Training

New “Milepet” (Molecular Imaging of Limbs in Equids) equine PET scanner provides objective data for veterinarians to make informed decisions on the future of an injured horse, be it more time off, a different treatment, a return to work, or retirement.

Study in Scandinavia fitted wireless inertial sensors to 103 trotters.

“Horses deserve to be transported in as humane a manner as possible,” the Animal Welfare Institute says.

Performed optimally, water treadmill exercise has many potential benefits when integrated into a training or rehabilitation programme.

The number of cases of low‐grade lameness, other gait abnormalities and ill-fitting saddles found in the study were high, the researchers said.

Equitation scientist talks about the use of nosebands and tongue-ties in horse sport, and the equestrian world’s social licence to operate.

Horse owners in the northern hemisphere are being urged to review basic strategies that will help their horses avoid heat stress, as summer begins to cook up.

Research into improved healing of tendon injuries leads team to the innovative use of shock wave therapy on stem cells before they’re injected into horses.

Canadian researchers are investigating novel new methods to potentially repair tissue rather than just suppressing the signs of joint disease.

“Unfortunately, many horse owners think their horse is in harder work than it actually is, warranting increased rations but hard work would actually be an advanced eventer or racehorse in full work.”

Findings add further weight to the possible existence of a so-called gut-brain axis in horses.

“Measuring salivary chromogranin A concentrations in donkeys may represent a promising tool for obtaining information about their stress response.”

Hemp as horse bedding is said to have many desirable qualities.

The break-over phase starts after the loading phase when the horse lifts its heel, causing a rotational movement around the toe, and ends with hoof lifting off.

Dr Hilary Clayton shares some tips and insights into the best ways of bringing our equine athletes back into work.

“We would, however, warn owners to make sure their pony’s teeth are in good shape before introducing straw as it does take more chewing – this will also reduce the risk of colic.”

Information will ultimately help educate NZ horse owners on what physical and rehabilitative therapies are used, who provides them, and how they contribute to health and welfare.

Owners are worrying about the risks of weight gain and laminitis under Covid-19 restrictions.