These are the type of stories we want you to write about BVEH.
Client Outcome:
If you are a veterinarian, try to remember the last time one of your clients scheduled a visit because they were having a GREAT day and just wanted you to be a part of it. Unheard of, right? In today’s veterinary market place, success requires attention not only to the patient outcome but also to the client outcome.
Let’s look at Equine practice. Horse owners come to us because their horse is sick, lame, infertile or needs traveling papers. Unless they seek us out because they are trying to prevent sickness or lameness, those are the four reasons we see clients and their patients. The patient outcome is very important but we can’t get to 100%. All horses don’t get well, all horses don’t go sound and all horses don’t become fertile. That’s as good as it gets with patient outcome.
How about client outcome? It is my opinion that if it is important to us, veterinarians can learn to have good client outcome even though the patient didn’t make it. How can that be? Communication and empathy, that’s how.
I had a great client outcome experience the other day and that’s what motivated me to write this blog. The experience was with a car dealership, no really! We have a Toyota. When we purchased the car, routine service was included for X number of miles. I’m not naïve; I don’t think the service was free. It seems similar to a wellness program in an equine practice. I paid in advance for service to be delivered later that should make my car last longer…not much difference from a good wellness program in equine practice.
Ok, here is my experience with the Toyota dealer. I made an appointment for 7 AM to have the service done while I waited. I pulled up just before seven, parked in front of the glass roll up door and saw a beehive of activity inside. The unusual thing was that almost everyone was smiling like they meant it! At exactly seven the door rolled up and a guy came out to greet me. He seemed so enthusiastic to service my car that he ducked under the door as it was going up just to get to the Rav4 a little quicker.
He knew my name, he knew why I was there, he knew I was going to wait and he assured me that he wanted to get my car out with the best service in the shortest time so I could get on with my day. Since the paperwork was in order already, there was nothing to do but step out of the car so the guy who drives the car inside could get going. The guy who greeted me said “come with me”. He led me into a great waiting room with 4 seating areas, each one with a flat screen on a different channel. There were newspapers on the tables in each seating area. He handed me a poker-chip-looking-thing and led me to a little café in the corner. The chip was for a free coffee, soda, tea or whatever I wanted. The café sold those things as well as breakfast. I know that anywhere you get your car serviced, they will give you coffee. Those places just can’t match the experience I had at this dealership. My guy’s parting words were “you relax in here and I’ll come and get you when your car is ready, I won’t forget, you don’t need to worry about it”. Since he was still smiling, anticipated my concerns and really acted like he cared, I believed him and didn’t pace the floor like I usually do. I was sitting in a nice couch watching sports center and answering email on my iPhone when he came back. My car was ready he walked with me to rerieve it.
The dealership staff did was what they were supposed to do, service my car. However, they also made sure that my experience was better than any other mechanic had ever provided. I believed that they really cared and my car and I were both a priority. It was so impressive that now I’m writing a blog, drawing a parallel between equine practice and oil changing in car dealerships.
If you read Fred Lee’s book, 91/2 Things You Would Do Different if Disney Ran Your Practice, you will learn that our objective is not a satisfied client but rather a loyal client with a story to tell. The client experience accompanying an oil change did it for me. Whether its an experience with wellness program or in a hospital waiting room I think we can all aspire to create loyal clients with stories to tell.
Tuesday, August 28, 2012
Nutrition for Rehabilitating the Starved Horse
Nutrition for Rehabilitating the Starved Horse: UC Davis researchers tested three different diets found that high-quality alfalfa hay is most effective for rehabilitating a starved horse. They also developed feeding recommendations for thin or emaciated horses....
Equine Electrolytes, Exercise, and the Heat
Equine Electrolytes, Exercise, and the Heat: Ensuring your horse consumes his baseline sodium, potassium, and chloride requirements first and then using electrolyte supplements as needed to replace sweat losses will maximize performance and protect against related health problems....
Surgical Options for Managing Roaring in Horses
Surgical Options for Managing Roaring in Horses: When treating equine recurrent laryngeal neuropathy, commonly known as roaring, the surgical technique selection should be based on the intended use of the horse, owner/trainer expectations, and the procedure's risks compared with the possible gain....
Weed of the Month: Wild Carrot
Weed of the Month: Wild Carrot: Wild carrot, also known as Queen Anneââ,¬â"¢s lace, is found in pastures, native areas, fields, and roadsides. Mild neurotoxicity to horses was reported in Europe but is not considered a serious threat in North America....
Fall Pasture Management Following a Drought
Fall Pasture Management Following a Drought: The recent drought has affected crop production severely, and many horse farm managers and horse owners have noticed that pastures have suffered as well....
Underweight Horses: Surveillance, Management Considerations
Underweight Horses: Surveillance, Management Considerations: Neglect isn't the only reason horses become underweight. A variety of issues can cause low body weight in horses, including dental problems, parasite infestations, and chronic disease....
