A 3-year-old Quarter Horse gelding in Oklahoma recently tested positive for West Nile virus (WNV). The horse lives in Carter County but travels to Love County daily.The horse is unvaccinated and developed clinical signs on Oct. 16, including anxiety, muscle and muzzle fasciculations, ataxia, and fever. He has recovered.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.

Key Points Details Emotional Bond Owners form deep bonds with horses; emotions can affect judgment, requiring balance. Financial Reality Horse ownership is costly, with expenses ranging from $5,000 to $30,000 or more annually. Life Changes Major transitions like relocation or career changes may prompt selling considerations. Current Market 2025 market data highlights supply, demand, and price factors for selling horses. Evaluate Your Situation Assess your horse's needs, personal circumstances, and potential alternatives before selling. Decision Framework Create a decision matrix and consider a "six-month test" for reflection. Responsible Selling Find suitable buyers, set fair prices, and ensure transparency in transactions. Non-Negotiable Reasons to Sell Include welfare concerns, behavioral issues, permanent life changes, and aging horse needs. Conclusion Balance emotional insights and practical reasoning to decide if selling is the best option. Is Selling Your Horse the Right Decision? Exploring the Emotional Dilemma and Practical Considerations Deciding whether to sell your horse is one of the most challenging decisions a horse owner can face. Unlike most possessions, horses are living beings with whom we form deep emotional bonds. They're companions, partners in sport, sources of therapy, and often integral parts of our daily lives. Yet there come times when circumstancesfinancial, personal, or situationalforce us to seriously consider parting ways. Understanding the Emotional Bond The Human-Horse Connection The relationship between horse and owner transcends typical pet ownership. Horses are sentient beings capable of forming genuine attachments to their handlers. They recognize individual voices, respond to emotional states, and develop preferences for specific people. For many owners, their horse represents years of investment, shared achievements, and irreplaceable memories. Recognizing When Emotions Cloud Judgment It's important to distinguish between emotions that inform wisdom and emotions that cloud judgment. Some emotional reactions are signals worth heedingfor instance, a gut feeling that something isn't right about a particular buyer. Other emotional reactions might be fear-based or driven by temporary circumstances. The Financial Reality of Horse Ownership Understanding the Broader Context The horse and equine production industry in the United States represents a significant economic sector, generating a $177 billion total economic impact and supporting 2.2 million jobs[3]. The U.S. horse population stands at approximately 6.6 million horses, indicating a substantial installed base of owners managing ongoing costs[3]. The market for equestrian apparel alone is projected to grow from $6.6 billion in 2024 to $11.2 billion by 2034[3]. Breaking Down the True Cost of Horse Ownership Most horse owners significantly underestimate the annual cost of horse care. Beyond the initial purchase price, consider these ongoing expenses: boarding or pasture maintenance, feed and supplements, farrier services, veterinary care, tack and equipment maintenance, insurance, and lessons or training. For many owners, annual horse-related expenses range from $5,000 to $15,000 or more, with elite competition horses reaching $30,000+ annually. Life Changes That May Warrant Selling Major Life Transitions Certain life events naturally raise the question of whether horse ownership remains feasible or appropriate. These transitions include relocation, career changes, family changes, health changes, and changing interests. The Current Horse Market: What You Should Know 2025 Market Dynamics Recent market data provides important context for selling decisions. The 2025 Keeneland September Yearling Sale achieved a record $531.5 million in total sales across 3,070 horses, setting the highest gross ever realized at a Thoroughbred auction worldwide[1]. Realistic Price Expectations If you're considering selling, have realistic price expectations based on your horse's age, training level, and experience, current market demand, health and soundness, comparable sales of similar horses, and pedigree and bloodline. Evaluating Your Specific Situation Questions to Ask Yourself Before making a final decision, evaluate your horse's needs, your circumstances, your intentions, and potential buyers. Exploring Alternatives Before Selling Before concluding that selling is necessary, consider alternatives such as financial, time and attention, training and behavior, and lifestyle adjustments. Making the Decision: A Framework Creating Your Decision Matrix Evaluate selling through a structured decision-making process by weighting factors like financial feasibility, horse's welfare, your wellbeing, and more. The "Six-Month Test" If you're genuinely uncertain, consider giving yourself six months for reflection and changed circumstances. Notice whether your resolve to sell strengthens or weakens. If You Decide to Sell: Doing It Responsibly Finding the Right Buyer Screen potential buyers thoroughly, evaluate compatibility, and ensure documentation and trial periods are in place. Pricing Fairly and Transparently Ensure honest pricing based on current market conditions and disclose any issues with transparency to protect both you and your horse. When to Absolutely Sell: Non-Negotiable Reasons Certain situations make selling not just advisable but imperative, such as welfare concerns, behavioral safety issues, permanent life changes, and an aging horse's needs. Conclusion: Honoring Both Head and Heart Deciding whether to sell your horse requires balancing emotional wisdom and practical reasoning. Evaluate your situation honestly, consider all alternatives, and remember that sometimes the most loving decision is finding your horse a better-suited home.```html```

