Avon Ridge Equine Veterinary Services

24/03/2025

🐴 HEADSHAKING ❗️

A recent study led by the Royal Veterinary College (RVC) evaluated the effectiveness of electroacupuncture in treating trigeminal nerve-mediated headshaking (TMHS) in horses. TMHS is a distressing condition causing involuntary head movements, significantly impacting equine welfare and performance. Traditional treatments have had limited success, prompting exploration of alternative therapies.

In this retrospective study, clinical records from 2015 to 2024 were analyzed, encompassing 42 horses diagnosed with TMHS and treated with electroacupuncture. Data collected included patient profiles, disease duration and severity, diagnostic tests performed, number of electroacupuncture sessions, and treatment outcomes as reported by owners or primary veterinarians.

Findings revealed that electroacupuncture was well-tolerated across all subjects, with minimal complications. Notably, 64% of the horses exhibited improvement in headshaking symptoms following treatment, and 33% achieved complete resolution. These results are comparable to those observed with percutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (PENS), another neuromodulation technique used for TMHS. Advantages of electroacupuncture include its low complication rate and the feasibility of performing the procedure on-site at the horse’s location.

The study suggests that refining electroacupuncture techniques—such as adjusting treatment duration or electrical frequencies—could enhance success rates and prolong remission periods. Additionally, thoroughly ruling out other potential causes of headshaking before treatment is essential for optimal outcomes.

Professor Bettina Dunkel, Head of RVC Equine and lead researcher, stated, “Electroacupuncture is a viable treatment option for horses suffering from this devastating disease. We are very pleased with the results of the study and hope that it will encourage veterinarians and horse owners to pursue this treatment option.”

This research offers promising insights into alternative TMHS treatments, potentially improving the quality of life for affected horses and providing veterinarians with effective therapeutic options.

https://www.rvc.ac.uk/equine-vet/news/new-rvc-led-research-assesses-success-of-electroacupuncture-in-treating-equine-tmhs?fbclid=IwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAR0ziTMY_vFuNuVga88TQpszD7jXHPnIZg1a1m-AD-gKJoqOuIJw3QszAbE_aem_M1bVIunts8xQtZ6IFaqbmw

Equine Vet section menu RVC Equine Practice Hospital and Specialists Research Info and Advice 24 Hour Contact: 01707 666297

23/03/2025

F***l egg counts don’t tell you how many parasites your horse has! Still need convincing? Comment ‘worm’ to learn what the experts have to say!

21/03/2025

When your 4th year vet student starts taking over… Cara confidently scanning with the wireless ultrasound. I’m just the driver and horse wrangler now. Should’ve brought snacks for my demotion! 🤣

17/03/2025

Really interesting work being done at the University of Florida on anhidrosis in horses.

Anhidrosis, or the inability to sweat properly, is a condition that affects some horses, particularly in hot and humid climates. Since sweating is the primary way horses regulate body temperature, anhidrosis can lead to dangerous overheating and reduced performance.

Causes and Risk Factors

The exact cause of anhidrosis is not fully understood, but it is thought to involve dysfunction of the sweat glands due to chronic overstimulation by stress hormones. Horses living in warm environments, those with a genetic predisposition, and those exposed to prolonged high temperatures are at higher risk.

Signs of Anhidrosis

Horses with anhidrosis may show:

• Little to no sweat even when exercising or in hot weather
• Rapid breathing and panting to compensate for poor heat dissipation
• Lethargy and reluctance to work
• Dry, flaky skin and poor coat condition

Diagnosis and Treatment

A veterinarian may diagnose anhidrosis based on clinical signs and a “sweat test” using a drug that stimulates sweat production. While there is no cure, management strategies include:

• Providing shade, fans, and cool water baths
• Exercising during cooler parts of the day
• Offering electrolyte supplements
• Moving the horse to a cooler climate if possible

Early recognition and supportive care are key to keeping affected horses comfortable and safe. If you suspect your horse has anhidrosis, consult your veterinarian for tailored management strategies.

