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5 hours ago

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Mid-Rivers Equine Centre

8 hours ago

🔬 Emergency Medicine: Hemodialysis Saves Horse with Red Maple Leaf Toxicity

In a groundbreaking case, veterinarians at Ohio State University successfully used hemodialysis (a medical procedure that filters waste, toxins, and excess fluids from the bloodstream when the kidneys are unable to perform this function) to treat a Quarter Horse mare suffering from acute kidney injury due to red maple leaf poisoning, a first for an adult horse.

The mare arrived at the hospital 12 hours after symptoms began, including lethargy, dark red mucous membranes, a rapid heart rate, and discolored urine. These clinical signs are consistent with red maple toxicosis, a condition caused by toxins in wilted red, sugar, and silver maple leaves. The toxins destroy red blood cells and can severely impair kidney function.

Despite initial treatment, including IV fluids, corticosteroids, and a blood transfusion, the mare’s kidney values were abnormal. At that point, the veterinary team initiated hemodialysis.

Throughout two well-tolerated dialysis sessions, the mare’s condition significantly improved. Her kidney markers normalized without the need for additional dialysis, and she went on to make a full recovery.

This case demonstrates that hemodialysis, although uncommon in equine medicine, may be a viable treatment option for horses with kidney dysfunction due to acute red leaf toxicity when traditional supportive care is insufficient. While not yet practical for chronic kidney disease management in horses, it may offer life-saving potential in acute toxicologic emergencies.

#EquineEmergencyMedicine #RedMapleLeafToxicity #EquineToxicosis #VeterinaryInnovation #HemodialysisInHorses #EquineKidneyCare #HorseHealthMatters #MidRiversEquine #VeterinaryMedicine #EquineCare #EquineInternalMedicine #AdvancedEquineCare #HorseOwners #EmergencyVetCare #ToxicPlantsAndHorses ... See MoreSee Less

Mid-Rivers Equine Centre

1 day ago

🧠🐴 Horses: More expressive than we ever imagined!

A new study reveals that horses use facial expressions similar to those of primates and carnivores during play, specifically the open-mouthed “play face.” This exaggerated look sends a clear message: “It’s all in good fun,” helping prevent rough-and-tumble play from turning into a real fight. In addition to an open mouth, the whites of their eyes are more prominent during this playtime. 🐎💥🌍

👀 More from the study:

The research team identified over 800 unique facial movements in horses.
Horses share facial muscle movements only previously seen in humans and gibbons.
The study could pave the way for a deeper understanding of equine emotions and pain.

📚 Discovery More: PeerJ Study on Horse Facial Expressions

#HorseScience #EquineBehavior #HorseHealth #HorseFacts #AnimalEmotions #PeerJ #FacialExpressions #EquineWelfare #HorsePlay ... See MoreSee Less

Mid-Rivers Equine Centre

2 days ago

🩺 First Aid Kit Essentials for Managing Horse Hives 🐴

Summer brings sunshine, longer rides, and, unfortunately, more skin irritants. Biting insects, allergens, and environmental triggers can cause equine hives, leaving your horse itchy, uncomfortable, and in need of quick relief.

If your horse develops hives or skin irritation, having a well-stocked first aid kit makes all the difference. Here’s what to include:

📌 Supplies
Antihistamines: Your veterinarian may prescribe or recommend over-the-counter antihistamines, such as cetirizine (Zyrtec), to reduce inflammation and itching. These should always be used under the guidance of a veterinarian.

Soothing shampoos: Opt for gentle formulas containing oatmeal, aloe, or anti-itch properties to help ease irritation and prevent further outbreaks.

Cold compresses: These provide immediate, temporary relief from swelling and discomfort.

📌 Prevention Tactics
Stay proactive to reduce recurring outbreaks:
✔️ Use fly sheets, masks, and stall fans to reduce insect contact
✔️ Keep stalls well-ventilated and clean to minimize dust and mold
✔️ Monitor feed for common allergens or recent changes
✔️ Adjust turnout schedules during high-allergen times of day

🔔 Important Reminder:
Always consult your veterinarian before starting any new treatments or medications. Your vet can help identify the underlying cause of your horse’s hives and create a targeted plan for relief and prevention.

#EquineHealth #HorseHives #HorseCareChecklist #VeterinaryApproved #HorseFirstAid #SummerHorseCare #BarnPreparedness #ItchyHorseHelp #FlyControlForHorses #EquineSkinCare #HealthyHorseHappyHorse #HorseOwnerTips #HorseGrooming #StableManagement #MidRiversEquine #HorseWellness #EquestrianEssentials ... See MoreSee Less

Mid-Rivers Equine Centre

3 days ago

We're Listening: What Causes White Line Disease in Horses?

A concerned follower asked a great question:
"My horse doesn't live in muck; his stall is clean and dry, no hoof trauma, no abscesses—so why did he develop white line disease? Could it be something in his diet?"

Let's dig into it.
White Line Disease (WLD) is one of those hoof conditions that can feel frustratingly mysterious. Despite what we do know, there's still no single cause. While wet, swampy paddocks and unclean stalls can certainly contribute to softening the hoof and allowing debris to pack into separations, WLD also appears in horses living in dry, well-managed environments. So no, you don't have to be standing in mud to be at risk.

So, what does cause it?
It usually starts with some form of hoof wall distortion, such as long toes, under-run heels, club feet, or sheared heels. These structural abnormalities can create tiny separations in the hoof wall. Once those gaps form, fungi and bacteria can infiltrate and begin breaking down the inner hoof wall.

In humid conditions, excessive moisture softens the hoof, making it easier for microbes to invade. In arid conditions, hooves can dry out and crack, again opening the door for WLD. In other words, both "too wet" and "too dry" can be problematic. Balance is key.

But what about diet?
Nutrition plays an indirect but important role. Horses on an inappropriate diet may grow weaker hoof horns that are more prone to cracking or separating. If your horse has WLD despite great living conditions, talk to your veterinarian about whether he's getting the right balance of biotin, methionine, zinc, and other hoof-health nutrients.

Thank you for the great question, Sharon!

#WhiteLineDisease #EquineHealth #HealthyHooves #HorseCareTips #EquineWellness #HoofCare #FarrierLife #HorseOwnerHelp #MidRiversEquine #EquineNutrition #PreventHoofProblems #VetRecommended #HorseHealthMatters #AskYourVet #EquestrianEducation ... See MoreSee Less

Mid-Rivers Equine Centre

4 days ago

It’s Farrier’s Week, Let’s Give Them a Helping Hoof 🐴🛠️

If your horse plants their hoof like it's set in concrete while you pull and plead, you’re not alone. A horse that refuses to lift their foot on cue is the picture of obstinance and the owner trying to coax that immovable leg... pure frustration.

One of the best gifts you can give your farrier (and yourself) is a horse that picks up its feet willingly and stands calmly. Here's how to get there:

🔍 Step One: Look for the Why
Before retraining, take a step back. Ask yourself why your horse might be resisting.

🐎 Could it be pain?
If your horse is reluctant to shift weight to a particular leg, check for heat, swelling, or signs of injury. Conditions like abscesses, soft tissue injuries, or even navicular changes can make hoof handling uncomfortable. When in doubt, call your vet.

📚 Step Two: Start Smart Retraining

If pain isn’t the issue, it’s time to work on retraining with patience and consistency.

Training your horse to lift their feet isn’t just about good manners. It’s about safety, trust, and respect—for you, your farrier, and your horse.

🎉 Don’t forget to tag your favorite farrier and say thanks!

#FarriersWeek #HealthyHooves #HorseCareTips #StandingStillIsAWin ... See MoreSee Less