Explosion W, the mount who helped Britains Ben Maher to an individual gold medal at the 2020 Tokyo Olympics, is set to retire at this years London International Horse Show.The 16-year-old chestnut gelding, who is owned byCharlotte Rossetter and Pamela Wright, is one of the most successful showjumping horses in the world.As well as being crowned Olympic champions,the pair won several CSI5* competitions, including the Grand Prix at Royal Windsor Horse Show and the Longines Global Champions Tour Grand Prix in Valkenswaard. They also triumphed in the IJRC Top 10 Final in 2021.Explosion has been the horse of a lifetime, said Ben. I always knew he had something special an incredible will to win and a presence that captured everyones attention.We have shared unforgettable moments together, and it feels right to celebrate his retirement in front of a home crowd at London International Horse Show.Retirement ceremonyExplosion Ws retirement ceremony will take place in from of a packed crowd at the London International Horse Show on the evening of Sunday 21 December.Explosion W is one of the greatest showjumping horses and his achievements with Ben have been a privilege for us all to witness on a global stage, said Simon Brooks-Ward, show chairman.We are honoured that Ben, Charlotte, and Pamela have chosen London International Horse Show as the place to celebrate this remarkable horses career. It promises to be an emotional and historic occasion for everyone who loves the sport.This years London International Horse Show will take place on Thursday 18 Monday 22 December at Excel London.Main image from Tokyo Olympics FEI/Christophe Taniere.More from Your HorseBeware autumn laminitis: expert advice to keep your horse safe this season11 clipping tips for the perfect finish to your horses winter coatJoe Stockdales tips for success when jumping a horse indoorsBest things about hacking in autumn according to #Hack1000Miles challengersThe post Ben Mahers horse of a lifetime to retire at London International Horse Show appeared first on Your Horse.

Gerosynth Labs, Inc., a private biotechnology company specializing in pharmaceutical preparations for oncology and regenerative health, and parent company of Mytosynth Nutraceuticals, LLC, today announced the launch of Mytulin EQ, a next-generation equine nutritional supplement designed to support immune health, cellular vitality, and performance recovery.Developed through proprietary phytochemical research, Mytulin EQ promotes musculoskeletal strength, gastrointestinal balance, and mitochondrial rejuvenationkey factors in optimizing equine health and longevity.Mytulin EQ represents the culmination of years of translational research at the intersection of biotechnology and animal health, said Alisha ODell, CEO and Founder of Gerosynth Labs. Our goal is to bring evidence-based, naturally derived solutions to market that advance equine wellness without the limitations often associated with traditional pharmaceuticals.The proprietary formulation is derived from wild-harvested chaga mushrooms sustainably sourced from Alaskas Arctic Circle. The extreme climate conditions, combined with Gerosynths breakthrough discovery in manufacturing its formulations, produce a nutrient-dense, bioactive composition, resulting in a potent natural foundation for equine cellular support and performance optimization.Horses performing at a high level demand exceptional cellular recovery and immune resilience, said Kendall Willson, DVM, MRCVS. Mytulin EQs formulation supports both performance and long-term health, giving veterinarians and trainers a valuable new tool for sustained equine wellness.Mytulin EQ is available now at mytosynth.com in single 64 oz. pouches for $280 or three 64 oz. pouches for $540. Throughout the month of November, try it for a discounted introductory price of $220 per single pouch.

We are in an equine obesity epidemic for our horses, and it is every owners responsibility to keep their horse or ponys weight down. This might mean finding ways to help a horse lose weight, as well as ensuring they get enough exercise to prevent them piling on the pounds.Equine obesity is a huge welfare concern with many long-term health implications caused by being overweight.This is some of the ways that being fat impacts a horses body:Metabolism slows downExcess fat interferes with the horses metabolic system. Lack of exercise causes their metabolic rate to slow down and limits the opportunity to burn off calories.Fat deposits formUnless their diet is strictly managed, the horse will start to gain weight in the form of fat deposits.Fat is storedFat is stored in the abdomen, where it cant be seen, and in more superficial areas such as the crest, rump and flank, where it is easier to spot, providing you dont mistake it for muscle.Into the bloodstreamFat tissue releases substances into the bloodstream that interact with the bodys metabolic system.Damaging effectWhen there is too much fat in the body, these substances are released in large quantities which the horses body is not designed to cope with.The metabolic system becomes overwhelmed and this starts to have a damaging effect on different parts of the horses body.Have you heard about Your Horses#FitNotFat campaign? Equine obesity is an enormous welfare problem and were on a mission to provide owners and riders with the knowledge, skills and information you need to keep your horse in tip-top health. It could be life saving! FindoutmoreMain image ShutterstockRelated contentDr David Marlin explains how to ride a horse so that they burn more caloriesVet advice: 5 areas to look and see if your horse is overweightThe impact of obesity on a horses digestive healthIs your horse fat or is it muscle? This is how to tellThe post This is how being fat affects a horses body appeared first on Your Horse.

