In this summer issue of UK-Vet Equine, veterinary surgeon and Founder of Barr Equine Veterinary Practice Elizabeth Barr discusses some common surgical conditions of the equine hoof, with a particular look at the practical considerations to keep in mind when operating on this unique anatomical site.
The Horserace Betting Levy Board codes of practice, set up in 1977, have been updated this year. Initially introduced in response to an outbreak of contagious equine metritis, the codes of practice have expanded to cover a range of diseases affecting equines. Associate Partner of Newmarket Equine Hospital Denis Coman discusses the changes to the code that have been introduced this year, which include clarification of the control of contagious equine metritis, revised guidelines for the management of strangles outbreaks, new guidelines on piroplasmosis, updated vaccination information focusing on the frequency with which equine influenza vaccine boosters are needed, and clarification regarding the diagnosis of West Nile fever; now considered a risk to the UK as the geographical distribution of the disease seems to be spreading and mosquitos capable of spreading the virus are becoming present in the UK.
Senior Information Scientist at the Veterinary Poisons Information Service Nicola Bates gives a timely reminder of some seasonal poisoning hazards that equine vets and nurses need to be aware of, including risks associated with adder bites and bee stings. As far as plants that affect equines, it is important to be aware of the effects of pyrrolizidine alkaloids that are found in plants such as ragwort and heliotrope, the potential toxic effects of ingesting bracken, and photosensitivity that develops when an animal becomes abnormally reactive to sunlight owing to the presence of a phototoxin or photoallergen on the skin. Photosensitivity can be caused by a range of plants including St John's wort, angelica and wild parsnip.
Clinical Director of Three Counties Equine Hospital Mark Georgetti summarises the management of injuries seen by racecourse veterinary surgeons, which are primarily musculoskeletal injuries. First aid and emergency treatment may be required in this situation, which may have to be carried out on the course or in the stables, or the horse may need to be transported to a referral centre.
Chartered Veterinary Physiotherapist Gillian Tabor outlines the physiotherapist's approach to assessment and treatment of back pain in horses; supporting veterinary care as part of the multidisciplinary team, with the aim of restoring painless optimal function. Successful physiotherapy will ensure that a horse is comfortable and capable of carrying a rider and is thus able to perform the functional tasks required.
European Specialist in equine veterinary anaesthesia Kate Loomes looks at the evaluation of equine anaesthetic risk. This has previously been largely based on the American Society of Anaesthesiologists physical status classification system, but a recent survey of experienced equine anaesthetists indicated that anaesthetic risk could also be based on patient factors and factors associated with the intended procedure, including positioning, anticipated duration and ability or desire to assist recovery.
We hope that you all manage to have a summer break. Enjoy this issue of UK-Vet Equine!