HEALTH & EDUCATION

Health & Education

We all want the best care possible for our horses. The Heath & Education section covers both Learning Institutions, Organizations as well as many sources for equine assistance including Veterinarians and Farriers.

For those who want a to formally study horses, the Education section includes College Riding, Equine Studies, and Veterinary Schools. Learn about the wide variety of horses in the Horse Breeds section. Supplements and Treatments Therapy are also included in the section.

Everyone can learn from Fine Art and there are some specialty Museums that might surprise you.

Horses as a therapy partner enrich the lives of the disabled. These facilities are listed in our Therapeutic Riding section. To help children and young adults build confidence and grow emotionally, please see the resources available on the Youth Outreach page.

Looking for a place to keep your horse? You can find it in the Horse Boarding section. Traveling? Find a Shipping company or Horse Sitting service if your horse is staying home!

Want to stay up to date with the latest training clinics or professional conferences? Take a look at our Calendar of Events for Health & Education for the dates and locations of upcoming events.

Do we need to add more? Please use the useful feedback link and let us know!

Photos courtesy of the Horses of Iceland

The Icelandic horse is one of the most colorful breeds in the world.

The Icelandic horse has over 40 colors and up to 100 variations and, with only few exceptions, most of the known horse colors can be found within the breed. This fact adds both to the charming look of the Icelandic horse and to variation within the breed. Not only are all colors allowed in the studbook, but variety is encouraged, as the official breeding goal is simply to preserve all colors naturally occurring in the breed.

Although the commonly known statement “a good horse has no color” is true to a degree, people often have their favourites and will discuss the range and characteristics of colors extensively.

COLORS AND GENETICS

The Icelandic horse has 40 different colors and up to 100 variations.

The most common colors are red (chestnut) and black (brown). All horses have a base colour that can vay from black, red/chestnut or bay. Black horses can be either heterozygote – containing both the red and black genes – or fully black, where red offspring would be impossible. The red base color comes when both parents give the red gene, but it is not a dominant gene, meaning it only shows as red when in homozygote state, that is, when inherited from both parents. Therefore, if both parents are red, the foal can only be red.

VARIATIONS OF COLOR

On top of these base colors come all the variations, like skewbald, dun, palomino, grey, silver dapple, splash-skewbald and roan. These can often also be combined so the same horse can have a black base color, but have both the dun gene and the silver dapple gene, making the outcome much lighter than the base color prescribes. Grey can come on top of all colors and basically means that the horses turn white with age.

The silver dapple variation is hidden in the red base color, so although not shown, it can be present and inheritable. In bay and black base colors, it lightens the mane and tail as well as the body to some degree, causing the famous “chocolate color” when the base color is black. Although very pretty, it is crucial to breed silver dapple horses carefully as a link has been found between multiple congenital ocular anomalies (MCOA) and this color when the horse is homozygote.

A red roan horse, a palomino horse and a silver dapple horse. Photos by Gunnar Freyr, Christiane Slawik and Liga Liepina.

The rarest color variations found in Icelandic horses are sabino and roan. Until 2003, no sabino variation had ever been seen within the breed but a mare was then born in Germany with a specific sabino mutation. In 2013, a second, different sabino mutation occurred, this time in Iceland and in a stallion. Every Icelandic sabino horse can now be traced to one of those two horses.

Ellert frá Baldurshaga, born 2013, has a W21 mutation. Photo: Daniel Larsen

The second rarest color variation of Icelandic horses is roan. Icelandic roans are often called color-changers, because the horses with this variation show their “real” color in summer coat as well as in full winter coat, but in spring and autumn the middle layer in their coat has no color, and is, in other words, white.

On top of all the possible colors and variations, multiple add-ons such as a blaze, star, snip, socks or other markings can also be found within the Icelandic horse breed, making each horse as unique on the outside as on the inside.

This article originally appeared on The Horses of Iceland and is published here with permission.

You can find more interesting articles in our section on Health & Education.

The following is an excerpt from Mini School – Train Your Mini to Be All He Can Be, by Sabine Ellinger

Today’s stylish and perfectly proportioned Miniature Horses are the product of nearly 400 years of selective breeding. Classically elegant, gentle by nature, and appealing to people of all abilities, sizes, and ages, this small and unique equine stands no taller than 34 inches at the withers as measured from the last hairs of the mane. The American Miniature Horse Association (AMHA) has established an official “Standard of Perfection” in which the general impression of the Miniature Horse should be “A small, sound, well-balanced horse, possessing the correct conformation characteristics required of most breeds, [including] refinement and femininity in the mare [and] boldness and masculinity in the stallion. The general impression should be one of symmetry, strength, agility, and alertness. Since the breed objective is the smallest possible perfect horse, preference in judging shall be given to the smaller horse, other characteristics being approximately equal (www. amha.org).

