Atypical Myopathy:
Atypical Myopathy (AM) is a seasonal condition which occurs in horses at pasture. Ingestion of plant material containing the toxin hypoglycin A (HGA) results in non-exertional rhabdomyolysis. In Europe, seeds and seedlings from Acer pseudoplatanus (Sycamore) are the primary source of HGA. It is therefore no surprise that disease incidence peaks in the Autumn and Spring, resulting from ingestion of seeds and seedlings. Relatively more cases occur in Autumn and are attributed to ingestion of samaras. Samaras are winged fruits containing Acer seeds. During years when there are a high number of cases in Autumn, cases tend to be seen the following spring as seeds germinate and progress into seedlings.
International Collating Centre: Summary Report:
1 Jan to 31 Mar 2023
This article provides a summary of international disease outbreaks during the first quarter of 2023. It should also be noted that additional summary reports were kindly received that included further information on disease occurrence for that country, but which had not been reported in previous real-time ICC reports. This additional information is identified by *or # in the tables and text, where relevant, throughout this report. National and international equine disease outbreaks are reported on a daily basis by the ICC, through email alerts. Please contact equinesurveillance@gmail.com to receive these. There is also a website available that provides an interactive interface of these infectious disease reports and can be used to view current outbreak reports: https://equinesurveillance.org/iccview/
The Hold Box: Diaries of a Vet #1: Marcus Swail
Spike is back in his Hold Box but this time he is hearing from some of the best vets in the business. First up is Irish Team Vet and IEVA President Marcus Swail, as he talks through how his veterinary journey began, what it takes to be a good vet and the future of horse sport.
IEVA Conference 2023: Save the Date
Join us for IEVA23 at the Slieve Russell Hotel in Co. Cavan on 24 & 25 November 2023.
Spectacular location. Spectacular scientific programme.
Something for everyone in equine practice.
Find all the answers at IEVA23!
IHRB Rule Change – Flu Vaccinations
The IHRB issued a communication to licensed trainers on 17/2/23 regarding a rule change relating to flu vaccinations. Details of the communication are as follows:
Please note the rule change below effective from March 1. All entries on this date will fall under the rule change and will require you to have vaccinations in order and approved on the Weatherby’s ePassport app by 5pm the day of entries.
The IHRB must be satisfied that the certification of vaccination is in compliance with this Rule 91 before a Horse may enter Racecourse Property or run in a Race and shall be entitled to request evidence of same. The vaccination certification must have been approved by the IHRB by 5pm on the day of entry for a race or in the case of an early closing race on the day of final forfeit or the supplementary entry stage.
NB. Point To Point Vaccination Regulation: This Rule change relates to horses entered to run on the Racecourse. Flu-vaccinations for horses running in Point to Points must be in approved on the Weatherby’s ePassport App at the time specified for the closing of entries.
Equestrian Mental Health Week
A mental health campaign aimed at raising awareness surrounding mental health issues among equestrians was launched in January 2023. The campaign, titled “How Are Ya” which is the first of its kind in the equestrian community, aims to break the stigma surrounding mental health by getting people to reach out to one person a week throughout January and asking a simple question, How Are Ya?
The HAY Equestrian Mental Health Campaign is being led by Shane Rooney in Partnership with The Grassroots Gazette and is backed by leading governing bodies, organisations, associations and businesses supporting The HAY Campaign including Horse Sport Ireland, Horse Racing Ireland (Equuip), Showjumping Ireland, Eventing Ireland, Dressage Ireland, The Restricted Trainers Association, The Irish Stable Staff Association, Irish Pony Society, British Horse Society Ireland, The Army Equitation School, and The Irish Field.
International Collating Centre: Q4 2022 Summary Report
The International Collating Centre has recently published a summary report of international disease outbreaks during the fourth quarter of 2022.
DAERA NI: Equine Influenza Online CPD Event
The Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs NI, supported by the Northern Ireland Veterinary Association is hosting an online CPD event with equine epidemiologist Dr. Richard Newton BVSc MSc PhD FRCVS of Equine Infectious Disease Surveillance (EIDS) on the value and importance of equine disease surveillance.
The event takes place online on Wednesday 1st February 2023 at 8.00pm. Webex dial-in details to follow in the week prior to the event.
The Donkey Sanctuary Ireland: A Practical Reference Guide
The Donkey Sanctuary Ireland have put together a practical health and welfare reference guide to help vets, nurses, and attending welfare / agricultural colleagues to manage donkeys and their care effectively. The guide homes in on the areas that are differential to other equines; in that respect it is useful for non-donkey specialists at all levels. The Donkey Academy is also a fantastic resource offering free training resources and is being added to all the time.
