Horses

A five-star rating system being implemented by Erica Stud is taking the SA Boerperd into the future. George Nefdt, owner of the stud in KwaZulu-Natal, tells Sabrina Dean why he believes the breed to be the perfect companion or competition horse.

The world reflected through the eye of a horse is at the centre of the ethos of a boutique racehorse stud set in the Breede Valley in the Western Cape. Sabrina Dean spoke to John Köster to find out how Klawervlei Stud has added value to the Thoroughbred studbook over the years.

Whether they’re a general nuisance or disease carriers, it’s essential that flies are controlled throughout their life cycle.

While most horse owners agree that it’s a good idea for riding horses to be examined by a dentist at least once a year, the need for bit seating depends on the type of riding, says Dr Mac.

Breeders and riding schools need to explore innovative ways to generate income in order to ensure their survival, says Dr Mac.

Recent research reveals emerging anthelminthic resistance in equines and intenstinal parasite mutation, says Dr Mac.

Don’t be mistaken: the South African Miniature Horse is not a toy breed but a well-balanced, hardy animal, and if all reference to size were eliminated, would have the same conformational proportions than other full-sized light breeds.

Recent research has found evidence of bone and tissue damage in parade horses wearing nosebands, says Dr Mac.

Horses are herbivores and can survive on natural grazing, but what about the water?

Sidebone is the ossification of the collateral cartilages. It is found mainly in the hooves of heavy Warmbloods, writes Dr Mac.

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

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.