“The risk this disease poses to human health is also very real with seven confirmed cases in people leading to four deaths. So, it’s important that the horse community remains vigilant in protecting both horses and people from Hendra,” she said.

Six horses were used for the study. All were in regular work and were not lame. They were ridden by each of four riders of differing weights: Light (L), Moderate (M), Heavy (H) and Very Heavy (VH).

In this class, we are evaluating four American Quarter horses. These horses are being identified as A, B, C and D. How would you place them? Scroll down below the pictures to see how we placed them and why.

The Foundation’s broad research agenda includes basic research as well as clinical studies that will ultimately impact physical and mental health and quality of life for those engaged in equine-assisted activities/therapies (EAA/T).

Lea went on to detail that field rest periods should be a minimum of one week, but that resting for two to three weeks is ideal. Field soil samples should be taken every 2 to 3 years and only the needed amendments applied, she said. However, nitrogen can be applied twice every fall without a soil test, at 60 to 80 pounds of urea per acre, she explained, but cautioned that no amount of fertilizer can make up for poor management. Though traditionally a mixture of tall fescue, Kentucky bluegrass, orchardgrass, white clover and some ryegrass is planted in September, farm owners can seed just ryegrass during much of the year to quickly fill in high-traffic areas for short-term cover.

Special needs horses find a loving and forever home at Tracy Acres Equine Sanctuary, located in Vacaville, California. Dean and Denise Tracy, who fulfilled their dreams by establishing their sanctuary, rescue horses that often have come from a life of abuse and neglect. Most have arrived in poor condition—some blind, others starved with ribs protruding, while still others with complex medical conditions.

Along with heart rate (pulse) and respiratory rate, rectal temperature is one of the “vital signs” that can alert us to the presence of disease. Ideally temperature should be measured regularly – both to get the horse used to the procedure and to establish what is normal for that individual.