Does Sand Hurt Horses?

Sand is very abrasive and eventually becomes a constant source of irritation. This persistent inflammatory insult reduces the absorptive efficiency of the bowel so it is no surprise that diarrhoea, anorexia, weight loss and depression are often clinical features in affected horses. Is sand safe for horses? Sand particles cling Read more…

Do Horses Lungs Bleed When They Run?

Exercise-induced pulmonary hemorrhage (EIPH), or bleeding from the lungs, occurs world-wide in the performance horse. However, it is observed rarely in other species. EIPH is an important cuase of exercise intolerance. It occurs primarily during spring racing in Quarter Horses, Standardbreds and Thoroughbreds. Do horses bleed when they run? Studies Read more…

Why Is There No White Horse?

Black, brown, bay, chestnut, palomino – horses come in several colours. Except white. Dr Mac explains why. A white horse is actually palomino – it’s a colouration that occurs when a gene causes the hair coat to gradually lose its colour. Do white horses really exist? A white horse has Read more…

What Does Milkshaking A Horse Mean?

‘Milkshaking’ is fundamentally illegal doping of equines. It is the administration of alkalising agents to horses in order to improve their performance. By using a ‘milkshake’ the lactic acid produced by the horse whilst running is neutralised, therefore preventing muscle fatigue and improving performance. What does it mean to milkshake Read more…