Animal Health Agency Launches Emergency Response Team
Animal Health Agency Launches Emergency Response Team:
| TAHC Announces Horseback Emergency Response Team TAHC Rides for the Brand |
| AUSTIN - The Texas Animal Health Commission (TAHC) is excited to announce its new horseback emergency response team. As part of the Texas Division of Emergency Management (TDEM) state response structure, the TAHC is designated as the lead state agency for animal issues in disasters. Launching this group of approximately 20 agency responders will enhance the state’s capability to assist the citizens of Texas with animal issues during disasters. According to Amanda Bernhard, TAHC Emergency Management Coordinator, “Disasters in the past have revealed the need for responders on horseback to help with livestock handling issues. Public safety as well as animal safety can be compromised when displaced animals are found on public roadways, as occurred during Hurricane Ike in 2008. Experienced riders on horseback will be invaluable in capturing stray livestock, as well as assisting with other “search” or “damage assessment” operations in isolated or affected areas.” The horse responder team is comprised of TAHC animal health inspectors whose primary role in the aftermath of a disaster will be to assist with locating, rounding up, identifying, and moving livestock. The horse team will also perform any other appropriate duties as requested by local and state responders. In general, the TAHC staff will work to reunite stray livestock with their owners, assist local jurisdictions with shelter activities, support any unmet needs of impacted livestock and poultry producers, as well as assist the local veterinary community that may be affected by a catastrophic event. Dr. Dee Ellis, TAHC Executive Director and State Veterinarian stated, “The development of a mounted response team is a testimony to the dedication of TAHC personnel. These employees are volunteering to put themselves and their horses in harm’s way to help with emergency response operations. In the future, with proper training, these responders could assist not only with animal disaster issues, but also participate in other response roles as requested, including providing horseback security services, or participating in search and rescue operations.” For more information about the TAHC visit www.tahc.state.tx.us or call 1-800-550-8242. The Texas Animal Health Commission (TAHC), one of the oldest state agencies, was founded in 1893 by the legislature with a mission to combat the fever tick that plagued the Texas cattle industry. Today, the agency protects the health and marketability of all Texas livestock, including: cattle, equine, swine, sheep and goats, poultry, and exotic livestock and fowl. ### |
Does Age of the First Race Impact How Long a Horse Races?
Interesting study out of Austrailia that shows no real impact of early racing on length of career, but rather that the earlier a horse starts the first race the longer the career. - Ben Buchanan
The association of age at first start with career length in the Australian Thoroughbred racehorse population:
The association of age at first start with career length in the Australian Thoroughbred racehorse population:
Reasons for performing study
Studies of Thoroughbred racing populations have provided evidence of a positive effect on racing careers for horses that commence racing as 2-year-olds. Currently, research investigating the presence of this effect in the Australian Thoroughbred racing population is limited.
Objectives
To investigate the association between age at first start and career length in the Australian Thoroughbred population and estimate the risk of racing retirement for horses racing in Australia based on age at first start, career earnings, number of starts as a 2-year-old, and distance raced.
Methods
Data were collected for Thoroughbreds, born on or after January 1, 1998, that had raced between August 1, 2000 and February 22, 2011 in Australia. A Kaplan-Meier survival curve, stratified by age group, was produced for career length. A Cox proportional hazard model was fitted to assess factors influencing the risk of retirement from racing. The model included sex, age at first start, career earnings, number of starts as a 2-year-old, distance raced and appropriate interaction terms.
Results
The study population included 117,088 horses. Geldings had significantly (p<0.001) longer careers than females and intact males, and females had significantly (p<0.001) longer careers than intact males. Risk of retirement from racing decreased with a younger age at first start, a higher number of starts as 2-year-old, and a longer average distance raced. For intact males, the risk of retirement from racing increased as earnings increased, while for females and geldings the risk of retirement from racing decreased as earnings increased.
Conclusions and potential relevance
The introduction of young Thoroughbreds to racing appears to have no apparent adverse effects on these horses racing in Australia. The impact of some risk factors associated with retirement from racing varied between sexes and should be considered when evaluating career outcomes.
Monday, August 20, 2012
Tax Matters – Issues Concerning Criminal Tax Evasion
Tax Matters – Issues Concerning Criminal Tax Evasion:
EC August/September, 2012
For people in the farming and livestock industries the main worry in an IRS audit is the hobby loss rule and whether certain farm losses will be allowed as tax deductions. For some people, however, in all walks of life, a greater concern exists: the possibility of being prosecuted for tax evasion. Under Section 7201 of the Internal Revenue Code, it is a federal crime for anyone to willfully attempt to evade or defeat the payment of federal income taxes. By “attempt” the statute means that the individual knew or should have known that he had taxable income which he was required by law to report during the tax years involved, but failed to report the income.
Most individuals who fail to file tax returns, or under-report income or take inflated tax deductions — may end up being assessed a “fraud” penalty, which enhances the tax liability but does not proceed into the criminal arena. Most of the criminal cases involve individuals who fail to report large amounts of income, take unauthorized deductions for personal expenses, or park money in unreported offshore accounts. Usually they also fail to cooperate with investigators.
If in the course of an audit an IRS revenue agent suspects fraud, he can impose penalties himself, or he can refer the case to the Criminal Investigation Division (CID). The CID is part of the enforcement mechanism for the IRS.
The CID has broad powers. In fact, a taxpayer may not even know the CID is investigating him until the taxpayer is formally charged. The CID takes its task very seriously and conducts very thorough investigations.
You might be tipped off that you are the target of a CID investigation if CID agents contact any of your friends, your employer, co-workers, neighbors, bankers, credit card companies, or your spouse. CID agents are federal investigators who have been trained in law enforcement techniques, and they can obtain subpoenas of records. If records are subpoenaed you probably won’t know about it because the subpoenas can be shielded from disclosure to you.
The CID may monitor mail and may apply for a court order for a phone tap. This happens all the time.
A number of tax evasion cases involve people who don’t inform the IRS of interest earned at offshore banks, which is supposed to be reported on Form 1040, Schedule B. One is required to complete TD F90-221 if the aggregate amount held in foreign accounts exceeds $10,000 at any time during the tax year. By subpoenaing records of U.S. credit card companies or other records, the CID can, in roundabout fashion, get effective means to investigate the existence of offshore bank accounts.
Greater resources are devoted to tax evasion than in previous years because it is a means of getting large amounts of tax revenue, and criminal cases provide publicity that acts as a major deterrent to others.
The best strategy for a taxpayer who might be the subject of an investigation is to hire an attorney to intervene at an early stage, and work to settle the case.
Once an individual is indicted, the chances of obtaining a conviction are overwhelming. A conviction for tax evasion frequently entails a prison sentence and substantial fines on top of the tax liability asserted by the IRS.
In addition to charges of tax evasion, the indictment will often add the charge of filing a false return, a felony, which alleges that the taxpayer submitted false or misleading information on tax returns. In such cases, the IRS does not have to prove the taxpayer intended to evade tax laws. Rather, it merely must prove that the taxpayer filed a false return.
