Colic

The term ‘colic’ simply describes abdominal or belly pain. There are many causes of this pain and it is likely that most horses will have an episode of colic at some point in their life. One of the problems with colic is that it can be difficult for an owner to distinguish in the early stages the difference between mild or potentially fatal colic. For this reason, it is important that all cases of abdominal pain in a horse be taken seriously from the very beginning.

Equine Strangles

Strangles is a serious and highly contagious respiratory disease of horses and donkeys caused by the bacterium Streptococcus equi equi

. Strangles commonly affects foals and younger horses, however, horses of any age can be infected.

Foaling - Preparing for the big event

All you need to know for preparing your mare, from vaccinations, diet and location, to a full foaling guide and the signs that your mare may be having problems foaling. Last but not least some tips on caring for the new foal!

Hendra - Your Questions Answered

Hendra is a very serious virus that was first discovered in September 1994 during an outbreak that resulted in the deaths of twenty horses and a trainer in the Brisbane suburb of Hendra, Queensland. This fact sheet answers all your questions on this deadly virus.

How to give IM injections to a horse

Precautions to take, the areas on which to administer the injections and the procedure. Are great how-to guide for all intramuscular (IM) injections.

Laminitis

Laminitis, commonly called founder, is inflammation of the laminae of the foot. The inflammation and damage of laminae causes extreme pain and leads to instability of the coffin bone within the hoof. In severe cases, this instability leads to complete failure and separation of the laminae resulting in the coffin bone rotating downwards within the hoof wall. This process causes severe damage to the sole and extreme unrelenting pain for the affected horse.

Tetanus

Tetanus is an often fatal bacterial disease caused by a toxin produced by the organism Clostridium tetani. The bacteria is found in soil and droppings and is present all over the world. The bacterial spores can survive in the environment for long periods of time and although harmless in the ground, when bacteria enter the body through wounds in the skin, severe illness can occur. The tetanus bacteria do not need oxygen to survive so they multiply rapidly in the damaged tissues at the injury site.

Horses need Dentists too!

Interestingly, many of the dental diseases seen in humans are also diagnosed and treated in the horse! For this reason, most responsible horse owners understand the importance of regular dental care for their animals. Performance, comfort and wellbeing are all dependent upon a properly functioning and comfortable set of teeth. Regular and prophylactic dental care will guarantee your horses teeth are maintained in proper order and contribute to long lasting good health