2015 equine guideanimalhealthinternational.com...of age.1 although the pathophysiology differs from...
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2015 Equine Guide
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New Developments in an Old Problem:PPID DEFINEDPituitary Pars Intermedia Dysfunction (PPID), also known as Equine Cushing’s Disease, is the most common endocrine disorder inhorses. An estimated 21% of horses and ponies over the age of 15 are affected by PPID, and the prevalence increases for each yearof age.1 Although the pathophysiology differs from humans and dogs with Cushing’s, PPID is now the preferred scientific name as it specifies the exact area of the pituitary gland affected in the horse.
PPID is a chronic progressive disease. PPID causes multiple health problems for the horse, including laminitis and recurrentinfections. Ponies and Morgans are overrepresented, but all breeds and types of equids may be affected.2 Horses with a history ofEquine Metabolic Syndrome (EMS) are thought to be at higher risk of developing disease at a younger age.2
PATHOPHYSIOLOGYThe equine pituitary is divided into three regions: the pars distalis (anterior pituitary), the pars intermedia (intermediate lobe), andthe pars tuberalis (posterior pituitary). Dopaminergic neurons originating from the hypothalamus innervate and inhibit the secretoryactivity of the melanotrophs of the pars intermedia. Dopaminergic inhibition to the pars intermedia normally decreases with aging.However, degeneration of dopaminergic neurons occurs at an accelerated rate in PPID. The exact cause of degeneration is poorlyunderstood, but is thought to result from chronic oxidative damage.3 As dopaminergic inhibition decreases, melanotrophs of thepars intermedia become hyperplastic, increasing secretion of proopiomelanocortin (POMC) peptides such as α-MSH, β-endorphin,CLIP, and now ACTH, which is not normally produced in significant amounts from this region. Elevated ACTH from the intermediatelobe acts on the adrenal glands to stimulate cortisol which, along with multiple other hormones, results in the unique, individualclinical presentation of PPID. With hyperplasia of the pars intermedia, functional pituitary adenomas develop over time.
CLINICAL SIGNSHypertrichosis (previously termed hirsutism) and muscle atrophy are commonly recognized in PPID. However, a variety of non-specific clinical signs have been associated with early or advanced disease:
by Marian G. Little, DVM, Field Equine Professional Services, Boehringer Ingelheim
Pituitary Pars Intermedia Dysfunction (PPID)
Early signs of PPID may include:• Regional hypertrichosis; subtle haircoat abnormalities
• Metabolism shift; from an “easy keeper” to lean body condition
• Regional adiposity; cresty neck, tailhead, supraorbital region
• Poor performance; attitude/behavioral changes, dullness, docility
• Reproductive problems; subfertility, pseudolactation
• Laminitis
Advanced signs of PPID may include:• Generalized hypertrichosis; long, curly, dull haircoat that fails to shed despite change in season
• Muscle atrophy with regional adiposity; loss of topline, pot-bellied appearance
• Recurrent infections; white line disease, subsolar abscesses, scratches, periodontal disease, sinusitis
• Inappropriate sweating; hyperhidrosis or anhidrosis
• Polyuria/polydipsia
• Neurologic disorders; blindness, seizure, ataxia
• Laminitis
Signs of PPID may be discounted to the normal aging process, but it is important to recognize that this disease develops very slowlyover time, making early detection difficult. Owners should record when their horse sheds its winter haircoat and compare this timewith herdmates to detect delayed shedding.2 Regional alterations in length, subtle changes in color, texture, or thickness of hairmay indicate early PPID. Generalized hypertrichosis (persistence of hair follicles in anagen) is easily recognized and consideredpathognomonic for PPID.4 The presence of this retained haircoat is considered advanced disease and efforts at detection of PPIDshould begin long before this textbook sign is observed. Chronic, recurrent infections that fail to respond appropriately to treatmentmay also occur due to immunosuppression. In some cases, diagnosis of PPID may be missed altogether due to focus on treatmentof the obvious infection and lack of other overt signs of PPID. A common client complaint in early and advanced PPID is lameness or“foot soreness” associated with insidious onset laminitis which progresses to debilitating laminitis over time. Laminitis may be theonly presenting sign, and may be difficult to recognize unless the horse is examined on a hard surface. Laminitis has been associatedwith the presence of hyperinsulinemia and suggests a poorer prognosis for long-term management of PPID.1
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Pituitary Pars Intermedia Dysfunction (PPID) continued
COMPLICATING FACTORSHyperinsulinemia and insulin resistance/IR now collectively referred to as insulin dysregulation2 is a common finding inapproximately 30% of horses with PPID.1 Insulin resistance/IR is defined as decreased tissue response to insulin, or decreased uptakeof insulin. In IR, the pancreas continues to secrete more insulin to compensate for the decreased tissue response, thus blood insulinlevels will be elevated when IR occurs (hyperinsulinemia). As the condition worsens, the pancreas can fail to secrete enough insulin,which may lead to a true uncompensated diabetic state. The concern with insulin dysregulation is with decreased tissue responseto insulin, laminar tissues can be deprived of proper nutrients. Hyperinsulinemia has been shown to precipitate laminitis in horsesand ponies and PPID must be controlled before it exacerbates underlying insulin dysregulation.2 Insulin dysregulation occurs in aminority of horses with PPID, but is a defining component of Equine Metabolic Syndrome (EMS).
