Equine medicine

Background and Aim: Back disorder is an ailment that often affects athletic and riding horses. Despite the rapidly growing equine athletic and equestrian activities, there is no documentation on the nature of equine back disorder (EBD) in Malaysian horses. The purpose of this study was to characterize EBD cases presented to University Veterinary Hospital, Universiti Putra Malaysia, between 2002 and 2017. Materials and Methods: The compilation of data was based on signalment, case history, duration of clinical signs, anatomical location of the pain, method of diagnosis, type of EBD, treatment, and outcome. The diagnosis of EBD was based on a history of poor performance, clinical examination findings, radiography, and, where applicable, necropsy. Results: A total of 181 diagnosed cases of EBDs were identified. The age of horses ranged from 5 to 22 years. The EBD cases were more prevalent in male than female horses and predominantly in geldings (60.77%). Thoroughbred, Arab, Polo pony, ...

Clinical biochemistry tests are one of the tests designed to assess the functional status of the liver in domestic animals and man. This study evaluated the activities of some serum enzymes and the level of some biochemical parameters in horses with acute and chronic liver damage. This study was carried out in Nigerian horses presented for sale at the Obollo Afor horse depot, Udenu Local Government Area, Enugu State Nigeria. A total of 100 adult Nigerian horses of either sex were studied once a week for a period of 24 weeks. Serum biochemistry parameters indicated for the assessment of liver function were evaluated following standard procedures. These parameters include: Alanine aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alkaline phosphatase (ALP), total proteins, albumin, globulin, total cholesterol, total bilirubin and urea. Based on the outcome of the serum biochemistry evaluation, the horses were assigned into 3 groups namely: apparently healthy horses (Group 1), horses with biochemical markers of acute liver damage (Group 2) and horses with biochemical markers of chronic liver damage (Group 3). The mean serum ALT, AST, ALP and total bilirubin values of group 2 horses were significantly (p < 0.05) higher than those of groups 1 and 3 horses. The mean serum albumin value of group 2 horses was significantly (p < 0.05) lower than that of groups 1 and 3 horses. There was no significant (p > 0.05) difference in the mean serum urea value of group 2 and 3. A significantly (p < 0.05) lower serum creatinine value was observed in group 2 horses. There were no significant (p > 0.05) differences in the mean serum total protein, globulin and cholesterol values across the groups. In the spent horses, acute liver damage was characterized by increased serum ALT, AST and ALP activities, and decrease in creatinine level, hyperbilirubinemia, slight hypoalbuminemia, normal total protein, globulin and cholesterol levels while chronic liver damage was characterized by decreased serum ALT activity, normal serum AST and ALP activities, decreased serum urea level, normal total protein, albumin, globulin, total bilirubin and cholesterol levels.

Equine colic has been a devastating endemic disease condition confronted by horse owners in Malaysia. However, little attention is paid to the management aspect of these horses and the prevalence of colic. Therefore, this study was conducted to determine the relationship between colic cases and horse usages, gender, breed, management system of establishments and the status of horses. Data were obtained from the University Veterinary Hospital, Universiti Putra Malaysia particularly from the equine and pathology units from January 2005 to December, 2011. Of the 92 number of horses studied for colic cases referred to the hospital, 40% were both stallions and mares respectively while 20% were geldings. 42% were used for patrolling, 18% for multipurpose, 14% were used for endurance followed by 10% for riding school, while 7% were used for both leisure ride and polo respectively and the least 2% were used for dressage. Three types of colic disease conditions were diagnosed and treated and these include tympanic (66%), spasmodic (23%) and impaction (11%) colic. Thus, these findings could assist veterinarians engrossed in the diagnosis and treatment of the conditions to put in place laudable measures in the prevention of the disease conditions.

This chapter explores how representatives of the thoroughbred racing industry conceptualise thoroughbred welfare, what their ethical underpinnings are, how this contrasts with welfare conceptions expressed by thoroughbred protection advocates and what this means for thoroughbred welfare. The research presented here is part of a larger study that investigates the future for horses in thoroughbred racing and the sustainability of welfare concepts. Nine industry representatives from the US and Australia, and seven representatives of thoroughbred advocacy organisations from the US, Australia and Great Britain, have been interviewed. Industry informants characterise welfare mainly in terms of basic health and functioning. The welfare dimensions of thoroughbred agency, integrity and telos are largely ignored. Three main groups of welfare issues emerge: the use and potential overuse of drugs and medication; injuries and death on the racetrack; and the aftercare of thoroughbreds exiting the industry. It appears the industry pursues three objectives with their welfare initiatives: to address only the most egregious welfare violations of industry practices on and off the track; to influence the public’s perception of the industry and its treatment of the thoroughbred; and to focus on productivity, efficiency and optimisation of the commodifiable characteristics of the thoroughbred. It is not likely that this will result in net gains for thoroughbred welfare.