The Importance of Conformation

Severe conformation flaws can still occur but not to the extent that was the case 20 years ago. The modern-day Mini has been bred with more emphasis placed on his suitability for driving and riding. Quality of the gaits, jumping ability, conformation, and temperament have all been enormously improved in the past two decades because in addition to the suitability for specific disciplines, breeders have put a strong emphasis on breeding and creating a cooperative and friendly a Mini as possible.

Conformation flaws usually won’t really affect a Mini’s ability to perform tricks, but they can pose difficulties when training him in dressage, driving, or jumping. Minis often do not have ideal conformation because many breeders select their breeding stock with a focus on small size rather than on other physical parameters. Poorly set necks, improperly angled or weak hindquarters, a lack of room in the throatlatch, and bad bone structure can make training and conditioning a Mini for an equestrian discipline much more difficult and in some cases nearly impossible.

The same criteria that apply to the conformation of full-size horses are relevant in Minis. Thick throatlatches limit the horse’s ability to flex at the poll, weak hindquarters hinder collection, and crooked legs make the horse less resilient over time. The Mini’s smaller size and the fact that he is not ridden—or at least not ridden to the same degree his full-size cousin is—makes the severity of the problems relative.

Evaluating Conformation

When selecting a Mini for training, the buyer should choose one that resembles a “scaled-down” version of a normal-size riding horse. With a critical eye, you’ll want to evaluate the following points:

Head

A Mini should have a kind face with big, expressive eyes. You can tell a lot about his character just by looking at his facial expression. The shape of the head is not so important but a “clean” throatlatch is crucial. A thick throatlatch makes it very difficult for a Mini to “give” at the poll, which should be as moveable as a ball bearing. Wide cheek bones combined with a thick throatlatch area are quite common and are unfortunately very limiting.
Neck

A correctly shaped neck enables correct contact with the bit and the handler’s hands, and thus establishes a better connection with the Mini. Ewe-necks, “swan necks” (those that are unusually long and set on too high), and low-set necks are much more difficult to work with to achieve an optimal connection with the Mini’s mouth. The neck should be wide at the base, set relatively high, and should taper gradually and harmoniously up to the poll.
Shoulders

An elastic, swinging stride can only come out of a well-angled, sloping shoulder. Minis with upright shoulders tend to hurry and “shuffle along.”
Back

A well-shaped, gently curved back of an appropriate length facilitates dressage and driving training. The development of impulsion (forward thrust generated by the hindquarters) and carrying capacity (ability of the hindquarters to assume more of the Mini’s weight and reverse his natural heaviness on the forehand), and everything else that comes from the hind end relies on a “swinging” and supple back. Swaybacks and roach backs are stiff and inflexible, making it harder for the Mini to perform.
Croup

If a croup-high Mini is asked to collect (an optimal state of balance with more weight over his lowered hindquarters and with a gently rounded topline), he must expend vastly more energy than one with better hind end conformation. Most collected movements, depending on the degree of collection required, may not be possible for a croup-high Mini.
Hindquarters

The hindquarters are the Mini’s engine! It is hard for a Mini to compensate for conformational flaws in this area. Correctly angled hind legs make collection immensely easier. The hindquarters should be as broad as possible from the top down in order to allow enough room for optimal muscle development.
Bone Structure

The Mini’s legs carry his body. For him to withstand work, he should have clean legs and feet. They should be straight and without serious conformational defects. The legs will have to withstand stress if the Mini is to jump, or perform collected movements or “airs above the ground”. More pronounced joints are usually more resilient. Otherwise the legs should be “clean” with no spongy spots or bumps.

Although you may not care to always be “looking for a problem,” you must be able to recognize and evaluate conformational faults in a prospective Mini purchase. There are some that do not hinder a Mini’s training and should not discourage a buyer. However, there are others that make any sort of work—in hand or in harness—a constant challenge, despite the Mini’s best efforts. Such a Mini must work many times harder to achieve the same results as one with good conformation. When you are informed about what good and poor conformation looks like in a Mini, you will be better able to create a training program that is suitable for the Mini with whom you are working.