UPDATES IN PPID DIAGNOSISDiagnostics for PPID should be conducted in the face of history and clinical signs consistent with disease. Routine CBC may reveala relative neutrophilia and lymphopenia. Chemistry is usually unremarkable with exception of hyperglycemia present in diabetesmellitus. Hypertriglyceridemia may also occur.2 Diagnosis of PPID can be challenging in early stages, as no gold standard exists fordetection of early disease. Horses with early PPID may test negative due to inability of certain tests to detect subtle pituitary changes.There have been a variety of tests suggested historically for PPID diagnosis. Long thought to be the diagnostic “gold standard,” theOvernight Dexamethasone Suppression Test (ODST) has not proven superior in sensitivity or specificity. Diagnosis of PPID currentlyfocuses on one screening test: Resting plasma ACTH concentration, and one evocative test: Thyrotropin-releasing hormone (TRH)stimulation measuring ACTH. Resting ACTH can be interpreted year-round and is easy to perform in the field as a single blood draw.Resting ACTH is primarily recommended when obvious clinical signs are present (moderate-advanced PPID). TRH stimulation (1.0 mgTRH IV) measuring ACTH at 0 and 10 minutes is currently advocated as a more sensitive test for detection of early PPID, when subtleclinical signs may exist.5 TRH stimulation may also be used when resting ACTH is equivocal, or to confirm a positive or negative result.TRH is available as protirelin or synthetic TRH, and is now available commercially to practitioners.
Both tests are affected by normal hormonal processes that occur in the fall, when the body is triggered to prepare for winter. Bothnormal and PPID horses experience the seasonal rise in ACTH and other hormones, generally August-October, with PPID horsesexhibiting a more profound hormonal rise. Thus, for resting ACTH, positive test results obtained in the fall should be interpretedcarefully utilizing laboratory seasonally-adjusted reference ranges. As laboratory ACTH assays vary significantly, it is also important tostandardize sampling times, be consistent with the laboratory used, and confirm the laboratory’s familiarity with equine endocrinesamples and updated testing recommendations.6 Currently, TRH stimulation measuring ACTH can only be performed December-June as seasonally-adjusted reference ranges have not been established for this test. Test results should be interpreted alongsideclinical signs. It is recommended that prior to initiating medical treatment, baseline test results (day 0) be obtained via either test inorder to accurately judge clinical response to drug. Follow-up testing at 30 days is recommended with dose titration (if necessary)and the horse placed on a six-month recheck schedule with one appointment occurring August-October.2 This protocol ensuresassessment of the horse during the seasonal rise in ACTH, and ensures treatment is adequate during this time.
Detection of early PPID remains difficult, although this is the time period in which medical intervention can be most satisfying. Inhorses with negative or equivocal test results, tests should be repeated in six months or alternatively, the TRH stimulation test used. Iftest results remain negative in the presence of clinical signs, a six-month treatment trial with pergolide (Prascend®) can be considered.In advanced disease, the most accurate diagnostic “test” is the observation of generalized hypertrichosis. This classic haircoat abnormalityprovides high specificity for an abnormally functioning pituitary, although with end-stage disease, medical treatment is palliative.
