A young horse who was found severely underweight with his ribs and hips clearly visible and a dull, lacklustre coat is at the heart of the Mare and Foal Sanctuarys Christmas appeal.Bourbon, a two-year-old Arab colt, was discovered alone in a barren field in Cornwall and was taken to the charitysBeech TreesVeterinary and Welfare Centrein Newton Abbot.Bourbon was in a desperate situation, said senior field officer Leah Brock, who helped coordinate his rescue operation.The field was overgrazed with no real grass for him to eat. He was extremely thin and we suspected there were underlying health conditions that needed urgent, specialist investigation.Despite how he must have felt, he was calm throughout and took everything in his stride. When he arrived at the Sanctuary, we were all shocked that he just walked quietly off the lorry.Weight lossBourbon weighed 120kg less than a horse of his age, type and height should and he continued to lose weight on arrival at Beech Trees. He was placed on a structured recovery plan which included a gentle feeding programme with fibre-based feeds twice a day, unlimited hay and carefully controlled access to grass to avoid colic and other complications.Blood tests showed that his liver wasnt functioning properly and we believe it was damaged. We started a supplement regime to help his liver to heal,explained Leah.Vets alsoinvestigated a subtle head tilt with x rays and neurological exams, checking Bourbons neck mobility, limb placement and tail response to rule out more serious nerve problems.Further tests are still ongoing.Lovely temperamentHe is a lovely youngster, said horse care team member Georgina Ballard.He thrives on human interaction. Hes very gentle and sweet. You wouldnt know he hadnt had much handling. Aside from not picking up his feet or leading initially, he behaves like a well-handled horse, with no fear of humans.Bourbon now lives with a herd of young horses at one of the Sanctuarys sites. He continues to receive specialist care and staff are aware that he has a long road to recovery ahead. His storyhighlights the challenge of equine welfare this winter as the cost of living and climate pressures bite. Bourbon is continuing to recover at a Sanctuary site in Devon.Appeal for donationsAs the nights draw in and the temperatures drop, we know that there are still many horses and ponies out there like Bourbon, who may need our help, said Dawn Vincent, director of fundraising and communications at The Mare and Foal Sanctuary.We are deeply grateful to our supporters, because without them we simply could not respond to these emergencies. Their generosity has given Bourbon a second chance and a safe, loving home this Christmas, but there are many more still in need.Without our supporters, more lives would be lost, and more animals would continue to suffer.As we look back over our busy year, were humbled by how many horses and ponies are now safe and thriving because of public kindness but Bourbons story shows that our work to protect them must continue.This winter, were asking people to give what they can so that we can continue to be there for the next Bourbon who needs us.To watch the Christmas appeal or make a donation click here.Related contentJingle bell trot: The age-old link between horses and the sound of ChristmasOpen the Your Horse Christmas Advent Calendar!Charity calls for urgent help due to equine abandonment crisis9 critical things to get right when youre taking care of a horseThe post Dangerously underweight colt with liver damage fronts charitys Christmas appeal appeared first on Your Horse.