UF College of Veterinary Medicine veterinarians and scientists hope research will shed light on better ways of treating equine anhidrosis, a condition that i...

16/03/2025

🩺 New Research on Pergolide & Insulin Dysregulation in Horses

A recent study from our friends at the University of Melbourne has provided important insights into managing PPID (Cushings) and Equine Metabolic Syndrome (EMS)—two major endocrine disorders linked to insulin dysregulation (ID) and laminitis risk.

🔬 Key Findings:
💊 Pergolide (Prascend®) does NOT improve insulin sensitivity in horses with EMS or PPID+ID.
💊 However, in horses with PPID+ID, pergolide reduced post-prandial insulin spikes.
💊 For EMS horses without PPID, pergolide had NO effect on insulin levels.

⚠️ Why This Matters:
❗ PPID & EMS require different management approaches. Pergolide helps treat PPID but is NOT a treatment for EMS or insulin dysregulation alone.

📌 The Importance of Accurate Diagnosis and Interpretation. Diagnosing PPID and EMS correctly is crucial because test results must be interpreted in context. An insulin test alone won’t differentiate between EMS and PPID+ID, and improper management can put your horse at higher risk of laminitis or delay recovery from laminitis.

That’s why working with an experienced veterinarian who understands the complexities of insulin dysregulation is key. A test result is only as useful as the interpretation behind it.

📞 If you have questions about managing PPID, EMS, or laminitis, please get in touch. With extensive clinical and research experience in diagnosing and managing complex cases of insulin dysregulation, I understand the subtle intricacies of these conditions—ensuring a precise, tailored approach that not only helps improve recovery from laminitis but also helps prevent it in the future.

🩺 Contact us on 0427 072 095 or book an appointment online: https://avonridgeequine.com.au/book-an-appointment/

11/03/2025

📣 Webinar Invitation: Precision Care for Senior Horses

Senior horses are particularly vulnerable to metabolic, orthopedic, and weight issues, and early intervention can make all the difference.

Join me for this webinar, where I’ll discuss how a precision medicine approach can help senior horses live healthier, longer lives. We’ll cover key strategies in nutrition, early disease detection, and personalized management to optimize their well-being.

🔗 Sign-up below!

Want to learn more? Join us for our online webinar in partnership with Horseland on Wednesday 19th March featuring guest speaker Dr Tania Sundra BSc.(Hons) BVMS MANZCVS (Equine Medicine) from Avon Ridge Equine Veterinary Services.

Dr Sundra will provide veterinary advice and actionable tips to keep your senior horse healthy and thriving in this practical and engaging webinar. And just by attending you have the chance to win a Weatherbeeta rug pack to the value of RRP $300 or a Virbac senior horse health pack to the value of RRP $200.

Register here: register.gotowebinar.com/register/4316377431729455960

06/03/2025

✨ Murphy’s Incredible Transformation! ✨

From 626kg to 484kg in almost 18mths, laminitis-free, and off all medications—Murphy’s journey is nothing short of inspiring! Thanks to his dedicated owner’s unwavering commitment, he has not only shed the extra weight but also achieved completely normal insulin levels.

Laminitis and equine metabolic syndrome can feel like an uphill battle, but with the right support- tailored diet, correct veterinary advice and a good farrier—success is possible. Murphy is living proof!

Huge congratulations to his owner for giving him the best chance at a long and healthy life.

🏆 Has your horse overcome a health challenge? We’d love to hear your story!

05/03/2025

📢 Attention Clients – Check Your Inbox! 📢

For the first time, a study by Entwisle & McConnell (2025) has examined the effectiveness of a common treatment for sand accumulation in horses right here in Western Australia. 🌾🐴

In our latest client email, we break down the key findings to help you better understand and prevent sand colic in your horse. Check your inbox so you don’t miss this important update!

