“This virus can spread fast, it can be deadly, and the earliest signs are often so subtle they’re easy to miss,” Commissioner Miller, himself an avid horseman, said. “That’s 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 area or 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 large multi–barn gatherings, roping jackpots, or traveled extensively enough to include the Waco region.

Clinical signs of EHV-1 can vary widely, and may include:

• Fever
• Nasal discharge, coughing, or other respiratory changes
• Depression or lethargy.
• Neurological signs: stumbling or incoordination, loss of tail tone, hind-limb weakness, 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:

1. Isolate any horse that attended the Waco event for at least 14 days from other equines, or until cleared by a veterinarian.
2. Suspend hauling, showing, or mixing horses from the exposure group until further notice. Avoid taking exposed horses to other barns or events.
3. Disinfect trailers, wash-racks, cross-ties, tie-areas, tack rooms, buckets, grooming tools, and any shared equipment. Use an appropriate virucidal disinfectant.
4. Avoid sharing tack, halters, grooming equipment, buckets, water hoses, etc., between exposed and unexposed horses.
5. Monitor temperatures twice daily for all exposed horses and report any fever (≥101.5 °F) or other signs to a veterinarian immediately.
6. If any horse exhibits neurologic signs, coughing, or nasal discharge, isolate it immediately, wear protective gear, and call your veterinarian.
7. Keep accurate records: track which horses were present at events, their movement, and who handled them for contact tracing if needed.
8. Stay in contact with your local veterinarian and keep up to date on updates from state veterinary authorities.

“I’m 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 state’s $12.3 billion equine industry safe.”

What is Equine Herpes Virus?

The horse can be affected by many different strains of equine herpes virus (EHV), also known as rhinopneumonitis, but five strains are most prevalent: EHV-1, EHV-2, EHV-3, EHV-4, and EHV-5. Of these, EHV-1 and EHV-4 are associated with viral respiratory disease, with EHV-4 mostly affecting young horses younger than 3 years of age. EHV-1 is the most prevalent concern in horse populations of all ages, not only because its respiratory disease is more virulent than that of EHV-4, but also because it can cause viral abortion in pregnant mares or neurologic disease (equine herpes myeloencephalopathy or EHM). Mutation of the DNA in the herpes virus produces this extremely virulent neurological form, which damages blood vessels in the central nervous system. Subsequent damage to the spinal cord tissues and brain is accompanied by specific neurological signs.

How EHV-1 Works

Horses 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 horse’s 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 Agriculture

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Draft Horse Hoof Care

Gentle Giants Draft Rescue is a 300-plus acre facility in Mt. Airy, Md., that rehabilitates and re-homes draft horses. They are currently home to more than 150 drafts. Executive Director and founder Christine Hajek says the most common problem seen in draft breeds is hoof neglect.

One misconception about drafts is that due to their size, they wear down their feet on their own. This is not true; as with other horse breeds, drafts require regular hoof trims. However, given their size, “Expect to pay more for the farrier,” she says.

Drafts can have a reputation for being stubborn about picking up and holding up their feet. This is in large part due to their background. Many drafts come from Amish and Mennonite farms, says Hajek. There, feet are trimmed in wooden restraints called stocks, so many drafts haven’t been taught to stand while having their feet held by a person.

However, this can be overcome by patient, consistent training. Staff at Gentle Giants use clicker training to accustom drafts to having their feet handled.

Skin Beneath the Feathers

Along with the beautiful feathers some draft breeds have comes extra work in keeping the skin underneath healthy. Long hair on the lower legs can create an environment that is ideal for bacteria and parasite proliferation. Many drafts that arrive at Gentle Giants have a skin condition called scratches, mite infestations, or both, says Hajek.

Scratches, also called mud fever, is a dermatitis of the pastern and heel. Overgrowth of microorganisms on the skin’s surface results in localized inflammation, causing these areas to appear greasy. The skin will be red, thickened, and scabby, and may be sensitive to touch.

Mange mites, specifically chorioptic mites (Chorioptes species), commonly take up residence along a draft horse’s lower legs. Infestations result in intense itching that can cause a horse to stomp and yank his foot away when held. Some owners may misinterpret this as a behavioral issue; however, when the underlying condition is treated, this issue resolves.

Managing these skin conditions involves a delicate balance between moisture and dryness. Yes, those beautiful feathers will likely have to be shaved off (but they grow back!) in order to expose the mites and dry out any bacteria present. Initially, regular leg bathing will help fight these infections, followed by thorough drying.

Keeping the horse’s legs clean and dry then is key in keeping these skin issues at bay. Work with your veterinarian to determine the best shampoo for your draft and any other medications needed, such as an antiparasitic or antibiotic for severe infections.

Belgians, specifically, are at risk for a different type of condition in the legs called chronic progressive lymphedema, or CPL. Belgians with this condition develop swelling in their lower legs, which can lead to thickened skin and lesions. Not much is currently understood about this disease, but it is progressive and there is no treatment. Anyone interested in a Belgian should carefully inquire about the horse’s background and lineage, if known.

Feeding Fat

Most adult draft horses in little to light work and general good health are relatively easy keepers, meaning they can maintain a good body condition on quality forage, such as hay or pasture. In fact, if fed according to the guidelines on many feed bags based on body weight, owners may accidentally over-feed their draft, leading to obesity and associated metabolic issues, such as insulin resistance and laminitis.

Inappropriate diet is a common issue in many of the draft rescues rehabilitated at Gentle Giants.

“They were fed based on light breed horse guidelines,” Hajek explains.

When a draft horse does require a higher level of nutrition than what simple forage can provide, they may need more fat as opposed to the high starch seen in grain mixes.

“A lot of people don’t realize drafts may need a higher-fat diet,” says Hajek.

If your draft horse requires a high-calorie concentrate in addition to good quality forage, work with your veterinarian or an equine nutritionist to ensure he is getting a balanced diet appropriate for his metabolic needs, age, and workload.

Possible PSSM

One serious nutrition issue common in draft horses is a metabolic disorder called equine polysaccharide storage myopathy (PSSM or EPSM). Horses with PSSM are unable to properly metabolize and store carbohydrates, which becomes an issue when a horse is fed a high-carbohydrate diet (such as grain) and then exercised.

Mild signs of PSSM include muscle weakness, twitches, and gait abnormalities, but severity of the condition varies, and can escalate to colic-like signs, refusal to move, severe muscle cramping, and kidney issues due to muscle cell death.

PSSM is diagnosed via bloodwork, muscle biopsy, and, more recently, genetic testing. While there is no cure, PSSM can be managed successfully by switching to a diet high in fat instead of carbohydrates and a consistent exercise regimen. Careful management should be overseen by a veterinarian.

Neurologic Conditions

Draft horses are also more prone to some neuromuscular disorders than can look like PSSM.

Shivers and stringhalt are two neurologic conditions that typically result in an abnormal gait, most notably in the hind legs. These conditions aren’t lethal, but they can make a horse reluctant to lift his feet for a farrier.

Some horses with shivers or stringhalt can still be ridden or driven. Severity and management of these conditions varies by horse.

