Melanomas: Skin Cancer in Horses
Melanomas are malignant tumors comprised of abnormal melanocytes, cells that produce the pigment melanin that tints the skin. In horses, melanomas are slow growing and locally invasive. They usually …
Equine Articles
Laryngeal Hemiplegia (Roaring)
“Roaring” is a term used to describe the observed respiratory symptoms in a horse afflicted by the medical condition called laryngeal hemiplegia. Somewhat rare, it affects mainly thoroughbreds and …
Lameness – Navicular Syndrome
Navicular Syndrome (NS) is a cause of incurable lameness in mainly the front feet of horses that are predisposed and subjected to extreme exercise and burdensome work. Middle aged …
read more Keratoma of the Foot
Keratomas are locally invasive (non-spreading) tumors comprised of keratin, the primary substance making up the hard wall of the hoof. They are located between the coffin bone (3rd phalanx) …
Injuries of the Eyes
Horses have prominent eyes that are susceptible to injury. Tree branches, hay stalks, and other foreign bodies may scratch or lacerate the cornea leading to infection and ulceration. If …
Heaves: Recurrent Airway Obstruction in Horses
“Heaves” is the common name historically given for chronic obstructive pulmonary disease in horses. It is characterized by lethargy and exercise intolerance, coughing and gagging, blood-tinged mucoid discharge from …
Geriatric Care and Considerations
Thanks to advances in equine veterinary knowledge, technological improvements from the industry, and diligence on the part of horse owners when it comes to good management practices, domestic horses …
Foaling a Mare
Foaling is the process of giving birth to a baby horse. The broodmare carries the foal for about 11 months from conception (fertilization) to delivery. This time period is …
External Parasites of Horses
There are so many “bugs” that parasitize the skin of horses, it’s difficult to name them all in one attempt; however, they can be categorized into several different groups …
Equine Respiratory Herpesvirus Infections (Viral Rhinopneumonitis, “Rhino”)
What is Viral Rhinopneumonitis, or “Rhino”? Equine herpesvirus type 1 (EHV-1) and type 4 (EHV-4) are highly contagious pathogens responsible for a variety of symptoms in horses including mild …