Recumbent horses are fractious, frustratingly difficult, and very dangerous to handle. Even dead horses represent a significant challenge to manipulate for staff safety due to their great weight and
size. Safe manipulation requires knowledge of anatomy and physiology to prevent injury when emplacing webbing or slings, as well as proper personnel positioning. Technical Large Animal Emergency Rescue

Cutaneous or subcutaneous lymphoma is one of the four different forms appearing in the horse. This type of equine lymphoma is usually lymphohistiocytic with a T, B or mixed-cell immunophenotype and with a prevalence of less than 3% among skin neoplasms. This is all about a 9-year old Warmblood mare admitted with a 5-month history of multiple cutaneous masses spreading to many parts of the body. Apart from the multiple subcutaneous nodules and plaques, which did not provide discomfort to the horse, no other abnormalities were found either in clinical or laboratory examination. Lesional histopathology and immunohistochemistry revealed a lymphohistiocytic T-cell lymphoma, which most likely was primary. The owner elected not to have her horse treated, but readmitted it for euthanasia 5 months later, because of the worsening of skin lymphoma and the appearance of general and systemic clinical signs. The ensuing postmortem was suggestive of distant metastatic disease (liver, mediastinal l...

Despite the extensive availability and use of plant extracts as feed additives in various livestock species, peer-reviewed and scientific evidence of their usage in horses is lacking. This article dealt with the review of reports from recent studies investigating the usage of plant bioactives or extracts in horse nutrition. For the time being, several herbs, either alone or in composites, are being commercialized and openly available in horsemarket stores, which makes it difficult and confusing for horse owners and veterinarians to make a justifiable choice. Usage of ginger extract as a feed additive in sport horses is encourageable as it manages to attain quick recovery after exhaustion in racing and jumping events. Garlic, ginseng, primerose, and rose hip possess potent antioxidative properties, and their supplemen-tation in a regular diet may lessen the chance of occurrence of oxidative stress-related diseases. Owing to their cytoprotective and mucus-stimulatory effects, licorice and Aloe vera extracts have potentiality as feed additives in Standardbred and Thoroughbred racehorses, as they are more prone for equine gastric ulcer syndrome. Echinacea is able to stimulate the equine immunocompetence on addition to the regular diets of equine species. Besides the anti-inflammatory effect, devils claw possess anorexigenic effect, which can limit feed intake, thus keeping the body condition score in check and avoiding obese-related health problems in horses. Regularizing flaxseed meal or its extract as a dietary supplement may support healthy skin and coat condition due to the presence of omega-3 fatty acids as an active component. Aloe vera, well known for cytoprotective and mucus-stimulatory effects, is found to be efficient in protecting the gastrointestinal tract against ulcers or other disorders on administering as a dietary supplement to equines, but the extent of effect depends on the dosage and extent of supplementation. Although, theoretically plant extracts application is safer compared with synthetic antibiotics or drugs, it does not mean they are completely safe, and few considerations should be given for dosage of the drug, period of administration, apart from monitoring parallel drugs given to prevent herb-drug interactions. The plant extracts with potent benefits, and not tested in horses have to be evaluated with a primary objective to verify the negative side effects, if any, followed by standardization of the dosage.

The equine foot has a specific conformation (shape) that provides maximum biomechanical efficiency. Biomechanical efficiency allows the foot to withstand, accept, absorb, dissipate and transmit loading weight bearing forces in a manner that offers the greatest protection to the horse. This principle implies that there is some combination of foot size, foot shape, wall length and angles that make the foot an ideal shock absorbing, weight-bearing structure. It is the proper combination of these variables are said to constitute what has been described as the properly balanced foot. However, there are currently several conflicting hoof balance reference systems commonly utilised and what constitutes ideal balance has been the subject of great debate for many years. One goal of the research was to investigate the principle of equal geometric proportions and dependentcy on factors such as foot-type and environmental conditions. By utilising a standardised trimming protocol and a hoof mapping system to collect measurement data based on proportionality of the bearing border length the purpose of this study was, partly, to verify whether a commonly used theory of hoof balance, firstly described by Duckett, is achieved. Secondly to determine whether geometric proportions are equivalent following trimming, thereby achieving hoof balance.

A Preliminary Investigation into Noseband Tightness and Oral Soft Tissue Damage in Elite and Non-Elite Horses

Perruccio, F.; Scofield, R.

Oxford Brookes University

Introduction: Growing concern in recent years regarding excessively tightened nosebands in horses across all disciplines has prompted increasing amounts of research. Various studies have found that tight nosebands may impair welfare by affecting facial nerve tissue, vascular perfusion, facial skin temperature, heart rate, heart rate variability, eye temperature, and the expression of post-inhibitory behaviours (McGreevy et al. 2012; Casey et al. 2013; Fenner et al. 2016). The study aimed to determine the relationship between noseband tightness and oral soft tissue damage in elite and non-elite horses.

Materials and Methods:16 horses of mixed age (mean 13.25), breed, discipline (dressage n=5, showjumping n=6, eventing n=1, leisure n=2, riding school n=2), work duration (mean 6.7 years), and work level (elite n=7, non-elite n=9) were used in this study. Non-elite horses included hackers and leisure horses while elite horses were those in competition or training, or had been in competition within the last 2 years. The first seven horses resided at El Pulté Equestrian Country Club and the remaining nine horses at La Ronda in Jocotenango, Guatemala. All horses had different owners except for 3 at El Pulté. Palpation data were collected by rinsing the mouth of leftover food or hay with a 400mL syringe of water on both sides. Using the index and middle finger, soft tissue of the rostral aspect of the mouth was palpated. Tissue integrity was then scored on an independently devised scale ranging from zero to five (see results in table 1). All dental examinations were performed by dentist and veterinarian Guillermo Alvarez and all photographs were taken with a Canon EOS Rebel T3i EF-S automatic camera with an 18-55mm lens, except for samples 13, 14, 15, and 16, whose images were captured on an iPhone 6s. Obtaining photographic evidence involved the administration of 5mL of Xylamed (xylazine) 100mg/mL as a sedative to allow full dental examination. Noseband tightness was assessed by having the owner, groom or general handler and tighten the noseband of the most often used bridle (used three or more times per week) on the horse. Once it was verified that the tightness of the noseband matched the imprints in the leather to reduce variability, the ISES taper gauge was used to determine which category the noseband tightness fell within (1. taper gauge cannot be inserted; 2. can be inserted up to the first ‘finger’ mark; 3. can be inserted up to the second ‘finger’ mark; 4. can be inserted past the second ‘finger’ mark). Due to the need of professional supervision by Dr. Alvarez, one set of data were collected per horse. Data were analysed using Minitab17©.

