Ontario Animal Health Network (OAHN)
Equine Quarterly Veterinary Report

BITS ‘N SNIPS

During our network discussion we touched on insulin dysregulation and the need for clarification around testing.

The Equine Endocrinology Group (Equine Endocrinology Group) has some wonderful resources including their 2024 EEG recommendations on diagnosis and management of equine metabolic syndrome (EMS) including assessment of insulin status. Complete with pictures, definitions, flow charts and diagnostic approaches, these guidelines are invaluable to the equine practitioner managing EMS/hyperinsulinemic horses.  Here is the link:

Final Oct. 2024 EEG EMS ID Recommendations

Further to our discussion on “insulin dysregulation”, here is a link to an article penned by Dr. Elenor Kellon of the Equine Cushing’s and Insulin Resistance Group Inc. (Equine Cushings & Insulin Resistance Group | ECIR Group, Inc.). The article “Insulin resistance versus dysregulation-a distinction without a difference” was published in the Equine Veterinary Education journal 2025;37:210-215 and debates the inappropriate use of the term “insulin dysregulation” in the definition of equine metabolic syndrome. Kellon argues that the term “hyperinsulinemia” should be used instead.  Read the article at this link:

Insulin resistance versus dysregulation—a distinction without a difference – Kellon – 2025 – Equine Veterinary Education – Wiley Online Library

Network Member Reports

Southwestern Region (Melissa McKee)	Q3 saw a significant increase in endocrinopathic laminitis cases. Horses seem to be suffering increasingly from insulin dysregulation and the associated health risks. In the racehorses, there were several horses that had unusually severe episodes of epistaxis in both the Quarter Horse and Standardbred population. These are horses that had not previously had issues, but now were bleeding through Lasix. In the Western performance horse population, muscle myopathies seem to be an increasing phenomenon, whether they are just being more recognized or we continue to breed towards this trait. Gastrointestinal diseases were not unusually increased or decreased and we did not have a significant number of colitis cases this fall. The prolonged summer season has resulted in a persistence of asthma and allergy-type symptoms in horses that are susceptible.
Southern Ontario (Jenna Donaldson)	Our internist evaluated some severe equine asthma cases  which were harder to manage than usual. We saw the typical colic caseload, some sick yearlings and typical types of injuries causing lameness. We also had a case of leptospirosis uveitis that responded well to intravitreal gentamicin.
Ontario Veterinary College (Memo Arroyo)	We had one of the highest years for Potomac Horses Fever case admissions this year. We also saw a number of colics, many colitis cases of unknown origin as well as several fevers of unknown origin. . We also had a number of horses admitted with severe cellulitis, some with antimicrobial resistant Staphylococcus and Streptococcus sp. which were hard to treat. A couple of non-responders had to be euthanized.
AHL Pathology (Emily Ratsep)	8 year old TB mare died and was diagnosed with splenic rupture and hemoabdomen on postmortem examination. The exact cause of this is uncertain. The noted defect in the splenic capsule is presumed to be the most likely cause, although given the degree of tissue autolysis and fragility it cannot be determined with certainty if this rupture occurred antemortem or postmortem. Splenic rupture is uncommonly reported in horses and is most often associated with trauma (in particular to the left abdominal wall), neoplasia, mesenteric injury, or parturition. There is no histologic evidence of neoplasia or other splenic disease which could have contributed to rupture. Unfortunately, a significant number of cases of splenic injury, and hemoabdomen in horses more generally, remain idiopathic despite investigation. 24 yo mare was evaluated for colic subsequent to difficulty eating and dropping feed. On examination she had a droopy eyelid, a droopy right ear, deviation of the muzzle , head tilt to the right, decreased tongue tone and a swollen right guttural pouch area.. She was euthanized and diagnosed with temporohyoid osteoarthropathy with compression of the glossopharyngeal nerve. The histologic changes occurring within the right stylohyoid bone further support the gross suspicion of chronic temporohyoid osteoarthropathy. All the bone proliferation has modelled to dense mature lamellar osteoid, confirming this lesion had likely been progressing for months prior to death. The presence of axonal degeneration within the glossopharyngeal nerve collected from the region of temporohyoid osteoarthropathy further supports the grossly suspected compressive lesion. There is no evidence of an infectious etiology for the neurologic signs observed. 1 month old QH colt found lying down in a field, unable to stand up without assistance, and presenting a fever of 40 degrees. Referring vet administered IV fluids and sent for further evaluation. On admission, the foal was dead in the trailer. According to the owner, one month ago another foal died at the farm with same clinical presentation. The foal was diagnosed at postmortem examination with multifocal hepatic necrosis due to Clostridium piliforme (Tyzzer’s disease). The presence of silver stain-positive intracellular filamentous bacteria along the margins of hepatic necrosis is characteristic of infection with Clostridium piliforme (Tyzzer disease) (1). While the pathogenesis of C. piliforme has not been completely elucidated, it is believed to occur secondary to ingestion of environmental spores that are spread from the feces of carrier animals. C. piliforme is often fatal and most commonly affects foals within the first 45 days of life, but has been reported to affect individuals up to 90 days of age. It has also been described to occur within other wildlife and domestic species such as cats, dogs, cattle, and rabbits, and can cause hepatic, enteric, and myocardial lesions (1, 2). Neurologic signs can occur in affected foals, likely due to hepatic encephalopathy (1). In this case, ancillary testing was negative for Eastern equine encephalitis virus, Equid herpesvirus 1 (neuropathogenic and non-neuropathogenic), rabies, and West Nile virus. There is no other cause for the described neurologic signs identified. As such, the most likely cause of the neurologic signs described is hepatic encephalopathy due to the significant amount of hepatic necrosis present. 25 yo pony gelding was diagnosed with habronemiasis on histological examination of a biopsy of the medial canthus. Parasites consistent with Habronema sp. are histologically visible. Severe eosinophilic dermatitis and tissue proliferation result from hypersensitivity reaction to the nematode larvae; the medial canthus is a common site of infection. 1 month TB colt had diarrhea and a seizure. The colt was in lateral and non-responsive after arrival at the referral hospital with nystagmus, paddling and neck muscle contractions, absent pain response. Euthanized. Postmortem diagnosis: streptococcus equi zooepidemicus fibrinosuppurative meningoencephalitis. Bacterial culture of the affected brain and lymph node both revealed Streptococcus equi ssp. zooepidemicus, which is considered one of the most likely causes of meningoencephalitis. 1 day old TB colt presented for dullness and laboured breathing since birth. Euthanized. Postmortem diagnosis: Complex congenital heart disease: persistent truncus arteriosus and ventricular septal defect. Ventricular septal defects (VSDs) are the most common congenital cardiac defect in horses with an increased prevalence in certain breeds such as Standardbreds, Welsh Mountain ponies, and Arabian horses [1]. In a study evaluating cardiac defects in neonatal foals [2], 5/18 cases had abnormalities in the greater vessels, 1 being a persistent truncus arteriosus and VSDs were present in 14/18 cases. The mass noted in the region of the left lobe of the thyroid gland is histologically consistent with an ultimobranchial cyst. The ultimobranchial body originates from the fifth pharyngeal pouch and gives rise to C-cells in the postnatal thyroid. Although benign, this represents a second congenital defect present in this foal.

