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Colic risk for horses moved from pasture to stabling
Image horse
Horses moved from pasture to stabling drank nearly twice as much as before, but produced fewer and drier droppings.
First five days after change is a "high risk period", researchers say

Moving horses from pasture to stabling could be a key risk factor for colic onset in horses, according to new research.

A study by the University of Nottingham found horses moved from pastures to stabling drank significantly more, but produced far fewer and drier droppings during the first five days after being moved.

Colic is the most common emergency problem and one of the leading causes of death in horses. While it is known that colic often occurs after abrupt changes in management, previous research has not looked into how this affects the gut.

The second most common cause of colic is colonic obstruction and distension (SCOD), or impaction. This is a build up of dried feed within the intestine, resulting in blockages.

The study involved seven military horses at the Defence Animal Centre in Melton Mowbray, Leicestershire. Horses were monitored 24 hours a day at pasture and for 14 days following the change to stabling with light controlled exercise.

Findings published in the Equine Veterinary Journal indicate that after the horses were moved to stables, they drank nearly twice as much as previously, but there were significantly fewer, drier droppings.

Leading the research, Dr Sarah Freeman said the changes were "rapid and marked", and most significant in the five days after the change in management. She said: "We think this represents the high risk period for colic."

While the horses drank more when stabled, Dr Freeman explained this did not compensate for the change of diet and environment. "There was both slowing down of gut motility and drying out of gut contents," she added.

It is not yet clear from the research whether colic is caused by the dehydration of food, changes in contractions of the gastrointestinal tract or both.

At some point, all horses will be moved from pastures to stabling, whether because of injury, poor weather or new livery.

Dr Freeman says the results of the study are a "significant step toward understanding why horses develop impaction colic when stabled."

While it is known that abrupt changes in management can cause colic, the affects on the gut were previously unknown. Dr Freeman concluded: "We hope that the results will help vets and horse owners modify management to reduce these problems."

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Webinar to explore history of KC breed registers

News Story 1
 A free webinar exploring the development of the Kennel Club's registration system and the evolution of closed breed registers has been announced.

Hosted by Dr Alison Skipper, veterinary and research advisor at the Kennel Club, the webinar will delve into the development of the registry and how the changing landscape of scientific knowledge has shaped breeding practices. It will also look at what this means for the future of pedigree dogs.

The session will culminate with a look at The Kennel Club's ongoing and future engagement in this area, with a chance for attendees to put forward their thoughts and questions for discussion.

This event takes place on Microsoft Teams on Tuesday, 10 June at 7pm. To learn more, visit events.teams.microsoft.com  

Click here for more...
News Shorts
UK's BSE risk status downgraded

The WOAH has downgraded the UK's international risk status for BSE to 'negligible'.

Defra says that the UK's improved risk status recognises the reputation for having the highest standards for biosecurity. It adds that it demonstrates decades of rigorous animal control.

Outbreaks of Bovine Spongiform Encephalopathy, also known as mad cow disease, have previously resulted in bans on Britain's beef exports.

The UK's new status could lead to expanded trade and better confidence in British beef.

Christine Middlemiss, the UK's chief veterinary officer, said: "WOAH's recognition of the UK as negligible risk for BSE is a significant milestone and is a testament to the UK's strong biosecurity measures and the hard work and vigilance of farmers and livestock keepers across the country who have all played their part in managing the spread of this disease.