Results: Statistical analysis using Chi-squared goodness of fit showed non-significance for noseband tightness (X2=6, df=15, P=0.98) and palpation score (X2=14.8092, df=15, P=0.465). There was a significant difference (X2=35, df=15, P=0.002) between the expected and observed values for image score. 18% of the cohort scored one (irritated, tender tissue or old scar tissue) and 6% scored two (minor visual or palpable scar tissue). Additionally, Pearson’s correlation coefficient produced an r value of 0.05, non-significant (p=0.84) for noseband (median = 2, mean = 2) and image score (median = 0.5, mean = 0.8). 

Discussion and Conclusions: While the relationship between noseband tightness and image score was non-significant, the high level of soft tissue damage raises concerns regarding potential effects of tight nosebands. Further research should undertake a larger longitudinal cohort study of naïve horses undergoing different training programs to measure both short and long-term effects of noseband tightness.

Acknowledgements: Many thanks to Dr. Guillermo Alvarez in helping collect photographic evidence and overseeing all procedures.

References: 
Casey, V., McGreevy, P., O'Muiris, E. and Doherty, O. 2013. A preliminary report on estimating the pressures exerted by a crank noseband in the horse. Journal of Veterinary Behavior: Clinical Applications and Research, 8(6), 479-484.
Fenner, K., Yoon, S., White, P., Starling, M. and McGreevy, P., 2016. The Effect of Noseband Tightening on Horses’ Behavior, Eye Temperature, and Cardiac Responses. Public Library of Science ONE, 11(5), 0154179.
McGreevy, P., Warren-Smith, A. and Guisard, Y., 2012. The effect of double bridles and jaw-clamping crank nosebands on temperature of eyes and facial skin of horses. Journal of Veterinary Behavior: Clinical Applications and Research, 7(3), 142-148.

Keywords: equine, noseband, welfare, oral soft tissue damage

Etiopathogenesis of equine pyometra is poorly understood. Diagnosis can be made via physical examination and ultrasonography findings. The recurrence of cases after treatment is high. In the present study, a case of equine pyometra was presented to the University Veterinary Teaching hospital, Universiti Putra Malaysia. On presentation, physical examination and ultrasound finding revealed 'snowy' appearance of the uterus. Uterine flushing was performed and milky creamy exudate was collected using uterine flushing tube. Bacteria isolation and identification showed mix growth of Streptococcus dysagalatiae ss equisimilis and Serratia spp. The systemic antibiotics administered were trimetoprim and sulphadiazine intravenously at the dose rate of 1ml/16 kg body weight (26ml), SID for 5 day. However, ultrasonography examination after 3 weeks revealed recurrence of the problem.

Keratomas are uncommon benign neoplasms of the horse hoof with epithelial origin, which are developed from keratin-producing squamous cells of the hoof wall. Normally these processes are related to a previous history of intermittent lameness. Clinical, macroscopic and histopathologic features of a keratoma in the hoof of a horse with a clinical history of chronic lameness are described in this paper. The animal showed a deformity of the hoof frog due to the presence of a mass located at the junction of the coronary band with the white line. A neoplasic proliferation was observed at the histopathologic examination, consisting of epithelial cells and several layers of keratin.

Ocular problems are frequent conditions in cart pulling donkeys. A crosssectional
study was conducted from October 2018 to April 2019 in Wolaita
Sodo city to assess ocular problems in cart pulling donkeys and associated
risk factors. Accordingly, 384 randomly selected cart pulling Donkeys were
examined. Out of the total, 40.7% of donkeys were suffering from ocular
discharge due to improper harness than properly harnessed donkeys (11.5%).
Among the different risk factors, 22.6% of the cart donkeys were affected with
entropion and/or ectropion due to whipping and harness touch. According to
the study, there was a statistically significant (p<0.000) association between
ocular discharge and traumatic wound. However, there is no significant (p>0.05)
association between factors like regular cleaning, whipping, working at night
and working in the bush and keratoconjunctivitis. In addition, most of the
respondents (85.7%) do not regularly clean the eyes of their donkeys. From identified ocular problems, a higher proportion (13.5%) of ocular discharge was found followed by a traumatic wound (7.6%) and cataract (6.3%). In conclusion, ocular problems were major health problems in cart pulling donkeys in the study area. Hence, comprehensive awareness creation on welfare and health management of donkeys should be designed to improve these problems.