OMAFA (Bukunmi Odebunmi & Alison Moore)

Immediately Notifiable Diseases: Case Reports to OMAFA West Nile Virus:  8 cases this quarter occurred in the following counties:  Algoma, Grey (2), District of Parry Sound, Regional Municipality of Peel, District of Sudbury, Regional Municipality of Waterloo (2). First wild bird case 2025: May 26th First Equine case 2025: August 12th Eastern Equine Encephalitis virus: 8 cases this quarter in the following counties: Halton, Hamilton (2), City of Ottawa, Renfrew, Simcoe, Wellington (2). First case 2025: July 28th Equine Herpesvirus-1: There was 1 facility affected by EHV-1 neurologic disease in Q3 in the Regional municipality of Halton (non-neuropathic strain). Map of counties with facilities positive for EHV-1 (with EHM) in 2025  Available from: Equine Disease Tracking Network v 2.1 (arcgis.com)           Strangles: During Q3 there were 8 new facilities managing Strangles for a total of 23 facilities YTD (end of Q3) .  There were 26 facilities affected by Strangles in 2024. Map of counties with facilities positive for Strangles in  2025. Available from: Equine Disease Tracking Network v 2.1 (arcgis.com)       Equine Influenza: There were no facilities affected by influenza in Q3. Q3 Equine Syndromic Surveillance: Graphs of disease syndromes based on samples sent for testing to the Animal Health Laboratory. This information is compiled based on the type of sample, test ordered, and key terms included in the submission history (if provided). There was an: Mortality and Gastro syndromic figures both show similar week to week variations across Q3 of 2024 and 2025. Neurologic submissions varied with a peak in week 28 followed by a drop and a slight increase towards week 40. Compared to 2024 with a fluctuating trend and notable spike around week 29, followed by a drop and slight increase towards week 40. Respiratory submissions showed a decrease near the end of Q3 same as 2024 There were week to week variations with an upward spike in week 36 followed by a decline toward the end of the Quarter vs 2024 (Spike in week 30)

Please follow: Outbreaks | Equine Disease Communication Center (equinediseasecc.org) for reported outbreaks!

Syndromic and AHL Laboratory Data Surveillance

Survey – Key points

• 24 Counties represented
• 56% equine, 19% equine and small animal, 13% mixed animal, 6% equine and food animal and 6% other
• 26% of veterinarians reported working with pleasure/backyard horses, 22% with performance/Competition/Show horses , 14% with foals, breeding and young stock,, 14% with draft horses, 14% with mules/donkeys, 7% racehorses and 3% with buggy horses.
• Increases in Q3 were noted for (foal): Rhodococcus equi pneumonia and Lawsonia intracellularis enteropathy
• Increases in Q3 were noted for (adult): Asthma, Potomac Horse Fever, choke, late September colics, WNV, pastern dermatitis, allergic dermatitis, early embryonic death, insulin dysregulation,/PPID/EMS, FUP in several racehorses, corneal ulcers, EHV 2/5 infections, pemphigus foliaceus, fetlock fractures, red maple toxicity

New conditions or those without a diagnosis:

• Increased nosebleeds without a specific cause – suspect URT irritation/allergens
• Axial sesamoiditis
• Suspect chronic pergolide overdose
• Semi-acute onset of what looked like neck pain that progressed to ataxia and brain stem-like clinical signs, euthanized 8 days after initial onset. Fully vaccinated. Negative for EHV. PM declined
• Suspected red maple toxicity (hematuria, anemia, fever, colic signs)

Equine Research from Ontario and Around the World

Researchers in Ontario
A high proportion of bacterial isolates from septic neonatal foals in Ontario express multidrug resistance and low susceptibility to first-line antimicrobials.Espinosa Seoane D, Riley CB, Kenney DG, Spencer A, Arroyo LG.J Am Vet Med Assoc. 2025 Oct 1:1-8. doi: 10.2460/javma.25.05.0339.

Isolation of Clostridioides difficile from a Large Animal Veterinary Teaching Hospital Environment.Borges AS, Zakia LS, Yu S, Surette MG, Arroyo LG.Animals (Basel). 2025 Sep 15;15(18):2703. doi: 10.3390/ani15182703.PMID: 41007948 Free PMC article.

Laparoscopic cryptorchidectomy in 10 equids using a single incision laparoscopic surgery (SILS) port device.Muñoz AM, Cribb N.Can Vet J. 2025 Sep 1;66(9):966-973. eCollection 2025 Sep.

QT Interval and Cardiac Restitution Ratio Complexity in Standardbred Racehorses From Rest to Maximal Effort: Insights Into Arrhythmia Risk.Avison A, Goderre BG, Pyle WG, Physick-Sheard PW.J Vet Intern Med. 2025 Sep-Oct;39(5):e70207. doi: 10.1111/jvim.70207.PMID: 40926462 Free PMC article.

Integration of empirical network data and agent-based modelling to examine the risk of equine influenza infection in equine athletes in Ontario, Canada.Turcotte G, O’Sullivan TL, Rossi TM, Spence KL, Winder CB, Greer AL.Prev Vet Med. 2025 Dec;245:106665. doi: 10.1016/j.prevetmed.2025.106665. Epub 2025 Aug 26.PMID: 40897123 Free article.

Researchers around the world

Antimicrobial use / resistance

Antibiotic Use in Horses: Analysis of 57 German Veterinary Practices (2018-2023). Merle R, Feuer L, Frenzer K, Plenio JL, Bethe A, Sarnino N, Lübke-Becker A, Bäumer W.Antibiotics (Basel). 2025 Sep 19;14(9):953. doi: 10.3390/antibiotics14090953.PMID: 41009931 Free PMC article.

Antimicrobial Resistance and Genetic Characterization of Streptococcus equi subsp. zooepidemicus in Equines from Central Italy: Insights from a One Health Perspective. Alessiani A, Baffoni M, Averaimo D, Cantelmi MC, Coccaro A, Rulli M, Piersanti V, Pompilii C, Cito F, Chiaverini A, Petrini A.Animals (Basel). 2025 Sep 16;15(18):2713. doi: 10.3390/ani15182713.PMID: 41007958 Free PMC article.

Exploring the knowledge, attitudes, and practices of livestock veterinarians on antibiotic prescription and use: insights from focus group discussions. Nogueira R, Pinho JO, Plácido AI, Coelho AC, Oliveira PA, Figueiras A, Roque F, Herdeiro MT.Animal. 2025 Oct;19(10):101648. doi: 10.1016/j.animal.2025.101648. Epub 2025 Sep 4.PMID: 41004860 Free article.

Understanding how veterinarians’ knowledge, attitudes, and practices influence antibiotic prescription: a systematic review of survey studies. Sousa A, de Rago L, Pinho JO, Estrela M, Coelho AC, Oliveira PA, Figueiras A, Roque F, Herdeiro MT.BMC Vet Res. 2025 Sep 24;21(1):543. doi: 10.1186/s12917-025-05001-6.PMID: 40993662 Free PMC article.

Antimicrobial prescribing guidelines for horses in Australia. Hardefeldt L, Thomas K, Page S, Norris J, Browning G, El Hage C, Stewart A, Gilkerson J, Muscatello G, Verwilghen D, van Galen G, Bauquier J, Cuming R, Reynolds B, Whittaker C, Wilkes E, Clulow J, Burden C, Begg L.Aust Vet J. 2025 Sep 3. doi: 10.1111/avj.70003. Online ahead of print.

Behaviour

Physiological and Behavioral Responses of Stabled Horses (Equus caballus) to Three Types of Environmental Enrichment. Brauns M, Ali A, Berger J, McLean A.Animals (Basel). 2025 Sep 23;15(19):2779. doi: 10.3390/ani15192779.PMID: 41096375 Free PMC article.

Horses (Equus caballus) successfully solve an object choice task using a human pointing gesture and a physical marker: A partial replication of Proops et al. (2010). Dumičić I, Ostojić L.J Comp Psychol. 2025 Sep 29. doi: 10.1037/com0000429.

Cardiology

Reference Values and Association of Body Weight, Age, and Sex With Echocardiographic Measurements in Non-Athletic Quarter Horses. Selecky ME, Louie EW, Donnelly C, Finno CJ, Morgan JM.J Vet Intern Med. 2025 Sep-Oct;39(5):e70237. doi: 10.1111/jvim.70237.PMID: 40931454 Free PMC article.

Horse model of spontaneous atrial fibrillation share proteomic changes with humans. Nissen SD, Bastrup JA, Haugaard SL, Marion-Knudsen R, Schneider M, Kjeldsen ST, Carstensen H, Hopster-Iversen C, Nattel S, Jepps TA, Buhl R.Sci Rep. 2025 Aug 28;15(1):31694. doi: 10.1038/s41598-025-16885-7.PMID: 40877415 Free PMC article.

