Vaccination Time - Keep Your Horses Healthy

As the cold weather moves in, it’s time to think about fall vaccines to protect your horses. Below is a list of our recommended vaccinations and a brief summary of the diseases they help to prevent. Please contact us with any questions!

Potomac Horse Fever

Potomac Horse Fever (PHF) is caused by a bacterial organism (Neorickettsia risticii). This bacteria lives inside a fluke which resides within aquatic insects during the immature stages and within snails during the adult stages. The primary mode of infection in horses is likely by accidental ingestion of infected  insects or snails that contaminate grass, hay or feed. PHF most commonly causes acute-onset fever, colic, anorexia, diarrhea, and/or  laminitis. Horses that are vaccinated for Potomac Horse Fever may still show signs, but are usually less severely affected and have a better response to treatment, resulting in more favorable prognosis for survival. Treatment for PHF is with an intravenous antibiotic (oxytetracycline) and is usually most successful when started early in the course of infection. 

Rhino

Equine herpesvirus (also known as rhino, EHV or rhinopneumonitis) is caused by a virus (equine herpesvirus-1 or equine herpesvirus-4). Signs of respiratory infection vary based on type and strain of virus, but may include fever, lethargy, anorexia, nasal discharge and cough.  Vaccination is indicated to reduce severity of illness and help prevent the spread of respiratory tract disease, particularly show horses or racehorses that travel. EHV-1 can also cause abortions and neurologic signs, so pregnant mares and horses exposed to pregnant mares should be vaccinated. Unfortunately, currently available vaccines have not been shown to provide reliable protection against the neurologic form of the disease.  Some protection is, however, likely to be provided by appropriate vaccination.  There is no specific treatment for these diseases and locations where horses are identified with the neurologic form of EHV-1 must undergo strict quarantine measures . 

Recent information on disease prevalence and outbreaks can be found at: http://www.aphis.usda.gov/vs/nahss/equine/ehv/index.htm.

Flu

Equine influenza virus (the flu) is also called by a virus (orthomyxovirus). The virus is easily aerosolized by respiratory secretions and is transmitted by direct contact or inhalation. It is highly contagious in unvaccinated individuals and causes destruction of the cells lining the respiratory tract, which can take up to 3-4 weeks to fully repair.  Clinical signs can include nasal discharge, cough, increased respiratory rate, lethargy, poor appetite, exercise intolerance, and fever. There is no specific treatment other than supportive care and rest. The virus affects all ages of horses, although clinical signs are often more mild in older horses.  It has a short incubation time of only a few days, and can cause an isolated case or an outbreak of an entire barn. The immunity following vaccination is short-lived, consequently it is important to vaccinate every 6 months or sooner in high risk situations. 

EWE (Eastern and Western Equine Encephalitis)

Eastern Equine Encephalitis (EEE) and Western Equine Encephalitis (WEE) are caused by viruses that lives in a bird-mosquito life cycle (and occasionally rodents). Transmission to horses usually occurs by mosquito bites. Signs of infection are neurologic abnormalities such as stumbling, head-pressing, loss of balance, circling, depression, and abnormal gait. Infected horses typically have a fever and abnormal bloodwork (low white blood cell count). EEE has a high potential to be deadly in unvaccinated horses. There is no treatment for these diseases aside from supportive care. Available vaccines for both diseases have been proven to be very effective for disease prevention.  Both of these viruses can affect humans, causing similar signs as seen in horses, however transmission from horse to human has not been proven. 

Information on disease prevalence and outbreaks is located here: http://www.aphis.usda.gov/vs/nahss/equine/ee/index.htm.

West Nile Virus 

West Nile Virus (WNV) is cause by a virus that lives in a bird-mosquito life cycle. Signs of disease include fever and neurologic abnormalities such as trembling, head-pressing, circling, instability, abnormal gait, visual difficulty, and inability to swallow. There is no treatment for this disease aside from supportive care and this disease can be fatal. While humans can be infected with this disease, there is no direct horse-human transmission. Recent information on disease prevalence and outbreaks can be found at: 

http://www.aphis.usda.gov/vs/nahss/equine/wnv/index.htm.

To find more information on the vaccines discussed here as well as several other available vaccines, check out AAEP (American Association of Equine Practitioners) page: http://www.aaep.org/vaccinations_campaign.htm.

PRO BAREBACK SHOW JUMPING CHALLENGE TO BE FEATURED AT DANSKO FAIR HILL INTERNATIONAL FESTIVAL IN THE COUNTRY

ELKTON, MD – A new feature class will make it debut this year at the Dansko Fair Hill International Festival In The Country, October 18-21^st in Elkton, Maryland. The PRO Bare Back Show Jumping Challenge presented by Zurich Insurance, BW Furlong & Associates and Furlong’s Healthy Horse will challenge some of the nation’s top riders to jump without saddles.  The 3’3” course, designed by Sally Ike, will be run as a speed class and include an optional ‘joker fence’ set at 3’6” for riders who choose to tempt fate and gain an advantage to win.  A prize purse of $2,000 is available thanks to the generous support of the co-presenting sponsors.

