Equine Times May 2021

May 2021

Serving the Michigan, Indiana & Ohio Tri-State Horse Community

CLUB NEWS

Association Michigan MichiganFox Fox Trotter Trotter Association

can either choose for the included a competition the Groundwork to Obtain Better most ambitious member who PROTECT YOUR LARGE BALE HAY INVE$TMENT! Gait session (limited to 4 people) demonstrates their horsemanship or theinWhy Won't My Gaited Horse skills a wide variety of categories.

Gait session(4 person limit).

Sign Quarterly and year-end awards up willfor be one only, then audit the other for free. given. Go to www.michiganfoxtrotters.com During lunch youand canprint ask Clinician Coy questions to read the rules off the forms to join in on about WD that will include the training pyramid, legal the friendly competition and fun. equipment, attire, tests and upcoming shows.

The late More Fox Trotters are slowly becoming available to morning and afternoon will bring semi-private lessons to purchase but they are selling fast. There is a good video on the original eightTrot withgait Joanne.

Again, only eight riders the correct Fox posted on our Face Book sitewill to be accepted to this clinic.

There will be plenty of socially refer to when you are considering an MFT to buy. Be sure distanced spots($25) available.

Bring your to bring a auditor knowledgeable person with you,too, whenchair you and lunch.

It will be a wonderful day of education.

Two of narrow down your search. Breeders, Chuck Fanslow (rivour members have already excelled under Joanne's instrucerflatranch.com) and Gale Gunders (989-534-1207), have tion on their Trotters.

Go to well-gaited youngFox stock available.You Theycan alsotoo!! have quality Michiganfoxtrotters.com to print off the registration form studs to breed to if you have a mare you want bred. Chuck and flyer. has a Buckskin stallion and a palomino stallion(both sons Congratulations go out to Chuck Fanslow of Gladwin, of Cotton Eyed Joe). Gale has a spotted stallion who will MI on the birth of his latest palomino colt. This one will throw color to your foal. Both are located in Gladwin,MI. go fast! Better give Chuck a call at 989435-9224 right x 78” 76” Contact them if you wantDimensions: to have your72” mare bred.x There away! Gale Gunders (989-534-1207) also in Gladwin, has a

Weight: 230 lbs.

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Wethe have resources and of people available for youwill to learn couple of other nice ones available, too.

They all be is nothing like expectation a well-bred foal! from and breeders to refer you to if you want to very Don't well-gaited.

Kelly Clevenger recently increased forget to transfer your has newly-bought horse's buy a young one to train or if you want to further her herd.... papers she brought a sorrel yearling gelding registration into yourup name with the MFTHBA,too. the training with your present horse.

(Roxie's Traveler), barn name-Traveler, from We areTime growing!

New member welcomes go out to The MFTHBA needs registered members Missouri.

Naomi Haas, equinetodentist Kris Modreske and Harry fill their committees for 2021. I just agreed Congratulations new addition, Struble all of MI. on Naomi rides athe sorrel sabino gelding to your help out on Trail Kelly!!

Committee again.

More congratulations go out to Jodi Myers and Rader's (Dexter) and a blackSurely mare (Hank's Serenity Liberty Bell you can,too!

Various committees need members(younger ones Point too) for input Top Secret Spya for attaining 2020gelding High in their Region 8 B). Kris rides black and white (Radar's Spotted and advice togoincrease in the Fox Trot America Program!

Prior).

And congratulations out toaffiliate Harrynumbers,think Struble on of to make the shows better,to improve and earned a ways handy customized embroidered bridle his They purchase of Joe's Golden Chip, a handsome buckskin okay National Trail Ride applications,give ideas on bag for their From the MFTHBA: gelding, from efforts!

Chuck Fanslow.

All these memclinics (let's get more closer to our state),getting more ver“Breeders interested in completing DNA bers are riding quality Trotters!!! satility riders interested,give ideas on training and Fox picking judges, plus testing on their foals at the time of New members are always welmore. Many positions can be supported remotely. Also, this is a great registration will be able to purcome!

Go to www.michiganfoxway to meet those from other areas of the USA who raise,train and chase registration/DNA kit trotters.com print not off have the ride MFTs. I have made new friends thisaway whotoI would combo this year.

When regotherwise. Contact the MO Fox Trotting Horse Breeding Association membership form. We meet istering six months via www.mfthba.com to become a member andaforfoal information virtually somore all members on helping out. or younger, individuals are able to meet without Also, PLEASE send in your MFTA may dues purchase and your MFTHBA a combinahaving to drive long dues disasap! tion package for just tances.

Wishing everyone a blessed and safe Christmas! $60.”

Go to www.mfthOur Event Committee Respectfully submitted, ba.com for more informais busy planning next Marilynthe Mannino tion. clinic. It will be a Gaited All 14Dressage MFTA Versatility Western Clinic at competitors are busily riding the end of May. More details and training their Fox Trotters will be available in anext variety of ways.

They are month.

The clinician is ground training, driving, jumping, top-notch! trail riding, camping, showing SLIDING ORhistory SWINGING DOORS A little on our breed: and Thetrying presdifferent things.

If you would like to be included in this ent-day Missouri Fox Trotter evolved from Morgans in valuable program in the Not Under or Under Saddle New England being crossed withSaddle Arabians, Plantation divisions Ultimate Horseman's Challenge go to Horses, or American Saddlebreds, TWHscategory, and pacing michiganfoxtrotters.com to read the rules and print off Standardbreds. The genetic mix of square-trotting horses the needed forms.

Your horse and you will become motiand pacing horses created the comfortable fox trot gait! vated to learn so manyhorses new things!

Missouri Fox Trotting have been used by farmers in New members are very join anddistances learn more Missouri and surrounding welcome states to to ride long to about this wonderful breed and all that they can check their fencing and work cows, pull buggies,do. byThe US membership form is found on our website.

We meet virtuForest Service workers, by mounted police and now people ally each month during the week (the weekends are for across the United States and Europe use them for recreriding and having fun with our horses). We are an ambiation (showing, trail riding, Dressage,reining, 4H and tious group with an experienced President who has skillEquestrian Team, Hippotherapy,etc.). They are truly fully helped us work together to improve our association. versatile and also can be found in all colors and sizes! Try You will find us friendly and helpful and always willing to one out and find out why everyone loves them so! entertain new ideas and try new things.

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Hello December! Time is sure flying!!

