Tying up, also known as exertional rhabdomyolysis or ER, is one of the most common causes of poor performance in horses. It usually happens suddenly after an episode of hard work. ER occurs when there is not enough blood flow to the muscles during exercise. The muscle cells don’t get enough oxygen and begin to build up toxins.

Most people wouldn’t buy a used car without first having a knowledgeable person take a look under the hood. So, why should buying a horse be any different? Of course, there are many obvious differences between horses and cars, but the principle is the same: know what you are buying. It can be devastating when a horse is purchased with high hopes of a long pleasure or performance career, only to find a potentially debilitating problem after the purchase has been made.

Heaves, also known as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease or COPD, is an inflammatory condition of the lungs. It is a common respiratory disease that develops in older horses (greater than 7 years old). It is characterized by bronchospasm, excess mucus production, and changes in the bronchiolar walls (airways in the lungs).

Strangles is a highly contagious bacterial disease caused by Streptococcus equi. It is spread by direct contact with infected horses or carriers. The disease can also be transmitted via contaminated water troughs/buckets, feed bunks/buckets, stalls, tack, trailers, and people. It usually affects young horses but can afflict animals of any age. Horses in high-density management systems (i.e. breeding farms) and those in high traffic areas such as shows and events are at higher risk of being exposed and infected by S. equi. There are however, many steps horse owners can take to protect their horse from the disease.

The most common clinical signs of Cushing’s is an excessively long hair coat, which often fails to shed out in the warmer months. Other clinical signs include: weight loss, lethargy or poor performance, laminitis, increased water intake and urination, increased sweating, and mares may fail to cycle. The onset of these clinical signs is usually gradual over a year or more, but can also develop rapidly.

The clinical signs of anhidrosis include partial or complete absence of sweating, an increased/rapid respiratory rate, dry skin and coat, lethargy, poor performance, hair loss, decreased appetite, decreased water intake, and fever (up to 105° Fahrenheit). The clinical signs may be gradual or may be noticed suddenly by an owner or trainer.

Most people have thought about an emergency plan for their families in the event of a crisis or natural disaster. But what about a plan for your horses?

Cryptorchidism refers to the failure of one or both testes to descend into the scrotum. It is a fairly common developmental problem affecting horses.

Signs of blister beetle poisoning include abdominal pain (colic), loss of appetite, fever, sweating, rapid breathing, diarrhea, splashing and submerging the muzzle repeatedly in water, increased drinking, and urinating small amounts frequently.  If you suspect your horse has blister beetle poisoning, CONTACT YOUR VETERINARIAN IMMEDIATELTY!