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Rationale: Anabolic steroids, also known as anabolic–androgenic steroids (AAS), encompass steroidal androgens such as testosterone, as well as synthetic counterparts with similar structures and effects. The misuse of AAS has increased over the years, leading to ethical and welfare concerns in sports. The World Anti‐Doping Agency (WADA) and the International Federation for Equestrian Sports (FEI) have banned AAS in relevant sports. Methandienone is one of the most identified anabolic androgenic steroids in sports drug testing, Therefore, reliable detection methods are crucial for effective doping control and maintaining the integrity of the sports. Methods: This study explores the use of homogenized camel liver for detecting methandienone metabolites in camels. The biotransformation pathways of methandienone in homogenized camel liver tissues are analyzed using Liquid Chromatography‐High Resolution Mass Spectrometry (LC‐HRMS) to identify and characterize the phase I and phase II metabolites. Chromatographic separation was achieved using a Thermo‐Hypersil C18 column. Results: The study has identified 11 methandienone metabolites (M1–M11), this includes 10 phase I and one phase II metabolite. A glucuronic acid conjugate of methandienone was observed in this study, but no sulfonic acid conjugations were found. The metabolites and their possible chemical structures, along with their fragmentation patterns are confirmed using MSMS (MS2) experiments in data‐independent acquisition (DIA) mode. Conclusions: These findings serve as a vital tool for the rapid detection of methandienone, combating its illicit use in camel racing. Comprehensive screenings covering both the parent drug and its metabolites are recommended to improve detection accuracy and ensure regulatory compliance in sports doping. Future research should explore methandienone's metabolite profile in administered camel samples. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Many studies have investigated the benefits and drawbacks of social media, but the impact it has on amateur sports participants who use it as part of their practice has been largely overlooked. This study addresses this gap, investigating the impacts of social media on the mental health of women participating in amateur sport activities–specifically, equestrian events through a mixed methods survey of 221 female amateur equestrians in the UK. Themes included the pressure to present a "perfect" image to an external audience, the stress of comparison to others, and constant judgment around the performance of a participant. We also found issues of distorted reality and false representation. We conclude by highlighting a need for better assistance for athletes both while they are competing at events and at other times, particularly pre/postevent. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary Background Objectives Study design Methods Results Main limitations Conclusions Impinging dorsal spinous processes (IDSP) are a common cause of pain and loss of performance in sports horses, with a range of surgical and conservative treatments available.Identify relationships between treatment choice and the likelihood of returning to previous level of performance for horses diagnosed with IDSP.Cross‐sectional survey of owners with horses diagnosed with IDSP.A 14‐question online survey was circulated via social media. Data were collected for 260 horses and analysed for associations between treatment choice and return to pre‐diagnosis level of performance.Just under 50% of horses in the sample returned to their previous level of performance post‐treatment. Horses that were treated surgically had twice the odds of returning to their previous level than those that were not, and horses that underwent an exercise rehabilitation programme had 10 times the odds of returning to level.As this was an owner survey, self‐selection bias and recall bias could have influenced the findings.If the aim is for the horse to return to a competitive career post‐treatment, the most appropriate surgical intervention appears to be the best approach, and an exercise rehabilitation plan may have benefit. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary Background Objectives Study design Methods Results Main limitations Conclusions The presence of palmar osteochondral fragments of the distal phalanx is a newly recognised cause of foot lameness with only a few cases having been reported.To describe the low field magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) appearance of palmar articular fragmentation of the distal phalanx and concurrent abnormalities of the distal interphalangeal joint (DIPJ); to investigate the prevalence of these fragments in a population of sports and pleasure horses and their potential clinical significance.Retrospective descriptive case series.This is a retrospective descriptive case series in which all Sports and Pleasure horses undergoing standing low‐field MRI of the feet between 2015 and 2023 were reviewed. Appearance, location and number of palmar articular fragments were recorded. When a palmar fragment was present, abnormal findings of the DIPJ were graded.A total of 855 horses underwent MRI examination of one or both front feet. Palmar osteochondral fragmentation of the distal phalanx was identified in four horses (0.4% prevalence), three Lusitanos and one Warmblood. The age range was 4–17 years old. All fragments were located along the palmarolateral margin of the glenoid of the distal phalanx in front feet. Concurrent imaging abnormalities of the joint were present in all four horses.Lack of histopathology.The prevalence of palmar articular fragments of the distal phalanx was low in this population of horses. Palmar osteochondral fragmentation must be considered when evaluating lameness localised to the foot, since it was identified only in lame limbs and associated with other imaging abnormalities of the DIPJ. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Rationale: To uphold the integrity of horseracing and equestrian sports, it is critical for an equine doping control laboratory to develop a comprehensive screening method to cover a wide range of target substances at the required detection levels in equine urine. Methods: The procedure involved the enzymatic hydrolysis of 3 mL urine samples followed by solid‐phase extraction using HF Bond Elut C18 cartridge. The resulting extracts were then separated on a C18 reversed‐phase column and analyzed using liquid chromatography/high‐resolution mass spectrometry (LC/HRMS) in both electrospray ionization positive and negative modes in two separate injections. The analytical data were obtained in full scan and product ion scan (PIS) modes in an 11 min LC run. Results: The method can detect 1011 compounds (in both positive and negative ion modes). Over 95% of the target compounds have limits of detections (LODs) ≤10 ng/mL, and more than 50% of the LODs are ≤0.5 ng/mL. The lowest LOD can reach down to 0.01 ng/mL. The applicability of the method was demonstrated by the successful detection of prohibited substances in overseas and domestic equine urine samples. Conclusions: We have successfully developed a regular screening method for equine urine samples that can detect more than 1000 compounds at sub‐ppb levels in both positive and negative ion modes with full scan and PIS using LC/HRMS. Furthermore, this method can theoretically be expanded to accommodate an unlimited number of prohibited substances in full‐scan mode. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Osteochondrosis dissecans is a particularly common developmental orthopaedic disorder in equines. Among its causes, the hereditary component is no longer a matter of debate, and, for several decades, the various studbooks for sport horses have been selecting stallions in order to limit the prevalence of this condition in the population. However, to our knowledge, no study has evaluated changes in the prevalence of osteochondrosis dissecans over time through longitudinal monitoring of a population of sport horses. The study presented here is part of a large screening programme for developmental orthopaedic pathologies in Wallonia (Belgium) and assessed the presence of these lesions over a period of 19 years in the Walloon sport horse population according to constant and standardised sampling and diagnostic criteria. The effects of breeding conditions and infection in foals were also assessed by means of questionnaires. The results showed no significant change in the prevalence of osteochondrosis dissecans in a population of 1099 individuals born between 2004 and 2022. Furthermore, individuals who had suffered from sepsis during their growing period were very significantly predisposed (p < 0.001) to the development of osteochondrosis dissecans compared to a control group, with respectively 14/21 (67%) and 103/364 (28%) of individuals affected. This study suggests that the selection programmes applied to the population studied are not sufficiently strong or adapted to reduce the prevalence of osteochondrosis dissecans in the population over a period of 19 years. Moreover, this study confirms that foals with sepsis and concurrent osteochondrosis dissecans lesions should not necessarily be excluded from breeding programmes on this basis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Equestrian sports, also referred to as equestrianism, is practiced all over the world and a popular leisure activity in Sweden. Equestrianism is the country's second-largest youth sport, and previous studies indicate that accidents are common in equestrianism. However, few previous studies have examined acute equestrian injuries leading to permanent medical impairment (PMI). Methods: By using nationwide insurance data comprising all injured equestrians registered in the Swedish Equestrian Federation, the aim was to analyse characteristics of equestrian accidents and particularly injuries leading to PMI, both in general and by age, gender, incident type, injury type and injured body region. Injury incidence and injuries leading to PMI were examined. All equestrians injured during 2017–2021 were included (n = 6,876), however, only injuries occurring in 2017 and 2018 were used to analyse the risk and the injury distribution of injuries leading to PMI. Injury incidence was calculated separately for males and females, as well as for different age groups, by dividing the number of insurance claims by the number of members multiplied by 1,000. Risk Ratio (RR) was calculated between gender. Pearson's chi-squared test was used to analyse differences in distribution for categorical variables. Results: The majority of injuries affected females, correlating to approximately three times higher risk, compared to males. The age group 21–40 years were associated with the highest injury risk (14.26/1,000 registered riders). In total 12% of all injuries led to PMI. Injuries to the upper and lower extremities, along with fractures, had a higher risk of resulting in a PMI. The risk of injury leading to PMI was higher among riders over 20 years of age. Conclusions: The fact that females face nearly three times the injury risk of males, and riders aged 21–40 had the highest injury risk while younger riders (Luke KL, McAdie T, Smith BP, Warren-Smith AK. New insights into ridden horse behaviour, horse welfare and horse-related safety. Appl Anim Behav Sci. 2022;246:105539.); (Havlik HS. Equestrian sport-related injuries: a review of current literature. Curr Sports Med Rep. 2010;9(5):299–302.); (Samuels K, Bettis A, Davenport DL, Bernard AC. Occupational vs. non-occupational equestrians: Differences in demographics and injury patterns. Injury. 