What is arthritis and how does it happen? Osteoarthritis (OA), also termed degenerative joint disease, is a common problem in all types of horses and can affect a number of different joints with the potential of ending many racing and other performance careers. In racing and performance horses it often affects the high motion… Continue Reading
Category Archives: Health
Septic Arthritis
By Dr. Dave Mullins: Equine Veterinary Services It’s a classic situation. “Hey Doc, can you come and look at my new colt? I think the old mare stepped on him ’cause he’s a bit lame today.” When the foal is evaluated, you find a swollen joint or two, and the colt also has a slight… Continue Reading
Insect Bite Hypersensitivity (Sweet Itch)
By Dr Dave Mullins: Equine Veterinary Services This is the most common cause of summer pruritis. It results in an immune mediated hypersensitivity to the salivary antigenic chemicals of Culicoidesspp.midges. There is a strong seasonal relationship with the occurrence of Culicoides midges. ie: late Spring to late Autumn. Horses affected are usually over 5 years of… Continue Reading
Stomach Ulcers in Horses and Foals
By Dr Dave Mullins: Equine Veterinary Services Stomach ulcers are a common finding in normal horses and foals, 51% of these are asymptomatic. Clinical signs of ulcers are mostly seen in performance horses, especially race horses; and foals. Causes: Ulcers are caused by an increase in acid production in the stomach. This results in damage… Continue Reading