This is the first time that this type of challenge has been organized at Fair Hill: “We’ve had a lot of fun putting on the Shetland Pony Races for the last couple of years, but we thought it was time for a change,” said Samantha Lendl, executive director of PRO, “We organize the Bare Back Puissance at Plantation Field International which has grown incredibly popular and has established a real following and we hope to have the Bareback Show Jumping Challenge bring the same sort of excitement to the Dansko Fair Hill International Festival in the Country.”

The PRO Bareback Show Jumping Challenge will take place on Sunday, October 21^st at the lunch break just prior to the CCI*** show jumping, which is the USEF Fall CCI*** National Championship and also a part of the 2012 PRO Tour Series. It will feature event riders Laine Ashker, Doug Payne, Danny Warrington, Dom Schramm

The Dansko Fair Hill International Festival in the Country has a wide variety of activities throughout the weekend for families and spectators to enjoy as well as a well as the Country Shops trade fair. Some of the weekend highlights are:

Thursday, October 18^th

CCI*** and CCI** Competitions Starts (throughout the weekend)

USEA Young Event Horse Championships (through Friday)

Country Shops Open (throughout the weekend)

Friday, October 19^th 

Dog Agility Demonstrations and Lessons (throughout the weekend)

Coon Jump Demo

US Pony Club Cross-Country Course Walk with Sharon White

Saturday, October 20^th

Kids Corner Open (throughout the weekend)

Frisbee Dog Competitions and Flyball Demonstration

Miniature Horse Demonstration (through Sunday)

US Pony Clubs Senior President’s Cup Games (through Sunday)

Silly Goose and Val Live Music and Puppet Show

The Art and Sport of Falconry with Live Birds of Prey

Horse Play – A play about horses through history

PRO Rider Autograph Sessions

Tailgating (must purchase tailgating tickets)

Sunday, October 21^st

Classic Cars

Sled Dog Demonstration

Mr. Ronn Live Music

PRO Bareback Show Jumping Challenge

CCI*** Stadium Jumping Course Walk with Sally Ike

Admission for children under 12, Pony Club Members with Pin, 4-H Members with ID and Military Members and their dependents with ID is free. To purchase tickets and directions, please visit http://www.fairhillinternational.com/attendance

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Olympic Q&A with Dr. Furlong

This will be Dr. Brendan Furlong’s fifth and last Olympic Games. He evaluated the U.S. Eventing Team Horses on Monday, July 2nd following the Mandatory Outing at Barbury Castle. Below he talks about the process of being a veterinarian for some of the world’s nicest horses at the Olympic Games.

1. What is the evaluation process for the Eventing Team before a Championship team is named?

The evaluation is not unlike a pre-purchase exam. It is fairly standardized prior to a championship, it includes (at least) two members of the vet panel who perform:

• A physical exam (heart, lungs, skeletal, basic parameters).
• A soundness evaluation (includes walking and jogging horse on a hard surface, lunging, soft tissue palpation, flexion tests). Then we do ultrasound of front limbs, and may take x rays or do more in depth diagnostics if our soundness evaluation gives us reason to look at certain areas more closes. 
• A full drug screen on these horses at the time of evaluation.
• Any additional diagnostics if and when appropriate.

Our job is to give the USEF selectors as much information as we can about the usefulness of a horse on a team in terms of soundness and the likeliness of it to finish the competition. You can have the five best horses in the world and if three are relatively unsound it decreases the chances to finish a team. If you don’t have three that can trot up, as the vet, you haven’t done your job to the best of your ability. The primary goals for the veterinary panel are to have a team that can finish and win medals. 

2. What is the hardest part of your job as the Team Veterinarian?

The hardest part of the process this year was knowing we had 10 or 12 really nice horses and, because of that, we knew we were going to have some very happy people and some really devastated people. They have all worked really hard and done what they are meant to do. Last week after I evaluated those horses, I drove back to Heathrow on Monday and I was gutted for those who weren’t named to the team. But we all had to regroup, and now we have to put our entire sport behind our team and make sure they have every chance possible and every resource possible to ensure that they can perform to their personal best. 

3. What happens next for you?

Wendy (Leich) and I are on our way to watch our son, Jonny row in the Under - 23 World Championships in Lithuania. Its an amazing thing for me, my kid is off to be an elite athlete.

But, I’m on the phone with  Dr. PJ McMahon (who is based in the UK), constantly - probably 15 times today. PJ is my eyes and ears when I’m not there - that’s the way it is set up. We keep an incredibly close eye on these horses and they may have minor treatments, its a great comfort to the riders. And that is  part of our job now, keeping the riders happy. They have to feel they have nothing to worry about except competing the horse, the best thing I can tell a rider is, “You don’t worry about your horse - your horse is absolutely fine.” 

