Search

In recent years, professionals in equine therapy have frequently faced challenges in the pursuit of evidence-based scientific knowledge to provide the best interventions for participants in this method. The aim of this study was to survey scientific research published on the topic of equine therapy in Brazil. An integrative literature review was conducted using the term "Equoterapia" in the Google Scholar and Scielo databases, with no restrictions on year or sample. A total of n=343 articles were selected following inclusion and exclusion criteria. The results indicated an increase in publications over the years. Among the fields contributing to equine therapy research, Physiotherapy stood out with the highest number of publications (n=127). In the majority of studies, the methodology was qualitative (n=210), and a significant portion of the research did not utilize measurement instruments (n=172). The journal Fisioterapia Brasil had the highest number of publications (n=13). In conclusion, there has been a growth in publications on Equine Therapy over the years. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The objective of the current study is to determine the effects of intravenous application of ozone on blood biometrics and blood chemistry in clinically health and horses. The research was descriptive and experimental, of a transversal type. Also, the type of sampling was non-probabilistic of convenience, where fourteen animals were selected, and distributed in three groups: A and B, made up of six animals each, and group C, made of two animals. Ozone was applied using the major autohemotherapy. The blood was obtained from the jugular vein (400 ml), using the SANO3® Kit Copyright 2017, Paolo Gobbi Frattini, Srl Italy (all rights reserved). The animals were sampled 24 hours before the first application of ozone, and 24 hours after each application. A sampling was carried out fifteen days after the last application, for a total of seven samplings and five applications of ozone per animal. From the obtained samples the hemograms and hematic biochemical components were determined, ALT, AST, ALP, total proteins, albumin, BUN, total bilirubin and direct bilirubin. Next, results and differences for each variable were presented. It was concluded that the application of ozone at therapeutic doses did not cause negative alterations in the hematology and blood biochemistry of equines. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this article is to show how in some films that we consider to be part of the filmic personalism of classical Hollywood the presence of animals such as horses and dogs is that of authentic characters that interact with the human protagonists, and that move the plot forward. We see that even the intervention of these animals brings about a moral improvement in their owners. This is evident in the work of Frank Capra, especially in his feature film Broadway Bill (1934) and its remake Riding High (1951). In both films, the racehorse Broadway Bill becomes increasingly prominent. On the one hand, his loyalty, and the abnegation to which it leads him, suppose a moral breath in the corrupt world of the races. On the other, he becomes an emblem of values worth living for. Faced with the temptation of a safe and uninspiring life, the horse proposes a life based on joy, risk, self-improvement, and adventure, which will lead its owner to renew in a more authentic way his sense of marriage and family. In the twentieth century Jacques Derridá claimed that philosophers had not conceived of animals in their individuality, much less let themselves be looked at by them. Filmic personalism goes a step further because it takes up a positive fact that is part of the experience of many people in their dealings with dogs, cats, horses, etc.: they have relationships of affection and friendship with them. Animal life in our century, as Stanley Cavell points out, demands from us new ways of approaching reality, not only as an ethical imperative, but, above all, as an expression of a way of living that is more in keeping with our aspiration for the best. Filmic personalism leads to a personalist ecologism in which the experience of friendship and care for animals must be extended to a mentality of care for life on our planet, even more threatened as it is by our model of economic development. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The objective of this study was to determine the Caslick index in Peruvian Paso horse mares and its relationship with the conformation of the croup. It was found that the majority of the mares had a high tail set and an average Caslick index of 42.68. No relationship was found between tail set and the Caslick index, nor was there a correlation between age and croup inclination vs. the Caslick index. However, a negative correlation was found between the number of foals and the Caslick index. [Extracted from the article]

This paper explores the history and political significance of black horsemen and horsewomen, using the appearance of mounted protesters at the 2020 Black Lives Matter rallies in the US to consider the role of the horse as both an adjunct of authority, in symbol and in material power, and as a partner in forms of protest and resistance. This paper begins with the brute power of the horse, and through its military and policing duties, its role supporting state authority. But we underline the racial framing of "the man on horseback," using this figure not merely as a metaphor for military authority but as a representation of racialized power and as an adjunct to racial regimes. The significance of this figure is explored through the history of black horse riders and the "threat" that the image of the black rider poses to majority white culture. We examine the political value of placing black horse riders in the position of authority long claimed by white men and celebrated in public statuary and in art. The final section considers the black horsewoman, however, warning against disconnecting the martial model of masculinity from gender privileges as well as racial ones. The paper uses the example of black horsewomanship