EQUINE VIRAL RHINOPNEUMONITIS.

The equine viral rhinopneumonitis caused by a herpes virus is also referred to as rhino in horses,this is similar to common cold in humans. Respiratory disease in horses is one of the reasons for poor performance in race horses.The herpes infection though not usually fatal can be a prolonged infection.The virus causes abortion,foal death,neurological diseases and respiratory tract problems. Rhinopneumonitis is spread by aerosol,direct contact with secretions,utensils,drinking water contaminated by nasal secretions.The complication is usually by secondary bacterial infection which might result in death. SIGNS 1) Fever, 2)clear nasal discharge 3) coughing 4) abortions. PREVENTION. 1) Vaccination. Mares should be vaccinated at 5,7 and 9 month of gestation. 2)Isolation of affected horses. 3) strict bio security protocol. 4) antibiotic treatment for secondary bacteria infection.

Hay,horses and heaves.

Feeding horses a balanced meal is very essential for growth and performance.The source of these various feed components are very important and proper sourcing are very vital to health and then performance of the horse. It is a proven fact that thee performance of your horse is hinged on nutritional and management techniques. The feeding of hay is vital to growth of horses,but did you know that feeding moldy hay has an effect on horse respiratory status and performance? http://www.thehorse.com/articles/36464/the-connection-between-moldy-hay-and-heaves?utm_source=Newsletter&utm_medium=bluegrass-equine-digest&utm_campaign=09-27-2015