I go to the UK on July 21st, then we observe all the horses after the last gallop - make sure they are all good to go. We then move into the Olympic site. We keep a close eye on the horses before they trot up. Once we finish the trot up we breathe a huge collective sigh of relief.  But then it becomes tense again fairly quickly before the dressage. Wendy will be busy, as she is very good at doing acupuncture - which helps these horses relax. 

4. What is the best part of your job?

This is the Olympic Games - at Rolex for example, it is all about individuals. The prize at Rolex is huge, but this is an opportunity for a team - the whole thing about the Oympics is TEAM first, then if we have someone in the hunt for the individual we put it all our efforts behind them.  

5. Any outstanding Olympic memories?

I remember my first Olympics (in 1996), I was so terrified about the process and I spent a lot of the time wondering if I was capable. We won a Team SIlver and when David (O’Connor) won individual Gold in Sydney - that was incredible and something I will never forget. They're all special. I’m going to be part of the support team for an Olympic team -  I have to pinch myself - I'm a farmer’s son from Ireland. Its still a big deal and fortunately I have a great crew at the practice behind me and Wendy and the kids. It feels like it is coming full circle with Jonny off to do something for his country now too. 

Taking Flight... with our Olympic Horses

By Dr. Sarah Gold

When I mention to clients, family, and friends that I just returned from flying the Land Rover US Eventing Team to London for the Olympic Games, the number one question I get is “How do you fly a horse?” Answer: In cargo.

Cargo, other than leaving at odd times in the morning, is a great way to travel.  No other passengers to deal with, lots of room to move around and sometimes you even get your own first class section or bed, depending on the type of plane you are on.   In my experience, horses actually ship better in the air than on the road.  One of the biggest reasons for that is that you avoid the “stop-go-stop-go” of traffic, and the bumps on the road.  When horses feel the truck stop on the road, they can often get antsy, wondering if they have arrived.  On a plane, there is just one loud noise at the beginning, one at the end, and relatively few bumps along the way when compared to road travel.  

I have also been fortunate in that my four-legged travel companions are well-travelled, and quite frankly, often exhausted by the time they get on the plane.  Shipping horses can be a long process, with pre-export quarantining, and road travel to the airport.  And usually these horses have been in active competition prior to travel.  So, much like the overworked business man that is lulled to sleep when the plane engines turn on, these horses tend to settle quickly and prefer to be left to doze, no sedation required.  Of course we come through with the snacks and drinks cart – well, water buckets and any feed, treats, or medications that they need- but I often get the impression that the horses prefer each other’s company, and would rather I leave them to rest.  Pilots in charge of these enormous cargo planes are often sympathetic to the horses as well, and will inquire as to how they would prefer the temperature, and go through great efforts to have a smooth take-off and landing for the horses.   And ear popping during descent does not seem to be an issue.

 

Medically speaking, with a healthy performance horse, there is not usually a lot that needs to be done to prepare for flight, other than ensuring that the horse is hydrated and healthy prior to leaving.  Depending on the length of the flight, and how well the horse drinks, fluids may be administered, either via a nasogastric tube (NGT) or through an IV catheter.  NGT fluid administration is usually water with some electrolytes added, and while all horses resent being tubed, the procedure is over relatively quickly (less than 5 minutes), and the fluids are delivered directly to the GI tract.  This means that if the horse needs the fluids, he can draw them naturally through his gut walls, and if not, the fluids will just pass through, potentially aiding the passing of feed.  With IV fluids, greater amounts of fluids can be administered which go directly into the blood circulation, but the horse has to remain tied for a few hours, and often winds up having to urinate quite a bit.  So I do recommend that we begin the process of IV fluids, if indicated, much earlier, so the horses do not wind up having to stand around a soaked trailer or cargo palate.  Other than fluids, most competition horses are on some form of gastro-protectant, like gastrogard or ulcergard, which should be continued in the face of travel.  

If you are planning air travel for you horse, or any extensive ground travel, do not hesitate to contact us with any questions prior to shipping. Every horse is an individual, and, like people, some travel better than others.  As for myself, I have definitely developed a taste for traveling via my own private cargo plane, with the companionship of some four-legged Olympic athletes to keep me company.

Labor of Love: Pam Wildman Welcomes Mango

Our client, Pam Wildman has struggled to get her lovely mare Denmark in foal. We lent her our expertise and a little bit of Irish luck and 380 days later 'Mango' was born at Shelbourne Farm. Mango is by Maximus, a German Warmblood, (Mynos/Coralie (Cor de la Bryere) out of Denmark, a Danish Warmblood, (A-Dur - Argentinus son /Maika). 

From Pam: 

Denmark was a top show hunter until she had a career ending injury at the age of 11. We unsuccessfully tried breeding her for 3 years prior to moving her to Shelbourne Farm. We decided to try changing stallions and to breed her to Emil Spadone's younger very promising stallion, Maximus. 

