http://www.horsehealthmagazine.co.uk/ The UK's leading Equine Health and Well-being magazine for the Professional. en-uk Copyright Wharncliffe Publishing Limited 2008 2008-08-05 10:33:15 2008-08-05 10:33:15 http://www.horsehealthmagazine.co.uk/ http://www.horsehealthmagazine.co.uk/images/rsslogo.gif http://www.horsehealthmagazine.co.uk/?page=news&monthyear=2008-08 LANDOWNERS in Jersey are being asked by the government to take action to control ragwort. The Environment Department has said that the weed is spreading rapidly because of the current weather conditions and is becoming a serious threat to the island's livestock. The island's farmers have been warned that the plant is very difficult to remove once it has become established, producing seeds that can stay dormant in the soil for up to 20 years. Deputy Anne Pryke, assistant minister of planning and environment said: 'As in previous years we would advise that preventing the spread of this injurious weed is important for the wellbeing of the island's grazing animals, and landowners and occupiers should take all measures to assist in its control.' Horse Health Magazine - editorial@wharncliffepublishing.co.uk 2008-08-05 10:33:15 http://www.horsehealthmagazine.co.uk/?page=news&monthyear=2008-08 HAMPSHIRE Fire and Rescue Service have issued a horsebox safety warning following a spate of serious incidents in the county.  Recently firefighters have rescued a 15 year old horse stuck by its off hind in a horsebox, a New Forest Pony that put its leg through the floor of a trailer and an Irish Sport Horse that had punched its way through two partitions.  A Fresian gelding was also treated after launching itself over the partition of a lorry, falling out through the back door and on to the tarmac. Watch manger Jim Green said: 'Any animal trapped in a confined space presents a highly dangerous, unpredictable situation." Horse Health Magazine - editorial@wharncliffepublishing.co.uk 2008-08-05 10:32:39 http://www.horsehealthmagazine.co.uk/?page=news&monthyear=2008-07 By Louise Cordell INTERNATIONAL jumping returned to the Royal Windsor Horse Show this year after a decade long absence. 14 senior British riders went up against competitors from eight countries, Ireland, France, Spain, Russia, Sweden, Jordan, Argentina and Portugal. The event action included the Royal Windsor Grand Prix being won by Michael Whitaker, Britain's leading world ranked rider who partnered Amai at the horse's first three star FEI Grand Prix. William Funnell took second place with Cortaflex Billy Birr with Duncan Inglis and Sunkist in third. Michael Whitaker said: 'It has been a great show. The organisation has been good and the footing is superb. It is good to have another international show in this country.' Horse Health Magazine - editorial@wharncliffepublishing.co.uk 2008-07-01 14:22:43 http://www.horsehealthmagazine.co.uk/?page=news&monthyear=2008-07 By Louise Cordell A SCOTTISH workshop has offered hope that equine strangles could soon become a disease of the past. A two day conference, organised by the BHS and the Animal Health Trust, brought together scientists and vets from all over the world to present their latest research results on the most commonly diagnosed infectious equine disease. Their discussions concentrated on advances made possible through the completion of the Streptococcus equi and Streptococcus zooepidemicus genome sequencing projects and their implications in Strangles prevention. On the second day the delegates focussed on the clinical problem and considered the best diagnostic and preventive techniques that can be adopted during an outbreak. Horse Health Magazine - editorial@wharncliffepublishing.co.uk 2008-07-01 14:21:04 http://www.horsehealthmagazine.co.uk/?page=news&monthyear=2008-06 THE first reported case of equine grass sickness (EGS) occurred just over 100 years ago, and horses of all breeds and ages are still dying on a regular basis from this disease, with the highest incidence here in the UK. Even with all the veterinary expertise at our disposal, there is still no clear way of preventing or even treating the disease successfully. EGS is a disease which affects parts of the nervous system that control involuntary functions such as digestion, salivation and heart-rate and is fatal in over 90 per cent of cases. However, the real problem with investigating new strategies for tackling EGS is not a lack of technical expertise, but a lack of basic knowledge about the disease; what are the true numbers of cases occurring each year, and where is most at risk? Horse Health Magazine - editorial@wharncliffepublishing.co.uk 2008-06-03 09:31:29 http://www.horsehealthmagazine.co.uk/?page=news&monthyear=2008-06 WORLD Horse Welfare has published a charity roadmap outlining its ambitions and activities for the next decade. The recently renamed organisation, previously The International League for the Protection of Horses, is continuing to focus on three main areas of activity, UK Welfare, Campaigns and International Training. Chief executive, Roly Owers, said: 'We are entering a new chapter in the proud history of our charity. 'The roadmap sets the framework for a fresh, more focused approach to our work, so that we can have an even greater impact on horse welfare, both in the UK and overseas." Horse Health Magazine - editorial@wharncliffepublishing.co.uk 2008-06-03 09:31:03 http://www.horsehealthmagazine.co.uk/?page=news&monthyear=2008-05 IN the lead up to Badminton 2008, a major investment in turf management and ground conditions has been made for the first time in more than 50 years. The four mile cross country track in the Duke of Beaufort's Gloucestershire park has not been re-evaluated since the event started in 1949. Now event director Hugh Thomas has looked at what the constantly evolving sport will require for the 21st century. Over the last three years the emphasis has shifted from being a endurance test including roads, tracks and steeplechase, to a shorter but more technical test. Horse Health Magazine - editorial@wharncliffepublishing.co.uk 2008-05-02 09:59:42 http://www.horsehealthmagazine.co.uk/?page=news&monthyear=2008-05 KNOWHERE raced to success at Cheltenham's Gold Cup Trial following pioneering stem cell treatment for a serious tendon injury. Despite a good start to his racing career as a four year old, the bay suffered injuries to both forelimb superficial digital flexor tendons in late 2004. The left fore showed low grade tendonitis while the right fore had a significant percentage of fibre rupture. As a promising racing prospect, Knowhere's owners wanted to give him the best possible chance of recovery, so they opted for stem cell therapy. Bone marrow samples were collected from Knowhere's sternum and processed to generate millions of stem cells. Horse Health Magazine - editorial@wharncliffepublishing.co.uk 2008-05-02 09:56:58 http://www.horsehealthmagazine.co.uk/?page=news&monthyear=2008-04 THE University of Liverpool has announced a new addition to its cutting edge equine hospital. A standing equine MRI Scanner has joined other specialist diagnostic tools which, together with its experienced team makes the Philip Leverhulme hospital one of the busiest equine referral centres in the UK. Dr Peter Milner, university veterinary surgeon, said: 'We see MRI as a great benefit in investigation of lameness in horses and has already helped in unravelling difficult and challenging orthopaedic cases. 