Horses

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

Angular limb deformities in foals

Angular limb deformities can be treated in various ways, depending on the severity of the deformity, says Dr Mac.

Signs your mare is going to foal

While mares generally gestate for 11 months, this may vary. With this in mind, you should be on the lookout for signs that your mare is close to foaling, says Dr Mac.

Choosing the best time to breed your mare

There are pros and cons to breeding your mare at different times of the year, says Dr Mac.

Be wary of the lantana

The consumption of the lantana bush can result in severe liver failure and death, warns Dr Mac.

Understanding immune-mediated myositis

This recently described syndrome, which affects mainly American Quarter Horses, can be confirmed using genetic tests, says Dr Mac.

Using treats to train horses

There are various methods used to train horses, but the use of treats remains controversial, says Dr Mac.

A new approach to facial nerve paralysis

Electro-acupuncture is now being used as a therapeutic aid to assist in facial nerve regeneration. Dr Mac takes a closer look at the technique.

Feed and water requirements for horses

You need to plan your horse’s diet during the dry months to prevent digestion issues, says Dr Mac.

Be on the lookout for piroplasmosis!

Transmitted mainly by red-legged ticks, this disease is endemic in horses, donkeys, moles and zebra, says Dr Mac.

African Horse Sickness: the great vaccine debate

African horse sickness is endemic to Southern Africa, and the disease is often fatal. As it is caused by a virus, there is no treatment, and horse owners have to rely on vaccination to prevent the disease. However, many horse owners are vaccinating with an unregistered vaccine, which is presenting major problems. Dr Camilla Weyer spoke to Janine Ryan.

Twin foals are not a good idea!

About 80% of twin foals are aborted by the eighth month of pregnancy, sometimes with negative consequences for the mare, says Dr Mac.

Strict selection criteria are vital to Boerperd breeding

This popular indigenous breed is a hardy and muscular all-rounder that excels in many equestrian sports, says Dr Mac.

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