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Summary After starting feeding on a new batch of hay, 29 out of 33 horses showed clinical signs of oral ulcerative and bleeding papules and mucous membrane erythema of the gingiva of the mandible within 2–3 days. The results of the complete blood cell count and biochemistry analysis did not yield significant findings in relation to horses affected by ulcerative stomatitis. Swab analyses of the oral mucosa for vesicular stomatitis virus (VS, Type Indiana and Type New Jersey) were negative in all horses (n = 33). Common windgrass with long awns in the deeper stomal‐gingival ulcerations was confirmed through botanical analysis by botanical identification. The hay batch fed to the affected horses was assessed via botanical analysis, finding 15% common windgrass (Apera spica‐venti). After the removal of the contaminated hay batch, full recovery was seen in all horses within 2–6 weeks depending on the severity of the lesions. The grassland from which the hay was harvested belonged to a semi‐natural landscape restored to increase biodiversity and as a protection zone in case of overflow of the river Rhine. In conclusion, feeding forages harvested from these semi‐natural landscapes may be harmful to the health of horses. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The treatment of equine back pain (EBP) is very challenging and often not very successful. The relatively low efficacy of current treatment regimens for EBP is mainly associated with nonspecific and multifactorial causes of the condition. This has concerned the equine industry, leading equine practitioners and horse owners to seek alternative and traditional cures to treat the condition. One of the alternative therapies is acupuncture, a technique rarely used on horses with back pain. Although acupuncture is still a controversial technique among veterinarians, equine practitioners are now exploring the method to treat disease conditions in their horses. There is no doubt that acupuncture alone or as an adjunct therapy to modern medicine has significantly improved the recovery rate of equine back pain. This review looks at the use of acupuncture in the treatment of EBP. Various available acupuncture techniques and their mechanisms of action are discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Respiratory issues significantly impact horses, affecting performance and their overall health. Factors like weather, stress from racing, and exposure to irritants contribute to upper and lower respiratory tract problems. Nasal breathing and the lengthy nasopharynx of horses predispose them to airborne irritants. Diseases like nasal polyps, ethmoid hematomas, sinusitis, guttural pouch diseases, laryngeal issues, and pneumonia affect horses across ages and breeds, leading to symptoms such as nasal discharge, breathing difficulties, and exercise intolerance. Diagnosis often involves endoscopy, radiography, and cytology. Treatment varies from surgical interventions to environmental modifications, emphasizing early detection for effective management. This review focuses on understanding how the complexity of these respiratory disorders can enable targeted strategies to safeguard the health and performance of horses. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Equine-assisted services (EAS) is a relatively new area of study within higher education requiring the development of a curriculum that best prepares the undergraduate student for the demands of the industry. Further, coursework targeting the specific management challenges for ensuring the welfare of horses utilized within EAS is limited. Therefore, the objective of this study was to apply an industry-based survey assessment utilizing EAS professionals within the United States to document management practices associated with healthcare and pain management challenges in the EAS horse. Suggested curriculum for undergraduate students targeting a career in EAS is given, utilizing data collected from the survey. Participant responses (n = 30) indicated that all of the surveyed facilities cared for more than three geriatric horses within their program, with the majority (60% responding "definitely yes") utilizing regularly functionally lame horses, although the prevalence of lameness was not correlated with number of geriatric horses within a program (0.20, p = 0.22). While lameness is a common healthcare challenge within EAS, gastrointestinal conditions (73%) were one of the other leading health concerns for these facilities. The most common equine pain detection method for EAS facilities was behavior assessment (93%), in which this method was positively correlated with years of horse experience (0.51, p = 0.01). Horse pain was primarily managed through annual alternative therapeutic interventions (76%), daily prescriptions (73%), and nutritional supplements (73%). As such, the curriculum for undergraduate EAS degree programs should cover healthcare practices targeting geriatric horse management and associated health issues such as gastrointestinal conditions and lameness, including early detection and pharmaceutical, nutritional, and alternative therapeutic treatments. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) has become more common among humans and awareness of its prevalence in animals, including horses, has also increased during the past few decades. Equine IBD is problematic as it decreases the performance of horses and causes diarrhea, weight loss, and pain-related behaviors. Apart from high levels of uncertainty in diagnosing IBD, it is stressful for the horse and expensive for the owner as it typically requires transportation to the horse hospital, fasting, endoscopy, and biopsy assessment. Therefore, there is a need for a non-invasive and affordable method to screen for IBD. Fecal microbiota composition has been shown to change in humans and other animals with IBD; therefore, we used fecal samples to study whether equine IBD is also reflected by changes in the composition of gut microbiota. We show that gut microbiota composition was different and that the abundances of certain bacterial groups were significantly increased or decreased in horses with IBD compared to healthy horses. We further used a machine learning model to predict IBD based on the microbiota composition of the fecal samples. The model produced correct predictions with 100% accuracy in our dataset. We conclude that, in the future, studying the microbiota composition of fecal samples could become an accurate, cheap, and non-invasive method in screening for equine IBD. Gastrointestinal disorders are common and debilitating in horses, but their diagnosis is often difficult and invasive. Fecal samples offer a non-invasive alternative to assessing the gastrointestinal health of horses by providing information about the gut microbiota and inflammation. In this study, we used 16S sequencing to compare the fecal bacterial diversity and composition of 27 healthy horses and 49 horses diagnosed with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). We also measured fecal calprotectin concentration, a marker of intestinal inflammation, in healthy horses and horses with IBD. We found that microbiota composition differed between healthy horses and horses with IBD, although less than five percent of the variation in microbiota composition was explained by individual health status and age. Several differentially abundant bacterial taxa associated with IBD, age, or body condition were depleted from the most dominant Firmicutes phylum and enriched with the Bacteroidota phylum. An artificial neural network model predicted the probability of IBD among the test samples with 100% accuracy. Our study is the first to demonstrate the association between gut microbiota composition and chronic forms of IBD in horses and highlights the potential of using fecal samples as a non-invasive source of biomarkers for equine IBD. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The equine industry holds substantial economic importance not only in the USA but worldwide. The occurrence of various infectious bacterial diseases in horses can lead to severe health issues, economic losses, and restrictions on horse movement and trade. Effective management and control of these diseases are therefore crucial for the growth and sustainability of the equine industry. While antibiotics constitute the primary treatment strategy for any bacterial infections in horses, developing resistance to clinically important antibiotics poses significant challenges to equine health and welfare. The adverse effects of antimicrobial overuse and the escalating threat of resistance underscore the critical importance of antimicrobial stewardship within the equine industry. There is limited information on the epidemiology of antimicrobial-resistant bacterial infections in horses. In this comprehensive review, we focus on the history and types of antimicrobials used in horses and provide recommendations for combating drug-resistant bacterial infections in horses. This review also highlights the epidemiology of antimicrobial resistance (AMR) in horses, emphasizing the public health significance and transmission dynamics between horses and other animals within a One Health framework. By fostering responsible practices and innovative control measures, we can better help the equine industry combat the pressing threat of AMR and thus safeguard equine as well as public health. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In point‐of‐care diagnostics, the continuous monitoring of sweat constituents provides a window into individual's physiological state. For species like horses, with abundant sweat glands, sweat composition can serve as an early health indicator. Considering the salience of such metrics in the domain of high‐value animal breeding, a sophisticated wearable sensor patch tailored is introduced for the dynamic assessment of equine sweat, offering insights into pH, potassium ion (K+), and temperature profiles during episodes of heat stress and under normal physiological conditions. The device integrates a laser‐engraved graphene (LEG) sensing electrode array, a non‐invasive iontophoretic module for stimulated sweat secretion, an adaptable signal processing unit, and an embedded wireless communication framework. Profiting from an admirable Truth Table capable of logical evaluation, the integrated system enabled the early and timely assessment for heat stress, with high accuracy, stability, and reproducibility. The sensor patch has been calibrated to align with the unique dermal and physiological contours of equine anatomy, thereby augmenting its applicability in practical settings. This real‐time analysis tool for equine perspiration stands to revolutionize personalized health management approaches for high‐value animals, marking a significant stride in the integration of smart technologies within the agricultural sector. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: Equine asthma is a major disease affecting the health and welfare of horses worldwide. There are many factors in the stable environment that directly lead to the exacerbation of asthma symptoms and indirectly affect the well-being of horses. We conducted a thorough analysis of scientific articles published over the last 20 years on potential environmental factors influencing the development and course of equine asthma. In conclusion, numerous environmental factors have a significant impact on the well-being of horses, and their control helps prevent the occurrence of asthma in horses or alleviate its symptoms. We believe that the information collected in our review will help improve the welfare of horses. Equine asthma is a popular subject of research. Many factors influencing the methods used to improve the welfare of asthmatic horses remain unclear. This study reviews scientific articles published after 2000 to collect the most important information on the terminology, symptoms, and potential environmental factors influencing the development and course of equine asthma. Our work highlights the impact of environmental factors on the severity of equine asthma and why these factors should be controlled to improve treatment outcomes. The present article provides horse owners and veterinarians with valuable information on how to improve the well-being of horses that are at risk of developing asthma symptoms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Rolling is a natural behavior of equids that is beneficial to their well-being. However, more intensive domestic environments offer fewer opportunities for animals to roll, neglecting its importance. We believe that the inclusion of recreational areas for animals, containing substrates and conditions that encourage the occurrence of natural behaviors, is essential to promote their well-being. Therefore, we evaluated the preference of horses (Equus caballus; n = 8) and mules (E. asinus x E. caballus; n = 8) for different rolling substrates (sand, grass, manure), and the influence of this behavior on thermoregulation after exercise. Horses rolled preferentially on grass, whereas mules preferred sand, both of which were cooler substrates when compared to manure. In addition, the temperature of the animals significantly reduced after rolling. Thus, horses and mules must roll for thermoregulation after exercise, choosing cooler and more efficient substrates for heat dissipation. The differences in preferences between mules and horses showed particularities between the equine species and its hybrid, which is important for management that is focused more on the individual animal. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article discusses the history, current situation, and future prospects of deworming programs for horses in the United States. In the past, the development of effective dewormers had a positive impact on equine health, but it also led to increased reports of anthelmintic resistance (AR) in internal parasites. Currently, there is a growing awareness of the problem of AR, and horse owners are seeking more advice from veterinarians on deworming protocols. The future may bring new technologies, such as genomics, gene editing, artificial intelligence, and data analytics, which could lead to the development of new anthelmintic drugs or other control practices for internal parasites. [Extracted from the article]

Introduction: Motor neurons (MNs) within the nucleus ambiguus innervate the skeletal muscles of the larynx, pharynx, and oesophagus. These muscles are activated during vocalisation and swallowing and must be coordinated with several respiratory and other behaviours. Despite many studies evaluating the projections and orientation of MNs within the nucleus ambiguus, there is no quantitative information regarding the dendritic arbours of MNs residing in the compact, and semicompact/loose formations of the nucleus ambiguus. Methods: In female and male Fischer 344 rats, we evaluated MN number using Nissl staining, and MN and non-MN dendritic morphology using Golgi–Cox impregnation Brightfield imaging of transverse Nissl sections (15 μm) were taken to stereologically assess the number of nucleus ambiguus MNs within the compact and semicompact/loose formations. Pseudo-confocal imaging of Golgi-impregnated neurons within the nucleus ambiguus (sectioned transversely at 180 μm) was traced in 3D to determine dendritic arbourisation. Results: We found a greater abundance of MNs within the compact than the semicompact/loose formations. Dendritic lengths, complexity, and convex hull surface areas were greatest in MNs of the semicompact/loose formation, with compact formation MNs being smaller. MNs from both regions were larger than non-MNs reconstructed within the nucleus ambiguus. Conclusion: Adding HBLS to the diet could be a potentially effective strategy to improve horses’ health. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The way horses are trained has implications for equine welfare and training success, yet little is known about the factors that influence horse-owners’ choice of training approach (TA). Limited understanding in area will likely hinder the development and dissemination of evidence-based training advice to owners. Consequently, this study aims to identify demographic and attitudinal factors that influence horse-owner TA selection. A 22-question online survey collected information from 1,593 horse-owners about their demographics, equestrian activities, goals and beliefs. Participants rated how likely they were to use six different horse TAs on a five-point scale. Multinomial regression analysis and Spearman’s correlation coefficients were used to identify factors associated with their likelihood of using each TA. Several factors were associated with reported TA use, including age, gender identity, goals, activities, industry role and whether they had training in animal behavior. Beliefs about equine sentience, cognitive ability and whether science should inform horse training correlated with likelihood of applying aversives. This study provides insight for further research and development of educational strategies to reduce the use of training approaches that may compromise equine welfare. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: The sport of polo poses a variety of health risks to polo horses, including lameness injury, joint disease, back problems, exercise-induced pulmonary hemorrhage, and infectious disease. This analysis shows that polo horses are exposed to an increased risk of injury and disease due to the demands of the sport, with aspects such as ground conditions, training, and genetic factors playing a role. Prevention is the top priority in this growing sport. Both the associations and the players must work continuously to protect the health of horses in polo and minimize injuries. This literature review analyzes the historical development of polo, its organizational structure, the course of the game, as well as the breeding, rearing, and training practices of polo horses. Frequently occurring ailments, such as musculoskeletal injuries, respiratory diseases, and internal illnesses, are highlighted. Lameness is a major problem, with injuries to the superficial digital flexor tendon being the most common cause. Other notable diseases include exercise-induced pulmonary hemorrhage (EIPH), myositis, rhabdomyolysis, and equine infectious anemia (EIA). To ensure the welfare of polo horses, effective prevention and management strategies are crucial. These include proper training, the adaptation of the ground surface, appropriate shoeing, and compliance with animal welfare guidelines and association rules. Collaboration between associations, players, organizers, and veterinarians is crucial. Promoting responsible management practices and raising awareness among stakeholders can help ensure that polo continues to thrive while maintaining high animal welfare standards. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Horses in Great Britain are living into increasingly older age and are often regarded as friends or family members by their owner. The horse is reliant on their owner to meet their needs and this paper discusses how horse owners frame an issue that becomes a matter of veterinary concern within the context of the older horse. Qualitative methods were used to explore the experiences of owners and veterinarians. Data were collected and analysed using a grounded theory approach during the period 2019-2022. Analysis identified that owners undertook an ongoing and iterative process of assessment, monitoring and decision making in relation to the animal and any changes they observed. Matters that became a veterinary concern required the owner to formulate the issue as something that fell within the knowledge domain of the veterinarian. Veterinarians had a medicalised view of older horse health and their perspectives on socially acceptable care were shaped by their understanding of speciesspecific needs, and whether owners were providing appropriately for those needs. The formulation of a matter of veterinary concern was itself shaped by an owner's experiential knowledge of both veterinary matters and their horse. The extent to which owners felt like they and their individual horse mattered during interactions with veterinarians affected whether they adopted veterinary advice and the nature of future veterinary employment. Findings demonstrate how matters of health, disease, and the role of professionalised forms of medical knowledge, are not static but constantly changing and interacting over time. An issue that became a matter of veterinary concern was contextual, and rooted in individual relationships. The significance of veterinarian-owner interactions in shaping future consumption of veterinary health care may be underestimated. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study compares the performance of Transformers with LSTM for the classification of the behavioural time budget in horses based on video data. The behavioural time budget of a horse consists of amount of time of the activities such as feeding, resting, lying, and moving, which are important indicators of welfare and can be a basis of pain detection. Video technology offers a non-invasive and continuous monitoring approach for automated detection of horse behaviours. Computer vision and deep learning methods have been used for automated monitoring of animal behaviours, but accurate behaviour recognition remains a challenge. Previous studies have employed Convolutional LSTM models for behaviour classification, and more recently, Transformer-based models have shown superior performance in various tasks. This study proposes a multi-input, multi-output classification methodology to address the challenges of accurately detecting and classifying horse behaviours. The results demonstrate that the multi-input and multi-output Transformer model achieves the best performance in behaviour classification compared with single input and single output strategy. The proposed methodology provides a basis for detecting changes in behaviour time budgets related to pain and discomfort in horses, which can be valuable for monitoring and treating horse health problems. • Changes in behaviour time budgets has potential to detect health issues in horses. • A comparison of LSTM and Transformer models for equine behaviour classification. • A novel multi-input, multi-output methodology for equine behaviour classification. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Equine-Assisted Services (EAS) involve health services and adaptive recreation that include equine interactions to promote human wellbeing. While research around the human health outcomes of EAS has grown considerably, there has been limited exploration into the impact of such services on a key service provider, the horse. This study evaluated whether there is variation in how EAS horses experience different types of unmounted interactions with humans. To answer this question, we utilized a mixed method, repeated measures experiment in which 56 human participants and 14 horses, working at a 1:1 ratio, completed a series of three interactions common to EAS: a grooming, a leading, and a maze condition. To measure equine affect, we recorded heart rate variability (HRV) continuously, took eye temperature (ET) immediately after each interaction, and recorded horse behavior. A mixed effects model indicated that horses displayed greater sympathetic activation in the grooming condition than the leading via Low Frequency/High Frequency Ratio (LF:HF: p < 0.001; ET: p = 0.003) and maze conditions (LF:HF: p = 0.005; ET: p < 0.001). Horses also showed significantly more stress-associated behaviors, such as elevated head carriage and pawing, in the grooming condition. These results indicate that there is potential for equine stress during a grooming activity; therefore, more research is needed to determine optimal approaches for addressing horse welfare in unmounted EAS activities involving human interaction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Circadian biology's impact on human physical health and its role in disease development and progression is widely recognized. The forefront of circadian rhythm research now focuses on translational applications to clinical medicine, aiming to enhance disease diagnosis, prognosis, and treatment responses. However, the field of circadian medicine has predominantly concentrated on human healthcare, neglecting its potential for transformative applications in veterinary medicine, thereby overlooking opportunities to improve non-human animal health and welfare. This review consists of three main sections. The first section focuses on the translational potential of circadian medicine into current industry practices of agricultural animals, with a particular emphasis on horses, broiler chickens, and laying hens. The second section delves into the potential applications of circadian medicine in small animal veterinary care, primarily focusing on our companion animals, namely dogs and cats. The final section explores emerging frontiers in circadian medicine, encompassing aquaculture, veterinary hospital care, and non-human animal welfare and concludes with the integration of One Health principles. In summary, circadian medicine represents a highly promising field of medicine that holds the potential to significantly enhance the clinical care and overall health of all animals, extending its impact beyond human healthcare. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: Data collected from training sessions has the potential to better understand how well racehorses will perform on race-days. To date, no research has explored whether speed during and heart rate recovery after fast exercise could predict a horse winning a race. This theory was tested by analysing information from fitness trackers worn by 485 racehorses during training sessions in Australia by looking at factors like the horse's speed and heart rate recovery after exercise. The study found that certain factors, like being a colt or a 'stayer', were good indicators of future success on the racetrack. However, heart rate recovery and speed at the start or throughout the final 600 m during training were not as powerful as race predictors. Nevertheless, combining physiological data with other less tangible factors will help professionals identify which horses are more likely to perform at their best in races, aiding decision-making and potentially reducing race-day poor performance. Ultimately, this could lead to more successful outcomes for the horses, trainers and owners. In-training racehorse physiological data can be leveraged to further explore race-day performance prediction. To date, no large retrospective, observational study has analysed whether in-training speed and heart rate recovery can predict racehorse success. Speed (categorised as 'slow' to 'fast' according to the time taken to cover the last 600 m from a virtual finish line) and heart rate recovery (from gallop to 1 min after exercise) of flat racehorses (n = 485) of varying age, sex and type according to distance (e.g., sprinter, miler and stayer) were obtained using a fitness tracker from a single racing yard in Australia. Race-pace training sessions on turf comprised 'fast gallop' (n = 3418 sessions) or 'jumpout' (n = 1419). A posteriori racing information (n = 3810 races) for all 485 racehorses was extracted and combined with training data. Race performance was categorised as win/not-win or podium or not, each analysed by logistic regression. Colts (p < 0.001), stayers (p < 0.001) and being relatively fast over the last 600 m of a benchmark test in training (p < 0.008) were all predictive of race performance. Heart rate recovery after exercise (p = 0.21) and speed recorded at 600 m of a 1 km benchmark test in training (p = 0.94) were not predictive. In-training physiological data analytics used along with subjective experience may help trainers identify promising horses and improve decision-making. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: In the current era, sport horses face the challenge of increasingly rigorous workouts, overtaking, and, at times, certain physiological thresholds, leaving them susceptible to injury. This shift underscores the significance of prioritizing the exercise preparation quality and post-care to proactively mitigate the risk of injuries. Despite these measures, injuries may still occur, thus requiring a nuanced understanding of the most effective therapeutic approaches for various types of lesions. In the dynamic field of equine sports medicine, keeping abreast of the expansive therapeutic options proves challenging, especially when aiming to address injuries comprehensively, restore organ function, and sustain the horse's athletic life. The present endeavor seeks to elucidate the array of available therapies, encompassing both conservative and regenerative methods, for the effective management of musculoskeletal injuries in sport horses. Musculoskeletal injuries such as equine osteoarthritis, osteoarticular defects, tendonitis/desmitis, and muscular disorders are prevalent among sport horses, with a fair prognosis for returning to exercise or previous performance levels. The field of equine medicine has witnessed rapid and fruitful development, resulting in a diverse range of therapeutic options for musculoskeletal problems. Staying abreast of these advancements can be challenging, prompting the need for a comprehensive review of commonly used and recent treatments. The aim is to compile current therapeutic options for managing these injuries, spanning from simple to complex physiotherapy techniques, conservative treatments including steroidal and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, hyaluronic acid, polysulfated glycosaminoglycans, pentosan polysulfate, and polyacrylamides, to promising regenerative therapies such as hemoderivatives and stem cell-based therapies. Each therapeutic modality is scrutinized for its benefits, limitations, and potential synergistic actions to facilitate their most effective application for the intended healing/regeneration of the injured tissue/organ and subsequent patient recovery. While stem cell-based therapies have emerged as particularly promising for equine musculoskeletal injuries, a multidisciplinary approach is underscored throughout the discussion, emphasizing the importance of considering various therapeutic modalities in tandem. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Studies on equine air transport practices and consequences are scarce. This prospective study aimed to describe horse and air journey details and practices, document how horse behavior and health changed during the air transport phases, quantify the occurrence of welfare issues, and identify possible associations between horse and journey details, air transport practices, and welfare issues. Results: Data were collected from before departure to five days after arrival on 118/597 horses traveling on 32 commercial air journeys on different routes, varying in duration and conditions. Most horses were middle-aged warmblood females, 26% of which were pregnant, and being moved by air for sales. Before flying, most were quarantined (median: 18; IQR: 9–53 days), and their fitness for travel was certified by veterinarians. At the departure airports, external temperatures varied from − 6 °C to 33 °C, and horses were loaded by experienced flight grooms (median: 35; IQR: 15–40 years) into jet stalls (three-horse: 87%, two-horse: 13%). During the flights, horses were regularly watered (water intake median: 14 L) and fed ad libitum (feed consumption median: 8 kg). At the arrival airport, horses were unloaded from the jet stalls, and external temperatures ranged from − 5 °C to 32 °C. Then, all horses were transported to arrival quarantine by road. Air transport phases affected horses' health status and behavior; increased heart and respiratory rates and behaviors, such as pawing, head tossing, and vocalization, were mainly identified at departure and arrival. Horse interaction, nasal discharge, increased capillary refill time (CRT), and abnormal demeanor were observed more often one hour before landing while resting and normal capillary refill time were more often displayed five days after arrival (all P < 0.01). One hour before landing, horses with bad temperament and horses of unknown temperament were more likely to develop nasal discharge when transported in winter and autumn (P < 0.001). The likelihood of an increased CRT was associated with shorter flights in horses of unknown travel experience (P < 0.001). Ten horses were injured, and 11 developed pleuropneumonias (i.e., shipping fever). Conclusions: Air transport is a complex procedure with several different phases affecting horse health and behavior. Therefore, experienced staff should carefully manage each horse before, during, and after air journeys to minimize welfare hazards. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BackgroundLimited knowledge exists on recognition and treatment of equine abdominal pain in low- and middle-income countries. This study aimed at finding indicators for recognizing abdominal pain, evaluating responses to clinical and behavioral changes, and assessing the impact of timely referral on colic outcomes in a suburban region of Senegal. The final goal was to identify factors that may be leveraged to improve the outcome of horses presented for abdominal pain in Senegal.Study designRetrospective, observational cohort study.MethodsData from 26 foals and 40 adult horses referred for acute abdomen between 2013 and 2014 and the first semester of 2023 were reviewed. Signs of abdominal pain were grouped into behavioral, posture modification and animal interactions with the environment. Time to referral was defined as the time between the recognition of abdominal pain and referral. The association of time to referral and the outcome was calculated for each subpopulation and compared using logistic regression analysis as appropriate.ResultsA significant proportion of owners (47%) and veterinarians (77.8%) relied on behavioral changes to detect abdominal pain in foals. Most owners referred foals within 24 h, while veterinarians referred within 12 h. Mortality in foals exceeded 50% when referral was delayed by 12 h or more. In adult horses, groomers often were the first noticing behavioral changes (79%), and they referred the horse within three hours, whereas owners typically delayed referral for 24 h or longer, leading to increased hospitalization expenses.LimitationsThe study considered a limited cohort in an suburban area of Senegal. Sourcing complete data was challenging. Additionally, accurately assessing owner experience was difficult due to the participant group's heterogeneity. Absence of a reliable system to measure daily horse-owner interaction time and logistical challenges in the abdominal pain symptom alert chain were also limiting factors.ConclusionsEarly detection is critical for positive colic outcomes in both foals and adult horses. Therefore, raising awareness and providing training to horse owners for prompt recognition of symptoms and referral is essential. This proactive approach aims to improve overall outcomes and reduce the financial burden of equine hospitalization in Senegal.

Abstract Cyathostomins are the largest group of parasites in horses that can be controlled by ivermectin (IVM). This study aimed to run a four-dose titration trial of IVM in 28 naturally infected Thoroughbred yearlings. The local Strongyle population had been recorded to be resistant to IVM (200 µg/kg). The parasite fecal egg count (FEC) was performed to investigate the egg reappearance period (ERP) of two and five weeks (w2pt and w5pt) after IVM treatment. FEC was > 1000 on day zero for all groups. Although 100% FEC reduction was reported at w2pt for all concentrations, the FEC at w5pt revealed < 83% efficacy. This study reports the reduction of ERP using the label dose as well as 300, and 400 µg/kg (double dose) of IVM. The protocol allowed IVM to significantly suppress FEC w2pt although not eliminating adult worms, failing to guarantee an extension of its protection period over 8 weeks. Moreover, the FEC at w5pt possibly means the infection was not cleared, and worms reestablished egg laying. We raised the possibility of withdrawing IVM of control programs when the drug has less than 80% FEC reduction at w5pt.

Summary: Skin diseases are an important health problem in horses, and the skin is the most common location for tumours. Equine sarcoids, melanomas and squamous cell carcinomas make up over 95% of cutaneous tumours, but information about the effective treatment of these common forms of skin cancer is limited. In the absence of reliable therapies for advanced cases, cancer screening, reliable diagnostics and early treatment become even more important. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: Increased periods of drought and the resulting shortage of forage necessitate the development of new strategies to find forage alternatives for equine nutrition. Alfalfa (Medicago sativa) is a heat-tolerant and high-yielding plant that provides high levels of protein and minerals, such as calcium (Ca) and magnesium (Mg). Alfalfa hay (AH) is an adequate forage alternative to meadow hay that seems to positively impact the fermentation profile in the large intestine in horses. However, little is known about feeding wrapped alfalfa as an alternative forage source in equine diets. Furthermore, its preservation in the form of haylage minimises leaf losses compared with that of alfalfa hay. The aim of this study was to examine the nutrient composition and feed hygiene of alfalfa as well as investigate the feed intake, blood, urine and faecal parameters of horses fed alfalfa haylage (AS) compared with AH and meadow hay (MH). Voluntary feed intake, nutrient values and faecal quality support AS as a suitable forage source in equids. In addition, the intake of wrapped forage provides a dust-free feed, which may be beneficial for horses suffering from equine asthma. Furthermore, its preservation in the form of haylage minimises leaf losses compared with that of alfalfa hay. The aim of this study was to examine the nutrient composition and feed hygiene of alfalfa as well as investigate the feed intake, blood, urine and faecal parameters of horses fed alfalfa haylage (AS) compared with alfalfa hay (AH) and meadow hay (MH). A total of 11 geldings were fed ad libitum (2.1% dry matter (DM) of body weight (BW)) with alfalfa haylage, alfalfa hay and meadow hay (MH) in a Latin square design. On days 0 and 21 of the feeding period, blood samples were analysed for kidney and liver parameters. Faecal samples were analysed for pH, DM and short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs). Spontaneous urine was collected during the feeding period to analyse selected parameters. Forage was analysed in terms of feed hygiene and crude nutrients. In several feed samples of AS, AH and MH, the microbial reference ranges were exceeded for product-typical and spoilage-indicating bacteria and fungi. Crude nutrient analyses revealed a median crude protein content of 139 (138/142) g/kg DM for AS, which was similar to that in AH (127–135 g/kg DM) and substantially higher than in MH (79.1–87.7 g/kg DM). The calcium level in AS (11.3 g/kg DM) was significantly higher than that in MH (4.00–4.95 g/kg DM) but not compared with that in AH (9.80–10.4 g/kg DM). All blood parameters were within the reference ranges. Fractional excretion (FE)Ca for AS-fed horses ranged from 8.13 to 22.0%; the FECa for AH-fed horses ranged from 6.48 to 24.8%; the FECa for MH-fed horses ranged from 6.69 to 53.2%. No significant differences were found in faecal pH or SCFA content in AS-fed horses compared with AH-fed and MH-fed horses. We concluded that alfalfa haylage provides an alternative forage for equine nutrition. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: During transportation many horses develop post‐transportation infection, which can be life‐threatening and end their sport career. Preventing mucus accumulation and inflammation during transportation is vital, emphasizing the need for effective strategies to enhance overall horse health welfare. Objectives: Assess the impact of N‐acetylcysteine (NAC) on mucus accumulation and inflammation in horses subjected to 18 hours of head confinement. Animals: Six healthy crossbred horses, 5.3 ± 2.1 years of age and weighing 387 ± 30 kg. Methods: Prospective placebo‐controlled cross‐over design study. The horses' heads were restrained in their stalls for a period of 18 hours. They were studied under 4 conditions: Not confined (NC): before head confinement, placebo (P), and confined head (CH): 18 hours of head confinement without treatment, and N‐Acetylcysteine (NAC): 18 hours of head confinement treated with NAC before confinement (15 mg/kg/day NAC PO for 3 days). Bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) was performed in each condition. Mucus accumulation along the trachea was evaluated by endoscopy. Results: Endoscopic scores were significantly different between CH and other conditions, whereas no significant differences were found among NC, P, and NAC. The BAL cell count (34 291 ± 2624 cells/μL), neutrophil and lymphocyte count (18 601 ± 3193 cells/μL and 3337.4 ± 593 cells/μL, respectively) in CH were significantly higher compared to NAC. Neutrophil percentage was significantly higher in CH (53.8 ± 8%) compared to horses that received NAC (20.08 ± 8%). Conversely, in comparison to NAC (66.33 ± 9%), the percentage of macrophages was significantly lower in CH (35.7 ± 10%). Conclusions: N‐acetylcysteine was found to significantly decrease mucus accumulation and inflammatory cell counts in horses with head confinement. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: Jumps racing is a form of Thoroughbred horse racing that involves hurdles and steeples and typically longer distances and heavier weights compared with flat racing, which does not incorporate obstacles. The continuation of jumps racing remains contentious due to the higher risk of fatalities, falls and injuries for horses, compared with flat racing. In Australia, jumps racing is carried out only in the state of Victoria after a legislated ban on jumps racing in South Australia in 2022. Jumps races account for only 1.8% of Thoroughbred horse races in Victoria. This study compared the incidence of fatalities, falls and injuries in horses participating in hurdle and steeplechase races with those participating in flat races at the same race meets, for all jumps races in the 2022 and 2023 Thoroughbred horse jumps racing seasons in Victoria, Australia. Overall, horse fatalities, falls and injuries occurred at higher rates in jumps races compared with flat races during the study period. Jumps racing is a form of Thoroughbred horse racing that involves hurdles and steeples and typically longer distances, and heavier weights compared with flat racing, which does not incorporate obstacles. In Australia, jumps racing is carried out only in Victoria, one of eight states and territories. The continuation of jumps racing is contentious due to the higher risk of fatalities, falls and injuries for horses, compared with flat racing. While measures have been introduced by the industry to improve the safety of riders and horses, the rates of fatalities, falls and injuries in horses participating in jumps races have not been collectively reported in Australia since the 2012 to 2014 race seasons. Although information on individual horse fatalities, falls and injuries is published by Racing Victoria in Stewards' Reports, the data are not aggregated, and so cannot readily be used to assess trends or evaluate the efficacy of safety measures introduced by the industry. The aim of this study was to determine the fatality, fall and injury rates for horses participating in hurdle and steeplechase races in Victoria in the 2022 and 2023 Thoroughbred horse jumps racing seasons compared with horses participating in flat races at the same race meets. Data on horse fatalities, falls and injuries were extracted from the published Racing Victoria race results and Stewards' Reports for the jumps races (n = 150) and corresponding flat races (n = 157) held at the 38 jumps race meets in Victoria in 2022 and 2023. Overall, horse fatalities, falls and injuries occurred at higher rates in jumps races compared with flat races during the study period. The rate of horse fatalities in jumps races was 3.3 per 1000 starts, with no fatalities in flat races. The rate of horse falls in hurdle races was 24 per 1000 starts and 41.6 per 1000 starts in steeplechase races, comparable with rates previously reported in the 2012 to 2014 seasons. There were no falls in flat races. Horse injuries occurred at a rate of 68.9 per 1000 starts in jumps races compared with 18.8 per 1000 starts in flat races. In hurdle and steeplechase races, veterinary clearance being required following horse injury was 5.4 times (OR 5.4, 95% CI 2.8–10.2) and 7.2 times (OR 7.2, 95% CI 3.3–15.6) more likely, respectively, compared with flat races. The risk of trauma was 4 times more likely in hurdle and steeplechase races (OR 4.8, 95% CI 1.7–13.3 and OR 4.1, 95% CI 1.2–13.4, respectively) and the risk of lameness was increased by 2.5 times in hurdles (OR 2.5, 95% CI 1.2–5.2) and 5.1 times in steeplechase races (OR 5.1, 95% CI 2.3–11.5), compared with flat races. These findings support concerns about the welfare of horses involved in jumps racing and of the need for further safety measures to reduce these risks. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: Equine-assisted therapies are becoming increasingly popular for addressing physical and psychological disabilities in clients. The role of the horse's welfare in equine-assisted service receives increasing attention in research. Recent research has shown that horses are able to perceive human emotions and respond to human stress responses. However, no research has yet looked at the other side of the coin—whether and how humans perceive and react to equine stress levels during equine-assisted services. In our study, healthy participants interacted once with a stressed horse and once with a relaxed horse and we asked them before and after the interactions about their mood and their current anxiety level. We also assessed participants' and horses' heart rates. The results of our study showed that the stressed horses were stressed during and after the stress manipulation. Participants reported better mood and less anxiety after the interaction with both the previously stressed and the relaxed horse. Thus, our data suggest that humans cannot intuitively recognize the emotional states of horses. Practical implications for equine-assisted services and other equestrian activities are discussed. Equine-assisted therapies are becoming increasingly popular for addressing physical and psychological disabilities in clients. The role of the horse's