'The MRI unit will also provide us with a valuable tool for musculoskeletal research, a recognised strength within the equine department at Leahurst, successfully headed by Professor Peter Clegg.' It is hoped that the scanner will assist the hospital in diagnosing cases of lameness more reliably than ever before. MRI technology is currently revolutionising the treatment of lameness with its ability to reveal details of internal structures beyond the scope of x-rays and ultrasound, offering the most comprehensive and accurate imaging available for foot and limb tissue. Horse Health Magazine - editorial@wharncliffepublishing.co.uk 2008-04-01 10:21:42 http://www.horsehealthmagazine.co.uk/?page=news&monthyear=2008-03 OVER 300 breeders gathered in London to celebrate the achievements of young British bred horses in 2007. Prizes were presented to the top scorers in the Bailey Horse Feeds British Breeding Futurity and Young Horse Evaluations, which has has its most successful year to date. The Futurity evaluates young performance horses and ponies, from foals to four years, to identify whether they have the talent to excel and are likely to cope with the rigours of modern competition. Each horse or pony is awarded scores out of ten for criteria including conformation, movement, athleticism and suitability for their chosen discipline. An overall mark is then calculated and all results recorded on the National Equine Database in order to allow the early identification of potentially successful breeding programmes. 2007 saw the first horses scoring tens, with the two year old colt, Furst Opera, bred by Gemini Stud, gaining full marks for type as a potential dressage horse and the three year old colt, Zubin R, bred by River Stud, received a ten for his athleticism as a show jumper. Horse Health Magazine - editorial@wharncliffepublishing.co.uk 2008-03-03 10:51:06 http://www.horsehealthmagazine.co.uk/?page=news&monthyear=2008-02 RACEHORSE owners could be wasting thousands on expensive top-end stud fees for horses that may fail to end up champions, according to a new study. Scientists at the University of Edinburgh claim research has shown that up to 90 per cent of a horse's lifetime winnings can be attributed to how the horse is reared, trained and ridden – and not how it is bred or its parentage. The study, published in Biology Letters journal, compared the stud fees, winnings and lifetime earnings of more than 4,000 thoroughbred horses used for racing and breeding since 1922. They found that although there is genetic variation for how much prize money a horse wins, paying out higher stud fees does not necessarily buy access to the best genes. Dr Alastair Wilson, of the University of Edinburgh's School of Biological Sciences, who led the selective breeding research, said: “The offspring of expensive stallions might tend to win more money, but not necessarily because they have inherited the best genes. “It is likely that those breeders who are best able to pay high stud fees are also those who are able to spend more on care of the horse, how it is trained and who rides it, all of which will contribute more to how much it will win. Of course, if every breeder is spending a lot on the care and training of the horse, then the difference between winning or losing will come down to the smaller details, such as who the parents are. “So picking the best genes can give an edge, but it is by no means clear that the best genes come with the highest price tag.” Horseracing is a multi-million pound industry and the high stakes mean that breeders will spend vast sums of money trying to buy the best genes for their horses. Breeders are prepared to pay extra if a stallion and its offspring have a good reputation. However, with the increasing availability of hi-tech training and fittening methods, a horse’s genetics may not be the deciding factor for much longer. What do you think? Write to Louise Cordell, Horse Health Magazine, 47 Church Street, Barnsley, South Yorkshire, S70 2AS or e-mail: lcordell@whpl.net Horse Health Magazine - editorial@wharncliffepublishing.co.uk 2008-02-07 14:44:13 http://www.horsehealthmagazine.co.uk/?page=news&monthyear=2008-01 THE Horse Trust has now received a further 17 horses and ponies that have been evacuated from the Amersham farm and has launched an emergency appeal, ‘Horse Heaven’ to help it respond to the crisis. These horses are in nowhere near as bad condition as the original consignment but have had to be removed for their own protection. All the horses in the Trust’s care are receiving special nutrition and veterinary care to nurse them back to health – but this costs a huge amount of money. The Horse Trust chief executive and veterinary surgeon Paul Jepson, said: “Our resources are certainly being stretched with the unexpected extra care that is being required. “It costs, on average, about £100 a week to keep a horse here, and of course these horses are undergoing additional tests and receiving often expensive emergency treatment.” Donations can be made directly via the Trust’s website www.horsetrust.org.uk or cheques may be sent to The Horse Trust, Slad Lane, Princes Risborough, Bucks HP27 0PP. Horse Health Magazine - editorial@wharncliffepublishing.co.uk 2008-01-14 14:23:47 http://www.horsehealthmagazine.co.uk/?page=news&monthyear=2008-01 THE International League for the Protection of Horses is appealing for people to come forward to re-home its exisiting horses and ponies to help ease the strain caused by the arrival of 11 rescued Amersham horses. The ILPH has been overwhelmed by the public response to the appalling case of equine cruelty in Amersham, Buckinghamshire and is looking for homes for its existing horses and ponies to help ease the strain caused by such a big operation. The ILPH has been assisting the RSPCA with the investigation since 4 January and on 10 January took in eleven of the horses, which will remain in ILPH care until a possible prosecution case at a later date. Tony Tyler, ILPH deputy chief executive, said: “The horses have been split between a number of welfare agencies, so the immediate housing problems have been dealt with. “However, large cases like this do put a strain on our yards as they are dealing with an increased number of horses, many of whom need intense and specialist care. “We currently have horses and ponies ready to be rehomed through our loan scheme from our centres in Norfolk, Lancashire, Somerset and Aberdeenshire, and finding homes for these animals will help us deal with these recent admissions.” If you are able to take a horse or pony on loan, please visit the ILPH loan scheme pages at www.ilph.org/hls. Horse Health Magazine - editorial@wharncliffepublishing.co.uk 2008-01-14 14:22:59 http://www.horsehealthmagazine.co.uk/?page=news&monthyear=2008-01 By Louise Cordell LEADING horse feed manufacturers are being invited to sign up to a new series of guidelines to reduce the risk of feed-related dope test failures. It is hoped that the move, led by the British Equestrian Trade Association, will allow trainers to single out the companies that are taking necessary precautions to minimise naturally occuring prohibited substances in their products. BETA represents more than 80 per cent of the UK’s feed, supplements and proprietary forage manufacturers. Following discussions with the British Horseracing Authority, they have written to trainers across the country to update them on progress. Claire Williams said: “Manufacturers that agree to the conditions of the new guidelines will be independently audited and all products manufactured under these guidelines will be clearly marked on the packaging. Participating companies will also adopt standard terms and conditions relating to prohibited substances that will clearly state the limit of liability they are able to undertake. “It is important for trainers to realise that products manufactured under these guideline will have a reduced risk of containing a prohibited substance, however that risk cannot be completely eliminated.” Since 2002, 45 racehorses in the UK and nine in Ireland have returned positive dope tests linked to morphine in feed, leading to their disqualification and forfeiting prize money. The heightened incidence of the presence of morphine in horses’ blood and urine is believed to coincide