Rutgers Equine Science Center News

Additional Scholarships for 2010

Thu, 19 Nov 2009 12:09:30 -0500

Two new scholarships are available to assist young people pursuing agricultural education.

USDA Memo: 2008 U.S. Animal Health Report Now Available

Thu, 19 Nov 2009 11:27:48 -0500

The 2008 United States Animal Health Report Highlights: Documenting a Dynamic Agriculture Landscape report is now available at http://USanimalhealth.aphis.usda.gov. Hard copies of the full report will be available in late December of 2009.

WHOA, Is That A Horse In My Science Class?

Wed, 18 Nov 2009 14:39:30 -0500

New Brunswick, N.J. -- The Rutgers Equine Science Center will announce plans for a new interactive youth component to its website during the annual Equine Science Update on Tuesday, December 8, 2009. The website will blend “the old” with “the new” as Lord Nelson, a 36-year old American Quarter Horse, will serve as the figurehead guiding youth through the revamped website.

Rutgers Equine Science Center’s Horse Treadmill Debuted on ESPN

Mon, 9 Nov 2009 15:32:12 -0500

The Rutgers University Equine Science Center was recently featured on ESPN during the broadcast of the Rutgers versus Pittsburgh football game on Friday, October 16, 2009. The segment, which aired during the fourth quarter of the game, showed footage of Snowdrift, a standardbred mare, exercising on the high-speed equine treadmill.

Memo from the NJDA DAH Re: Piroplasmosis Investigation

Fri, 6 Nov 2009 13:29:21 -0500

A disease investigation that began in mid-October on a Texas ranch has revealed 79.8% of the horses on the premises are positive for Equine Piroplasmosis (EP). On-going traceback investigations have identified four resident NJ horses were purchased in 2008 from the EP infected ranch and two of the four have tested positive for this disease. Additional testing on the imported horses and contact horses is underway. Quarantines have been placed on the affected premises and precautions implemented to prevent the spread of this disease to other horses.

Three-Day Course to Offer Human Training Techniques for Racehorses

Mon, 26 Oct 2009 10:00:01 -0500

ALBRIGHTSVILLE, PA – October 26, 2009 -- Conditioning world class athletes and their equine counterparts are so similar that some of the advances made to prepare the stars of track and field may be applicable to the stars of the racetrack.

Annual Equine Science Center Stakeholders' Meeting Actively Engages Equine Community

Mon, 26 Oct 2009 09:59:21 -0500

New Brunswick, N.J. – The Rutgers Equine Science Center’s Stakeholders' Meeting was a tremendous success as horse owners and farmers, businessmen, breeders, and equine enthusiasts gathered to address issues within the equine industry in New Jersey. The annual event, held October 16, 2009, was well attended with more than 60 stakeholders focusing their attention on horse health, integrity of equestrian sport, land use and environmental stewardship, the future of the equine industry and other areas of concern.

Memo from the New Jersey Department of Agriculture for October 21, 2009: West Nile Virus and Eastern Equine Encephalitis Update

Wed, 21 Oct 2009 09:09:21 -0500

This has been a busy season for mosquitoes, as predicted early due to the wet spring and summer. To date in New Jersey, Eastern Equine Encephalitis (EEE) infection has been confirmed in 6 horses and 1 alpaca. Three additional horses have been diagnosed as presumptive positive for EEE. The "presumptive" status was given because brain tissue was unavailable for confirmatory testing. Of the EEE infected animals, the earliest onset date was August 18, 2009 and the most recent onset date was October 4, 2009. The EEE+ cases were from the following counties:

Equine Science Center and New Jersey Agricultural Experiment Station Team Up to Develop Leaders

Wed, 7 Oct 2009 16:08:49 -0400

New Brunswick, N.J. – The Rutgers University Equine Science Center and the New Jersey Agricultural Experiment Station have announced the dates for their popular course Developing Future Leaders for the Equine Industry. The course will be held on Tuesday, January 5 and Tuesday, January 12, 2010 from 8:30 am – 4:30 pm at the New Jersey Museum of Agriculture on Cook Campus.

Publication Offers Advice for Farmers on Avoiding Conflicts With Neighbors and Towns

Fri, 2 Oct 2009 11:27:50 -0400

The New Jersey State Agriculture Development Committee (SADC) recently developed a publication offering helpful tips for farmers on how to avoid conflicts with neighbors. The publication includes advice from more than 50 farmers sharing their thoughts and experience on how to avoid conflicts and maintain good relationships with neighbors and municipalities.

