There is also a change in the angle of the chewing surface which reduces the force of chewing. Although not investigated in horses, ageing can result in decrease in stomach acid production and pancreatic digestive enzyme activity. Older horses also often have reduced numbers and diversity of microorganisms in their intestinal tract.

The overall goal of the research—in terms of racing—is to determine what drugs can be detected in a horse, and for how long those drugs stay in a horse’s system. Those results help develop analytical assays that become part of the routine drug screen of all racehorses.

This suggests that, whether diagnosed with insulin dysregulation or not, older horses need an appropriate diet and management plan to help minimize the risks associated with insulin dysregulation, such as laminitis.

All other drug tests for a respective class are randomly predetermined before draws are assigned. When entries are received, months before a show, a computer program randomly selects draw numbers from the list of entry numbers. This is done in an effort to remain impartial and to protect exhibitors.

#1- Ensure your horse is receiving a sufficient amount and appropriate quality of forage, whether it is pasture or hay. Though alfalfa (lucerne) and other legume forages are not appropriate for all horses, some horsemen and horsewomen believe that the rich protein content of these forages helps add bloom to a horse’s coat.

For less than the cost of one riding lesson, students will spend three weeks learning new things they will find useful when thinking about why horses act the way they do.  Over 95% of the past participants have said the course was enjoyable and informative and most say they will make changes regarding how they work around horses.  Changes like being more aware of blind spots in horses, properly releasing a horse into a paddock and improving barn fire prevention.

“With all of the rain the region has experienced and with mosquito season now in full swing, it is important that horse owners are being proactive and vaccinating their equines against mosquito-borne diseases,” said Maryland State Veterinarian Michael Radebaugh.

Gene doping involves the transfer or modification of genes or genetically modified cells of healthy human athletes, as well as equine athletes, for non-therapeutic purpose to enhance athletic performance.

The dreaded sand. Sand can be irritating to your horse’s intestinal lining, and cause colic. Be extra careful to not let your horse overgraze on pastures rich in sandy soil and avoid feeding hay or grain on the ground.