Horses

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

The rules of etiquette in the warm-up arena at a show

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.

Glanders: what you should know

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.
Rapidly growing foals are susceptible to epiphysitis.

How to treat epiphysitis

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.
Pelham bit

Understanding curb bits

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 poisoning

Preventing aflatoxin poisoning

Aflatoxins can cause severe liver damage and may result in death, says Dr Mac. As such, proper feed storage is crucial.
Bridles: ensuring the right fit

How to properly fit a bridle on your horse and donkey

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.
sever swelling on horse's knee

Don’t take chances: call your vet!

If your horse has any physical injury, get your veterinarian to come out and examine it. Diagnosing an injury is not always as straightforward as it may seem, cautions Dr Mac.
Horse stung by a wasp

Watch out for wasps in the stable

These aggressive insects can cause painful stings in humans and horses. Dr Mac provides some useful tips on treating your horse if it gets stung.

Working equitation: a new equestrian discipline in SA

The skills learnt in working equitation teach riders and horses the basics of competition, as well as how to sort out cattle in the veld on horseback, says Dr Mac.

How to treat your horse’s wounds

Horses are prone to injury, and all horse owners or carers should therefore know how to clean and disinfect a wound, says Dr Mac.
donkey

The care unit that treats neglected horses and donkeys

The Highveld Horse Care Unit cares for neglected equines. Farryn Day of the unit says that a lack of education is the main reason for the mistreatment of these animals.
Anthia beetle

Dealing with Anthia beetles in your paddocks

The Anthia beetle squirts a highly irritant fluid into the eyes of animals. This substance can cause redness, inflammation and swelling. Dr Mac explains how to manage these insects on your farm.

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