The last two months have seen the year take a distinct turn towards winter, with the nights drawing in, the temperature dropping and rain on the increase – particularly in the wake of Storm Babet. Our thoughts are with those who have been affected by the flooding caused by the storm.
Although the rain will benefit horse owners in terms of helping their grass after the hot and dry (ish!) summer, it may lead to fields getting churned up – and owners of light-coloured horses will likely need to pull out a rain sheet to keep their horses clean! Horses are often stabled for longer periods of time over winter, which can lead to an increase in respiratory issues as a result of the increased dust and decreased air flow (Simões et al, 2020). In this issue, Neza Adamič discusses how mesenchymal stem cells may have applications in chronic lung disease (p218), providing a detailed overview on the therapeutic potential of these cells to treat the most common equine lung diseases.
Owners may also find that horses with osteoarthritis may struggle with the increased time in the stable – longer periods of limited movement can cause these horses to become stiff and sore (British Horse Society, 2023). Emily Clarke and Mandy Peffers examine the therapeutic potential of extracellular vesicles in relation to osteoarthritis (p254). These cells may carry biomarkers of the disease and may even have a place in regenerative therapies – though there is still much more research to be done in this area.
Parasite management is an ongoing issue in the equine world, with many livery yards using a blanket approach to worming despite the evidence suggesting that this will contribute to anthelmintic resistance (McTigue et al, 2022). Jacqueline Matthews and Corinne Austin look into various methods of testing a horse's worm burden – from saliva tests for tapeworm to the tape test for pinworm – and discuss how diagnostic testing, along with good pasture management, can ensure that horses are only treated when necessary. Employing a more sustainable approach to worming (found on p231) will help limit anthelmintic resistance and ensure horses are not chemically treated for worms unnecessarily.
The cryopreservation of equine embryos has become increasingly popular, particularly when breeding from top-class mares, as it allows these mares to be bred from without impacting their athletic career (Doyle et al, 2022). Sandra Wilsher discusses the cryopreservation and vitrification of embryos over 300 μm in diameter (p242), as well as providing the history of these techniques. She also highlights the latest techniques and methodologies, providing a well-rounded review designed to make embryo vitrification less daunting for new practitioners.
Being an equine veterinarian, owner or carer over the winter comes with its own set of challenges – least of all being ‘How do I attempt to stay warm and dry when it's raining sideways and 5°C above freezing?’. Although we may technically have another few weeks of autumn, I for one will be dusting off my thick gloves and waterproofs in preparation for the cold that is no doubt on its way – and I am sure you will be too!