Eighteen racing horses from a total of 85 horses that participated in a long-distance (120-km) race were used for this study. The 18 horses that were used comprised nine horses that were eliminated from the race at the 90-km checkpoint because of synchronous diaphragmatic flutter (SDF). Another nine horses that passed the 90-km checkpoint were randomly selected and served as a control group (CT). Horses were sampled at three different times (t 0 , t end , t 2weeks ). Plasma sodium (Na þ ), potassium (K þ ), and chloride (Cl À ) concentrations were decreased at the end of the race to insignificant levels. A significant reduction (P % .05) was observed in the ionized calcium (Ca þþ ). Lipid peroxide (LPO) and malondialdehyde (MDA) concentrations in plasma were higher compared with values obtained before the start of the race. In SDF-eliminated horses, these parameters were higher than in the control horses. Glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px) activity was significantly lower at the end of the race, whereas creatine phosphokinase (CPK) was similarly increased fourfold in both groups. A significant increase in lactate concentration was seen in both groups; however, this parameter was significantly higher in the SDF-eliminated horses than in the control group. Statistical significance (P < .01) was observed between LPO and MDA levels and the Ca þþ concentration in the SDF group at the three sampling points. This study established elevated lipid peroxidation product level as one component of the biochemical characteristics of SDF. The low level of Ca þþ in plasma of horses was associated with high levels of lipid peroxidation indexes.

Background and Aim: The medical treatment of horses with nephrosplenic entrapment (NSE) of the large colon through administrating phenylephrine and rolling during general anesthesia was effective and less expensive than surgical treatment. However, the selection of drugs for non-surgical treatment of NSE is not a usual method for clinical practice. This study aimed to identify the effects of combined drugs on the cardiac and splenic response in horses and provide information on the NSE of the large colon for clinical application.

Materials and Methods: Six healthy Thai native crossbred horses were enrolled in this study. Horses received two protocols with a withdrawal period of 14 days: Group 1 received xylazine (0.5 mg/kg IV) and adrenaline (1 mcg/kg IV), and Group 2 received xylazine (0.5 mg/kg IV) and adrenaline (3 mcg/kg IV). Heart rate (HR), HR variability (HRV), heart dimensions, and the splenic response of six horses were measured before the sedation, 30 and 60 min later, and 65, 70, 75, 80, 90, and 100 min after adrenaline administration. Doppler was used to obtain systolic blood pressure.

Results: The HRV low-frequency and high-frequency power ratios decreased after using xylazine. Hypertension was observed after adrenaline administration. In this study, there were only minimal differences in the HR and respiratory rate between groups. However, overall cardiac and splenic parameters were statistically higher in Group 2.

Conclusion: This study suggested that xylazine and three micrograms of adrenaline preserved the cardiac autonomic activity balance and were safe to use non-surgical applicability in horses.

In Chapter 9 of the catalogue entitled, Al-Tibb: Healing Traditions in Islamic Medical Manuscripts, I discuss the Mamluk equestrianism and veterinary in the era of the Sultan al-Nasir Muhammad Ibn Qalawun and the treatise his veterinarian Abu Bakr al-Nasiri wrote.
The catalogue is published by Islamic Arts Museum Malaysia

Problem statement: Endurance horses are generally exposed to severe stress during endurance competitions. These horses are however conditioned to cover the long distances of the competitions at moderate speeds. Approach: This study was conducted in Malaysia to determine the post-race hematological, blood electrolyte and biochemical and physical parameters of horses of 40, 80 and 120 km endurance race categories and eliminated and horses that completed the races with good performance. Whole blood, plasma and serum samples were collected after each race. Results: After physical examination 7 (9.72%) 120 km-, 48 (66.67%) 80 km-and 17 (23.61%) 40 km-race horses were eliminated. Eight horses, all from the 80 km-race category completed the race with good performance. The mean heart of the good performance horses (74.2±13.9 beats min −1 ) was higher than that of the eliminated 40 km-(68.2±14.7 beats min −1 ), 80 km-race (62.9±9.7 beats min −1 ) horses. The blood lactate concentration of good performance horses was 9.2±2.2 mmol L −1 , which was significantly higher than in the 40 km-(6.0±2.9 mmol L −1 ), 80 km-(6.7±3.2 mmol L −1 ) and the 120 km-race (6.4±1.6 mmol L −1 ) horses. The blood glucose concentration was lower in the good performance horses (1.6±0.9 mmol L −1 ) than the eliminated 40 km-(5.7±1.9 mmol L −1 ), 80 km-(4.3±2.4 mmol L −1 ) and the 120 km-race (5.0±1.4 mmol L −1 ) horses. Conclusion: The study showed that eliminated horses exhibited poorer glucose utilization than good performance horses, which may have resulted in poor lactate production. Thus the blood lactate and glucose concentrations of horses during training may be used to predict their performance in endurance races.

A one month old male Brangus calf with a history of navel ill was referred to the veterinary hospital at University Putra-Malaysia. The calf was pyrexic, dull and depressed with increased respiratory and heart rates. The calf did not respond to the treatment and died. Grossly, the carcass was emaciated and pale. Post-mortem examination revealed oedematous lungs with frothy tracheal exudates, congested kidneys and cauliflower like lesions on both valves of the heart. Histopathologically, necrosis and haemorrhage were observed in the cardiac valves with infiltrations of bacterial colonies. Degeneration and necrosis of many renal tubular cells with evidence of detachment of these cells into the tubular lumen and septic emboli were also seen. In the brain, there were neuronal degeneration, necrosis and vascular injection of small vessels. All findings confirmed the diagnosis of septicemic and vegetative valvular endocarditis squeal to navel ill caused by E. coli infection.