It was a labor of love to get this mare in foal. Dr. Gray followed her ovulation carefully and she and Dr. Leitch inseminated her on consecutive days. Dr. Brendan Furlong called to tell me that he has an Irish superstition where you must come bless your mare after she is inseminated to give her luck, it worked!  She took on the first try!  Dr. Gray followed her pregnancy very carefully, Dr. Gardner ultrasounded her when she was so late. Mango was finally born on May 14th after 380 days!! 

Dr. Gray and the entire Furlong team never gave up hope. We rebred Denmark to Maximus again a few weeks ago, once again she took on the first try. Mango will have a full sibling next May. 

Boyd Martin and Crackerjack Win the First Half of the BW Furlong and Associates High Performance Challenge at the 2012 Jersey Fresh CCI

Oldwick, NJ - Less than a month after the Jersey Fresh CCI at the Horse Park of New Jersey, the winner of the first half of the BW Furlong and Associates High Performance Challenge is already thinking about the 2013 Event.

Boyd Martin rode Crackerjack to a stirring victory in the CCI2* finishing on his dressage score of 48.5. They led the competition from start to finish. If the pair can repeat the winning effort in 2013 in the CCI3* - they would take home a $25,000 bonus for winning the BW Furlong and Associates High Performance Challenge. 

Boyd Martin and Crackerjack

"Over the years, event riders pour money into these great veterinary clinics, like Brendan's, to keep these horses on the road," said Martin. "It's great that Brendan is offering us the chance to get some of that back."

Martin (Cochranville, PA), a member of the 2010 Land Rover US Eventing Team at the Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games, has been producing Crackerjack from the Preliminary level. Martin says the horse reminds him of one of his Olympic contenders, the famed Neville Bardos, with his feisty attitude and bold nature. 

"I don't like my chances of hanging on to my $25,000 with Boyd in the running," said Furlong. "He is a fierce competitor on a good horse plus when there's that much money at stake he will give it his all. Stay tuned - it will be exciting."

Crackerjack was formerly ridden by Colin Davidson who died in a car accident in 2010. His mother, Lucy Boynton Lie, continues to campaign the horse in the name of her late son.

Started in 2011 by Dr. Brendan Furlong, who heads to his fifth Olympic Games as the Land Rover US Eventing Team Veterinarian, the BW Furlong High Performance Challenge was established to promote the sport of eventing at the Horse Park of New Jersey. It will be awarded to a horse-and-rider combination that wins the Jersey Fresh CCI2* and then the CCI3* the following year.

LEGEND Users Don't Miss Major Savings

Furlong's Healthy Horse is offering major online savings to our clients on one of the most popular products we sell.

Legend   

$200 Off Legend (Trainer Rebate) Receive a $200 manufacturer rebate any time you buy 30 doses of Legend from your veterinarian. Simply mail in the rebate form, along with receipt from Furlong's Healthy Horse, and receive a $200 check within 6 to 8 weeks. Limit one rebate per qualifying purchases per household.

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Limit one rebate per qualifying purchases per household. Please log on to Furlong's Healthy Horse: https://furlongshealthyhorse.com to order your Legend today.

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This offer runs until December 31, 2012.

Colleagues and Friends Gather in Wellington to Honor Dr. John Steele's Dedication to the Horse Industry

Oldwick, NJ - At 86 years old, Dr. John Steele's influence on the equine industry is profound. Still an actively practicing veterinarian and enjoying his work - Dr. Steele was surprised by his colleagues and friends at a dinner hosted in his honor on Monday, March 19. 
"When I was thinking about organizing this at Christmas, we were having a family discussion about it and my youngest son said, I should give him a lifetime of inspiration award," said Dr. Furlong. "He has been a tremendous inspiration."

Dr. Brendan Furlong, Dr. John Steele and Dr. Ben Schachter (photo courtesy of Dr. Sarah Gold)

Dr. Brendan Furlong, Dr. Kit Miller and Dr. Steve Soule invited a group of people who have been influenced by Dr. Steele to the dinner. Having spent more than 60 years in the industry making a guest list was a large undertaking. A small group of Dr. Steele's colleagues and former and present employees recognized the influence he has had on their careers and the horse industry at Dr. Miller's home in the Palm Beach Polo Club. Dr. Furlong and Dr. Steele both spoke. "Dr. Steele spoke about the what a wonderful experience it has been to be able to devote his life to horses and horse people," said Furlong. It was an emotional night, one filled with stories of a career that has spanned the better part of a century. 

ENDS

Get Ready for the Jersey Fresh CCI and CIC Featuring the B.W. Furlong High Performance Challenge

Oldwick, NJ - After another successful Rolex Kentucky CCI4* presented by Bridgestone, where Peak Performance client Karen O’Connor jump to fourth place with Mr. Medicott, the attention of B.W. Furlong and Associates now turns to the next Selection Trial for the Land Rover U.S. Eventing Team: the 2012 Jersey Fresh CCI and CIC. The 10th edition of the event runs May 10-13, please visit: http://www.horseparkofnewjersey.com/ for more information including details about tailgating. 