Equine Science Center Shines at the Colts Neck Barn Tour

Thu, 1 Oct 2009 13:57:47 -0400

Rutgers University students studying Animal Sciences recently served as tour guide assistants on behalf of the Equine Science Center during the Colts Neck Barn Tour. The tour, sponsored by the Colts Neck Polo Club, featured exclusive visits to five grand stables in Colts Neck, NJ.

4-H Members Get Creative in Fundraising Efforts for the Equine Science Center

Fri, 18 Sep 2009 11:27:12 -0500

NEW BRUNSWICK, NJ (September 18, 2009) - The 4-H clubs in Burlington County recently made a generous donation to the Rutgers Equine Science Center. The $1,000 gift was made as part of a greater gift campaign by 4-H clubs at the county level throughout the state of New Jersey.

Responsible Horse Ownership a Priority at the Equine Science Center

Wed, 9 Sep 2009 09:31:00 -0400

NEW BRUNSWICK, NJ (September 9, 2009) - What do you do when you can no longer adequately care for your horse? Are you looking to purchase a horse? The answers to these and many more horse ownership questions are now available on the new Responsible Horse Ownership page of the Equine Science Center website, an initiative led by Sarah Ralston, associate director for teaching for the Center. The new webpage can be accessed from the Equine Science Center homepage (esc.rutgers.edu).

New Scholarship Enables Continued Student Research at the Rutgers Equine Science Center

Thu, 3 Sep 2009 15:25:29 -0400

Nettie Liburt, a Ph.D. candidate in the Rutgers University Graduate Program in Endocrinology and Animal Biosciences, is the inaugural recipient of a new scholarship from the Equine Science Center. The award was given by an anonymous donor.

Rutgers University 2009 Equine Science Center Update Recognizes Impactful Horse Industry Research

Wed, 2 Sep 2009 14:34:18 -0400

New Brunswick, N.J. - The Rutgers University Equine Science Center will hosts its 2009 Equine Science Center Update on Tuesday, December 8, 2009 from 6:00 – 9:00 pm. The annual event will be held at the Cook Campus Center on the G.H. Cook Campus.

Rutgers Equine Science Center Presents Fall 2009 Webinar Series

Wed, 2 Sep 2009 14:00:56 -0400

NEW BRUNSWICK, NJ (September 2, 2009) - The Rutgers Equine Science Center is proud to announce the dates and topics of its fall 2009 Webinar series. By implementing online learning opportunities, the Equine Science Center aims to promote equine science education and advance the Center’s mission of better horse care through research and education.

Farm and Land Management Workshop to Be Held at the Rutgers Equine Science Center Ryders Lane Best Management Practices Horse Farm

Wed, 2 Sep 2009 13:50:15 -0400

NEW BRUNSWICK, NJ (September 2, 2009) - New Brunswick, N.J. - The Rutgers University Equine Science Center is pleased to present the Farm and Land Management Workshop at the newly developed Ryders Lane Best Management Practices Demonstration Farm on Friday, October 16 from 1:30 pm to 4:00 pm.

The workshop will feature discussions and best management practice demonstrations led by several Rutgers University faculty members. Topics include: manure storage and research; biofiltration swales, paddock draining systems and rain gardens; fencing and rotational grazing; and composting. At the end of the workshop, attendees are invited to an optional tour of the Young Horse Teaching and Research Program.

Ask the Expert: How can I get my horse to gain weight?

Thu, 27 Aug 2009 10:05:02 -0400

I own a six year old mare. In the four years that I have had her, she has received roughly the same feed regimen: 8 quarts of sweet feed a day, daily wormer, tube worm twice a year, alfalfa hay in the winter months, sometimes alfalfa cubes or pellets in transition during spring. There have been no problems with this regimen. She looked the same all through winter, but this week she has a marked weight loss. I have added another 8 quarts of sweet feed and another scoop of alfalfa cubes to the morning feeding and paste wormed again. She still is not showing signs of improvement. There is no feed loss (e.g. when teeth need floating).What am I doing wrong?

Memo from the NJDA DAH: First Equine Cases of WNV and EEE in NJ 2009

Mon, 24 Aug 2009 14:47:43 -0400

On August 21, 2009 the first cases of West Nile virus (WNV) and Eastern Equine Encephalitis (EEE) were confirmed in New Jersey equine - the first diagnosis of either disease in horses this year.

Ask the Expert: Can corn cause laminitis?

Wed, 26 Aug 2009 14:11:00 -0400

A friend told me that the worst thing to feed horses is corn. She claims it is the leading cause of laminitis. Is there any truth to this statement?

Ask the Expert: When should a colt be weaned?

Wed, 26 Aug 2009 14:10:06 -0400

What is the optimal age to wean a colt for maximum size and performance?