Eye Health

Some breeds of drafts with wide white markings on their faces, such as Belgians, Clydesdales and Haflingers, are predisposed to a locally invasive type of cancer in the eye called squamous cell carcinoma (SCC).

SCC can range in severity. A small lesion on the third eyelid can be relatively straightforward to remove. But in extreme cases, removal of the eye may be necessary, or possibly euthanasia if the underlying bone is involved.

Owners of Belgians and any breed with excessive white on the face should regularly monitor their horse’s eyes for any unusual coloration, irregularity, or signs of irritation. If something is abnormal, have your veterinarian conduct a closer examination. The earlier SCC is diagnosed, the better the prognosis.

Heat & Humidity

Due to their larger frames and associated musculature, draft horses can struggle to dissipate heat, which can lead to heat stress. When you add to this the challenges of keeping heavily feathered legs dry in humidity, it can be difficult to keep a draft breed comfortable in the summer.

For this reason, if you live in the southeastern United States, Hajek cautions against getting a draft. At the very least, she advises, avoid getting a draft horse from a northern climate and transporting him south, where he isn’t acclimated to the heat and humidity.

Key Takeaway

At the end of the day, a draft horse is still a horse, with the same training needs, personality quirks, and general care requirements.

“They train the same way [as a lighter breed],” says Hajek. “People tend to treat them like they’re different. The worst stereotype of drafts is that they’re dull and slow. That’s not the case at all.”

With proper care and consistent training, just like their smaller counterparts, draft horses make excellent mounts and companions. There’s just a bit more of them to love.

This article about draft horse health and care appeared in the November/December 2024 issue of Horse Illustrated magazine. Click here to subscribe!

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Get to Know the Cecum

What is the cecum? This large, comma-shaped pouch is located at the junction of the small and large intestines; it takes up a large portion of the right side of a horse’s abdomen.

The organ is a blind pouch, meaning that the entrance and exit to the organ sit dorsally (to the back, nearer the anus); if gastrointestinal motility is in any way compromised, material passing through the intestine may settle to the bottom of the organ instead of being pushed through it, increasing the likelihood of material buildup and an impaction.

Between 4 and 5 feet long, the cecum acts as a storage area; it can hold roughly 8 gallons of material and water. It’s often referred to as part of the large intestine (along with the colon, into which it empties). The cecum assists in three things:

◆ Storage. The cecum stores electrolytes and water.

◆ Digestion. Bacteria in the cecum help ferment food passing into it from the small intestine.

◆ Fermentation. Enzymes in the cecum break down food.

With the ability to hold this much material and liquid, it’s easy to see why any slowdown of material moving through in this area could be significant. While a cecal impaction is not the most common cause of colic in horses, the mortality rate from such an impaction is shockingly high: between 25 and 57 percent.

These deaths are mainly attributed to cecal rupture, which can come on rapidly with minimal signs of onset. A horse’s digestive tract can still function (thought not as effectively) as a cecal impaction builds, so signs of impending impaction are easy to overlook.

Presentation of Cecal Impactions

Like other types of colic, early intervention is key to a favorable outcome. Cecal impactions can be particularly tricky to diagnose, as they often present very mildly. An affected horse may look slightly uncomfortable, trot around, or lie down with minimal fanfare; he may find relief with just a small dose of pain medication.

However, as the impaction grows, so does the horse’s pain. A horse with a cecal impaction may exhibit the following signs, but not necessarily over a consistent time period:

◆ Reduced manure output

◆ Pawing

◆ Pacing, rolling or stretching out

◆ Reduced intestinal sounds

◆ Increased heart rate

◆ Pale gums

◆ Sweating

It’s important to also remember that none of these signs may be pronounced.

“A lot of owners see ‘colic’ and think [the horse] has twisted his intestine,” explains Ann Andrews, DVM, of Park Equine Hospital in Lexington, Ky. “Then when they see their horse acting a bit more normal, if uncomfortable, they think they’re in the clear—but they may not be. Owners expect a violent, thrashing colic, but a cecal impaction may appear very mild.”

These mild signs in and of themselves don’t mean the issue isn’t important or doesn’t necessitate follow-up attention.

Cause: Dehydration

“A few things can cause a cecal impaction, but the most common is dehydration,” says Andrews.

Horses that live in hot, humid environments are more susceptible to this condition as they sweat, sometimes profusely, to cool themselves down. The ability to get out of direct sunlight, whether that means in a stall under fans, in a run-in shed, or in shade from trees, will prevent the horse from experiencing a spike in body temperature and an overabundance of sweat production, which could deplete his body’s store of electrolytes.

Additionally, it’s critical that you ensure your horse has fresh water, and that the water he has access to isn’t hot, says Andrews. This may mean extra work filling and refilling buckets and troughs, or making sure there are multiple areas from which your horse can drink (an automatic waterer and a trough, for example).

The even bigger part of having access to water is ensuring that the horse is actually drinking, Andrews says, though she notes that this can be hard if he lives in a herd.

The majority a horse’s water absorption (98 percent!) occurs in the cecum and distal colon, according to Andrews. This means that if a horse is dehydrated, his body tries to remove even more water from the material that is in the large intestine, causing the fecal matter to dry out and get firmer, making it difficult for it to pass around the pelvic flexure. She notes that this area is often where horses end up getting impactions.

Cause: Parasites

A horse with a heavy worm burden may also be susceptible to a cecal impaction. Tapeworms in particular appear to put horses at risk, as they tend to gather around the narrow junction between the large and small intestine, blocking the passage of food into the cecum. Tapeworm attachment at this junction can also irritate the intestine, leading to spasmodic colic.

Routine fecal egg counts, usually performed by your veterinarian, can help identify which parasites are affecting your horse and how heavy of a load he’s carrying. A deworming strategy created in conjunction with your vet can ensure that your horse is not negatively affected by a high worm load.

Cause: Age-Related Issues

Older horses with cancerous polyps in their gastrointestinal tracts may have slowed motility in the large intestine.

“Food and matter that sits in the cecum encourages the body to keep trying to pull out water,” says Andrews. At some point, there is no more water to pull.

Additionally, older horses with poor dentition, either from lack of routine care or because they no longer have teeth to chew their food well, are also candidates for cecal impactions.

“Their feed is not as broken up as it should be, and these larger balls of feed and matter can fluff up in the intestine,” she cautions.

Older horses may benefit from feed that is soaked or from a less-coarse feed that is more readily broken down in the digestive tract. Ongoing, quality dental care is critical during a horse’s golden years.

Treatment of a Cecal Impaction

There is no specific age or breed of horse that is most at-risk of a cecal impaction.

“I have seen cecal impactions across the board,” says Andrews. “They occur in a variety of ages [of horse], for a variety of reasons.” Early detection is key to the horse’s health.

Like other types of colic, cecal impactions can be treated medically or surgically based on the horse’s clinical signs, results of a physical exam, rectal palpation, health history, bloodwork results, and the horse’s response to medical management. Andrews will often ultrasound a horse’s abdomen to help determine if the horse is experiencing a cecal impaction.

Administration of fluids, both intravenously and orally, is the first line of defense to try to soften the mass in the horse’s cecum. Laxatives and pain relievers may also be administered.