Ocala, FL World Equestrian Center Ocala has made the proactive decision to cancel the upcoming Fiddlers Turkey Run Barrel Racing event, scheduled for November 2629, following confirmed cases of Equine Herpesvirus-1 (EHV-1) in horses that attended recent events in Texas. This decision was made out of an abundance of caution and commitment to protecting the health, safety, and well-being ofSource

Austin, Texas Commissioner Sid Miller and the Texas Department of Agriculture (TDA) today issued an alert to Texas horsemen of an outbreak of Equine Herpesvirus Type 1 (EHV-1) reported by Texas veterinarians after the recent World Championship Barrel Racing (WPRA) Finals in the Waco area on November 5-9. Commissioner Miller is urging all horse owners, trainers, and venue operators who attended or were in proximity to the event, or who have recently returned from any large equine gathering in the Waco region in the last 14 days to act swiftly, monitor their animals carefully, and implement heightened biosecurity measures.This virus can spread fast, it can be deadly, and the earliest signs are often so subtle theyre easy to miss, Commissioner Miller, himself an avid horseman, said. Thats why monitoring your horses right now is critical. The quicker we identify a potential case, the better chance we have to protect not only our animals, but the entire Texas equine community.A particularly aggressive strain of EHV-1 has been confirmed by veterinary clinics in Central Texas. While investigations are ongoing, the TDA believes the situation warrants immediate attention, given the rapid spread and severe outcomes in affected horses.Those who should act immediately are those who:Have a horse that was present at the WPRA event in the Waco areaor transported one to/from that event.Have a horse that has mingled with those transported from that event.Any horse owner or facility operator who has recently participated in largemultibarn gatherings, roping jackpots, or traveled extensively enough to includethe Waco region.Clinical signs of EHV-1 can vary widely, and may include:FeverNasal discharge, coughing, or other respiratory changesDepression or lethargy.Neurological signs: stumbling or incoordination, loss of tail tone, hind-limbweakness, head tilt, recumbency.Abortions in pregnant mares.The EHV-1 virus spreads quickly and efficiently, making early precautions essential. Horses can transmit the virus directly through simple nose-to-nose contact, and infected animals may also release contagious aerosolized particles when they cough or sneeze. Indirect transmission is equally dangerous, as shared tack, grooming tools, water and feed buckets, thermometers, and other equipment can all carry the virus from one horse to another. Even humans can unintentionally act as mechanical carriers, spreading the virus on their hands, clothing, or boots.To protect your horses and the broader equine community, the TDA recommends the following immediate steps:Isolate any horse that attended the Waco event for at least 14 days from otherequines, or until cleared by a veterinarian.Suspend hauling, showing, or mixing horses from the exposure group untilfurther notice. Avoid taking exposed horses to other barns or events.Disinfect trailers, wash-racks, cross-ties, tie-areas, tack rooms, buckets,grooming tools, and any shared equipment. Use an appropriate virucidaldisinfectant.Avoid sharing tack, halters, grooming equipment, buckets, water hoses, etc., between exposed and unexposed horses.Monitor temperatures twice daily for all exposed horses and report any fever (101.5 F) or other signs to a veterinarian immediately.If any horse exhibits neurologic signs, coughing, or nasal discharge, isolate itimmediately, wear protective gear, and call your veterinarian.Keep accurate records: track which horses were present at events, theirmovement, and who handled them for contact tracing if needed.Stay in contact with your local veterinarian and keep up to date on updates fromstate veterinary authorities.Im asking every local horse rider, roper, trainer, and breeder to do their part today, Commissioner Miller added. Check your horses twice a day, isolate any exposed animals, tighten up your biosecurity, and call your vet the moment something looks off. If we work together and take this seriously, we can get ahead of this outbreak and keep our horses and our states $12.3 billion equine industry safe.How EHV WorksHorses often contract the herpes virus at a young age but do not always develop apparent clinical signs at that time. Like herpes infections in humans, the virus often goes dormant but can resurface when the horse is stressed by training, transport, competition, herd dynamics, or other health conditions.Re-activation of the latent virus results in active shedding of the virus in the horses nasal secretions. Even a healthy-looking horse can transmit the EHV-1 virus from his respiratory secretions. Horses with clinical signs shed viral particles profusely and should be isolated immediately.Direct horse-to-horse contact facilitates exposure, but the virus can also be transmitted on peoples hands, clothing and shoes, as well as grooming equipment, tack, buckets, rakes, hoses and water tanks, to name a few. It is also possible for airborne particles expelled by coughing or sneezing to transfer to horses some distance away, although no one knows exactly how far. Edited Press Release | Source: Texas Department of AgricultureThe post EHV-1 Outbreak Reported in Texas appeared first on Horse Illustrated Magazine.