It is crucial, if you are faced with an audit and have unreported income or other serious issues, to consult a tax attorney because proper handling of your case can mean the difference between a civil and criminal proceeding.
John Alan Cohan is a lawyer who has served the horse, livestock and farming industries since l98l. He serves clients in all 50 states, and can be reached by telephone at (3l0) 278-0203 or via e-mail at JohnAlanCohan@aol.com, or visit his website at www.JohnAlanCohan.com.
Related posts:
EC August/September, 2012
For people in the farming and livestock industries the main worry in an IRS audit is the hobby loss rule and whether certain farm losses will be allowed as tax deductions. For some people, however, in all walks of life, a greater concern exists: the possibility of being prosecuted for tax evasion. Under Section 7201 of the Internal Revenue Code, it is a federal crime for anyone to willfully attempt to evade or defeat the payment of federal income taxes. By “attempt” the statute means that the individual knew or should have known that he had taxable income which he was required by law to report during the tax years involved, but failed to report the income.
Most individuals who fail to file tax returns, or under-report income or take inflated tax deductions — may end up being assessed a “fraud” penalty, which enhances the tax liability but does not proceed into the criminal arena. Most of the criminal cases involve individuals who fail to report large amounts of income, take unauthorized deductions for personal expenses, or park money in unreported offshore accounts. Usually they also fail to cooperate with investigators.
If in the course of an audit an IRS revenue agent suspects fraud, he can impose penalties himself, or he can refer the case to the Criminal Investigation Division (CID). The CID is part of the enforcement mechanism for the IRS.
The CID has broad powers. In fact, a taxpayer may not even know the CID is investigating him until the taxpayer is formally charged. The CID takes its task very seriously and conducts very thorough investigations.
You might be tipped off that you are the target of a CID investigation if CID agents contact any of your friends, your employer, co-workers, neighbors, bankers, credit card companies, or your spouse. CID agents are federal investigators who have been trained in law enforcement techniques, and they can obtain subpoenas of records. If records are subpoenaed you probably won’t know about it because the subpoenas can be shielded from disclosure to you.
The CID may monitor mail and may apply for a court order for a phone tap. This happens all the time.
A number of tax evasion cases involve people who don’t inform the IRS of interest earned at offshore banks, which is supposed to be reported on Form 1040, Schedule B. One is required to complete TD F90-221 if the aggregate amount held in foreign accounts exceeds $10,000 at any time during the tax year. By subpoenaing records of U.S. credit card companies or other records, the CID can, in roundabout fashion, get effective means to investigate the existence of offshore bank accounts.
Greater resources are devoted to tax evasion than in previous years because it is a means of getting large amounts of tax revenue, and criminal cases provide publicity that acts as a major deterrent to others.
The best strategy for a taxpayer who might be the subject of an investigation is to hire an attorney to intervene at an early stage, and work to settle the case.
Once an individual is indicted, the chances of obtaining a conviction are overwhelming. A conviction for tax evasion frequently entails a prison sentence and substantial fines on top of the tax liability asserted by the IRS.
In addition to charges of tax evasion, the indictment will often add the charge of filing a false return, a felony, which alleges that the taxpayer submitted false or misleading information on tax returns. In such cases, the IRS does not have to prove the taxpayer intended to evade tax laws. Rather, it merely must prove that the taxpayer filed a false return.
It is crucial, if you are faced with an audit and have unreported income or other serious issues, to consult a tax attorney because proper handling of your case can mean the difference between a civil and criminal proceeding.
John Alan Cohan is a lawyer who has served the horse, livestock and farming industries since l98l. He serves clients in all 50 states, and can be reached by telephone at (3l0) 278-0203 or via e-mail at JohnAlanCohan@aol.com, or visit his website at www.JohnAlanCohan.com.
Related posts:
Equine Accounting and Taxes: Who Gets the Farm?
Equine Accounting and Taxes: Who Gets the Farm?:
When an asset owned by a spouse is transferred as a result of divorce, there are no immediate tax consequences to either spouse. The one transferring the title to the other spouse does not recognize any gain, even if the home may have appreciated in value since it was purchased.
Likewise, the spouse receiving the home does not recognize any income either. However, the spouse who obtains title to the home steps into the shoes of the other person when it comes to basis (generally the amount of your investment in a property for tax purposes). In effect, the spouse who winds up with the home also winds up with a potential tax bill.
When the spouse that has received title to the house later sells the house, the gain on the sale (prior to exclusions) will be calculated using the original basis of the house, not including any payments that you made to your spouse as part of obtaining title. That can mean a hefty tax bill for you.
For example, Mary and John Smith buy a farm during their marriage for $600,000. At the time of divorce, the fair market value of the house is $800,000. Mary pays John $200,000 to obtain sole ownership of the property. Years later, she sells the property for $950,000. She has assumed that she will owe taxes (subject to other tax exclusions) on $150K ($950K less $600K original basis less $200K that she paid to John). Wrong! The $200K that she paid to John is not included in the tax basis of the property so she will owe taxes on $350K.
The “payment” does not just include money that you pay to your spouse. If you agree to receive the farm in the settlement, and in exchange your spouse will be allowed to maintain ownership of $200K in a joint bank account, that would treated by the IRS as a payment by you to your spouse. There are other similar situations that would be treated as a payment by you, subsequent to a divorce, that would not be included in the basis of the property for purposes of calculating a gain.
What does that mean to you? Your tax professional or attorney needs to make an educated guess on what your future tax liability would be on any payments you make to your spouse in the settlement and include that in the negotiations.
How you plan now can make a big difference to your wallet down the road.
Carol is a CPA specializing in equine based businesses and serves clients nationwide. She serves as a frequent contributor to several equine periodicals and websites. The link to her website is www.blueribbonaccounting.com
Related posts:
When an asset owned by a spouse is transferred as a result of divorce, there are no immediate tax consequences to either spouse. The one transferring the title to the other spouse does not recognize any gain, even if the home may have appreciated in value since it was purchased.