Animal and cellular models of atrial fibrillation: a review. Wu Q, Wu X, Feng T, Chen F, Ren J, Gao S, Wang B, Li Y, Gong L.Front Cardiovasc Med. 2025 Aug 11;12:1617652. doi: 10.3389/fcvm.2025.1617652. eCollection 2025.PMID: 40860356 Free PMC article.

A fitness tracker can be used interchangeably with a reference method for underwater single-lead electrocardiography but not heart rate variability analysis in swimming horses. Kisilevich Q, O’Connor SGP, Bayly WM, Léguillette R.Am J Vet Res. 2025 Aug 12:1-8. doi: 10.2460/ajvr.25.04.0113. Online ahead of print.PMID: 40795991 Free article.

Cardiac arrhythmia prevalence and risk factors in 24-h electrocardiograms of sedentary horses. Maas LT, Louie EW, Finno CJ, Donnelly CG, Stern JA, Hill AE, Morgan JM.Equine Vet J. 2025 Jul 18. doi: 10.1111/evj.14543. Online ahead of print.

Dentistry

Microbiome and Dental Changes in Horses Fed a High Soluble Carbohydrate Diet. Lacerenza MD, Arantes JA, Reginato GM, Finardi GLF, Marchi PH, Vendramini THA, Corrêa RR, Pereira PAM, Valadão CAA, Dória RGS.Animals (Basel). 2025 Aug 29;15(17):2547. doi: 10.3390/ani15172547.PMID: 40941342 Free PMC article.

Effects of Sedation on Rectal Temperature During Equine Dental Procedures Performed in Cold to Warm Ambient Temperatures. Norman AJ, Turner CM, Manfredi JM.J Vet Dent. 2025 Sep 3:8987564251371523. doi: 10.1177/08987564251371523. Online ahead of print.PMID: 40900025

Dermatology

Cold atmospheric plasma-aerosol treatment of equine dermatophytosis: a novel therapeutic approach. Kurras S, Knottenbelt D, Schmelz U, Schaal T, Tischendorf T, Fuchs R, Schorling T, Koene MHW.Front Vet Sci. 2025 Jul 28;12:1651946. doi: 10.3389/fvets.2025.1651946. eCollection 2025.PMID: 40792055 Free PMC article.

Gray-Horse Melanoma-A Wolf in Sheep’s Clothing. Brodesser DM, Schlangen K, Rodríguez-Rojas A, Kuropka B, Doulidis PG, Brandt S, Pratscher B.Int J Mol Sci. 2025 Jul 10;26(14):6620. doi: 10.3390/ijms26146620.PMID: 40724880 Free PMC article.

Endocrinology

Seasonal elevation in equine adrenocorticotropic hormone occurs throughout the contiguous United States and is influenced by latitude and age. Pinn-Woodcock TL, Llanos-Soto SG, Ivanek R, Goodrich E, Frye E, Wells A, Mullen K, Arbittier E, Hughes L, Berryhill E, Brosnahan P, Buslinger L, Schnabel L, DeNotta S, Mallicote M, Peek S, Place NJ.J Am Vet Med Assoc. 2025 Aug 1;263(11):1380-1389.

Gastroenterology

Gut microbiome regulation in equine animals: current understanding and future perspectives. Li F, Kong X, Khan MZ, Wei L, Wei J, Zhu M, Liu G, Huang B, Wang C, Zhang Z.Front Microbiol. 2025 Sep 24;16:1602258. doi: 10.3389/fmicb.2025.1602258. eCollection 2025.PMID: 41070119 Free PMC article.

Quantification of immune cells in full thickness and mucosal biopsies of the duodenum and rectum in a group of slaughter horses.Robel M, Grest P, Riond B, Zablotski Y, Schoster A.J Equine Vet Sci. 2025 Sep 11;154:105701. doi: 10.1016/j.jevs.2025.105701.

Road transportation is associated with decreased intestinal motility in horses. Raidal SL, Freccero F, Carstens A, Weaver S, Padalino B.Front Vet Sci. 2025 Aug 18;12:1647236. doi: 10.3389/fvets.2025.1647236. eCollection 2025.PMID: 40901066 Free PMC article.

Risk factors associated with gastric disease prevalence in extensively kept horses in Iceland evaluated four times in a calendar year. Luthersson N, Harris PA, Parkin T, Þorgrímsdóttir ÚÝ, Bennet ED.Equine Vet J. 2025 Sep 1. doi: 10.1111/evj.70072. Online ahead of print.

Alterations in the Microbiome of Horses Affected with Fecal Water Syndrome. Porter MM, Davis DJ, McAdams ZL, Townsend KS, Martin LM, Wilhite C, Johnson PJ, Ericsson AC.Vet Sci. 2025 Jul 31;12(8):724. doi: 10.3390/vetsci12080724.PMID: 40872676 Free PMC article.

Gastric Candidiasis in Five Horses: A Case Series. Neira-Egea P, Alamar Malvoisin C, de la Cuesta-Torrado M, Bautista-Erler C, Vitale V, Jolly S, Cesarini C.Microorganisms. 2025 Jul 25;13(8):1746. doi: 10.3390/microorganisms13081746.PMID: 40871249 Free PMC article.

Draft horses have similar outcomes as nondraft horses presenting for colic at a referral institution in Atlantic Canada. Burns JJ, Stull J, John E, Doyle A.J Am Vet Med Assoc. 2025 Aug 27;263(11):1427-1433. doi: 10.2460/javma.25.05.0320. Print 2025

The horse gut bacteriome and anaerobic mycobiome are influenced by seasonal forages and small intestinal starch digestibility. Wunderlich G, Bull M, McGilchrist N, Zhao C, Ross T, Rose M, Chapman B.J Appl Microbiol. 2025 Sep 1;136(9):lxaf203. doi: 10.1093/jambio/lxaf203.

Total mixed ration enhances nutrient digestibility, blood biochemical parameters and faecal microbial diversity in horses. Jing H, Liu P, Zheng S, Cao K, Li X.BMC Vet Res. 2025 Jul 23;21(1):483. doi: 10.1186/s12917-025-04937-z.PMID: 40696370 Free PMC article.

Geriatric Medicine

Indicators of mortality risk in ageing horses. Kelemen Z, Vogl C, Torres Borda L, Auer U, Jenner F.Geroscience. 2025 Jun 25. doi: 10.1007/s11357-025-01738-y. Online ahead of print.

Hoof

Comparing the Difference in Traction Between the Bare Hoof, Iron Horseshoes and Two Glue-On Models on Different Surfaces. Siedler C, Zinkanel YM, Schramel JP, Peham C.Sensors (Basel). 2025 Sep 26;25(19):5975. doi: 10.3390/s25195975.PMID: 41094798 Free PMC article.

Association between radiographic equine distal phalanx characteristics and absence, presence and type of horseshoes. Ennsmann LH, Licka TF.Front Vet Sci. 2025 Jul 25;12:1598038. doi: 10.3389/fvets.2025.1598038. eCollection 2025.PMID: 40786980 Free PMC article.

Horse Racing

Better hoof, better horse – genetic correlations between ability to race barefoot and performance in trotting horses. Berglund P, Andonov S, Strandberg E, Eriksson S.Animal. 2025 Sep 23;19(11):101664. doi: 10.1016/j.animal.2025.101664. Online ahead of print.PMID: 41108946 Free article.

Born to run? Racing and training outcomes, population dynamics and traceability of a Thoroughbred birth cohort. Mouncey R, de Mestre AM, Verheyen KL.Vet Rec. 2025 Oct 4;197(7):e5777. doi: 10.1002/vetr.5777. Epub 2025 Sep 26.PMID: 41000051 Free PMC article.

Retrospective performance-indexed analysis of Thoroughbred racehorses undergoing surgical management of proximal sesamoid bone fractures. Yeomans A, Cramp P, Carpenter R, Bladon B.Equine Vet J. 2025 Sep 19. doi: 10.1111/evj.70102. Online ahead of print.