It is important to note that horses can exhibit concurrent history and clinical signs consistent with both EMS and PPID. It is highlyrecommended that when screening for PPID, insulin parameters be evaluated; and when screening for EMS, diagnostics for PPID beincluded. As the relationship between EMS and PPID is emerging, a complete diagnostic evaluation should include comprehensivetesting parameters for both. Proper nutritional management of the PPID horse must include knowledge of insulin status (i.e.,presence of insulin dysregulation), and hence, laminitis risk. Fasting insulin is easily performed and may be combined with restingACTH, however fasting insulin is limited by low sensitivity compared to the dynamic Oral Sugar Test (OST). The oral sugar test isnow considered the first choice for evaluation of insulin status. A panel consisting of OST, leptin and triglycerides may be helpful fora thorough assessment of the PPID horse.7 The author wishes to thank the Equine Endocrinology Group for providing updates todiagnostic recommendations. http://sites.tufts.edu/equineendogroup/
MANAGEMENT OF PPIDPPID is a chronic, lifelong condition for which there is no cure. Treatment of PPID focuses on administration of pergolide andattention to concurrent issues impacting the horse’s health, such as laminitis, dental disease and maintenance of proper diet.Pergolide is the gold standard for treatment of PPID. Pergolide, an ergot alkaloid dopamine receptor agonist, binds to D2 receptors ofmelanotrophs of the intermediate lobe, inhibiting the production of excessive POMC hormones, namely αMSH and ACTH. Until 2011,only compounded pergolide was available. Compounded pergolide products have been shown to be highly susceptible to light andtemperature, and have also been associated with rapid declines in stability over time. In a 2010 study, initial concentrations of all 14formulations were highly variable, with many well below the label claim. In the same study, a high degree of variation was observed“between two containers of same product ordered from same pharmacy on the same date.”8 Unpublished 2012 data on 21 additionalcompounded pergolide formulations supports previous findings.9 In September 2011, the FDA approved an equine pergolideformulation, Prascend® (www.prascend.com). Prascend® is now the standard of care for PPID with a starting dose of 2 μg/kg PO q24hrs (0.5 mg for 250-kg pony; 1.0 mg for 500-kg horse).10 Diagnostic testing should be performed prior to starting treatment (day 0). The test used to diagnose PPID (resting ACTH or TRH stimulation) should be rechecked after 30 days to assess treatment response,and a minimum of 60 days is required before evaluation of improvement in clinical signs. Photographs taken at initiation of treatmentand at six-month intervals are recommended to document physical changes and provide motivation for clients to continue long-termtreatment. In refractory PPID where daily pergolide dose has reached 6 μg/kg/day (3 mg for 500-kg horse), horses may require theaddition of cyproheptadine (Periactin®) a serotonin antagonist, at a dose of 0.25 mg/kg PO q12h or 0.5 mg/kg PO q24hrs.2, 11 It shouldbe expected that like Parkinson’s disease, PPID will progress over time. At the time of this writing, pergolide has not been definitivelyshown to improve insulin parameters, thus management of laminitis due to insulin dysregulation should be primarily addressedwith diet, exercise, +/- medical therapies. Although PPID is primarily managed medically, nutrition, body clipping, farrier care, regulardeworming and routine dentistry are important. Additional water should be provided if the horse drinks and urinates excessively.Twice yearly re-assessment of haircoat, body condition and endocrine test results is recommended for ongoing monitoring ofdisease progression.
AUTHORMarian G. Little, DVM, Field Equine Professional Services, Boehringer Ingelheim, Paris, Kentucky. [email protected]
REFERENCES1 McGowan TW, Pinchbeck GP, McGowan CM. Prevalence, risk factors and clinical signs predictive for equine pituitary pars intermedia dysfunction in aged horses. Equine Vet J 2012;45:74-79.
2 Frank N. Pituitary pars intermedia dysfunction. Current Therapy 2013.3 McFarlane D, Cribb AE. Systemic and pituitary pars intermedia antioxidant capacity associated with pars intermedia oxidative stress and dysfunction in horses. Am J Vet Res 2005;66:2065-2072.4Innera M, et al. Veterinary Dermatology. In press. 2013.5 Goodale L, Hermida P, Oench SD, Frank N. Assessment of compounded thyrotropin releasing hormone for diagnosis of pituitary pars intermedia dysfunction. ACVIM abstract, 2013.6 Schott HC, et al. Comparison of assay kits for measurement of plasma Adrenocorticotropin Concentration. ACVIM abstract, Seattle, WA. 2013.7 Frank N. Oral sugar test used to diagnose insulin resistance in horses. AAEP Proceedings 2012; 58: 576.8 Stanley SD, Knych HD. DVM, Ph.D. Comparison of pharmaceutical equivalence for compounded preparations of pergolide mesylate. AAEP Proceedings 2012; 56: 274-276.9 Davidson G, Davis J. Potency and stability of compounded pergolide formulations for use in the horse. Unpublished. 2012.10 PRASCEND® (pergolide mesylate) [Freedom of Information Summary]. St. Joseph, MO: Boehringer Ingelheim Vetmedica, Inc.; 2011.11 Schott HC. Medical management of PPID. 2012.
