Stop the Spread of Vesicular Stomatitis
Outbreaks of vesicular stomatitis (VS) occur in Texas every several years, but until this June, there were no reported cases since 2014. Because horses near Austin were recently diagnosed with this disease, horse and livestock owners in nearby areas should take precautions to keep their animals safe. VS is a highly-contagious zoonotic disease that causes […]
The Magic of Horses
Texas A&M’s Equine Therapy Program is changing the lives of veterans and people with disabilities. Story by Jeannie Ralston, Spirit Magazine, Texas A&M Foundation The Courtney Cares program makes all the difference for 9-year-old Wyatt Branum (pictured to the right), who was born with Down Syndrome. In four years of riding, he’s made tremendous progress mentally and […]
Don’t Horse Around When it Comes to Hoof Care
Proper hoof care is essential for a horse to be comfortable and active. Comprising a large part of horse veterinary care, the maintenance of horses’ feet is performed by a farrier, a skilled tradesman who specializes in equine shoeing and other hoof-related issues. Jason Maki, the farrier at the Texas A&M College of Veterinary Medicine […]
Equine Dental Health: Straight From the Horse’s Mouth
Horses use their teeth for several functions, including eating, grooming, and defense. Like most other pets, horses need regular check-ups and maintenance for their teeth, which should be done by an equine veterinarian. For National Pet Dental Health Month this February, Dr. Leslie Easterwood, a clinical assistant professor at the Texas A&M College of Veterinary […]
Watch Out for Nasopharyngeal Cicatrix In Horses
Some horses in a narrow region of Texas have developed a condition known as nasopharyngeal cicatrix, which causes scarring of the upper airway. Researchers believe this disease is the result of an environmental agent, but no one knows for sure what causes it or why it is so localized. Dr. Canaan Whitfield, an assistant professor […]
Preparing your horse for severe weather
Severe weather can be troublesome for humans and animals, alike. While small, indoor pets are easier to board and travel with, horses require additional preparedness and precautions. Dr. Jessica Millwood, a resident in equine practice at the Texas A&M College of Veterinary Medicine & Biomedical Sciences, said that planning ahead and paying attention to weather […]
Routine vaccinations are essential for equine health
Vaccines are one of the easiest and most efficient ways to protect your horse’s health, preventing the contraction and spread of infectious diseases including Rabies, West Nile Virus, and Influenza. In continuation of National Immunization Awareness Month, Dr. Leslie Easterwood, a clinical assistant professor at the College of Veterinary Medicine & Biomedical Sciences, offers recommendations […]
Texas A&M Researchers Help Preserve History Through Equine Genetics Study
From the stunning rock formations to the fields of wild flowers, the Theodore Roosevelt National Park in North Dakota offers more than 70,000 acres of adventure. The park is also home to some of the most majestic and breathtaking animals in the United States—wild horses. “Legend has it that the Teddy Roosevelt horses are descendants […]
Horses with Heart
“That horse has a lot of heart.” There is no better compliment to bestow on a ranch horse. Far more than descriptive of its endurance and athleticism, the statement defines a horse’s physical and mental toughness and willingness to try, despite being maximally challenged or physically exhausted. These guys want to give their all, regardless […]
Squamous Cell Carcinoma
Squamous Cell Carcinoma (SCC), a type of skin cancer that commonly occurs on white-skinned areas of horses, can be difficult to treat. That’s why Dr. Leslie Easterwood, a clinical assistant professor at the Texas A&M College of Veterinary Medicine & Biomedical Sciences, said early detection and treatment are key. SCC most commonly occurs at mucocutaneous […]