Horse Sport Ireland (HSI) has revised its planned 2025 High Performance (HP) levy, following feedback from athletes and stakeholders over recent days.The organisation has reaffirmed its commitment to maintaining a stable, transparent and sustainable funding model for Irelands High Performance programmes, in line with Sport Ireland investment requirements.The revision has reduced the cost of the new levy by 25%.Part of the new High Performance levy was originally designed to have been ring fenced to fund entries into Nations Cup events, as some athletes had previously expressed a desire for HSI to fund this activity directly.However, since the new model was launched last week, HSI has received significant feedback from athletes in relation to how certain costs such as Nations Cup entry fees, should be treated.In response to this athlete feedback, Horse Sport Ireland today confirms that it is amending the HP Levy as follows:Revised Levy Reflecting Athlete Feedback 36.50 ex VAT (45 inc VAT) HSI will not fund Nations Cup entry fees, with these costs instead covered directly by owners, or by athletes as is currently the case. Maintains compliance with Sport Irelands funding criteria while reducing the cost HP Levy cost to athletes.We have listened carefully to the concerns expressed by athletes and stakeholders in the past few days and have reduced the High Performance levy by 25%, said Horse Sport Ireland Chief Executive Denis Duggan. The amended option reflects both the needs of the athletes to have a lower levy amount and the financial realities of running a High Performance programme.Following the Tokyo Olympic cycle, Sport Ireland advised Horse Sport Ireland that a more secure funding model was essential to ensure continued investment in equestrian HighPerformance sport. A key requirement of Sport Irelands 2025 investment framework is that national governing bodies generate 20% of High Performance funding from within the sport itself, ensuring long-term financial stability and reducing reliance on unpredictable external contributions. This levy ensures this funding.HSI has decided to apply the new levy for two key reasons. Firstly, and as stated above, the sport itself needs to partly fund its High Performance programmes in order to unlock the required funding from the State. Secondly, the current model, which relies on key affiliates contributing a fixed annual amount for High Performance equestrian sport in Ireland is broken, as these affiliates have stopped remitting the necessary funds to HSI.To note, Showjumping Ireland (SJI) historically contributed 100,000 annually from its International Fund levy. No contribution has been remitted for 2023, 2024 or 2025, resulting in 300,000 in unpaid funds. This is despite SJI continuing to deduct its International Fund levy, a sliding scale of 10% to 5% applied to prize money across competitions, as outlined in its own rule book.Dressage Ireland (DI) traditionally contributed 25,000 annually, and 50,000 in an Olympic year. No contribution was made in 2024, despite it being an Olympic cycle, further demonstrating the unreliability of the affiliate contribution model. Eventing Ireland have contributed up to 2024, and Eventing Ireland have advised HSI they do not have financial or operational resources to undertake a HP owners programme in lieu of a direct financial contribution to HSI.Due to the inconsistency and uncertainty of contributions from the Affiliates, Horse Sport Ireland cannot allow the State investment to be lost as it would put the entire Olympic Equestrian programme in doubt.In this context, the new High Performance levy is a necessary tool and was developed as a straightforward and transparent mechanism to secure the funding necessary to run elite programmes and support Irish athletes competing internationally. It ensures that elite programmes are not reliant on external levies and supports the long-term sustainability of Irish equestrian sport at the highest level. The High Performance levy cannot be reduced below 36.50 ex VAT, as doing so would fail to meet Sport Irelands minimum requirement for internally generated funding. Falling below this threshold would place all High Performance investment at risk and would undermine Irelands ability to plan and deliver programmes across the Olympic cycle. All funds raised from the HP Levy go directly into the High Performance Programme.In accordance with the new constitution, Horse Sport Ireland has an advisory forum structure in which issues such as this can be discussed in advance. Regrettably, Show Jumping Ireland and Dressage Ireland have decided not to participate in the High Performance Forum for the past two years.At Horse Sport Ireland, we recognize the importance of collaboration and open dialogue with all our stakeholders. While we understand that the proposed levy may not be welcomed by everyone, it is a necessary step to ensure the financial sustainability to provide the continued support to High Performance in Equestrian sport. As we move into the New Year, I am looking forward to engaging with the Affiliates and other key stakeholders to foster constructive discussions and build stronger, long-term relationships within the sector, said Interim Chair of Horse Sport Ireland Dr. Pamela Byrne.Dr. Byrne added that after years of uncertainty regarding funding for High Performance, it is crucial for us to take proactive measures to secure the Sport Ireland investment. We are committed to ensuring that our approach creates a reliable and sustainable income stream for High Performance programmes, ultimately benefiting the sport as a whole.The post Horse Sport Ireland Announces Revised High Performance Levy Following Athlete Feedback Levy Reduced by 25% appeared first on .