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Combatting Intestinal Parasites
The EnemySmart horse owners know the best offense against equine parasites is a strong defense based on identifying
and understanding the enemies that threaten your horse’s health.* Check out the six worst offenders below.
RoundwormsThreat: High to Severe
LIFECYCLE: Mature eggs are ingested when eaten through the feces and environment; larvae migrate through intestinal wall to the liver; blood carries larvae from the liver to lungs; larvae enter airways and are coughed up into mouth; larvae are swallowed and become adults in the small intestine; adults lay up to 200,000 eggs per day; eggs are expelled in feces. Approximate 80-day cycle.
SYMPTOMS: Signs of respiratory disease including nasal discharge and cough. Signs of intestinal disease including weight loss, pot belly, poor condition, digestive problems, impaction colic, bowel rupture, and death in some cases.
Encysted Small StrongylesThreat: Moderate to Severe
LIFECYCLE: Eggs in feces; 1st & 2nd stage larvae in soil or feces; 3rd stage larvae ingested by horses from mangers, grass, feed, etc.; larvae burrow (encyst) into intestinal walls for months or even years; when large numbers of cyathostomes emerge from “hibernation” within the intestinal wall and re-enter the intestines, severe disease can occur; adults live in large intestine and produce millions of eggs expelled in feces.
SYMPTOMS: During the encysted stage, the horse may have poor feed conversion and lethargy. Upon sudden emergence from encysted stage, loss of appetite, diarrhea, anemia, lethargy, colic, and even death in extreme cases can occur.
Large StrongylesThreat: Moderate to Severe
LIFECYCLE: Eggs in feces; 1st & 2nd stage larvae in soil or feces; 3rd stage larvae ingested by horses from mangers, grass, feed, etc.; larvae migrate from large intestine through blood vessel walls or other organs; adults live in the large intestine and produce millions of eggs expelled in feces.
SYMPTOMS: Weight loss, digestive problems due to obstructed blood flow to portions of the large intestine, dull coat, poor appetite, lethargy, pot belly, liver problems, colic, and even death in extreme cases.
PinwormsThreat: Moderate
LIFECYCLE: Eggs are laid around the anus of an infected horse; eggs fall to the ground and are ingested by other horses; eggs hatch in the stomach (occasionally other organs) and remain there until larvae are mature; larvae migrate to the large intestine and colon; adults migrate to the anus and lay eggs there before withdrawing back inside.
SYMPTOMS: The adhesive nature of the deposited eggs is irritating and causes horses to rub their tail and rectal area to relieve the itching resulting in damage to hair and skin.
TapewormsThreat: Moderate
LIFECYCLE: Horse ingests a mite infected with larval tapeworm; larvae develop into adult tapeworms in the intestine in about two months; adult tapeworms live in intestine and absorb food as it passes by; adults produce eggs that are passed in horse feces; mites eat eggs; eggs produce larval tapeworms inside the mites in two to four months.
SYMPTOMS: Poor growth in young horses, poor condition overall, inflamed intestines, intermittent diarrhea, and/or colic.
BotsThreat: Low
LIFECYCLE: Bot flies (three species) lay yellow or gray eggs on horse’s hair on legs, mane, flanks, jaws, throat or lips in late summer; eggs enter the mouth when licked by horse; eggs hatch into larvae, remaining in the mouth up to three weeks; larvae migrate to stomach and small intestine and attach to the lining for about seven months; larvae pass out in feces and enter the soil; over two months, larvae develop into adult flies; adult flies lay eggs on hair on horse’s legs and trunk.
SYMPTOMS: Digestive problems, dull coat, and colic.