Several top combinations, including our clients Buck Davidson (who has been on the injured reserve with a broken collarbone this spring) and BallyNoe Castle RM (owned by Carl and Cassie Segal) will be contesting the CCI3*. Sinead Halpin will contest the CIC3* with her top Olympic hopeful, Manior De Carneville.

The CCI2* will give horses and riders a chance to become eligible for the Jersey Fresh "High Performance Challenge". Sponsored by B.W. Furlong and Associates, $25,000 will be awarded to the horse and rider combination that wins the Jersey Fresh CCI2* in 2012 and goes on to win the Jersey Fresh CCI3* in 2013. The cash prize will be split between the rider and the owner.

Started last year by Dr. Brendan Furlong, the CCI2* winner in 2011 was Lisa Marie Ferguson and Smart Move. Devastatingly Smart Move was killed in an accident on the road after he got loose in Wellington, FL and was hit by a car. In his honor, B.W. Furlong and Associates will plant a tree at the New Jersey Horse Park to commemorate this wonderful horse.

B.W. Furlong and Associates will also provide treating veterinary services for the competition, and make sure to visit the Furlong’s Healthy Horse booth to learn about exciting, cost saving opportunities for our clients. Breakfast and refreshments will be served for grooms and riders in the same place as previous years, in the B.W. Furlong and Associates tent just outside the stabling compound.

Immunizations: Protect Your Horse Against Infectious Diseases

Brought to you by: Bayer Healthcare, an AAEP Educational Partner

Few things will protect your horse from the ravages of disease as easily and effectively as immunizations. The vaccines administered by your veterinarian to your horse place a protective barrier between the animal and a whole list of problems: tetanus, encephalomyelitis (sleeping sickness), influenza, rhinopneumonitis, rabies, strangles, West Nile virus and Potomac Horse Fever, to name the most common.

What to Expect 

A good immunization program is essential to responsible horse ownership, but just as in humans, vaccination does not guarantee 100% protection. In some situations, immunization may decrease the severity of disease but not prevent it completely. This is due to many complicated scientific reasons, such as differences in the virulence or severity of some diseases (such as influenza).

Vaccination involves the injection (with a sterile syringe and needle) of bacteria or viruses that are inactivated or modified to avoid causing actual disease in the horse. Recently, intranasal vaccinations have been developed for immunization against influenza and strangles. Two or more doses are usually needed to initiate an adequate immune response.

Once the immunization procedure is completed, the protective antibodies in the blood stand guard against the invasion of specific disease causing organisms. Over time, however, these antibodies gradually decline. Therefore, a second vaccination is required to boost immunity to acceptable levels. Protection against some disease causing organisms such as tetanus and rabies can be accomplished by boostering once a year. Others require more frequent intervals to provide adequate protection.

Vaccinations Needed

The specific immunizations needed by a particular horse or  horses depend upon several factors: environment, age, use, exposure risk, geographic location and general management. Your local equine veterinary practitioner can help you determine the vaccination program best suited to your horse’s individual needs.

 The following diseases are those most often vaccinated against. Again, your local veterinarian will know what is best for your horse.

Tetanus. Sometimes called “lockjaw,” tetanus is caused by toxin-producing bacteria present in the intestinal tract of many animals and found in abundance in the soil where horses live. Its spores can exist for years. The spores enter the body through wounds, lacerations or the umbilicus of newborn foals. Therefore, although not contagious from horse to horse, tetanus poses a constant threat to horses and humans alike. 

Symptoms include muscle stiffness and rigidity, flared nostrils, hypersensitivity, prolapsed third eyelid and the legs stiffly held in a sawhorse stance. As the disease progresses, muscles in the jaw and face stiffen, preventing the animal from eating or drinking. More than 80% of affected horses die.

 All horses should be immunized annually against tetanus. Additional boosters for mares and foals may be recommended by your veterinarian. Available vaccines are inexpensive, safe and provide good protection.

Encephalomyelitis.  More commonly known as “sleeping sickness,” this disease is caused by the Western Equine Encephalomyelitis (WEE) virus or the Eastern version (EEE). WEE has been noted throughout North America, while EEE appears only in the East and Southeast. VEE, the Venezuelan variety, has not been seen in the United States for many years (however, a recent outbreak of VEE occurred in Mexico). Sleeping sickness is most often transmitted by mosquitoes after the insects have acquired the virus from birds and rodents. Humans also are susceptible when bitten by an infected mosquito, but direct horse-to-horse or horse-to-human transmission is very rare.

Symptoms vary widely, but all result from the inflammation of the brain. Early signs include fever, depression and appetite loss. Later, a horse might stagger when it walks, and paralysis develops in later stages. About 20%–50% of horses infected with WEE die, and the death rate is 75%–100% of animals infected with EEE. The mortality rate for VEE is 40%–80%. 

All horses need an EEE and WEE vaccine at least annually. Pregnant mares and foals may require additional vaccinations. The best time to vaccinate is one month before mosquitoes become active. In the South and West, it may be recommended that your horse be vaccinated more often than annually. Be sure to consult your veterinarian for the recommendations in your area.

