Month: March 2022

Last Updated on March 31, 2022 by Allison Price Primary squamous-cell carcinoma is a common form of cancer in horses. It is only found in areas with squamous cell carcinoma, which can be the skin, stomach, and nasal cavities.The appearance of the tumour under a microscope can help determine how malignant it is. It is considered less … Read more

Last Updated on March 31, 2022 by Allison Price Melanoma, a common skin condition that causes nodules in older grey horses, is very common. It usually occurs between 7-8 years old. Over 80% of grey horses will experience at least one form of melanoma in their lifetime. Melanoma can occur in horses at any age, some … Read more

Last Updated on March 31, 2022 by Allison Price As an animal communicator, I view the problem from the perspective of the animal and not as a trainer. If a horse is being abused but has been treated well, then we humans believe he should know that no one will hurt him now and should be … Read more

Last Updated on March 31, 2022 by Allison Price White line disease (WLD), also known as seedy-toe, is a term that describes similar infections. WLD and seedy toe look identical and both involve the same opportunistic fungal or bacterial invaders. Both are secondary hoof diseases that are caused by mechanical hoof problems, or whole-horse health problems. Understanding … Read more

Last Updated on March 31, 2022 by Allison Price Don’t panic if your horse has a swelling in his throat after coming from grazing. This could be due to Grass Glands. Horses can develop large submandibular lymphodes (the area behind the jawbone at the back of their throat). After grazing for several hours, horses and ponies will … Read more

Last Updated on March 31, 2022 by Allison Price Horses are quadrupeds and can be ridden fast or jump to escape danger. As with any animal that has one leg at each corner of its body, if one limb is compromised, the entire animal becomes vulnerable. Horses that are suffering from lameness need to be seen … Read more

Last Updated on March 31, 2022 by Allison Price GENETIC BOOTTLENECK OVERCOMING Przewalski’s horse, pronounced “shuh-VAL­skees”, faces the same challenge as many endangered species: recovering from an historic bottleneck. Przewalski’s horses today, which number around 2,000, are the descendants of 12 individuals who were saved from extinction in early 1900s. Mongolians refer to the horse as takhi … Read more

Last Updated on March 31, 2022 by Allison Price 1. Horse Behavior There are several visual and behavioral indicators that can help you determine if your horse is in need of a better fitting saddle. Do any of these sound familiar? : You move away when you approach with a saddle Tries to bite you when you … Read more

Last Updated on March 31, 2022 by Allison Price Your horse may respond to your shouting name, and come running towards you. Did they recognize your name? Many riders believe their horse is intelligent enough to pick it out. Some riders aren’t so certain. This is important if you are looking to name your horse after a purchase. Let’s find out … Read more

Last Updated on March 31, 2022 by Allison Price The placenta connects the foal and mare, and is vital. It supplies oxygen and nutrients to the foal through various blood vessels and interconnections with the mare. The mare’s endometrium (the lining of her uterus) is where the placenta attaches. Many tiny projections, shaped like fingers, are found … Read more

Last Updated on March 31, 2022 by Allison Price Uveitis, a common cause for blindness in horses is still a mystery. It can also be difficult to treat in its recurrent forms. Although there is no cure, it does not necessarily mean that a horse will be permanently blind. A horse’s eyesight can be saved by careful management … Read more

Last Updated on March 29, 2022 by Allison Price Osteochondrosis is a common cause for stifle lameness among young horses (see Osteochondrosis In Horses). The most common location for lesions in the stifle is the lateral trochantlear ridge of a horse’s femur. However, they can also be found in the intertrochlear groove or on the patella. Most lesions … Read more

Last Updated on March 29, 2022 by Allison Price The fibularis (peroneus tertius) is a tendinous structure. It originates from the extensor Fossa in the femur, runs across the craniolateral side of the tibia, inserting on the dorsoproximal aspects of the third metatarsal, calcaneus and the third and forth tarsal bones. It is part the reciprocal … Read more