*A fecal exam is the most reliable way to be sure you’re treating your horse for the right
parasites. Check with your veterinarian before starting any deworming program.
AFFECTS: Foals and young horses under age two are most vulnerable, as an infestation can severely affect both respiratory and digestive systems. Adult horses develop some immunity unless infestation is extreme and unchecked.
AFFECTS: All ages are vulnerable, but young horses and immunocompromised adults are most susceptible. Upon emergence, severe inflammation and bleeding in the intestine causes normal gut action to be affected, resulting in diarrhea, anemia, colic, and occasionally death.
AFFECTS: Especially dangerous to young horses under age two, and all horses if infestation is left unchecked. Migrating larvae damage blood vessels, intestinal walls, and organs such as the liver.
AFFECTS: Can affect all ages. Although relatively harmless to a horse’s overall health, itching from pinworms can cause damage to hair and skin.
AFFECTS: All ages are affected, as immunity isn’t apparent. Young horses under age two may be more susceptible to problems. Heavy infestation may affect various areas of the intestinal tract, causing scarring or severe inflammation.
AFFECTS: All ages can be affected. Bot larvae damage the lining of the stomach and small intestine, interfere with the passage of food, and may cause other digestive problems.
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Intestinal Parasite Info
The PlanOnce parasite enemies are known and understood, the right deworming program can be planned
for each individual horse, based first on age and then on other conditions that may include regional
climate conditions, stocking density, history of dewormer use, and results of fecal testing. Good
management includes providing a clean environment and reviewing deworming programs each year.
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Vaccine Comparison Charts
Killed antibodies, Killed antitoxin, Killed extract,Killed subunit, Killed toxoid
Modified-live virus
Recombinant
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9 Tips to Prevent Colic in Horses
Colic can seriously affect the health and well-being of a horse, no matter its age. In fact, the
abdominal pain remains a major cause of sickness in equines, affecting about 10 percent of all
horses at least once in the lifetimes. It is essential for horse owners to not only recognize early
signs of colic (because the sooner a horse is treated, the better its chance of recovery), but to
also take steps to help prevent it.
Check out these tips to steer clear of colic in horses:
Keep a routine: It’s important for horses to maintain a daily routine—timing and consistency are cornerstones of avoiding gastrointestinal problems. This is because the enzyme production in a horse’s stomach is time-dependent. Enzymes are released based on the animal’s internal clock, and food needs to be present during gastric acid formation, otherwise the acid may cause damage to the stomach lining and trigger other problems. Feeding your horse at the same time of day is considered the best practice.
Deworm regularly: Internal parasites can thrive in pastures where your horse grazes, plays and exercises; and it’s no surprise that a stomach full of parasites can cause bellyaches. Get rid of the worms by establishing a deworming program with your veterinarian. Consider implementing a five-day double worming program to eliminate encysted small strongyles. Also, all horses should be dewormed with Quest Plus for tapeworms once a year.
Unfortunately, deworming is not a one-size-fits-all solution. An effective program hinges on a number of factors that can vary between horses, including age, location, season, travel amount, pasture load and other horses in the pasture. Plus, half of all horses have tapeworms even though most mixed animal vets don’t know this.
To determine your horse’s deworming needs, have your vet perform a fecal exam to check for the presence of worm eggs. A fecal egg count reduction test should be performed every one to two years.
Float teeth: When teeth are left unattended, they form sharp points that can trigger ulcers in your horse’s mouth. Besides causing ulcers, if a horse’s chewing teeth do not have a flat surface, they cannot properly chew food, which in turn hinders the process of digestion. Call your vet to float your horse’s teeth. All horses of every age should have their teeth floated at least once a year. A simple test can go a long way.
Offer fresh water at all times: Although it may sound obvious, horses need clean, fresh, potable water at all times. While the stall should be equipped with at least one large automatic waterer or large bucket, make sure you clean and fill the water tub in the field too. To avoid fecal impaction, provide water above 50 degrees at all times.
If swapping feeds, do so gradually: If you’re switching from one feed to another, such as timothy to alfalfa, be sure to do it slowly. An abrupt shift in feed can lead to an upset stomach. For a smooth transition, mix the two feeds together for a week while gradually removing the old and increasing the new.
Spread out grazing schedules: Imitate natural grazing schedules by providing two or three smaller portions of feed throughout the day, rather than one single feeding that overloads the digestive tract.