Little data are available in the normal range of conformation traits in jumping thoroughbred horses. The aim of this study was to characterize objectively baseline measurements of lengths and angles in fifty-one jumping thoroughbred horses using tape meter and a computer-aided design program (AutoCAD, 2013). An objective photographic method of evaluating conformation was used. All data were analyzed statistically. The results of the present study revealed that the mean lengths of neck, back and breast width were 100.69±5.6, 92.47±5.66 and 51.2±5.6 cm, respectively. The mean lengths of shoulder, arm, forearm and fore cannon were 69±5, 34±2.9, 46±2.4 and 28.67±2.3 cm, respectively. The back length represented 91.8% of neck length and the arm length represented 49.7% of the shoulder length. The fore cannon length represented 62.3% of the forearm length and the forearm length represented 66.6% of the shoulder length. The fore cannon length represented 41% of the shoulder. The mean lengths of pelvis, thigh, gaskin and hind canon were 51.39±5.12, 49.66±5.12, 53.09±4.8 and 37.44±3.67 cm, respectively. The pelvis, thigh and gaskin lengths were nearly equal. The hind cannon length represented nearly 70% of the lengths of pelvis, thigh and gaskin length. The fore cannon was 25% shorter than the hind cannon. In lateral view, the mean shoulder, elbow, carpus and fore fetlock joint angles were 99±3.74°, 138.37±4.7°, 177.7±2.32° and 142.73±6°, respectively. The mean croup, hip, stifle, hock and hind fetlock angles were 144.63±4.8°, 89±8.34°, 114.94±13°, 148.59±5.3° and 149.84±8°, respectively. In dorsal view, the mean right and left shoulder, elbow, carpus and fore fetlock joint angles were 74.31±3°, 168.27±4°, 176.47±2.4° and 173.53±4.8°, respectively. In conclusion, the obtained results provide guidelines for establishing database for selection jumping thoroughbred with better athletic performance.

This study investigated the occurrence of wounds in Nigerian horses. The study population was 1,621 horses sold at the Obollo Afor horse lairage in Enugu State, Nigeria, during a 6-month period: 3 months of dry season and 3 months of rainy season (February–April and June–August 2012). A total of 207 horses were systematically sampled and subjected to a comprehensive physical examination. Those with wounds were marked, recorded, and clinically examined. Of the 207 horses sampled, 21 (10.1%) had wounds. The body distribution of the wounds was 9.5% head, 9.5% forelimbs, 19.1% hind limbs, 4.8% tail, 14.3% flank, 9.5% loin, 19.1% hip, 9.5% barrel, and 4.8% croup. The occurrence of the wounds was not significantly associated with sex or season, but the occurrence in adults was significantly (p < .05) higher than that in the young and aged horses. It was concluded that the occurrence of wounds is relatively high (10.1%), and mainly the hind limbs, hip, and flank of adult horses are affected. It was recommended that horse guardians and handlers should be properly educated on the care of horses.

Balogun et al /Sokoto Journal of Veterinary Sciences (2017) 15(2): 1-6. Abstract The study investigated the prevalence and distribution of dermatophytes among domestic horses in Kwara state, Nigeria. A total of 91 samples were collected which comprised of skin scrapings and hair from both infected and asymptomatic animals. The highest dermatophyte isolation rate per total samples collected from each of the 7 different Local Government Area (LGAs) was 25% for Ilorin-East. Statistically significant differences (p < 0.05) were observed in the number of dermatophyte isolates obtained from the seven different LGAs. Dermatophytic lesions were observed on four anatomical sites of the body of horses that were sampled. These sites were the limbs, tail, head and abdominal region with dermatophyte isolation rate per total samples collected being 18.7%, 16%, 15% and 10%, respectively. Out of 85 male horses sampled, 12 were positive, and out of the six female horses sampled, two were positive. However, there was no statistically significant difference (p ˃ 0.05) between the total dermatophytes isolated from male (14.1%) or female (33.3%) horses from the seven LGAs in Kwara state. Dermatophytes isolated include Trichophyton tonsurans, Trichophyton verrucosum, Trichophyton soudanense, M. gypseum, Microsporum persicolor, Microsporum equinum and Microsporum fulvum with Trichophyton tonsurans and Trichophyton soudanense being anthropophilic.

Hyperkalaemic periodic paralysis (HYPP) is a relatively new genetic disease that, so far, appears to be confined to descendants of the American Quarter Horse Impressive, a stallion identified as the link between the pedigrees of all affected horses, and that predominantly affects Quarter Horses but also Paint horses, Appaloosas and Palominos. This study suggests that an episode of muscle weakness, which was reported in a Criollo Argentino genetically unrelated to Impressive, was related to marked hyperkalaemia. The symptoms in this case were reproducible following a KCl challenge test although DNA testing for HYPP was negative. Based on these findings, a diagnosis of a HYPP-like syndrome was made.