Rabies. A frightening disease, which is more common in some areas than others. Horses are infected infrequently, but death always occurs. Rabies can be transmitted from horses to humans.

West Nile virus (WNV). A neurological disease that affects horses throughout the continental United States and is transmitted through the bite of an infected mosquito. States with more persistent mosquito populations may require more aggressive vaccinations along with aggressive mosquito control techniques. Follow your veterinarian’s recommendations.

Other Disease Threats

Several other diseases are common, although the need for vaccination against them is a highly individual one.  Rely on your veterinarian to guide you.

Other diseases include:

Rhinopneumonitis. Two distinct viruses, equine herpesvirus type 1 (EHV-1) and equine herpesvirus type 4 (EHV-4), cause two different diseases, both of which are known as rhinopneumonitis. Both cause respiratory tract problems, and EHV-1 may also cause abortion, foal death and neurological signs, which may eventually cause paralysis. Infected horses may be feverish and lethargic as well as lose appetite and experience nasal discharge and a cough. Young horses suffer most from respiratory tract infections and may develop pneumonia secondary to EHV-1.

Rhinopneumonitis is spread by aerosol and by direct contact with secretions, utensils or drinking water. The virus may be present but inapparent in carrier animals. All pregnant mares must be immunized. Foals, weanlings, yearlings and young horses under stress should also be vaccinated. Immune protection is short. Therefore, pregnant mares are vaccinated at a minimum during the fifth, seventh and ninth months of gestation, and youngsters at high risk need a booster at least every six months. Some horses may require more frequent vaccinations depending on disease risks.

Influenza. This is one of the most common respiratory diseases in the horse. Highly contagious, the virus can be transmitted by aerosol from horse to horse over distances as far as 30 yards (for example, by snorting or coughing). 

Signs to watch for are similar to those in a human with a cold (i.e., dry cough, nasal discharge, fever, depression and loss of appetite). With proper care, most horses recover in about 10 days. Some, however, may show symptoms for weeks, especially if put back to work too soon. Influenza is not only expensive to treat, but results in a lot of “down time” and indirect financial loss, not to mention discomfort to your horse. 

Unfortunately, influenza viruses constantly change in an effort to bypass the horse’s immune defense. Therefore, duration of protection is short-lived and revaccination is recommended every six months. Some horses may require more frequent vaccinations depending on disease risks.

Not all horses need influenza vaccinations. However, animals that travel or are exposed to other horses should be regularly immunized against influenza. Follow your veterinarian’s advice as to whether your horse needs an influenza vaccine.

Strangles. A highly contagious and rarely fatal disease. There may be some side effects associated with vaccination; therefore, it is important to discuss the risks versus benefits of vaccination with your veterinarian.

Botulism. Known as “shaker foal syndrome” in young horses, this disease can be serious. Botulism in adult horses, “forage poisoning,” can also be fatal. Vaccines are not available for all types of botulism, but pregnant mares can be vaccinated in endemic areas.

Equine viral arteritis (EVA). A complicated disease that can result in some breeding restrictions and export problems. Follow your veterinarian’s recommendations.

Potomac Horse Fever. A seasonal problem with geographic  factors. The mortality rate varies from 5%-30%. Contact your veterinarian. 

Many combination vaccinations are available. Please check with your local equine practitioner.

Appropriate vaccinations are the best and most cost-effective weapon you have against common infectious diseases of the horse.  A program designed with the help and advice of your local veterinarian will keep your horses –and you-happy and healthy for many years to come. 

Spring Vaccinations - Make your Appointment Today!

Its that time of year: Spring vaccinations! 

Due to the mild winter, we have begun administering spring vaccinations early. B.W. Furlong and Associates recommended schedule provides spring vaccinations in two visits. On the first visit, Flu/Rhino (Influenza/Rhinopneumonitis) is provided in one vaccine and EWT-WNV (Eastern Equine Encephalomyelitis, Western Equine Encephalomyelitis, Tetanus, and West Nile Virus) is provided in the second vaccine. Two weeks later, a Potomac Horse Fever/Rabies combination and Botulism vaccines are administered in two injections. 

Check out this article provided by the American Association of Equine Practitioners or give us a call at the clinic if you have any questions about your horse’s vaccination program. Don’t forget to check the expiration on your horse’s Coggins, as the spring vaccination visit is the perfect time to update! Call the office to schedule your vaccination visits today!

Four Furlongs

Many times Brendan can be found talking quickly and juggling several cases at once while Wendy is attending to a horse with Chinese medicine. But the Furlong family runs deeper than the practitioners looking after some of the best horses in the world - through the New Jersey countryside and down rivers across the country.

"Everything we do, Wendy and I in our lives, from the farming, to the horses, to fox-hunting and Wendy competing in dressage and eventing, managing the farm and running the clinic - our lives revolve around these animals and our family," said Brendan.