to argue for a better understanding of the partnership between human and nonhuman. In the performative politics of assembly that we call "political dressage" we suggest a distinctively more-than-human variety of "counter-conduct." [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Neospora spp. is a protozoan parasite that causes abortions and diseases in the Central Nervous System (CNS) of several domestic and wild animal species. In horses, this parasite causes abortions, neonatal mortality, and CNS diseases. The Neospora species identified in horses is different from Neospora caninum and is called Neospora hughesi. This study aimed to detect the presence of anti-Neospora spp. antibodies associated with different risk factors in horses from Mexico. Risk factors were identified by surveying each stable and individual animal from four different regions (Center, North, West, and South). A total of 684 serum samples were obtained from horses in the different regions, 52.3 % (358) males and 47.7 % (326) females. Samples were subjected to an indirect immunofluorescence (IIF) assay; results were analyzed to estimate the association between seropositivity and risk factors. The seroprevalence of Neospora spp. was 2.34 %. The positive cases were mainly found in three of the four regions included in this study and were significantly associated with anti-Neospora spp. antibodies. The coexistence of the horses with other animals obtained an OR value of 2.34 (95% CI: 0.28 - 19.0; P<0.04). This study concludes that Neospora spp. is present in horses from Mexico. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective. To determine the haematological parameters according to the reproductive status of Peruvian Paso horses in the Province of Lambayeque. Materials and methods. The research was conducted on 60 clinically healthy adult horses (> 4 years), without previous drug treatment. Four groups of 15 horses were formed: gelding, entire male, empty mare and pregnant mare. First, a general clinical examination was performed to confirm their good health. Blood was drawn from the jugular vein of all the horses. The samples were processed by haematological analysis and the parameters of the red series (haemoglobin, haematocrit, red blood cells, mean corpuscular volume [MCV], mean corpuscular haemoglobin [MCH] and the mean corpuscular haemoglobin concentration [MCHC] were determined. Likewise, the white series (leukocytes, neutrophils segmented and stacked, basophils, monocytes, lymphocytes, eosinophils) and the thrombocytic series were processed and the unit range determined. Manual methods, mathematical formulas and the Drabkin method were used in the clinical pathology laboratory. The Kruskal Wallis Statistical test was applied and consequently the mean, standard deviation and ranges of variables were obtained. Results. No significant statistical differences were found in the white, red and thrombocytic series according to sex or reproductive status, except the number of basophils was higher in the entire males. Conclusions. The haematological parameters according to the reproductive status of the Peruvian Step horse are within the normal ranges (as per the literature pertaining to this area). However, the number of lymphocytes was much lower. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Knowledge of newly identified and well established adverse drug reactions (ADR) in horses will limit the amount of iatrogenic medical interventions, and will hasten recovery of equine patients from a given disease. ADRs can occur at any given time and under a great variety of clinical settings. However, if clinicians reinforce their continuous education on this subject, and become aware of the underlying mechanisms that induce ADRs they can both administer drugs with a greater margin of safety and certainly, predict the likelyhood of the presentation of ADRs. In turn, clinicians will be capable of suggesting the use of an alternative drug. The aim of this review is to bring up-to-date the reported knowledge on ADRs in horses, identifying the modus operandi, the incidence, the possible extension of the organic damage and when possible, the adequate treatment. It is our hope that busy equine practitioners and their patients will benefit from this retrospective analysis of ADRs in horses. This review also attempts to encourage practitioners to report new ADRs that will enrich the knowledge of pharmacological peculiarities of drugs used in equine practice. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The objective of this experiment was to evaluate a glycogenic feed additive in terms of performance and response in blood metabolites in weaned horses. Twenty weaned horses of the Unidad de Policía Montada Metropolitana del Ministerio de Seguridad Pública del Gobierno de la Ciudad de México, México, were randomly assigned to two treatment groups: control or an oral dose of the glycogenic additive (10 g/d). The additive was based on propylene glycol and Na/Ca propionate and was supplied for 30 days. Data were tested for normality and initial weight was used as a covariate for analyzing the average daily gain (ADG). The ADG was negatively affected (P < 0.01) by the glycogenic compound (0.468 vs. 0.517 kg), while there were no significant differences (P > 0.10) in blood glucose, globulins, total glucose, triglycerides, cholesterol, creatinine or urea in horses from either treatment group. It was concluded that the glucogenic additive, based on propylene glycol and Na/Ca propionate, negatively affected the performance of the horses. Therefore, administration of the additive is not recommended in weaned horses. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective. To determine the ultrasonographic morphometric parameters of the palmar metacarpal tendons and ligaments of clinically healthy Colombian creole horses. Materials and methods. Thirty clinically healthy Colombian creole horses of 6.4 ± 2.5 years were evaluated in different areas of the department of Córdoba (Colombia). The variables cross-sectional area (cm2), medial lateral width (ALM) (cm) and dorsal palmar thickness (EDP) (cm) in the structures of the metacarpal region in the two anterior members were measured by means of ultrasound. Results. Ultrasonography revealed that the transverse area of the suspensory ligament was the structure with the largest area in the proximal regions (1A, 1B and 2A), for both the left and right limbs. On the other hand, there was no significant difference (P> 0.05) between left and right limb for measurements of structures in any area, and there was no significant difference between age groups and body mass index (BMI) of horses. Conclusions. Reference values for tendons and ligaments in the palmar metacarpal region were obtained in equines providing a reference guide when metacarpal pathological conditions in equines are suspected. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Center for Interdisciplinary Training in Equine Therapy (CFIE) of the Federal Rural University of Rio de Janeiro (UFRRJ) is formed by a multidisciplinary team that develops since 2014 teaching, research and extension activities in the sphere of hippotherapy. The team consists of veterinarians, animal husbandry assistant, psychologists, physical educators and architects. This opportunity for professional insertion of the veterinarian is still not widespread and disseminated, especially among students and professionals in the area. The present study aims to evaluate the knowledge and perception of vet students from UFRRJ on hippotherapy. For that, a questionnaire was applied to 252 vet students with questions that assessed their personal profile and knowledge about hippotherapy. It was verified that vet students from UFRRJ are majority women and have already received information on hippotherapy. In its view the main purpose of this activity is therapeutic and most believe to be indicated to autistics, people with disabilities and with Down syndrome. Most of the interviewees recognize that the use of hippotherapy brings benefits to the practitioners, knows that the CFIE exists in the UFRRJ and sees this practice as a professional opportunity. However, they don't known as well about the performance of the veterinarian in the multidisciplinary team and his importance in maintenance of the horses' sanity. It is concluded that the vet students from UFRRJ have some knowledge about hippotherapy, but the purpose and applicability of this activity is still shallow among the students. The activities of the CFIE are known in the university community and the vet students see the hippotherapy as professional opportunity, without, however, actually knowing the competences developed by the veterinarian in the context of the activity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: equine Herpesvirus type 1 (EHV-1)‚ belongs to the Hespesviridae family of the Varicellovirus genus‚ is the causal agent of Equine Rhinopneumonitis or Equine Viral Abortion and one of the most important pathogens in equids‚ highly contagious‚ inducing respiratory‚ reproductive‚ and neurological diseases. Objective: The aim of this study was determining EHV-1 prevalence in equines from Ibagué-Tolima using molecular techniques‚ as well as to establish the risk factors associated with its presence. Methods: blood‚ serum‚ and semen samples (108‚ 87 and 31 respectively) were collected from 109 clinically healthy equines from different zones of Ibagué. Genomic DNA was purified via the phenol-chloroform-isoamyl alcohol method and verified for quality using spectrophotometry and ACTB gene amplification by endpoint PCR. For EHV-1 detection‚ hemi-nested PCR was carried out using specific primers for the amplification of the glycoprotein H (gH) gene. Moreover‚ risk factors were assessed based on an epidemiological survey which included information on sex‚ age‚ number of live and stillborn foals‚ abortions‚ natural mating‚ and artificial insemination. Results: overall prevalence for the 226 samples was 48.63 % (110/226)‚ for whole blood samples was 29.07 % (31/108)‚ for serum 32.18 % (28/87) and for semen 9.68 % (3/31). The positive detection rate of EHV-1 DNA in horses was not significantly influenced by sex (mare‚ OR = 0.66‚ p = 0.41; stallion‚ OR = 1.51‚ p = 0.41)‚ age (young‚ OR = 1.36‚ p = 0.41; adult‚ OR = 0.98‚ p = 1; old‚ OR = 0.76‚ p = 0.74)‚ number of foaling (OR = 0.39‚ p = 0.35)‚ abortions in mares (OR = 0.25‚ p = 0.20)‚ or natural mating (OR = 1.71‚ p = 0.56) and artificial insemination methods in stallions (NM‚ OR = 3.88‚ p = 0.1; SC‚ OR = 0.53‚ p = 0.54). Conclusion: the present study established a significant prevalence of EHV-1 among horses from Ibagué-Tolima. Moreover‚ it was demonstrated that the infectious agent can be found in blood‚ serum‚ and semen. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Antecedentes: las úlceras gástricas son lesiones de naturaleza multifactorial que afectan a todos los équidos (caballos‚ burros y mulares)‚ con prevalencias reportadas hasta del 100 % en animales adultos y del 50 % en potros. Si bien los estudios de úlceras gástricas son abundantes en los équidos jóvenes‚ adultos y geriátricos‚ no se reporta información en fetos y neonatos menores de 48 horas. Objetivo: describir y clasificar las úlceras en mucosa escamosa y glandular de estómagos de fetos de équidos‚ obtenidos de una planta de beneficio. Métodos: un total de 25 estómagos de fetos (11 caballos‚ 13 burros y 1 mular)‚ ambos sexos (12 hembras y 13 machos)‚ fueron recolectados inmediatamente después del sacrificio de hembras con gestaciones en su último tercio (> 7‚5 meses). Los estómagos fueron sometidos a cortes longitudinales a través de la curvatura mayor entre el cardias y el antro pilórico para la exposición y evaluación de ambas mucosas gástricas. Las lesiones fueron clasificadas con la adaptación de escalas propuestas para équidos adultos‚ ante la ausencia de parámetros para fetos. Resultados: se observaron úlceras en el 91 % (10/11) de los fetos de caballos‚ en el 92 % (12/13) de los fetos de burros y en el mular‚ siendo la mucosa glandular la más afectada (88%)‚ principalmente a nivel del fundus. En general‚ 23 de los fetos evaluados‚ fueron clasificados con úlceras ≥ 2 grados. En cuatro (4) de los fetos evaluados (2 caballos y 2 burros) se observaron úlceras en ambas mucosas gástricas. Conclusiones: el presente estudio evidenció la ocurrencia de lesiones gástricas en fetos en periodo perinatal‚ una vez que solo existen reportes en neonatos a partir de 48 horas de vida‚ por tanto‚ en conocimiento de los autores‚ este es el primer reporte de lesiones en mucosa glandular y escamosa de fetos de caballos‚ burros y mulares en el mundo. Por los hallazgos anteriores‚ se requiere de estudios para dilucidar la fisiopatología e identificar factores de predisposición a estas lesiones en vida gestacional de estos ejemplares. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The study analyzes the prevalence of gastrointestinal nematodes in farm horses in rural communities in some provinces of Panama. Fecal samples from horses were collected between January and November 2021 to assess the prevalence of these parasites. The results suggest that 90% of rural farm horses in Panama are affected by gastrointestinal nematode infections, with Trichostrongylus spp and Strongylus spp being the most common. It is concluded that it is necessary to implement control strategies to reduce infestation and improve the health and well-being of horses. [Extracted from the article]

The article presents a study on the validation of field tests for the evaluation of blood glucose in horses. The objective of the study was to compare glucose measurements made with a veterinary glucometer and a human glucometer, using a reference chemical analyzer. Blood glucose was measured in 16 horses in training, with three measurements taken per animal before, after, and two hours after exercise. The results showed that both the veterinary glucometer and the human glucometer showed comparable results to the reference method. It is concluded that reliable glucose measurements can be made in the field with the Glucoquick equipment. [Extracted from the article]

The article presents the welfare project for working horses in Chirripó National Park in Costa Rica. The project, initiated in 2017 by the Costa Rica Equine Welfare Association (CREW) in collaboration with the National Animal Health Service (SENASA) and the Chirripó Community Rural Consortium (CRC), aims to improve the quality of life for working horses through strategic partnerships. Welfare inspections and evaluations were carried out, owners and operators were trained, and sanitary orders were issued to ensure compliance with established regulations. The results showed an improvement in body condition and a decrease in the number of injuries per animal and their causes. [Extracted from the article]

The article titled "Characterization of the role of the horse and its welfare in the rural community in Panama" presents a study conducted by the Foundation for Training and Assistance to Horses in Panama (FUCAEP) in 2019. The objective of the study was to analyze the role of the horse and its welfare in the rural community of Panama. Surveys were conducted with 500 rural families, as well as observations, report collection, and interviews with owners and authorized personnel. The results showed that horses play a vital role in transportation and work in rural communities in Panama. It is concluded that it is important to improve the welfare of these animals through health programs, proper nutrition, and strengthening knowledge about the costs of horse care. [Extracted from the article]

Objective/Context: This article analyzes the environmental dimension of the debate that prompted the replacing of the tramway system from animal-drawn trams for electrical ones in Santiago de Chile towards the end of the nineteenth century. The objective is to delve into the correlation between the use of energy resources and urban progress through the study of the modernization of the collective locomotive system in Chile's capital. Methodology: Based on data from newspapers, technical, business and municipal documents, it is argued that the negative consequences of horse use for inhabitants' transportation in the city had an impact on the technological and cultural legitimacy on the exploitation of hydric resources for energy production. Originality: In a context prone to the removal of animals from the urban setting and its subsequent substitution for new means of transport, Santiago was the site of the coalescing of transnational investors in the tecno-electric industry, the circulation of medical and sanitary discourses and the spreading of a bourgeois urban imaginary. Thus, electricity would replace animal-driven means in the tramway system, which led to the re-signifying of nature's contribution to urbanization and the industrialization of the country. Conclusions: The water ways in central Chile became the much-needed new source for locomotive energy that would change the traditional image of Santiago. This process led to its transformation into a modern and international metropolis. Even though the urban elite did favor the use of electricity for the public transport system, other actors, in contrast, voiced their dissent against the alleged contribution, and expressed fears and distrust with respect to the benefits that such technology would bring forth to the population, especially to the poorer inhabitants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