Mannino Marilyn At our November meeting we elected some new officers for 2021. Congratulations go out This month we are isproud a Gaited Horse Hello April! Spring upontous!host People are out Fox to Bob Howell elected as the new MFTA PresWestern Dressage clinic with talented and personable Trotting and enjoying the weather.

Many are accumulatident, Kathy Kruch is now VP, Marilyn is still Joanne CoyinMay 29thOstrom at Pine Lake 12300 Pine ing points the Char Versatility that we are offerSecretary/Treasurer, isChallenges the new Stables, Lake Road, Plainwell, MI. Joanne is a licensed USEF “R” ing.

2-year Director and Miranda Mannino is now Western Registration the 1-year Director. is still open for all three Versatility We are accepting membership Dressage(WD) arenewals USDF Not “L” graduate.

She Challenges (UnderJudge Saddleand Challenge, Under Saddle and new the memberships for 2021 now. Youth Challenge). are judged WDUltimate Florida Challenge and Horseman This proencouraged to 2017 join too! to WDAA www.michiganfoxFinals in and the World Show in 2019. Fox She gram is designed to Go show how versatile the Missouri trotters.com to print off the form.

You will learn alot has co-taught the Trotter is. Registered and grade MFTs are allowed. from our members about the history of Fox Trotters,their Judge Apprentice Programyouth for WDAA in All through useshandicapped and availability and and regular be able to network with those of us who 2017 & 2018.

Joanne is a USDF adults are welcome.

Every imaginable camp,train and show them. Our association is blessed to have skilled Bronzeand Medalist andisto finished in We love promoting this activity category included trainers,breeders and a farrier learn from. the Top Ten of the 2020 WD World from in they hand work Dressage, so versatile and come in breed as have greatto personalities,are Championship Show for many sizes and different coat colors. short distance trail WDAA riding toA benefit to joining is that we can offer clinics at a reduced price to Second Level.

She has given endurance competitions and our members. Due to Covid we are meeting remotely month. clinics around theeach country inMichigan is a big state and this is a everything in-between (cow good way to easily see andWestern talk with each other within and outside of both English and work, driving, extreme trail, MI. Come join the fun!

Dressage as onshowing, ground4H andas well open Sign up now for the popular Versatility Challenge for 2021. Print work and general horsemanparades, reining, form trailfrom mainteoff the enrollment our website. There are may areas in ship.

Inand the accumulate morning, riders nance We also which you can more!). points-even in the non-rideable months.

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May 2021 April

December 2020

Equine Times

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Equestrian News interested in auditing should check with the club nearer to the event to see if it is still possible. Go to www.iea10.wildapricot. org/ for more information.

Round Up

the IHCF website at www.indianahorsec- lunch, and networking, and 1 to 3 p.m., session 2 presentations and visit additional ouncilfoundation.org.

• Eric Estill, President of the Ohio equine displays on the Capital front lawn.

Horseman’s Council, Inc. announced the More information about this and other following changes Martinson, to OHC plans for early MHC activities are available on their webKrishona PhD 2021 due to the pandemic: 1-The 2021 site at www.michiganhorsecouncil.com and maple their Facebook OHC Winter Meeting scheduled Wilted for January (not fresh) leaves arepage. toxic to horses.

Horse FairtoNews 16-17 at the Deer Park StateHowever, Park is canhorses must eat 1.5 3 pounds of wilted maple leaves per 1,000 bodyweight • pounds These of horse fairs havetobeen cancelled, and 2-The 2021 OHC Spring General become leavesThe can2021 remain toxic Horse celledmaple for 2021: Michigan Membership Meeting scheduled for sick.

April Wilted for four theyLansing, aren’t generally believed to www.

Expo, MI, in early March, 13th will be postponed to a later date;weeks, they but retain toxicity the following spring.

Thus, illness norwill meet after the Covid-19 virus restric- MichiganHorseExpo.com; the 2021 mally visit occurs fall when normal fall occurs.

Midwest Horse Fair,leafMadison, WI, midtions are lifted. For more details thein the April, www.midwesthorsefair.com; the OHC website at www.ohconline.com.

Illness from maple leaves has only been reported • The Michigan HorseinCouncil plans 2021 Illinois Horse Fair, Springfield, IL, horses. Common signs after the first day of eating March behavior, 2021, www.illinoishorsefair.com/, another Equine Legislative Day on depressed leaves include tiredness, not eatand the 2021Signs Equine Affaire in Columbus, September 21, 2021. The aim of the event ing, and dark red/brown urine. may progress to (although they are on a virtuis to help build awareness about the eco-withOH, going down labored breathing andplanning increased nomic impact, community enrichment eventDon’t April cut 8-11, 2021), https://equineheart rate and before al death. down maple trees in horse pastures.

Instead, keep branches out of reach personal benefits of the Michigan horse affaire.com/events/ohio/. of horses aboveEquine their reach) Thetrimmed 2021 Indiana Roundup will industry. The tentative schedule is: 9 to(for 11 example, horsesbeout of at areas of wilted held the with C BaraClot Arena in Cloverdale, a.m., presentations (Session 1)and fromfence equine maple equine leaves. However, will 2. rarely IN, Aprilhorses 29-May Thechoose event towill offer leaders from a variety of Michigan ingest wilted maple leave unless very hungry. programs and various disciplines; 11 a.m. much for horse lovers to enjoy including to 1 p.m., equine activities, chuck wagon multiple vendors, clinicians, a beer garden,

Ask the Expert: Maple Leaf Toxicity

Horse Council News

Our horse pasture has several maples trees. I was told they are toxic to horses, but our horses seem fine. Are they toxic?

If they are, do we have to remove them from our pasture?

• The Indiana Horse Council Foundation, which is a separate organization from the old Indiana Horse Council, is going forward with plans for the Good Foundation Clinic and Horse Show to be held April 24-26, 2021, at the Hoosier Horse Park in Edinburgh, IN. For more information visit their website at www. indianahorsecouncilfoundation.org.

• Indiana Horse Council Foundation Scholarship applications are due by March 1, 2021. College students beginning or continuing Bachelor’s degree study and those pursuing professional studies or graduate work are eligible. Applicants must be residents of Indiana and may not currently be serving on the IHCF Board or Scholarship Committee. For more information go to

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Equine Times Equine Times

Page 93 Page

What you need to know about adopting a wild horse or burro Christine Skelly EAST LANSING, MI. — Wild mustangs should be adopted by experienced equestrians with access to supportive health care and training professionals.