with increased cultivation of poppies, especially the papiver somniferum variety grown for the pharmaceutical industry in the UK. Reputable feed manufacturers scrupulously and routinely test raw materials for freedom from prohibited substances, however morphine traces typically occur in small, discreet pockets that are virtually impossible to detect. No morphine related disqualifications have occured in FEI competitions to date, however BETA is maintaining a watching brief over equestrian disciplines outside racing. Participating feed companies are consid-ering establishing a Weatherbys managed fund which would be used to compensate for lost prize money in the event of a morphine-related disqualification. Horse Health Magazine - editorial@wharncliffepublishing.co.uk 2008-01-08 14:00:17 http://www.horsehealthmagazine.co.uk/?page=news&monthyear=2008-01 ANIMAL welfare charity The Blue Cross has been chosen as the 2008 Charity of the Year at Badminton Horse Trials. One of the well known cross-country fences at the event will be named in the charity’s honour and they will also lead out the competitors parade at the end of the three day event in May. Kerstin Alford, director of equine welfare at The Blue Cross, said: “We are honoured to be chosen as Charity of the Year at such a prestigious event. “It is an exciting opportunity to tell people about our work rehabilitating and rehoming unwanted horses and ponies across the country.” The Blue Cross is supported by leading international event rider and Olympic competitor Mary King. To help celebrate The Blue Cross’s success, she made a trip to the Gloucestershire estate to meet and try out some of the charity’s horses that have found success in new homes. Mary said: “I think the work of charities like The Blue Cross is truly commendable.    “Some people mistakenly think that charities only deal with elderly or companion horses, or those in poor health.  “But I’ve seen first-hand that The Blue Cross works with some fine riding horses that any owner would be proud to take on.” Hugh Thomas, Director of Badminton Horse Trials, added: “The Blue Cross perfectly fits our criteria in being a major national charity with strong local connections.  “We are lucky to have their horse ambulances here every year and it is particularly good to be able to recognise the dedicated work of people who help us in such a practical way.” Horse Health Magazine - editorial@wharncliffepublishing.co.uk 2008-01-02 15:00:56 http://www.horsehealthmagazine.co.uk/?page=news&monthyear=2008-01 FROM false legs for dogs, to a wheelchair chariot for a rat, Salford University scientist Glyn Heath has brought mobility to dozens of disabled animals. Now the former zoologist is hoping that before long horses will be benefiting from his ground-breaking treatments. Dr Heath said: “We have had many enquiries about treatments for horses as vets are usually forced to resort to euthanasia when there is serious damage to the legs. “Up until now, there have not been any particularly successful prostheses in horses. “It is not the size of the animal that is the issue, as many people think; our technology can scale the artificial parts up to fit a brachiosaurus if we needed to! “But according to the vets we have spoken to, the main problem with fitting them to horses is issues with healing in the lower leg. “However, one area where we could really make a difference would be with injuries like sprains, by using something like a human caliper or knee brace, to allow the horse to recover strength. “You can’t tell a horse to take it easy for a few weeks like you can with a person, but equipment like this lets the healing take place. “So in situations where othotic restoration or post surgical rest is needed there will be scope for our work. “It is definitely an area that needs further research.” Dr Heath’s service is the first of its kind in the world and is currently only available via referrals from veterinary clinics. However, through the formation last year of a spin off company, Lacerta, Dr Heath hopes to make it available to the general public. Lacerta has now been nominated for the Times Higher Awards 2007 in the category of Outstanding Contribution to Innovation and Technology. Dr Heath added: “It is a really important area as, especially with older animals, it can be a cheaper and less traumatic alternative to surgery, allowing continuing good quality of life that they could not otherwise have had. “In the future we aim to open clinics, develop a regular clinical base and use the money from that to fund further research. Unfortunately we can only do as much as resources allow us to do. “So we are hoping that by building up the business as much as possible, we will be able to raise enough money to make the treatment easily accessible for everyone that needs it.” Horse Health Magazine - editorial@wharncliffepublishing.co.uk 2008-01-02 15:00:11 http://www.horsehealthmagazine.co.uk/?page=news&monthyear=2008-01 THE pioneering veterinary research carried out by Professor William ‘Twink’ Allen has been recognised at the Animal Health Trust UK Equestrian Awards. He was presented with the Martin Collins Special Award for outstanding contribution to equestrianism in 2007. The prize is given to an individual who has been involved across all the equestrian disciplines and has gone beyond the calll of duty to make a real difference. Born and raised in New Zealand, Professor Allen went on to found the Equine Fertility Unit (EFU), a small, specialised veterinary research group which carries out research into aspects of reproduction in stallions and mares, based since 1988 in Newmarket.  He was appointed to the first Jim Joel Professorship of Equine Reproduction at Cambridge Veterinary School in 1995 and has remained Honorary Director of the EFU. The EFU produced Europe's first test-tube foal in 2001 and has been the primary driver in increasing fertility rates in Thoroughbreds. It has recently been carrying out three major research projects, including one on using equine embryonic stem cells for tendon repair, but is due to close at the end of the year due to lack of funding. Professor Allen said: “I am flabbergasted, surprised and delighted. “It is an honour to be recognised like this, but I’d like people to recognise that the award is really for the many people who have created the Equine Fertility Unit, I’ve just been lucky enough to lead it. “There’s been a whole raft of equine, veterinary and scientific staff who have created it, and this is for them.” Horse Health Magazine - editorial@wharncliffepublishing.co.uk 2008-01-02 14:59:35 http://www.horsehealthmagazine.co.uk/?page=news&monthyear=2007-12 THE Blue Cross equine welfare centre in Rolleston-on-Dove is celebrating twelve months of caring for the region’s horses. The centre was officially opened on September 29 2006 and, one year on, has helped over 70 horses and ponies, of which 29 have been successfully rehomed. Horses coming into The Blue Cross are assessed then placed on a programme of rehabilitation to address any health, fitness or behavioural issues. They are then rehomed whenever possible, where the charity continues to monitor their progress twice yearly for the rest of their lives. Kath Urwin, centre manager at Rolleston, said: “I can’t believe how quickly a year has gone by, but we are all so proud to look back at what we have achieved in that time. “Every horse is an individual and there have been some challenges along the way, but nothing compares to the satisfaction of placing a horse in a happy new home, knowing that whatever their background, they will have a secure future.” Staff and volunteers at the centre have received a huge amount of support from the local community, not only from prospective horse owners, but from other visitors that have attended public events. Kath added: “We love opening up the centre to