welfare in equine-assisted service receives increasing attention in research. Several studies have shown that horses are able to perceive human emotions and respond to human stress responses. However, no research has yet looked at the other side of the coin—whether and how humans perceive and react to equine stress levels during equine-assisted services. To fill this gap in the research, we employed a within-subjects design, in which horse-naïve participants had a standardized interaction with both an experimentally stressed horse and an experimentally relaxed horse. We assessed physiological indicators of stress (heart rate, heart rate variability, and salivary cortisol) in participants and horses, as well as psychological indicators of stress (state anxiety and positive and negative affect) in participants. Although our stress and relaxation manipulations were successful (indicated by horses' physiological indicators of stress), we did not find any difference in the participants' physiological or psychological indicators of stress between the interaction with a stressed and the interaction with a relaxed horse. Together with results from previous studies, this suggests that humans cannot intuitively recognize the (physiological) stress level of horses, which has important implications for effective communication and bonding between humans and horses and for the safety of equine activities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) is a diagnostic method for the assessment of the lower respiratory airway health status in horses. Differential cell count and sometimes also total nucleated cell count (TNCC) are routinely measured by time-consuming manual methods, while faster automated methods exist. The aims of this study were to compare: 1) the Sysmex XN-V body fluid (BF) mode with the manual techniques for TNCC and two-part differential into mononuclear and polymorphonuclear cells; 2) the Olympus VS200 slide scanner and software generated deep-learning-based algorithm with manual techniques for four-part differential cell count into alveolar macrophages, lymphocytes, neutrophils, and mast cells. The methods were compared in 69 clinical BAL samples. Results: Incorrect gating by the Sysmex BF mode was observed on many scattergrams, therefore all samples were reanalyzed with manually set gates. For the TNCC, a proportional and systematic bias with a correlation of r = 0.79 was seen when comparing the Sysmex BF mode with manual methods. For the two-part differential count, a mild constant and proportional bias and a very small mean difference with moderate limits of agreement with a correlation of r = 0.84 and 0.83 were seen when comparing the Sysmex BF mode with manual methods. The Sysmex BF mode classified significantly more samples as abnormal based on the TNCC and the two-part differential compared to the manual method. When comparing the Olympus VS200 deep-learning-based algorithm with manual methods for the four-part differential cell count, a very small bias in the regression analysis and a very small mean difference in the difference plot, as well as a correlation of r = 0.85 to 0.92 were observed for all four cell categories. The Olympus VS200 deep-learning-based algorithm also showed better precision than manual methods for the four-part differential cell count, especially with an increasing number of analyzed cells. Conclusions: The Sysmex XN-V BF mode can be used for TNCC and two-part differential count measurements after reanalyzing the samples with manually set gates. The Olympus VS200 deep-learning-based algorithm correlates well with the manual methods, while showing better precision and can be used for a four-part differential cell count. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

OBJECTIVE To describe left recurrent laryngeal neurectomy (LRLn) performed under standing sedation and evaluate the effect of LRLn on upper respiratory tract function using a high-speed treadmill test (HST). We hypothesized that (1) unilateral LRLn could be performed in standing horses, resulting in ipsilateral arytenoid cartilage collapse (ACC); and (2) HST after LRLn would be associated with alterations in upper respiratory function consistent with dynamic ACC. ANIMALS 6 Thoroughbred horses. METHODS The horses were trained and underwent a baseline HST up to 14 m/s at 5% incline until fatigue. Evaluation included; airflow, pharyngeal and tracheal pressures, and dynamic upper respiratory tract endoscopy. Trans-laryngeal impedance (TLI) and left-to-right quotient angle ratio (LRQ) were calculated after testing. The following day, standing LRLn was performed in the mid-cervical region. A HST was repeated within 4 days after surgery. RESULTS Standing LRLn was performed without complication resulting in Havemayer grade 4 ACC at rest (complete paralysis) and Rakestraw grade C or D ACC (collapse up to or beyond rima glottis midline) during exercise. Increasing treadmill speed from 11 to 14 m/s increased TLI (P < .001) and reduced LRQ (P < .001). Neurectomy resulted in an increase in TLI (P = .021) and a reduction in LRQ (P < .001). CLINICAL RELEVANCE Standing LRLn induces laryngeal hemiplegia that can be evaluated using a HST closely after neurectomy. Standing LRLn may be useful for future prospective evaluations of surgical interventions for laryngeal hemiplegia. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: The understanding of coat color genetics in the domestic horse has advanced largely in the last few years. Specifically, many alleles influencing equine white spotting have been described in the last few decades. White spotting phenotypes can range from small white facial spots to an entirely white horse. Although white markings may be the most obvious phenotype, many white-causing alleles also cause adverse health defects, including sterility, deafness, and blindness. Many white spotting alleles are considered embryonic lethal in the homozygous state, causing obstacles in the breeding process. This review aims to concisely summarize recent research related to the genetics of equine white spotting phenotypes. Traits such as shape, size, and color often influence the economic and sentimental value of a horse. Around the world, horses are bred and prized for the colors and markings that make their unique coat patterns stand out from the crowd. The underlying genetic mechanisms determining the color of a horse's coat can vary greatly in their complexity. For example, only two genetic markers are used to determine a horse's base coat color, whereas over 50 genetic variations have been discovered to cause white patterning in horses. Some of these white-causing mutations are benign and beautiful, while others have a notable impact on horse health. Negative effects range from slightly more innocuous defects, like deafness, to more pernicious defects, such as the lethal developmental defect incurred when a horse inherits two copies of the Lethal White Overo allele. In this review, we explore, in detail, the etiology of white spotting and its overall effect on the domestic horse to Spot the Pattern of these beautiful (and sometimes dangerous) white mutations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: Horses are being increasingly incorporated into health and wellbeing treatments and interventions. These Equine-Assisted Services (EASs) vary widely in both theoretical and practical applications. However, until now, the experiences and perspectives of the practitioners of these services have received little attention. To address this gap in knowledge, EAS practitioners were asked to complete a survey exploring the service they provide, practice patterns, background education, perceived knowledge, challenges faced and issues moving forwards. Practitioners' backgrounds were found to have a significant influence on both the type of EAS provided and respondents' perceived