Wild horses have secured a place in America’s Western Heritage. The Bureau of Land Management’s new incentives to adopt a wild horse or burro have attracted a great deal of attention from horse enthusiasts throughout the country. A thorough appreciation for the unique aspects of wild horse ownership is important to ensure that both the animal’s welfare and the prospective owner’s safety are protected. Michigan State University Extension equine specialist, Dr. Christine Skelly advises, “People considering wild horse adoption need to have a solid understanding of equine behavior, expertise in horse management, appropriate facilities, and access to capable industry professionals who are willing to work with wild horses.”

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Equine Times

Equestrian Experience Wild horses in the Western parts of the United States, also referred to as mustangs, and wild burros should be adopted by experienced equestrians that have owned and managed a variety of horses at different stages of training.

Taking a horse from the wild and introducing them to captivity requires strong observational skills, timely responses, and problem-solving capabilities. Riding a newly trained mustang will also require advanced horsemanship skills mixed with lots of patience and an openness to learn new techniques.

Facilities If you have the skills and horse background to adopt a wild horse, evaluate your horse facility’s suitability for wild equine. The Bureau of Land Management has minimum requirements for homing a mustang or burro which includes providing a corral that offers at least 400 square foot of space per animal. In essence, you can’t bring a wild horse home and confine

May 2021

it to a 12 x 12 foot horse stall! In addition, piped, wood planked, or meshed wire fencing needs to stand 6-foot-high for untrained adult horses. Electric, barbed wire, or high tensile fencing is not permitted as it poses a hazard to wild equine unaccustomed to confinement.

While shelter requirements are dependent on the unique climates of individual states, all equine should be provided protection from severe wind and precipitation as well as the ability to access shade.

If you are planning on maintaining your wild horse on pasture, you’ll need at least 2 acres per horse to support their nutritional needs during the grazing season without over stressing your land resource.

In addition, there are special requirements for hauling a wild horse from the adoption site, with stock trailers being preferred over horse trailers with dividers and feed bins.

Health Professionals It can be challenging to find local equine professionals who are willing to

What you need to know about adopting a wild horse or burro work with untrained wild equine.

Locating and establishing a good working relationship with an equine veterinarian and farrier before adopting a mustang or burro is essential for their welfare. While your wild horse may have received initial vaccinations prior to adoption, they will require a booster series 4-weeks upon arrival to your farm.

If your only intention is to let your mustangs roam free on pasture, they will still require annual vaccinations, parasite control, dental exams, and routine hoof trimming. If you adopt an adult mare, understand that she may be pregnant.

It’s nearly impossible to perform a pregnancy check on a wild equid and some new owners may end up with a two-forone package. You should be prepared for

the additional expenditures and time required to raise a newborn foal.

Training Wild horses (especially adults) may respond differently to traditional horse training methods when compared to domesticated horses. For this reason, many professional trainers are reluctant to work with untrained mustangs.

Finding a reputable trainer who specializes in wild horses can help you meet your equestrian goals and keep you and your horse safe along the way. Choose a trainer with an open-door policy during all training phases so that you can learn more about the nuances of working with your mustang.

Before You Own As previously mentioned, adopting a

wild horse or burro should only be considered by experienced equestrians who have secured professional resources. First time horse owners should purchase a horse whose temperament and training aligns more closely with their skill set and experience level. Remember that annual horse costs are usually greater than the initial purchase price. The University of Maine estimates the annual cost of owning a horse averages $3,800 which includes feed, health care, boarding or facility maintenance, and some training costs. You should only pursue bringing a new equid into your life after careful consideration of 1) your equestrian skills and aspirations, 2) your facilities and equine professional networks, and 3) your time and money resources.

The new Kentucky Derby glass? This cheeky cup honors the last-place horses Kirby Adams To the winner go the spoils but one Louisville horse lover says "let's not forget all those who fought hard but came up short."

Entrepreneur Mike Cecil is determined that last-place finishers at the Kentucky Derby get their due.

Cecil was deep in thought submerged in his favorite thinking spot — the bathtub — when he came up with the idea nearly 40 years ago.

"I was in between jobs and taking a bath and I was thinking about my next move," he said. "That's when I got the idea for a plastic, unbreakable cup paying tribute to the loveable last-place finishers from the big race."

Once he toweled dry, Cecil made a rough draft of the cup's artwork — horses showing their backside as they went around the first turn.

Since that day, he's produced The Unofficial Cup commemorating every Kentucky Derby loser — the cup lists every horse bringing up the rear since pioneering Gold Mine in 1875.

Like the official collectible Kentucky Derby glassware which lists the winners, his 20-ounce plastic cups are updated each year. But instead of the winner, Cecil's cup lists the losers' names and the year of their disappointing Kentucky

Derby race.

Shoppe, Liquor Barn, Taste of He said some of the Kentucky Kentucky, Party Kits & Equestrian Derby losers went on to have great Gifts, Our Place Liquors, Wagner’s careers including Whitmore (2016), Pharmacy, Schreck's Baxter Liquors, Falling Sky (2013), Keyed Entry (2006), Beverage Liquors, Next Door Liquors, and Graeme Hall (2000).

Morris' Deli, Kern's Korner and Prospect Another notable horse listed on Party Center.

Cecil's cup is Burnt Cork, who strolled Cecil is quick to point out that his across the finish line in last place in the list is not a Hall of Lame, because any 1943 Kentucky Derby. The thorough- horse fast enough to earn a spot in the bred was owned by Edmund Lincoln legendary race has something to be Anderson (1905-1977), aka "Rochester," proud of — win, place, or lose.

"I have never included a horse who a comedian and former vaudeville performer who teamed with Jack Benny on was injured or didn't cross the finish line the radio in "The Jack Benny Program" due to some other reason," Cecil said. and in the television series, "The Jack "This has never been about making fun of any horse who has entered the Benny Show."

So, which horse finished last in the Kentucky Derby because even if he does 146th Kentucky Derby held last finish last, it’s the story of a lifetime.”

September? We'll give you a minute to put your thinking cap on. (Perhaps you should take a dip in the tub?)

No idea? It was South Bend and while we've yet to hear more about the final horse to the 2020 Kentucky Derby finish, his name will be forever remembered on The Unofficial Cup. "When I first went to liquor stores, hotels, and wholesalers peddling the idea of The Unofficial Cup, they laughed and placed their orders," Cecil said.