Surgery, or euthanasia if surgery is not an option, must be considered if the impaction remains unchanged or enlarges, or if pain escalates, as this indicates that rupture is often imminent. Once the horse’s cecum ruptures, he may briefly appear more comfortable as he bleeds internally, which eventually causes death from blood loss or septicemia.

Because of this possible outcome, it’s important to know if surgery is an option—for a cecal impaction or other problem—long before the need arises, according to Andrews.

“If I can’t manage a cecal impaction medically, I don’t waste a lot of time before getting them on the table if surgery is an option, mainly so I can try to preserve the integrity of the GI tract,” she says.

Owners who know their horses well are cherished by their horse’s care team and offer solid ground for the veterinarian-client-patient relationship to flourish.

“I value the owners who look at their horses every day,” says Andrews. “When they say, ‘Something’s not right,’ I know that something truly isn’t right. Long-term, I know their horses as well as they do, and it helps me catch things really early and begin treatment.”

This article about cecal impaction colic appeared in the October 2024 issue of Horse Illustrated magazine. Click here to subscribe!

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Still, his show ring career wasn’t over. From there, we transitioned to a successful second career in dressage. After several good years, it was time to let this career go, too. By then in his early 30s but still not content to be fully retired, his final job was as a leadline mount for my then-young daughter. His full retirement, when it finally came a few years later, was something I felt we were both happy and comfortable with.

On the other hand, my half-Arabian mare, Sally, was an example of a difficult early retirement. A highly versatile horse, just one of her many talents was her performance in the hunter ring.

However, despite my best efforts, she has never truly been a healthy horse. Some of her health conditions we have been able to name and treat. Though these issues may have limited her, they never took her completely out of the game.

Other conditions have been mysterious and less well-managed due to their undefined nature; her treatments have been a roller coaster of successes and failures. Numerous tests have led to dead ends leading to more significant restrictions.

Though still in her early 20s, her most recent job change has been from a semi-retired trail horse to pasture-sound companion horse. By outward appearances, she looks amazing, but she is unable to tolerate a rider.

Soundness and Injuries

With so many possible retirement scenarios, what is considered an average age for retirement? What is considered an early retirement?

The decision to retire a horse is based on several different factors, according to Jud Easterwood, DVM, of Easterwood Equine Hospital in Calera, Ala.

“Most of these factors are health or soundness related,” he says. “I don’t think there is an average age. We have some horses that are able to perform well into their 20s. Other horses have had significant injuries that lead to chronic lameness or issues with pain. These horses have to retire much earlier.”

Easterwood says that he considers “early” retirement one that occurs before the age of 20. In his experience, these unfortunate early retirement scenarios are usually centered around tendon or suspensory ligament injuries. He says they can also be brought on by conditions such as arthritis or ringbone.

“Any serious injury could result in these conditions that a horse can’t overcome to get back into high-level performance work,” he says.

Metabolic & Back Problems

Sometimes, conditions such as PPID and the insulin resistance that sometimes accompanies it can necessitate early retirement, especially when it leads to other conditions, such as chronic laminitis and potentially founder. Easterwood says that while these issues are typically seen in horses over the age of 20, they do occasionally occur in younger horses, too.

Over the years, because imaging has improved, he notes that horses being diagnosed with back problems have also become much more common. Rather than undiagnosed pain, he says we are now able to pinpoint kissing spines and neck arthritis.

“These may not stand out to you like leg lameness, but they create an overall sour behavior or back soreness,” says Easterwood. Depending on their severity, these may also require retirement.

Signs That It’s Time to Retire

What are the signs that your horse may be ready to retire?

“Any sort of chronic lameness or pain issues would be the No. 1 condition that leads to retirement,” says Easterwood. “No. 2 is when the horse doesn’t enjoy his job anymore and has become sour.”

He also lists conditions such as liver disease; inflammatory bowel disease that leads to chronic diarrhea and weight loss; neurological diseases that cause ataxia, such as EPM or (less commonly) West Nile virus; or any condition that is difficult to treat and that leads to performance problems.

Semi or Full Retirement?

Regardless of age, when you decide to retire your horse, you’ll need to consider partial or full retirement. Easterwood says that he likes to use the words “serviceably sound” with owners considering partial retirement for their horses.

“You may have a horse that is not 100 percent sound and is no longer suitable for show jumping, barrel racing, or other types of intense performance sports,” he says. “But [semi-retirement is an option] if the horse is still able to get around fine and enjoy doing activities such as trail riding, flat work, ground work, or being ridden in lessons.”

He says some horses can do these things well and maintain a good exercise regimen, even though they are stepping back from their previous high-intensity careers.

However, there is one important caveat that Easterwood advises for owners considering semi-retirement. If you’re considering having a child take over the ride on your horse, he advises having the horse evaluated by a veterinarian to determine whether there are any issues the horse may have with tripping and falling in order to prevent potentially devastating accidents.

Whether or not semi or full retirement is a happy occasion for your horse depends on several factors.

Easterwood’s first recommendation for keeping retirees engaged is to exercise as tolerated. Keeping horses stabled or pastured near high-activity areas can also help keep retirees engaged, while stall or pasture toys can provide further enrichment.

Prolonging Soundness

While retirement may be inevitable for most horses, there are some steps you can take to extend your horse’s working career. Easterwood says that good veterinary care is a staple to keeping horses sound and happy in their job.

“It doesn’t have to be frequent,” he says. “I recommend annual to biannual X-rays and lameness evaluations to make sure you are keeping up with any changes to previous injuries and to make sure that nothing new has developed.”

If conditions such as arthritis, degenerative joint disease, or joint injuries exist, he recommends the use of prescription intramuscular injections for their treatment. He says that veterinarians also sometimes use intra-articular injections to relieve pain and keep horses comfortable.

Even if your horse is free of any condition requiring injections, Easterwood says that oral supplements can work to reduce wear and tear. He also says that therapies such as chiropractic adjustments, massage, acupuncture, and PEMF treatments can augment traditional veterinary care to the benefit of your horse.

Easterwood also advises screening for metabolic diseases as the horse ages, but also if your horse exhibits any signs any signs that warrant it.

Though no guarantee, the above steps, along with maintaining a good diet and exercise plan—as well as updated vaccinations, deworming, and dental care—can go a long way toward ensuring that your horse enjoys a long career.

By and large, the decision to retire your horse can be one of the more difficult decisions that horse owners face. By watching for indications and taking the appropriate steps, you can rest assured that you are making the best decisions for your horse’s future.

This article about when to retire your horse appeared in the October 2024 issue of Horse Illustrated magazine. Click here to subscribe!

The post When Is It Time to Retire Your Horse? appeared first on Horse Illustrated Magazine.

“Garmin is a world leader in the health and fitness industry, and we are excited to bring our advanced sensor data and technology to the equine market with the introduction of Blaze,” Susan Lyman, Garmin Vice President of Consumer Sales and Marketing says. “Whether you’re eventing, racing, jumping or anything in between, this new system will help you monitor your horse’s health to keep them performing at their best.”