visitors and never fail to to be impressed by the amount of people that turn up. “Our last open day attracted over a thousand visitors and raised £2,000. “We are always grateful for any donations as we do not receive any government funding and rely of the generosity of the general public to continue our work.” Horse Health Magazine - editorial@wharncliffepublishing.co.uk 2007-12-05 11:02:14 http://www.horsehealthmagazine.co.uk/?page=news&monthyear=2007-12 VETERAN Horse Welfare has been named as Intelligent Horsemanship’s nominated charity for 2008. The charity specialises in older horses and many of their rescue cases have shown behavioural problems related to previous events in their lives. Kelly Marks of Intelligent Horsemanship said: “Veteran Horse Welfare is a wonderful charity to support as their work is invaluable and totally reliant on donations. “They have to deal with some terrible cases and what can make it worse is that they are fighting with the horse’s age against them. “Many horses come to them with terrible anxiety problems, so it is not just their physical health that is impaired, but their mental health as well. “We hope that many people will think of them this winter as their funds are always stretched and their work is so vital.” Julianne Aston, Veteran Horse Welfare chief executive, said: “We are extremely honoured to have been chosen by Intelligent Horsemanship to become their nominated charity. “We really hope that this will highlight the work we do within the UK, as we are one of the smaller equine charities, it is very difficult to get grants or funding, but this kind of recognition gives our profile a real lift.” Horse Health Magazine - editorial@wharncliffepublishing.co.uk 2007-12-05 11:01:32 http://www.horsehealthmagazine.co.uk/?page=news&monthyear=2007-12 THIS year’s winner of Britain’s Best Donkey Award helped to transform the life of his owner after he was diagnosed with cancer. Mike Thomas decided to run donkey rides on the local beach to ensure he kept fit following his illness. One of his donkeys, six-year-old Dennis, has now received his prize at a ceremony in Llanelli, at the town’s Millennium Coastal Park. The annual award, set up by the Sidmouth based Donkey Sanctuary in 2003, aims to recognise high standards of animal welfare, health and happiness. Dennis is the first donkey from Wales to win the award, beating almost 1,000 rivals and was given his rosette and trophy at a gala ceremony attending by Llanelli’s mayor, Raymond Neil. Horse Health Magazine - editorial@wharncliffepublishing.co.uk 2007-12-05 11:00:38 http://www.horsehealthmagazine.co.uk/?page=news&monthyear=2007-12 THIS year’s Twemlow Hall Burghley Award has gone unclaimed after the British mares competing were placed outside the top 19. The award was introduced in order to encourage more people to breed from top mares and the winning scholarship is offered to the best of the best in three day eventing. The highest placed British bred or domiciled mare at Burghley that finishes in the top 20 per cent is presented with a package for two embryo transfers, at a value of more than £6,000. However, this year of the 96 competition entries only eight were mares. Furthermore, only five of these qualified as British bred or domiciled. Richard Matson, senior partner at R L Matson & Son Twemlows Stud, said: “It is a shame that the scholarship was not won this year as the whole purpose is to encourage people to compete mares more and to breed them while they are still competing. “Hopefully next year Burghley will use the award to motivate more mares to compete, as there is the chance of this wonderful prize. One of the main problems of using top mares to breed from is that they are often in the prime of their competitive lives while they are also at the optimum age for breeding. Embryo transfer enables foals to be bred from these top mares, without disrupting their competitive careers. Mr Matson added: “The real focus has to be on getting mares to compete more and, while they are in prime condition, which is when they will be competing, to breed from them too. “Only five per cent of the top eventing horses are mares, so it is important that as many of them as possible are able to pass their great qualities on.” The prize has already been awarded retrospectively to last year’s eventing winner, Headley Britannia. The mare’s scholarship took place this summer and she has now received the embryo transfer treatment. It has been a great success with two recipients now currently in foal and due to give birth in April and June 2008. Horse Health Magazine - editorial@wharncliffepublishing.co.uk 2007-12-05 11:00:14 http://www.horsehealthmagazine.co.uk/?page=news&monthyear=2007-11 A NEW website has been launched to provide an up-to-date, comprehensive resource for farriers throughout the UK. The only website of its kind for the national farriery industry, Forge and Farrier contains all the information that apprentice, competitive and non-competitive farriers may need, from upcoming events to a suppliers directory, as well as information about governing bodies and education and training possibilities. The site has been developed by Nigel Brown AWCF, a farrier based in South Wales, and his wife, Claire, who runs the website. Claire said: “We initially wanted to set up an online resource for the competitive farrier but, the more we spoke to people within the industry, the more we realised that there was a demand for a comprehensive all-round site that covered training, governing bodies, competition news and a list of suppliers, in fact, everything a farrier might need.” The site includes a year round events calendar which lists all forth coming competitions, both in the UK and abroad, with results and reports being posted after each event. Approved Training Farriers and apprentices can view intake deadlines on the calendar and can make use of the education and training section for details on courses available at each of the four farrier training colleges. This section also includes articles written by award-winning farriers, such as Darren Bazin AWCF and Gary Darlow AFCL, and has listing of clinics and tuition that are on offer. A suppliers directory is included to keep new and more experienced farriers up to date with new product launches and special offers, while a notice board details current news affecting the industry. There is also an articles of interest section, which includes features on horse health and business matters. Finally, for the non-farrier, the Horse Owner section includes a ‘find a farrier’ link to the Farriers Registration Council’s website together with articles about the different types of shoe, what is involved in a shoeing competition and information about what to expect when your farrier visits. Claire and Nigel are hoping to grow the site over the coming months and develop it into part of every farrier’s daily life. They are extremely keen for everyone within the industry to play a part in its development by submitting articles and have already received a lot of positive feedback, both from farriers in the UK and from abroad. Claire added: “Forge & Farrier is unique, not only because it is the only comprehensive resource within the UK but also because it has been created solely by farriers. “Once we are established, we are really keen to put something back into the industry, maybe in the form of sponsoring competitions or something similar. “We want to be able to help the people that have been supporting us and, hopefully, will continue to do so.” Horse Health Magazine - editorial@wharncliffepublishing.co.uk 2007-11-01 15:14:43 http://www.horsehealthmagazine.co.uk/?page=news&monthyear=2007-11 THE British Equine Veterinary Association Welfare Award has been presented to the founder of The Donkey sanctuary, Dr Elisabeth Svendsen. The award, which is sponsored by The Blue Cross, is