PG . 48
AQHA HORSE HEALTH
dangerous for horses at risk of laminitis . Sugar content falls overnight , being lowest before sunrise and the safest time to allow pasture access is between 3am and 11am .
POISONINGS : perennial rye grass and paspalum can both become sources of toxins during wet times and especially in late summer and autumn . Fungal grwoths on the grass produce a toxin that protects the plant from insects and helps with establishment , but also interferes with the nervous system of sheep cattle and horses . Signs can appear within 7 – 14 days of the eating toxic pasture .
Phalaris staggers is a common syndrome that occurs when horses eat green , actively growing phalaris at a time when it contains toxic alkaloids . If you ’ ve had significant summer rainfall and the phalaris is growing rapidly , your horses could be at risk . And although there is much marketing excitement surrounding mycotoxins , they are thankfully extremely uncommon in Australian pastures .
Your veterinarian is familiar with your local area and the common diseases . Discuss with your vet the risks for your property .
Infections :
Ross River , Kunjin viruses and melioidosis are some of the more serious challenges – especially in tropical and subtropical regions , including northern Australia .
Melioidosis is most likely to occur following heaving rainfall and affects many animals , including horses and humans . Signs of infection include depression , weight loss , lameness , swollen joints , mild colic , diarrhoea , coughing , nasal discharge and fever .
Importantly these signs also occur with Hendra virus and any horse with a fever - especially in Queensland and northern NSW has the potential to be a horse infected with the deadly Hendra Virus if not vaccinated .
Finally , if you have a horse or livestock caught in floodwater , call the SES , state agriculture department or local veterinarian . Specialised equipment is often required to rescue them . Keep safe .
* https :// agrifutures . com . au / product / plants-poisonousto-horses-an-australian-field-guide /
DISCLAIMER : © Jenquine © JULY 2022 All content provided in this editorial is for general use and information only and does not constitute advice or a veterinary opinion . It is not intended as specific medical advice or opinion and should not be relied on in place of consultation with your equine veterinarian .
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