The inexpensive cups which cost about $1 are sold in stores like The The Unofficial Cup of Kentucky Derby Last Place Finishers. Photos by Mike Ceceil Kentucky Derby Museum, Cox's Spirit May 2021 Equine Times Page 5

When to Begin Spring Grazing Krishona Martinson It is tempting to turn horses out into

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Equine Times

spring pastures at the first sight of green grass, especially after a long winter. However, spring grazing should be introduced slowly and delayed until grasses reach 6 to 8 inches to optimize both the health of the horse and pasture. When horse pastures reach 6 to 8 inches, begin grazing for 15 minutes, increasing the grazing time each day by 15 minutes until 5 hours of consecutive grazing is reached. After that, unrestricted grazing can occur.

Why is this recommendation so important? Even though hay and pasture are both forms of forages, there are significant differences. Dried hay is approximately 15% moisture compared to fresh pasture that is 85% moisture.

The horse is a hind-gut, fermenting herbivore that relies extensively on the microbes present in its gastrointestinal tract to be able to process forages. The microbes are a mix of different organisms that work together to the benefit of the horse. If the feedstuffs the microbes are utilizing change suddenly, there may be too little time for the microbial populations to adjust to the change. Instead, large numbers of them die, while others flourish, setting up a situation where toxins may be absorbed by the horse, resulting in digestive dysfunction and possibly colic. A gradual change from one feedstuff to another May 2021

provides enough time for the microbial populations to adjust.

Additionally, pasture grasses need sufficient growth before grazing is allowed. Photosynthesis (the process of converting solar energy to chemical energy) occurs mainly within the leaves of plants. If the leaves are grazed too early (prior to 6 inches tall) or too often, plants can lose vigor, competitiveness, and root structure due to the lack of photosynthetic ability. This will lead to eventual die back and overgrazed areas being replaced by undesirable plant species or weeds. Grazing should cease when forages have been grazed down to 3 to 4 inches. At this time, move horses to another paddock or a dry lot. Grazing can resume when grasses regrow to 6 to 8 inches. On average, about 2 acres of well-managed pasture can provide the forage needs for one horse during the grazing season.

It is critical to slowly introduce horses to spring pastures. So, the following is worth repeating, when horse pastures reach 6 to 8 inches, begin grazing for 15 minutes, increasing the grazing time by 15 minutes each day until 5 hours of consecutive grazing is reached.

Following this recommendation will help ensure both horse and pasture health.

Tantilizing Homemade Horse Treats Taylor Fabus

EAST LANSING, MI. — Looking for a fun activity? Make your horse some of these delicious homemade horse treats. I am sure your horse will appreciate the effort!

Don’t forget moderation is important, so don’t give your horse too many treats in one day! Any abrupt change in a horse’s diet can cause problems, so be sure these are used as treats or rewards, not a meal.

Molasses Crunch Cookies Your horse will love the sweet crunchiness of these cookies. They keep well in an airtight container.

Prep time: 15 minutes Cook time: 10 minutes Ingredients: 1 ½ cup all-purpose flour 1 cup bran 1 cup molasses 1 cup grated carrot or apple Preparation: Preheat oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit and oil two cookie sheets. Put aside a small bowl of white sugar and a drinking glass with a flat bottom. In a large bowl, mix all the ingredients thoroughly. The mixture shouldn’t be too wet and should stick together. Add more flour to make the mixture firmer and hold together if necessary. Drop by the teaspoonful about 1 ½ inches apart on a greased cookie sheet. Grease the bottom of the glass, dip it in the sugar and stamp the cookies to flatten them slightly. Bake for about 10 minutes.

This recipe makes about 25 cookies,

depending on the size. Store in an airtight container or bag.

1 cup oat bran cereal or ground oatmeal ½ cup all-purpose flour

Apple Oat Squares Treat your horse or pony to these simple squares made of wholesome ingredients.

Keep them fresh in the fridge and remember not to feed too many of any treat too often.

Preparation: Preheat oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit and oil a 9 x 9 inch cake pan. Spread the batter evenly in the cake pan and bake for 20 - 30 minutes. The batter will start to shrink away from the sides and it will be firm to the touch. Slice the product into squares while still warm. Keep squares in the refrigerator in an airtight container or bag.

Enjoy making these delicious horse treat recipes!

Prep time: 10 minutes Cook time: 30 minutes Ingredients: 1 ½ cups unsweetened applesauce

Consistent nutrition and forage quality defends horses from digestive issues Dr. Tania Cubitt & Dr. Stephen Duren The horse has evolved as a grazing animal and forage continues to play a pivotal role in equine health. Horses are non-ruminant herbivores, also known as “hindgut fermenters”.

Their digestive tract is made up of a simple stomach, small intestine and large intestine.

The natural feeding habit of the horse is to eat small amounts of roughages, often.

Domestication brought a change to this.

Modern horse management practices incorporate stabling, increased grain-based concentrate consumption, meal feeding and limited pasture access. These changes led to a myriad of problems by undermining the horses’ digestive capabilities.

To ensure optimal health, horses must be given access to a high-quality fiber-based diet.

Grain concentrates and supplements should only be fed to compliment the forage offered.

If high-quality forage is fed, most horses only require a low intake of a vitamin and mineral pellet (ration balancer pellet). As horses increase their workload or physiological demands, e.g., pregnancy or lactation, additional concentrate may be required.

Horses require an absolute minimum of 1% of their body weight in dry forage per day; for a 1000lb horse, this equates to 10lb per day.

A safer guideline is to provide horses with a minimum of 1.5 to 2% of their body weight in dry forage per day (this equates to 15 to 20lbs of dry forage per day for a 1000lb horse). Some classes of horses cannot tolerate diets high in sugars and starches, for example, senior horses. Standlee Alfalfa or Teff Grass is an excellent choice for senior horses who may require

May 2021

diets lower in sugars and starches. Standlee provides premium, high-quality forage, in several varieties, to satisfy the nutritional needs of all classes of horses.

There are several options available when adding high-quality western forages to your horse’s feed program. Bagged pellets, cubes or chopped forage products are easy to incorporate into your existing feeding program to improve the nutritional value of lesser quality hay. Benefits to bagged forage products include guaranteed consistency in quality and nutritional profile, less waste and easier storage and handling than larger bales.

If you have questions, please contact the nutritionists at Standlee Premium Western Forage, or consult with your veterinarian.