SUMMARY: Introduction: Equine piroplasmosis is a notifiable disease. It is caused by two different parasites, Theilera equi and Babesia caballi, each of which displays different clinical and immunological features. Their natural vectors are ticks of different species. Objectives: To analyze the seroprevalence of equine piroplasmosis over time, differentiating the two etiological agents. Material and methods: Serum samples from mares from the Equine Breeding Center of Mazcuerras (Cantabria) obtained in 2010, 2014 and 2018. Serum antibody analysis was performed with the enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Results: The study shows that 84.37% of the animals analyzed are seropositive to one or both etiological agents of equine piroplasmosis. In addition, a significant increase in seropositivity was observed between 2010 and 2014, from a 65.51% seroprevalence in 2010 to 95.56% in 2014 and 89.48% in 2018. The seroprevalence for T. equi has progressively increased during the studied period. B. caballi only increased from 2010 to 2014, as a slight decrease was observed in 2018. Conclusion: T. equi is increasing its presence in northern latitudes of Spain. This is reflected in the progressive seropositivity increase observed over the years in the Equine Breeding Center of Mazcuerras in Cantabria. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) is an autologous blood-derived product with several therapeutic applications. Platelet growth factors have been shown to stimulate healing and reduce pain. Its use in the equine industry, particularly for orthopedic problems such as osteoarthritis or tendonitis has been increasing. However, PRP lacks reproducibility and, sometimes, quality since not only individual (breed, age, gender) and environmental (time of the day, hydration status) factors, but also laboratory methods can affect its final quality. Aims: we aimed to develop and normalize a protocol for PRP preparation, which will be repeatable for equine use, through a sterile disposable kit with a standard centrifuge, which minimizes laboratory variants. Methods and results: The final protocol resulting in a PRP with very high platelet concentration (6.4 ± 1.3 fold increase) and low white blood cell counts (3.7 ± 1.8 x106/mL) was stablished. The usual fold increase reported is 2 to 3. The final PRP had concentrations of platelet-derived growth factor with an average of 37ng/ml. Conclusion: The protocol is highly repeatable and simple to perform and the kit is suitable to use under field conditions because it does not permit contact between the sample and ambient air along the process. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Police working horses live in close contact with their handlers and the general population during recreational and patrol activities, an aspect that may favor the transmission of leptospirosis between horses and occupationally personnel. Objective: To characterize the epidemiology of leptospirosis by serology, uroculture and PCR in working horses and population with occupational risk of six Colombian police units. Material and methods: A total of 153 castrated male horses and 123 people from six police units of Manizales, Pereira, Armenia, Ibagué, Tuluá and Cali municipalities were evaluated. Three structured instruments were applied and blood samples from people and horses were obtained, which were processed by MAT with 24 serogroups. A clinical examen of horses was done and urine samples were obtained for urine culture and a conventional PCR. Results: The seroprevalence of human leptospira spp. was 3.25 % (n=4) and 85 % (n=130) in horses. The serogroups L. Djasiman y L. Shermani were the most prevalent in horses. The urine culture was positive in 64.7 % (99/153) of the samples, whereas the PCR analyzes were negative. A statistically significant association was found in the frequency of departure from the facilities (P=0.009) and the presence of wildlife (P=0.051), with infection by L. Shermani serogroup. Conclusion: The epidemiological characteristics of horse leptospirosis suggest an endemic presentation of the infection, and the role of horses as reservoirs of the bacteria, but it is necessary to elucidate the pathogenesis of the disease with complementary studies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present study was carried out in the littoral region of Ecuador, analyzing the hemograms of 100 horses clinically healthy, over two years of age and reared between 0 and 500 masl, in order to determinate hematological reference values and compare the results obtained with the reference values of a previous study performed to more than 3000 masl, in the Ecuadorian north central sierra. Therefore, blood samples were taken from animals at rest and were submitted to laboratory analysis with the Mindray R auto-hematology equipment BC2800Vet, and with this information the statistical study was made using Microsoft Excel R "Reference Value Advisor" to identify possible references values and to eliminate outlier data. These blood samples were taken from Ecuadorian creole horses in order to maintain a statistical sample with homogeneous blood parameters and a reference of this variety, which has only been studied before over 3000 masl. The following values were identified: erythrocytes: 4.90-9.38x106/µL, hematocrit: 24.83-45.10%, hemoglobin: 8.59-14,87g/dL, mean corpuscular volume: 42,35-55,19fL, mean corpuscular hemoglobin: 14,25-18.20pg, concentration of mean corpuscular hemoglobin: 32.10-36.70g/dL, white blood cells: 5.64-12.81x103/µL, lymphocytes: 1.04-5.85x103/µL, monocytes: 0.20-0.90x103/µL, granulocytes: 2.90-8.26x103/µL, and blood platelets between: 78.10-314.90x103/µL. In the comparison with the obtained results, significant differences were found (P<0.05) in the erythrocytes, hemoglobin, hematocrit and platelets reference values due to the height influence; while significant differences (P<0.05) were also found in the white series (leukocytes, lymphocytes, monocytes and granulocytes) but this due to physiological or pathological influence and not thanks to the altitudinal effect. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The vertebral venous plexus is a vascular network that runs from the cervical to sacral vertebral canal in the spine of mammals. The objective of this study was to perform an anatomical study of the internal vertebral venous plexus (IVVP) in horses. The spine of five horse specimens (four adults and one foal) was dissected for morphological analysis of the IVVP. The IVVP was observed in the ventral epidural space of the vertebral canal and was composed by two symmetrical longitudinal veins. There was a difference in the IVVP diameter and morphology between foal and adult horses. In all the specimens, the IVVP was more developed at cervical segments, while a decrease in the IVVP diameter was seen in sacral and caudal segments. The cervical IVVP communicated cranially with the basilar, interbasilar and sigmoid sinuses. Transverse communicating branches between left and right IVVP were occasionally observed at the cervical, sacral and caudal vertebral segments. In conclusion, the IVVP in horses is similar to other domestic animals, has transverse connections and is more developed at cervical segment. The diameter of the longitudinal veins decreased and at the caudal segment reaches its thinnest development. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The intraerythrocytic parasites Babesia caballi and Theileria equi are the etiological agents of equine piroplasmosis. This disease affects different horse breeds and it has a significant economic impact on the horse industry. The objective of the present study was to determine the presence of B. caballi and T. equi by blood smear and their association with the hematological parameters. Fifty-eight blood samples were taken from clinically healthy horses, which were diagnosed with B. caballi and T. equi infections by blood smear; in addition, the hematological examination of the red and white series was carried out. The mean value of all the hematological parameters evaluated was among the physiological values described for the horse species. From the total samples analyzed, intraerythrocytic formations compatible with B. caballi and T. equi were observed in 3/58 (5.2 %) and 8/58 (13.8 %) animals, respectively. Of these animals, 6/11 (10.3 %) had hematocrit values lower than those physiological. The association between positive animals and possible risk factors (age, sex, presence of ticks and contact with bovines) was evaluated. The statistical analysis showed significant differences when evaluating the relationship between hematocrit values and positive samples to T. equi. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The early presence of horses in the wild in the current territory of the Oriental Republic of Uruguay, opens the possibility that the process by which indigenous societies became equestrian occurred with little involvement of colonial society. In this article we discuss a finding from the arroyo del Vizcaíno site and reflect on its implications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Whereas several theatrical works show Sam Shepard's longstanding fascination with horses, none of them until the premiere at the Abbey Theatre in 2007 of Kicking a Dead Horse had brought a dead equine to the stage. The striking stage image of the cadaver of a horse dominating the stark setting and the figure of the horsekicker is critically assessed in this article, establishing a comparison with its kindred predecessor, the dreamer of horses in Geography of a Horse Dreamer (1974). Beyond the most obvious connection between these plays, the fact that actor Stephen Rea played the main role in them both, their evolving representation of the animal and the characters' engagement with it all deserve critical attention as they become a metaphor which reveals the transformations in Shepard's latest style of theatre. The trope of the horse dreamer is associated with creative freedom. The dramatization of the loss of American dreams in both plays reveals their divergent stance on human imaginative potential and also on the creative process, as the "style of dreaming" is closely related to the style of writing. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective. It was determined the presence of antibodies against Rickettsia sp. of the spotted fever group, in horses of 8 municipalities of the Colombian Orinoquia. Matherials and methods. A cross-sectional study was conducted on 246 sera from apparently healthy horses and processed by the indirect immunofluorescence test (IFI). Results. General seropositivity was (2.85%; 7/246), while by municipalities the results were, Arauca (9.1%; 2/22), Saravena (5.6%; 1/18), San José del Guaviare (4.9%; 2/41), San Martín (3.8%; 1/26), Yopal (1.9%; 1/52). It was not identified the presence of antibodies in Puerto López (0/52), Puerto Gaitán (0/15) and Villavicencio (0/20). Four of the positive samples presented titles of 1:64, while the remaining 3 1:128. Conclusions. It shows the circulation of Rickettsia sp. of the Spotted Fever Group in horses in the region of the Colombian Orinoquia, suggesting the need for further studies to understand the ecoepidemiology of municipalities with presence of seropositive. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This research aimed to test the effectiveness of doramectin by intramuscular administration against nematodes of horses, as it is evacuated, observed in the reduction in egg counts per gram of feces (epg). To this end, six donkeys and ten mestizo horses of different sexes and ages were used, all naturally infected with gastrointestinal nematodes. Animals were randomly divided into two groups: 1 (control), three donkeys and four horses that didn't receive anthelmintic treatment; and 2 (treated), three donkeys and six horses treated with doramectin at a dose of 0.2 mg/kg by intramuscular administration, single dose, applied on the neck. At days 5, 12, 16, 24, 34, 41, 47, 56, 60 and 140 post-treatment all animals were subjected to stool tests, allowing to define epg values by McMaster technique. The results determined that doramectin by intramuscular administration was highly effective in controlling nematodes in field conditions and in animals subjected to continual reinfestation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this work was to evaluate the prevalence of horse intestinal nematodes and to evaluate the Ivermectine (Labiomec®) efficacy over nematode in horses in the province of Camagüey, Cuba. Two hundred and five horses of individual owners were including in the test. The diagnosis and classification of the nematodes were carried out taking into account the morphology of eggs and collected third stage larvae. Three groups of horses with 10 animals each were included in the egg count reduction test. The prevalences detected were: S. vulgaris 27.3%, S. edentatus 12.2%, Triodontophorus 23.9%, Poteriostomun 44.4%, Ciatostomas 98.0%, P. equorum 13.7%, O. robustus 19.0%, G. capitatus 28.8%, T. axei 19.0% and S. westeri 