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This excerpt from Mini School was published with permission from Trafalgar Square Books. You can also visit them at Horse & Rider Books.

There a more really interesting books on riding and all aspects of equestrian living in our section on Books.

Julie Goodnight shows you the proper and safe way to handle or hold the horse for the Vet or Farrier

For more information on the largest certifying body of riding instructors and barn managers in North America, Certified Horsemanship Association, please visit www.CHA.horse.

Julie Goodnight shows the proper fit and adjustment of the Running and Standing Martigale.

Understand signs of colic in horses and horse colic treatment recommendations

Colic is a potentially fatal condition that is on every horse owner’s mind. The severity of colic ranges from simple abdominal pain to potentially life-threatening, sometimes requiring surgical treatment.

On an annual basis, for every 100 horses, there will be 4.2 colic events; 1.2 percent will require surgery and some 11 percent of cases will be fatal, according to the American Association of Equine Practitioners and the National Animal Health Monitoring System (NAHMS).

Causes of Colic in Horses

Caused by any number of factors, colic can be categorized by impaction colic, when feed materials build up in the gut of the horse. This is often caused by coarse feed, poor water intake, or a block in the digestive tract. Also common is gas colic, when the microbes in the colon excessively produce amounts of gas. This can be caused by changes in feed. A shift in the colon can cause the intestines to flip or twist, leading to impactions and gas build-up. When the colon twists, emergency surgery is immediately required. Ulcers, poor motility and blood supply also contribute to the condition.

Signs of Colic in Horses

There are varying symptoms of colic in horses:

Looking at, scratching or kicking the abdomen
Pacing
Pawing
Sweating
Lying down and rolling, at times violently
Posturing to urinate without normal urine output
Decreased interest in hay and grain
Heart rate more than 45 beats per minute
Discolored mucous membranes

Steps to Take with Colic in Horses

If you notice mild signs and suspect your horse may be experiencing colic, immediately bring him to a confined area to closely monitor him. Watch for any change in attitude, signs of pain or manure output. Walking your horse can provide pain relief and help your horse, if he is experiencing cramps or colic. Doing so also helps prevent your horse from rolling. Discontinue walking if you notice that doing so progresses the pain and overall symptoms.

If your horse continues to display these symptoms and act abnormally, call your veterinarian. And if you have not observed your horse in several hours and notice these symptoms, immediately contact your veterinarian, as it is possible your horse has experienced colic for an extended period of time.

What to do While Waiting for Your Veterinarian

Remove your horse’s access to feed.
Take your horse’s vitals to share with your veterinarian.
Walk your horse to help prevent rolling and further damage (again, only if it does not cause him more pain).

Colic Treatment

Fortunately, more than 80 percent of colic types have positive outcomes when treated on the farm. Prescription medications for colic help ease abdominal pain and reduce inflammation. Banamine and Buscopan are the industry go-tos for providing mild pain relief. The antispasmodic properties of Buscopan help with gas-related colic, spasmodic colic, and some impactions. Phenylbutazone also can reduce inflammation and relieve some pain from colic. Digestive supplements, like Succeed, also help support a healthy digestive system for reduced colic risk.

DEALING WITH ON-FARM PET INJURIES + WHAT TO LOOK FOR, STEPS TO TAKE

When it comes to injuries stemming from large animals and livestock, they can range from mild, requiring dogs only rest for a few days, to life threatening. “We’ve seen dogs with head trauma from horses or cows, and even limb amputations after getting too close to a mower bar. We’ve definitely seen some things,” said Paul DeMars, DVM, DABVP, clinical associate professor at Oklahoma State University’s College of Veterinary Medicine.

All dogs (even those well-trained) can be at risk for injuries stemming from horses and livestock, as their instincts ultimately play the largest role in their behavior.

“My dogs are well-trained, agility dogs. They are always good and are well-trained not to chase horses. However, I had a dog that fell victim [to injury from livestock],” said Kris Hiney, Ph.D., Oklahoma State University associate professor and Extension equine specialist.

Dr. Hiney was out one evening feeding, with one of her three agility-trained dogs by her side --- a Border Collie named Avispa --- when her horse at the other end of the field began galloping not toward her and the feed bucket, but straight toward her dog. She gave her command for Avispa to recall, but his Border Collie instincts kicked in, and he crouched into the grass. As the horse neared, the horse lowered his head and curled up his front legs, intentionally coming down directly onto Avispa.

