The Englander Hera Waterproof Country Boots: Where Style Meets Everyday Equestrian PracticalityIf youve ever stood in a muddy field, ankle-deep in regret, wishing your boots were just a little more waterproof, a little more comfortable, orlets be honesta little more stylish, then the Englander Hera Waterproof Leather Country Boots might just be the answer youve been waiting for. In a recent product review, Aaron from Just Horse Riders put these boots through their paces, and today were breaking down everything you need to know. If you want the full experience, feel free to watch now by visiting the video review here: YouTube Video Review.What Makes the Englander Hera Boots Stand Out?According to Aaron, the first thing that hits you is the premium unboxing experience. We get a nice tissue paper that makes it feel a lot more premium, he explains, setting the tone early for a boot thats clearly aiming higher than its price tag.These boots belong to the Englander Equestrian familyknown for blending rugged durability with a touch of class. Whether you're mucking out, riding, walking the dog, or simply craving warm dry toes, the Hera boots tick all the right boxes.Full-Grain Leather Built for Real Country LifeThe Hera boots are crafted from full-grain buffalo leather, making them tough enough to withstand mud, rain, brambles, and the occasional horse deciding to stand on your foot. The leather is naturally durable, and as Aaron points out in the review, its of a good quality nice and toffee, which means it not only lasts but looks fantastic while doing so.Why Leather Matters for Equestrian FootwearIf youve ever owned synthetic country boots, youll know they rarely age gracefully. Leather, on the other hand, moulds to your foot, softens over time, and handles the elements like a pro. Plus, with sealed seams and waterproof engineering, these boots offer protection far beyond basic splash-resistance.100% Waterproof for Classic UK Weather ConditionsYou know the weather. We know the weather. And Aaron definitely knows the weather. As he puts it, these boots are fully waterproof perfect for walking through rivers, long grass, and wet long grass, because we have a lot of that in the UK. Enough said.Between sealed stitching, a waterproof membrane, and treated leather, your feet stay dry whether youre hacking out in drizzle or getting ambushed by a puddle pretending to be shallow.A Comfort-Led Interior Youll Appreciate on Long DaysInside the boot, youll find a breathable mesh lining paired with a cushioned PU-moulded footbed. Aaron mentions a lot of padding on the inside designed for all-day wear. And unlike some heavy country boots that feel like strapping bricks to your legs, these ones are relatively light compared to some other country boots.Perfect for Riding, Walking, or Everyday Yard TasksWhether you're mounting up, heading out with the dog, or simply braving a wet walk to the muck heap, the Hera boots offer the kind of comfort that makes them your new favourite companion for countryside adventures.All-Terrain Grip You Can TrustOne standout feature? The shock-absorbent, slip-resistant rubber sole. Aaron highlights that the sole is really grippy going to help you not slip on your backside if you're going down any wet hills, a visual that every rider and countryside walker can appreciate.This traction makes them ideal not only for country walks but for safer mounting, dismounting, and stable work.Designed to Fit: Standard and Wide Calf OptionsFinding boots that fit properly shouldnt feel like a treasure hunt. Luckily, the Hera boots come in both standard and wide calf widths. Aaron encourages customers to use the full size chart available on the listing for the most accurate fit.Dont forgetif you need complementary apparel to complete your outfit, you can shop collections like:Jodhpurs & Riding TightsRiding BootsRiding GlovesSocks & AccessoriesFunctional Features That Riders Will LoveAaron emphasises a detail many riders overlook: the boots shaping around the ankle. Some boots tend to go straight down and not have this curved this can cause problems when you're trying to get your foot in. The Hera boot solves that with smart shaping for easier entry without that bulky, blocky feel.Stretchable V Panel for Easy On and OffNo more wrestling your boots off at the end of a long day. The stretchable V-panel at the calf offers a smoother entry and exitgreat when your hands are cold, or you've already taken one boot off and immediately regretted it.Functional Laces (Yes, Really!)The laces are actually functional some boots are just for show, Aaron points out. These allow for light adjustment around the calf, though he jokes he isnt sure when youd need to tighten themunless the rains coming in that hard.How to Care for Your Hera BootsGood boots deserve good care. Thankfully, the Hera boots arent high maintenance. Aaron advises: Just wipe them down with a wet cloth try not to let the mud dry on the boots.Leather conditioner is optional but helpful if they start looking a bit weathered. With basic care, your boots will last yearsand dont forget, they come with a 12-month fair-use warranty.Why Riders Love These BootsBetween the waterproof design, durable construction, breathable interior, and stylish finish, these boots offer impressive value. They're built for real lifenot just the pretty parts of equestrian living.Pair them with your favourite riding essentials such as:Daily Horse SupplementsStable RugsTurnout RugsFly ProtectionWhere to Buy the Englander Hera Waterproof Country BootsIf youre ready to step up your boot game (literally), you can buy now or shop now directly from the product page:Englander Hera Waterproof Leather Country Boots Shop HereWatch the Full Review for the Real ExperienceThis article covers the highlights, but nothing beats seeing Aaron talk through the details himself. His honest insightsand a few humorous momentsbring the boots to life in a way only a rider can. Feel free to watch now at the link below:Englander Hera Product Review on YouTubeFinal ThoughtsThe Englander Hera Waterproof Country Boots combine comfort, durability, and style in a package built for everyday equestrian life. Whether you're trekking through long grass, riding in drizzle, or simply chasing the dog down a muddy path, these boots are ready for anything.They look good, feel good, and they perform brilliantlyeverything a country boot should offer. If youre on the fence, go ahead and watch now or take the plunge and buy now. Your feet will thank you.