❓Not on our mailing list? Sign up here: https://avonridgeequine.aweb.page/p/36231e51-161d-46b1-835f-61669e59a1db

27/02/2025

23/02/2025

👉 Type EMS in the comments below for our insulin testing cheat-sheet!

21/02/2025

🌟 Friday cuteness 💕

17/02/2025

🐺 We had an early morning start for a Monday, but this guy never, ever complains! 🌟

09/02/2025

Vets around Perth have seen a rise in cases of annual ryegrass toxicity in recent months. It’s crucial for owners to recognize the signs and understand the risks. Stay informed and keep your horses safe. 👉 Free ARGT Ebook: https://avonridgeequine.aweb.page/p/8a489a0e-e301-4a18-b033-477815572462

09/02/2025

Colic: The Most Common and Urgent Equine Emergency

Colic refers to abdominal pain, but the severity and causes can vary greatly—from mild gas to life-threatening intestinal twists (torsions or displacements).

Colic can progress rapidly, and delays in treatment may reduce the chances of a full recovery.

Common signs of colic:

• Restlessness or pawing at the ground
• Rolling or thrashing
• Looking at the belly or kicking at the abdomen
• Lack of appetite or interest in food
• Sweating or rapid breathing
• Absence of normal gut sounds or excessive gut noises

What to do if your horse shows signs of colic:

• Call your veterinarian immediately.
• Remove food but allow access to water.
• Monitor your horse’s vital signs—heart rate, respiratory rate, gum color, and capillary refill time.
• Walking may help with gas colic and prevent rolling, but it should not be forced if the horse is too distressed.
• Do not administer any medications without your veterinarian’s advice, as some painkillers can mask symptoms and delay diagnosis.

🩺 Contact us on 0427 072 095 or book an appointment online: https://avonridgeequine.com.au/book-an-appointment/

04/02/2025

“The same vets who answer my calls in the middle of the night are doing surgery or attending emergency calls at 8am.”

Thanks to Guardian Australia for shining a spotlight on the veterinary shortage crisis, off the back of the Jobs and Skills Australia report which highlights the essential role of veterinarians in Australia’s food supply chain and food security.

The AVA continues to push for much needed investment in the veterinary sector – including student debt forgiveness and extending the Commonwealth Prac Payment Scheme to veterinary students – to support more vets in regional Australia.

Read the full article, here: https://bit.ly/3CFeNMP

03/02/2025

☀️ Early morning gastroscopies. It’s a little chilly in the valley right now but sure beats working (and sedating horses) in the heat of the day!

29/01/2025

🌟 Twiggy is looking fantastic at 27 years! This beautiful Thoroughbred mare has been loved and cared for by her owners her entire life, and it shows. Thanks to their dedication, she’s happy, healthy, and still full of attitude!

29/01/2025

Vaccinating with tetanus toxoid induces a strong immune response, producing circulating antibodies that provide complete protection against the disease. For foals born to vaccinated mares, a primary 3-dose series of tetanus toxoid is recommended, beginning at 4-6 months of age, to ensure they build immunity. The doses should be spaced at appropriate intervals (outlined below) to maintain effective protection as the foal grows.

Vaccinating horses is important as tetanus is a potentially fatal disease which is caused by the Clostridium tetani bacteria found in soil. Horses are at high risk because even small, unnoticed wounds can become contaminated with tetanus spores. Once the spores enter the body and the conditions are favorable, they germinate and produce a powerful neurotoxin that affects the central nervous system.

Tetanus symptoms in horses include:

Pr*****ed third eyelids
A stiff, rigid gait (often with the tail raised)
Lockjaw
Rigid muscles
Convulsions in severe cases

If left untreated, tetanus can cause death due to respiratory failure.

🩺 Contact us on 0427 072 095 or book an appointment online: https://avonridgeequine.com.au/book-an-appointment/