Last Updated on March 29, 2022 by Allison Price Vesicular Stomatitis, which affects horses, cattle, and pork, is caused by a virus. It rarely affects sheep and goats. It can also be transmitted to humans, and can cause flu-like diseases. Vesicular Stomatitis is rare in the United States. Although outbreaks have occurred in every region of the country over … Read more

Last Updated on March 29, 2022 by Allison Price Uterine prolapse refers to a condition in which the uterus protrudes from the vagina and turns inside out. Although it is uncommon in horses, it can occur within hours or minutes of foal birth. Uterine prolapse can cause mare death. After a thorough cleaning and repair of any … Read more

Last Updated on March 29, 2022 by Allison Price The conjunctiva, a thin membrane covering the inner eyelids and reaching to the cornea of an eye, is thin. It is responsible for the movement of tears and eye, protecting the eye from external invaders and healing the cornea after injury. Because conjunctiva problems can be a sign … Read more

Last Updated on March 29, 2022 by Allison Price Pigeon Fever (False Strangles) Horses can contract lymphangitis from infection with Corynebacterium fauxtuberculosis bacteria. The bacteria can enter through skin injuries such as insect bites or injections. This condition is often called pigeon flu, false strangles or pigeon breast. It can also be called dry land distemper, pigeon breast and … Read more

Last Updated on March 29, 2022 by Allison Price Anemia is when there is a decrease of red blood cells. This can be measured using hemoglobin concentration or red blood cell count. Anemia can result from the destruction or lack of production of red cells. Anemia can be classified as either regenerative, or non-regenerative. A regenerative type of anemia is when … Read more

Last Updated on March 29, 2022 by Allison Price The location of fractures in the proximal sesamoid bone is what determines their classification. Apical sesamoid fractures are the most common in Standardbreds, Thoroughbreds, and Thoroughbreds. These fractures are often caused by excessive overextension, and are often associated with suspensory injury to the ligament. Standardbreds’ hindlimb may fracture at … Read more

Last Updated on March 29, 2022 by Allison Price Salmonellosis (see Salmonellosis), is the most common cause of diarrhea in adult horses. The clinical manifestations can range from mild to severe diarrhea (subclinical carrier), and even death. It is not common but can become a serious epidemic depending on how virulent the organism is, the level of exposure … Read more

Last Updated on March 29, 2022 by Allison Price Many bacteria can cause infections of the urinary tract. Infections of the urinary system can occur by bacteria. There are many factors that increase the likelihood of a urinary tract infection. Problems with urine flow, including not being able fully empty the bladder during urination, overly dilute urine, … Read more

Last Updated on March 29, 2022 by Allison Price There are many symptoms associated with flexor tendon disorders, including foot and postural changes, lameness, debility, and lameness. These conditions can be congenital, so they are detected in newborn foals. Contractures in newborn foals have been linked to uterine malposition, teratogenic injuries (arthrogryposis), or genetic defects. Acute tendon contracture … Read more

Last Updated on March 29, 2022 by Allison Price Many skin conditions can affect the outer part of the ear called the pinna. Many conditions can also cause tissue changes elsewhere. Rarely does a disease only affect the outer ear. A thorough history, complete physical examination and careful selection of diagnostic tests are required to diagnose a skin condition. Insects or … Read more

Last Updated on March 29, 2022 by Allison Price Mastitis, also known as inflammation of the breast (mammary gland), is almost always caused by a bacterial infection. Mastitis can occur in mares who are nursing foals. It is most common during the drying-off period, which is when the milk production stops. Mastitis can affect one or both … Read more

Last Updated on March 29, 2022 by Allison Price The equine pistolary, Oxyuris Equi, is widespread. Although the parasite is more prevalent in young horses, it can also occur at any age. The larval stages can cause inflammation in the ventral colon and cecum mucosal walls, but no clinical manifestations have been reported. Local irritation and pruritus may occur … Read more

