Julia Shrubb, MA VetMB CertAVP(EM) MRCVS, Ashbrook Equine Hospital. Equine asthma (also known as heaves or dust allergy and formerly known as COPD or RAO) is one of the most common causes of coughing and nasal discharge in stabled horses.  Equine asthma occurs when the horse's lungs over-react to inhaling allergens in the environment. It has many similarities to … [Read more...]

By Vicky Rowlands Cert. EP MRCVS – Ashbrook Equine Hospital, Cheshire. Sarcoids are a type of equine skin tumour that exist in the skin and the tissue layers immediately below the skin. They do not spread to internal organs. Unfortunately, we now recognise 2-8 % of horses in the UK have sarcoids. Interestingly, Europe seems to have a lower rate of sarcoids in their equine … [Read more...]

By Roger Dixon MRCVS - Ashbrook Equine Hospital, Cheshire To the frustration of many owners, some mares appear to be constantly in season. This can make ridden work very difficult and may affect the horse’s performance at competitions. The behaviour may be due to completely normal physiological events related to the mare’s oestrus cycle, or may be a sign of a more serious … [Read more...]

Roger Dixon BVM&S MRCVS - Ashbrook Equine Hospital, Cheshire Introduction Throughout spring and summer we frequently take phone calls from owners who find that their mare’s behaviour has changed. The mare may suddenly become difficult to handle. Ridden work, especially at competitions, may be impossible! These behavioural changes may be associated with the mare’s oestrus … [Read more...]

By Kerry Comb BVMS CertEP MRCVS www.ashbrookequinehospital.co.uk 01565 723030. First Aid and Equine Emergencies. Dealing with first aid and equine emergencies relies on being able to recognise a problem. Taking note of your horse’s normal demeanour and monitoring drinking, eating and the passage of urine and faeces will allow you to detect problems early. The vital signs - … [Read more...]