Likewise, the spouse receiving the home does not recognize any income either. However, the spouse who obtains title to the home steps into the shoes of the other person when it comes to basis (generally the amount of your investment in a property for tax purposes). In effect, the spouse who winds up with the home also winds up with a potential tax bill.
When the spouse that has received title to the house later sells the house, the gain on the sale (prior to exclusions) will be calculated using the original basis of the house, not including any payments that you made to your spouse as part of obtaining title. That can mean a hefty tax bill for you.
For example, Mary and John Smith buy a farm during their marriage for $600,000. At the time of divorce, the fair market value of the house is $800,000. Mary pays John $200,000 to obtain sole ownership of the property. Years later, she sells the property for $950,000. She has assumed that she will owe taxes (subject to other tax exclusions) on $150K ($950K less $600K original basis less $200K that she paid to John). Wrong! The $200K that she paid to John is not included in the tax basis of the property so she will owe taxes on $350K.
The “payment” does not just include money that you pay to your spouse. If you agree to receive the farm in the settlement, and in exchange your spouse will be allowed to maintain ownership of $200K in a joint bank account, that would treated by the IRS as a payment by you to your spouse. There are other similar situations that would be treated as a payment by you, subsequent to a divorce, that would not be included in the basis of the property for purposes of calculating a gain.
What does that mean to you? Your tax professional or attorney needs to make an educated guess on what your future tax liability would be on any payments you make to your spouse in the settlement and include that in the negotiations.
How you plan now can make a big difference to your wallet down the road.
Carol is a CPA specializing in equine based businesses and serves clients nationwide. She serves as a frequent contributor to several equine periodicals and websites. The link to her website is www.blueribbonaccounting.com
Related posts:
TAHC: RT @AQHA: Be careful horseback riding in the heat; heed a veterinarian’s advice on keeping horses safe and comfortable. http://t.co/lo5hkO7m
TAHC: RT @AQHA: Be careful horseback riding in the heat; heed a veterinarian’s advice on keeping horses safe and comfortable. http://t.co/lo5hkO7m: TAHC: RT @AQHA: Be careful horseback riding in the heat; heed a veterinarian’s advice on keeping horses safe and comfortable. http://t.co/lo5hkO7m
TAHC: RT @Texas4H: August 15th! This is a magic date that enrollment starts for the 2012-2013 4-H year! Be a star and be one of... http://t. ...
TAHC: RT @Texas4H: August 15th! This is a magic date that enrollment starts for the 2012-2013 4-H year! Be a star and be one of... http://t. ...: TAHC: RT @Texas4H: August 15th! This is a magic date that enrollment starts for the 2012-2013 4-H year! Be a star and be one of... http://t. ...
Equine Rabies Refreseher
Equine Rabies Refreseher: Despite the fact that equine rabies is invariably fatal once contracted, it's a preventable disease if proper steps are taken. Proper vaccination and an owner's understanding of the disease can help keep horses and humans healthy....
Study Finds Link Between ERAV and Horse Age
Study Finds Link Between ERAV and Horse Age: Age appears to be a significant factor in the prevalence of equine rhinitis virus A and B (ERAV and ERBV) in several regions of the United States, according to a recent study results....
Alternative Fiber Sources for Horses
Alternative Fiber Sources for Horses: Hay cubes, complete feeds, and forage byproducts can help horse owners stretch their hay supplies as fall and winter approach if traditional forage becomes scarce....
USAET Supports AAEP Foundation Laminitis Research Project
USAET Supports AAEP Foundation Laminitis Research Project: The American Association of Equine Practitioners (AAEP) Foundation recently received a $10,000 grant from the USA Equestrian Trust (USAET) to support The Laminitis Research Project.
...
...
Plan Ahead to Reseed Pastures Best Results
Plan Ahead to Reseed Pastures Best Results: The ideal time to reseed depends on the type of forage a producer selects. Producers planting alfalfa should do so as soon as possible. Those planting cool-season perennial grasses should do so between the end of August and the middle of September....
Cardiorespiratory Causes of Poor Equine Performance
The veterinarians at BVEH include some of the top experts in evaluation of performance problems related to orthopedic and non-orthopedic issues like heart and lung problems. We utilize many tools not available in most veterinary clinics in the country.
Cardiorespiratory Causes of Poor Equine Performance: In order for a horse to reach his athletic potential, his cardiorespiratory system must function properly. Understanding what in these areas can cause decreased performance can help owners reduce the risk of their horses developing problems....
Cardiorespiratory Causes of Poor Equine Performance: In order for a horse to reach his athletic potential, his cardiorespiratory system must function properly. Understanding what in these areas can cause decreased performance can help owners reduce the risk of their horses developing problems....
AAEP Helps Continue Operation Gelding Program
AAEP Helps Continue Operation Gelding Program: Thanks to a generous donation from the American Association of Equine Practitioners Foundation (AAEP), the Unwanted Horse Coalition (UHC) is able to continue its Operation Gelding program.
...
...
Colic Prevalence in Horses Hospitalized for Ocular Disease
Colic Prevalence in Horses Hospitalized for Ocular Disease: Researchers found that patients with ocular disease had a higher incidence of colic than some other hospitalized equids. Additionally, they identified age and length of hospital stay as risk factors for colic development....
Tuesday, August 7, 2012
Can MDs and DVMs bridge the cultural divide?
Can MDs and DVMs bridge the cultural divide?: Physician champions concept of 'zoobiquity'
The big sleep: How do you anesthetize a hippopotamus?
The big sleep: How do you anesthetize a hippopotamus?:
Source:
It may rank fairly low in most lists of pressing problems to be solved but an increasing number of zoos and wildlife collections as well as gamekeepers nevertheless need to come up with an answer: How do you anesthetize a hippopotamus? Difficulties are posed not only by the undesirability of approaching waking animals but also by hippos' unique skin morphology and by the animals' sensitivity to standard anesthetic methods.