a formal recognition of significant contributions made by veterinary surgeons and others to equine welfare. Dr Svendsen was also recognised for her role in providing funding for new buildings, vets and vet nurses at various veterinary schools in the UK. The award was presented at the 46th BEVA Annual Congress by John Rutter, chief executive of the Blue Cross. He said: “I am delighted to present this award to Dr Svendsen, who has dedicated so much of her life to improving the lives of donkeys around the world. “The Blue Cross has been caring for horses for over 100 years and this annual award gives us an opportunity to recognise others who have made significant contributions to equine welfare. The Donkey Sanctuary was founded by Dr Elisabeth Svendsen in 1969 and since this date the charity has taken over 12,000 donkeys into its care in the UK and Ireland. Dr Svendsen said: “I have been working with donkeys for 38 years and still have much to learn about this humble, much abused animal. “We like to think of our Sanctuary facilities in the UK as a centre of excellence and we consistently train overseas vets so that with their new knowledge they can go back and spread the word in their countries. “I appreciate this award tremendously and my thanks go to the veterinary profession for their support and encouragement over the years.” Horse Health Magazine - editorial@wharncliffepublishing.co.uk 2007-11-01 15:13:47 http://www.horsehealthmagazine.co.uk/?page=news&monthyear=2007-11 THE BHS is warning horse owners that further increases in the price of horse feed are likely in the coming months. Many horse owners will have noticed that the price of feed has risen recently. This is due to an increase in the price of grain, caused by the poor weather this summer. Also to blame is the fact that more grain is now being purchased for use as biofuel, which has further inflated the price. After contacting a number of large feed manufacturers, the BHS has reported that many have agreed the increase in grain costs will impact on the price of horse feed. As a consequence, they are now warning horse owners to plan ahead for the winter and be prepared for further possible price increases. Lee Hackett, BHS Welfare Senior Executive, said: “We are not talking about huge increases in price and there is certainly no need to be overly concerned. “Those people with only a couple of horses to feed will not notice a great deal of difference, but it will have an impact on bigger yards who buy in large quantities of feed.” The BHS are now suggesting that horse owners consider their horses’ needs and think about whether or not cereal based feeds are appropriate. Many horses do not need cereals and can benefit more from calories provided in forage form. Mr Hackett added: “Now may be a good opportunity for owners to reassess their horse’s diet and check that it is appropriate. “However, any changes to a horse’s diet should be made gradually and we would advise horse owners not to cut corners when buying feed. “Even though it may cost more, buying from a reputable manufacturer ensures that you know what you are feeding and the horse is getting the nutrients it needs.” Horse Health Magazine - editorial@wharncliffepublishing.co.uk 2007-11-01 15:12:41 http://www.horsehealthmagazine.co.uk/?page=news&monthyear=2007-11 AUSTRALIA’S recovery from an outbreak of horse flu has experienced a setback with further cases detected this month. The respiratory disease is highly contagious and has spread rapidly, with a huge impact on the Australian horse industry. A national response involving the Australian and state Government and equine organisations has been working to eradicate the disease, but the battle is not yet won. From the end of last month, buffer zones and ring vaccinations have been used to contain areas of high concentration infection in New South Wales and Queensland. This is exclusively for the eradication campaign and there is currently no proposal for any general vaccination of horses. Australian Veterinary Association President Dr Diane Sheehan has said that while the crisis is far from over, it is important to know how the disease entered the country and how it spread. She said: “There is still much to be done and our first priority must be to continue to provide the resources necessary to get this under control, and to help those who need assistance. “However, questions will have to be answered about how this breach of bio-security occurred so that we learn from it. “Just as importantly, we need to look at whether the resources we have available will be adequate in future.” The outbreak has already cost the equine industry millions and it is estimated that the after effects will be felt for many years to come. Alasdair King, veterinary manager at Intervet, said: “While Australia could, in some ways, be considered lucky, as it appears that the strain of flu virus introduced is one of the less virulent ones, the outbreak is still disrupting every aspect of the horse industry. “The breeding season is also suffering as movement restrictions stop stallions and mares being brought together. “In fact it is believed that up to 70 per cent of brood mares in New South Wales may remain uncovered.” Now, the Equestrian Federation of Australia has developed a horse flu action plan it claims can revive the equestrian industry. Under the plan state and federal governments would offer extra financial assistance to affected horse owners via an interest relief scheme. The EFA is also seeking an immediate vaccination program for equestrian horses if the equine influenza outbreak is not under control by next month. Horse Health Magazine - editorial@wharncliffepublishing.co.uk 2007-11-01 15:11:55 http://www.horsehealthmagazine.co.uk/?page=news&monthyear=2007-10 PRACTICAL Horse Nutrition by R.H. Kerrigan B.ScAgr. M.A.A.S. M.A.A.A.C. Australian born Robert Kerrigan was instrumental in establishing the Horse Management Certificate Course within the NSW Dept of Technical and Further Education, and is renowned for advising horse-owners across the disciplines on feeding methods. In his book, the comparison between the digestive systems of ‘commercial’ animals, such as sheep and cattle at first glance may seem irrelevant, but in fact it forms the basis of just how horses eat, why they are unable to eat the same feeds as these animals, and why they need ‘clean’ uncontaminated feeds. Importantly, he also addresses the problem of why horses do not cope with nutrition in excess of their requirements. The horse, by nature, was designed to use excess feed to support its ‘flight’ response, therefore, to produce energy, so horses overfed in relation to their actual requirements, have no way in which to utilize the excess. He states: “Modern horse management practices, where we ‘hard feed’ horses confined in stables without adequate exercise, are directly opposite and contrary to how nature designed the horse to function.” The nutritional requirements of the horse are broken down and covered in detail, together with potential problems created by imbalances, and a comprehensive section on condition scoring. Importantly, he includes a very useful section on just what is contained in a feed, and whether it gives value for money. Kerrigan concludes his book with several pages of practical horse nutrition guidelines, which, if they were to be observed by the horse owner, would lead to sound equine feeding practice. Exclusive Offer for Horse Health Readers: This book is already in it’s third edition, which gives some idea of it’s popularity. It is published in Australia by the author and is available exclusively in the UK and Ireland from Thoroughbred Interntational Inc for £34.50. To order please contact Kelly Tarff on 01226 734695 or e-mail: kt@whpl.net. Horse Health Magazine - editorial@wharncliffepublishing.co.uk 2007-10-10 09:12:37 