What is it
Ringworm is a fungal infection of
the skin which is highly contagious. It can transfer to humans.
Signs
- Tufts of
raised hair - these may be circular
- Hair falls
out about 10 days after infection
- Hair loss
leaves moist lesions which may be spotted with blood
- May be scabs
- Itching
Sites are usually on the head,
girth and shoulders.
Causes
Fungus is spread in many
ways.
- Flies,
mosquitoes or other biting insects
- Contaminated
boots, clothing, grooming kit, tack, from a person
- Horse to
horse, fences which have been rubbed by an infected horse, by a handler
Diagnosis
Ringworm can look similar to rainscald
and other skin conditions so it is important to be vigilant. A skin scraping can be taken which will be
examined under a microscope for the ringworm spores.
Treatment
Horses are contagious for 3 weeks
from time of infection. Therefore it is
vital to follow biosecurity measures to avoid spreading it further. Isolation, do not share grooming brushes,
tack, clothing etc. Do not touch a
healthy horse after touching an infected horse.
Do not turn out together.
Once scabs and scurfy skin has
been removed an anti-fungal solution can be applied - this may need to be
reapplied several times. All surfaces
will need treating with an anti-fungal solution to totally eradicate the
infection.
Horses with ringworm are not
permitted to compete.
Prevention
Isolate new horses for 2-3
weeks. If you suspect ringworm on
another horse isolate immediately and implement biosecurity (hygiene) measures.
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I needed cheering up today ....
Works every time :)
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This small draught or carriage
horse originates from Brittany in North-West France. The breed has a unique appearance and great endurance
due to the hard climate and poor quality grazing found in the area.
History
The Breton has an excellent
disposition and looks similar to the primitive Steppes horses. The breed was used to produce half bred work
horses which proved themselves very useful for farming. They were also popular in the military during
the middle ages due to their comfortable pace (part way between a brisk trot
and an amble). The Breton was then only
about 14hh. For the same reason they were also popular as a riding horse.
Throughout the centuries the
Breton has been crossed with other breeds resulting in 3 types :
- The Postier
is about 15hh and has a good, active trot as a result of Norfolk Trotter and
Hackney blood in the 19th century. Used
for light farm work.
- The Corlay
was influenced by Arab and Thoroughbred blood resulting in a lighter carriage
or riding horse. This type is rare.
- The Draught
Breton stands about 16hh and is a result of the introduction of Percheron,
Ardennais and Boulonnais blood. Used for
heavier farm work.
Characteristics
Height: Up to 16hh
Colour: Chestnut with flaxen mane
and tail is the most common but also blue and red roan, bay and occasionally
black.
Conformation: Thick set.
Head is square and the forehead wide.
The nose can be dished and ears are relatively small. Extremely strong neck and shoulders. The back is short and wide and the quarters
powerful. Legs are strong with plenty of
bone.
Temperament: Willing, kind and
adaptable.
Used for riding and farm work.
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What is it
Ringbone is a bony swelling below
the fetlock. High ringbone is found
near the pastern joint, low ringbone
near the coffin joint - which is often hidden by the hoof wall. Ringbone can occur on the joint surface,
where it is more painful or the joint capsule.
It is more common in the forelegs.
Signs
These vary depending on the type
of ringbone.
Initially:
- Heat
- Swelling
- Pain on
pressure
- Lameness
As the ringbone develops:
- Bony
swelling
- Pain when joint
moved and limit to mobility
Causes
- Conformational
faults
- Injury
- Stress and
strain
- Osteoarthritis
- Poor diet
Diagnosis
X-rays are used to diagnose
ringbone in its later stages - the joint surfaces are no longer smooth when it
is present. However, in the early stages
changes to the bone will be less obvious so flexion tests can be performed and
nerve blocking is useful too.
Treatment
Ringbone is usually a
degenerative disease so treatment is aimed at slowing the progression and to
manage the pain. Some horses can still
work, however, it varies from horse to horse.
- Anti-inflammatory
drugs to reduce pain and inflammation
- Remedial
shoeing to support the heels
- Joint injections
- Low level
regular exercise eg: turnout
Prevention
- Balanced
diet
- Correct
shoeing
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