Brendan and Wendy at the 2008 Olympic Games

They have two boys, Adam and Jonny who are competitive and driven and share their parents' relentless pursuit of success. Though their competitive lives revolve around rowing (and triathlons) not riding - they are an integral part of a strong family unit. They also all keep each other grounded.

"Dad likes to tell people that he's never taken a day off, that's not true - he just goes fox-hunting in the morning," said Adam. Brendan is the Master of Foxhounds for the Amwell Valley Hounds when he has time and Wendy frequently serves as Field Master. 

Adam and Jonny rode growing up, fox-hunting with their parents and competing in jumping and eventing. It was in their blood and part of what they did. But Wendy encouraged them to try rowing for a year - she rowed at Cambridge University and felt that, despite their dreams to play in the NBA, rowing might suit them more than basketball. They listened to their mother and first picked up oars at the Hun School in Princeton, NJ which they attended together.

They were hooked.

Both Adam (now 24) and Jonny (now 21) rowed through high school, Adam went to Holy Cross where he continued for four more years and then moved to Philadelphia and enrolled in the Teach for America program earning a Master's degree in the process. The Schuylkill River played a major part in his decision to land in Philadelphia. He competes in Half Ironman events and is training for a Full. He is now the Vice President of Furlong's Healthy Horse - the latest innovation of B.W. Furlong and Associates.  

"I think the dream exists that we will all be part of the family business - that we'll all work together," said Adam. "They always held us to a very high standard without making it difficult for us to be kids. We were held to a very high academic standard and we followed through - to all aspects of our lives - to our friendships and athletics too."

Jonny is enrolled at the University of Virginia where he is a fourth year in the undergraduate program  double majoring in exercise physiology and psychology while simultaneously working toward his Masters in exercise physiology. He is training for the Under-23 lightweight spot on the National Team.

"I think all the time riding as a kid has proven to be extremely valuable in our more recent competitive pursuits," said Jonny. "It really ingrained a standard of excellence, and the work ethic necessary to achieve that level of performance. They're totally different sports, of course, but the road to success is essentially the same. And that also carries over to all other facets of our lives. I'd say that's the common trend for all of us: no matter what we're pursuing, it's the same approach: high standards and hard work."

As Brendan and Wendy prepare to head to their fifth Olympic Games, they also manage a practice with remote locations in Florida, run a New Jersey breeding operation, train sport horses, fox hunt whenever they can and maintain a family.

Seminar Success

On February 3rd and 4th, B.W. Furlong and Associates' New Jersey Clinic hosted its annual seminar series for veterinarians and clients respectively. 

Full House at the Seminar

Over 50 veterinarians from New Jersey, Pennsylvania and New York attended the 11th annual seminar held at Willie McBrides in Branchburg. Dr. Edward Earley, owner of Laurel Highland Veterinary Services in Williamsport, PA, spoke about Equine Dentistry and our very own Dr. Rachel Gardner shared several case presentations.

Continuing education credits were provided to the veterinarians in attendance.

On Saturday February 4th, 2012 more than 100 local clients joined us for our 11th annual Horse Health Seminar.

After breakfast at the Oldwick Fire Hall, the associate veterinarians shared presentations on colic, dentistry, rehabilitation and conditioning, case presentations on stomach ulcers and respiratory disease, nutrition and breeding. Some myths were definitely busted! 

Thank you so much to all of those that attended and a huge thank you to our sponsors. See you there in 2013!

Presentation materials from this year's client seminar will be available on our website here.

At the client Horse Health Seminar this year, Dr. Gardner organized our inaugural fundraiser for Mane Stream. Thanks to our many generous clients, we raised over $600 just in a few short hours! Mane Stream (formerly Somerset Hills Handicapped Riding Center (SHHRC)) is a non-profit registered charitable organization whose mission is to improve the quality of life for individuals with physical, developmental, emotional and medical challenges through a diverse program of equine assisted activities, equine assisted therapy and educational initiatives. Mane Stream is designated as a Premier Accredited Center of PATH - Professional Association of Therapeutic Horsemanship, International (formerly NARHA), who provides education, accreditation and resources for the equine assisted activities industry. Mane Stream is located right in Oldwick, and is constantly striving to serve the community through their equine programs, including: adaptive horsemanship, three equine assisted therapies: physical therapy, occupational therapy and speech therapy, adaptive driving and vaulting, an inclusive day camp, school and vocational programs. 

Since 1972, Mane Stream has endeavored to improve the quality of life for children and adults who are physically, emotionally and cognitively challenged by providing their diversified equestrian program. More information about Mane Stream can be found at: http://manestreaminc.org/.


Thanks to our Seminar Supporters:

Gold Medal Sponsors:Wedgewood Pharmacy, Sound Technologies, Luitpold Pharmaceuticals, Pfizer Inc.

Sliver Medal Sponsors: Boehringer Ingelheim, Merck Animal Health

Bronze Medal Sponsors: Kentucky Performance Products, Platinum Performance, Merial, Butler Schein Animal Health, Bayer Animal Health, Boothwyn Pharmacy, Inc

Supporters: Kentucky Equine Research, Horse Quencher, A Little Pet Vet, Land O'Lakes Purina Feed, Cavalor

What's New With Us?