IEVA Clinical Case Award 2022: Winner Announced
Kindly Sponsored by IMV Imaging | Euro 2000 Prize Fund
Following the success of the 2021 competition, the IEVA Clinical Cases Award returned for 2022. Four finalists were selected to present a 15 minute Equine Case Report on Saturday 12th Nov at Lyrath Estate, Kilkenny as part of the 2022 IEVA Conference, with the winner being selected by a jury of the keynote speakers from the conference.
Huge Congratulations to Michael Duggan who was chosen as the winner of the 2022 IMV Imaging Bursary Prize and well done to all of the finalists.
IEVA Conference 2022: Thank You!
The 2022 IEVA Conference took place from 10-12 November at the Lyrath Estate Kilkenny. Following a very successful and enjoyable 3 days, we would like to say a huge thank you to all our sponsors, exhibitors, speakers and delegates. We would particularly like to thank our title sponsors for IEVA22 Boehringer Ingelheim for their support, and to BEVA President David Rendle for joining us at the conference.
Outgoing IEVA President Rosalinda Devereux interviewed on the Vetspace Ireland podcast
The Vet Space Ireland podcast, created and hosted by Michelle Maguire and Hazell Mullins discussed positivity, learning and current affairs in the veterinary world. Listen to Michelle and Hazell’s interview with the IEVA’s Outgoing President Rosalinda Devereux.
TRI Equestrian: 10% discount for IEVA Members
We are delighted that TRI Equestrian are offering IEVA members a 10% discount for purchases instore and over the phone. Discount Code: CIRI09
TRI Equestrian was set up on the Curragh, in the heart of horse country in Co. Kildare, in 1984. TRI Equestrian have two retail outlets, their flagship store on the Curragh, beside the race track, and their Northern store at the Meadows show grounds near Lurgan. The TRI Equestrian team has years of practical experience in dealing with horse care and training in the various disciplines. They are always happy to share their experience and are on hand to recommend products that will enhance your day to day riding and outdoor activities.
To qualify for TRI Equestrian’s 10% discount you must have a current Irish Equine Veterinary Association membership for 2022/2023.
Anthelmintic resistance in equine nematodes: Current status and emerging trends
Anthelmintic resistance is reported in equine nematodes with increasing frequency in recent years, and no new anthelmintic classes have been introduced during the past 40 years. This manuscript reviews published literature describing anthelmintic resistance in cyathostomins, Parascaris spp., and Oxyuris equi with special emphasis on larvicidal efficacy against encysted cyathostomin larvae and strongylid egg reappearance periods (ERP).
Parasitism: IEC Update – 24/10/22
The Irish Equine Centre have highlighted a marked increase in parasitism, particularly large and small Strongyles, especially in the weanling age group, as a result of weather conditions in Summer and Autumn.
Equieire: 10% online discount for IEVA Members
We are delighted that Equieire are offering IEVA members a 10% online discount*.
Equieire is an Irish brand that was established in 2021 with a vision to create a line of sustainable equestrian clothing optimized for the needs of the modern rider – function, elegance, versatility, and performance. All Equieire products are manufactured with sustainability and consideration for the environment in mind. The Equieire collection creates stylish but earth-friendly equestrian wear.
To qualify for Equieire’s 10% online discount*, you must have a current, qualifying Irish Equine Veterinary Association membership for 2022/2023.
* Discount is only available through Equieire’s online store www.equieire.com.
*Discount Code: IEVA2022
Sycamore Poisoning: IEC Update – 10/10/22
The Irish Equine Centre has shared the following alert regarding sycamore poisoning:
There seems to be a significant seed crop on the sycamore trees this year and as far as we are aware there have been two cases recorded over the past few days. So if people have had cases before they need to be particularly careful and where the sycamore trees have a significant seed crop people need to be careful about exposure over the next few weeks. Wet and windy weather will bring down the seeds quicker. For further information please contact the Irish Equine Centre at: iec@irishequinecentre.ie
Equine Influenza (EI) Vaccine Shortages: IHRB Update
The IHRB would like to clarify, following monitoring and careful consideration over the last few weeks of the evolving situation in relation to this, that there will be no change to the EI vaccination schedules or planned changes due to take place in 2023 in order for horses to remain compliant with the Rules of Racing In Ireland.
Equine Influenze Vaccine Schedule – FEI Temporary Changes – 09/09/22
At its meeting on 8 September, the FEI Board approved a temporary exemption to the FEI Veterinary Regulations in response to the shortage of vaccines in Europe created by supply issues facing Boehringer Ingelheim, a key producer of equine influenza vaccinations.
In the Emergency Board resolution, the FEI decided to extend the booster intervals from six to 12 months in combination with increased disease surveillance and a higher level of general biosecurity.
