MQ Training

NVHS - Part 1 Photo collection by RusticWings Photography

With temperatures projected to soon reach triple digits for the first time this year, here are some important tips to prevent heat-related problems in horses:

1. Know the signs of fatigue and overheating.
2. Keep your horse hydrated.
3. Keep a supply of water available for your horse to drink.
4. Provide salt and electrolytes as needed.
5. Limit exertion during peak heat.
6. Optimize ventilation in the trailer.
7. Plan ahead for trailering.
8. Provide shade.
9. Ensure good air circulation in barns.
10. To lower body temperature, hose off your horse or pour a bucket of water over your horse.

Mythbusters:
* It is a myth that if a hot horse drinks water, it will experience colic or other medical problems.
*Research has shown that sweat scraping, or removing water from the horse’s coat, is not necessary. Failing to remove excess water will not make your horse any hotter or have detrimental effects on health.

Image description: Close up of bay horse with green and black halter getting a bath with blue sky and green trees in the background.

Thank you so much for having me as your trail judge! This show had a HUGE turnout. I loved seeing all the riders try their best. What a wonderful day. 🐴 🏆

The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) has provided an important update on New World Screwworm which has been detected in a bovine in Zavala County, Texas. Read the full press release here: https://www.aphis.usda.gov/news/agency-announcements/usda-confirms-presence-new-world-screwworm-united-states

General information about New World Screwworm (NWS) can be found in the text below and in the attached infographic.

The adult screwworm fly is about the size of a common housefly (or slightly larger), with orange eyes, a metallic blue or green body, and three dark stripes along its back. It gets its name from the behavior of its larvae (maggots) as they burrow (screw) into the wound, feeding as they go. The maggots (larvae) cause extensive damage by tearing at the hosts’ tissue with sharp mouth hooks. The wound can quickly become enlarged and deeper as more maggots hatch and feed on living tissue.

Because they feed on live flesh, NWS maggots may burrow deep into wounds or openings, while other species of maggots may appear around the outer surface of the wound. In addition, even the smallest wounds have the potential to attract flies, so it is imperative that you keep a close eye on your animals for any signs of wounds.

Lastly, NWS infestations are a reportable disease! Immediately report any suspicious wounds, maggots, or infestations to a local accredited veterinarian, your State Animal Health Official, or a USDA veterinarian.

For more information, reference this resource from the U.S. Department of Agriculture: https://www.aphis.usda.gov/animals/animal-health/livestock-and-poultry-disease/stop-screwworm