Ask the Expert: Why does my horse walk on one track instead of two?

Wed, 26 Aug 2009 14:09:37 -0400

My horse puts one foot in front of the other so that when he is being ridden in soft dirt he leaves only one track. Why does he walk this way?

Ask the Expert: How often can I breed my mare?

Wed, 26 Aug 2009 14:09:13 -0400

My mare is 11 years old, had her first foal this year and is due to deliver another next spring. How often is it safe for her to get in foal, and should I be giving her time off from pregnancy to regroup her health? This is my first mare and I want to do what is best for her and her health.

Ask the Expert: How do I get rid of alsike clover in my pasture?

Wed, 26 Aug 2009 14:08:39 -0400

I want to spray and fertilize my pasture, but I have a problem with alsike clover. Can you tell me what herbicide I should use to get rid of it?

Ask the Expert: How much water do I mix with my fertilizer?

Wed, 26 Aug 2009 14:07:42 -0400

I am in the process of fertilizing my hay field. My soil test results say I need to apply 50 lbs of nitrogen per acre. I have a 100 gal sprayer and I have Ammonium Nitrate in 50 lb bags. I need help knowing how much water to mix per lbs of fertilizer?

Ask the Expert: How can I prevent the transmission of strangles?

Tue, 25 Aug 2009 15:07:25 -0400

I am organizing a small show at a local stable. A few nearby barns have had cases of strangles. Is there any way to find out where strangles outbreaks have occurred (in order to have entries from those farms bring a health notice)? Also, what are some suggested best practices to avoid or minimize the chances of strangles transmission?

Ask the Expert: How can I tell if my mare is in heat?

Tue, 25 Aug 2009 15:03:35 -0400

How long are mares in season for and how many times a year do they go into season? Also, how can you tell when the mare is in season?

Ask the Expert: What herbicides can I use on a horse pasture?

Tue, 25 Aug 2009 15:02:32 -0400

Are there any safe weed killers that can be used on horse paddocks? I dig out as many weeds as I can in early spring but they never go away.

Ask the Expert: Are black oil sunflower seeds okay to feed my horse?

Tue, 25 Aug 2009 15:01:51 -0400

I have read that black oil sunflower seeds help the horse’s coat, and that they have natural omega-3 fatty acids. But some say that they can cause impaction and possibly colic in horses. Has there been any official research on feeding black oil sunflower seeds to horses?

Ask the Expert: Can I feed pine nut oil to my horse?

Tue, 25 Aug 2009 15:01:01 -0400

Would it be safe or effective to feed human grade pine nut oil to my horse to help prevent stomach ulcers?

Ask the Expert: How do I get my new pasture to grow without any bare spots?

Tue, 25 Aug 2009 14:59:29 -0400

I want to reseed my pasture in the spring. I know this isn't the best time but I need to try to fill in the holes so the weeds don’t take over again. I need a drought-resistant mix of seed to insure that the pasture can withstand the beating the horses give it. Do you have any recommendations?

Ask the Expert: How many acres will provide a horse with all its nutrients?

Tue, 25 Aug 2009 14:57:23 -0400

How many acres must a pasture be to provide enough grass to feed one horse for the entire summer, or until the grass loses its nutritional content?

New Jersey State 4-H Championship Horse Show Includes Rutgers Equine Science Center Benefit Fun Show

Thu, 20 Aug 2009 13:26:48 -0400

NEW BRUNSWICK, NJ (August 17, 2009) - The annual New Jersey State 4-H Championship Horse Show will include a new event: the Equine Science Center Benefit Fun Show. Intended to recognize the Center for its contributions to the equine industry; the Equine Science Center Benefit Fun Show features classes and games sponsored by participating 4-H counties. The 4-H Championship Horse Show, for 4-H’ers in grades 5-12 and 4-H’ers in their first year out of high school, held at the Horse Park of New Jersey at Stone Tavern in Allentown, NJ, begins Thursday, August 20 at 6 pm and ends on Sunday, August 23. The Equine Science Center Benefit Fun Show will take place during the course of the Championship Horse Show.

New Jersey Stands to Lose $780 Million of Economic Impact Annually if Racing-related Activities Leave the State

Tue, 28 Jul 2009 13:47:30 -0400

Recent report analyzes the impact of slot machines on the horse racing industry.

All About Horses” week-long camp!

Tue, 28 Jul 2009 13:47:30 -0400

Rutgers Equine Science Center and the New Jersey Museum of Agriculture Team Up to Present “All About Horses” Camp A week-long day camp for children who are new to horse care.