A move in the right direction: Tracking the traceability of British Thoroughbreds outside of racing. Williams JM, Jordan S, Friend L, Kay E, Edmunds M, Flynn H, Wensley S.PLoS One. 2025 Sep 19;20(9):e0331968. doi: 10.1371/journal.pone.0331968. eCollection 2025.PMID: 40971368 Free PMC article.

Thoroughbreds deemed to be most at risk by inertial measurement unit sensors suffered a fatal musculoskeletal injury at a higher rate than other racehorses. Mc Sweeney D, Wang Y, Palmer SE, Holmströem M, Donohue KD, Farnsworth KD, Sanz MG, Lambert DH, Bayly WM.J Am Vet Med Assoc. 2025 Sep 17:1-8. doi: 10.2460/javma.25.04.0268. Online ahead of print.

A case-matched controlled retrospective performance indexed analysis of Thoroughbred racehorses that underwent surgical repair of proximal phalanx and third meta-carpal/tarsal condylar fractures. Yeomans A, Martinkovich D, O’Brien T, O’Neill H, Carpenter R, Georgetti M, Cramp P.Equine Vet J. 2025 Sep 4. doi: 10.1111/evj.70088. Online ahead of print.

Exploring Monthly Variation of Gait Asymmetry During In-Hand Trot in Thoroughbred Racehorses in Race Training. Pfau T, Forbes B, Sepulveda-Caviedes F, Chan Z, Weller R.Animals (Basel). 2025 Aug 20;15(16):2449. doi: 10.3390/ani15162449.PMID: 40867777 Free PMC article.

RNA-seq analysis identifies key genes enhancing hoof strength to withstand barefoot racing in Standardbred trotters. Schwochow D, Alameddine A, Spörndly-Nees E, Montigny M, Naboulsi R, Jansson A, Niazi A, Lindgren G.BMC Genomics. 2025 Aug 18;26(1):751. doi: 10.1186/s12864-025-11814-4.PMID: 40826322 Free PMC article.

Owner-Observed Behavioral Characteristics in Off-the-Track Thoroughbreds (OTTTBs) in Equestrian Second Careers. Knox AL, Fenner K, Zsoldos RR, Wilson B, McGreevy P.Animals (Basel). 2025 Jul 11;15(14):2046. doi: 10.3390/ani15142046.PMID: 40723508 Free PMC article.

Inspiratory and expiratory tracheal pressures during high-intensity exercise in harness racehorses. Vermedal H, Hellings IR, Fretheim-Kelly ZL, Fintl C, Olsen HMB, Strand E.Equine Vet J. 2025 Jul 21. doi: 10.1111/evj.14557. Online ahead of print

Infectious Disease

Influenza D Virus Circulation Among Bovines, Swine, Equines, and Wild Boars in Italy: A Sero-Epidemiological Study. Falsini A, Coppola C, Fiori A, Buonavoglia D, Marchi S, Montomoli E, Pellegrini F, Lanave G, Martella V, Camero M, Trombetta CM.Pathogens. 2025 Sep 5;14(9):891. doi: 10.3390/pathogens14090891.PMID: 41011791 Free PMC article.

Introduction of West Nile virus lineage 2 leads to neuroinvasive cases in humans and horses in Sicily, 2022-2023. Gucciardi F, De Grazia S, Guercio A, La Russa F, Di Pasquale ML, Bonura F, Monaco F, Spedicato M, Bonfini B, Savini G, Giammanco GM, Purpari G.Vet Res. 2025 Sep 25;56(1):177. doi: 10.1186/s13567-025-01575-z.PMID: 40999548 Free PMC article.

Blood parameters in neonatal foal and colostrum quality as possible early markers for increased risk of developing Rhodococcus equi pneumonia. Villalba-Orero M, Gómez CA, Valero-Gónzalez M, Venegas N, Criado G, Martín-Cuervo M.Front Vet Sci. 2025 Aug 29;12:1654052. doi: 10.3389/fvets.2025.1654052. eCollection 2025.PMID: 40948621 Free PMC article.

Genetic Diversity of Equid Herpesvirus 5 in Temporal Samples from Mares and Their Foals at Three Polish National Studs. Stasiak K, Dunowska M, Rola J.Int J Mol Sci. 2025 Aug 27;26(17):8298. doi: 10.3390/ijms26178298.PMID: 40943220 Free PMC article.

Human Adenovirus 36 Antibodies in Horses with Different Metabolic Statuses. Chwirot A, Niedźwiedź A, Stygar D, Siwińska N, Paszkowska M, Niżański W, Napierkowska S, Migdał P, Kublicka A, Marynowska M, Matczuk A, Fuller D, Bażanów B.Animals (Basel). 2025 Aug 27;15(17):2527. doi: 10.3390/ani15172527.PMID: 40941322 Free PMC article.

Pegiviruses and Coronavirus: Biomolecular Prevalence and Phylogenetic Analysis of Strains Detected in Italian Horse Populations. Ricci I, Rosone F, Pacchiarotti G, Manna G, Cersini A, Carvelli A, La Rocca D, Cammalleri E, Giordani R, Tofani S, Conti R, Rombolà P, Nardini R, Minniti CA, Caforio R, Linardi B, Scicluna MT.Viruses. 2025 Aug 2;17(8):1076. doi: 10.3390/v17081076.PMID: 40872790 Free PMC article.

Role and Contribution of Serological Surveillance in Animals and Exposed Humans to the Study of Zoonotic Influenza Disease Epidemiology: A Scoping Review. Badra R, Zhang W, Tam JSL, Webby R, van der Werf S, Nikisins S, Cullinane A, Gharaibeh S, Njouom R, Peiris M, Kayali G, Heraud JM.Pathogens. 2025 Jul 27;14(8):739. doi: 10.3390/pathogens14080739.PMID: 40872249 Free PMC article.

Cellular Immune Response in Horses After West Nile Neuroinvasive Disease. Tolnai C, O’Sullivan C, Lőrincz M, Karvouni M, Tenk M, Marosi A, Forgách P, Paszerbovics B, Wagenhoffer Z, Kutasi O.Animals (Basel). 2025 Aug 11;15(16):2352. doi: 10.3390/ani15162352.PMID: 40867680 Free PMC article.

Airborne detection of Equid alphaherpesvirus 1 at international equestrian events. Khan A, Jose-Cunilleras E, Hyde E, Olajide E, Polo MC, Goehring LS.Equine Vet J. 2025 Aug 24. doi: 10.1111/evj.70078. Online ahead of print.

Seroprevalence of Toxoplasma gondii in Equids: A Global Systematic Review and Meta-analysis. Ye T, Li XM, Tan WX, Wang CL, Jiang J, Zhao Q.Acta Parasitol. 2025 Aug 7;70(4):167. doi: 10.1007/s11686-025-01108-w.

Three positively charged binding sites on the eastern equine encephalitis virus E2 glycoprotein coordinate heparan sulfate- and protein receptor-dependent infection. Alcorn MDH, Sun C, Gilliland TC Jr, Lukash T, Crasto CM, Raju S, Diamond MS, Weaver SC, Klimstra WB.Nat Commun. 2025 Aug 5;16(1):7227. doi: 10.1038/s41467-025-62513-3.PMID: 40764487 Free PMC article.

Equine Parvovirus-Hepatitis Population Dynamics in a Single Horse over 16 Years. Scupham AJ.Viruses. 2025 Jul 4;17(7):947. doi: 10.3390/v17070947.PMID: 40733563 Free PMC article.

Unwelcome neighbours: Tracking the transmission of Streptococcus equi in the United Kingdom horse population. McGlennon AA, Verheyen KL, Newton JR, van Tonder A, Wilson H, Parkhill J, de Brauwere N, Frosth S, Waller AS.Equine Vet J. 2025 Jul 20. doi: 10.1111/evj.14558. Online ahead of print.