Innovative Design

The Blaze system starts with a removable, rechargeable sensor the size of a half-dollar, placed in a durable, washable neoprene wrap that can be adjusted for a perfect fit. The wrap securely holds the sensor to the skin on the underside of the horse’s tail, without irritating the horse or requiring any skin preparation.

The sensor’s battery life is up to 25 hours, and the wrap can be worn for up 10 hours continuously.

Easily paired with the Blaze Connect IQ app on your Garmin smartwatch or the Blaze app on your phone, you’ll sync your devices and instantly access a treasure trove of information about your horse, gathered and updated in real time. You can share your live stats with your trainer or friends in spectator mode. One sensor and wrap can be used on multiple horses, as you can create profiles for each one and easily select the right equine in the app.

Valuable Data

Choose from the following activities to track in the app: Ride, Recovery and Transport. While riding, you can track your horse’s heart rate, strides, gait, distance, skin temperature and changes to that temperature, and much more. You can also see the heat score in your area to determine if it’s safe to ride in current conditions. You can track your horse’s recovery as his heart rate changes, and that can be tracked while riding and in separate sessions for low-intensity wellness monitoring.

The Blaze can be used during transport to monitor your horse’s stress levels and comfort in the trailer, all conveniently accessed on your Garmin device or phone app.

After logging activity, you can view all of your data right in the app on your phone, and can easily toggle between horses.

Garmin-Backed

Blaze comes from a long line of Garmin products designed to help humans get greater enjoyment out of activities they already love. From aviation, marine and automobile navigation devices, to wearables for hiking, biking, running, swimming and other sports, Garmin has produced accurate tools that are proven to be durable in harsh conditions. Founded over 35 years ago, Garmin’s headquarters is located in Olathe, Kan., with offices worldwide.

Blaze was also tested by independent researchers at Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine, compared against medical-grade ECG systems. Over 100 tail wrap variations were evaluated, and it was tested at a Thoroughbred training center with more than 100 horses each day.

While developing Blaze, the device was tested in a wide variety of methods to make sure it’s both accurate and durable, holding up to impact, horse sweat, heat, cold and more.

The Blaze Equine Wellness System with tail wrap and sensor is priced at $599.99 and is available at Garmin.com.

This article about Garmin’s Blaze Equine Wellness System is a web exclusive for Horse Illustrated magazine. Click here to subscribe!

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The threat of communicable disease in horses is very real. To name just a few examples, it’s not uncommon to use public water troughs on trail rides or to share one rag to wipe the nose of every horse from one barn before they walk into the show ring.

Though “routine,” each of these practices—and many others—invite the spread of disease, potentially between hundreds of horses.

Though horses are often in the company of others and don’t become ill, what happens when a horse comes down with an infectious disease? How are horse owners alerted, especially if their horse may have been in contact with the sick horse? How do they know what information is real and what has been blown out of proportion? Most importantly, how do owners learn how to keep their horses safe?

These questions and others were the impetus behind the creation of the Equine Disease Communication Center (EDCC). Similar to how the Weather Channel broadcasts weather alerts, the EDCC alerts horse owners to infectious diseases that are reported in North America.

The Cutting Show in Utah

In 2011, a cutting horse show in Ogden, Utah, experienced a significant equine herpesvirus (EHV-1) outbreak. With no means of organized information dissemination, rumors about the situation escalated rapidly, causing a state of near panic in some owners.

In total, over 2,000 horses were potentially exposed to the disease on 242 premises in 19 states. At the outbreak’s conclusion, 90 horses tested positive for the EHV-1 or equine herpesvirus myeloencephalopathy (EHM), another name for the neurologic disease associated with an EHV infection. Fifty-four of the 90 had been at the Ogden event. Thirteen horses died or were euthanized.

During the outbreak, Facebook and X (then called Twitter) lit up with rumors, causing heightened anxiety over horse health and spurring the cancellation of equine events across the country, even though most events had no connection with any horses that attended the Ogden event.

Seventeen of the confirmed EHV-1 and EHM cases were in California; show organizers opted to cancel 142 of the 530 sanctioned shows that were to be held in the state that year. The economic impact of those cancellations was significant and would be felt for years.

Creating the Equine Disease Communications Center

It became clear that a unified industry response plan to disease outbreaks was needed—one that not only allowed for the dissemination of legitimate data, but that also provided vetted information on how to prevent disease transmission and how to handle disease outbreaks.

The American Horse Council, the American Association of Equine Practitioners (AAEP), and the United States Equestrian Federation (USEF) all collaborated to fundraise and launch the Equine Disease Communications Center, which went live in 2015.

Nathaniel “Nat” White, DVM, DACVS, professor emeritus of equine surgery at the Marion duPont Scott Equine Medical Center in Leesburg, Va., and director of the EDCC, organized the working model and gave the EDCC its moniker. In 2023, White won the Equine Industry Vision Award for this work at the American Horse Publications Equine Media Conference in Tempe, Ariz.

According to White, it was anything but a one-man show. State veterinarians, veterinary practices, horse-owner organizations (like breed and discipline associations), and individual donors helped—and continue to do so.

“Similar to the CDC [Centers for Disease Control and Prevention], the EDCC seeks information about disease outbreaks, posts messages, and informs the equine industry about confirmed diseases, their location, and if there are potential risks to other horses,” White explains.

How It Works

Unlike a phone number or website where anyone can submit leads on suspected illness, the EDCC allows only specific people to report disease: an attending veterinarian or a state or federal official.

The veterinarian or official submits a confirmed or suspected disease through the EDCC website, which records the information in the database. The database then generates an alert, which is posted to the EDCC website and Facebook page.

Anyone who has become an alert subscriber via the EDCC website is also emailed. The reported disease is linked to an EDCC disease page, which has information describing the disease, the diagnosis and the treatment, says White. Downloadable disease fact sheets are also available.

All information regarding disease outbreak mitigation and how to handle an affected horse is reviewed for accuracy by the AAEP Infectious Disease Committee, which is populated by subject matter experts.

Reportable Diseases

Though the veterinarian or official can report a confirmed case of any equine disease to the EDCC, reporting of infectious diseases is of the most importance, says Katie Flynn, BVMS, the U.S. Equestrian Federation’s senior staff veterinarian. A confirmed “reportable” disease is submitted to the EDCC by the state veterinarian, who is made aware of a confirmed diagnosis by the testing laboratory.

A reportable disease is one that is deemed to have a potential for significant impact on the equine industry, both on the health of the United States equine population and economically. When a reportable disease is diagnosed, the veterinarian or laboratory employee is required to report the disease to state or national veterinary health officials.

The list of reportable disease varies by state and may include:

◆ Equine Herpesvirus-1 neurologic (Equine Herpesvirus Myeloencephalopathy)

◆ Equine Herpesvirus -1 abortion

◆ Equine influenza, Streptococcus equi (strangles)

◆ Western Equine Encephalitis (WEE) and Eastern Equine Encephalitis (EEE)

◆ West Nile virus (WNV)

◆ Equine infectious anemia (EIA)

◆ Equine piroplasmosis (EP)

◆ Equine viral arteritis (EVA)

◆ Rabies

◆ Vesicular stomatitis (VS)

Many veterinarians, state horse councils and other horse-health organizations rely on the EDCC to inform horse owners of disease outbreaks. The alerts are posted in real time—the same day they are reported.