Muck stalls frequently: Use manure forks and suitable buckets to clean out stalls. A filthy, unkempt stall encourages a habitable environment for bacteria and parasites. Also, harrow pastures to break up manure and help disrupt the parasitic life cycle.
Remove noxious weeds: Pull weeds and other indigestible substances from pasture grass, hay and bedding.
Use digestive supplements to promote healthy bacteria growth: The equine gastrointestinal system is complex and delicate in certain horses. That’s why Finish Line® developed U-7™ Gastric Aid with the specific aim of supporting a healthy stomach, intestine, cecum and colon.
Your equine veterinarian may suggest that newly bought
horses should be Power Packed dewormed. This is because
worms can become logged at the mesenteric arteries, which
reduces blood flow to the intestines, in turn causing the guts
to twist. As unpleasant as it sounds, worms can remain lodged
in the arteries for years before coming loose and traveling
down to plug the mesenteric arteries. All horse owners should
visit their equine veterinarian to find out which drugs the
parasites have become resistant to, for health check and
diagnosis as needed, and treatment.
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Equine Botulism
NeurotoxinThe botulinum neurotoxin can be found worldwide and is known as a major source of food poisoning in humans. It is one of the most potent toxins known, with a single teaspoon of the toxin being enough to kill thousands of horses. The toxin is produced by the bacterium Clostridium botulinum. This bacterium grows in warm, anaerobic conditions, but can sporulate and remain dormant for years waiting for appropriate growth conditions. The neurotoxin comes in many forms (types A - G), but the most common form affecting horses is type B. Type B botulism can be found throughout the U.S. but is found most commonly in the Ohio Valley, northeast and mid-Atlantic regions.
ExposureThe most common form of exposure in horses is forage poisoning. This is ingestion of preformed toxin which is present in feed due to improper storage, improper processing or contamination with animal carcasses. While large round bales and haylage are usually associated with this route, all feed types can be associated with botulism. The perception that only horses fed round bales are at risk is false, as any stored or processed feed source can harbor botulism.
Wound botulism occurs when a wound has the correct conditions for growth of the bacterium and has been exposed to C. botulinum spores. Deep wounds, umbilical infections and castration sites are typical locations. The C. botulinum bacteria proliferate and begin to produce the neurotoxin in these conditions.
Toxicoinfectious botulism, also known as Shaker Foal Syndrome, results when foals ingest the bacterial spores. Conditions in the foal gastrointestinal tract allow for growth of the bacteria and production of the neurotoxin. Foals are typically affected before two months of age.
Clinical SignsClinical signs and progression are dose-dependent and seen within 24 hours of exposure to the toxin.
Reduced tongue tone Reduced eyelid tone
Generalized weakness Muscle fasciculation
Recumbency Respiratory failure
Reduced tail tone Dysphagia
by Joe Lyman, DVM, MS, Professional Services Veterinarian, Neogen Corporation
DiagnosisDiagnosis of equine botulism can be difficult in the early stages due to the clinical signs mimicking many other diseases. Botulism is frequently mistaken for colic. A common test for on-farm diagnosis is the ‘grain test.’ Horses are offered a small amount of grain/sweet feed and observed. The inability of affected horses to apprehend and swallow feed is readily apparent. Laboratory diagnosis is possible with both PCR and neurotoxin assays, but results typically are not available until well after treatment is required.
TreatmentInitial treatment of equine botulism should include prompt administration of antitoxin. Only circulating toxin will be bound by antitoxin, meaning that clinical signs will not be resolved by administration of antitoxin. Supportive therapy is required, and severe cases will require intensive care. Clinical signs will persist for more than a week, with most horses regaining the ability to consume feed in 7-8 days.
PrognosisOverall survival rate for horses with botulism is approximately 50%. Horses that become recumbent have a grave prognosis, with survival rates being less than 20%. Early treatment with antitoxin improves survival rate and reduces progression of clinical signs.
PreventionPrevention of exposure to the toxin is an important part of prevention of the disease, but is not always possible. Vaccination with BotVax B is effective for prevention of type B botulism (the most common type in horses), but does not confer protection against other types. An initial series of three doses is required with an annual booster thereafter. The vaccine is safe for use in pregnant mares and foals older than two weeks. AAEP vaccination guidelines include vaccination against botulism in the risk-based category.