10.2%, presenting significant differences regarding the origin of the sample for the nematodes S. vulgaris, Triodontophorus, P. equorum, G. capitatus and S. westeri and taking in to consideration groups etarios there was a significant difference for P. equorum and S. westeri. It was determined that Labiomec® was 100% effective in the control of intestinal nematodes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Polydactyly is a congenital anomaly of very low incidence in horses. A 6-week-old filly with polydactyly in all four limbs was admitted for a clinical and radiological examination. This examination showed the presence of a supernumerary digit for the digit II with respect to the metacarpal bone and the first and second phalanges in both forelimbs. In both hindlimbs a supernumerary digit was observed to originate at the level of the phalangic metatarsal joint. Both digits were the same size, and formed by three phalanges and were articulated with the metatarsi bone III. First phalanges of both digits were partially fused proximally. In the left hindlimb had osteomelitis, and a fracture in the lateral digit. Due to bone compromise and pain, euthanasia was performed. Cytogenic analysis was not performed. According to the used classification polydactyly described in the forelimbs corresponds to atavistic, and described in the hindlimbs to teratogenic form. As far as we know, this is the first case of polydactyly in all four limbs described in South America and the first in the world in the last 55 years. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective. To determine the presence of bacteria type Helicobacter spp., from gastric ulcers in horses. Materials and methods. Forty horses, 28 males and 12 females (4-17, years) were included. The frequency of presentation of bacteria like Helicobacter spp, was analyzed in descriptive form by means of the urease test UT), Gram (GS) stain and whartin-starry stain. Variables considered were the total of animals, anatomical (gastric segment of the mucous one) area, sex and age. Results. It was found the presence of bacteria like Helicobacter spp., the 65.0% of the horses were positive to urease test, 75.0% of the horses were positive to the whartin-starry and 50% to Gram stain. Only 62.5% of the animals were positive in both tests (urease test and whartin starry); meanwhile, 50.0% were positive in three tests (urease test, whartin starry and gram stain). 22.5% of the animals were negative in all tests. All of the positive samples were taken in the glandular mucous, mainly at the level of the fundus and hole gastric. Bacteria were found in all studied groups and both sex, major positivity was observed in males to two tests or more. From microscopic point of view it was observed shape curve spiral bacteria compatible to Helicobacter spp. Ureasa test was moderate, un few positive specimens showed high number of bacteria by using Whartin Starry stain. Conclusions. The bacteria Helicobacter spp., were present in the gastric ulcers of horses. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The purpose of this study was to examine parade horses' auditory discrimination among four types of equine gaits: paso-fino ("fine step"), trote-reunido ("two-beat trot"), trocha ("trot"), and galope-reunido ("gallop"). Two experimentally naïve horses were trained to discriminate the sound of their own gait (paso-fino or fine step), through an experimental module that dispensed food if the subject pressed a lever after hearing a sound reproduction of a particular gait. Three experimental phases were developed, defined by the period of exposure to the sounds (20, 10, and 5 seconds, respectively). The choice between pairs of sounds including the horse's own gait (fine step and two-beat trot; fine step and gallop; and fine step and trot) was reinforced differentially. The results indicate that the fine step horses are able to discriminate their own gait from others, and that receptivity to their own sounds could be included in their training regime. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective. To Characterize the type of histopatological lesion associated to Helicobacter spp presence in gastric ulcers of horses. Materials and methods. It was inclueded 25 horses of stomaches with sings of positive ulcers in 2 or more diagnostic test to curved-spiral bacteria Helicobacter spp. A Description of histopathological type of lesion, degree of gastric ulcer was done by hematoxylin-eosin staining. In all samples of gastric ulcers, it determines the degree and type of gastritis associated, and classified into three categories by degree of severity of ulcers, established by the council's Syndrome, Gastric Ulcers in Equines (CEGUS) and the classification of the associated gastritis was performed according to modified Sydney classification, Houston 1995. Variables considered were the total of animals, anatomical area (gastric segment of the mucous one) and age. Results. 30% of the ulcers were grade 1 and 2, 15% of them presented as chronic gastritis, 12.5% chronic active gastritis and a 2.5% chronic eosinofílic gastritis. 57.5% of the signs showed ulcers grade 3 and 4, 25% of them presented as chronic active gastritis, 17.5% chronic eosinofílic gastritis and the 15% chronic gastritis. Only 12.5% of the ulcers were grade 5 and 6, of which 7.5% presented chronic active gastritis, chronic gastritis 2.5% and 2.5% remaining chronic eosinophilic gastritis. Conclusions. The gastric ulcers grade 3 and 4 were the ones belonging to bigger presentation; microscopically the chronic active gastritis and the chronic gastritis were the more observed in the positive signs to Helicobacter spp in two or more diagnostic tests. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