Eastern Equine Encephalitis (EEE) and West Nile Virus (WNV) Vaccination Reminder

Thu, 16 Jul 2009 13:47:30 -0400

The Equine Science Center reminds horse owners of the importance of vaccinating against Eastern equine encephalitis (EEE) and West Nile virus (WNV). Due to the wet, temperate weather this season, veterinarians are anticipating higher than usual mosquito activity in the area. Be sure to consult your veterinarian about adequate and appropriate vaccination for your horses.

Additional information about EEE can be found in our fact sheet, Questions Regarding Eastern Equine Encephalitis and Horses. For more information about WNV, see our fact sheet West Nile Virus in Horses.

Equine Science Center Participates in First Urban 4-H Summer Science Program

Wed, 1 Jul 2009 14:05:47 -0400

NEW BRUNSWICK, N.J. – Rutgers University will host 45 high school students in its first Annual 4-H Summer Science Program for urban youths at the School of Environmental and Biological Sciences.
From July 6 to10, high school students from Camden, Hackensack, Paterson, and Trenton will learn about science as they explore research in a series of interactive activities in animal, marine, environmental, and food sciences alongside a number of Rutgers faculty from these disciplines. Most of these urban youths will be enjoying their first 4-H experience as they gain a better understanding of opportunities available in science, engineering, and technology.
On Tuesday, July 7th, the Equine Science Center will present the students with a high-speed equine treadmill demonstration and simulated experiment in its Exercise and Physiology Laboratory. The students will also see yearlings from the popular Young Horse Teaching and Research Program.

Equine Science Center Podcast Series

Tue, 16 Jun 2009 10:50:17 -0400

The Equine Science Center has introduced a series of podcasts as a way to accommodate the public’s desire to learn "on the run." They are available for download at www.esc.rutgers.edu.

Equine Science Center Spring/Summer 2009 Newsletter

Mon, 15 Jun 2009 17:33:43 -0400

The Equine Science Center's Spring/Summer 2009 newsletter, "News Update," is available for download.

Rutgers Equine Science Center Faculty And Students Excel at Equine Science Society Meeting

Thu, 4 Jun 2009 15:36:05 -0400

NEW BRUNSWICK, N.J. (June 4, 2009) - Faculty and students from the Rutgers Equine Science Center traveled to Keystone, Colorado to attend the 21st Equine Science Society meeting, May 29-31, 2009. Meeting attendees included Center director Karyn Malinowski and associate directors Kenneth McKeever, Sarah Ralston and Carey Williams. Graduate students Emily Lamprecht, Nettie Liburt and Danielle Smarsh and undergraduates Emily Wunderlich and Jennie Zambito accompanied the faculty.

Winners of Doris C. Murphy Endowed Scholarship in Equine Science Announced

Thu, 28 May 2009 15:15:33 -0400

NEW BRUNSWICK, N.J. (May 28, 2009) - The Rutgers Equine Science Center awarded Doris C. Murphy Scholarships for the 2009-2010 academic year to the following students, all of whom are in the Class of 2010:

Rutgers Equine Science Center Offers Pasture Management Webinar

Thu, 28 May 2009 11:34:34 -0400

NEW BRUNSWICK, NJ (May 28, 2009) - The Rutgers Equine Science Center and Rutgers Cooperative Extension will offer the first in their online Equine Management Webinar Series on Wednesday, June 3, 2009, at 7:00 PM.

Media Advisory from the New Jersey Department of Agriculture for May 6, 2009: Secretary to Tour Cross-Country Course, Meet with International Officials at One of Nation's Top Eventing Competitions

Wed, 6 May 2009 12:11:33 -0400

New Jersey Secretary of Agriculture Douglas H. Fisher on Friday, May 8, will get an up-close look at the huge jumps some of the nation's top horses and riders will have to make as he tours the cross country course of the 2009 Jersey Fresh CCI** and CCI***, being held May 7 through May 10 at the Horse Park of New Jersey at Stone Tavern.

Memo from the New Jersey Department of Agriculture for May 5, 2009: Influenza A (H1N1) Update

Tue, 5 May 2009 11:48:01 -0400

The New Jersey Department of Agriculture is part of the State government team responding to the outbreak of novel influenza A (H1N1) that has been confirmed in at least seven residents of New Jersey.

Memo from the New Jersey Department of Agriculture for April 30, 2009: Influenza A: 2009 H1N1

Thu, 30 Apr 2009 11:35:11 -0400

"Swine Flu" is a misnomer and USDA, NJDA and other agriculture and swine industry experts are calling for an immediate change in name. To date, no swine have been identified anywhere with the strain of flu (H1N1) circulating in humans and at this time, the disease appears limited to humans.

