Hoof Matters - concentrating on the foot rather than the shoe

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In 1889, for the fourth edition of his book “The Racehorse in Training with Hints on Racing and Racing Reforms”, the English jockey turned horse trainer William Day added a chapter on shoeing, his preface stating “…one topic, highly important to all owners of horses, ‘Shoeing’…might advantageously be added…the aim to deal with facts and to avoid speculation.” Day wraps up by adding that he hopes “it will be found…that the best method of shoeing and of the treatment of the foot has been not only discussed but actually verified… that the prevention which, in the diseases of the feet…is better than cure and has been placed nearer the reach of all.” If only.

Caton Bredar (European Trainer - issue 20 - Winter 2007)

 
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Tooth Trouble - why regular dentist visits are essential for racehorses

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The mouth of a Thoroughbred is the principle means of communication between the horse and his rider. Other aids are used as well, but for many, the bit is what determines direction, rate of speed and position or frame in which the horse moves. The design and function of the horse’s mouth is such that it provides a perfect vehicle for use as a “steering device.” The interdental space allows a bit to lie comfortably without interfering with the normal position of the jaws when they close. Horses are the only domestic animals that have their mouths used in this fashion.

Kimberly French (European Trainer - issue 20 - November 2007)

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Hoof Matters - concentrating on the foot rather than the shoe

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In 1889, for the fourth edition of his book “The Racehorse in Training with Hints on Racing and Racing Reforms”, the English jockey turned horse trainer William Day added a chapter on shoeing, his preface stating one topic, highly important to all owners of horses, might advantageously be added…the aim to deal with facts and to avoid speculation.
Caton Bredar (01 October 2007 - Issue Number: 5)

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''Jarred Up'' horses - observations by a racecourse farrier

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At the height of the flat racing season how many different terms are used to describe horses that lose their action? The description depends very much upon those that are explaining the condition and what is perceived to be the cause and the effect; the animal simply becomes scratchy and non free flowing in its movements. The exciting cause reveals itself as being “JARRED UP.” At this early stage no observable foot specific secondary condition is presented.

Peter Baker (European Trainer - issue 19 - Autumn 2007)

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Current research on Pelvic Asymmetry in Racehorses

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Steeplechase racing in particular is a high risk sport for the horse. There is currently some fairly extensive research into racehorse injuries and fatalities on the racecourse, with previously published scientific reports on the subject being widely available.

Nicole Rossa (European Trainer - issue 19 - Autumn 2007)

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The Equine Heart - Anatomy, Function and Performance

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Exciting new advances in ultrasound image technology have provided a better understanding of both the anatomy and function of the heart at rest and during exercise. In the last 30 years many veterinary clinics and universities with equine departments that study equine physiology are able to study the heart of the equine athlete in their own sports performance laboratories, while exercising on a high-speed treadmill.

Robert Keck (European Trainer - issue 19 - Autumn 2007)

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Racing power - supporting muscular effort through nutrition

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The powerhouse for a horse in training is found in its large muscle mass. Whilst genetic makeup within the Thoroughbred breed has a large impact on a horse’s innate racing ability, dietary factors will also influence subsequent performance.

Dr Catherine Dunnett (European Trainer - issue 19 - Autumn 2007)

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Nasal Strips - increasing performance, reducing EIPH

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Nasal strips’ future in Thoroughbred racing seemed limitless in the fall of 1999. Just two weeks after longshot Burrito won a race at Keeneland wearing one, 29 of the 101 horses competing in the 1999 Breeders’ Cup at Gulfstream Park November 6th had the 4-by-6-inch strip affixed 1.5 inches above their nostrils. 

Bill Heller (European Trainer - issue 18 - Summer 2007)

 

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Nutritional ergogenic aids for horses

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No doubt we are all aware of the plethora of dietary supplements that are now available and that are promoted as offering clear and profound benefits to our horses’ health, general well being and performance. In the latter category are the so-called ergogenic aids. So what are they, and do they work?

Dr Catherine Dunnett (European Trainer - issue 18 - Summer 2007)

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Equine Exercise Physiology - understanding basic terminology and concepts

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Anaerobic work is performed at heart rates above 150 BPM and involves explosive power such as short sprints, acceleration, and fast galloping. A Quarter Horse running 2 furlongs would be deriving energy 60% anaerobically and 40% aerobically.