Equine Times

Page 7

Body clipping can be a Useful Taylor Fabus and Gabrielle Dingell

EAST LANSING, MI. — Many horse enthusiasts may not know that body clipping can serve purposes other than simply aesthetics. In this Michigan State University Extension article, we’ll explore a variety of uses for clipping horses and learn many tricks to improve your overall clipping performance and final product.

Horses can be clipped for several different reasons, but most commonly it is related to health and comfort reasons.

One such health condition where horses are clipped is Cushing’s, a disease that can cause a horse to not shed its winter coat properly. Clipping a horse suffering from Cushing’s disease, even with a partial clip, allows a horse to regulate their body temperature more effectively in the summer and winter months.

Additionally, during winter months, you may perform a trace clip on a horse to better diffuse heat while working. A trace clip is where only a portion of the horse’s body is clipped. This reduces the sweat produced during work, as well as the time it takes a horse to cool down and dry off after work. There are many different types of trace clips to choose from, each serving a slightly different purpose.

During the summer months, you may perform an entire body clip on horses.

This gives a clean, tidy appearance and can aid in show preparation by reducing the time it takes to wash. Before beginning to clip, remember that a horse will not be show ready overnight from a clip.

Allow at least two weeks for hair to settle and grow out after a clip for optimum result.

A basic list of supplies to clip a horse will include body clippers, blade wash and coolant, a set of rechargeable clippers, towels, twitch, coat conditioner, sidewalk chalk and a variety of brushes.

Body clippers are heavier duty clippers compared to the ones used to clean up whiskers and ears. You should also have a set of quiet, rechargeable clippers to get in tiny spaces and do clean ups.

A standard body clip is done with a #10 blade, and you should have at least Page 8

Equine Times

Tool for horse owners

three blades on hand. Blade cleaning supplies include blade wash and blade coolant. Things that aren't exactly necessary, but can be very useful to have on hand, include a twitch, coat conditioner such as Showsheen, towels and one unexpected tool: sidewalk chalk.

The very first step for the best clip starts with bathing the horse. Ensure all dirt, mud and excess loose hair is off the horse. Clipper blades dull quicker with dirt and grime and they will not leave a smooth finish if there is dirt in the undercoat. After bathing and drying, curry the horse thoroughly to bring out all loose hair. Finish with a spray of coat conditioner and work it in with a stiff dandy brush. Keep that brush on hand to groom as you clip.

If doing a trace clip, it helps to give yourself guidelines to follow. This is where the sidewalk chalk comes in; it works great for this purpose. Choose a chalk color that will show up on your horse and then wet the chalk to make lines where the edge of your clip will be.

If you mess up, simply wipe away and restart.

After prepping the horse, start at the shoulder where the horse can see you.

Turn on the clippers and make sure the horse is comfortable with the noise and

feel of the clippers. Patience is key—you have a long way to go. Clip against the grain of the hair using light pressure, and let the blade cut the hair. Do not force the blade through the hair or you will end up with lines.

As you clip, you may notice very faint, tiny lines from your clippers. These fine lines are normal. Lines that are 1/8 inch apart with hair significantly longer than the rest are not normal. If this is happening, clean your blade by pouring a pool of blade wash into a small container and running the blade in the wash. If this does not solve your problem, there is a good chance you need to swap out your blade for a new one. It is completely normal to use two to three blades on a horse, especially if they have been re-sharpened.

Once you have clipped your preferred trace or the full body, you can move on to the legs. Legs have hair that is significantly coarser than the body hair. If you have a horse with excessive leg hair, trim it back with scissors prior to clipping.

This will save time and wear on your expensive clipper blades. Make sure you clip the legs from every angle possible. If needed, have a friend lift a leg so you can get every spot of the opposing leg.

The last piece to clip, and most

One type of trace clip. Photo by Taylor Fabus

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Body clipping can be a Useful

important part, is the head. Every time you do a horse’s head, have a fresh blade and take your time. Start wherever your horse is most comfortable and save the hardest spots, typically the ears, for last.

If your horse is incredibly unhappy about their ears, muzzle or eyes, feel free to apply a twitch for a limited amount of time and work quickly. It is important to make this a good experience for the horse so that future clippings will not be difficult.

There are a few important things to

Tool for horse owners

keep in mind as you clip. First, make sure to brush and towel off your horse. You want to clip every inch, so brushing away the excess hair will give you a clearer view of what hair still needs to be clipped.

Touch ups, at a later date, are always an option, but it’s best to avoid them. Also, keep an eye on the temperature of your blades. If they feel warm to the touch, spray with coolant or swap out the blade.

Sometimes horses will start to dance or move away from the clipper—they could be telling that the blade is too hot.

Your final step to clipping your horse is another bath. The tiny hairs produced by clipping are incredibly itchy. Make sure they are all off your horse and give them a good condition to rehydrate the open hair follicles. Cover your horse in a thick, wool cooler to dry and give them some hay to munch on. Keep a close eye on how your horse reacts to the weather in the next few days, as they may need an extra blanket or sheet without their long coat.

Michigan 4-H Foundation offers mini-grants up to $1,000 for local programs Abbey Miller The Michigan 4-H Foundation has announced grant and award opportunities of up to $1,000 to support local 4-H clubs and county programs for the 2021-2022 program year.

The Michigan 4-H Foundation has announced grant and award opportunities of up to $1,000 to support local 4-H clubs and county programs for the 2021-2022 program year. 4-H volunteer leaders, members and staff members are encouraged to apply for these funds starting in April. All grant and award applications are due June 1, 2021.

The following funding opportunities are now open for the 2021-2022 program year: Michigan 4-H Legacy Grants – Two $1,000 grants available Supports development of a new program or initiative, or effort to strengthen, enhance or expand a current program that’s making a difference. Funded by the Michigan 4-H Legacy Fund Endowment.

4-H On-Target Grants – Two $500 grants available Supports 4-H shooting sports programs to enhance existing programs, develop a new program or offer a special experience related to 4-H shooting sports. Funded with support from the Thomas H. Cobb 4-H Shooting Sports Endowment Fund.

The Collins 4-H Youth Horticulture

Grant – One $500 grant available This grant opportunity is for 4-H youth clubs only to advance club work in plant science and horticulture activities locally. This grant is made possible by the William J. and Ruth D. Collins Endowment Fund to advance 4-H youth horticulture and gardening programs.

4-H Educational Garden Grants – Two $1,000 grants available Supports the creation of local 4-H educational gardens in Michigan.

Funded by the Albert A. Albright Endowment for support of 4-H plant science and gardening education.