A new procedure is now described by the group of Chris Walzer at the Research Institute of Wildlife Ecology of the University of Veterinary Medicine, Vienna and published in the current issue of the Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association.
All zoo animals -- and sometimes also wild animals -- occasionally need veterinary treatment and anesthesia is clearly required in many cases. For most animals the procedures are well established but for a variety of reasons it has proven difficult to anaesthetize hippopotamuses.
The thick skin and the dense subcutaneous tissue make it difficult to introduce sufficient amounts of anesthetics and opioid-based anesthetics often cause breathing irregularities and occasionally even death. In addition, the level of anesthesia is only rarely sufficient to enable surgery to be undertaken: few vets wish to be around when a drugged hippopotamus starts to wake up.
Read more ...
Source:
It may rank fairly low in most lists of pressing problems to be solved but an increasing number of zoos and wildlife collections as well as gamekeepers nevertheless need to come up with an answer: How do you anesthetize a hippopotamus? Difficulties are posed not only by the undesirability of approaching waking animals but also by hippos' unique skin morphology and by the animals' sensitivity to standard anesthetic methods. A new procedure is now described by the group of Chris Walzer at the Research Institute of Wildlife Ecology of the University of Veterinary Medicine, Vienna and published in the current issue of the Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association.
All zoo animals -- and sometimes also wild animals -- occasionally need veterinary treatment and anesthesia is clearly required in many cases. For most animals the procedures are well established but for a variety of reasons it has proven difficult to anaesthetize hippopotamuses.
The thick skin and the dense subcutaneous tissue make it difficult to introduce sufficient amounts of anesthetics and opioid-based anesthetics often cause breathing irregularities and occasionally even death. In addition, the level of anesthesia is only rarely sufficient to enable surgery to be undertaken: few vets wish to be around when a drugged hippopotamus starts to wake up.
Read more ...
RCI Considers 'One Strike' for Egregious Drug Violations
RCI Considers 'One Strike' for Egregious Drug Violations: The RCI board of directors has voted to direct its committees to develop a "one strike, you're out" proposal for licensees found responsible for putting substances in racehorses that might endanger the animals....
Researchers Seeking Horse Owner Help in Laminitis Study
Researchers Seeking Horse Owner Help in Laminitis Study: The research team is asking for horse owners' help in identifying cases acute laminitis cases that could be submitted and included in the study.
...
...
Diagnosing and Managing Tetanus and Botulism in Horses
Diagnosing and Managing Tetanus and Botulism in Horses: Both tetanus and botulism can be fatal for horses if contracted, but annual vaccination reduces horses' risks of developing the diseases....
Forage-Only Diet for Performance Horses Evaluated
Forage-Only Diet for Performance Horses Evaluated: Recent study results suggest that forage-only diets could hold benefits for performance horses, including an increased blood pH and better performance indicators....
Understanding Equine Movement Disorders
Understanding Equine Movement Disorders: While researchers have learned much about equine movement disorders over the years, more research is needed to fully understand problems like shivers and stringhalt....
Rotational Grazing: Time it Right for Optimal Pastures
Rotational Grazing: Time it Right for Optimal Pastures: The nuts and bolts of rotational grazing are simple. The easiest approach is to subdivide your grazing areas with portable electric fencing based on the number of horses you have on your acreage....
Vesicular Stomatitis Confirmed in Colorado
Anyone traveling needs to pay attention to changing state regualtions regarding the VS cases in New Mexico and Colorado. None have been reported in Texas yet.
Vesicular Stomatitis Confirmed in Colorado: A Las Animas County, Colo., premises is under quarantine after a horse tested positive for vesicular stomatitis (VS); the horse had not recently traveled and is believed to have been infected by insects.
...
Vesicular Stomatitis Confirmed in Colorado: A Las Animas County, Colo., premises is under quarantine after a horse tested positive for vesicular stomatitis (VS); the horse had not recently traveled and is believed to have been infected by insects.
...
Chondroitin Sulfate, Glucosamine's Effects on Equine OA
Chondroitin Sulfate, Glucosamine's Effects on Equine OA: Researchers learned that treating mild osteoarthritis by supplementing with chondroitin sulphate and glucosamine sulphate has longer lasting effects than previously thought....
Equine Guelph Seeking Horse Owner Input in Colic Survey
Equine Guelph Seeking Horse Owner Input in Colic Survey: Equine Guelph is seeking horse owner participation in a survey about colic management practices, according to a release on the organization's website.
...
...
Exercises to Strengthen Equine Back Muscles, Reduce Pain
Exercises to Strengthen Equine Back Muscles, Reduce Pain: Researchers found that exercising and stretching the multifidus muscles in addition to daily training could help reduce equine back pain....
MRSA In Horses
MRSA In Horses: 
Studies show that MRSA can be passed from horses to humans. “Super bug” infections called MRSA (pronounced “mersa”) have been making headlines as hospitals battle drug-resistant infections among patients.But humans aren’t the only victims. Veterinarians have found the infections to be present in horses, too, and strong evidence supports that it can be transmitted from one to the other.
Studies show that MRSA can be passed from horses to humans. “Super bug” infections called MRSA (pronounced “mersa”) have been making headlines as hospitals battle drug-resistant infections among patients.But humans aren’t the only victims. Veterinarians have found the infections to be present in horses, too, and strong evidence supports that it can be transmitted from one to the other.
Effect of Sea Buckthorn Berries and Pulp in a Liquid Emulsion on Gastric Ulcer Scores and Gastric Juice pH in Horses
This is a recent paper looking for alternative therapies for non-glandular ulcers in horses. For the majority of cases, stomach ulcers refer to the non-glandular half of the horses stomach and is like talking about heart burn in people. Only medications that can alter the pH of the stomach for long periods of time will heal or prevent stomach ulcers. Think about what medications you use to resolve heart burn?