Memo from the New Jersey Department of Agriculture for April 27, 2009: Swine Influenza A (H1N1)

Mon, 27 Apr 2009 08:43:39 -0400

Public health officials within the United States and throughout the world are investigating outbreaks of swine influenza (swine flu). To date, a total of 21 human cases of infection with swine flu have been confirmed in the United States in the states of California, Kansas, New York, Ohio and Texas.

New Jersey Department of Agriculture Press Release: NJ Now Offers Online System For Equine Infectious Anemia Tests

Mon, 13 Apr 2009 10:50:10 -0400

(TRENTON) - The New Jersey Department of Agriculture Animal Health Diagnostic Laboratory is now connected with GlobalVetLink for online submittals of Equine Infectious Anemia (EIA/Coggins) tests.

American Horse Council Press Release: AHC Issues Forum to Focus on Welfare of Horse

Wed, 22 Apr 2009 10:29:07 -0400

The American Horse Council's National Issues Forum will focus on the "Welfare of the Horse." The Forum, which will feature speakers from segments of the horse community as varied as competition, sport, work and entertainment, will be held June 16, 2009 in Washington, DC as part of the AHC's annual meeting.

Rutgers Students Sweep Awards at Midatlantic Nutrition Conference

Mon, 30 Mar 2009 09:52:52 -0400

Rutgers students Katharine Zeigler and Emily Lamprecht won the Undergraduate and Graduate first place awards, respectively, for their presentations of research posters at the Midatlantic Nutrition Conference in Timonium, Maryland on March 26, 2009.

American Horse Council Press Release: Join the AHC's Annual Congressional Ride-In

Fri, 3 Apr 2009 13:04:23 -0400

The American Horse Council is holding its annual Congressional Ride-In on Wednesday, June 17, in Washington, DC. The Ride-In will take place as part of the AHC National Issues Forum, which will focus on "The Welfare of the Horse" this year. All interested members of the horse community are encouraged to participate.

Doris C. Murphy Endowed Scholarship in Equine Science Deadline : May 1, 2009

Fri, 3 Apr 2009 09:16:31 -0400

Rutgers Equine Science Center and the Department of Animal Sciences at the School of Environmental and Biological Sciences at Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, are pleased to announce the availability of financial assistance to undergraduate women who are New Jersey residents majoring in Animal Sciences with a minor in Equine Science. Scholarships of $1,000 will be awarded annually to as many as six full time undergraduate Rutgers University students (including at least one incoming student). Criteria include New Jersey residency, acceptance or current enrollment at the School of Environmental and Biological Sciences, academic merit, demonstrated interest in equine science, and financial need. Scholarships may be renewed annually with the approval of the scholarship selection committee.

Ask the Expert: What is the best way to balance a broodmare’s diet for calcium and phosphorus?

Thu, 2 Apr 2009 15:01:48 -0400

I live in Wyoming in an area that has a low phosphorous to calcium ratio. It’s almost to the point where foals are born with crooked legs if the mare is not supplemented with phosphorous. I have not had much luck getting mares to eat high phosphorous supplements. I feed grass hay in winter and pasture May through October. For a mare in foal, what would be the proper mix of beet pulp and wheat bran to achieve the right balance of calcium to phosphorous?

Ask the Expert: What is the best way to feed soybeans to horses?

Thu, 2 Apr 2009 14:47:50 -0400

I understand soybean meal is a good source of protein for the older horse. I have soybeans direct from the farmer; can I grind my own meal and feed it? If so, how do I determine the quantity?

Ask the Expert: Can I stop erosion with old bales of hay?

Thu, 2 Apr 2009 14:38:10 -0400

I have eroded areas on a slight slope, and I have extra hay from last year. Can I fill in the eroded areas with the hay?

Ask the Expert: Is Crown Vetch toxic to horses?

Thu, 2 Apr 2009 14:19:54 -0400

I recently moved to a barn that has crown vetch running along the fence line and probably in the pastures, too. I have a three-year-old Hanoverian who is out on 7-8 acres of that pasture with 4 other horses for 8-9 hours/day. The 24-stall barn has been in existence for 5 years. They have euthanized one horse with neurological symptoms and renal failure, but no cause was determined. To my knowledge, no other horses have shown symptoms of toxicity.

Ask the Expert: Is there any research on Teff Grass Hay for horses?

Thu, 2 Apr 2009 13:47:13 -0400

We are using a grass hay mix that is shipped in from New York. Due to price increases, my wife started looking for alternative hay sources. She found a farm in New Jersey that has teff hay. There is a lot of information on teff, both good and bad. Has Rutgers done any studies on teff?