knowledge. Most practitioners received training specific to the service they provided, with block release being a common trend. Just under half the sample had received under 20 days of training. Horse-specific training was relatively uncommon. Practitioners reported client and horse welfare, financial sustainability and raising awareness as the most important challenges facing their service. This study highlights the diversity within the field of EAS and the challenges faced by practitioners, as well as possible opportunities for growth. More progress is needed to support practitioners in order to grow, professionalise and legitimise these services. Equine-Assisted Services (EASs) are commonplace in today's society, but vary widely in both theoretical and practical applications. Until now, practitioners' experiences and perspectives in relation to these services have received little attention. To address this, a purpose-designed online questionnaire was distributed to EAS practitioners, exploring issues relating to the nature of the service provided, practice patterns, practitioner education, perceived knowledge, challenges faced and the future direction of these services. An analysis revealed a significant association between practitioners' backgrounds and the nature of the service offered, as well as perceived knowledge. Median EAS training received to first practice was 20 days of block release over a year; however, nearly half of the sample (42.4%) reported less training than this. Equine-specific training was more limited, with 41.5% of practitioners having no horse-relevant qualifications. The most important challenges reported by practitioners involved client and equine welfare, financial sustainability and raising awareness of EAS. This research highlights the diverse nature of EAS and also raises important challenges and possible opportunities for development. Findings suggest that more progress is needed to professionalise and legitimise the area to support and help practitioners provide the best service for all concerned. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The plant's proclivity to grow close to the water and its profusion of thorns are what give it the name "Sea buckthorn." It was discovered that feeding the leaves of this plant to horses enhanced their health and made their hair shine, leading to the genus name Hippophae, which in Latin means "Shining Horse." It is a powerful source of several bioactive substances, particularly polyphenols and carotenoids that have beneficial effects on the human body. We aim to evaluate the in vitro antioxidant potential of Sea buckthorn (Hippophae rhamnoides) and its effect on protecting DNA from damage. Total phenolic content in different extracts of H. rhamnoides was determined by using Folin–Ciocalteu method. The antioxidant activity was determined by DPPH radical scavenging method. Reducing power was estimated by Fe3+- Fe2+ transformation method. Hydroxyl and superoxide radical scavenging activities were also determined besides measuring the effect of different extracts on Fenton's reaction induced DNA damage of calf thymus DNA. Results indicate that methanolic extract of H. rhamnoides was having higher phenolic content, higher free radical scavenging activity and stronger reducing capacity as compared to aqueous and ethyl acetate extract. Also, it was found to be a better scavenger of superoxide and hydroxyl radicals and more potent in preventing DNA damage as compared to aqueous and ethyl acetate extract. The neutralization or destruction of free radicals by antioxidant activity of methanolic extract of H. rhamnoides makes it a promising therapeutic candidate for prevention and/or treatment of oxidative stress-related diseases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

As an overall, horse welfare refers to the well-being and the quality of life of horses. This includes ensuring that horses are provided with proper nutrition, stable, veterinary care, training, and social intra and inter specific interaction. It involves protecting horses from harm, abuse, neglect, and ensuring their physical and emotional needs are met. Horse welfare is essential for promoting health, happiness, and longevity of horses, as well as fostering positive relationships between humans and horses. Welfare in the equestrian activities mirroring the ethical and responsible treatment of horses during mainly in all aspects of training activities. This includes ensuring that horses are provided with proper equipment that fits well and does not cause discomfort or injury, using appropriate training methods that prioritize the horse's physical and mental well-being, and monitoring the horse's health and fitness levels to prevent overexertion or injury. Sport horse welfare involves creating a positive and respectful relationship between the rider and the horse, as well as promoting a safe and supportive environment for both the horse and the rider. Prioritizing welfare in equestrians is essential for the health, happiness, and longevity of the horse, as well as for the enjoyment and safety of the rider. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Dental disease is a common condition affecting horses. Its prevalence and characteristics among most of the common breeds of horses and donkeys have been investigated and described in the literature, but information about the prevalence and etiology of dental disease of miniature horses is sparse. Methods: To determine the prevalence and characteristics of dental disease of miniature horses, we performed oral and dental radiographic examinations on 100 miniature horses. The findings of these examinations were analyzed to determine the prevalence of dental disease and its correlation to age, sex, weight, body condition score, height at the withers, head length and head width. Older horses had a higher prevalence of dental disease, diastemata and crown elongations. Results: The most common dental diseases detected in this population were crown elongation, oral mucosal ulceration, diastemata, class 1 malocclusion and hypodontia. Horses with a high body condition score had an increased likelihood of having a class 1 malocclusion. Horses with wider heads had a higher prevalence of dental disease and class 1 malocclusions. Conclusion: Frequent oral examinations, starting at an early age, should be prioritized as a part of miniature horse preventive health care to decrease morbidity and slow progression of dental disease. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The purpose of this study was to assess the stress responses associated with vaquejada simulating tests (VSTs). Ten clinically healthy 8.9 ± 4.3-year-old Quarter horses, weighing 441.3 ± 25.0 kg, performed two VSTs five days apart. In the first VST (M1), animals ran three times with a 5-min rest between races; and in the second (M2), they ran with a 15-min rest between races. Horses were examined before (T0) and immediately after the third run (T1) and at 4 h (T2) of recovery. Stress biomarkers included heart rate (HR), heart rate variability (HRV), cortisol, and white blood cell count. All variables were analyzed by ANOVA and Tukey tests, considering p < 0.05. A significant reduction in cortisol was observed for pull (p = 0.0463) and helper (p = 0.0349) horses when they had a 15-min rest between races. The rMSSD and mean R-R values for helper horses were also significantly lower in M2. In conclusion, the 15-min rest interval proved to be better than the 5-min period for both categories of equine athletes used in vaquejada mainly for helper horses. A longer rest time between races allowed the organic recovery necessary for these animals to impose a greater applied physical effort load, which is a fact that guarantees good performance and well-being. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]