Miscellaneous

Computed tomographic signs of hyoid apparatus disease in 165 horses. Hartl B, Strohmayer C, Vali Y, Lyrakis M, Kneissl SM.Front Vet Sci. 2025 Sep 19;12:1631185. doi: 10.3389/fvets.2025.1631185. eCollection 2025.PMID: 41049149 Free PMC article.

Incidence of Bacterial Colonization of Intravenous Non-Permanent Venous Catheters in Hospitalized Equine Patients. Vitale V, Bindi F, Bertelloni F, Sala G, Cingottini D, Bonelli F, Sgorbini M.Vet Sci. 2025 Aug 22;12(9):788. doi: 10.3390/vetsci12090788.PMID: 41012714 Free PMC article.

Selected comparative aspects and unexpected findings in acute phase proteins and other biomarkers of animal health and welfare. Eckersall PD, Ceron JJ.Res Vet Sci. 2025 Sep 2;196:105870. doi: 10.1016/j.rvsc.2025.105870. Online ahead of print.PMID: 40925089 Review.

Risks and uncertainty associated with prices set by equine boarding facility owners. Thompson JM, Kibler ML, Ivey JLZ.Transl Anim Sci. 2025 Aug 19;9:txaf107. doi: 10.1093/tas/txaf107. eCollection 2025.PMID: 40901356 Free PMC article.

Isolation of major bacterial species associated with equine skin wounds and in-vitro antibacterial activities of selected medicinal plants. Beshir A, Kemal J, Abraha B, Tola EH.Sci Rep. 2025 Aug 29;15(1):31942. doi: 10.1038/s41598-025-01062-7.PMID: 40883320 Free PMC article.

Topical Use of Sucralfate in Cutaneous Wound Management: A Narrative Review with a Veterinary Perspective. Accorroni L, Dini F, Pilati N, Marchegiani A, Bazzano M, Spaterna A, Laus F.Vet Sci. 2025 Aug 13;12(8):756. doi: 10.3390/vetsci12080756.PMID: 40872708 Free PMC article.

Retrospective Evaluation of Synchronous Diaphragmatic Flutter in Horses: 37 Cases (2004-2022). Faircloth J, Fielding L, Epstein K, Crabtree N, Mochal C, Magdesian KG, Major D.J Vet Emerg Crit Care (San Antonio). 2025 Jul-Aug;35(4):392-397. doi: 10.1111/vec.70009.

Horse owners seeking online health information: a mixed-methods study. Haase L, Winter J, Grummt S, Sedlmayr M, Sedlmayr B.Front Vet Sci. 2025 Jul 23;12:1628421. doi: 10.3389/fvets.2025.1628421. eCollection 2025.PMID: 40771955 Free PMC article.

Pathophysiology of penetrating captive-bolt stunning of horses. Fletcher KA, Benedetti B, Limon G, Grist A, Padalino B, Hernández-Gil M, Gibson TJ.Anim Welf. 2025 Jul 25;34:e51. doi: 10.1017/awf.2025.10025. eCollection 2025.PMID: 40735425 Free PMC article.

Ohio horse industry survey: feeding and housing management practices. Share ER, Mastellar SL, Rumble JN, Eastridge ML.Transl Anim Sci. 2025 Jul 15;9:txaf072. doi: 10.1093/tas/txaf072. eCollection 2025.PMID: 40666790 Free PMC article.

Neurology

Feasibility and safety of intrathecal transplantation of allogeneic bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells in horses. de Oliveira Ferreira LV, Maia L, Barberini DJ, Takahira RK, de Vasconcelos Machado VM, Machado GF, de Melo GD, Amorim RM.Vet Res Commun. 2025 Sep 29;49(6):333. doi: 10.1007/s11259-025-10920-8.

Analysis of IgG responses to Sarcocystis neurona in horses with equine protozoal myeloencephalitis (EPM) suggests a Th1-biased immune response. Angwin CJ, de Assis Rocha I, Reed SM, Morrow JK, Graves A, Howe DK.Vet Immunol Immunopathol. 2025 Sep 24;289:111009. doi: 10.1016/j.vetimm.2025.111009.

A retrospective study of 171 cases of equine meningoencephalomyelitis in the United States, 1996-2023. Countrymann K, Ruby R, Miller AD.J Vet Diagn Invest. 2025 Sep 23:10406387251362241. doi: 10.1177/10406387251362241. Online ahead of print.PMID: 40988382 Free PMC article.

Trigeminal Nerve Asymmetry in Horses With Idiopathic Trigeminal-Mediated Headshaking: A Retrospective Case-Control Magnetic Resonance Imaging Study. Heun F, Delarocque J, Feige K, Hellige M.J Vet Intern Med. 2025 Sep-Oct;39(5):e70196. doi: 10.1111/jvim.70196.PMID: 40739903 Free PMC article.

Nutrition

Effects of vitamin E and selenium supplementation on oxidative stress parameters and marker of genomic instability in show jumping equines exposed to different sources of atmospheric pollution. Dos Santos Gomes V, Dos Santos Marques JV, da Silva GN, Marmett B, Dallegrave E.Environ Monit Assess. 2025 Aug 29;197(9):1058. doi: 10.1007/s10661-025-14509-1.

Ophthalmology

Exploratory Metabolomic Fingerprinting of Aqueous Humor in Healthy Horses and Donkeys, and in Horses with Ocular Pathologies. Corradini I, Jose-Cunilleras E, Nolis P, López-Murcia MM, Mayordomo-Febrer A.Animals (Basel). 2025 Sep 26;15(19):2810. doi: 10.3390/ani15192810.PMID: 41096405 Free PMC article.

The effect of topical antibiotic or antibiotic-corticosteroid treatment on the ocular surface microbiota of healthy horses. Martin de Bustamante MG, Plummer CE, Caddey B, Gomez DE.Front Microbiol. 2025 Aug 4;16:1535095. doi: 10.3389/fmicb.2025.1535095. eCollection 2025.PMID: 40831630 Free PMC article.

Orthopedics

Cervical epidural catheter for administration of detomidine and morphine in a model of carpal synovitis in the horse. Edwards VL, Reed R, Perlini M, Moorman VJ.Vet Surg. 2025 Sep 29. doi: 10.1111/vsu.70031. Online ahead of print.

Platelet-Rich Plasma in Equine Osteoarthritis: A Systematic Review of Clinical and Experimental Evidence. Carmona JU, López C.Animals (Basel). 2025 Sep 9;15(18):2647. doi: 10.3390/ani15182647.PMID: 41007891 Free PMC article.

Distal interphalangeal joint capsule enthesopathy of the middle phalanx and articular cartilage loss. Samol MA, Barrett MF, Frisbie DD.Equine Vet J. 2025 Sep 19. doi: 10.1111/evj.70096. Online ahead of print.

Regenerative biologics modulating inflammation and promoting tenogenesis in equine superficial digital flexor tendonitis: from molecular pathways to clinical translation. Najeb M, Samy A, Rizk A, Mosbah E, Karrouf G.Ir Vet J. 2025 Sep 17;78(1):21. doi: 10.1186/s13620-025-00309-z.PMID: 40963139 Free PMC article. Review.

Comparison of Two Surgical Techniques for the Treatment of Equine Hindlimb Proximal Suspensory Desmopathy. Freeman KD, Adams MN, Salinger AE, White NA 2nd, Barrett JG.Animals (Basel). 2025 Sep 4;15(17):2598. doi: 10.3390/ani15172598.PMID: 40941393 Free PMC article.

Diagnostic Performance of Radiography for the Evaluation of Osteoarthritis in the Equine Distal Tarsus: Comparison with Computed Tomography. Steiger JI, Richter H, Donati B, Ohlerth S.Animals (Basel). 2025 Aug 27;15(17):2522. doi: 10.3390/ani15172522.PMID: 40941317 Free PMC article.

