Your data on MRCVSonline
The nature of the services provided by Vision Media means that we might obtain certain information about you.
Please read our Data Protection and Privacy Policy for details.

In addition, (with your consent) some parts of our website may store a 'cookie' in your browser for the purposes of
functionality or performance monitoring.
Click here to manage your settings.
EmailIphone Application    Posted: 22nd April 2014
If you would like to forward this story on to a friend, simply fill in the form below and click send.
Your friend's email:
Your email:
Your name:
 
 
Send Cancel

Sport horse health benefits from surfaces study
horse racing
Experts describe the optimum conditions to maintain performance and minimise injury risk.
Most extensive study yet looks at the effects of arena surfaces

Experts have carried out the most extensive study so far into the effect of arena surfaces on sport horse health.

Published by FEI, the four-year study brought together eight equine scientists from six universities in the UK, US and Sweden. They collaborated with three equine and racing research centres and two horse charities.

The Equine Surfaces White Paper gathered the latest data and published scientific papers to explore the effects of arena and turf surfaces on training and competition horses.

Authors describe the optimal composition, construction and maintenance of arenas to maximise equine performance, while minimising the risk of injury.

In order to guide and improve future competition and training surfaces for sport horses, the paper explains current methods of surface preparation and maintenance techniques, in a way that can be easily understood by riders, trainers, course designers and arena builders.

Key findings will be presented by Professor Lars Roepstorff from the Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences, at the FEI Sports Forum this month.

"We now have the latest scientific knowledge on equine surfaces contained in one place, thanks to an intensive global effort over several years," he said.

The white paper will be constantly updated with further knowledge and new scientific studies. Prof Roepstorff says this is "absolutely key as horse sport continues to grow around the world."

Become a member or log in to add this story to your CPD history

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.