Last Updated on March 29, 2022 by Allison Price The liver performs many functions. It can also be used to metabolize carbohydrates, proteins and fats. It also helps to eliminate and break down many potentially harmful compounds. The liver is vulnerable to injury and disease because of this. The liver is protected against permanent damage by having a … Read more

Last Updated on March 29, 2022 by Allison Price Lameness in racehorses is often caused by osteochondral fractures (carpal chips fractures) of the wrist bones. Trauma, which is often associated with intense exercise, is the primary cause of lameness. The dorsal side of the joint is where chips are most common. The distal radial and proximal third bones … Read more

Last Updated on March 29, 2022 by Allison Price EIPH is a common condition in racehorses, as well as horses involved in equine sports such as polo, barrel racing and 3-day events. EIPH is rare in horses that have Epistaxis (5%). Endoscopic examination can identify blood in the tracheobronchial trees in between 45% and 75% of racehorses. … Read more

Last Updated on March 29, 2022 by Allison Price Habronema mucae and H microstoma infect the stomach’s mucosal lining and can cause catarrhal gastritis. Draschia may cause tumor-like swellings at the margo plicatus. However, this parasite is now rare in domestic horses. Habronema parasites are rarely found in the gastric stage. Their most prominent manifestation is the cutaneous condition commonly called summer … Read more

Last Updated on March 29, 2022 by Allison Price Equine recurrent eye disease (ERU), a serious ophthalmic condition, is reported to be 2%-25% in the world . ERU classic is characterised by periods of active intraocular inflammation that are followed by variable quiescent times. Some horses may experience subclinical ocular inflammation (ERU) that persists indefinitely without any … Read more

Last Updated on March 29, 2022 by Allison Price Anaplasmosis, also known as equine-granulocytic ehrlichiosis, is a seasonal infectious disease that’s most common in the United States. Although most cases are found in California, cases have also been reported in other states such as Connecticut, Illinois and Arkansas. There have been cases confirmed in South America, Britain, … Read more

Last Updated on March 29, 2022 by Allison Price Vaginitis (inflammation in the vagina) and vulvitis (inflammation at the vulvae) may develop from difficult labor, chronic contamination of reproductive tract due to poor conformation, sex transmitted diseases, mating, or hard labor. After the birth of a foal, mares may experience hematomas and bruises. There may be severe … Read more

Last Updated on March 29, 2022 by Allison Price The cardiovascular system comprises the heart, the blood vessels (the veins and arteries), and the heart. The heart’s function is to pump blood. The right side of your heart pumps blood to your lungs. There, oxygen and carbon dioxide are added to your blood. The left side pumps blood … Read more

Last Updated on March 29, 2022 by Allison Price The equine GI helminth Strongylus vulgaris is considered the most dangerous. Although the prevalence was estimated at 80%-100%, decades of routine deworming have reduced its incidence to very low levels. Acute peritonitis is the most common finding in horses. In such cases, fecal egg counts are not diagnostic. A coproculture will … Read more

Last Updated on March 29, 2022 by Allison Price A radiographic finding of distal phalanx demineralization, pedal osteitis, is commonly seen with widening vascular channels. This is best seen on a 65deg dorsopalmar radiographic image. The term is often used to refer to changes in the dorsal (toes) solar margin. However, bone resorption can also be … Read more

Last Updated on March 29, 2022 by Allison Price Bog Spavin (Inflammation at the Hock Joint). Bog spavin refers to inflammation of the synovial membrane, which results in the distention of the joint capsule around the tarsal joint (hock). This could be due to congenital defects, degenerative joint disease or trauma, poor joint conformation, infection or … Read more

Last Updated on March 29, 2022 by Allison Price Alopecia refers to the loss of hairs or partial absence in areas that are usually covered. Alopecia is not a condition, but a sign. To treat the condition, it must first be identified what is causing it. The itching problem is what should be first investigated if an animal experiences hair … Read more

