Hendra virus is a highly pathogenic novel paramyxovirus causing sporadic fatal infection in horses and humans in Australia. Species of fruit-bats (genus Pteropus), commonly known as flying-foxes, are the natural host of the virus. We undertook a survey of horse owners in the states of Queensland and New South Wales, Australia […]
Veterinarians urged to consider ABLV in horses with neurological signs
The detection of Australian bat lyssavirus (ABLV) in two horses on a Queensland property is a concern for veterinarians and horse owners alike, according to the Australian Veterinary Association. Biosecurity Queensland quarantined a property in the Southern Downs last month after a horse tested positive for ABLV – the first […]
Risk factors for race-associated sudden death in thoroughbred racehorses in the UK (2000-2007)
Reasons for performing study: sudden death adversely affects racehorse welfare, jockey safety and the public perception of horseracing. Objective: to describe the risk of racing-associated sudden death in thoroughbred racehorses in the UK from 2000 to 2007, to identify whether there were risk factors uniquely associated with sudden death and […]
The Role of Bits in Equitation: A Welfare Issue
Introduction Traditionally, the use of a bitted bridle has been the principal method by which the ridden horse has been controlled (Quick & Warren-Smith, 2009). The use of a bit is invasive, since it causes discomfort in the mouth and interferes with breathing (Cook, 1999). Additionally, a bit affects oral […]
Further victims as Hendra outbreak continues
While Queensland and NSW authorities continue the struggle to control the latest hendra outbreak, the virus claimed an unexpected victim almost six weeks after the first case was detected. Towards the end of July a pet dog from a property where three infected horses had already been found tested positive […]