Background and Aim: The medical treatment of horses with nephrosplenic entrapment (NSE) of the large colon through administrating phenylephrine and rolling during general anesthesia was effective and less expensive than surgical treatment. However, the selection of drugs for non-surgical treatment of NSE is not a usual method for clinical practice. This study aimed to identify the effects of combined drugs on the cardiac and splenic response in horses and provide information on the NSE of the large colon for clinical application. Materials and Methods: Six healthy Thai native crossbred horses were enrolled in this study. Horses received two protocols with a withdrawal period of 14 days: Group 1 received xylazine (0.5 mg/kg IV) and adrenaline (1 mcg/kg IV), and Group 2 received xylazine (0.5 mg/kg IV) and adrenaline (3 mcg/kg IV). Heart rate (HR), HR variability (HRV), heart dimensions, and the splenic response of six horses were measured before the sedation, 30 and 60 min later, and...

Background and Aim: As means for enhancing gastrointestinal (GI) motility, prokinetics have previously been evaluated in different breeds of horses with varying success. No previous studies were conducted to evaluate the effect of prokinetics on the intestinal tract of Arabian horses breed. Using B-mode ultrasound in the quantification of intestinal contractility, this study aimed to compare the impact of neostigmine and metoclopramide on the intestinal motility of healthy Arabian horses. Materials and Methods: Twenty-one clinically healthy Arabian horses were equally distributed into three groups. The control group was administered with 5 mL normal saline intramuscularly (IM). The second group was administered with neostigmine (0.044 mg/kg body weight [BW], IM), and the third group was administered with metoclopramide (0.25 mg/kg BW, IM). Duodenal, cecal, and colonic contractions were counted through ultrasonography for 3 min (pre-administration and 15, 30, 60, 120, and 180 min pos...

Little data are available in the normal range of conformation traits in jumping thoroughbred horses. The aim of this study was to characterize objectively baseline measurements of lengths and angles in fifty-one jumping thoroughbred horses using tape meter and a computer-aided design program (AutoCAD, 2013). An objective photographic method of evaluating conformation was used. All data were analyzed statistically. The results of the present study revealed that the mean lengths of neck, back and breast width were 100.69±5.6, 92.47±5.66 and 51.2±5.6 cm, respectively. The mean lengths of shoulder, arm, forearm and fore cannon were 69±5, 34±2.9, 46±2.4 and 28.67±2.3 cm, respectively. The back length represented 91.8% of neck length and the arm length represented 49.7% of the shoulder length. The fore cannon length represented 62.3% of the forearm length and the forearm length represented 66.6% of the shoulder length. The fore cannon length represented 41% of the shoulder. The mean lengths of pelvis, thigh, gaskin and hind canon were 51.39±5.12, 49.66±5.12, 53.09±4.8 and 37.44±3.67 cm, respectively. The pelvis, thigh and gaskin lengths were nearly equal. The hind cannon length represented nearly 70% of the lengths of pelvis, thigh and gaskin length. The fore cannon was 25% shorter than the hind cannon. In lateral view, the mean shoulder, elbow, carpus and fore fetlock joint angles were 99±3.74°, 138.37±4.7°, 177.7±2.32° and 142.73±6°, respectively. The mean croup, hip, stifle, hock and hind fetlock angles were 144.63±4.8°, 89±8.34°, 114.94±13°, 148.59±5.3° and 149.84±8°, respectively. In dorsal view, the mean right and left shoulder, elbow, carpus and fore fetlock joint angles were 74.31±3°, 168.27±4°, 176.47±2.4° and 173.53±4.8°, respectively. In conclusion, the obtained results provide guidelines for establishing database for selection jumping thoroughbred with better athletic performance.

This review presents a theory of the common etiology of Caudal heel pain syndrome (including navicular disease) and laminitis.  The cause(s) of these diseases has(ve) not been elucidated in previous literature.  We propose that these pathologies are a result of ingestion of toxic ergot alkaloids in feed and forage.  This theory is supported by previously identified biochemistry and clinical findings.  The physiologic mechanisms are not new; however, the proposed causal relationship appears to be unreported in previous literature.

Background and Aim: Upper respiratory tract infections are common in horses and can be caused by a variety of pathogens, mainly Streptococcus equi subsp. equi, which are a significant equine pathogen causing major health issues as well as financial losses to the equine industry. This study aimed to determine the prevalence of Streptococcal bacteria in equines in Egypt, and characterize vancomycin-resistant S. equi subsp. equi phenotypically and genotypically.

Materials and Methods: S. equi subsp. equi was isolated from internal nares of horses. All strains were confirmed by polymerase chain reaction-based detection of Streptococcus genus-specific 16S rRNA, sodA and seeI genes. Antibiotic susceptibility was determined phenotypically using the disk diffusion method. Genotypic detection of antibiotic resistance genes was performed by analyzing as β-lactamase resistance (blaZ), tetracycline resistance (tetK), vancomycin resistance (vanA), and chloramphenicol resistance (fexA).

Results: Eight streptococcal isolates were confirmed as S. equi subsp. equi. The genotypic characterization of antibiotic resistance showed resistance to vanA and tetK, with a frequency of 87.5% and 12.5%, respectively, while the frequency of sensitivity was 100% for blaz gene and fexA gene.

Conclusion: In this study, we assessed vancomycin-resistant S. equi subsp. equi from equines suffering from respiratory manifestation in Egypt.

