Lone Star Park Equine Hospital

01/20/2023

12/19/2022

Scientists are studying the safety, efficacy, mechanisms of action, and pharmacokinetics of equine nutritional supplements.

09/25/2022

The peacocks of White Rock Stables …

Vol. 13, No. 38 September 23 - 29, 2022

08/31/2022

08/18/2022

08/14/2022

08/11/2022

08/10/2022

Equus Magazine Arterial failures that result in the sudden deaths of racehorses and other equine athletes tend to garner the most attention, this problem is seen in a wide variety of horses.

08/10/2022

The horse resides in Fairfax County.

08/09/2022

8 ways to meet the season’s challenges

08/09/2022

08/08/2022

Test results from a second, potentially exposed horse on the property are pending.

08/08/2022

Did you know snakes reach their highest numbers in August and September, when their babies are born?

Snakes commonly found in the United States, like copperheads and rattlers, can cause serious injury to a horse. Equines are at the top of the list of sensitivity to snakebites, and are followed in order by sheep, cows, goats, dogs, pigs, and cats. Horses almost always get bitten on the muzzle, and the spread of the venom containing enzymes, peptides and neurotoxins can be fatal. The resultant swelling can be so extreme that the nostrils almost close and breathing can become difficult or impossible. Shock is the most common problem following snakebites and prompt treatment is necessary.

If you know or suspect that your horse has been bitten by a snake, call your veterinarian immediately. Better to have a false alarm than to play catch-up later in a crisis situation.

Talk to your horse doctor about the likelihood of snake attacks in your area and seek guidance regarding the best preventative and treatment options.

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Related resources:



"Snakebit!," written by Dr. Kenneth L. Marcella: https://aaep.org/issue/snakebit



Snakebite vaccine guidelines: https://aaep.org/guidelines/vaccination-guidelines/risk-based-vaccination-guidelines/snake-bite

08/08/2022

Some people believe petting a fearful horse will teach it to act more upset in the future. Read what our expert says.

08/08/2022

Horses can give us plenty of cues when they're dealing with early illness. To help you recognize them and intervene accordingly, we've put together this 10-point list of warning signs.

08/08/2022

Researchers reflect on horse trailer design and long-distance travel as they affect stress in horses.

08/07/2022

"What we look for in a therapy horse [at Hearts And Horses]: patience, intelligence, strength, and kindness. Shortly after he stepped off the trailer, we realized Rocket has these qualities in spades.

Rocket came to our center after retiring from working cattle and barrel racing. A 16h Quarter Horse with soft, dark brown eyes capable of melting your heart, Rocket is a gentle giant in our barn. Nothing phases this ranch horse who touches the hearts of each of his riders. His connection with one family, in particular, is unforgettable.

Cheryl was diagnosed with early-onset Alzheimer's and Benson's Syndrome which affected her vision. Things were hard for Cheryl. At first, she was wary, but soon realized Rocket is a gentle giant capable of giving her freedom back. They spent an hour each week slowly traversing the arena. Rocket was always willing to stand quietly when Cheryl needed a break. During those moments, she would naturally begin stroking his shoulders, and there was no protest from Rocket! Cheryl came to life each day she spent with him.

Over time, Cheryl's husband David began volunteering with her and he too fell in love with Rocket. The couple arrived early to spend time loving on Rocket in his favorite spots, producing a reaction only those two could produce from him. Each week, our team would try to sneak into the barn to catch a glimpse of this special interaction. After Cheryl's passing, David still comes to the barn once a week to give Rocket his scratches." —Summer A.

Rocket, from all of us at Hope in the Saddle, Nutrena Feed, and Tractor Supply Co., thank you for all you do!

08/07/2022