Irish junior event rider Ben Connors has been officially confirmed as World No.1 in the FEI Eventing Juniors World Rankings (Under-18), following an outstanding 2025 season in which he delivered top-class performances for Team Ireland at home and abroad.The latest FEI rankings place Connors at the head of the Eventing Juniors World Rankings with 123 points, reflecting a season that included four top 10 finishes at CCI3* level and a 10th-place individual finish at the FEI Eventing European Championships for Young Riders in Strzegom, Poland, where he also helped Ireland win team silver.Connors also made a successful step up to four-star level, finishing 7th on his CCI4* debut at Ballindenisk International 2.A lifelong rider from Calverstown, Co Kildare, Connors grew up in a horse-mad family and has been competing since childhood. He first came to international attention as a pony rider (Under 16), winning team bronze and individual silver at the FEI European Pony Championships in Strzegom in 2021 with the Connemara gelding Cornafest Fred. He then went one better at the European Pony Championships in 2022 with a Team Gold and a second individual Silver medal performance.Connors finished off his pony career in 2023 with a Team Bronze medal having accumulated 5 medals.Connors competes predominantly on Irish Sport Horses bred and produced through his familys OLS programme, including OLS King Aragon, OLS Queen Bee and OLS Pixie Hollow. He purchased and produced his prolific European pony Cornafest Fred from a 6 year old and recently purchased Zuperlative which he has produced to 3 star level.From a unique Irish eventing family, Ben is the youngest of four riding siblings. His older sisters Alex, Zara and Shannon have all represented Ireland in eventing, making the Nelson/Connors family one of the very few Irish households where four members have pulled on the green jacket in international competition and all four have won medals at European underage level.Ben Connors said: Its a huge honour to be ranked World No.1 junior I honestly didnt expect to see my name at the top of the FEI list. None of this would be possible without my family, my trainers, sponsors and the owners who trust me with their horses and the support from Eventing Ireland and Horse Sport Ireland. The horses have been unbelievable this year and Im excited to keep learning and hopefully step up to more senior teams in the future.Proud parents Michelle Nelson and Kieran Connors added:Ben has worked incredibly hard for this, we are very proud of what he and his horses have achieved. He spent the summer working with Irish Olympian Susie Berry in the UK and he is very thankful for the time she invested in him. To see a young Irish rider from Co Kildare leading the world junior rankings is very special, it was a surprise to us when it was announced this week, we just got a phone call from a family friend saying she had seen it online. It speaks to the strength of the Irish eventing system, from pony level right up to the European/World/Olympic Championships. This year Ireland have managed to win a Team silver medal at senior medal, a Team silver medal at Under 21, have 3 Young riders ranked in the top 30 World rankings and have been awarded the inaugural Under 25 World Championships in 2026 at Millstreet.The post Connors delight as Ben reaches world number one in Junior FEI rankings appeared first on .