Ask the Expert: How do I stop a foal from biting?

Thu, 2 Apr 2009 13:45:44 -0400

How do I stop my foal from biting?

Ask the Expert: Are Beach Plum shrubs toxic to horses?

Thu, 2 Apr 2009 13:13:54 -0400

Are beach plum shrubs and leaves poisonous to horses? I was thinking of planting some in an adjacent pasture.

Ask the Expert: Can I feed Switchgrass to horses?

Thu, 2 Apr 2009 13:08:00 -0400

Can I feed switchgrass hay to my horses? There are a few studies that suggest it may be toxic to horses. Is this a valid concern? How does the nutritional value of switchgrass compare to other forages?

Memo from the New Jersey Department of Agriculture for February 25, 2009: Information for Veterinarians and Veterinary Professionals regarding Pets and the Peanut Butter and Peanut-Product Recall

Wed, 25 Feb 2009 11:42:23 -0400

The Center for Disease Control (CDC) has been investigating the current Salmonella Typhimurium outbreak in humans in coordination with the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and state and local health departments. In addition to human illness, animals may also have been affected. One laboratory-confirmed case of Salmonella in a dog from an Oregon household was reported, and further characterization of this Salmonella isolate is pending. Salmonella resembling the outbreak strain was isolated by a private laboratory from recalled peanut butter flavored dog biscuits from this dog’s household. At least three states have reported incidents of dogs that have shown gastrointestinal signs consistent with Salmonella infection, and those animals have been known to have consumed peanut butter products on the FDA recall list.

American Horse Council Press Release: Benefits for Horse Industry in Economic Stimulus Bill

Tue, 24 Feb 2009 10:37:29 -0400

President Obama has signed into law the Stimulus Bill, which is intended to provide a jump-start to the U.S. economy. The Stimulus Act continues the bigger write-off for horses and other property purchased and placed in service during 2009. These benefits were part of the 2008 Tax Stimulus bill, but expired at the end of 2008. The Stimulus Bill also includes a few other provisions that may impact horse owners.

USTA, Harness Racing Museum to Host Equine Job Fair April 29

Thu, 2 Apr 2009 09:37:54 -0400

Seeking employment in the horse world? The U.S. Trotting Association and Harness Racing Museum will hold an equine job fair from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. Wednesday, April 29. The event, which will have representatives from about 20 potential employers, will be held at the museum, located at 240 Main Street in Goshen, New York.

Ask the Expert: Is a 20-year old mare too old to breed?

Wed, 1 Apr 2009 14:53:05 -0400

Is a 20-year old mare too old to breed?

Ask the Expert: How do I get rid of a stubborn case of thrush?

Wed, 1 Apr 2009 14:52:21 -0400

My friend's horse has a stubborn case of thrush. She has tried numerous products, a prescription from the vet, peroxide, etc. Despite all the different products, and keeping his stall dry, the hooves will not dry out. What is the best way to eliminate the thrush and prevent its return? Could it be caused by something in the feed, or a vitamin/mineral deficiency?

Ask the Expert: How do I treat scratches?

Wed, 1 Apr 2009 14:52:03 -0400

How would you treat scratches (the scabby, greasy condition some horses get on their fetlocks)? A Quarter Horse in our barn has had a very bad case. He was treated with various remedies with some (but not total) success.

Ask the Expert: How do I get rid of rain rot?

Wed, 1 Apr 2009 14:50:57 -0400

I have an Appaloosa that has encountered problems with rain rot on his back/rump area this past spring and again this fall. We've treated it with iodine shampoo and ointment. It seems to work, but it takes four to five weeks for healing to occur. During that time he is very sensitive, to the point where he can't be ridden. Is there a better, quicker treatment? Better yet, what are some preventive steps to prevent this from happening?

Ask the Expert: What is the best way to manage heaves without steroids?

Wed, 1 Apr 2009 14:50:19 -0400

I have a 19-year-old gelding. He is kept in good shape with frequent dressage training and trail riding. During past summers we would only ever experience one episode of heaves, triggered by humidity. Treatment would prevent reoccurrence until the next summer. This summer he had quite a few episodes of coughing and a lot of vet calls. The vet put him on daily doses of steroids. Every time we tried to wean him off, we ended up right back where we started. What is the best way to manage heaves without steroids?

Ask the Expert: Can I use something other than pharmaceuticals to prevent gastric ulcers?