Effect of Sea Buckthorn Berries and Pulp in a Liquid Emulsion on Gastric Ulcer Scores and Gastric Juice pH in Horses:
Effect of Sea Buckthorn Berries and Pulp in a Liquid Emulsion on Gastric Ulcer Scores and Gastric Juice pH in Horses:
Background
Sea buckthorn berries (Hippophae rhamnoides) are rich in vitamin C and E, carotenoids, flavonoids, fatty acids, plant sterols, lignans, and minerals. A feed supplement containing sea buckthorn berries might have efficacy in treatment and prevention of gastric ulcers in horses.
Objectives
To test the efficacy of a commercially available formulation of sea buckthorn berries and pulp (SeaBuck SBT Gastro-Plus) for treatment and prevention of gastric ulcers in stall-confined horses.
Animals
Eight Thoroughbred and Thoroughbred-cross horses (3–10 years of age, 5 geldings and 3 mares, 380–600 kg body weight).
Methods
This study was a 2-period crossover in which all horses received no treatment (untreated controls; n = 8) and treatment (SeaBuckSBT Gastro-Plus, 4 ounces [35.6 g berries and pulp], twice daily; n = 8) mixed with a pelleted complete feed (18% crude fiber; 9% starch; 14% crude protein). Horses were treated for 4 weeks followed by a 1-week (d28–d35) alternating feed-deprivation period to induce or worsen existing ulcers. Gastroscopic examinations were performed on days 0, 28, and 35. Gastric juice pH was measured and gastric ulcer number and severity scores were assigned by a masked investigator.
Results
Mean nonglandular gastric ulcer scores significantly (P < .05) increased in all horses after day 28, as a result of intermittent feed deprivation. Mean nonglandular gastric ulcer number (P = .84) and severity (P = .51) were not significantly different between SBT-treated and untreated control horses. However, mean glandular ulcer number (P = .02) and glandular ulcer severity (P = .02) were significantly lower in the SBT-treated horses compared with the untreated control at week 5.
Conclusions and Clinical Importance
SeaBuck SBT Gastro-Plus liquid fed to horses did not show efficacy in treatment or prevention of naturally occurring nonglandular ulcers in horses; however, glandular ulcer scores were significantly lower in SBT-treated horses after feed deprivation. Thus, SBT might have efficacy in prevention of glandular ulcers in horses housed in stalls and undergoing intermittent feeding.
Opie was stolen 10 years from San Antonio. Saturday his owner will see him for the first time in Cleveland, TX!
Opie was stolen 10 years from San Antonio. Saturday his owner will see him for the first time in Cleveland, TX!:
CLEVELAND, TX, (Stolen Horse International) – Horse theft is a crime that is alive and thriving in the U.S. today with thousands of horses missing each year. With the help of volunteers through Stolen Horse International, aka NetPosse.com, many horses are recovered and there is hope for victims like Michelle Pool, even almost 10 years after her horse was stolen.
Pool filed a report in March of 2003 for Opie, her spotted American Saddlebred horse stolen from her father’s pasture on Highway 181 in San Antonio, Texas. Shortly after she reported her stolen horse to Shelby, NC’s Stolen Horse International, his webpage, http://netposse.com/view_report.asp?reportid=1687, was put on the website at www.netposse.com, and NetPosse Alerts were sent to thousands who sent them to thousands. But Opie was not anywhere in sight. As the years passed, Pool never quit thinking of Opie and wondering what happened to him.
After almost ten years, she does not have to wonder anymore! On Monday, July 30, 2012, a Deanna Bordelon called Stolen Horse International around noon to report an ad she’d seen on Craigslist. With an interest in possibly buying the horse Bordelon had searched the NetPosse.com website first to see if he was one of the horses listed. She was shocked to see him there but excited that she may help reunite him with his owner.
After receiving the wonderful news, the first thing Debi Metcalfe, President and founder of the nonprofit organization, had to do was find Michelle Pool! Pool’s contact information on the website had not been updated in years.
Pool, who now lives in Eureka Springs, Arkansas says this about that surprising phone call: “I was in shock and part of me did not believe it at first because I had been let down so many times. Debi said she was sure it was him.”
Tonight Pool is traveling all night long to Texas to pick up her horse Opie. Nothing is going to stop her now from seeing her boy on Saturday! Not even mechanical failures on the road!
Shortly after she started the trip her trailer developed brake problems which caused the trailer to fishtail. Thank goodness Walmart was nearby. She pulled in, bought parts, fixed the brakes and hit the road again.
“I am nervous, excited and stressed. I can’t wait to see him. I don’t know if he will remember me but we will be able to get to know each other again,” said Pool to Metcalfe from her truck on highway 540 as she was leaving Rogers, Arkansas. “I also hope that I will be able to meet Deanna and thank her for what she has done for me.”
“The shattered dreams I had are being put back piece by piece and glued together all with the help of two AMAZING people … the tipster DeAnna and Debi with Stolen Horse International – NetPosse.com THANK YOU!”
Stolen Horse International would like to thank everyone who played a part in this miracle. “We never give up and we never underestimate the power of one,” says Metcalfe. “This is truly one of the miracles we love to see and I wish I could be there tomorrow to share this moment with two women that feel like old friends already. I will be there in my heart,” Metcalfe concludes.
CLEVELAND, TX, (Stolen Horse International) – Horse theft is a crime that is alive and thriving in the U.S. today with thousands of horses missing each year. With the help of volunteers through Stolen Horse International, aka NetPosse.com, many horses are recovered and there is hope for victims like Michelle Pool, even almost 10 years after her horse was stolen.
Pool filed a report in March of 2003 for Opie, her spotted American Saddlebred horse stolen from her father’s pasture on Highway 181 in San Antonio, Texas. Shortly after she reported her stolen horse to Shelby, NC’s Stolen Horse International, his webpage, http://netposse.com/view_report.asp?reportid=1687, was put on the website at www.netposse.com, and NetPosse Alerts were sent to thousands who sent them to thousands. But Opie was not anywhere in sight. As the years passed, Pool never quit thinking of Opie and wondering what happened to him.