Discover the Englander Athena Riding Boots: Comfort, Style, and Stretch You Wont BelieveIf you love riding boots that look smart, feel comfortable, and dont require hours of maintenance, youre going to want to watch now because Aaron from Just Horse Riders has put the Englander Equestrian Athena Tall Riding Boots to the test. In his own words, these boots offer a really, really lovely fitted look thanks to one impressive feature: stretch. And lots of it.This article breaks down everything you need to know about these popular synthetic long boots, expanding on Aarons hands-on review while giving you plenty of reasons to buy now if youre on the fence.What Makes the Athena Boots Stand Out?One of the first things Aaron points out is that while the material doesn't look stretchy at first glance, this whole panel is stretchy right up until the ankle area. That means a custom-feeling fit without the hassle of breaking them in. Whether you're new to riding or simply tired of battling stiff boots, thats a serious win.The Vegan-Friendly BonusThe Athena boots are made from synthetic vegan leather, meaning no animal materials and extremely easy care. Aaron explains it simply: They don't need any maintenance literally wipe them down. And if you're a rider who knows what mud, arena footing, and horse poo can do to stitching, youll appreciate how durable these materials are.A Boot That Works for Real RidersEnglander Equestrian designed these boots for both fun, everyday riding and competitions ideal whether you're hacking out, schooling, or showing. You can explore the full brand range here: Englander Equestrian Collection.Lets Talk Comfort: Padding, Sole, and FitInside the boot, riders will find a soft padded interior and a cushioned rubber sole. Aaron describes them as really, really comfortable, thanks to the supple feel inside and the flexibility through the calf.Stretch That Adapts to YouOne of the most talked-about features is the elasticated calf panel. For riders whove struggled finding a boot that fits properly, this is huge. As Aaron puts it, the stretch makes it a lot easier to find a boot that fits calves because we all come in different shapes and sizes.Whether your calf is slim, muscular, or somewhere in between, the boot adapts especially helpful for growing young riders or adults whose calf size changes throughout the year.Available in Adult and Child SizesThe Athena boots come in: Childrens sizes (UK 113) perfect for Pony Club riders Adult sizes (UK 48) with both standard and wide calf fitsYou can explore the boots below: Adults: View Adult Athena Boots Kids: View Child Athena BootsEasy-Care Boots That Save You TimeOne of the standout benefits of synthetic boots is how little you need to do to keep them clean. As Aaron says, all they require is a wet cloth to wipe them down boom, end of story. No polishing. No conditioning. No fuss.Why Wiping Down MattersWhile the boots are durable, Aaron reminds riders that mud and horse urine can damage stitching over time. A quick wipe-down helps keep that stitching intact much longer. This keeps your boots looking newer while protecting your investment.Perfect for Everyday Riding and CompetitionsAthena boots offer a leather-look finish despite being synthetic. During the review, Aaron points out, They look like leather even though they're not. That gives you the polished, smart look suitable for shows without the higher price or upkeep associated with traditional leather boots.A Boot for Every RiderFrom young Pony Club stars to adults working on their canter transitions, the Athena boots deliver performance and comfort. If you're building your full riding outfit, dont forget to shop essentials like: Jodhpurs: Shop Jodhpurs Collection Boots: Horse Riding Boot Collection Gloves: Shop Riding Gloves Socks: Shop Riding SocksUnboxing Experience: The Little Details MatterAaron highlights the branded tissue paper in the box, calling it a nice little touch. Its a small detail, but it shows the thought behind the presentation especially if you're gifting a pair.Signature BrandingThe boots feature the Englander Equestrian logo on both the heel and the calf, giving them a premium identity without being overly flashy.Practical Zip DesignThe full-length rear zip makes the boots easy to put on and take off, whether you're rushing to beat the rain or swapping boots before heading home. Aaron also shows the protective zip panel designed to prevent your calf from getting caught a problem every tall-boot rider knows too well.Why Riders Love These BootsJust Horse Riders has received a lot of good feedback on these boots already. Riders appreciate the comfort, the fit, the weight, and the low maintenance all essential for busy equestrians.Great for All Seasons and Yard WorkPair your boots with seasonal must-haves for yard life: Stable rugs: Browse Stable Rugs Turnout rugs: Shop Turnout Rugs Fly protection: Fly Protection CollectionWatch the Full Review for More InsightsIf you want to see the stretch panel in action, the padding up close, or the leather-look finish, Aarons full product review is a must-see. Watch now on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cmtgXO0UtyEFinal Thoughts: Should You Buy the Athena Boots?If you're looking for riding boots that are comfortable, stretchy, easy to clean, and available for both kids and adults, the Athena boots are absolutely worth a look. As Aaron says, I really, really like these boots, and the customer feedback backs that up.Ready to upgrade your footwear? Click below to shop now: Adults: Buy the Adult Athena Boots Kids: Buy the Child Athena Boots