Wed, 1 Apr 2009 14:49:42 -0400

My 20 year old horse has colicked 6 times over the last year. He has responded well to pharmaceutical treatment the last three times. We assume that his colic is due to ulcers and have since added oil, beet pulp, and lots of alfalfa to his diet and put him on a daily 1/4 tube of a pharmaceutical treatment. He seems to have bloomed both with muscle and coat since we've made the changes (and no more colic - fingers crossed). While I'm relieved and pleased with the results, the cost is killing me. Are there any other ways of dealing with his ulcer issues?

Ask the Expert: Can antibiotics cause loose stool?

Wed, 1 Apr 2009 14:49:37 -0400

My 16-yr old Quarter Horse mare has a runny, snotty nose, a temperature of 100.5, and her appetite is a little off. Her runny nose got worse over a 3-day period. My vet put her on an antibiotic for a couple of days. I mixed the medicine with feed and corn oil to make it stick together. She is eating better today, but has loose stools. Do I need to worry about the loose stools? Is the medicine causing them?

Memo from the New Jersey Department of Agriculture for March 10, 2009: Fair/Show Animal Health Recommendations, Regulations and Forms Reportable Disease Reminder

Tue, 10 Mar 2009 14:35:53 -0400

The following information was distributed to County Extension Agents and Fair/Show Secretaries on March 10, 2009. Please use this information to assist animal owners prepare for the upcoming fairs/shows season.

Equine Science Center Director Honored by Somerset County

Fri, 6 Mar 2009 14:34:57 -0400

Karyn Malinowski, Ph.D., director of the Equine Science Center at Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, has been honored by the Somerset County Commission on the Status of Women at its 17th annual Outstanding Women of Somerset County awards dinner today.

Rutgers Cooperative Extension Sets Training for Animal Waste Management Plans

Tue, 3 Mar 2009 14:33:47 -0400

Educators from Cooperative Extension, a unit of Rutgers New Jersey Agricultural Experiment Station, will provide training, beginning this month, for equine and other livestock farmers in the development of “Self-Certified Animal Waste Management Plans” as required by the state of New Jersey.
On February 9, the state approved an Animal Waste Management Rule, obliging all livestock owners to proactively address and manage non-point source pollution that could originate from livestock operations, including those housing horses, dairy cows, cattle, swine, goats, sheep, poultry and all other domesticated species considered farm animals. The rule was written to prevent water and other environmental pollution, and it received extensive input from numerous state and federal agencies as well as the private sector.

American Horse Council Memorandum: Contagious Equine Metritis Outbreak - Overview and Update

Wed, 25 Feb 2009 14:30:06 -0400

In December 2008, the Kentucky Department of Agriculture announced that a Quarter Horse stallion tested positive for Contagious Equine Metritis (CEM) during routine testing for international semen shipment.
Since this discovery a full epidemiological investigation has been underway to locate, test and quarantine any potentially exposed horses. Currently a total of 11 stallions have been confirmed positive for CEM, four located in Kentucky, three in Indiana, three in Wisconsin and one in Texas. The Indiana and Texas stallions spent time on the central Kentucky premises during the 2008 breeding season. The Wisconsin stallions were not in Kentucky, but all were co-located during at least one breeding season in Wisconsin with one of the CEM-positive stallions that was on the Kentucky premises in 2008.

American Horse Council Press Release: Equine Piroplasmosis Eradicated From Florida, Canadian Restrictions Lifted

Wed, 25 Feb 2009 14:22:47 -0400

The Florida Agriculture and Consumer Services Commissioner Charles H. Bronson announced that the last premises that was determined to have horses infected with Equine Piroplasmosis (EP) has now been released from quarantine, concluding the disease outbreak investigation.

News Update: Horses 2009 Special Edition Newsletter

Mon, 23 Feb 2009 15:17:49 -0500

This special edition of News Update highlights the "Horses 2009" conference coming to the Rutgers Equine Science Center on Saturday, March 28, and Sunday, March 29, 2009. Read on for a roster of leading experts and essential topics supporting the conference theme: "Knowledge is Horse Power."

NJ Veterinary Emergency Response Team (NJVERT) Meeting

Fri, 6 Feb 2009 10:31:42 -0500

Calling all Veterinarians, Vet Techs and Animal Health Care Providers interested in animals in disasters: The NJ Veterinary Emergency Response Team (NJVERT) meeting originally scheduled for December 16, 2008 was canceled due to snow and ice! We have rescheduled this first organizational meeting for the VERT for Thursday, February 26, 2009. Here is your opportunity to learn how to use your talents when disaster strikes and overwhelms the response, ensuring that animals have proper veterinary care.