Michigan Farm Bureau (MFB) 4-H Excellence in Agriculture Award – Three $1,000 grants available This award recognizes the outstanding agricultural 4-H volunteers that have exhibited excellence in 4-H youth education and leadership development in the areas of 4-H beef cattle; dairy cattle; goats; horses; horticulture, crops and soils; poultry; rabbits; sheep; swine; and veterinary

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science. Honorees designate a $1,000 grant to a 4-H agricultural program of their choice and are recognized by both Michigan 4-H and by Michigan Farm Bureau. Funded by the Michigan Farm Bureau 4-H Excellence in Agriculture Endowment Fund.

Additional details and the application for these opportunities are online at https://mi4hfdtn.org/grants or contact the Michigan 4-H Foundation for more information at 517-353-6692.

The Michigan 4-H Foundation is a not-for-profit 501(c)(3) organization that supports the mission and vision of Michigan State University (MSU) Extension 4-H Youth Development statewide.

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Give foals the best chance of being born healthy Atwood C. Asbury, DVM, DACT

The mare from which you have always wanted to raise a foal has just been pronounced pregnant by your veterinarian. Now you just have to wait about 11 months and see what she produces, right? Not so fast! There is much more involved than just waiting if you want the foal to have the best chance of being born healthy. Your first concern is to maintain that newly detected pregnancy.

Barry Ball, DVM, PhD, Dipl.

ACT (reproduction specialist), University of California, Davis, showed early embryonic loss occurred at a rate of nine percent in young, fertile mares by Day 14 after fertilization, with a loss rate more than 60 percent for aged, sub-fertile mares during this same time period. Therefore, rechecks of Page 10

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the pregnancy are a must so if an early loss occurs, re-breeding is an option.

Can you stop early embryonic loss?

One possible defect, inadequate progesterone secretion, is a rare occurrence, but many breeders supplement progesterone or synthetic compounds with similar actions such as altrenogest (brand name Regu-Mate) during early pregnancy. Progesterone causes the cervix to remain tightly closed, the uterus to remain firm and helps block production of prostaglandins (hormones that arise from inflammation in the uterus).

Why not give progesterone to all mares in early pregnancy?

It is expensive, potentially harmful to handlers, and unnecessary in many cases. Progesterone deficiency can be documented by monitoring progesterone levels freMay 2021

quently during the first few weeks of pregnancy. Repeated early pregnancy loss is a reason for concern, and your veterinarian’s input is needed. Managing stress can offset this problem in many cases.

Minimize stress by eliminating sudden feed changes, extremes in exposure to adverse weather, threatening dogs chasing the horses, loud noises, etc.

Good management practices for all horses include control of intestinal parasites, prevention of infectious diseases, feeding high-quality rations, and care of feet and teeth.

Pregnant mares require more. The major concern centers on the antibodies passed to the foal through colostrum (first milk). The equine placenta does not permit passage of maternal antibodies to the fetus.

During the final weeks of pregnancy, the mare needs to concentrate proteins that carry antibodies to

Give foals the best chance of being born healthy

the foal. Therefore, a carefully planned immunization program during gestation is critical. Consult your veterinarian for a vaccination schedule since there are regional differences to consider (such as botulism).

Problems with colostral transfer of immunity include a low antibody concentration, premature lactation and loss of antibodies and the foal’s inability to suckle.

Measuring IgG (the immune antibody protein) in the foal’s serum at 24 hours of age will determine the amount of antibody transferred.

There is a correlation of low levels of IgG and susceptibility to infections. Treating foals with immune plasma can modify the problem.

Mare Health Pregnant mares should gain weight moderately during pregnancy and have a natural glow to

their coats. Careful inspection of the udder and external genitalia should occur at frequent intervals throughout gestation. Any discharge from the vulva warrants a call to your veterinarian. Your records should clearly indicate which mares are sutured so they can be opened in time for foaling.

Inspect the udder for premature lactation. Left on their own, foaling mares will select an open space within a sheltered area with clean ground and easy escape routes.

Those factors are evolutionary. So, it is to our advantage to provide similar facilities—protected and quiet—for the “civilized” mare.

Should we supervise all foalings?

The statistics say no, due to the low incidence of problems. But when there are problems, they tend to be big ones, and immediate attention can make a difference.

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The small breeder might benefit from technologies that alert the foaling attendant.

One final management tip: Beware of the late pregnancy mare who seeks to eat all of the hay put out for her and three or four other mares. Invariably, you’ll end up with one overly stuffed mare and several hungry ones. This is bad news during foaling since the abdominal pressure during foaling can cause ruptures in the large bowel and cecum. This rupture is likely to occur when the large bowel is distended by feed and, when it occurs, it is fatal.

At best, horse breeding is an art that allows minor adjustments to nature. The satisfaction of seeing that foal born, standing, growing, and competing is more than adequate compensation for the breeder.

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Six Ways to Slow Horse Feed Intake Gina T. There has been a recent trend to manage horses in a more “natural” manner, especially when it comes to feeding. Extending the length of time horses spend foraging has been linked to improvements in horse health and wellbeing, including reductions in unwanted behaviors, ulcers, choke and insulin and glucose responses after a meal.

Slowing feed intake is also important for horses on restricted diets, those who are meal fed a few times each day, and horses who tend to aggressively and quickly feed. Many horse owners can slow equine feed intake rates by simply altering how they deliver feed to their horse.

1. Slow-feed Hay Nets Researchers from the University of Minnesota recently evaluated different hay nets to determine the effect on horse intake rates. Horses were fed hay (1% bodyweight twice daily) off the boxstall floor (control), or from one of three hay nets, including a large net (6 inch openings), medium net (1.75 inches) and small net (1.0 inch). The study revealed that horses feeding from the medium net took just over 5 hours to consume the hay meal, while horses eating from the small nets took 6.5 hours to consume the meal. Both the control and large net resulted in consumption times of 3.2 and 3.4 hours, respectively. If small or medium hay nets (Hay Chix hay nets) were used for twice daily feedings, the anticipated amount of time horses would spend foraging would be 10 to 13 hours each day, more closely mimicking a horse’s natural grazing behavior.

2. Grazing Muzzles

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Equine Times

Recent research has shown that grazing muzzles can help slow horse intake of both pasture and grain. Researchers from the University of Minnesota determined the use of a grazing muzzle (Weaver) reduced a horse’s pasture intake by approximately 30%. Researchers from Illinois recently evaluated two grazing muzzles (Tough 1 Nylon and Easy Breathe) when horses were fed grain and determined that the use of a grazing muzzle slowed grain intake but tended to spill more grain. However, horses were able to acclimate to the grazing muzzle and increased their intake rate over time.