http://www.horsehealthmagazine.co.uk/?page=news&monthyear=2007-10 A WOMAN who allowed a pregnant horse to starve to death has been jailed for breaching her ban on keeping horses. Delia Stacey of Strachey Close, Tidmarsh, Reading appeared before Guildford Crown Court earlier this month where she was given a 35 day prison sentence, an extra five year ban and was ordered to pay £2000 costs. Stacey’s 86 acre Pepperbox Stud in Bramley was visited by ILPH and RSPCA officers in March 2005. They found three emaciated horses including a bay mare, Desert Sand, who was pregnant and unable to stand as she was so weak. A vet was called in to treat the horses, but it was too late to save the mare and she was finally euthanased. In the next field, in full view of the horses, were 1000 bales of hay. In May 2006 Stacey was given a three year ban, a one month suspended sentence, 120 hours community service and a fine of £9,000. However, she was spotted transporting horses along the M25 by an RSPCA inspector a few days later. As she was travelling four polo ponies on her own and breaching her ban, she was arrested and taken into custody. ILPH Field Officer Ted Barnes said: “This has been a very long and protracted case and I am absolutely delighted with the outcome. “It goes to show that people who mistreat horses and flout their ban can run but they can’t hide. “I totally endorse the sentence given to Delia Stacey and hope that it will be a lesson to her.” Horse Health Magazine - editorial@wharncliffepublishing.co.uk 2007-10-02 09:41:00 http://www.horsehealthmagazine.co.uk/?page=news&monthyear=2007-10 The Open College of Equine Studies is set to host a second Equine Science Conference this October, following the success of last year’s event. The first conference achieved its aim of bringing together veterinary surgeons, scientists, educators, students and others involved in owning, riding or managing horses. This year’s function, to be held over the 20 and 21 October at Boxted Hall near Bury St Edmunds, will be open to all. It will be of interest and benefit to equine science graduates and undergraduates, yard and stud managers, as well as the interested private horse owner. World renowned experts, including Professor Twink Allen and Dr David Marlin, will speak on a range of topical and emerging areas of equine science, giving visitors the opportunity to discuss the latest findings with people involved at the ‘cutting edge’. Talks will include a discussion of heart murmurs and collapse from Dr Lesley E Young, new developments in assessing fitness and ability from Dr David Marlin and the role of exercise in rehabilitation from Kathryn Nankervis. Dr Mark Kennedy will be speaking on equine welfare in the 21st century and Dr Colin Roberts will be looking into chronic fatigue syndrome in horses and medication issues in sport. Other speakers will be addressing new and emerging threats to equine health, advances in performance horse feeds, the development and application of modern breeding technologies and the role of the team vet. Horse Health Magazine - editorial@wharncliffepublishing.co.uk 2007-10-02 09:40:46 http://www.horsehealthmagazine.co.uk/?page=news&monthyear=2007-10 NEW ‘safety’ cross-country flags are to be used on certain fences from this month, in line with revised British Eventing rules. In order to reduce the risk of injury to horse or rider, all flags and poles on certain fence types must meet four criteria based on construction, material, design and how the flags are secured to the fence. Among other requirements, poles must be made of material that cannot shatter or splinter and poles and flags must have no points or sharp corners. Flags must also be secured in such a way that they ‘break away’ from the fence if it is struck, to reduce the chance or the horse or rider being injured. The rules will apply to several types of fences including narrow jumps and those with corner approaches. The change follows the freak accident at Badminton in which French rider Jean-Lou Bigot's horse Icare D'Auzay died after being staked by a wooden flag at the Vicarage Vee that snapped and pierced several arteries. British Eventing Sport Director, Mike Etherington-Smith, said: “Safety of horse and rider is the number one priority in our sport and any steps which can be taken to further improve it will be taken. “This rule is a safety measure to avoid potential accidents and it is hoped that all organisers will understand the importance of introducing such flags as soon as possible.” A number of manufacturers are currently supply flags which meet the criteria and British Eventing will make a list available to help event organisers source the required equipment. All flags and flagpoles to be used in eventing situations will now need to be approved by the BE Field Staff. Horse Health Magazine - editorial@wharncliffepublishing.co.uk 2007-10-02 09:31:32 http://www.horsehealthmagazine.co.uk/?page=news&monthyear=2007-10 THE British Horse Society is warning people to be wary when responding to adverts seeking companion horses. The caution comes after an increase in the number of reports that these animals are being sold on to new homes. The BHS is concerned for their welfare as animals deemed suitable as companions often have physical reasons why they should not be ridden. A number of calls have been received by the BHS from concerned members who have responded to these adverts. Some months after selling their horse as a companion, it has been sold on to a new home as a riding horse. In some cases this appears to be a money making venture as companion horses often change hands for little or no money, but can be sold for hundreds or thousands of pounds. Lee Hackett, BHS Welfare Senior Executive, said: “Although it only happens in a small number of cases, the increase in the number of reports of this practice we have received is worrying. “We are obviously concerned for the horses and the calls we have received have highlighted how distressing this is for the animal’s previous owners. “We must stress that this is not a common occurrence and we would not seek to put people off finding homes for their horses as companions. “It can be an excellent way to ensure and injured or elderly horse has a safe and permanent home.” Horse Health Magazine - editorial@wharncliffepublishing.co.uk 2007-10-02 09:30:17 http://www.horsehealthmagazine.co.uk/?page=news&monthyear=2007-09 THE British Grooms Association, a national organisation for grooms of all disciplines, has been invited to join the Scottish Equestrian Association as an Associate Member. Lucy Katan, BGA Executive Director, said: “I am delighted that we have been welcomed into the SEA as this is an indication that the BGA has already gained vital recognition from the equestrian industry. “This will provide Scottish grooms with a much needed voice and I look forward to working closely with our Scottish members and the SEA.” BGA membership is available to all grooms who work in the UK, whatever their nationality, and to British grooms that are working abroad. Muriel Colquhoun, Hon Chief Executive of the SEA, said: “The professional groom is, next to the rider, the most important person on the medal-winning team. “Recognition and understanding of this valued member of the workforce in the professional equine yard is vital to the welfare and wellbeing of the horse in all its varying environments. “SEA fully supports the BGA and wishes it well for the future.” Horse Health Magazine - editorial@wharncliffepublishing.co.uk 2007-09-03 10:40:40 http://www.horsehealthmagazine.co.uk/?page=news&monthyear=2007-09 THE latest animal cruelty statistics for England and Wales have shown a general increase in offences against horses. The RSPCA’s annual review revealed that mistreatment cases are up 33 per cent on the previous year. Jackie Ballard, RSPCA director general, said: “Neglect has always