Fly control is about more than simple fly spray. It’s a comprehensive and preventative approach to managing the fly population to the lowest tolerable level. Whilst we’ll never be able to eliminate flies completely, there’s a lot we can do to keep them manageable and help our horses tolerate their presence. But before we get started on…
Horse Health
Pea protein isolate is a relatively new product in South Africa, but as owners begin to see the impact of this powerful supplement, its popularity is increasing. Traditionally, horses have derived protein from sources like alfalfa, soy, and flax, but pea protein isolate (PPI) is emerging as a viable and perhaps better alternative. This article…
Colitis is inflammation of the large or small colon that can lead to diarrhoea and associated loss of fluid and salt, proliferation of harmful bacteria, and even death in severe cases. This potentially life-threatening condition can arise from various causes, but unfortunately, it is often difficult to pinpoint precisely which is the main instigating factor. Presentation…
Text: Hannah Botha Horse owners today are becoming increasingly aware of drug resistance to the common dewormers available to us, which has led many to search for alternatives. Diatomaceous earth (DE) has become one such alternative that many owners are turning to instead of the marketed dewormers. Diatomaceous earth DE is a source of silica which comes…
Q: What signs might suggest a horse has kissing spines? A: Kissing spines, otherwise known as overriding/impinging dorsal spinous processes, are a common diagnosis in ridden horses. Kissing spines are usually suspected when horses show signs of back pain. These signs might include the following: A negative reaction to pressure being applied along the spine or…
With so much to look forward to as the New Year begins, and foals taking their first wobbly steps all over social media, we felt it was an excellent time to look at how these extraordinary creatures come into being. From day zero Any discussion about the development of a foal has to begin on day…
Text: Hannah Botha, MSc In the realm of equine nutrition and health, every horse owner aims to provide the best care possible for their beloved steeds, and that extends to supplementing their diet according to their needs. Among the various supplements available on the market, psyllium is getting increasing attention as a noteworthy inclusion in equine diets, but…
Mud fever, also known as pastern dermatitis, equine dermatophilosis, cracked or greasy heels, is a common but potentially serious skin condition affecting horses, particularly in wet and muddy conditions. South Africa’s climate, with its seasonal rainfall and damp paddocks, can create the perfect environment for this condition to thrive. With the wet weather up in…
Q: My horse recently experienced an episode where he tied-up. I’d like to know if I can improve his diet in some way to make his muscles function a little better. What principles should I follow for doing this? A: Tying-up, the common name for exertional rhabdomyolysis, is a broad term used to describe a wide…
Tying up was once thought of as a racehorse-only muscle disease, but we now know that more equines are at risk of tying up than we originally thought, including those in low levels of work. What is tying up? Tying up is a muscle disease of horses, known in technical terminology as exertional rhabdomyolysis. More colloquially,…