Aspect Details Naming a Horse Personal experience, can change name depending on breed, registry, and competition history. Reasons for Name Change Registered name doesn't suit, previous owner name, rescue adoption, competition/social media appeal. Legality Most registries allow name changes with certain rules. Breed Registry Rules - AMHA Name changes allowed once, with no registered progeny and consent; max 25 characters; return original certificate. Breed Registry Rules - AQHA $55 fee, allowed if horse hasn't earned awards/competed, sound-alike names allowed. Breed Registry Rules - USEF $60 fee, change via USEF account system. Breed Registry Rules - U.S. Trotting Association Changes allowed if horse hasn't been bred/raced. Breed Registry Rules - Thoroughbreds Restrictions on initials-only names, permission for living person names, protection for famous names. International Rules (FEI) Allows National Sport Horse Name, no $1,000 fee. Steps to Change Name Review rules, select new name, file request, return old registration, await approval. Barn Name Changes Easy and free, allows for more personal daily use name. Pros of Name Change Fresh start, meaningful name, better event/social identification. Cons of Name Change Registry limitations if horse has competed, possible costs, potential confusion. Tips for New Name Keep short and unique, consider personality/breed/color, avoid famous names. Final Thoughts Renaming is personal, ensure it aligns with your and horse's journey. Is It Okay to Change Your Horse's Name? A Guide to Renaming Your Equestrian CompanionNaming a horse is an intimate experience for any horse owner, whether it's a spirited new foal, a reliable companion from a rescue, or simply a beloved steed with a name that no longer feels right. The question arises: Can you change your horse's name? The answer is a resounding yesmost of the time you can! However, it all depends on breed, registry, and competition history.Why Would You Want to Change a Horses Name?There are several reasons horse owners consider a name change: The horses registered name doesnt suit themit might be too long or tongue-twisting. The existing name derived from a previous owner or breeder may not resonate with you. If you're adopting a rescue, a fresh start with a new name could be ideal. A name change might help in competitions or social media, making it slicker to call out.Changing a name is not an uncommon affair. The American Quarter Horse Association (AQHA) reported 2,253 name changes in 2016, reflecting its commonality in the equestrian world. [1]Can You Legally Change a Horse's Name?Yes! Most registries allow name changes, although there are rules to follow.Breed Registry RulesEach breed registry has its norms. Heres a glimpse of the key aspects:American Morgan Horse Association (AMHA) Name changes are permissible once, provided the horse has no registered progeny and with dam owner's written consent. Names cant exceed 25 characters or replicate existing Morgan names. The original registration certificate needs to be returned with the application. [2]American Quarter Horse Association (AQHA) Names can be changed for $55, provided the horse hasn't earned awards or competed. Sound-alikes are allowed if spelled differently (e.g., Cool Cash vs. Kool Cash).USEF (United States Equestrian Federation) Changing a name costs $60 and can be done easily via the USEF account system. [3]U.S. Trotting Association (Standardbreds) Name changes allowed if the horse hasnt been bred or raced. [4]Thoroughbreds Restrictions include initials-only names and the need for permission when living persons' names are used. Famous horse names often have protection rights. [5]International Rules (FEI)The Fdration Equestre Internationale (FEI) allows the use of a National Sport Horse Name, having eliminated the hefty $1,000 fee, simplifying the procedure internationally. [6]Steps to Change a Horses Name Review Registry Rules: Check the specific regulations of your horses breed registry. Select a New Name: Ensure the new moniker ticks all boxes for registry compliance. File a Name Change Request: Fill in the official form and pay the applicable fee. Return Old Registration (if necessary): Some registries mandate the return of the original papers. Await Approval: The registry processes your request, updating their records accordingly.Can You Change a Horses Barn Name?Absolutely! Changing a barn name is a breeze. Unlike registered names, altering a barn name incurs no costs or paperwork. Many owners prefer a shorter, more personal name for daily use. [7]What Are the Pros and Cons of Changing a Horses Name?Pros It gives your equine friend a fresh slate, particularly in cases of adoption or rescue. An opportunity for a more meaningful and personal name. Makes your horse more identifiable in events or social content.Cons Some registries may clamp down if the horse has competed or produced offspring. Administrative changes may be costly and time-consuming. Confusion may arise if a known horses name is altered, particularly among loyal fans or breeders.Tips for Choosing a New NameWhen picking a new name: Keep it short and easily pronounced. Ensure its unique, not doppelganger to another registered horse. Factor in the horses personality, breed, or color. Avoid names that could be mistaken for famous equines or sound alike to popular names.Final ThoughtsChoosing whether to rename your horse is a personal choice, often resulting in a thoughtful new moniker. By adhering to registry guidelines, most owners will find its perfectly acceptable to pursue this change for a fresh start, a new beginning, or just a better fitting label for their cherished companion.Ultimately, the name should symbolize you and your horses journey together. Remember, while horses care little for their names, the bond you share transcends any label or title. [7]```html```