3. Specialized Grain Feeders Researchers from Texas A&M University tested a newly designed feed bucket (Pre-Vent Feeder) and determined that the bucket slowed grain consumption and reduced grain spillage. Horses spent 21 to 60 additional minutes eating grain from the feeder compared to a bucket or tub. In some situations, regular cleaning of the feeder will be needed.

In a separate study, researchers from North Carolina State University developed a waffle structure that was inserted into a feed bucket. They concluded the waffle insert increased grain consumption time by nearly 50% compared to a bucket without the waffle insert.

4. Obstacles Researchers from North Carolina State University tested grain feeding time using a bucket with four movable boccestyle balls (4 inch diameter) placed in it and found the balls were effective at extending (by 4 minutes) and maintaining the time it took horses to consume feed after multiple days

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of use. Additionally, the researchers found that the balls produced the lowest glucose and insulin responses compared to other feeding methods tested.

5. Forage Quality The fiber content in hays can be used to slow horse consumption. Neutral detergent fiber (NDF) is a measurement of insoluble fiber and provides the plant with structural rigidity. The higher the NDF, the less a horse will consume. NDF levels between 40 and 50% are considered ideal and promote hay intake, while NDF levels above 65% tend to result in a reduction in intake by most horses.

Hays high in NDF tend to be classified as “busy hay” and are especially useful when managing aggressive and quick eaters or horses on a restricted diet. However, only a small proportion of a horse’s diet should be comprised of “busy hay” high in NDF. 6. Feeding Order Many people believe that feeding hay before grain slows feed intake. Research has confirmed this belief and determined that horses consumed grain slower when hay was fed 20 minutes before the grain meal. When hay was fed before grain, grain consumption was 0.3 pounds per minute compared to 0.4 pounds per minute when hay and grain were fed simultaneously.

Slow-feed hay nets, grazing muzzles, specialized grain feeders, obstacles, forages high in NDF and feeding order are all effective management strategies for slowing horse feed intake and represent simple and affordable management options horse owners can implement.

exploring

SUMMER WATER INTAKE

in horses

HORSES MAY NEED UP TO 30 GALLONS OF WATER PER DAY DEPENDING ON HEAT, HUMIDITY AND EXERCISE. maintenance horses will drink a minimum of 5-15 gallons of water per day

STIMULATING THIRST

5lbs of Hay Better Stimulates Thirst Compared to 5lbs of Grain Supplement with Electrolytes

SIGNS OF DEHYDRATION BEHAVIORAL SIGNS Lack of Focus Lack of Concentration Fatigue No Interest in Drinking No Interest in Eating PHYSIOLOGICAL SIGNS

Free Choice Salt Block to help meet the minimum requirement of 2oz per day.

TYPICAL WEIGHT (SWEAT) LOSS AFTER EXERCISE 22-66 LBS

10-40 LBS 4.5-7 LBS

Elevated Body Temperature 22-66 Normal 99o - 101o F LBS If Rectal Temp is over 102o F, Do Not Continue with Exercise Elevated Heart Rate Normal 18-44 Beats per Minute Elevated Respiratory Rate Normal: 10-24 Breaths per Minute

EVENTING (3 HOURS) ENDURANCE RACING (53 MILES)

2 TEST FOR DEHYDRATION

THOROUGHBRED TRAINING 10-40 LBS

IDEAL WATER TEMPERATURE IS 45o - 65o F

CAPILLARY REFILL TIME How To: Press upper gum, pressure point will become lighter in color

RANCH WORK (3 HOURS)

HARNESS RACING (1 MILE)

COLOR HYDRATION RETURNS IN...

LEVEL 2 SECONDS HYDRATED 3+ SECONDS DEHYDRATED

SKIN PINCH TEST How To: Pinch skin near point of shoulder SKIN SNAPS BACK IN... <1 SECONDS 2-4 SECONDS 4+ SECONDS

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Equine Times

HYDRATION LEVEL HYDRATED DEHYDRATED DEHYDRATED

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Top

5 tips for protecting your horse from insects

Taylor Fabus

EAST LANSING, MI. — As the temperatures rise, so do the insect populations across all of Michigan and the Midwest. Although managing these pests can prove challenging, below are five tips from Michigan State University Extension that can help you protect your horse from insects.

1. Manure management Although we can’t eliminate insects all together (and honestly, we wouldn’t want to), we can control our management practices to minimize our interaction with these pests. The first step, which isn’t glamorous, involves a pitchfork and some elbow grease. Insects are drawn to manure, which means keeping stalls and small turnouts as clean as possible. This will help prevent areas where insects will congregate.

Removing manure from pastures is a good way to prevent the spread of external and internal parasites. If complete removal of manure isn’t possible, breaking up clumps of manure can be a good start to eliminating parasites by exposing them to sunlight and other environmental conditions.

2. Clean water supply There are numerous reasons why a clean water supply is important for your horse, and just

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one of those is insect control. One method of creating a clean water supply is to introduce a few goldfish into your larger water troughs. Along with consuming a small amount of the algae that may build up, the fish will also consume much of the mosquito larvae, prohibiting the growth of your mosquito population. As you may already know, many equine diseases are spread through mosquitos, which makes controlling that population extremely important to the health of your horses.

3. Protective gear for your horse You’ve cleaned up your horse’s environment, now it’s time to focus on the horses themselves. If your horses are sensitive to insects (like mine tends to be), then providing them with some protective gear may be just the solution you’re seeking. Fly sheets can provide protection from the sun’s rays, which can damage a sensitive haircoat, but it also provides a bit of relief from the heat while guarding against biting insects.

In addition to a fly sheet, some horses may benefit from wearing a fly mask to protect their face, eyes and ears. It’s extremely important to remove sheets and fly masks on a daily basis to check for any cuts or scrapes and be sure there’s nothing trapped between the horse’s face and the mask. While you have the sheet off, it’s a great time to assess your horse’s body condition score to

May 2021

be sure they’re maintaining the appropriate weight.

4. Fly repellents In addition to the steps above, it may also be helpful to use fly repellents on your animals.

Before saddling up to ride or show, apply fly spray to your horse’s skin and coat. This will often result in a much more pleasurable ride, as your horse won’t be bothered by flying insects.

Repellent ointments can also be very useful, and they often last longer than your average fly spray.