Equine Botulism is a disease caused by the botulinum neurotoxin produced by the bacterium
Clostridium botulinum. Exposure to the neurotoxin causes horses to become progressively
weak and paralyzed due to blockage of the neuromuscular transmission. Rapid progression is
characteristic, with respiratory failure due to muscle paralysis resulting in many untreated cases.
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21258917 Real Heal Uterine Flush
21133970 Recombinant Equine LH 3.75mg
12830628 Regumate 1000ml
21231842 Settle Equine Endometritis 1.5ml
19871233 Speculum Vaginal Disp Sterile 18”
20101564 Sterile Lube Jelly Non-Spermicidal 5oz
18568581 Sucromate Inj 10dose
21126725 Swab Culture Kalayjian
21249925 ViGRO Complete Flush Solution 2L
Staples/Dry Goodsvarious Flex Wrap EX Tear 4” Various Colors
20102749 Bandage Conforming Poly 3” 12s
13675537 Breeder Sleeve 36” Red 100s
11300877 Conform Bandage 3” Non Sterile 12s
14095579 Conform Bandage 4” Non Sterile 12s
18455889 Cotton Roll 1lb
21132791 Dermacea Bandage Roll 3”x4.1
21132790 Dermacea Bandage Roll 4”x4.1
17741551 Equisleeve OB Sterile 12s 100s
16545501 Equisleeve OB Non/Sterile 100s
16638623 Gauze Brown Cling 3”x5yd
13456594 Gauze Brown Cling 6”x5yd
21238169 Gauze Sponge 3x3 12-Ply 200s
21238170 Gauze Sponge 4x4 12-Ply 200s
17982996 Glove Maxi Sleeve (Brn) 100s
16585645 Glove Maxi Sleeve (Yellow) 100s
11257066 Glove OB Poly Sleeve Sterile 12s
12393592 Glove Poly Sleeve (Blue) 100s
12025489 OB Sleeve Small Hand Pink 35” 100s
various Vetrap 4” Various Colors
Sedative/Tranquilizer17640541 Acepromazine Inj 50ml
19784915 Acepromazine Tabs 25mg 100s
17945825 Acepromazine Tabs 25mg 500s
13771120 Anased 100mg/ml 50ml
16233512 Dormosedan 20ml
15140369 Dormosedan 5ml
12010672 Dormosedan Gel 10x3ml
16877982 Sedivet Inj 1% 20ml
Equine Check List
Lab21141865 Dish 4 Well Cluster RND Bottom
21251165 Embryo Collection Filter Non-Vent
21251165 Embryo Searching Bowl 120cc
21251354 Embryo Transfer Gun Disp 0.5cc
21245711 Equine Embryo Recovery Kit
21134513 EZ Way Embryo Collection Filter ECE051
21253098 Holding Dish RND IRAD 35mmx10mm 10s
21134303 IMV Straw Gamma Irrad 0.25cc 5pk
12100154 Microscope Cover Slip 100s
16640415 Microscope Slide Clear 72s
10245514 Microscope Slide Frosted 72s
21251164 Over Sheath Sanitary 21”
15122363 Semen Collection Cone
15611245 Semen Collection Tube 100s
21133446 Semen Extender INRA 96 200ml
21245710 Sheath Side Delivery Blue 21”
21141858 Splitting Dish Round 60x15mm 20s
21141858 Splitting Dish Round 60x15MM 20s
21245784 Straw Gamma IRRAD 0.25cc 5pk
21141856 Straw Gamma IRRAD Yel 0.25cc 5pk
11152540 Vetscan Equine Profile Plus 12s
21231507 Vetscan Equine Profile Plus 25s
21142334 Vigro Equine Holding Media 8ml
17214916 VSPRO Fibrinogen Test 12s
16194127 VSPRO Fibrinogen Test 25s
21251166 Y Flush Tubing w/Spike
animalhealthinternational.com
For the Foal/Serums12658945 Derma Cloth Wipe
21238225 Diagel Diarrhea Gel 30ml
10315487 Endoserum 500ml
13622916 Endovac Equi 10ml/10dose
20111441 Enema Zip Top Bag + Foal Tip 2.5L
12598772 Equine Coli Endotox 1ds
15802349 Equine Tracheal Wash Kit
21257801 Equiplas 950ml
21257806 Equiplas B Foal 950ml
21257802 Equiplas Plus 950ml
21257804 Equiplas R 950ml
