Category: Horse Health

written by MAA Practitioner Nikki Roughtledge Here, along with the help of the Animal Health Trust, we focus on the difference between a Chiropractor and Physiotherapist, also known as ‘back men’, or women if you prefer. Understanding the difference between the two is essential when getting the right help for your horse. “What’s the difference between animal chiropractic techniques and physiotherapy?” This is a question which gets asked from time to time, and it is a valid one. With the increasing number of skilled practitioners in both spheres, it isn’t surprising…

What is atypical myopathy, or sycamore poisoning, and what you need to know Written by Hannah Briggs Atypical myopathy, or sycamore poisoning, is a devastating disease that can occur in horses and donkeys of any age and breed. It occurs as a result of ingesting sycamore seeds and saplings, which contain the toxin hypoglycin A that causes severe damage to the postural, cardiac and respiratory muscles. Over recent years, more instances of Atypical Myopathy (AM) have been recorded. Prevalence of the disease is greatest in the Autumn with around 93%…

A look into complementary therapies for horse and human by Susan McBane Of all the complementary therapies, homeopathy for horse and human must be one of the most controversial due to the lack of adoption and scientific research. The issue of energy, which has different names in different cultures such as qi, chi, prana and others, is a major stumbling block for conventional, western therapists and doctors because not only can energy not be seen but also it has never been proved by western science to even exist. Nevertheless, millions more…

Horse Solarium – Why take the Plunge? If you were planning your perfect yard, what facilities would you include? For the vast majority of people, a horse solarium would definitely make the list. Here Serena Hickson from FMBs Therapy Systems tells us all about solariums, what type to look for, when to use, and the kind of costs you might look to incur if you decide to take the plunge. Solariums are incredibly useful bits of kit; that’s one reason so many yards have them. There are different types, which…

Magnetic therapy for horses is a popular therapy type, and it’s easy to see why – it’s low cost, easily available and can be integrated into most management regimes. In addition to static magnetic therapy there’s Pulsed Electromagnetic Field Therapy (PEMF); still as easy to use, but works in a slightly different way. Here, Serena Hickson, Managing Director of FMBs Therapy Systems, talks to us about the differences and why we might want to use magnetic and PEMF therapy. Magnetic Therapy Static magnetic therapy isn’t a new thing, it’s been used for…

Horse Flies – Take Control! Magazine :: Everything Horse Horse flies, mosquitoes and midges are not good news for your horse. At best they bring considerable stress and bother, causing lumps, swellings, sores, rashes and itchy skin. They may also trigger conjunctivitis and headshaking. At worst they can contaminate wounds or in some countries, they can spread diseases such as West Nile Virus, which can be fatal. It is thought that flies may be responsible for the spread of sarcoids, while the biting midge, Culicoides species, is responsible for sweet…

As foaling season is upon us there are many questions a first time breeder wants to ask. This article should help put your mind at rest by giving you a guide on what a healthy ‘normal’ foal should be doing and when to call the vet. The process of Parturition (giving birth) Tips for encouraging a foal to suckle Interference with the above steps must be kept to a minimum to avoid disrupting the bond between the mare and foal. Sometimes a gentle ‘push in the right direction’ for a…