Background: Equine infectious anemia virus (EIAV) is one of the most important threats to the equine industry globally. This is due to the poor performance of the affected horses, which requires euthanization of the infected animals upon the infection confirmation. Infected animals remain carriers throughout their life. EIAV infection has been reported in many parts of the world, including North America, Europe, Asia, and Africa. However, the EIAV status is never assessed in horses in the Gulf area, especially in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA).

Aim: This study aimed to perform molecular and serological surveillance among some horse populations in Eastern and Central Saudi Arabia.

Materials and Methods: Sera and whole blood were collected from 361 horses and 19 donkeys from the eastern and central regions of Saudi Arabia during January 2014-December 2016. Sera were tested by the commercial EIAV enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay kits. Moreover, the collected blood samples were tested by the commercial real-time polymerase chain reaction kits.

Results: Our serological surveillance revealed the absence of any antibodies against EIAV in the tested animals. Similar results were reported for the tested horses' plasma. This study confirms the absence of EIAV in horses and donkeys from Eastern and Central Saudi Arabia during the tenure of the current study. However, careful monitoring of the EIAV is highly recommended to avoid the emergence of such a virus in the horse population in Saudi Arabia.

Conclusion: To the best of our knowledge, this is the first EIAV surveillance conducted not only in Saudi Arabia but also in the Gulf area. This study confirms the absence of EIAV in the tested equine population in the eastern and central regions of Saudi Arabia during 2014-2016.

The importance of horse (Equus caballus) to equine practitioners and researchers cannot be ignored. An unevenly distributed population of equids harbors numerous diseases, which can affect horses of any age and breed. Among these, the affections of nervous system are potent reason for death and euthanasia in equids. Many episodes associated with the emergence of equine encephalitic conditions have also pose a threat to human population as well, which signifies their pathogenic zoonotic potential. Intensification of most of the arboviruses is associated with sophisticated interaction between vectors and hosts, which supports their transmission. The alphaviruses, bunyaviruses, and flaviviruses are the major implicated groups of viruses involved with equines/humans epizootic/epidemic. In recent years, many outbreaks of deadly zoonotic diseases such as Nipah virus, Hendra virus, and Japanese encephalitis in many parts of the globe addresses their alarming significance. The equine encephalitic viruses differ in their global distribution, transmission and main vector species involved, as discussed in this article. The current review summarizes the status, pathogenesis, pathology, and impact of equine neuro-invasive conditions of viral origin. A greater understanding of these aspects might be able to provide development of advances in neuro-protective strategies in equine population.

Is everybody aware of the fact that a wrong saddle or a poor saddle fit can be dangerous for the horse welfare and affect its performance?
Siamo tutti consapevoli del fatto che una sella sbagliata o inadatta può essere dannosa per il benessere del cavallo e influire negativamente sulla sua performance?

Background and Aim: The medical treatment of horses with nephrosplenic entrapment (NSE) of the large colon through administrating phenylephrine and rolling during general anesthesia was effective and less expensive than surgical treatment. However, the selection of drugs for non-surgical treatment of NSE is not a usual method for clinical practice. This study aimed to identify the effects of combined drugs on the cardiac and splenic response in horses and provide information on the NSE of the large colon for clinical application. Materials and Methods: Six healthy Thai native crossbred horses were enrolled in this study. Horses received two protocols with a withdrawal period of 14 days: Group 1 received xylazine (0.5 mg/kg IV) and adrenaline (1 mcg/kg IV), and Group 2 received xylazine (0.5 mg/kg IV) and adrenaline (3 mcg/kg IV). Heart rate (HR), HR variability (HRV), heart dimensions, and the splenic response of six horses were measured before the sedation, 30 and 60 min later, and...

Background and Aim: Equine herpesvirus-1 infection in horses causes a wide range of manifestations affecting the respiratory tract. The virus can cause serious economic losses through sporadic abortion in pregnant mares, perinatal death, respiratory disease in young foals. This study was designed to prepare inactivated equine herpesvirus-1 (EHV-1) vaccine using both 0.005 M binary ethylenimine (BEI) and 0.0006% formaldehyde (FA) to decrease the use of BEI and provide a good immunological response. The efficacy, safety, and duration of immunity of the prepared inactivated EHV-1 vaccine were evaluated. Materials and Methods: The prepared FA/BEI-inactivated EHV-1 vaccine was adjuvanted with Alhydrogel and then evaluated by inoculation into guinea pigs, followed by comparison with the commercial inactivated EHV-1 vaccine. These two vaccines were evaluated by testing the safety and immunogenicity in horses classified into two groups. Group A was vaccinated with two doses of the prepared ...

Background and Aim: Persistent corpus luteum (PCL) causes anestrus in mares. This study aimed to determine the effect of intrauterine prostaglandin F2α (PGF2α) treatment on PCL of racing mares to restore fertility.

Materials and Methods: Twelve racing mares suspected with PCL were diagnosed using transrectal palpation and confirmed by serum progesterone (P4) concentration measurement. PGF2α was infused intrauterine, followed by serum collection at 24, 48, and 72 h after. Estrous symptoms were monitored, and mating was conducted on day 3 of estrus with an earlier injection of 8.4 μg gonadotropin-releasing hormone twice a day. Transrectal palpation was performed on days 21-30 to observe the corpus luteum. Pregnancy diagnosis was performed rectally on 40-45 days post-mating and confirmed using Doppler ultrasound scanning.