IEVA @VetCon: 29th April
The IEVA were in attendance at the VetCon conference which took place in Fota Island on the 28 & 29 April. Thank you to the organisers for a great line up of speakers. It was great to meet so many of our colleagues and members on the day.
Federation of European Equine Veterinary Associations (FEEVA) Board meeting in Brussels: Updated 7 March 2022
Last week, the FEEVA board had a physical meeting in Brussels after a long COVID break. One of the important topics that were discussed was the horrible war activities in Ukraine. The board decided to engage in horse health and welfare in the area, focusing not only on the horses in Ukraine but also on the horses transported across the borders. The board will keep FEEVA members informed of the actions and progress. To provide practical support, FVE, WVA, and FECAVA have developed a web portal to coordinate aid by veterinarians to help Ukrainian veterinarians, their families, and animals.
The portal puts together information on:
- Pet travel rules and support to refugees fleeing with their animals;
- Places to stay for Ukrainian veterinarians and their animals by country;
- Diploma recognition of Ukrainian veterinarians;
- Support initiatives for Ukrainian veterinary students;
- Other veterinary support or money donations initiatives.
Please feel free to share this portal widely: http://vetsforukraine.com
Rules of Racing – New Equine Influenza Vaccination Intervals
The IHRB have sent to correspondence to all licensed trainers and point to point handlers regarding changes to vaccination intervals under Rule 91 of the Rules of Racing and Irish National Hunt Steeplechase Rules. The IHRB are extending this communication to Veterinary Surgeons as they recognize that you are at the forefront of appropriate vaccination administration.
As you may well be aware, Rule 91 which concerns the time intervals for Equine Influenza vaccination came into effect in Ireland and Great Britain on 1st January 2022. This change was implemented in a bid to minimize the recognized waning in immunity between vaccinations.
Invitation to participate in PPID Study
Hypertrichosis is one of the most common clinical signs of pituitary pars intermedia dysfunction (PPID), also known as Equine Cushing’s disease, a condition that affects one in five horses over the age of 15. Researchers at University College Dublin in collaboration with researchers at the University of Kentucky’s Gluck Equine Research Centre are conducting a study to investigate the effects of blue light treatment in PPID horses over a 12-month period.
The team are recruiting interest from owners of PPID horses/ponies that meet a specific set of criteria to be part of this important study. If you own or manage a horse or pony diagnosed with PPID, and which displays hypertrichosis, please complete the following questionnaire. Both medicated (e.g. Pergolide) and unmedicated horses/ponies are suitable. Your participation in this study will help us to better understand PPID as a disorder of older horses, and in particular its impact on coat and coat condition.
Irish Equine Veterinary Association Meet with French Galop:
A delegation from the IEVA travelled to Paris this past weekend to meet with the French veterinary and epidemiology group to discuss the RESPE equine disease alert system. Photographed from left to right – Coralie Lupo (RESPE), Loic Malivet (RESPE), Rosalinda Devereaux (IEVA), Guillaume Fortier (RESPE – on screen – joined by zoom), Siobhan McAuliffe (IEVA) and Ann Courouce (RESPE).
This trip was kindly sponsored by Duggans Veterinary Supplies.
UCD Study in to Equine Metabolic Syndrome in Connemara Ponies: Free Insulin Tests
As part of a study into Equine Metabolic Syndrome in Connemara Ponies, researchers in UCD are able to offer insulin tests to up to 500 eligible ponies. The tests will be either basal insulin or an oral sugar test, depending on the laminitis history and phenotype of each individual pony. All tests will be conducted free of charge by a UCD vet. The eligibility criteria are: registered Connemara pony, located in Ireland, between 5 and 10 years old with no history of colic or gastric ulcers requiring treatment. If you have clients who may be interested in availing of this test for their pony(ies), they can be directed to this form: https://forms.gle/kRH5N1Vawzwxs2VFA to register an interest. Veterinary queries regarding the study can be sent to vivienne.duggan@ucd.ie or ahmed.alansari@ucdconnect.ie
Minister McConalogue Announces Equine Census 2021
The Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine, Charlie McConalogue T.D. has announced that his Department will undertake the first annual equine census at end-November 2021. Any person who keeps any equines in the State will be required to submit a completed census return within a specified timeline.
European Network for Optimization of Veterinary Antimicrobial Treatment: Survey
ENOVAT (European Network for Optimization of Veterinary Antimicrobial Treatment) has launched a survey on guidelines for the responsible use of antibiotics in veterinary practice. Your feedback is very valuable and ENOVAT hope to get as many responses as possible. Please find below the link to the survey. Many thanks for your collaboration.
Panorama Investigative programme:
The members of the IEVA were gravely concerned by the images shown in the recent Panorama investigative programme into slaughter of horses at an abattoir in the United Kingdom.
