Cumberland Valley Equine Service

Cumberland Valley Equine Service A Veterinary Practice Devoted to the Care of Horses-

Call for our list of services! Robert H. Kraybill, DVM

Super important winter water basics.
12/21/2024

Super important winter water basics.

Water is a vital resource for horses year-round, but its importance becomes even greater during the winter months. Maintaining proper hydration is essential for horses to support digestion, overall health, and especially for preventing colic, a potentially life-threatening condition.

In winter, horses may drink less water due to cold temperatures, or water sources might freeze, limiting access. Reduced water intake increases the risk of impaction colic, a condition that occurs when food material becomes lodged in the horse’s digestive tract. This is exacerbated by the dry, fibrous nature of winter forage like hay, which contains less moisture compared to fresh pasture grass. Without sufficient water, the digestive system slows and cannot properly break down this material, potentially leading to blockages.

Encouraging adequate water consumption is critical. Horses should normally drink 5-12 gallons of water daily, and ensuring the water is warm enough—between 45-65°F—can help encourage drinking. Studies show that horses are more likely to consume warm water during cold weather. Using heated water buckets or tank deicers can prevent freezing and make water more appealing.

Fun Fact: Research shows that horses drink almost 40% more water per day if given warm water (45-65 °F) instead of near-freezing water. (Kristula and McDonnell, 1994)

Electrolytes or salt supplements can also stimulate thirst, prompting horses to drink more. Offering soaked hay or adding water to feed can provide additional hydration. However, soaking hay or feed isn’t recommended in environments where these items would freeze solid before being consumed by the horse.

Preventing dehydration in winter is a proactive measure to safeguard against colic. Regularly monitoring water intake and ensuring clean, accessible, and palatable water is essential. By addressing these needs, horse owners can help maintain their horses’ health and comfort throughout the colder months.

If you have questions or concerns about your horses' winter water intake, contact your veterinarian.

Dr. Fauci isn't the only one recovering from West Nile Virus!  https://www.dep.pa.gov/Business/ProgramIntegration/Vector...
08/30/2024

Dr. Fauci isn't the only one recovering from West Nile Virus! https://www.dep.pa.gov/Business/ProgramIntegration/Vector-Management/Mosquitoes/Pages/default.aspx CVES attended a horse with suggestive clinical signs that tested positive this week in Cumberland County. WNV has remained a human and equine health threat for many years, and it is still here. Regional occurrence, along with Eastern Equine Encephalitis (also human threat), may be experiencing an up-tick from the recent hot, humid weather. The equine vaccines are safe and effective at preventing these mosquito-borne viral diseases.

These static maps show 2024 positive West Nile Virus counties in red and 2024 positive Jamestown Canyon Virus counties in yellow.

Foundational horse nutrition!
05/16/2024

Foundational horse nutrition!

If you believe that horses need grain in their diet to meet their nutritional needs, you are not alone. However, horses should get most of their nutrients from a good quality forage source such as grass, hay, hay pellets, or a complete feed.

Horses generally eat between 1.5-2% of their body weight each day, so an average size 1,000 lbs horse should eat 15- 20 lbs of hay daily. To help fill any nutrient gaps such as essential vitamins or minerals, a ration balancer may be beneficial. Depending on breed, body condition, and exercise level, concentrates may be added in to provide additional energy but are often not needed.

When deciding on what to feed your horse, it is best to invest in high quality forages as the foundation of your feeding plan. You can even have your hay tested to see exactly what nutrients it is providing. Please consult with your veterinarian or an equine nutritionist about your horse's diet before making any major changes, and remember that any changes should be made gradually over time to avoid GI upset.

Brought to you by the AAEP Horse Owner Education Committee

Address

5060 Harmony Grove Rd
Dover, PA
17315

Opening Hours

Monday 10am - 5pm
Tuesday 8:30am - 5pm
Wednesday 8:30am - 5pm
Thursday 8:30am - 5pm
Friday 8:30am - 5pm

Telephone

+17174675757

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