthritis And Response to 2.5% Injectable Polyacrylamide Hydrogel Treatment was part of the International Cartilage Regeneration & Joint Preservation Society World Congress and the proceedings are not yet available.

On Nov. 17, a 21-year-old Paint gelding in St. Marys County, Maryland, tested positive for equine herpesvirus-1 (EHV-1). The gelding was found down in his pasture on Nov. 12 and was unable to use his hind legs to stand. He was able to stand with the help of a sling, but he would trip and go down again while walking around a flat area. Humane euthanasia was elected at that time.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.