After almost ten years, she does not have to wonder anymore! On Monday, July 30, 2012, a Deanna Bordelon called Stolen Horse International around noon to report an ad she’d seen on Craigslist. With an interest in possibly buying the horse Bordelon had searched the NetPosse.com website first to see if he was one of the horses listed. She was shocked to see him there but excited that she may help reunite him with his owner.
After receiving the wonderful news, the first thing Debi Metcalfe, President and founder of the nonprofit organization, had to do was find Michelle Pool! Pool’s contact information on the website had not been updated in years.
Pool, who now lives in Eureka Springs, Arkansas says this about that surprising phone call: “I was in shock and part of me did not believe it at first because I had been let down so many times. Debi said she was sure it was him.”
Tonight Pool is traveling all night long to Texas to pick up her horse Opie. Nothing is going to stop her now from seeing her boy on Saturday! Not even mechanical failures on the road!
Shortly after she started the trip her trailer developed brake problems which caused the trailer to fishtail. Thank goodness Walmart was nearby. She pulled in, bought parts, fixed the brakes and hit the road again.
“I am nervous, excited and stressed. I can’t wait to see him. I don’t know if he will remember me but we will be able to get to know each other again,” said Pool to Metcalfe from her truck on highway 540 as she was leaving Rogers, Arkansas. “I also hope that I will be able to meet Deanna and thank her for what she has done for me.”
“The shattered dreams I had are being put back piece by piece and glued together all with the help of two AMAZING people … the tipster DeAnna and Debi with Stolen Horse International – NetPosse.com THANK YOU!”
Stolen Horse International would like to thank everyone who played a part in this miracle. “We never give up and we never underestimate the power of one,” says Metcalfe. “This is truly one of the miracles we love to see and I wish I could be there tomorrow to share this moment with two women that feel like old friends already. I will be there in my heart,” Metcalfe concludes.
Paint Horse History-Makers Honored in Inaugural APHA Hall of Fame Class
Paint Horse History-Makers Honored in Inaugural APHA Hall of Fame Class:
FORT WORTH — In celebration of its 50th anniversary, the American Paint Horse Association recently announced its first class of inductees for the APHA Hall of Fame. A total of 50 influential members of the Paint Horse community—25 horses and 25 people—will be honored at the induction ceremony October 5 in Fort Worth, Texas.
Given the Paint Horse breed’s colorful history, naming the first Hall of Fame class required much contemplation. A five-member Hall of Fame Selection Committee was charged with developing induction criteria, reviewing the association’s long list of history-makers, and narrowing the field of candidates to 50 inaugural inductees.
“With APHA currently celebrating its 50-year anniversary, it is more than fitting that recognition be accorded to those colorful individuals—two- and four-legged—who were in it from the very beginning,” Hall of Fame Selection Committee Member Frank Holmes said. “It was with this thought in mind that the inaugural class of APHA Hall of Fame inductees was chosen. Each pioneer person and foundation horse being inducted this year helped in some way to lay the foundation for what has grown from a plot hatched around a North Texas coffee table to a major breed association with tentacles in every corner of the world.”
The first APHA Hall of Fame class includes the following influential horses and horsemen:
Horses
FORT WORTH — In celebration of its 50th anniversary, the American Paint Horse Association recently announced its first class of inductees for the APHA Hall of Fame. A total of 50 influential members of the Paint Horse community—25 horses and 25 people—will be honored at the induction ceremony October 5 in Fort Worth, Texas.Given the Paint Horse breed’s colorful history, naming the first Hall of Fame class required much contemplation. A five-member Hall of Fame Selection Committee was charged with developing induction criteria, reviewing the association’s long list of history-makers, and narrowing the field of candidates to 50 inaugural inductees.
“With APHA currently celebrating its 50-year anniversary, it is more than fitting that recognition be accorded to those colorful individuals—two- and four-legged—who were in it from the very beginning,” Hall of Fame Selection Committee Member Frank Holmes said. “It was with this thought in mind that the inaugural class of APHA Hall of Fame inductees was chosen. Each pioneer person and foundation horse being inducted this year helped in some way to lay the foundation for what has grown from a plot hatched around a North Texas coffee table to a major breed association with tentacles in every corner of the world.”
The first APHA Hall of Fame class includes the following influential horses and horsemen:
Horses
- Adios Amigos #1525 (1962)
- Babette #1050 (1944)
- Calamity Jane #21 (1949)
- Cherokee Maiden #23 (1960)
- Crystal Eye #2022 (1960)
- Delta #2120 (1963)
- Dual Image #555 (1961)
- Hank-A-Chief #14149 (1969)
- Mister J. Bar #1044 (1961)
- Nylon #360 (1961)
- Painted Breeze Bar (1962)
- Painted Joe #50000 (1939)
- Painted Lasan #2300 (1963)
- Painted Robin #800 (1960)
- Powder Charge #4400 (1965)
- Q Ton Eagle #345 (1960)
- Sabru Indio #1200 (1962)
- Skip Hi #8 (1959)
- Skippa Rope #12012 (1968)
- Skippa Streak #3818 (1964)
- Snip Bar #7389 (1966)
- Tinky’s Spook #5165 (1965)
- Uvalde Doll #5065 (1960)
- Wahoo King #31 (1957)
- Yellow Mount #3300 (1964)
- Fred & Marian Adam
- Jo-an (Soso) Barnett
- Ralph & Barbara Brunner
- A.J. “Jack” Campbell
- Bud & Betty Crump
- Alfonso Gonzalez
- Paul Harber
- Bernard “Punk” Hoban
- J.D. Hooter
- Claude Howard
- Junior Hudspeth
- Bill James
- Rebecca Tyler Lockhart
- Dale Lukens
- W.L. “Lowell” Miller
- Buster & Marion Naegle
- Bill Neel
- Junior Robertson
- Ralph & Dorothy Russell
- Jay & Nancy Simons
- Sam Ed & Marge Spence
- L.N. Sykes
- H.J. “Hank” Wiescamp
- Stanley & Jodie Williamson
No Help for Feed Prices From Texas Corn Crop
No Help for Feed Prices From Texas Corn Crop:
By Robert Burns
COLLEGE STATION, (TAMU) – As corn prices surge, the condition of the crop varied widely around the state, according to reports by Texas AgriLife Extension Service personnel.