Refinement of the Lipopolysaccharide-Induced Synovitis Model in Equine Middle Carpal Joints. Duggan MJS, Kearney C, Baltrimaite M, Labberté MC, Gibney R, Brama PAJ.Animals (Basel). 2025 Aug 22;15(17):2474. doi: 10.3390/ani15172474.PMID: 40941269 Free PMC article.

Lateromedial and oblique radiographs detect most fetlock pathologies as effectively as a full series in horses. Northwood A, Berner D.Equine Vet J. 2025 Aug 13. doi: 10.1111/evj.70073. Online ahead of print.

Clinical Updates on Superficial Digital Flexor Tendon Injuries: Insights on Diagnostic and Therapeutic Advancements. Smith RKW, Schramme MC.Vet Clin North Am Equine Pract. 2025 Aug;41(2):279-298. doi: 10.1016/j.cveq.2025.04.003.PMID: 40707073 Review.

Parasitology

A pilot study on the potency of injectable vs. oral moxidectin formulation to suppress strongyle egg excretion in horses at twice lower dose. Šarkūnas M, Schwahn A, Suleimanova K.Helminthologia. 2025 Sep 30;62(2):87-94. doi: 10.2478/helm-2025-0018. eCollection 2025 Jun.PMID: 41058774 Free PMC article.

Independent Development of Resistance to Main Classes of Anthelmintics by Gastrointestinal Nematodes of Ruminants and Horses. Cabaret J.Pathogens. 2025 Sep 5;14(9):898. doi: 10.3390/pathogens14090898.PMID: 41011797 Free PMC article.

A study of the epidemiology of Anoplocephala perfoliata infection in horses and the oribatid mite vector in southern England. Wickenden H, Lightbody KL, Peczak N, Stevens KB, Pollard D, Blake DP, Austin CJ, Matthews JB, Fox MT.Int J Parasitol. 2025 Sep 20:S0020-7519(25)00178-X. doi: 10.1016/j.ijpara.2025.09.003. Online ahead of print.PMID: 40983160 Free article.

Progress in serology and molecular biology of equine parasite diagnosis: sustainable control strategies. Wang T, Chen X, Yan X, Su Y, Gao W, Liu C, Wang W.Front Vet Sci. 2025 Sep 4;12:1663577. doi: 10.3389/fvets.2025.1663577. eCollection 2025.PMID: 40979365 Free PMC article.

Pharmacology

Differential effects of flunixin meglumine and meloxicam on TNF- alpha production in LPS-stimulated equine neutrophils in vitro. Urayama S, Muko R, Muranaka M, Mita H, Ohta M, Matsuda H, Tanaka A.Vet Anim Sci. 2025 Sep 21;30:100513. doi: 10.1016/j.vas.2025.100513. eCollection 2025 Dec.PMID: 41078983 Free PMC article.

Sources of Environmental Exposure to the Naturally Occurring Anabolic Steroid Ecdysterone in Horses. Sillence MN, Holt K, Li FI, Harris PA, Coyle M, Fitzgerald DM.Animals (Basel). 2025 Jul 17;15(14):2120. doi: 10.3390/ani15142120.PMID: 40723581 Free PMC article.

Rehabilitation

Complications of the Recumbent Horse: Diagnosis and Management. Delvescovo B, Bouton J.Vet Clin North Am Equine Pract. 2025 Sep 30:S0749-0739(25)00052-5. doi: 10.1016/j.cveq.2025.08.009. Online ahead of print.PMID: 41033903 Review.

Behavioral Assessment of Equine Relaxation Following Manual Therapy: A Pilot Study. Paksoy Y, Ural K, Erdoğan H, Erdoğan S, Paşa S.Vet Sci. 2025 Sep 5;12(9):865. doi: 10.3390/vetsci12090865.PMID: 41012790 Free PMC article.

Reproduction

Shifts between pro-inflammatory and anti-inflammatory profiles in pregnant mares: a review of physiological functions. Satué K, La Fauci D, Medica P, Damiá Gímenez E, Cravana C, Fazio E.Front Vet Sci. 2025 Sep 18;12:1660759. doi: 10.3389/fvets.2025.1660759. eCollection 2025.PMID: 41049139 Free PMC article.

Behavioral and orthopedic issues in geldings with Postcastration adhesions: A retrospective study of 35 cases. Domańska-Kruppa N, Benoit P, Żukiewicz-Benoit K, Domino M, Kliczkowska K, Szubart M, Stefanik E.Res Vet Sci. 2025 Sep 23;196:105910. doi: 10.1016/j.rvsc.2025.105910. Online ahead of print.PMID: 41014859 Free article.

Proteomic profiling of endometrial tissue and plasma from mares with endometrial fibrosis†. Muderspach ND, Daucke R, Nielsen MW, Scoggin KE, Fedorka CE, Miller LMJ, May MG, Troedsson MHT, Ferreira-Dias G, Agerholm JS, Schoof EM, Christoffersen M.Biol Reprod. 2025 Sep 27:ioaf217. doi: 10.1093/biolre/ioaf217. Online ahead of print.PMID: 41014196

Effects of Intra-uterine Ceftiofur on the Equine Uterine Microbiome. Beckers KF, Liu CC, Gomes VCL, Schulz CJ, Childers GW, Fedorka CE, Sones JL.Vet Sci. 2025 Aug 30;12(9):837. doi: 10.3390/vetsci12090837.PMID: 41012762 Free PMC article.

Challenges and Enhancing Strategies of Equine Semen Preservation: Nutritional and Genetic Perspectives. Ullah A, Chen W, Shi L, Wang M, Geng M, Na J, Akhtar MF, Khan MZ, Wang C.Vet Sci. 2025 Aug 25;12(9):807. doi: 10.3390/vetsci12090807.PMID: 41012733 Free PMC article. Review.

Retrospective Evaluation of Cryptorchid Sidedness at Colorado State University Between 1984 and 2014 and Oakridge Equine Hospital Between 2008 and 2023. Fain H, Hendrickson DA, Buesing MT, Griffenhagen G.Vet Sci. 2025 Aug 23;12(9):796. doi: 10.3390/vetsci12090796.PMID: 41012723 Free PMC article.

Detection of Pathogenic Leptospira DNA in Cervicovaginal Mucus of Mares With Reproductive Disorders in a Brazilian Herd.Motta D, Pedrosa J, Lilenbaum W.Reprod Domest Anim. 2025 Sep;60(9):e70125. doi: 10.1111/rda.70125.PMID: 40988486 Free PMC article.

Worms and reproductive failure: First evidence of transplacental Halicephalobus transmission leading to repeated equine abortion. Springer A, Krüger C, Strube C, Steinhauer D.Curr Res Parasitol Vector Borne Dis. 2025 Aug 20;8:100309. doi: 10.1016/j.crpvbd.2025.100309. eCollection 2025.PMID: 40948903 Free PMC article.

Detection of Neorickettsia risticii in antemortem fecal and postmortem fetal samples, with genomic insights from complete genome sequencing of a strain recovered from an aborted equine fetus. Uprety T, Durazo J, Paul L, Metiner K, Ruby R, Loynachan A, Janes J, Kenndy L, Cassone L, Molly E, Quick M, Morgan J, Beyhan S, Erol E.Vet Microbiol. 2025 Nov;310:110705. doi: 10.1016/j.vetmic.2025.110705. Epub 2025 Sep 2.

Associations between endometrial swab bacteriology and cytology findings and live foal rates in Thoroughbred broodmares in the United Kingdom.Fehin B, Scott CJ, Arango-Sabogal JC, de Mestre AM, Mouncey R.Equine Vet J. 2025 Sep 1. doi: 10.1111/evj.70086. Online ahead of print.

Use of Instagram as an Educational Strategy for Learning Animal Reproduction. Pérez-Marín CC.Vet Sci. 2025 Jul 25;12(8):698. doi: 10.3390/vetsci12080698.PMID: 40872648 Free PMC article.

Isolation and characterization of mesenchymal stromal cells derived from equine ovarian follicular aspirates. Muñoz-García CC, Soriano-Campos MP, Luis-Calero M, Gallardo-Soler A, González-Fernández L, Macías-García B.Theriogenology. 2026 Jan 1;249:117636. doi: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2025.117636. Epub 2025 Aug 22.PMID: 40876135 Free article.

