Horses

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.

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

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

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.

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

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

To avoid collisions in the warm-up area, riders are expected to follow a set of internationally accepted regulations. Dr Mac takes a closer look at these.

While glanders is no longer present in South Africa, it is still found in other regions and can be brought back into the country through the importation of equines, says Dr Mac.

This joint disease is common in rapidly growing, large-breed foals, and is linked to diet, says Dr Mac. Treatment includes exercise restriction and stable rest.

Curb bits are used in Western and English riding disciplines, but the action of the curb bit is very different to the action of the commonly used snaffle, says Dr Mac.

Aflatoxins can cause severe liver damage and may result in death, says Dr Mac. As such, proper feed storage is crucial.

Horses are much used in South Africa. Equestrian disciplines are popular, and both horses and donkeys are still utilised as working animals on farms and in townships. Despite this, many horse owners are unaware of the importance of a properly fitted bridle. Vicki Sokolich, an equine complementary care expert, explains that a poorly fitting bridle can result in significant damage to the physiology of the animal.