Tiffany Morey Awarded Ernest C. Bell Scholarship for 2009

Wed, 28 Jan 2009 15:12:04 -0500

Tiffany Morey, a senior at Rutgers’ School of Environmental and Biological Sciences (SEBS), is the recipient of the Ernest C. Bell Scholarship for 2009. The award was presented by Dr. Carey Williams, Extension Specialist in Equine Science at the Rutgers Equine Science Center, at the Annual Breeders Awards dinner hosted by the New Jersey Department of Agriculture.

Equine Science Center Names Richard ‘Rick’ Wills as Winner Of 2009 ‘Spirit Of The Horse’ Award

Wed, 28 Jan 2009 15:10:25 -0500

The Equine Science Center at Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, has named Richard Wills as the 2009 winner of the Center’s "Spirit of the Horse" award. The presentation was made at the New Jersey Department of Agriculture’s Breeders Awards Dinner by Dr. Karyn Malinowski, Director of the Equine Science Center. The "Spirit of the Horse" award recognizes individuals whose lives have been profoundly changed because of their involvement with horses and who have acknowledged the impact by giving back to horses or the horse industry.

Memo from the New Jersey Department of Agriculture for January 23, 2009: NJDA Division of Animal Health to begin charging for forms/supplies

Mon, 26 Jan 2009 09:39:22 -0500

The dire economic situation facing the State of New Jersey requires the Division of Animal Health to begin charging for some forms, supplies, and shipping costs. This change will become effective Monday, January 26, 2009.

Commissioner Alerts Horse Owners of Contagious Horse Disease, Nine New York Horses Potentially Exposed to Contagious Equine Metritis

Mon, 26 Jan 2009 08:53:00 -0500

New York State Agriculture Commissioner Patrick Hooker today alerted horse owners and breeders to the potential exposure of their horses to Contagious Equine Metritis (CEM), a contagious venereal disease of horses. Currently, there are nine known stallions outside of New York State that have tested positive for CEM and that have potentially exposed hundreds of other horses, including nine mares in New York State.

American Horse Council Press Release- Prevention of Equine Cruelty Act of 2009

Mon, 26 Jan 2009 08:30:58 -0500

On January 14, 2009 Representative John Conyers (D-MI) re-introduced the Prevention of Equine Cruelty Act of 2009 (H.R.503). The bill, which has sixty cosponsors, was referred to the House Committee on the Judiciary. Mr. Conyers is chairman of that committee.

Equine Science Center at Rutgers Schedules "Horses 2009"; Invites Veterinarians and Vet Techs to Participate. Educational Conference Provides 11 Hours of CE Credits

Thu, 22 Jan 2009 14:36:36 -0500

Horses 2009 is coming to Rutgers on Saturday, March 28, and Sunday, March 29, 2009, and will offer 11 hours of continuing education (CE) credits for veterinarians and veterinary technicians. The CE units have the approval of the American Association of Veterinary State Boards� Registry of Approved Continuing Education and are accepted for professionals practicing in numerous states, including New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Delaware and Maryland.

Equine Science Center Announces Scholarships

Tue, 20 Jan 2009 09:03:00 -0600

The Equine Science Center at Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, and the Department of Animal Sciences in the School of Environmental and Biological Sciences are alerting students to several scholarships that are available to individuals pursuing equine studies.

Memorandum To: AHC Member Organizations From: American Horse Council Re: Contagious Equine Metritis Outbreak Update

Thu, 15 Jan 2009 17:16:40 -0600

In December 2008, the Kentucky Department of Agriculture announced that a Quarter Horse stallion tested positive for Contagious Equine Metritis (CEM), a foreign animal disease not found in the United States, during routine testing for international semen shipment.

Press Release from the American Horse Council: Horse Transportation Safety Act of 2009

Tue, 13 Jan 2009 20:33:52 -0600

Horse Transportation Safety Act of 2009 On January 08, 2009, Representative Mark Kirk (R-IL) introduced the Horse Transportation Safety Act of 2009 (H.R. 305). The bill would prohibit the interstate transport of any horse in a double-deck truck.

Press Release from the American Horse Council: Input Is Still Needed In Unwanted Horse Coalition Nationwide Survey

Wed, 7 Jan 2009 10:12:53 -0600

Input Is Still Needed In Unwanted Horse Coalition Nationwide Survey The Unwanted Horse Coalition's National survey to assess the magnitude of the problem of the unwanted horse will remain open until the end of January 2009.

Press Release from the Unwanted Horse Council: Unwanted Horses: They Need Your Help

Tue, 6 Jan 2009 10:14:22 -0600

Unwanted Horses: They Need Your Help WASHINGTON, DC (January 6, 2009) - History has shown that when the economy falls on hard times, animals are among the first to suffer.