Analgesic and Gastrointestinal Effects of Methadone in Horses Undergoing Orchiectomy. Maldonado Moreno N, Alves Moreira J, Araujo De Oliveira L, Sanches Gontijo A, Castilho Baldi ML, Rocha Wenceslau R, Beier SL.Animals (Basel). 2025 Aug 11;15(16):2358. doi: 10.3390/ani15162358.PMID: 40867687 Free PMC article.

Retrospective Evaluation of Dystocia in Miniature Equids: 78 Cases (2002-2023). Merari A, Fielding L.J Vet Emerg Crit Care (San Antonio). 2025 Jul-Aug;35(4):386-391. doi: 10.1111/vec.70014. Epub 2025 Aug 21.PMID: 40838371 Free PMC article.

Endometrial microbiome in mares with and without clinical endometritis. Guo L, Holyoak GR, DeSilva U.Front Vet Sci. 2025 Aug 1;12:1588432. doi: 10.3389/fvets.2025.1588432. eCollection 2025.PMID: 40822659 Free PMC article.

Melatonin receptors and thyroid stimulating hormone in the equine pars tuberalis: Potential modulators of seasonal reproduction in the mare. Bailey VN, Gilbert BM, Vetter M, Oberhaus EL.J Neuroendocrinol. 2025 Oct;37(10):e70077. doi: 10.1111/jne.70077. Epub 2025 Aug 10.

Concentrations of serum amyloid A and haptoglobin in mare blood and milk as indicators of subclinical mastitis.  Domańska D, Witkowska-Piłaszewicz O, Trela M, Pawłowski K, Pawliński B, Domino M.Theriogenology. 2025 Dec;248:117591. doi: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2025.117591. Epub 2025 Jul 17.PMID: 40701014 Free article.

Respiratory 

Complications of Respiratory Surgery in the Horse. Phillips NAI, Hackett ES.Vet Clin North Am Equine Pract. 2025 Sep 26:S0749-0739(25)00047-1. doi: 10.1016/j.cveq.2025.08.004.

Computer-Aided Diagnosis of Equine Pharyngeal Lymphoid Hyperplasia Using the Object Detection-Based Processing Technique of Digital Endoscopic Images. Kozłowska N, Borowska M, Jasiński T, Wierzbicka M, Domino M.Animals (Basel). 2025 Sep 22;15(18):2758. doi: 10.3390/ani15182758.PMID: 41008003 Free PMC article.

Sensory Assessment of Hay Samples: Abnormal Odor Predicts Increased Dust Levels and Impurities Suggest Microbiological Contamination. Bouverat VMA, Pradervand N, Wichert BA, Greim E, Dolf GJ, Gerber V.Animals (Basel). 2025 Sep 14;15(18):2688. doi: 10.3390/ani15182688.PMID: 41007933 Free PMC article.

Comparison Between Tracheal Wash and Bronchoalveolar Lavage Cytology for the Assessment of Airway Inflammation in Racehorses Affected by Exercise-Induced Pulmonary Hemorrhage. Bozzola C, Sala G, Stancari G, Ferrucci F, Zucca E.Animals (Basel). 2025 Sep 5;15(17):2609. doi: 10.3390/ani15172609.PMID: 40941404 Free PMC article.

Effects of mixed polyphenol supplementation on lower airway inflammation in horses with Equine Asthma Syndrome. Andrews KM, Berghaus LJ, Hart KA.J Equine Vet Sci. 2025 Sep 5;154:105681. doi: 10.1016/j.jevs.2025.105681. Online ahead of print.

Influence of a Standardized Lunging Exercise Test on BALF Cytology in Horses Suffering from Mild-Moderate Equine Asthma. Lendl L, Wirth C, Merle R, Barton AK.Animals (Basel). 2025 Aug 19;15(16):2428. doi: 10.3390/ani15162428.PMID: 40867756 Free PMC article.

Equine Asthma in a Comparative Perspective: Cardiovascular and Neurological Manifestations of Asthma Across Different Species. Dlugopolska D, Siwinska N, Noszczyk-Nowak A.Animals (Basel). 2025 Aug 12;15(16):2371. doi: 10.3390/ani15162371.PMID: 40867700 Free PMC article.

Surgical Assessment and Post-Operative Complications Following Video-Assisted Thoracoscopic Surgery (VATS) of Horses with Severe Equine Pasture Asthma During Asthma Exacerbation and Remission. Wenzel CJ, Mochal-King CA, Eddy AL, Bowser JE, Wills RW, Jumper WI, Claude A, Swiderski CE.Animals (Basel). 2025 Aug 4;15(15):2276. doi: 10.3390/ani15152276.PMID: 40805066 Free PMC article.

Endoscopically assessed mucus parameters in equine asthma: Relationship to clinical history and cytological findings data. Drespling J, Berwanger L, Kühn H, Schwarz B, Doherr M, Mundhenk L.Equine Vet J. 2025 Jul 24. doi: 10.1111/evj.70002. Online ahead of print.

Artificial intelligence in smartphone video analysis for equine asthma diagnostic support. Gomes C, Coheur L, Tilley P.Equine Vet J. 2025 Jul 21. doi: 10.1111/evj.14559. Online ahead of print.

Obesity-Associated Metabolomic and Functional Reprogramming in Neutrophils from Horses with Asthma. Albornoz A, Morales B, Fernandez VB, Henriquez C, Quiroga J, Alarcón P, Moran G, Burgos RA.Animals (Basel). 2025 Jul 7;15(13):1992. doi: 10.3390/ani15131992.PMID: 40646891 Free PMC article.

Sports medicine

Agreement between subjective evaluations and a markerless AI-based gait analysis system during lungeing assessment in traditional racehorses. Meistro F, Ralletti MV, Rinnovati R, Spadari A.J Equine Vet Sci. 2025 Sep 28;154:105704. doi: 10.1016/j.jevs.2025.105704.

From Biomechanics to Welfare: Integrative Advances in Equine Sports Medicine and Rehabilitation. Blake R, Marlin D.Animals (Basel). 2025 Sep 15;15(18):2706. doi: 10.3390/ani15182706.PMID: 41007951 Free PMC article.

Factors Influencing the Intra-Oral Movement of the Bit: A Cadaveric Study. Pollaris E, Hannes C, Haspeslagh M, Demey W, Teysen S, Boussauw B, Vlaminck L.Animals (Basel). 2025 Sep 10;15(18):2648. doi: 10.3390/ani15182648.PMID: 41007896 Free PMC article.

Developing a greenhouse gas emission model for sport horses: case studies in dressage and jumping. Huisman I, Groenestein CM, Vellinga TV, Pishgar-Komleh SH.Animal. 2025 Oct;19(10):101622. doi: 10.1016/j.animal.2025.101622. Epub 2025 Aug 19.PMID: 40953555 Free article.

Temperatures of the Mouthpiece of the Bit of Carriage Horses over a Period of 11 Months. Krcal C, Licka T.Animals (Basel). 2025 Sep 7;15(17):2623. doi: 10.3390/ani15172623.PMID: 40941418 Free PMC article.

The Effect of Girth Design and Girth Tension on Saddle-Horse Pressures and Forelimb Stride Kinematics in Rising Trot. Marlin D, Randell O, Mayhew E, Blake R.Animals (Basel). 2025 Aug 29;15(17):2540. doi: 10.3390/ani15172540.PMID: 40941335 Free PMC article.

Effects of sand, asphalt, and a three degrees hind toe or heel elevation on equine cervical and thoracolumbosacral kinematics at walk and trot. Caure S, Miljak K, Dendaw P, Thesée L, Villedey E, Malinvaud A, Cousty M, Prié V, Horan K, Weller R.J Equine Vet Sci. 2025 Sep 4;154:105697. doi: 10.1016/j.jevs.2025.105697. Online ahead of print.