Brendan has been in Aiken, SC and Ocala, FL getting an early season baseline on the Training Listed horses for the 2012 Land Rover US Eventing Team. He then shifts into show umping gear for the USEF Selection Trials for the U.S. Jumping Team. Following the selection trials, he’s back into eventing mode for The Fork Horse Trials and the Rolex Kentucky CCI4*in April.

The Furlongs have seven mares in foal at Shelburne Farm. The Furlongs helped to select stallions for each of the mares and facilitated their breeding last spring.  These mothers-to-be had previous jobs as show horses but are enjoying their new role in life as they prepare to raise their foals at Shelbourne Farm.

The New Jersey clinic is undergoing a modest expansion to create more space for storage and archiving, as well as to open up more work space for lameness exams and treatment.

Furlong’s Healthy Horse is off and running with Adam Furlong behind the wheel. So far it has exceeded expectations and we are looking forward to launching the new site. If you’re a client, look for major March savings in your inbox!

One of our interns, Dr. Rachel Liepman, is heading to Ohio State University for her residency in internal medicine. Dr. Jessica Stahle, who has spent a lot of time working very closely with Dr. Furlong, has accepted a radiology residency at Virginia Tech University. We will miss them both but are very excited for them.

Finally, Dr. Misty Gray has completed her animal chiropractic training at Options For Animals College of Animal Chiropractic. Following the course, Dr. Gray passed the International Veterinary Chiropractic Association (IVCA) licensing exam and is excited to offer this new service to our clients. If you have any questions about how chiropractic can help your equine companion, please contact Dr. Gray at the office.

On the Road Again

It's that time of year, everyone is traveling or getting ready to travel. Our veterinarians want your horses to arrive at their destination fit and ready. Whether that is to a lesson in an indoor down the road, or across the country for a major horse show - here are some tips to make traveling with your horses easier.

Don't leave home without it

Happy Travelers

1. Health Certificates. Legally, a current health certificate must accompany a horse when it crosses state lines. Your veterinarian will come to examine your horse to ensure that he is in good health. The information required for the Health Certificate is: an up-to-date Coggins report (for most states a Coggins test is up to date for one year), the address of the destination, and the details of who is shipping the horse. Schedule an appointment to have a veterinarian inspect your horse within 30 days of departure in New Jersey (this time frame varies in each state). Be sure to have the Coggins report and all of the required information available for your veterinarian at the time of your scheduled exam. The certificate and a Coggins report will need to accompany the shipment. In addition, it is recommended you check your horse's temperature just prior to departure to ensure that he still in good health. If his temperature is over 101.5 F prior to travel or you have any other medical concerns, he should be examined by your veterinarian prior to shipment.

2. Food and Water. While shipping, make sure to have a clean water supply large enough to last your entire trip. Horses should be offered water every 2-3 hours during extended trips and should have access to their normal amount of hay intake. Some horses will not drink well while traveling. Monitor manure production and water intake and if you notice a decrease, your horse may require additional fluid support by the veterinarian upon arrival at his final destination. If your horse has a history of poor drinking while traveling, it is most helpful to provide additional fluid therapy through a nasogastric tube or intravenous fluids prior to travel. Discuss this with your veterinarian to figure out a plan that suits your horse.

3. A First Aid Kit. Always have a first aid kit available for emergencies that may occur on the road your truck or trailer. Finding veterinary assistance in an unknown area may take longer than when you are close to home. Check out our First Aid Kit at: http://www.bwfurlongnj.com/orderkit.html


Fresh Air

While on the trailer horses are unable to lower their heads in their natural grazing position. This limits the ability to clear dirt and debris from the lungs while on the trailer. In addition, they are breathing poorly ventilated air, that includes dust from hay and bedding within the trailer and "road dirt" while traveling. Respiratory infection after shipping is not uncommon. Wetting the hay and bedding prior to travel may cut down on the dust level present within the trailer. Monitor your horse for coughing, nasal discharge, or fever after arrival and for several days at your final destination.

  

Stress Relief

  

Travel can be stressful for horses and their owners! For horses with a history of stomach ulcers or very "stressed" horses, the use of an ulcer protectant, such as Ulcergard, is recommended.  It is suggested to start treatment several days prior to travel, continuing during travel and continuing a couple of days following arrival at your destination. Your veterinarian can assist you in determining if your horse is at risk for ulcers and developing a treatment plan.

  
Immune system function during travel is very important to keeping your horse healthy on his trip. Several medications and therapies can alter the horse's immune system. Vaccines or steroids (joint injections or oral) should be avoided in the two weeks prior to travel and within the first week of arriving from a trip over 20 hours. Be sure to discuss your travel plan with your veterinarian when treating horses for any illness or injury around your scheduled trip.  

For more information or questions contact us at the clinic any time 908-439-2821. 


Safe travels to you and your horse!