Last Updated on March 29, 2022 by Allison Price Proximal Suspensory Desimitis: The term proximal supensory desmitis (PSD), refers to lesions that are located in the proximal third of the metacarpus. PSD can be unilaterally or bi-directionally. It is common in all types and breeds of horses. Injuries to the proximal supensory ligament or its attachment to … Read more

Last Updated on March 29, 2022 by Allison Price Fracture of Stifle Rarely are severe fractures of either the femur, or the tibia in the stifle. These bones can be difficult to treat due to damage to the joint and ligaments as well as cartilage and soft-tissue swelling. Minor fractures can be treated depending on what type … Read more

Last Updated on March 29, 2022 by Allison Price Laminitis and other conditions that could affect the feet of horses include navicular disease (puncture wounds), infections, keratomas, pedal osteitisis, keratomas, keratomas, laminitis. Bone Cyst in Pedal Bone Long-term lameness can be caused by a large cyst in the pedal bone (the dital phalanx). This may … Read more

Last Updated on March 29, 2022 by Allison Price The presence or absence certain proteins or sugars on the red blood cells membrane determines the blood group. There are many blood groups, and they vary from one domestic species to the next. Normally, people do not develop antibodies against the antigens in their red blood cells or … Read more

Last Updated on March 29, 2022 by Allison Price The Ovaries Ovaries are female hormone-producing gonads. These hormones are essential for egg development and preparation for pregnancy. The size and shape of the ovaries changes once the horse reaches puberty and has its heat (estrous). A group of cells within the ovary forms a follicle that surrounds each … Read more

Last Updated on March 29, 2022 by Allison Price Rectal and Anorectal Narrowing. (Strictures). Anorectal and rectal strictures refer to narrowings in the rectum or anus caused by scar tissue. Scar tissue can be caused by trauma or injury (such as an accident or surgery) or may be a result of an inflammatory condition. Rectal Prolapse … Read more

Last Updated on March 29, 2022 by Allison Price A wild horse (or burro), is defined under United States Law as either a horse (or burro (descendants), that was discovered on public land in 1971, following the passage of the Wild Free Roaming Horse and Burro Act of 1972. The term “wild horse” is a controversial one. The Equus horse, … Read more

Last Updated on March 29, 2022 by Allison Price Bounce fences can be a great tool for both horse and rider. If you are planning to cross country, they will prove to be a valuable addition to your horse’s riding.These fences don’t have non-jumping steps between them. The horse will land with his front feet … Read more

Last Updated on March 26, 2022 by Allison Price Horse owners often have to transport their horses, no matter how far it may be. I was a novice at hauling horses long distances. I sought out helpful tips to help me do this safely when I started. Research and experience have taught me that long-haul hauls with … Read more

Last Updated on March 26, 2022 by Allison Price Horseshoes have been a symbol for good fortune around the world, but are they suitable for horses? What does it feel like to wear horseshoes on horses? Horseshoes are essential for equestrians. They protect the feet of your horse and improve its hooves. Horseshoes can be more than just … Read more

Last Updated on March 26, 2022 by Allison Price If you want to breed horses or have offspring, horse reproduction is a crucial topic. Many people are curious about how horses mate. Although the answer is straightforward, there will be some work involved. This article will answer the question and provide more detail. Understanding Horse Reproduction Stallions also … Read more

Last Updated on March 26, 2022 by Allison Price A foal needs to eat its mother’s milk from the moment it is born. We automatically associate baby’s milk as udders, teats and nipples. Most often, we think of a cow. What about horses foals? Are mares able to provide food for their foals by having udders and teats? Simple answer: … Read more

Last Updated on March 26, 2022 by Allison Price The number of sperm a horse produces in a lifetime is in the billions and billions. While a stallion is a male horse, it can produce around four billion sperms per hour to fertilize an egg. You will most likely find one sperm that successfully fertilizes the egg. … Read more