However, this doesn’t mean that the alert comes out the day the horse becomes ill; the alert is posted the day the veterinarian receives positive confirmation that the horse is ill with a specific disease.

The alert system can provide information about disease risk to horses at a specific location or at the location where the horses intend to travel, like to a horse show or trail ride.

“As the Equine Health and Biosecurity Veterinarian for the USEF, I encourage all horse show managers to visit this site frequently to keep informed of disease occurrences in the area,” says Flynn. “[This way] they can be prepared to implement stricter biosecurity measures, such as requiring shorter-dated health certificates or mandating temperature-taking for horses at their event.”

The EDCC alert system isn’t just for equine event managers or those who travel with their horses.

“This is also a beneficial tool for boarding facility managers,” says Flynn. “If a disease is detected in the geographic area of their facility, they can implement enhanced biosecurity measures, such as requiring every horse to have its temperature taken twice daily to quickly identify and isolate any potential sick horses to protect the rest of the herd.”

But Is It Working?

Though the EDCC is working as intended (as a warning system that can help prevent the spread of infectious equine diseases), more reporting of diseases is necessary. Submission of any disease to the EDCC is voluntary—whether it’s considered reportable or not.

“Reporting to the EDCC is voluntary, but strongly encouraged as a means for increasing awareness of equine infection diseases in the U.S.,” says Flynn. “Horse owners want to know if there is disease in the area that could put their horse at risk, so it’s important for horse owners to support and encourage reporting of equine infectious diseases cases by their veterinarian to the EDCC.”

The EDCC is a unique resource that serves to protect horses and the horse industry. All horse owners should sign up for EDCC alerts so they can be informed and aware of possible infectious disease in their area.

“Vigilance is necessary to ensure we’re adequately prepared for the storm—horse health, weather, or otherwise,” says White.

You can do your part by promoting the EDCC “as the trusted, accurate and verified disease alerts and biosecurity information,” says Flynn.

There is no fee associated with the use of the EDCC. However, donations to keep the service going are welcomed—and necessary.

Learn more at equinediseasecc.org.

This article about the Equine Disease Communications Center appeared in the September 2024 issue of Horse Illustrated magazine. Click here to subscribe!

The post How the Equine Disease Communications Center is Changing the Game appeared first on Horse Illustrated Magazine.

Mild and Severe

Working in the show horse mecca of Wellington, Fla., Meg Miller Turpin, DVM, DACIVM, of Rood & Riddle Equine Hospital, routinely treats horses with equine asthma.

Miller Turpin explains that mild to moderate equine asthma is also referred to as inflammatory airway disease (IAD), while severe asthma is best described as recurrent airway obstruction (RAO).

“Mild and moderate [IAD] are the earlier forms of the disease, which we tend to see in young and middle-aged horses,” she explains. “If caught early, it can be reversible. When aggressive treatment and essential management changes are applied to these reactive horses, then many will completely recover. In the sport horse world, we’ve improved our early diagnostic measures, which allows treatment before the condition becomes severe and irreversible.

“Unfortunately, when the disease progresses to severe [RAO], there are lung changes that are irreversible, so then we must rely on figuring out the best way to manage the symptoms,” Miller Turpin adds.

In the past, this airway condition was known as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) or “heaves.” Many horse owners still refer to such respiratory conditions as heaves.

“The terms are often used interchangeably, but they all mean basically the same thing: mucous plugs in a hypersensitive airway,” explains Miller Turpin.

Clinical Signs of Equine Asthma

Signs of equine asthma can include:

• Coughing
• Nasal discharge
• Wheezing
• Flared nostrils when breathing normally
• Increased respiratory effort/heavy breathing
• Increased respiratory rate, even at rest
• Poor performance
• Resistance to work
• Exercise intolerance
• Anhidrosis (partial or total inability to sweat)
• Elevated heart rate during exercise or recovery
• Prolonged recovery after exercise

“We see a lot of horses with anhidrosis in Florida,” says Miller Turpin. “I’ve found that many horses with mild or moderate asthma [IAD] stop sweating, so that’s a double whammy. Sometimes you can get them to start sweating again once you get the airway issues under control.”

She finds that horses suffering from equine asthma can take much longer to recover from exercise—as long as 30 to 60 minutes to start breathing normally.

When a horse’s heart rate is much higher than it should be for the rate at which he’s working, this can indicate a lung problem is preventing the heart from getting enough oxygen to pump to the rest of the body, including muscles required for action.

Affected horses can have elevated respiratory rates as high as 50 to 90 (or more!) breaths per minute. Keep in mind, normal respiration for an adult horse is 8 to 20 breaths per minute.

Dramatically high respiratory rates combined with hot weather can be life threatening.

Causes and Triggers of Equine Asthma

Equine asthma is typically related to inhaled allergens and irritants. These can be year-round, such as dust, mold and fungal spores found in hay, straw and poorly ventilated or closed-up barns.

Other horses may only be susceptible to seasonal allergens, such as pollen encountered during specific times of year, typically spring and summer, or sometimes fall. Seasonal allergies can be easier to manage because you know when to expect a problem.

Miller Turpin finds that if horses have had a respiratory virus or a bacterial infection of the airway, this can make them more vulnerable to irritants that act as triggers.

It is believed that some horses may have a genetic predisposition to developing asthma, and when faced with environmental triggers, like dust, they will develop clinical signs.

Sensitive horses that often get hives and are very reactive to topical products and/or vaccines may be more likely to develop equine asthma.

“Horses that are stalled in cold climates in the winter with windows closed are set up for even more reactions to dust and molds,” says Turpin Miller. “Ammonia levels from urine in the stall can be toxic to the airways in a closed environments with poor ventilation. In tropical Florida, we have all this growth, bloom and mold, so even if horses receive additional turnout, there are still triggers in different grasses [and the] hay that is delivered from different areas of the United States and Canada.”

Those inhaled allergens and irritants cause inflammation, which leads to airway constriction as the tissue lining the small airways in the lungs narrows and becomes thickened. The smooth muscle surrounding these airways also constricts and tightens. Thick, sticky mucous accumulates in the airways, which also obstructs breathing.

As a result, inhaling and expelling air from the lungs becomes an effort for the horse. When the condition goes untreated, lung tissue can suffer permanent damage, resulting in irreversible loss of lung function.

Over time, horses can develop what is known as a “heave line” along the bottom of the rib cage on both sides as the abdominal muscles enlarge due to the continued effort of exhaling.

Diagnosing Equine Asthma

When a horse exhibits clinical signs that point to equine asthma, the veterinarian should do a thorough physical exam, including ultrasound of the lungs and a resting airway scope of the upper respiratory tract.

The veterinarian may also wish to perform a scope while the horse is exercising to rule out a mechanical cause, such as a displaced palate or abnormal epiglottis.

Should the horse’s heart rate be abnormally elevated, the veterinarian may use an exercise EKG to evaluate the horse under exercise.