Results: Eleven of the 12 mares had PCL. There was a dramatic reduction in the P4 concentration following PGF2α treatment of mares with PCL. All mares exhibited estrus 2.6±0.55 days post-treatment with a P4 concentration of 0.12±0.12 ng/mL. Rectal palpation and P4 concentration on 21-30 days after estrous onset showed that all mares were ovulating. The evaluation of P4 concentration on days 40-45 post-mating showed that all mares were still in the luteal phase. However, the pregnancy rate was only 54.5% based on rectal palpation and Doppler ultrasound scanning.

Conclusion: Treatment of PCL in racing mares with an intrauterine infusion of PGF2α restored the estrous cycle and induced ovulation and pregnancy.

La insuficiencia cardiaca (IC), es un síndrome clínico causado por una alteración estructural o funcional del corazón, que determina un gasto cardiaco inadecuado para satisfacer las necesidades metabólicas de los tejidos. Cuando existe una disfunción cardiaca, al provocar sobrecarga de trabajo y efectos directos nocivos de las neurohormonas sobre el miocardio, se convierten en

In Switzerland, the prevalence and incidence of equine piroplasma parasite (EPP) infections are unknown. In
order to obtain a first insight into the prevalence, a representative sample of 689 sera of horses from
Switzerland was serologically tested for the presence of antibodies directed against T. equi and B. caballi
using the Indirect Fluorescence Antibody Test (IFAT). A total of 50 (7.3%) horses were seropositive for EPP:
overall, the seroprevalence of T. equi was significantly higher than that of B. caballi (p=0.002). The
seropositivities in indigenous horses (animals bred and raised in Switzerland) and in imported horses were
4.8% (11/230) and 8.5% (39/459), respectively. Unlike in indigenous horses, where no significant difference
in seroprevalences could be observed between the two parasite species, the seroprevalence of T. equi was
significantly higher (pb0.001) than that of B. caballi in imported horses. Horses imported from France, Spain
and Portugal exhibited a significantly higher seroprevalence, and horses imported from Germany a
significantly lower seroprevalence of EPP compared to indigenous horses. There were no associations
between sex, age, weight loss, surgery or blood transfusions with T. equi and B. caballi seroprevalences.
The overall seroprevalence of 7.3% clearly shows that infection with EPP is a threat to the health of the horses
in Switzerland. With the presumed expansion of permissive tick vectors, EPP infections will potentially
increase in importance in the future. Therefore, continuous monitoring is mandatory.

Background and Aim: Equine herpesvirus-1 infection in horses causes a wide range of manifestations affecting the respiratory tract. The virus can cause serious economic losses through sporadic abortion in pregnant mares, perinatal death, respiratory disease in young foals. This study was designed to prepare inactivated equine herpesvirus-1 (EHV-1) vaccine using both 0.005 M binary ethylenimine (BEI) and 0.0006% formaldehyde (FA) to decrease the use of BEI and provide a good immunological response. The efficacy, safety, and duration of immunity of the prepared inactivated EHV-1 vaccine were evaluated. Materials and Methods: The prepared FA/BEI-inactivated EHV-1 vaccine was adjuvanted with Alhydrogel and then evaluated by inoculation into guinea pigs, followed by comparison with the commercial inactivated EHV-1 vaccine. These two vaccines were evaluated by testing the safety and immunogenicity in horses classified into two groups. Group A was vaccinated with two doses of the prepared ...

This research was carried out to isolateHistoplasma capsulatum from respiratory samples of horses in Iraq using genomic detection.A total numbers of one hundred (100) nasal swabs andone hundred (100) blood samples were collected from equestrian clubs in Baghdad, DhiQar, Addiwaniya and Najaf provinces.All samples cultured on sabouraud dextrose agar (SDA) and brain heart infusion agar (BHIA) with chloramphenicol and cycloheximide and incubatedat (25°C and 37°C) for (4 weeks). The samples wereexamined macroscopically depending on shape, texture and color of the fungalgrowth and microscopically by preparing a mount smear with lactophenol cotton blue and examined under (40X). The diagnosisconfirmed by molecular techniques for the detection ofHistoplasma capsulatum by using conventional PCR.So, the isolation ofHistoplasma capsulatumwas(4%)in both conventional examination and molecular detection innasal swabs,but in case of blood samples,the Histoplasma capsulatum isolatedby conventional methods was 3%,whereas the molecular detection appeared as 2%.

Background and Aim: Equine herpesvirus-1 infection in horses causes a wide range of manifestations affecting the respiratory tract. The virus can cause serious economic losses through sporadic abortion in pregnant mares, perinatal death, respiratory disease in young foals. This study was designed to prepare inactivated equine herpesvirus-1 (EHV-1) vaccine using both 0.005 M binary ethylenimine (BEI) and 0.0006% formaldehyde (FA) to decrease the use of BEI and provide a good immunological response. The efficacy, safety, and duration of immunity of the prepared inactivated EHV-1 vaccine were evaluated. Materials and Methods: The prepared FA/BEI-inactivated EHV-1 vaccine was adjuvanted with Alhydrogel and then evaluated by inoculation into guinea pigs, followed by comparison with the commercial inactivated EHV-1 vaccine. These two vaccines were evaluated by testing the safety and immunogenicity in horses classified into two groups. Group A was vaccinated with two doses of the prepared ...