2022;53(1):171–5.); (Gharooni A-A, Anwar F, Ramdeep R, Mee H. Severe equestrian injuries: A seven-year review of admissions to a UK major trauma centre. Trauma. 2023;25(1):41–7.); (Hasler RM, Gyssler L, Benneker L, Martinolli L, Schotzau A, Zimmermann H, et al. Protective and risk factors in amateur equestrians and description of injury patterns: A retrospective data analysis and a case - control survey. J Trauma Manag Outcomes. 2011;5:4.); (Meredith L, Brolin K, Ekman R, Thomson R. Analyses of injuries to equestrians in a Swedish district over a 16-year period. Translational Sports Med. 2019;2:270–8.) had a lower risk, indicates that preventive efforts should target both older and female riders. Injuries predominantly resulting in PMI involve upper and lower extremities, however, to prevent the most serious injuries significantly affecting a rider's daily life, measures preventing head and spinal cord neck injuries, must be implemented. Head injures remain the most frequent, serious and most significant group of injuries to prevent and mitigate, within equestrian sports. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A 10‐year‐old Irish Sport Horse gelding developed complications from a general anesthesia resulting in sling support and recurrent urinary catheterization. The horse subsequently presented signs of dysuria and pollakiuria, was diagnosed with sabulous cystitis, and developed a urethral stricture from the repeated catheterizations, which was confirmed on urethroscopy. Clinical signs persisted despite conservative management with topical corticosteroids and urethral bougienage with balloon dilators. An image‐guided approach was used to treat the stricture with a custom‐made polydioxanone stent placed in the urethra after which the horse was able to void normally and fully empty his bladder. Repeat urethroscopy and ultrasonography 6 months after the procedure showed the stent to have completely reabsorbed with urethra remaining patent. Nineten months after the procedure, the owner reports the horse remaining at his intended level of athletic performance with no dysuria. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary A 20‐year‐old Irish Sport Horse gelding was presented to the Royal Veterinary College Equine Referral Hospital for investigation of left‐sided epistaxis, depression and gait abnormalities of approximately 1 month duration. Physical examination and cranial nerve evaluation were unremarkable. A small amount of haemorrhagic discharge was noted from the left nostril. Gait evaluation was suggestive of proprioceptive deficits. Computed tomography (CT) identified a mass lesion within the left conchofrontal and sphenopalatine sinuses extending through the cribriform plate into the calvarium. Histopathology of the mass revealed a neuroendocrine neoplasm, for which a diagnosis of esthesioneuroblastoma was favoured. This case highlights the usefulness of CT for the identification and extent of an intracranial mass and therefore its prognosis, however, histopathological examination was necessary to confirm the diagnosis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: Equestrian sports have evolved beyond traditional disciplines, embracing specialised events that showcase breed-specific abilities. The Criollo horse breed, a product of centuries of genetic refinement, stands out in South America and internationally, particularly in events like the Freio de Ouro. This competition highlights the breed's versatility and skills, emphasising manoeuvres like the esbarrada and volta sobre patas, which demonstrate agility, coordination, and balance. Despite the breed's success, there is a lack of quantitative kinematic studies on these manoeuvres and their relation to horse morphology. Our study aims to fill this gap by using kinematics to analyse the esbarrada and volta sobre patas, exploring any connections between static goniometry and manoeuvre dynamics. Understanding these movements not only enhances our appreciation of equine biomechanics but also informs breeding and training practices, ultimately benefiting both horses and riders in various equestrian disciplines. The esbarrada and volta sobre patas manoeuvres are critical in Criollo horse equestrian activities, yet their kinematics remain largely unexplored. This observational study aimed to kinematically describe the manoeuvres in Criollo breed horses and explore the relationship between static goniometry and dynamics. A 2D kinematic analysis was conducted on 31 Criollo horses performing the manoeuvres using high-speed cameras. Joint angles were measured using static goniometry and analysed in relation to dynamic performance. The esbarrada covered a distance of 4.28 ± 0.99 m in 1.15 ± 0.11 s at a velocity of 3.77 ± 0.55 m/s. Joint angles showed a mean fetlock extension of 75.4° ± 5.3° and hock flexion of 43.2° ± 4.1°. In the volta sobre patas, significant differences were found in turn duration (first: 0.96 ± 0.07 s, second: 1.12 ± 0.09 s, p = 0.03) and thoracic limb suspension (first: 0.23 ± 0.02 s, second: 0.28 ± 0.03 s, p = 0.02). Static goniometry indicated that limb conformation did not significantly correlate with protraction angles during the esbarrada (p = 0.27). The volta sobre patas demonstrated prolonged duration and increased thoracic limb suspension in the second turn. Also, the findings suggest that static conformation does not predict dynamic limb movement during the esbarrada. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: Water treadmill (WT) exercise is popular for cross-training of sport horses. The nature of the horse's adaptation to WT exercise could be influenced by the type of session used and how often it is conducted. The study's aim was to compare the gait characteristics of 48 sport horses during a standardised WT exercise test (WTSET) at the start, i.e., 'week 0', and after 20 and 40 weeks of WT exercise incorporated within their normal training programme. Horses were recruited from the existing client populations of two commercial water treadmill venues for the purpose of this longitudinal, observational study. Measurements of limb, back, poll, wither, and pelvic movement were taken during the WTSET at weeks 0, 20, and 40. Compared to week 0, the results showed changes in gait characteristics during the WTSET at weeks 20 and 40 that reflected adaptation to walking in water, including increased protraction and decreased retraction of the fore and hind limbs. Kinematic responses were primarily dependent upon water depth, but previous experience of the horses with WT exercise, the number of WT exercise sessions carried out per month, and the type of the WT exercise session used during training with respect to speed and depth used were also influential. The WT session design and frequency of use can influence the nature of the kinematic responses to water walking seen over time, suggesting that WT exercise sessions within a normal sport horse training programme could be designed in accordance with specific training goals. Repeated exposure to water treadmill (WT) exercise could elicit kinematic responses reflecting adaptation to WT exercise. The study's aim was to compare the responses of a group of sport horses to a standardised WT exercise test (WTSET) carried out at three time points, week 0 (n = 48), week 20 (n = 38), and week 40 (n = 29), throughout a normal training programme incorporating WT exercise. Horses were recruited from the existing client populations of two commercial water treadmill venues for the purpose of this longitudinal, observational study. Limb, back, poll, wither, and pelvic kinematics were measured during the WTSET using videography, optical motion capture, and inertial motion sensors. Forelimb and hindlimb protraction increased (p < 0.001 for both), and forelimb and hindlimb retraction decreased (p < 0.001 for both) at week 40 compared to week 0. Caudal thoracic flexion–extension and lateral bend ranges of movement were greater at week 40 compared to week 0 (p < 0.001 and p = 0.009, respectively). Increased training speed was associated with increased craniocaudal poll movement (p = 0.021), decreased forelimb protraction (p = 0.008), and increased forelimb retraction (p = 0.021). In addition to characteristic changes in kinematics due to increasing water depth, regular WT exercise resulted in kinematic adaptation to movement in water. Factors such as the frequency of WT sessions and the type of session used with respect to depth and speed were seen to influence the nature of the adaptation. The results suggest that WT exercise sessions could be designed in accordance with specific training goals when used within a normal sport horse training programme. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: Horse body conformation is an important aspect to evaluate in sport horse selection since the overall body shape determines the limits of the range of movement and function of the horse and, ultimately, its future performance. The genetic improvement of this breed is under the control of the National Association of Maremmano Breeders (ANAM), the first Italian association to use a continuous evaluation scale to evaluate the horses enrolled in the Studbook in the early 1990s. Morphological scoring is a common evaluation method for domestic animals. People employed in this type of role must be able to translate their judgements regarding certain features of the animal's body into numbers or letters, thus avoiding the need to measure the animal. Only a few aspects of the horse's body conformation are actually measured since this activity is difficult and expensive. This study proposes an easier approach to horse scoring in order to obtain genetic proof of morphological traits and, consequently, to support breeders in making targeted selection decisions. Three new factors were computed and summed through an unique New Estimated Breeding Value (NEBV1), with the purpose of supporting breeders in adopting an easier and more accurate selection approach. Morphological scoring is a common evaluation method for domestic animals. The National Association of Maremmano Breeders (ANAM) has provided a dataset containing the records of 600 horses, four metric measurements (cm) and 24 traits with a continuous evaluation scale, each one with 15 classes. Moreover, a body condition score (BCS) with five classes is included. In this study, factor analysis was conducted to create a small number of informative factors (3) obtained from these traits, and a new BLUP-AM-MT index was established. The New Estimated Breeding Value (NEBV1) of each horse was computed by adding the genetic indexes of the three factors, with each one multiplied using a coefficient indicated by ANAM. The practical feasibility of the NEBV1 was evaluated through Spearman correlations between the rankings of the NEBV1 and the rankings of the BLUP-AM-MT, estimated through the four biometric measures and the morphological score (MS) assigned to each horse by the ANAM judges. The factorial analysis was used to estimate three factors: the "Trunk Dimension", "Legs" and "Length". As the explained variance was only 32%, the model was rotated, and the heritability of the three factors were 0.51, 0.05 and 0.41, respectively. After rotation, the estimated correlations between the new NEBV1 and the biometric measures were improved. These results should encourage breeders to adopt a breeding value index that takes into consideration the factors derived from all the variables observed in the morphological evaluation of the Maremmano. In this way, breeders can use it to select the best animals for breeding. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: This study explored how dressage judges focus their attention on different parts of horse-rider performances during competitions. By using eye tracking technology, we analyzed where judges look and how long they focus on specific areas. We included twenty judges with varying levels of experience and recorded their eye movements as they assessed Grand Prix dressage tests on video. We found that all judges mostly looked at the front of the horse compared to the rider or other parts of the horse. However, advanced level judges paid more attention to the horse's feet, while judges engaged at the lower level of the sport looked more at the rider. These patterns suggest that judges concentrate on a few highly relevant areas, depending on the underlying criteria for evaluating performances. Understanding judges' visual patterns and how they interpret what they see can help improve judging, making it more accurate and transparent, ensuring more consistent evaluations in competition and improving equine welfare. This study investigated the visual search behavior of equestrian dressage judges at different expertise levels during the assessment of Grand Prix horse-rider combinations. Twenty judges (11 foundational level, 9 advanced level) participated in the study, with their eye movements recorded using Tobii Fusion Eyetracker as they evaluated video recordings of dressage tests. Fixation metrics, namely Total Duration of Fixation (TDF), Average Duration of Fixation (ADF), and Total Number of Fixations (TNF), were analyzed across four Areas of Interest (AOIs): front, back, rider, and horse's feet. Statistical analysis utilized linear mixed-effects models. Results demonstrated that judges consistently focused more on the front of the horse, with additional differences in fixation duration and frequency based on judge experience and specific movements. Advanced judges focused more on the horses' feet, suggesting they draw meaning from specific areas indicative of performance quality. Conversely, foundational level judges focused more on the rider, reflecting different evaluative priorities at lower levels of the sport. These findings suggest that judges focus on a limited number of highly relevant areas, differing across movements and expertise levels. The study underscores the necessity of understanding both gaze behavior and subsequent interpretations of visual information to increase judging transparency, fairness, and equine welfare. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this study was to investigate the biochemical indices in the saliva of leisure and sport horses undergoing different levels of workload. The experiment was conducted on 40 horses (4--28 years): sport horses (n = 20), and leisure horses (n = 20). The saliva samples were collected non-invasively 15 min before riding (A), 1 min before riding (B), 1 min after riding (C) and 15 min after riding (D). Albumin (Alb), alkaline phosphatase (ALP), α-amylase (AMY), creatine kinase (CK), creatinine (Crea), glucose (Glc), lactate (Lac), triacylglycerols (TG), total protein (TP), urea and lipid peroxidation (TBARS) were measured in saliva. Riding caused a significant change in many biochemical indices (Alb, CK, Glc, Lac, TBARS and urea) compared to baseline values in leisure horses (P < 0.05) but only in a few indices (Glc, Crea and TBARS) in sport horses. On the other hand, when comparing groups of leisure and sport horses, higher concentrations of Alb, Glc, TG and urea were found in sport horses whereas raised concentrations of CK and Crea were found in leisure horses. The obtained results indicate the adaptation of trained horses to physical effort. Moreover, this study confirms other possibilities of using salivary biochemical properties for physical stress assessment. Other more detailed comparative studies of load response in horses may provide useful information to quantify the reference range of individual stress indices. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Horses that sweat during exercise lose considerable amounts of water and electrolytes, such as sodium (Na), potassium (K) and chloride (Cl). Significant sweat losses between 7–10L can occur even during moderate exercise in leisure horses (500–600kg body mass); significantly higher sweat losses can be observed in endurance riding or in Three-day eventing competitions. Numerous studies have shown that most leisure and sport horses cannot compensate their increased Na and Cl requirements via a salt lick, whereas the K supply can be covered by an adequate roughage intake, even under situations with a high K requirement. The oral supplementation of electrolytes, especially Na and Cl, is a useful strategy in order to replace electrolytes that are lost by sweating in leisure and in sport horses. Although there are numerous electrolyte supplements on the market, commercial products are usually not well formulated, so that salt supplementation (e.g., table salt without fluorine and iodine) is recommended in the nutritional management of hoses. Adding electrolytes into the diet, sufficient water must be always freely available in order (i) to compensate water losses through sweating; (ii) promoting electrolyte absorption in the gastrointestinal tract; and (iii) counteracting the risks of salt overdosing, as renal elimination is dependent on water supply. Horses should be adapted to the oral supplementation of electrolytes/salt e.g., in combination with palatable feed. The application of electrolytes via the drinking water is often not recommended, as the palatability of saline solutions in horses is low and can individually vary from horse to horse. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: Every year, many horses are transported by air. Alongside sport horses traveling to tournaments worldwide, mainly breeding horses, such as shuttle stallions and broodmares, thoroughbreds traded at auctions, and leisure horses are transported by air. Although the transportation of horses by air is a well-established business with decades of experience, research has highlighted welfare concerns for horses and calls for the reform of international transportation standards. This study offers an overview of the existing equine welfare discourses and transportation practices within the business. Furthermore, we reveal how these well-established discourses and practices shape the behavior and identity of agency workers, aviation staff, and horses. The study's conclusion can help improve the international agreements that set welfare standards for the transport of horses by air. Every year, many horses are transported by air. Alongside sport horses traveling to tournaments worldwide, mainly breeding horses, such as shuttle stallions and broodmares, thoroughbreds traded at auctions, and leisure horses are transported by air. Research in veterinary science has highlighted welfare concerns during air transportation. Equine welfare is constituted in the language and discourse evolving from social, political, and ethical views about the treatment of horses. Consequently, this study targets power in creating equine welfare by analyzing the welfare discourses, transportation practices that generate welfare, and their impact on horses and humans in the transportation of horses by air. In detail, this research uses a Foucauldian discourse analysis to examine how welfare discourses and linked transportation practices constitute horses and humans using disciplinary power. The empirical material consists of 81 newspaper articles about horse transportation by air, five video clips, and four interviews with representatives of horse transport agencies that have set standards for the transportation of horses by air. The analysis discovers four different welfare discourses and various practices that guide the carrying of horses by air. The discourses have created inactive horses and human professionals in the business of horse transportation by air. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background/Objectives: The public perception relating to the welfare of horses involved with equestrian sports is associated with training methods used and the presentation of horses at events. In this context, very tight nosebands, which are intended to prevent the horse from opening its mouth, also attract a lot of attention. Various studies have evaluated the impact of tight nosebands on stress parameters, whereas the effect of tight nosebands on upper airway function is unknown. Therefore, the aim of the study was to use overground endoscopy to evaluate changes in pharyngeal and laryngeal function when a tight noseband is fitted. Moreover, the ridden horse pain ethogram (RHpE) was applied to investigate signs of discomfort (Dyson et al., 2018). Study design: A randomized, blinded, and prospective study was performed. Methods: Sixteen warmblood horses consisting of twelve mares and four geldings with a mean age of 11.63 ± 3.53 years were ridden on 2 consecutive days with either loose or tight nosebands (two fingers or no space between bridge of the nose and noseband, respectively) and inserted endoscope in a random order. Videos were taken in a riding arena during a standardized exercise protocol involving beginner level tasks for 30 min in all gaits. For video analysis, freeze frames were prepared and analyzed at the beginning of the expiration phase. Pharyngeal diameter was measured using the pharynx‐epiglottis ratio. Other findings (swallowing, pharyngeal collapse, soft palate movements, and secretion) were also evaluated. Moreover, the RHpE was applied. Descriptive statistics and generalized linear mixed effects models were used. Results with a p‐value < 0.05 were considered statistically significant. Results: While the pharynx‐epiglottis ratio did not change significantly in horses ridden with loose versus tight nosebands, there was an increase in mean grade and total counts of parameters assessed in the pharyngeal region, for example, grade of secretion (1.5 [±SD 0.89] vs. 3.13 [±SD 0.96]; p = 0.0001), axial deviation of the aryepiglottic folds (0.29 [±SD 0.73] vs. 1.33 [±SD 1.44]; p = 0.01), and pharyngeal collapse (0.69 [±SD 0.87] vs. 1.88 [±SD 1.54]; p = 0.005) in horses ridden with tight nosebands. There was no RHpE score above 8 indicating musculoskeletal pain, but the RHpE scores were significantly higher in horses ridden with tight nosebands (p < 0.001). Main limitations: Video quality was limited when horses showed large amounts of secretion. Another limitation was the small number of horses. Conclusions: Results add to the evidence obtained in other studies that tight nosebands do not only cause adverse reactions based on the RHpE score such as head behind the vertical or intense staring but also contribute to changes in the pharyngeal region, such as increased secretion and collapse of pharyngeal structures. This may provide further support for future decisions regarding regulations on nosebands. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