Skin allergy testing may also be used to determine specific allergens that might be associated with inflammatory airway disease.

When equine asthma seems likely after these exams, the veterinarian will likely use a procedure known as bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) to better define the diagnosis.

The BAL can be done without taking the horse to a clinic. While the horse is sedated, a special tube is passed through the nostril into the trachea and down into part of the lung. Sterile saline is flushed in and suctioned back out, drawing cells and mucous out with the fluid. These samples are then submitted for cytological analysis to pinpoint the most effective treatment.

Treatment Protocol

The traditional medical approach is to address inflammation with corticosteroids and, if necessary, open the airways with a bronchodilator.

The duration and amount of medication used is tailored to the specific horse.

Although systemic steroids have been the gold standard to relieve inflammation and asthma signs, these drugs can suppress the immune system and carry risks, such as laminitis.

Administering steroids via nebulizer or inhaler, instead of orally or by injection, may reduce the risk of side effects by targeting the steroids directly to the lungs.

“With competition horses, you also have to consider competition regulations and withdrawal times,” says Miller Turpin.

Some regenerative medicines are being used with promise, including stem cells. Another innovative treatment uses a patented process to filter alpha-2-macroglobulin (A2M) from the horse’s own blood. This protein has powerful anti-inflammatory properties and can be administered via a nebulizer. (Studies are still necessary to prove the efficacy of these medications.)

Supplements may also help. Miller Turpin notes that both high doses of Vitamin C and omega-3 fatty acids have lung health benefits.

It also appears that acupuncture can help breathing function in some horses with equine asthma.

The Importance of Management

Owners need to be very aware of their horse’s environment and any individual triggers. For the horse to experience ongoing relief, management changes are a crucial part of treatment protocol.

“You can treat aggressively with medications in the early stages and the horses may respond well, but if you don’t take away the triggers causing the allergy or reactive airway, then as soon as you stop the medication, the symptoms will come back, and often they will be exacerbated,” cautions Miller Turpin.

Depending on which allergens/irritants are to blame, your horse may do better when kept outside as much as possible. On the other hand, horses battling seasonal allergens may have less exposure if they’re not turned out as much that time of year.

Air quality is key. Eliminate dust and mold as much as possible. Reduce allergen/irritant exposure by:

• Using the stall with the most airflow (usually an end stall).
• Reconsider bedding (straw is often the worst choice; peat moss or cardboard may be better).
• Remove the affected horse from the barn whenever cleaning stalls, sweeping, or using a blower.

Forage Considerations

Obviously, forage is the main part of the equine diet. For asthmatic horses, however, hay can be a primary source of allergens and irritants.

Some owners find that dampening or steaming hay helps. Dry hay is not recommended, and round bales are an absolute no-no due to their high levels of dust, fungal and mold spores.

“These horses do better when you replace hay with chopped forage, pellets or complete feed,” says Miller Turpin.

Case History

The first indication Natalie Pai’s Oldenburg stallion, Mister-C, had respiratory issues was a hacking cough at the beginning of his workouts.

After Pai imported the stallion to Florida, she found he was also very sensitive to topical products, often breaking out in hives.

Miller Turpin examined Mister-C and did a series of skin allergy tests, which showed he was reactive to a wide array of allergens. She also performed airway endoscopy and a BAL. He was diagnosed with equine asthma due to severe allergies.

A2M and steroid/bronchodilator treatments through a nebulizer are part of his routine. He also gets allergy shots administered subcutaneously every two weeks. His hay is steamed to remove any dust.

“His breathing is very well managed now,” says Pai, who understands the frustration of breathing problems since she herself has allergy-induced asthma.

Key Takeaway

When a horse has breathing abnormalities, especially combined with skin sensitivities, have your veterinarian conduct an exam for possible equine asthma. Being proactive with early treatment and management changes may keep the condition from becoming severe and irreversible.

Further Reading
◆ Horse Respiratory Issues: Management of Asthma and Other Disorders
◆ Horse Allergies: Symptoms, Treatment, and Prevention

This article about equine asthma appeared in the July 2024 issue of Horse Illustrated magazine. Click here to subscribe!

The post What is Equine Asthma? appeared first on Horse Illustrated Magazine.

Here’s what to watch for to catch this cancer early and what to do if your horse has it.

What is Squamous Cell Carcinoma?

The name itself—squamous cell carcinoma—can sound confusing and even intimidating, so let’s start with the basics.

What is a squamous cell, anyway? These are normal cells in the body. They are primarily found in the skin, particularly at mucocutaneous borders. These borders are where dry skin intersects with a mucous membrane, such as the line between skin and the lips, nostrils, anus, genitals, and eyelids.

Understanding the normal location of this cell type then provides context for where SCC is commonly found: in or around the eye, the genitalia and anus, and lips/nose.

The term “carcinoma” refers to a type of cancer that starts within skin cells or the lining of internal organs. In addition to SCC, there are a few other types of carcinomas, such as basal cell carcinoma, which is rare in horses but common in humans.

SCC development is related to sun and subsequent UV exposure. It’s no surprise, then, that SCC is common in horses who can spend most of their life outside, accumulating UV skin damage.

However, horses with lots of non-pigmented (pink) skin on their faces, such as horses with wide blazes or bald faces where eyes and muzzles have pink skin, have a higher rate of SCC.

Breeds that tend to have extended white on their faces such as Clydesdales, Belgians, Appaloosas, and some Paints have a higher risk of developing SCC than other breeds. Lighter-colored horses, such as palominos and cremellos, are also at higher risk for SCC.

What To Look For

So what does SCC look like in a horse? Typically, this tumor initially appears as a small, raised lump or nodule under the skin. SCC within the eye may give the cornea a flat or roughened opaque appearance.

Early SCC can be easily missed due to its small size and sometimes hidden location. As the tumor grows, it can erupt, become ulcerated, and start to impinge on neighboring tissues. SCC of the eyelid can be particularly problematic. As the tumor enlarges, it may start to pull at the lid. This can either rub the cornea or pull outward, resulting in the inability of the horse to fully close his eye.

Because it is easier to remove when it is small, the best course of action with SCC is early detection. When you groom your horse, keep an eye out for odd bumps or lesions. Owners of white-faced horses should be especially observant of their horse’s facial features on a regular basis, including a close look at the eye itself.

SCC on the eyelid typically starts off looking like a small scab, while SCC at the corner of the eye or within the third eyelid is typically a raised, pink mass. Horses with ocular SCC may also have eye discharge.

Regular checks should also include the genitals and underneath your horse’s tail. For male horses, make the most of sheath cleaning: this is the perfect time for an inspection.

SCC Treatment Options for Horses

What should you do if you find something suspicious on your horse? The first step is to have your vet out. Although you may have a very high suspicion of SCC based on the lump’s location or your horse’s history or pigment pattern, you can’t diagnose SCC based on visual examination alone.

Sometimes SCC can be confused with scar tissue, other types of tumors (such as papillomas or sarcoids), or even a skin allergy. A biopsy, or tissue sample, is the best way to definitively diagnose this tumor.