Technologies for equine welfare and performance monitoring under field conditions – Where do we stand? Aarts RM, Siegers EW, Serra Braganca FM, van Weeren PR.Equine Vet J. 2025 Sep 6. doi: 10.1111/evj.70092. Online ahead of print.

How prior racing performance influences competition level in off-the-track Thoroughbred horses‘ post-racing eventing careers. Bacon EK, Parnell D, Muscatello G, McElroy J, Velie BD.J Equine Vet Sci. 2025 Sep 1;154:105679. doi: 10.1016/j.jevs.2025.105679. Online ahead of print.

Does Muscle Development of Sport Horses Using Water Treadmill Exercise as Part of a Long-Term Training Programme Differ from That of Horses Not Using Water Treadmill Exercise? Tranquille C, Nankervis K, Tacey J, Hopkins E, Deckers I, Walker V, MacKechnie-Guire R, Newton R, Murray R.Animals (Basel). 2025 Aug 19;15(16):2426. doi: 10.3390/ani15162426.PMID: 40867754 Free PMC article.

Comparison of Gait Characteristics for Horses Without Shoes, with Steel Shoes, and with Aluminum Shoes. Gottleib K, Trager-Burns L, Santonastaso A, Bogers S, Werre S, Burns T, Byron C.Animals (Basel). 2025 Aug 13;15(16):2376. doi: 10.3390/ani15162376.PMID: 40867705 Free PMC article.

Ultrasound-Guided Radiofrequency Ablation and Pulsed Radiofrequency Treatment for Chronic Lameness Due to Distal Forelimb Disease in Horses: A Pilot Study. Amari M, Brioschi FA, Auletta L, Ravasio G.Animals (Basel). 2025 Aug 10;15(16):2341. doi: 10.3390/ani15162341.PMID: 40867669 Free PMC article.

Response to comments on: Noseband type and tightness level affect pressure on the horse’s face at trot. MacKechnie-Guire R, Murray R, Williams JM, Nixon J, Fisher M, Fisher D, Walker V, Pierard M, Clayton HM.Equine Vet J. 2025 Nov;57(6):1719-1724. doi: 10.1111/evj.70085. Epub 2025 Aug 29.PMID: 40878690 No abstract available.

Morphometric characteristics of quarter horses in barrel racing events: impacts on performance and competitive success. Freitag GP, de Lima LGF, Kozicki LE, Souza FA, Nogueira E, Ribeiro LB.J Equine Vet Sci. 2025 Oct;153:105676. doi: 10.1016/j.jevs.2025.105676. Epub 2025 Aug 16.

A Markerless Approach for Full-Body Biomechanics of Horses. Shaffer SK, Medjaouri O, Swenson B, Eliason T, Nicolella DP.Animals (Basel). 2025 Aug 5;15(15):2281. doi: 10.3390/ani15152281.PMID: 40805071 Free PMC article.

An Ultrasound-Guided Thoracolumbar Erector Spinae Plane Block: An Experimental Preliminary Study in Horses. Medina-Bautista F, Nocera I, Sánchez de Medina A, Di Franco C, Briganti A, Morgaz J, Granados MDM.Animals (Basel). 2025 Aug 1;15(15):2264. doi: 10.3390/ani15152264.PMID: 40805053 Free PMC article.

Clinical Effectiveness of Dry Needling on Myofascial Trigger Points in Horses: A Prospective Algometric Controlled Study. Calatayud-Bonilla M, Carmona JU, Prades M.Animals (Basel). 2025 Jul 27;15(15):2207. doi: 10.3390/ani15152207.PMID: 40804997 Free PMC article.

alpha2-Macroglobulin Concentrations in Canine and Equine Serum Donors. Zimmerman KL, Diehl KA.Vet Ophthalmol. 2025 Aug 4. doi: 10.1111/vop.70057. Online ahead of print.

Evaluation of water treadmill training, lunging and treadmill training in the rehabilitation of horses with back pain. Geiger T, Lindenhahn L, Delarocque J, Geburek F.BMC Vet Res. 2025 Jul 29;21(1):495. doi: 10.1186/s12917-025-04950-2.PMID: 40731015 Free PMC article.

Using an Equine Cadaver Head to Investigate Associations Between Sub-Noseband Space, Noseband Tension, and Sub-Noseband Pressure at Three Locations. Doherty O, Conway R, McGreevy P.Animals (Basel). 2025 Jul 19;15(14):2141. doi: 10.3390/ani15142141.PMID: 40723604 Free PMC article.

Tight nosebands apply high pressures on the horses‘ face and alter stride kinematics. Hopkins E, Whitrod S, Marlin D, Blake R.J Equine Vet Sci. 2025 Sep;152:105654. doi: 10.1016/j.jevs.2025.105654. Epub 2025 Jul 19.

Welfare

Owners’ everyday interactions with their horse: Pain-related issues and those of veterinary concern. Smith R, Perkins L, Pinchbeck G, Ireland J.Anim Welf. 2025 Sep 17;34:e62. doi: 10.1017/awf.2025.10036. eCollection 2025.PMID: 40988863 Free PMC article.

Efficacy and welfare effects of different forms of physical restraint for upper airway endoscopy of horses. O’Brien C, Simon O, Franklin SH, Ferlini Agne G, Weaver S, Raidal SL.Equine Vet J. 2025 Sep 8. doi: 10.1111/evj.70081. Online ahead of print.

Stable microclimates and autonomic modulation in horses housed in different stable architectures during monsoon in a tropical environment. Poochipakorn C, Sanigavatee K, Leelehapongsathon K, Wonghanchao T, Chanda M.J Equine Vet Sci. 2025 Sep 1;154:105685. doi: 10.1016/j.jevs.2025.105685. Online ahead of print.

Horse vision through two lenses: Tinbergen’s Four Questions and the Five Domains. Roth LSV, McGreevy P.Front Vet Sci. 2025 Aug 14;12:1647911. doi: 10.3389/fvets.2025.1647911. eCollection 2025.PMID: 40895790 Free PMC article. Review.

First night effect alters occipital brain connectivity in horses. Bergeler J, Liske-Schmitz A, Schmitz T, de Camp NV.Sci Rep. 2025 Aug 17;15(1):30075. doi: 10.1038/s41598-025-14830-2.PMID: 40820082 Free PMC article.

Cannabinoid Receptors in the Horse Lateral Nucleus of the Amygdala: A Potential Target for Ameliorating Pain Perception, Stress and Anxiety in Horses. Bombardi C, Salamanca G, Tagliavia C, Grandis A, Zamith Cunha R, Gramenzi A, De Silva M, Zannoni A, Chiocchetti R.Int J Mol Sci. 2025 Aug 6;26(15):7613. doi: 10.3390/ijms26157613.PMID: 40806746 Free PMC article.

“But my horse is well cared for”: A qualitative exploration of cognitive dissonance and enculturation in equestrian attitudes toward performance horses and their welfare. Cheung E, Mills D, Ventura BA.Anim Welf. 2025 Jul 24;34:e50. doi: 10.1017/awf.2025.10028. eCollection 2025.PMID: 40735428 Free PMC article.

Ontario equine disease surveillance summary

Equine disease surveillance in Ontario is a collaborative effort involving many public and private stakeholders. Diagnostic results generated by veterinary laboratories, clinical impression and case data provided by equine veterinarians, disease detections reported outside of Ontario by independent organizations, vector surveillance conducted by human health agencies, and research projects facilitated by Academic institutions or the Ontario Animal Health Network (OAHN), are all key sources of surveillance data. Strong communication between these stakeholders and with horse owners and caretakers supports both equine and human health in Ontario.

Please follow the links in the summary above for additional information on the associated activities or organizations and for many resources useful to equine industry members.

ResearchONequine.ca is a website developed by the Ontario Animal Health Network equine network to help increase research awareness and to connect researchers from academia, industry and government with the ultimate goal of improving the lives of all equines. It was supported by OAHN and the Ontario Association of Equine Practitioners.