With the increasing awareness of the "united airway disease" theory, more horses, not only sport horses but also pleasure horses, undergo detailed examinations of the respiratory tract. Using endoscopy, equine asthma (EA) is most commonly diagnosed in the lower airway, while pharyngeal lymphoid hyperplasia (PLH) is common in the upper airway. Grading EA as mild–moderate (MEA) and severe (SEA), this study aims to compare the co-occurrence and investigate the possible relationship between the clinical symptoms and endoscopic signs of MEA/SEA and PLH in pleasure horses. In this retrospective study, 80 out of 93 pleasure horses suspected of EA were enrolled and underwent a standardized protocol for a complete airway examination, including resting endoscopy with mucus accumulation assessment and cytology. The obtained results were scored and analyzed. In the studied pleasure horses, PLH co-occurred more frequently in horses with EA than without (p < 0.0001) and more in horses with SEA than with MEA (p = 0.025). However, when EA and PLH co-occurred, the severity of the clinical symptoms of EA did not increase (p > 0.05). In both EA and PLH, the amount of tracheal and nasopharyngeal mucus increased with the severity of the disease; however, it was positively correlated (ρ = 0.33; p = 0.02) only in SEA horses. In conclusion, it is likely that EA is often accompanied by PLH; however, PLH did not play a role in increasing the severity of EA's clinical symptoms. The role of the severity of accumulated mucus in the lower and upper airways when EA/PLH co-occur requires further research to confirm the morphological and functional unity of the respiratory tract, aligning with the concept of "united airways disease". [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: The Ridden Horse Pain Ethogram (RHpE) comprising 24 behaviours was developed to facilitate the identification of musculoskeletal pain. A RHpE score ≥8/24 indicates the likely presence of musculoskeletal pain. The RHpE was applied to 1358 horses in competition, with a comparison of behaviours in lame and non-lame horses. In a large majority of the non-lame horses, the head was still, the front of the head was in a vertical position or behind the vertical, the eyes were open with no exposure of the sclera, all of the tongue remained within the oral cavity, the bit was symmetrically positioned, and the tail was held straight and carried freely. Horses maintained a regular rhythm and speed in all paces, moving straight on two tracks. Non-lame horses initiated canter with the correct leading forelimb and did not change legs in front or behind; there were no spontaneous changes of gait, no repeated forelimb or hindlimb stumbling, and an absence of bilateral hindlimb toe drag. Horses followed the direction of the rider's cues, with no spooking, and went forward willingly, with an absence of bucking or rearing. Recognition of how a non-lame horse usually behaves may enhance equine welfare and improve training practices. The Ridden Horse Pain Ethogram (RHpE) was developed to facilitate the identification of musculoskeletal pain. The aim of the current study was to collate behavioural data using the RHpE from horses at competitions assumed by their owners and/or riders to be fit for competition. The objectives were to quantify the frequency of occurrence of behaviours in pain-free horses and those with lameness or abnormalities of canter and to determine any differences between disciplines and levels of competition. The RHpE was applied to 1358 horses competing in Grand Prix (GP) dressage (n = 211), 5* three-day events (TDE) (n = 137), or low-level one-day events (ODE) (n = 1010). The median RHpE score for all horses was 4 (interquartile range [IQR] 2, 5; range 0, 12) and the median lameness grade was 0 (IQR 0, 1; range 0, 4). The Kruskal–Wallis test, followed by Dunn's test for pairwise comparisons, found a difference in median RHpE scores between low-level ODE and GP dressage (p = 0.001), but not between 5* TDE and low-level ODE (p = 0.09) or between GP dressage and 5* TDE (p = 1.00). The median RHpE score was highest for low-level ODE. The Chi-square/Fisher's exact test identified a significant difference in prevalence of most of the 24 behaviours of the RHpE in non-lame compared with lame horses. Recognition of the behaviours of non-lame horses may improve equine welfare and performance, and rider comfort, confidence, and safety. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: Proximal metacarpal pain is an important cause of lameness, and its diagnosis can be challenging. In some patients, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is needed for the evaluation of the proximal metacarpal region, and it is valuable for diagnosis. A challenge for these patients is to perform follow-up monitoring if the lesion cannot be visualized using radiography and/or ultrasonography, which is where rescan MRIs come into play. Various injuries have been visualized within the proximal metacarpal region, but it is currently unknown how they evolve in horses returning to soundness. This small case series evaluates various features of the proximal metacarpal region on MRI, which appear important to monitor, and includes hyperintense signals within the dorsal collagenous part of the proximal suspensory ligament (PSL) on T1W/T2*WGRE images, STIR hyperintense signals within the dorsal collagenous part of the PSL, and the third metacarpal bone (McIII). Complete normalization of the dorsal collagenous part of the PSL does not appear necessary for a return to soundness. A resolution of the McIII hyperintense STIR signal is expected for horses returning to soundness, and in this population of horses, there was a mean of 94 days (range: 47–202 days). A rescan time frame of 120 days for the proximal metacarpal region is suggested. The size of the proximal suspensory ligament does not change between the initial and follow-up MRI examinations. Background: This study evaluates the change in an MRI of the proximal metacarpal region in a group of sport horses that returned to work. This retrospective analysis evaluated 18 limbs represented by 17 horses. Results: The hyperintense signal within the dorsal collagenous part of the proximal suspensory ligament (PSL) on T1W/T2*W GRE sequences decreased or stayed the same in the majority of cases. The hyperintense STIR signal within the dorsal collagenous part of the PSL resolved in the majority of the patients, and the third metacarpal bone (McIII) hyperintense STIR signal resolved in all patients. The dorsal margin irregularity of the PSL stayed the same, and McIII sclerosis and resorption of the palmar margin of McIII stayed the same in the majority of cases. McIII hyperintense STIR signal resolution carries a broad time range, with a mean of 94 days and a range of 47–202 days. Conclusions: Complete normalization of the dorsal collagenous part of the PSL does not appear necessary for a return to soundness, but a resolution of the McIII hyperintense STIR signal is expected for horses returning to soundness. A rescan period of 120 days for the proximal metacarpal region is suggested. In addition, there was no significant change in the size of the PSL between the initial and final MRI. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Many traditional horse keeping and training practices can result in poor horse welfare. To assist reform and identify novel opportunities to facilitate improvements in horse welfare, this study sought to gauge the motivations underlying equestrians' horse-keeping and training practices. Nineteen amateur equestrians were interviewed using semi-structured interviews. Systems thinking and self-determination theory, which proposes humans are intrinsically motivated by three psychological needs (competence, autonomy, and relatedness), provided the theoretical framework for the study. Using reflexive thematic analysis, four themes were identified: (1) achieving equestrian goals is the primary motivator; (2) equestrians work hard to develop their equestrian knowledge and skills; (3) equestrians are highly motivated to compete and/or participate in club activities; and (4) achieving a financial return on investment is important to many equestrians. Findings suggest that equestrians do not prioritize the three psychological needs proposed by self-determination theory equally. Competence (goal achievement) was the highest priority for equestrians, followed by the need for autonomy (control), and then relatedness (horse–human partnership). The spectrum of equestrians' motivational priorities suggests that there is an imbalance between horse needs and human needs when selecting horse-keeping and training practices. These insights can be leveraged to develop initiatives that engage all stakeholders, so that meeting human needs and horse needs is more equitably balanced. We also found that equestrians' practices were highly influenced by their desire to participate in competitive equestrian sport, emphasizing the important role equestrian organizations can play in improving horse welfare through the rules of their sports. These findings contribute to the multifaceted reform needed to solve the complex challenge of improving horse welfare, the outcome of which will determine the long-term future of equestrian sport. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article offers information on the 19th ISES International Conference held by the International Society for Equitation Science, focusing on the theme "A Good Life for Horses."

This article seeks to redress the lack of research on women's roles as riding instructors and sport coaches in Britain. During the long nineteenth century, women were enmeshed in professional equestrian activities, and their activities had momentous consequences on the practice of equestrianism as a whole. Women were needed to teach riding to other women because women rode differently from men – on a different saddle and in different clothes. These differences created a space, and a need, for a new kind of female businesswoman, coach, and sporting authority, and enabled a new kind of sporting liberation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article explores the topic of zuclopenthixol decanoate toxicity in horses, focusing on the ethical considerations and potential risks associated with the use of antipsychotic drugs in equine medicine. It discusses the effects of dopamine antagonists on horse behavior and raises concerns about the misuse of these drugs in equestrian sports. The article also examines the use of acepromazine, a drug commonly used in equine anesthesia and behavioral management, and emphasizes the need to prioritize the welfare of horses by minimizing negative emotional states and promoting positive ones. While the use of behavior-modifying drugs may be justified in certain cases, the authors caution against their routine use. [Extracted from the article]