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Farmer’s Weekly brings you the latest horse farming news and updates from South Africa and the rest of Africa.

Don’t horse about when it comes to being COVID-positive

This remains a notifiable disease but the lockdown no longer exists. Although it is not much more severe then a common cold, make sure you have contingency plans in place should you need someone else to take care of your horses, says Dr Mac.

Global warming and heat stress in horses

The maximum daily temperatures are climbing globally, and stable management approaches may have to be changed, says Dr Mac.

Blood tests: a quick, accurate guide to your horse’s health

Why do veterinarians take blood tests from a horse and what are they looking for? Dr Mac explains the basics of this crucial diagnostic tool.

How does a horse regulate its body temperature ?

Dr Mac explains how a horse uses thermoregulation to deal with changes in air temperature and to cope with vigorous exercise.

Boerperd breeder sets her sights ever higher

Liezelle Whitehead, award-winning SA Boerperd breeder from the eastern Free State, believes the Boerperd has a bright future as probably the most multi-purpose horse in the country. She describes the Boerperd as a genetic treasure trove in the equine world. Annelie Coleman reports.

The importance of routine in horse care

Fitting your riding times into a daily pattern with stable mates may help to establish an ordered way of life for your horse, writes Dr Mac.

Where have all the horse vets gone?

Faced with an emergency with one of her own horses, Dr Mac experienced South Africa’s shortage of equine veterinarians for herself.

Why horses and donkeys still have a place in agriculture

No fuel or batteries required! With the world seeking to go green in the face of climate change, equids such as horses, donkeys and mules might just be the next big thing in farming.

Length of hind hooves can influence soundness in horses

The contribution of the hind hooves to overall soundness, neglected until now, has been highlighted in a new study.

Removal of waste in stables

With its implications for health, waste removal is a key aspect of management. It requires proper planning and a well-designed system that allow the task to be done quickly and efficiently, says Dr Mac.

The pre-purchase veterinary examination

Before you buy a horse, ask your veterinarian to give it a thorough examination, advises Dr Mac.

Identifying and treating chronic lower-back pain in horses

It is important to be able to recognise the source of back pain in a horse in order to treat and manage it successfully, says Dr Mac.

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