The working practices at this abattoir were appalling and should be formally investigated by the relevant authorities in regard to animal welfare and food standards. Michael Sheahan, Director of Veterinary Operations, DAFM confirmed that these practices do not occur in Irish abattoirs. While it is legal to transport horses to the UK for slaughter for human consumption, it is paramount that they are fit to travel and are presented with the correct passports ensuring food safety for consumers.
It is desirable that all horses lead a full life free from injury and stress, but inevitably there are a few that are unsuitable for re-homing once their career is finished. Euthanasia carried out humanely is a valid option. Some horses are excluded from the food chain due to the administration of certain medicines. Furthermore horse owners who wish that their horses never end up in abattoirs can proactively sign their passports out of the food chain.
FVE / FEEVA joint position on ‘Best practice Protocol for Euthanasia of horses’:
When horses need to be euthanised there are several matters to consider. A method of euthanasia is only acceptable when its effect is guaranteed. It must cause loss of consciousness before cardiac or respiratory arrest. As well, human safety during euthanasia should be addressed because of the potential hazards and unpredictability of the procedure, and proper disposal of the carcass after euthanasia should be arranged and considered before selecting the method of euthanasia. Based on those matters, FVE and FEEVA built a joint technical document for the “Best practice Protocol for Euthanasia of horses”. The joint position was adopted by the FVE and the UEVP on 11 June 2021.
Contagious Equine Metritis (CEM) – Update:
DEFRA in the UK have announced that on the 9th of June 2021 a stallion at an equine premise in West Devon tested positive for Contagious Equine Metritis (CEM). Three mares which had close contact with the infected horse at the same premises are currently under investigation. The source of infection is believed to be contact with a stable mate abroad, before arriving in the UK.
Further information is available from the International Collating Centre (ICC). The affected horse a three year old Arab stallion, was imported to the UK in October 2020 from Europe and has had no clinical signs of infection. The diagnosis was made following targeted investigative testing after it came to light that another linked stallion on a premises in the Netherlands had tested positive for CEM on routine testing. The initial positive diagnosis was made by Axiom Veterinary Laboratories by PCR on penile swabs and this was confirmed on further samples tested at the Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA) reference laboratory at Penrith by PCR on 8 June 2021; bacterial culture is pending at both laboratories.
The National Disease Control Centre of DAFM has indicated that there are no forward or backward tracing links to Ireland at this stage. DAFM will continue to monitor the situation closely. Compliance with the Code of Practice in relation to CEM prevention is particularly important at this time.
The ICC also reported two outbreaks of CEM in Icelandic horses in Germany this month, both confirmed by Labor Dr Bose GmbH.
Irish Veterinary Benevolent Fund Helpline
As of June 1st 2021, a dedicated free phone number – 1800 145145 – is available for vets and vet nurses to ring 24/7 if they are mentally or emotionally distressed and need immediate help.
This number will be answered by a call centre in the UK on behalf of Vetlife and then diverted to volunteer vets and vet nurses who are trained to help their colleagues.
Vetlife is also backed up by a health support service called March on Stress that will provide ongoing services as required. This service is being sponsored and paid for by the Irish Veterinary Benevolent Fund and the Veterinary Council of Ireland.
The IEVA Welcomes New Legislation To Encourage Proper Use Of Worm Treatments And Prevention In Horses
The concerns about equine anthelmintics (wormers) not being available by over-the-counter sales from January 2022 in line with the new EU Regulations was highlighted in last weeks Irish Field in an article by Mark Costello.
Equine Herpesvirus Neurological Disease: Outbreak Update – 6th April 2021
Ann Cullinane MVB PhD
Equine herpesviruses are endemic in horse populations worldwide and equine herpesvirus 1 (EHV1) respiratory disease and abortion are diagnosed each year in Ireland. EHV1 neurological disease is less common but when it occurs, often results in fatalities. Vaccination is a useful aid in the control of abortion and respiratory disease but no vaccine has an efficacy claim against the neurological form of the disease.
On the 20th of February the FEI were notified of a suspected outbreak of EHV1 neurological disease in showjumpers at the CES Valencia Spring Tour in Spain and reacted promptly to cancel the rest of the event.
Department of Agriculture, Food & the Marine – Webinar Series
EU Regulations on Veterinary Medicinal Products, 2019/6, and the manufacture, placing on the market and use of Medicated Feed, 2019/4, come into effect in January 2022. Both Regulations will bring significant changes for veterinary practitioners. DAFM hosted two free webinars in March and April on the regulations:
Wednesday 31st March:
The Future of Prescribing – EU Regulations and What They Mean for You
Wednesday 7th April:
Veterinary Medicines Landscape post-2022 – EU Regulations and What They Mean for You
Webinar presentations now available to download on the DAFM website.