Section Key Points What is PSSM2? Muscle disorder in horses, no defined genetic mutation, symptoms include muscle stiffness and weakness, genetic roots are unclear. The Current State of PSSM2 Genetic Testing Genetic testing scrutinizes genes like MYOT, FLNC, MYOZ3; no established link with PSSM2 diagnoses via muscle biopsy. Breed-Specific Findings Gene variants equally prevalent in affected and unaffected horses, appear in ancient and modern breeds without disease signs. Veterinary and Scientific Community Warnings BEVA warns against clinical or breeding decisions based on these tests; no scientifically validated test for PSSM2 exists. Complicating Factors Behind the Controversy Polygenic, multifactorial nature; breed differences; lack of peer-reviewed validation. Guidance for Horse Owners and Breeders Muscle biopsy and clinical evaluation preferred; genetic tests should not be sole basis for decisions; consult veterinarians. The Role of Diet and Management Dietary changes can help, emphasizes clinical management's importance alongside diagnostics. Conclusion Exercise caution with genetic testing, stick to established diagnostic practices, rely on veterinary guidance. Understanding the Controversy: The Unreliability of PSSM2 Genetic Testing in Equines Polysaccharide Storage Myopathy Type 2 (PSSM2) has ruffled quite a few feathers in the equine community, primarily because of the unreliability of genetic testing. While genetic tests for PSSM2 are commercially available, they have faced significant backlash due to their questionable validity. What is PSSM2? PSSM2 is a muscle disorder in horses, much like PSSM1 but without a defined genetic mutation. Horses with PSSM2 often show symptoms such as muscle stiffness and weaknessa stark indication of abnormal muscle glycogen storage. To date, its genetic roots remain obscure and might be multifactorial in nature. The Current State of PSSM2 Genetic Testing The availability of genetic testing panels that promise to identify variants linked with PSSM2 has stirred debate. These tests scrutinize genes such as MYOT, FLNC, and MYOZ3. However, no significant link has been established between these variants and PSSM2 diagnoses confirmed via muscle biopsy, deemed the gold standard in diagnosis (source: Equine Veterinary Journal). Breed-Specific Findings One comprehensive study in the Equine Veterinary Journal revealed that suspect gene variants were equally prevalent in both affected and unaffected horses, further debunking the tests' reliability. Even more fascinating is that these genetic markers appear in both ancient and modern horse breeds with no signs of disease whatsoever. Veterinary and Scientific Community Warnings The British Equine Veterinary Association (BEVA) has guided against basing any clinical or breeding decisions on these tests (BEVA statement). They stress that no scientifically validated test for PSSM2 currently exists. Misguided reliance on these tests can lead to misdiagnosis and unnecessary measures such as euthanasia. A Closer Consideration Professor Richard Piercy from the Royal Veterinary College cautions that while aligning a horses clinical symptoms with genetic test results is tempting, the existence of genetic variants in healthy horses highlights the tests lack of specificity and predictability (source). Their usage can potentially mislead decisions. Complicating Factors Behind the Controversy Polygenic and Multifactorial Nature: The condition likely includes multiple genes and environmental triggers, making genetic tests insufficient. Breed Differences: Certain breeds like Connemara ponies carry genetic markers without showing disease signs, showing a lack of impactful evidence. Lack of Peer-Reviewed Validation: Without proper vetting or publication in scientific journals, these tests lack credibility (reference). Guidance for Horse Owners and Breeders While the genetic testing arena is evolving, muscle biopsy and clinical evaluation by a veterinarian remain the preferred diagnostic approach. Genetic tests should never stand alone in breeding or treatment decisions. Engaging and informed dialogue with your veterinarian is crucial. The Role of Diet and Management For symptoms aligned with PSSM2, some horses respond proactively to dietary adaptations involving protein-rich meals and targeted amino acid supplements. This highlights the critical importance of clinical management in tandem with diagnostics (source). Conclusion As the controversy around PSSM2 genetic testing continues, it's imperative that horse owners exercise caution. The push for validated and scientifically backed tests is ongoing. In the meantime, sticking to established diagnostic practices and relying on veterinary expertise is the safest strategy. The world of equine supplements and management remains as rich and complex as ever, emphasizing the value in comprehensive, well-researched horse care.```html```

