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Airway disease in racehorses more common than thought
Developing an improved understanding of IAD could lead to better health in horses and a more competitive horse racing industry.
Improved understanding could lead to better horse health

A study by Canadian researchers has found that inflammatory airway disease (IAD) in racehorses is more common than previously thought.

In the study, researchers examined lung tissue from 95 deceased racehorses that had actively raced or trained before their deaths. They found that most of the horses had some degree of IAD, with mild to severe airway changes.

The discovery came as a surprise to the team, since previous studies had suggested the disease only occurred in up to half of equine athletes.  

“The disease was known to be common in racehorses, but not as widespread as this study reveals,” said study author Professor Jeff Caswell. “The findings suggest that IAD does not result from unique exposure of an affected horse to the stimulus that causes the disease. But rather the research suggests that all racehorses may be exposed, with inflammation of the airways experienced by many”.

Published in the American Journal of Veterinary Research, the study was the first of its kind to assess information on a tissue level. It was also the first to discover airway inflammation in horses not specifically chosen for poor performance.

“None of the deceased horses showed obvious signs of airway inflammation in their final three races,” said co-author Professor Luis Arroyo. “The research shows that inflammation is always prevalent in racehorses, even those that may or may not have respiratory signs.”

The researchers hope that developing an improved understanding of IAD could lead to better health in horses and a more competitive horse racing industry.

The study - Histologic investigation of airway inflammation in postmortem lung samples from racehorses - was conducted by researchers at the Ontario Veterinary College, University of Guelph.

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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.