Category: Horse Health

In this article, Caroline George BVMS MRCVS discusses spring worming, the importance of worm control, the Intelligent Worming Programme and correct testing methods. Following the winter, our thoughts swiftly turn to appropriate spring worming strategies for our horses. A variety of endoparasites (worms) infect horses in the UK, the majority of which are carried with minimal harm to the adult horse when managed correctly. However, certain horse worms which in low numbers are unlikely to cause harm, can lead to problems when a larger burden is established. When the population…

Are you doing enough to protect your horse’s joints? Joint health is key to every horse performing and feeling at their best, from companion to Olympic athlete! But, with numerous daily factors impacting equine joints, what should horse owners be doing to protect these delicate structures? Incorporating the best management techniques is a step in the right direction to supporting equine joints. In this article, we investigate best management practices and products to support equine joints. Managing Nutrition To protect your horse’s joints, first consider whether their diet supports good…

Rain Scald, Prevention and Treatment for your horse or pony Rain scald and mud rash are just a couple of the problems that plague horses over the winter months. As the weather begins to change, we are faced with different seasonal skin diseases to deal with in our horses and ponies. Here we take a look at rain scald, where and when it’s likely to strike, prevention, and treatment. What is Rain Scald? Rain scald (or Rain Rot) is superficial dermatitis in horses caused by the bacterium Dermatophilus Congolensis. This…

Equine obesity is now considered an equine welfare crisis by many leading animal charities in the UK. With the rise of equine obesity across a nation of horse-lovers, why are we facing an equine obesity problem? This article starts off by looking at the dangers of obesity in horses before looking at the horse owners’ part in the problem. The Dangers of Obesity in Horses With one study finding that less than 1% of horse owners perceived weight gain as an issue, the dangers of obesity are more of a…

It is imperative to your horse’s health to get rid of Ragwort from a field where they graze. Timing and equipment are key areas to consider when killing, or removing the weed, along with the correct protective gear for you. When Ragwort is actively growing, it is unpalatable to horses. However, the danger comes when the weed has wilted in the field or dried and found in hay. Once wilted, it remains toxic to horses but loses its bitter taste and will readily be eaten. Often, landowners are keen to…

What is the correct Glucosamine dosage for horses? Needing enough to be effective, yet not too much for it to go to waste, or worse, be unsafe. Here we untangle how much Glucosamine horses actually need in their diet. What is Glucosamine? Glucosamine is an essential component of normal, healthy articular cartilage in horses and humans. Covering the ends of bones when they come together to form joints, healthy articular cartilage is crucial for smooth, functioning joints for movement and performance. Glucosamine for horses is an indispensable supplement, especially for…

Dehydration in Horses: What to look out for  Dehydration in Horses is common during the hotter months, therefore, it remains vitally important to recognise warning signs, alongside understanding how to prevent and treat should the issue occur. Here, Dr Jessica May, UK lead vet at the video vet service FirstVet, is on hand to give the best advice on the matter. Signs of Dehydration in Horses In hot weather, horses rely heavily on sweating for temperature regulation, leaving them prone to dehydration caused by the loss of electrolytes. The heat and…