Consider a horse choking to be an emergency, although a veterinarian can usually resolve it with prompt actionSigns of choke include nasal discharge, stretched neck, and attempts to swallow. Photo: Haylie Kerstetter/The HorseEsophageal obstruction, routinely referred to as choke, is considered an equine emergency. It often results from feed or a foreign object getting lodged in the esophagus. Types of feed often associated with choke include hay, grain, and/or beet pulp. However, choking horses can present with a variety of feedstuffs, including treats, as well as nonfeedstuffs (such as wood and shavings). In addition, geriatric horses can be more prone to choke.1-4When a Horse ChokesSome causes of choke include: eating quickly (bolting), dental issues (worn or missing teeth, dental disease), foreign objects, dehydration, and recent sedation.Clinical signs of choke are often associated with the horses inability to swallow, leading to a buildup of saliva and feed in the pharynx that often exits through the nostrils. This results in the classic frothy, feed-tinged nasal discharge seen with these cases. Horses can also exhibit signs of pain similar to colic.Other signs include coughing, stretching out the neck, hypersalivation, agitation, attempting to swallow, inappetance, and a palpable swelling on the left side of the neck.1-4Treating a Horse for ChokeIf you suspect choke, call your vet immediately. The longer an episode continues, the more likely complications could result.1While waiting for your practitioner to arrive, remove feed and water from the stall/pen, and try to keep your horse calm.Veterinarians often start with a thorough physical exam and then administer sedation. Sedation allows passing of a nasogastric tube; this is the best way to confirm choke. In a nonchoking horse the tube passes from the nostril to the pharynx, into the esophagus, and down to the stomach. With a choking horse the tube stops once it hits the esophageal obstruction. Keeping the horses head low during this procedure allows fluid to exit the nostrils and minimizes aspiration.Next steps typically involve performing a gentle water lavage of the obstruction through the tube. If the choke cant be relieved in the field, or there is concern about damage to the esophageal mucosa or aspiration pneumonia, your veterinarian might refer your horse to a hospital for an endoscopic exam and ultrasound.Endoscopy allows practitioners to evaluate the esophageal mucosa for damage or potential secondary complications (such as strictures, etc.). An endoscopic exam also allows visualization of the obstructions cause and gives a continued opportunity to relieve it. In cases of potential aspiration pneumonia, the veterinarian will perform a thoracic ultrasound. In a small percentage of cases, horses need general anesthesia or a few days at the hospital to resolve a choke.Once resolved, practitioners will outline a refeeding schedule and a management plan for your horse.Preventing Future ChokeSteps you can take to help prevent a future episode include: not feeding following sedation (wait until your horse is awake); using a slow feeder if your horse bolts feed; and ensuring regular veterinary dental care.Take-Home MessageIn a perfect world your horse will not experience choke. But if he does, remember to call your veterinarian as soon as possible to help guide you and your horse through this emergency.References1. Chiavaccini L, Hassel DM. Retrospective review of clinical features and prognostic variables in 109 horses with esophageal obstruction. J Vet Int Med. 2010;24:11471152.2. Duncanson GR. Equine oesophageal obstruction: A long-term study of 60 cases. Equine Vet Edu. 2006;18:262265.3. Southwood LL, Wilkins, PA. Equine Emergency and Critical Care Medicine. London: Taylor and Francis Group; 2014.4. Orsini JA, Divers TJ. Equine Emergencies: Treatment and Procedures (Fourth Edition). Pennsylvania: Elsevier Saunders; 2014.