Dr. Hiney quickly bundled up Avispa and went to an emergency veterinary clinic. Thankfully, he pulled through and is fine today.

“The reality of horses and dogs is something not to take lightly,” said Dr. Hiney. “Some owners may not realize how badly a dog can get hurt. A lot of horses are dangerous with dogs. Cattle don’t seek them out as much, unless dogs are in their space. It is 100% instinctual, as even well-trained dogs who do this for a living can get kicked, and they can be severely injured when working cattle.”

Should your dog experience an injury, Dr. DeMars recommends you monitor, immediately, if they are:

Up on all legs and mobile
Favoring any limbs
Experiencing any seizures
Completely conscious

“If animal is unconscious, get them to your veterinarian right away,” said Dr. DeMars. “Even if an animal is up on all four legs, there still could be internal bleeding, and he could be falling over two hours later, dead. Taking your dog to your veterinarian is always the best answer.”

Steps to take, should your dog be injured:

Share pictures with your veterinarian.
Before driving to the clinic, use your cellphone to take pictures of the injury or wound, and share with your veterinarian. This will help the office prepare for your dog’s arrival and for swift treatment.
Have a 24-hour emergency veterinary clinic on speed dial.
If your dog experiences head trauma, he requires precise care and likely, 24-hour monitoring, which is not always an option at a primary veterinary clinic. For such cases, it is best to immediately take your dog to the nearest emergency veterinary clinic or University veterinary school.
Refer to your stocked first-aid kit.
Assist wounds to help stop any bleeding. If it’s a leg injury, wrap the leg just as you would wrap a horse’s leg (apply a sterile lube, then gauze and then cover with vet wrap or bandages, going in the direction of front to back with gentle support --- not too tight or too loose).
In some cases, use direct pressure.
If your dog experiences heavy bleeding, he could be suffering from a ruptured artery. Apply direct pressure to help stop excess blood loss. Get to your veterinarian, fast.

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INCREASE SAFETY FOR DOGS ON FARM OR IN THE BARN + TRAINING TIPS

For years, Dr. Hiney has trained dogs for agility. She has three Australian Shepherds and one Border Collie. When it comes to working cattle, Dr. Hiney says, “Just because they’re a herding dog doesn’t mean they are naturally good around livestock. It means they have intense interest in livestock, and that interest has to be channeled through training.”

While any dog can learn to be good around livestock, it is important to realize that cattle dogs, for instance the Blue Heeler, Catahoula and Corgi, will be attracted to it and stimulated by the livestock’s movement. “A lot of people think dogs can help while working cattle, but only a trained dog is helpful. An untrained dog creates more chaos and anxiety from both livestock and people. If your dog isn’t trained, he needs to be secured. Tie or pen them up safely out of the way, with water.”

Training tips from Dr. Hiney to increase your dog’s safety:

For cattle dogs, talk to dog trainers who do herding and cattle dog training.
Professional cattle dog training offers a safe space for your dog’s learning, by working with livestock that are “dog broke,” meaning they know how to move from a dog’s pressure. They also can start them on sheep and goats, for a safer option. While a cow dog is bred instinctually to herd, they will benefit both mentally and physically from professional lessons and training to channel their instinctual habits into more strategized skills.
For barn dogs, seek out training options.
Check your surrounding area for professional dog training classes. Keep in mind, well-mannered dogs are often welcome at horse shows and barns; however, a misbehaving dog nipping or barking is a quick way to be shown the door. In today’s world, there are even online dog training options available, and the World Wide Web is filled with helpful training videos as an option, too.
Teach dogs the basics.
Dogs among livestock and horses should know commands for recall, down and stay. Teach them the boundaries of what they can and cannot do. They will look to you for the correct answers.
Don’t let “funny” and “cute” behaviors fly.
Allow no recreational cattle or horse chasing, barking or nipping at all, if you can avoid it. This ‘playtime’ can easily turn problematic.
Use positive training methods that reward good behavior.
Use treats, toys and your undivided attention to make training the most rewarding and fun part of their day. This will keep them happy and engaged with you to make the best choices.
During training, keep them on a long line before rewarding them with off-leash.
For their safety’s sake, not returning to you cannot be an option. Using long lines (essentially a long leash) can prevent bad habits from forming. This is a best practice before letting your dogs off-leash.

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