The detection of asymptomatic bird flu infections in horses marks a new frontier in viral spillover risks, highlighting the urgent need for monitoring and measures to prevent cross-species transmission. A new study has revealed that horses in Asia have been infected with H5N1 avian influenza, commonly known as bird flu, with these infections occurring undetected.

While equine herpesvirus (EHV) is typically associated with respiratory illness in young equine athletes, it can also have devastating consequences for breeding operations. As foaling season approaches, it’s important for horse owners to understand the risks EHV poses to broodmares. Dr. Tracey Chenier, an associate professor of theriogenology at the Ontario Veterinary College, provides insights on the prevalence of the virus and strategies breeders can use to protect their mares.

In Canada, professionals who offer equine massage, equine chiropractic, farriery, and equine homeopathy who are not veterinarians may unintentionally be practicing veterinary medicine, which could be against provincial laws. There is a lack of oversight due to few regulations governing the training, certification, and qualifications of these types of service providers. Moreover, provincial veterinary associations typically only intervene when a complaint is filed by a horse owner. As a result, individuals can easily market themselves as qualified to offer these services, even without the necessary expertise, leaving vulnerable horse owners to "learn the hard way" when choosing a provider.

Vitamin E deficiency can lead to distinct health conditions; Shivers can occur in the front limbs, but only if the hind legs are also affected; A horse’s brain weighs 1.5 pounds, but is still one of the largest brains among land mammals...