Welcome to Horse Illustrateds weekly installment of the Right Horse Adoptable Horse of the Week, offered in partnership with the ASPCAs Right Horse program. This weeks adoptable horse is Haven! Check back weekly for a new featured horse so you can find your Right Horse.Photo courtesy Humane Society of North TexasAdoptable Horse: Haven, a 12-year-old, 14.1hh American Paint Horse mareOrganization: Humane Society of North Texas, Fort Worth, TexasGet to Know Adoptable Horse HavenMeet Haven! This darling Paint mare was rescued from a very bad situation and is seeking a peaceful new home. She is currently in the Humane Society of North Texas training evaluation program.Haven stands well for the vet and farrier. She is up-to-date on shots, Coggins, dental care, farrier work, and is microchipped.Fill out an interest in adoption form on the Humane Society of North Texas webiste today about ASPCA Right Horse Adoptable Horse of the Week, Haven!Photo courtesy Humane Society of North TexasASPCA Right HorseASPCA Right Horse is the online adoption platform of The Right Horse Initiative, a collection of equine industry and welfare professionals and advocates working together to improve the lives of horses in transition. A program of the ASPCA, their goal is to massively increase horse adoption in the United States. To find more adoptable horses and foster horses, visit www.myrighthorse.org. To learn more about The Right Horse, a program of the ASPCA, visit www.aspcarighthorse.org.The post ASPCA Right Horse Adoptable Horse of the Week: Haven appeared first on Horse Illustrated Magazine.

On Dec. 8, a 6-year-old Quarter Horse gelding in Hopkins County, Kentucky, tested positive for equine herpesvirus-4 (EHV-4), the respiratory form of the disease. The gelding developed clinical signs on Dec. 3, including nasal discharge and a cough. He is quarantined, and three horses have been exposed. This horse recently attended a trail ride in Alabama.There is no known epidemiological link between this case and the EHV-1 outbreak centered in Waco, Texas.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.

Peter Wright, one of the stars of Channel 5s The Yorkshire Vet, added some festive cheer to The Donkey Sanctuarys annual Carol by Candlelight service last week.The veterinary surgeon, who is an ambassador of the charity,wore a specially made Christmas jumper featuring two of the sanctuarys adoption donkeys, Maverick and Peanut, at the event last Friday (5 December).More than 200 people attended the service which took place in the Donkey Assisted Activities centre at the charitys Sidmouth Sanctuary. Many of the walkways were lined with non-flame candles to add a touch of festive sparkle.The service was hosted by celebrant and former BBC Radio Bristol presenter, Emma Britton,and featured several festive tunes such as Away in a Manger, O Little Town of Bethlehem, and of course Little Donkey.The Donkey Sanctuary was lit with thousands of lights for its annual carol service.iPhone 14 Pro Max f/1.78 1/9s 6.86mm ISO6400Bespoke songDuring the service, Peter spoke of some of the experiences he has had during his six years with The Donkey Sanctuary.The charitys restaurant, The Kitchen, was open so visitors could enjoy a drink and a bite to eat and watch the concert on screens inside. The event was also live-streamed.The evening concluded with a very unique version of The Twelve Days of Christmas, where the traditional lines were replaced by ones much more fitting to the resident donkeys, such as Five Gold Rings becoming Five Bales of Hay.The Donkey Sanctuary was founded in 1969 by Dr Elisabeth Svendsen who was appalled by the state of the donkeys she saw at a market in Exeter. She started buying the donkeys who were in the worst condition and The Donkey Sanctuary was registered as a charity in 1973. Since then the charity has transformed the lives of millions of donkeys around the world.To watch back the Carols by Candlelight event, click here.More from Your HorseEssential horse worming schedule and management tips from a vetExperts advise how to choose the best type of bedding to suit your horsePrevent mud fever by doing this (spoiler: it isnt actually caused by mud!)Winter hacking: How to stay safe and enjoy your rides through the colder monthsThe post Yorkshire Vet attends charitys candlelit carol service appeared first on Your Horse.