Managing high nitrate levels in paddocks
High nitrate levels acidify the soil, leading to an abundance of weeds. Dr Mac explains how to manage this, and prevent it from occurring.
SA’s cannabis legislation and horses
Remedies derived from cannabis have been used to treat injury in horses since the days of Alexander the Great. But what effect does marijuana have on horses? Dr Mac explains.
How to build a horse crush
The routine handling of horses is simplified if you own a crush pen, says Dr Mac.
Equine hydrotherapy for leg injuries
Spa therapy is now easily available in South Africa to treat injuries in sport horses, says Dr Mac.
Fitting a McClellan saddle
This American cavalry saddle has been in use for 159 years. It was employed in the American Civil war and the Second Anglo-Boer War, and is still used for stock horses, says Dr Mac.
White horses and black bulls
Camargue horses are used to manage the feral black cattle herds in the salty marshes of the Rhône River Delta as it enters the Mediterranean Sea, says Dr Mac.
Lipizzaner stallions in South Africa
Lipizzaners, well known for their high-level dressage displays, originated more than four centuries ago. However, the breed continues to amaze, says Dr Mac.
Treating nosebleeds in horses
Horses that suffer from pouring nosebleeds after exercise should be examined by a vet, says Dr Mac.
Why arthritis treatments are controversial
There are various treatments available for equine osteoarthritis. However, these are mainly palliative and do not promote healing, says Dr Mac.
Inherited night blindness
Reduced vision at night and a reluctance to enter dark stables in the daytime may be associated with night blindness, says Dr Mac.
Severing the umbilical cord
As a rule, you should avoid tying off the umbilical cord after birth. However, if very heavy bleeding occurs, it’s time to act, advises Dr Mac.
Meconium retention in foals
About 2% of foals are unable to expel the meconium within the first 24 hours after birth, warns Dr Mac.