On Nov. 13, a 16-year-old Morgan gelding at a boarding facility in Lancaster County, Nebraska, tested positive for equine influenza. The horse developed clinical signs on Nov. 7, including a snotty nose and cough. He is currently recovering.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 Equine InfluenzaEquine influenzais a highly contagious respiratory disease that infects horses, ponies, and other equids, such as donkeys, mules, and zebras. The virus that causes it is spread via saliva and respiratory secretions from infected horses. Horses are commonly exposed via horse-to-horse contact; aerosol transmission from coughing and sneezing; and contact with humans contaminated hands, shoes, or clothes or contaminated tack, buckets, or other equipment.Clinical signs of equine influenza infection can include a high fever (up to 106F); a dry, hacking cough; depression; weakness; anorexia; serous (watery) nasal discharge; and slightly enlarged lymph nodes. Consider monitoring your horses health at shows by taking his temperature daily, which can help you pick up on signs of infection early and take appropriate measures to reduce disease spread.Vaccinationis an important and inexpensive way to protect your horse. US Equestrian requires proof that horses have had an equine influenza vaccination within the six months prior to attending organization-sanctioned competitions or events. Your veterinarian can help you determine what other vaccines your horse might benefit from.In addition to vaccinating, following strictbiosecurity protocolscan help reduce your horses chance of infection and disease. Such measures include quarantining new equine arrivals at barns, disinfecting buckets and equipment, and preventing nose-to-nose contact between horses.

One horse in Pinal County, Arizona, recently tested positive for equine herpesvirus-1 (EHV-1) and was euthanized. The horse had no known direct exposure or epidemiological link to the Womens Professional Rodeo Association outbreak centered in Waco, Texas, or any of the previously reported quarantined premises in Arizona.Eight additional horses have 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.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.

On Nov. 25, a 5-year-old mare at a boarding facility in Lacombe County, Alberta, tested positive for strangles. The mare developed clinical signs on Nov. 23, including fever, swollen lymph nodes, and respiratory noise. She is currently recovering.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.

On Oct. 31, the National Veterinary Services Laboratories confirmed findings of vesicular stomatitis New Jersey virus (VSNJV) in horses on two separate premises in Cochise County, Arizona.Since then, the two affected premises in Cochise County have been released from quarantine, and two new cases have been reported, including one case in Gila County and one in Santa Cruz County.The last outbreak of VSV in the U.S. occurred from May 2023 through January 2024, affecting 319 premises across California, Nevada, and Texas. VSV circulates annually between livestock and insect vectors in southern Mexico and only occasionally results in incursion to the U.S.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 Vesicular StomatitisVesicular stomatitis is a viral disease of horses, donkeys, mules, cattle, swine and New World camelids that occurs in the Western Hemisphere. It is named for the characteristic vesicular lesions it causes in the form of blisters, crusts and ulceration of the lips, muzzle, nose, tongue, ears, sheath, teats and/or coronary band. The virus is transmitted by biting midges and therefore is seasonal.Clinical Signs for vesicular stomatitis include:Vesicle formation leading to ulcerative lesions on the lips, muzzle, nostrils and tongue. The tongue is often the most severely affected area.Ulceration of the inner surface of the lips.Crusting of the muzzle, nostrils, and/or inside the ears.Excessive salivation secondary to the oral lesions.Difficulty picking up and chewing feed.Lameness due to painful erosions on the coronary band.Lesions can occur on the udder, sheath and inside of the ear.Lesions can develop secondary infections resulting in slow-to-heal wounds.Animals on pastures are at increased risk of vesicular stomatitis.Initial diagnosis is based on recognition of characteristic vesicular lesions. Infection is confirmed via laboratory testing for serum antibodies and/or virus identification in fluid samples from active lesions. Veterinarians are required to report suspected cases to state/federal animal health officials who will direct sample submission to an approved regulatory laboratory for diagnostic testing.There is no specific treatment for vesicular stomatitis. Best practices include implementing good biosecurity and treating affected horses with pain relievers, anti-inflammatories and supportive care as recommended by a veterinarian.Isolating all affected animals and placing the premise on immediate quarantine is required until all horses have fully recovered and no active lesions are present. The State Veterinarian will work with the local veterinarian to determine and implement necessary quarantine procedures.

On Nov. 14, a 20-year-old Haflinger mare in Wellington County, Ontario, tested positive for strangles after developing a fever and a draining tract under her jaw. Three horses have 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.

Ocala, FL The countdown to 2026 begins at World Equestrian Center Ocala (WEC) with two signature New Years Eve experiences to welcome the year ahead in style. Guests are invited to a family-friendly evening at the New Years Eve Dance Party in Exposition Center 1 or an elegant culinary celebration at Stirrups Restaurant. Families and friends of all ages can ring in the new year at theSource