been the most common form of cruelty but some of the cases we have seen defy belief.” However, the charity have stated that the introduction of the Animal Welfare Act in March had made a significant impact, allowing inspectors to intervene sooner. In one reported case a stallion’s hooves were found to have been seriously neglected and had overgrown by more than one metre. Its owner, aged 62, of Pembrokeshire, was banned from owning horses for three years, fined £1,000 and told to pay £1,800 costs after admitting causing unnecessary suffering in November 2006. Martyn Hubbard, RSPCA superintendent for Wales and the west, said the increase in cruelty against horses was particularly disturbing. He said: “These magnificent creatures have very specific needs in terms of feeding, exercise, habitat and veterinary attention. “As with cruelty against other animals, we will not stand by and watch them suffer silently in fields and stables.” Horse Health Magazine - editorial@wharncliffepublishing.co.uk 2007-09-03 10:39:35 http://www.horsehealthmagazine.co.uk/?page=news&monthyear=2007-09 THIS year’s first regional British Breeding Futurity Young Horse Evaluation saw a record breaking number of entries and a series of high scores. The programme is designed to identify performance potential, with a view to nurturing talent for long term competitive success. Over 60 young horses from foals to four years were presented for evaluation. A consistent improvement in quality from previous years was reported, with 62 per cent of those evaluated receiving a first premium diploma. A new veterinary section also enabled potential performance inhibiting issues, such as hoof trimming, to be identified early and rectified. The first ever ‘perfect 10’ was secured for type in the two year old dressage horse section by Furst Opera by Furst Heinrich (Westf) out of a Weltregent (Hann) mare, owned and bred in Rutland by Georgina Brett for her newly-formed Gemini Stud. Furst Opera scored over nine in every other section giving a record overall average score of 93 per cent. Graham Suggett, BEF Director of Equine Development, said: “With advance entries for all of the established Futurity venues nearing capacity, it is very pleasing that the benefits of this programme are starting to be realised. “The aim is to continue to improve the quality of our British sport horses and ponies such that we can reinvigorate the British breeding industry and make it more buoyant and financially viable.” Horse Health Magazine - editorial@wharncliffepublishing.co.uk 2007-09-03 10:38:14 http://www.horsehealthmagazine.co.uk/?page=news&monthyear=2007-08 By Louise Cordell CELEBRITY chef Gordon Ramsay has been branded as irresponsible for his support of the horse meat trade by the International League for the Protection of Horses. The charity’s comments come after a recent episode of his F Word programme which featured journalist Janet Street-Porter cooking horse burgers at Cheltenham racecourse. Jo White, ILPH Head of Campaigns and European Affairs, said: “While the ILPH finds the consumption of horse meat distasteful, we accept that in some cultures it is a meat animal. Our concern is how a horse gets onto the plate. “The programme did not reflect the reality of the trade, we were in discussion with their researchers in advance of the programme but their interest was only in focussing on an idyllic horse farm in France. The reality is that the long distance transport of the living animal for slaughter as opposed to a carcass trade accounts for nearly half of all horse meat.” The ILPH is currently campaigning for horses to be slaughtered at source in their country of origin to avoid unnecessary suffering and for all EU Member States to move to a carcass only trade. The charity is also gathering evidence to support its view that finite journey limits must be introduced into current EU rules. Jo added: “By encouraging people to eat more horsemeat while glossing over the realities of the trade the programme was actually encourag-ing an increase in cruel long distance transport of horses for slaughter.” Following the screening of the F Word episode, a truckload of horse manure was dumped outside Ramsay’s Claridges restaurant in London’s West End. The stunt was carried out by protesters from People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals Europe, which criticised the show as a ‘ratings gimmick’. Horse Health Magazine - editorial@wharncliffepublishing.co.uk 2007-08-17 09:02:53 http://www.horsehealthmagazine.co.uk/?page=news&monthyear=2007-08 JUST a month after its launch at Badminton the new British Grooms Association has already attracted over 220 members. The BGA works to provide support and advice to working grooms and aims to continually improve the recognition of its members as professionals. A 12-month sponsorship deal with Spillers and Winergy has also been announced, and they now join other sponsors including NAF, SEIB and Merial Equine Health. Grooms in all equestrian disciplines are being encouraged to join, from those working in riding schools to Olympic competition grooms. Benefits for members include a legal advice phone hotline, a quarterly membership magazine and special rates on personal accident insurance with SEIB. They will also be offered discount with Derby House Saddlery and various equine magazines. Lucy Katan, BGA executive director, said: “I am so excited that the British Grooms Association has finally been launched after many years of planning it. I am delighted that we have had so much support from sponsors and the industry.” For more information or to become a member of the BGA, grooms can visit www.britishgrooms.org.uk. Horse Health Magazine - editorial@wharncliffepublishing.co.uk 2007-08-17 09:02:45 http://www.horsehealthmagazine.co.uk/?page=news&monthyear=2007-08 By Louise Cordell A ‘BAD attitude’ to exercise may actually be due to undiagnosed and untreated hock pain according to research funded by The Horse Trust. Osteoarthritis of the distal tarsal joints, better known as bone spavin, is the most common cause of hind limb lameness in horses. Its effect ranges from mild to severe and incapacitating and, although X-rays can facilitate diagnosis, subtle lesions can be difficult to detect. In extreme cases, if the condition cannot be cured, euthanasia may be necessary. The research stated: “Overall this study has provided a greater understanding of what is normal and abnormal in equine distal tarsal structure, and provided the first description of pathology in painful tarsi, without radiographic evidence of disease. It has also shown the great potential for the use of MRI in diagnosis, management and study of this disease. We believe that the results have improved welfare by improving under-standing of how the disease develops.” The study compared tarsal joints from horses with a known history of pasture rest, low-intensity ridden exercise and high level competition training, including show-jumping dressage and three-day eventing. The joints all came from animals which had been humanely destroyed for reasons other than incurable osteoarthritis and included joints from animals which had had tarsal pain confirmed by radiography and from horses that had tarsal pain, but in which no radiographic changes had been identified. X-ray, magnetic resonance imagery (MRI), bone densitometry and detailed microscopic examination determined each joint’s structure of bone, cartilage and ligaments, and the findings were compared to evaluate the best way of detecting painful abnormalities in the lower hock. The study found that horses exhibiting lameness due to bone spavins had marked abnormalities of the bone thickness pattern found in normal tarsal joints, including change in the cartilage, bone, intertarsal ligaments or a combination of all of these. The MRI provided a clearer identification of subtle