Where drought conditions ruled, dryland corn generally suffered, according to this week’s reports from AgriLife Extension county agents. But irrigated corn was in trouble as well in some areas, such as the Rolling Plains, as later-planted fields went into their peak water usage stage and well water levels dropped.
In the Panhandle, it was a mixed bag, with some agents reporting the crop to be in fair condition while others said it was stressed. Some dryland fields had already been abandoned.
In North and Central Texas, the reports were more positive, despite triple-digit temperatures and generally dry conditions.
“The corn harvest is starting with yields ranging from 50 to 110 bushels per acre,” said Shane McLellan, AgriLife Extension agent in McLennan County, south of Fort Worth. “The milo harvest is nearly complete with good yields ranging from 3,500 to 6,000 pounds per acre.”
Jared Ripple, AgriLife Extension agent in Williamson County north of Austin, reported most corn there had been harvested and aflatoxin levels were generally low.
Reports from North Texas were similar. Wayne Becker, AgriLife Extension agent in Cooke County, north of Dallas, said all but a few fields had been harvested. The corn harvest there came early thanks to a timely rain that helped mature the crop, followed by hot weather that promoted a quick dry down.
“If there’s any corn left by today (Aug. 7), I’d be really surprised,” Becker said. “We only grow about 2,000 acres of corn, and our average yield is probably below 100 bushels (per acre.) We’re averaging around the 100-bushel level, and aflatoxin which is usually a concern in our area, has been relatively low. All in all, we have to be pretty happy with our corn yields, and our grain sorghum yields are certainly running above average.”
More information on the current Texas drought and wildfire alerts can be found on the AgriLife Extension Agricultural Drought Task Force website at http://agrilife.tamu.edu/drought/ .
Corn harvest reports a mixed bag
By Robert Burns
COLLEGE STATION, (TAMU) – As corn prices surge, the condition of the crop varied widely around the state, according to reports by Texas AgriLife Extension Service personnel.Where drought conditions ruled, dryland corn generally suffered, according to this week’s reports from AgriLife Extension county agents. But irrigated corn was in trouble as well in some areas, such as the Rolling Plains, as later-planted fields went into their peak water usage stage and well water levels dropped.
In the Panhandle, it was a mixed bag, with some agents reporting the crop to be in fair condition while others said it was stressed. Some dryland fields had already been abandoned.
In North and Central Texas, the reports were more positive, despite triple-digit temperatures and generally dry conditions.
“The corn harvest is starting with yields ranging from 50 to 110 bushels per acre,” said Shane McLellan, AgriLife Extension agent in McLennan County, south of Fort Worth. “The milo harvest is nearly complete with good yields ranging from 3,500 to 6,000 pounds per acre.”
Jared Ripple, AgriLife Extension agent in Williamson County north of Austin, reported most corn there had been harvested and aflatoxin levels were generally low.
Reports from North Texas were similar. Wayne Becker, AgriLife Extension agent in Cooke County, north of Dallas, said all but a few fields had been harvested. The corn harvest there came early thanks to a timely rain that helped mature the crop, followed by hot weather that promoted a quick dry down.
“If there’s any corn left by today (Aug. 7), I’d be really surprised,” Becker said. “We only grow about 2,000 acres of corn, and our average yield is probably below 100 bushels (per acre.) We’re averaging around the 100-bushel level, and aflatoxin which is usually a concern in our area, has been relatively low. All in all, we have to be pretty happy with our corn yields, and our grain sorghum yields are certainly running above average.”
More information on the current Texas drought and wildfire alerts can be found on the AgriLife Extension Agricultural Drought Task Force website at http://agrilife.tamu.edu/drought/ .
Return to use and performance following exploratory celiotomy for colic in horses: 195 cases (2003–2010)
This is a just released publication by Dr. Weston Davis - the newest face at BVEH! For those who have not been lucky enough to meet Weston yet, we think he is fantastic and will post more about him and all our new additions very soon.
Return to use and performance following exploratory celiotomy for colic in horses: 195 cases (2003–2010):
Return to use and performance following exploratory celiotomy for colic in horses: 195 cases (2003–2010):
Summary
Reasons for performing study: There are few objective data on return to use and performance in horses following colic surgery.
Objective: To investigate return to functional use of horses following colic surgery and factors associated with a negative outcome.
Methods: The North Carolina State University Equine Colic Database was reviewed for horses that underwent exploratory celiotomy for colic (2003–2010). Horses were excluded from the study if they survived <6 months, had no intended use preoperatively, or if further data were not available at attempted follow-up. Information retrieved included history, background, use, and selected pre-, intra-, and post operative factors. Telephone interviews were used to obtain follow-up data. Logistic regression was used to investigate associations between clinical data and outcome, reported as odds ratios with a 95% confidence interval and corresponding P value.
Results: Of patients surviving to 6 months, 133/195 (68%) were performing their intended use and 85/156 (54%) were at or above preoperative performance. At one year, 145/190 (76%) horses were performing their intended use and 101/153 (66%) were at or above preoperative performance. Animals were significantly less likely to return to use/performance if they had a previous celiotomy, stall rest for an orthopaedic condition, a nonstrangulating lesion type, incisional hernia, diarrhoea or laminitis.
Conclusions: The overall prognosis for return to use and performance following colic surgery is fair to good. Multiple pre- and post operative factors may affect the likelihood of return to use and performance.
Potential relevance: Targeted owner education regarding preoperative lameness, post operative rehabilitation and treatment for complications, such as incisional hernioplasty, may help inform owners about their horse's potential for return to use and performance following colic surgery.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)