I utilize products such as SWAT when my horse is turned out during the day. Apply SWAT to the sensitive areas of your horse, such as the underside of the barrel, the chest and under the jaw.

If you show your horses throughout the summer, it is imperative you take extra care to protect the areas where you’ve clipped their hair short, such as their ears. The hair on the inner ear provides great protection from insects, so when it’s removed, a repellent ointment should be applied.

5. Natural predators One area of insect control that is often overlooked is using natural predators. Believe it or not, maintaining a population of bats on your farm can be a very effective way to minimize flying insects, such as mosquitos. Bats will consume up to 1,000 flying insects in just one hour.

Proper body positioning for your barrel racing runs Katie Ockert EAST LANSING, MI. — A horse rider’s seat, legs and hands all play an important part in supporting the horse during a barrel racing run.

Have you ever noticed that when you move your body there is a mirrored reaction from your horse? Say you drop your shoulder into a turn, your horse will also drop theirs; you turn your hips slightly, your horse begins to turn with you.

All of this happens for a reason! Your horse can feel every movement your body makes while you are on their back. This is why it is important to practice proper body positioning while riding, especially when running the barrel pattern.

Your body should always be in an upright position – head up, shoulders up, elbows in and belly button pointed straight at the saddle horn.

From this position, you can use your seat to control the speed of the horse. To ask for slower, more collected gaits, simply squeeze your seat muscles, and to ask your horse to stride out, relax your seat muscles. Keep in mind that some horses are much more sensitive to seat pressure

than others, so if you have not done this with your horse, practice at home to see how your horse responds.

When approaching your turns, you should still be sitting in the middle of your saddle.

Remember that shifting your weight to one side or the other can cause your horse to drift too far into the barrel or too far away from the barrel.

If you put weight on your right seat bone, your horse is likely to drift away from that pressure, so your horse will move to the left. (Vice versa would be true if you put weight on your left seat bone.) At the point where you are about a stride length out from the barrel, sit deep and slightly back to cue your horse to get ready to turn. Your hands should still be in a forward position.

As you prepare for the turn, remember to keep your shoulders up and slightly raise and extend your inside hand forward to cue your horse to begin its turn. Your outside hand should be acting as a brace on the saddle horn.

Your inside leg should be softening and lifting your horse’s ribcage during the turn. As you come out of the turn, remember to guide your horse to finish the turn by gently extending your

hand out as if to point to the next barrel. You do not want to get ahead or behind your horse during the quick turns, so it is important to practice at increasing speeds so that you and your horse’s timing is together.

After coming out of the turn, you should use your body to help encourage your horse to move forward to the next barrel. Return the hands to a forward position, relax the seat muscles to allow the horse to stride out and gently encourage your horse with leg pressure; please note that excessive kicking or aggressive behaviors may not have the effect you want. Michigan State University Extension equine specialist Karen Waite’s research actually showed that these aggressive riding behaviors did not improve overall time.

As you ride, remember to take note of your hand, seat and leg positions so that you can become very consistent in how you ask your horse to perform certain maneuvers. As with everything, it takes time, practice and patience to perfect your position, but being aware and intentional about keeping good position is the first step to achieving it.

Understanding and treating scratches in horses

Purdue University College of Veterinary Medicine

All this rain may bring spring flowers, but it can also lead to skin problems such as scratches. "Scratches" refers to a common skin condition in horses that can affect the heel, the back of the pastern, the fetlock, and occasionally the cannon bone.

Veterinarians may refer to it as pastern dermatitis or pastern folliculitis. It is also known as "mud fever", "dew poisoning", "greasy heel" or "cracked heels".

No matter the name, this mixed bacterial, often fungal, and sometimes parasitic skin condition is a major pain. The bacteria and fungi find their way into breaks in the horse's skin. The conditions for its development are excessively moist or dirty environment and repeated wetting and drying of the skin (damp, muddy pastures or wet stalls).

WHICH HORSES ARE AT RISK? Scratches isn't a fussy disease, as any horse can get it; but the condition is widely prevalent in draft horses with feathers or long fetlock hair that retain moisture.

Horses with white legs are also at risk because un-pigmented skin is more susceptible to sun damage, chaffing and abrasions making it more at risk for infection.

HOW ARE SCRATCHES TREATED? A rule of thumb is: "Don't scratch

scratches".

Carefully clip the hair away from the infected area, taking care not to scrape or break the skin. Once the area is clipped, gently wash the affected areas with an antibacterial shampoo (such as chlorhexidine, betadine, or benzoyl peroxide) or an antifungal shampoo (1-2% miconazole) and let it sit for about 10 minutes before gently rinsing. Rough scrubbing and harsh chemicals should be avoided. Scabs can be massaged off carefully, but don't pull or pick them. Using a clean towel, carefully pat the area dry and apply a topical treatment as directed by your veterinarian. Limit washing sessions to only once a day for 7-10 days. Then cut back the frequency to 2-3 times per week until resolved.

Ointments that your veterinarian will recommend for scratches include antibiotics, antifungals, steroids and other medications. In more serious cases, systemic antibiotics may be needed.

The primary defense to allow healing is a dry, clean environment. This means you may need to find an alternative living situation for your horse if he/she is fighting a case of scratches. Horses should be kept off wet pastures and housed in a clean, dry stall. Shavings should be of the large, fluffy variety. Milled shavings should be avoided as they contain more moisture. Applying a layer of zinc-oxide based cream (ie.

May 2021

Desitin®) to DRY affected areas may also help soften scabs and provide a moisture barrier to allow healing to occur.

If you've been treating scratches unsuccessfully, you should call your veterinarian out to have a look. A severe lameness and/ or deep wounds with swelling, excessive heat or white/yellow discharge also warrants a call to your veterinarian.

WHAT CAN BE DONE TO PREVENT SCRATCHES? Keep the footing dry inside the stall and turnout area; use dry bedding and fill in muddy areas around gates Dry your horse's legs before putting him up in a stall.

Avoid early morning turnout when there is heavy dew or frost on the ground.

Do not use wraps or boots that will retain moisture around the infected areas.

Do not share boots between horses.

Horses with long leg hair or feathers may benefit from hair removal/clipping so that moisture and contaminants are not trapped against the skin.

Early detection is the best medicine check your horse's legs frequently for early signs of infection and routinely groom your horse to prevent mud build-up on legs.

If your horse has scratches, please consult with the Purdue University College of Veterinary Medicine for treatment recommendations.

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