Once your vet confirms the diagnosis, it’s time to talk treatment options. As with most tumors, its location, size, and involvement of neighboring tissues heavily influence treatment options and prognosis.

Surgical removal is a common choice, but location of the tumor dictates treatment success rate. For example, SCC at the corner of the eyelid can be very challenging to reconstruct after removal of the diseased tissue. Other times, SCC may grow into deeper structures around the eye. In these circumstances, total enucleation may be the best option for the horse’s future.

Adjunct treatments along with surgical removal are the most common choices of treatment and management of SCC. These adjunct therapies occur at the time of surgery and may need to be repeated.

Cryotherapy (freezing) is a common adjunct therapy that can be done on site at your barn. Your vet will apply liquid nitrogen, which is -320° Fahrenheit, to the edges where the tumor was removed. This helps destroy any leftover cancer cells.

Some radiation and chemotherapy options are also available. Depending on the regimen, they may require a visit or two to a referral hospital for application.

Photodynamic dye therapy (PDT) is a relatively newer option for SCC treatment. This therapy involves injecting a dye containing photosensitive compounds into the affected area.

This dye is taken up selectively by the cancer cells. Next, a focused beam of light using a specific wavelength is directed at the diseased tissue. The light reacts with the dye, creating a skin reaction that kills the tissue.

Because only the cancer cells take up the dye, other nearby healthy tissue is relatively unaffected, providing a much more focused treatment compared to radiation and chemotherapy.

Prognosis after surgery and adjunct therapy for SCC depends heavily on the size and location of the tumor and how locally invasive it is. Horse owners should note, too, that once a horse has had SCC, he is at higher risk of developing it again.

Prevention Tips

Along with regular close monitoring of your horse’s skin, reducing your horse’s exposure to UV radiation is another tool for SCC prevention. Regularly applying sunblock to your horse’s non-pigmented facial features can help, as can putting a fly mask on your horse in the summer months to shade his eyes.

Interestingly, researchers at the University of California-Davis School of Veterinary Medicine have identified an equine gene variant that is a risk factor for ocular SCC in certain breeds, including Haflingers, Belgians, Rocky Mountain Horses, Connemaras, Holsteiners, and Belgian Warmbloods.

Horse owners can send plucked hairs from the mane that include the roots to the UC Davis Veterinary Genetics Laboratory to identify whether their horses are at higher genetic risk of developing ocular SCC.

Treatment options continue to develop for this equine cancer, and horse owners have more options than they did just a decade ago. While this is encouraging, the best course of action is still vigilance to catch this tumor early for a full recovery.

Key Takeaway

As with any cancer, squamous cell carcinoma is intimidating. But remember—prevention and early detection are your best weapons.

This article about squamous cell carcinoma in horses appeared in the June 2024 issue of Horse Illustrated magazine. Click here to subscribe!

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Enteroliths are mineralized intestinal stones that sometimes form within the horse’s colon. The condition can become serious if a stone gets too large to pass through the digestive tract. When an enterolith causes obstruction, surgical removal is the only solution to avoid a fatal gastrointestinal rupture.

It takes at least a year—but more likely several years—for an enterolith to become large enough to form an obstruction.

The process under which enteroliths gradually form is known as enterolithiasis.

What’s Causes Enteroliths in Horses?

Like a pearl, an enterolith starts by forming around something. This small, indigestible object could be a pebble, coin, piece of rubber or wire, or even a piece of baling twine, rope, or fabric the horse has swallowed.

Mineral salts in the horse’s intestine or colon sometimes form around the object. These struvite crystals are comprised mainly of magnesium, ammonium and phosphate.

To support this struvite mineralization, there must be the correct environment within the colon, which includes a higher pH/more alkaline colonic contents, combined with a rich combination of minerals.

Diets high in alfalfa hay are most likely to create this optimal environment for mineralization.

“Alfalfa is a forage with a relatively high buffering capacity compared with other forages, thus it contributes to the more alkaline colonic environment needed for enterolith formation,” says Diana M. Hassel, DVM, Ph.D., Dipl ACVS, a colic surgeon at Colorado State University Veterinary Teaching Hospital and professor in the Department of Clinical Services. “The other big contributing factor is likely the mineral content in alfalfa. Magnesium has been implicated, and it is particularly high in alfalfa grown in certain areas versus others.”

Some studies have recognized higher magnesium and other minerals in the water in regions of the country where enterolithiasis is more common.

The enterolith that forms around a hard object like a pebble, coin, or wire can be round, spherical, triangular, or flat in shape. Enteroliths can vary in size from as small as a walnut to larger than a grapefruit. Among the most dangerous are those that are baseball-sized.

When the horse swallows a soft foreign body like baling twine, it can become mineralized, resulting in the formation of hundreds of tiny enteroliths along the piece of twine.

Risk Factors

Risk factors for enterolith formation include:

• Geographical region
• Diet high in alfalfa
• Stall confinement
• Sibling that developed the condition

California, Texas, Florida and Arizona are the primary areas for enterolithiasis in the U.S. This may be related to minerals in the soil, and/or the fact that many horses in these states eat a high or all-alfalfa diet.

“It’s not known whether it’s the water, the soil, the alfalfa itself, or simply the amount of alfalfa owners feed in these regions that makes these areas at higher risk,” notes Hassel. “Within the state of California, there are areas with very few enterolith cases, even when alfalfa is fed frequently, and other areas where [cases are] commonly found.”

Hassel points out that stall confinement and diets high in alfalfa are the only repeatably documented risk factors for enterolithiasis, with high alfalfa diets being the most impactful.

“Alfalfa is higher in protein than most other forages, and this may provide a source of nitrogen for the ammonium content in enteroliths—and contribute to the higher pH in the colon,” says Hassel.

She notes that the roles of phosphorus and other minerals, such as calcium and zinc, are not well established.

Studies have shown that Arabians and Morgans are most commonly affected, but Hassel notes that no breeds are “immune” to developing enteroliths. Any breed may be affected when rich alfalfa hay is fed.

Interestingly, the condition is found in mares more often than in male horses.

Watch for Signs of Enteroliths in Your Horse

Clinical signs of enterolithiasis can include:

• Recurrent bouts of colic/abdominal pain
• Depression/lethargy
• Loose stool
• Change in behavior/“crankiness”
• Weight loss
• Resentment when girth is tightened
• Reduced performance
• Reluctance to go downhill or jump

On occasion, a horse will pass small enteroliths in manure. If you see this happen, it’s a red flag that should not be ignored. This is an indication there may also be a larger stone that can’t pass.

Pay attention when cleaning the stall; a small enterolith passed in the manure will be hard as a rock.

Any time a horse passes a small enterolith, Hassel strongly recommends making an appointment at a veterinary referral facility to have abdominal radiographs performed.

“If there are no large enteroliths present (all are smaller), it may be possible to manage these cases long-term without surgery,” says Hassel. “If larger enteroliths are present, surgical management on an elective basis is a lot less risky and less expensive than an emergency colic surgery.”

Surgical Resolution

When abdominal radiographs reveal the presence of an enterolith too large to pass through the GI tract, surgery is the only solution.