Robert Keck (European Trainer - issue 18 - Winter 2007)

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California Horse Racing Board explain their drug testing procedures

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The rules of racing are intended to maintain a level playing field; any drug testing program is meant to monitor compliance to those rules. In reality, drug testing is a deterrent. For truly illicit activity where the intent is to take an unfair advantage (cheat), the current program in California is working well. But we know it isn't perfect. We are always looking for holes in the system and ways to improve the program.
Rick M. Arthur, DVM, - (01 July 2007 - Issue Number: 4)

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Is no matter more pressing than international rules on medication?

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There is a need for several changes and improvements in international racing. None can be more pressing that the issue on international regulations on the use of medication. Both on and off the tracks.

Geir Stabell (19 May 2007 - Issue Number: 3)

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The importance of worming - keeping parasites under control

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The use of homespun and herbal remedies may have been superseded by wormers formulated after lengthy research programmes, but the control of worms in the horse remains as important for horsemen today as it was when the significance of these unwanted passengers was first understood.
Dr Philip K Dyson BVMS Cert. EM and Barry Sangster BVMS MRCVS (19 May 2007)

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Shockwave Therapy - uncovering new treatments

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Equine researchers are still uncovering everything shockwave therapy can do for horses after it was initially and successfully used in Germany in 1996 to treat lameness.

Bill Heller (European Trainer - issue 17 - Spring 2007)

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Nutritional Support for bone - maintaining a strong skeleton

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The expression ‘no foot no horse’ should perhaps be extended to cover all the bones of the skeleton, for as far as racehorses are concerned, without strength and durability in this area a trainer’s job is fraught with difficulties.

Dr Catherine Dunnett (European Trainer - issue 16 - Winter 2006)

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Bones of contention - how to maintain a strong skeleton

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The expression no foot no horse’ should perhaps be extended to cover all the bones of the skeleton, for as far as racehorses are concerned, without strength and durability in this area a trainer’s job is fraught with difficulties. The number of training days lost to lameness in a season is testament to this. A racehorse diet should help to maintain the skeletal system during rigorous training. This task is no doubt easier when the skeletal foundations have been firmly laid in utero and during the rapid growing phase.

Dr Catherine Dunnet (19 October 2006 - Issue Number: 2)

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Dermatologic conditions that affect thoroughbred racehorses

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Horses are similar to many other species with the skin being the largest organ in the body. This is based on overall organ size; just think about the total surface area of a 600 kg horse!; The good news is that it can be easily evaluated by visual inspection and palpation. Specific tasks for equine skin include protection from trauma, thermoregulation (temperature control; sweating and heat conservation), sensory perception, secretory function and pigmentation. In addition, it is important to recognize that skin is an important indicator of systemic health since disorders of the skin may actually indicate systemic ill health.
Elizabeth G. Davis, DVM, PhD, DACVIM, Kansas State University (16 October 2006)

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Immunostimulants and their role as an alternative to vaccines

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What is immunomodulation?  By definition this simply means that we modify the natural immune response.  This can occur in one of two ways, either by boosting the response with immunostimulants or suppressing the response with medications like corticosteroids.  Currently immunostimulation has become a more widely discussed method of managing horses suffering from infectious disease.

Elizabeth Davis, DVM, PhD, Dip. ACVIM (19 September 2006)

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Osteochondritis dissecans - the development, causes and treatments of OCD

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One of the most common orthopedic problems encountered in young horses is osteochondritis dissecans (OCD).  This is of particular concern in the Thoroughbred industry, where horses are often bought and sold before maturation is complete and are expected to perform starting at a relatively young age.  There are many common sources of confusion surrounding this disease.  Deborah Spike-Pierce, DVM discusses research into the development, causes and treatment of OCD.

Deborah Spike-Pierce, DVM (13 October 2006 - Issue Number: 1)

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Reiki - Paul Peacock discovers the ancient Japanese healing method.

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A fast growing treatment for racehorses is Reiki, an ancient Japanese healing methodology which is said to date back over 2000 years, but was actually ‘discovered’ by a monk in Victorian times.

Paul Peacock (European Trainer - issue 15 - Winter 2006)

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