El carcinoma de células escamosas es el tumor ocular más común en caballos. Para demostrar que el láser de dióxido de carbono es un método útil para inducir exitosamente la ablación de carcinoma de células escamosas superficiales en la córnea y en la conjuntiva, bajo anestesia general se operaron dos caballos afectados con carcinoma superficial de células escamosas ocular mediante esta técnica, administrando pulsos continuos sobre el tejido afectado. Los tumores fueron removidos completamente provocando mínima o ninguna inflamación posquirúrgica o molestia en los caballos. La ablación con láser de dióxido de carbono representa una nueva alternativa quirúrgica prometedora en el tratamiento de carcinoma ocular de células escamosas en los caballos. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

El objetivo de este estudio fue evaluar la frecuencia de Trichinella spiralis en carne de caballo que se utiliza para consumo humano y para animales. Se muestrearon 150 caballos procedentes de dos mataderos particulares, uno semitecnificado industrial y otro rural, 70 pertenecieron al primero y 80 al segundo; después de sacrificar a los animales, de cada caballo se tomaron 10 g de tres músculos; glúteo, masetero, diafragma o lengua, así como 5 ml de sangre; en la carne se buscó presencia de larvas de T. spiralis mediante: a) triquinoscopía, b) digestión artificial y c) reacción de la cadena de la polimerasa, esta última también fue utilizada en la sangre. Los resultados mostraron que la triquinoscopía fue negativa en todos los músculos evaluados de los dos mataderos. Por digestión artificial, en un caballo del matadero semitecnificado industrial se encontraron larvas de T. spiralis en los tres músculos con 1.42% de infección y en el músculo (masetero) de un caballo del matadero rural, por lo que la positividad de este ultimo fue de 1.25%. La reacción en cadena de la polimerasa fue positiva en los tres músculos de los caballos del matadero industrial y en la sangre de dos animales que resultaron positivos, dando una frecuencia total de infección de 4.8%. En el matadero rural la reacción en cadena de la polimerasa fue positiva en músculos de tres caballos, mientras que los análisis de sangre fueron negativos en todos los caballos evaluados indicando una frecuencia total de la infección de 3.75%. Se concluye que la frecuencia de T. spiralis fue alta y semejante entre los dos mataderos pero hubo diferencias en relación a su carga parasitaria. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The objective of this study was the evaluation of the frequency of Trichinella spiralis in horse meat that is used for human and animal consumption. A total of 150 horses were sampled, from two private slaughterhouses, one industrial slaughterhouse with some level of technology and the other one rural with less technology. Seventy animals from the first one and 80 from the second one were sampled. After the horses were slaughtered 10 g were taken from three muscles of each horse: gluteus, masseter and diaphragm or tongue as well as 5 ml of blood. The muscle tissue was observed looking for Trichinella spiralis larvae by: a) trichinoscopy b) artificial digestion and c) polymerase chain reaction. This last technique was used also for the blood analysis. For both slaughterhouses, all muscles observed by trichinoscopy were negative. By artificial digestion analysis, T. spiralis larvae were found in the three muscles of only one horse of the 70 that came from the industrial slaughterhouse, which represents a 1.42% prevalence in this lot. Of the eighty horses of the rural slaughterhouse T. Spiralis was found in only the masseter of one horse and this represents 1.25% positiveness. With the polymerase chain reaction T. spiralis was identified in three muscles of one horse of the industrial slaughterhouse and in blood of another two horses which gives a total infection frequency of 4.28%. In the horses from the rural slaughterhouse, the polymerase chain reaction was positive in muscles of three horses; the total frequency of infection in this lot was 3.75%, taking into consideration that the results for blood with this technique came out negative. It is concluded that the frequency of T. spiralis was similar to what has been found in other reports, although there were differences between both slaughterhouses in relation to the parasitic burden of the animals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sixteen horses were sampled at a livestock center from Santa Clara, Cuba, to find out Gasterophilus spp. intensity and extension. Data were statistically processed through the Statgraphics plus 5.1 software. Out of the 16 horses examined, 12 were infested by this parasite in a 75 % extension range. Total intensity rate amounted 1 122 parasites, i.e., 93 parasites per animal. Thus, economic losses were remarkable due to the high levels of Gasterophilus spp. intensity and extension. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introducción: La domesticación ha provocado cambios en los hábitos alimenticios de los caballos. La reducción del comportamiento masticatorio en un animal hipsodonto como el caballo provoca un crecimiento excesivo de las puntas de esmalte dental y disminuye la producción de saliva de efecto tampón en el sistema digestivo, derivando en un desgaste dental anormal y en la aparición de úlceras gástricas. Objetivos: Este estudio pretende probar la influencia del tipo de concentrado suministrado, con diferente tamaño de gránulo y porcentaje de fibra, con el objeto de paliar estos problemas al aumentar la necesidad de procesamiento mecánico del alimento. Material y Método: Se sometieron los animales a la ingesta voluntaria de cuatro tipos de concentrados, se midió el número de masticaciones y la producción de saliva basal y postapandrial, así como el incremento provocado por el consumo del alimento. Resultados: Los resultados revelaron la influencia de estos dos parámetros de manera significativa, ya que los concentrados altos en fibra y mayor grosor de gránulo producían mayor número de masticaciones, mientras que el incremento en la producción de saliva sólo se vio afectado cuando se probaron grosores de gránulo inferiores. Conclusiones: La adecuación de la dieta puede mejorar el comportamiento masticatorio y las necesidades naturales de esta especie mediante el aporte de mayor fibra en alimentos concentrados y la selección de gránulos de mayor diámetro, favoreciendo la optimización y aprovechamiento del alimento. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]