This is not a “wait and see” situation. Without surgery to remove the obstructing enterolith, the horse’s intestine can rupture, causing a painful death.

Fortunately, when the horse is in good condition and without other issues, surgery for enterolith removal has a high success rate.

Reducing Risk of Enteroliths

Horse owners can be proactive and lower their horse’s risk of forming enteroliths.

“The most critical advice is to reduce the quantity of alfalfa fed to 50 percent or less of the diet,” says Hassel. “If the horse is at high risk (for example, already had an enterolith removed), I would recommend taking that horse off alfalfa entirely.

“Keep in mind that if your horse has an enterolith and you change his diet to a different hay, that may contribute to movement of the stone downstream in the gastrointestinal tract, resulting in obstructive colic,” she adds.

Hassel encourages any owner who suspects their horse has an enterolith to first have abdominal radiographs done before making diet changes.

Other preventative management techniques include:

• Daily access to pasture/turnout
• Keeping hay and feed free of foreign objects
• Feeding small amounts of grain twice daily with a half-cup of apple cider vinegar (ACV) to attempt to decrease pH level in the gut

Although ACV has a small but reliable impact on decreasing pH in the gut, it can’t dissolve an enterolith that has already formed.

Hassel finds that horses who regularly graze on pasture are at lower risk for developing obstructive enteroliths.

If grazing is not an option, it’s beneficial to keep hay available throughout the day using a slow feeder so the horse doesn’t go for many hours with an empty gut.

Encourage water consumption by ensuring clean, cool water is available 24/7. Electrolytes can help promote drinking when horses consume less water during cool weather.

Because enteroliths form around small objects the horse has swallowed, keep feed areas free of debris. If you use rubber mats, sweep them daily. Make it a routine to clean hay bunks and feed bins frequently.

Careful management, taking proactive measures, and being observant can protect most horses from enterolithiasis.

This article about enteroliths in horses appeared in the May 2024 issue of Horse Illustrated magazine. Click here to subscribe!

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Cribbing is considered a vice, as it can be destructive to property, wear down the horse’s incisors, develop undesirable under-neck muscles, and reduce the value of your horse.

Cribbing is often mitigated by collars, sprays, electric fence wires, and sometimes by reducing stomach acid. Collars may need to be so tight to work that they potentially cause damage to the skin, nerves and airflow.

Reducing stomach acid may temporarily decrease cribbing, but it may also be contrary to the needs of some horses.

Common causes of cribbing are understood to be boredom, stress, anxiety, diet and habit. Below we’ll bring to light another cause, and a remedy for it.

Three Cribbers, Two Solutions

Over a couple of decades, I have had three cribbers—all off-track Thoroughbreds (OTTBs). The first two horses completely stopped cribbing with diet and lifestyle changes that effectively removed the physical, mental, and emotional discomforts that caused their anxiety and addressed boredom. (Those specific changes are highlighted later in this article.)

A third cribber presented a greater challenge. The diet and lifestyle changes that worked for the others were not quite enough to address his issues of discomfort. I noticed that certain foods and treats caused immediate cribbing, so I eliminated some of the triggers. Basically, any treats (apples, carrots, cookies, et cetera), complete feeds, and ration balancers all caused immediate cribbing.

Wrong Answers

I begrudgingly put a collar on him. The collar worked initially—until it didn’t. I tightened it. It worked a little longer and then it didn’t. I tightened it once more with the same result.

When swelling under the horse’s jaw began, I removed the collar and let him crib at will. Electric fence was used in places to avoid him self-soothing in those locations.

It was clear this horse was cribbing to seek comfort. The question was, why?

I tried reducing his stomach acid by using Omeprazole, a proton pump inhibitor (PPI). It reduced the cribbing to some degree, but is not a good long-term solution for physiological and financial reasons.

Light Bulb Moment

One day, my sister was talking about her heartburn and how her throat was on fire and that sucking air in helped cool it, if only for a moment.

I immediately thought, “My horse has GERD (gastroesophageal reflux disease) and is trying to alleviate a burning in his throat.”

Heartburn, or GERD, is the result of stomach acid ascending into the esophagus, resulting in pain or a burning feeling. Heartburn usually occurs after eating. If your horse always cribs during and/or after eating, this may be his problem, too.

Stomach acid gets up into the esophagus because the lower esophageal sphincter (LES) does not close properly. The common cause of this malfunction is low stomach acid. Therefore PPIs like Omeprazole or antacids like Tums and even baking soda being given to lower stomach acid may contribute to cribbing or windsucking. Long-term use of stomach acid suppressors may make it more challenging to recover proper function of the LES.

While some publications found online will indicate PPIs as appropriate for the treatment of GERD, other online articles and videos implicate low stomach acid in reflux. The latter anecdotally proved true in my barn.

The Solution

My horse’s cribbing has been reduced by well over 90 percent by addressing the discomfort he was experiencing with GERD, along with the diet and lifestyle changes that resulted in stopping the other two other horses’ cribbing.

The GERD discomfort was mitigated by adding three dietary ingredients mixed into his feed to coat his throat and esophagus. Those ingredients (listed below) were all organic; however, non-organic might work as well. Initially, this was done twice per day, and eventually added to just one feeding per day.

NOTE: Competitive riders should check with their sport’s governing bodies to ensure all things ingested by their horse are permitted, or if a period of withdrawal is needed for any single ingredient.

These are the dietary and lifestyle changes that helped conquer cribbing in my barn.

Dietary Changes for Cribbing

First, I provided three kinds of quality hay, as horses eat more with variety. Each horse always has access to hay and/or grass. Hay kept on hand usually consists of one first cutting and two second-cutting grass hays.

Next, I cut sugars and other unwanted ingredients proven to trigger cribbing from the horses’ diets. Thus far, I have only found one feed (Cavalor Strucomix Senior) that doesn’t induce cribbing, and unfortunately it’s cost prohibitive. So, I am still mixing my own feed daily. Of course, trial and error of individual ingredients for cribbing reactions followed by formulating and mixing feeds to ensure a diet complete in all nutrients is time consuming and not feasible for most people.

Finally, I began adding 1 teaspoon each of licorice root powder, marshmallow root powder, and slippery elm bark powder mixed into feed. (This step is likely only effective for some horses that crib during and/or directly after feeding.)

Lifestyle Changes for Cribbing

As mentioned before, lifestyle changes alone were enough to stop cribbing in two of the three horses. Here are the changes I made to their management:

1. Ensure as much freedom and movement as possible. All are afforded freedom to walk out of their stalls at any time and into paddocks as weather permits. The only time they choose to stay inside is during bug season.

2. Maximize turnout with at least one well-suited pasture mate. Having horses across the fence during turnout will not suffice for some horses.

Not every horse owner will be able to implement all the changes outlined here due to their facilities or other constraints. Not every horse will need them all. And still others may have an unknown discomfort that needs to be addressed.

If your cribber is most active during and/or after eating, that may be a clue of discomfort caused by GERD. Addressing physical, mental, and emotional discomfort and boredom may eliminate cribbing or at least greatly reduce it.

This article about cribbing appeared in the June 2024 issue of Horse Illustrated magazine. Click here to subscribe!

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