abnormalities, making it easier to diagnose bone spavins. It also appeared that working in straight lines has different effects from circles and turns, suggesting that altering the work a horse does could modify the strains. This could potentially be used in prevention, rehabilitation or management of osteoarthritic changes. Horse Health Magazine - editorial@wharncliffepublishing.co.uk 2007-08-17 09:02:38 http://www.horsehealthmagazine.co.uk/?page=news&monthyear=2007-08 Twenty-one-year-old Ellen Whitaker claimed her first British Speed Derby title at Hickstead last month on Henri De Herne. In the past two years she has finished second and third in this event but missed out on the top slot and this year it was a tough challenge in heavy rain. However, Ellen originally shot to fame with her bay Holstein stallion, AK Locarno 62. In 2004 he helped her break a new record as the youngest rider to jump a clear round in the Hickstead Derby finishing in second place behind her uncle John. Inside we hear from Ellen and her father Steven about Locarno’s recovery from a heel injury and how he was trained back into top form after six months o Horse Health Magazine - editorial@wharncliffepublishing.co.uk 2007-08-17 09:02:29 http://www.horsehealthmagazine.co.uk/?page=news&monthyear=2007-06 By Louise Cordell A TEN-YEAR action plan to improve horse health and welfare in Great Britain has been launched in London. Over 150 local school children joined VIPs at the free interactive launch event to celebrate the new Equine Health and Welfare Strategy. The scheme is a unique document that has been put together by more than 20 key organisations, including the ILPH, British Equine Veterinary Association and several government departments. The group are now working together with the aim of achieving a single vision for equine health and welfare. Lesley Barwise-Munro, past president of the British Equine Veterinary Association and honorary vice president of the National Equine Welfare Council attended the launch. She said: “The strategy aims to achieve high standards of health and welfare for all horses in Britain, whatever their breed, type or usage. I would like to thank all the people and organisations that have enabled this event to take place and I look forward to seeing their work unfold over the coming years. It will make a real difference to Great Britain’s horse population.” The strategy details eight key aims, including reviews of health and welfare standards, health surveillance arrangements, methods of equine identification and welfare observation arrangements. The group will also be looking into the current and future plans for medical needs and availability, equine education, skills and training and research requirements. Desi Dillingham, the founder chairman of British Dressage and a director of the British Horse Foundation, said: "Our horse industry is vibrant and exciting, and this strategy gives me huge confidence that it will develop and grow in the right way over the next decade. I cannot emphasise strongly enough how important it is that so many organisations are willing to work together, for the good of the horse." Jockey Frankie Dettori has also lent his support to the initiative and said: “It is a major step forward to see so many organisations work together for the good of horses in the UK. The health and welfare of horses should be a main priority for every part of the industry that relies on them and this strategy is going to be key to that in the next decade.” Horse Health Magazine - editorial@wharncliffepublishing.co.uk 2007-06-21 15:08:42 http://www.horsehealthmagazine.co.uk/?page=news&monthyear=2007-06 THE UK’s first Gastric Ulcer Awareness Month is underway and is aiming to publicise one of the most under diagnosed medical problems in the equine field. Organised by Merial Equine Health and supported by the British Equine Veterinary Association, GUAM has been designed to increase awareness and understanding of this important condition. A series of informative events and initiatives aimed at both veterinary surgeons and horse owners will be taking place throughout the month. John McEwen of the Cross Country Equine Clinic and Director Of Equine Sports Science & Medicine for the World Class Performance Programme believes that gastric ulcers are probably one of the most underestimated equine illnesses. Mr McEwen said: “The clinical signs of gastric uncertain can be vague and vary from one horse to another, and we suspect that they are a considerably bigger problem in competition and leisure horses than has previously been believed. “Despite the increased availability of 3 metre video-endoscopes which has helped improve both diagnosis and awareness of gastric ulcers, clearly many horses still go undiagnosed.” Gastric ulcers are erosions in the stomach wall caused by the stomach digesting itself. Left untreated they can cause a variety of problems from poor performance to recurrent colic. In adult horses the signs are usually subtle but can include weight loss, poor performance, decreased appetite, dullness, recurrent colic and wind sucking, although sometimes there are no symptoms at all. As well as drug treatment feeding low concentrate, high fibre diets, reducing the intensity of training and reducing stress can all help to minimise the ulcer’s impact. Dr Emma Batson of Merial said: “Whilst around 90 per cent of racehorses in training have ulcers, it’s perhaps less well known that about 60 per cent of performance horses and 35 per cent of leisure horses are also affected. “The aim is to increase the awareness of gastric ulcers and the vague symptoms associated with them.” Mr McEwen added: “Ulcers can significantly affect the temperament and performance of the horse, so where horses are at high risk or ulcers are suspected, diagnosis, successful treatment and preventive management are crucial.” Horse Health Magazine - editorial@wharncliffepublishing.co.uk 2007-06-05 11:54:16 http://www.horsehealthmagazine.co.uk/?page=news&monthyear=2007-06 CARE and treatment for horses involved in accidents is set to improve with the launch of an Emergency Services Protocol Veterinary Fund. The scheme aims to ensure that emergency crews have clearly laid out procedures for dealing with incidents involving horses and that the animals should be attended to as quickly as possible by a vet with appropriate knowledge and facilities. The British Horse Society has contributed to the fund with a £6,000 donation, ahead of the project’s official launch later this month. Graham Cory, BHS Chief Executive, said: "It is clearly not acceptable that we should permit horses to suffer unnecessarily simply through want of immediate veterinary care and attention. “The BHS is delighted to support the fund established by the British Equine Veterinary Association so we can ensure that horses are attended to in the quickest possible time.” A huge response has already been received from the BEVA membership and hundreds of practices are already signed up to be on the Emergency Services call centre contact list. The fund will ensure that no veterinary practice on the list should suffer financially if, having attended road traffic incidents, they are not paid their fees. Although the main driving force of the fund is to support veterinary practices, any surplus money raised will be used to cover the training of Emergency Service Officers in basic horse handling skills and equine emergency management. Further funding plans could also include the provision of specialist lifting equipment and a training DVD. Josh Slater, BEVA President, said: “I am delighted that the BHS has so readily supported this valuable initiative, not only in its instigation of the Protocol and subsequent horse handling skills training but with this most generous donation too.” Horse Health Magazine - editorial@wharncliffepublishing.co.uk 2007-06-01 14:11:13