21257804 Equiplas REA 950ml
16103031 Fleet Adult Enema 4.5oz
21246910 Foal Lac Instantized Powder 20lb
12837259 Foal Lac Instantized Powder 40lb
15252588 Foal Lac Instantized Powder 5lb
18863749 Foal Lac Pellet 25lb
13055802 Foal Lac Pellet 40lb
21252737 Foal Lac Pellet 6lb
21130158 Higamm-Equi High Equine IGG 100ml
21133981 Higamm-Equi High Equine IGG 500ml
21124150 Mares Match Foal 20lb
21123216 Mares Match Foal Pellets 25lb
16540505 Normal Serum Equine Origin 250ml
16955215 Nursemate ASAP Foal 30ml
21141720 Plasmune Equine IGG 1000ml
13506190 Predict-A-Foal Kit 15 test
21233677 Seramune IV IGG 250ml
21233678 Seramune Oral 300ml
Fluids/Fluid Administration21231127 Abbocath-T 14x2
21231133 Abbocath-T 14x5.5
21120276 Abbocath-T 16x5.5
12455836 Dextrose 5% + Lactated Ringers inj 1000ml (Abbott)
21141993 Dextrose 5% 1000ml (Abbott)
15784324 Dextrose 50% 500ml (Aspen)
21232659 IV Angiocath 14x5.25” 50s
21254369 IV Aniset L/A 2 Spike
21254368 IV Aniset L/A 4 Spike
21239267 IV Ext Set 7” Large Animal
19234543 IV Extension Set 30”
15982994 IV Set Funnel Type (J0063)
19601321 IV Set Primary 80”
21239931 Lactated Ringer 1000ml
21241847 Lactated Ringer 250ml
21239930 Lactated Ringer 5000ml
21141995 Lactated Ringer 500ml
11843969 Lactated Ringer Bottle 1000ml
21245395 Lactated Ringer Irrigation 3000ml
21235636 Mila Cath Extended Use 14x5.25”
21235640 Mila Cath Extended Use 16x3
21141996 Plasmalyte 148 Inj 1000ml
12311541 Plasmalyte A PH 7.4 Inj 1000ml
21142198 Plasmalyte A PH 7.4 Inj 5000ml
21230364 Sodium Chloride 0.9% Irrigation 1000ml (Hospira)
21230425 Sodium Chloride 0.9% Irrigation 500ml (Hospira)
16963036 Sodium Chloride Inj 0.9% 1000ml (Abbott)
21141990 Sodium Chloride Inj 0.9% 250ml (Abbott)
21230449 Sodium Chloride Inj 0.45% 1000ml (Hospira)
21230446 Sodium Chloride Inj 0.9% 1000ml (Hopsira)
21230444 Sodium Chloride Inj 0.9% 250ml (Hospira)
21230445 Sodium Chloride Inj 0.9% 500ml (Hospira)
21141991 Sodium Chloride Inj 500ml (Abbott)
21141992 Sodium Chloride Irrigation 0.9% 500ml (Abbott)
21231147 Sodium Chloride Irrigation 0.9% (Hospira)
21239279 Transfer Set Disp Large Animal (TS2001)
Scrub/Antiseptic/Disinfectant14301506 Accel Concentrate gallon
13108650 Accel Wipes
11795782 Alcohol 70% gallon
11724721 Alcohol 99% gallon
15006799 Chloradine Scrub 2% gallon
15006690 Chloradine Scrub 4% gallon
15194851 Chlorhexidine Solution 2% gallon
17214830 Hydrogen Peroxide 3% gallon
11238451 Povidine Iodine Scrub gallon
11595148 Povidine Iodine Solution gallon
11117731 Triodine 7 16oz
21135048 Triodine 7 32oz
Equine Check List
animalhealthinternational.com
Equipment Repair Center
• Extend the life of your equipment with Animal Health International’s Equipment Repair Services
• Get your equipment back up and running in no time for a very reasonable price
• Quick turnaround time
• Full bumper-to-bumper, 90-day warranty on all repairs (parts and labor)
Your first choice for veterinary equipment sales and service
Call 855-FIX-1849, visit our websiteAnimalHealthInternationalRepair.com or [email protected]
All Your Equipment Needs in One Location
From surgical and dental equipment and tools, to imaging and diagnostics, to consumables,
pharmaceuticals, and all your clinic needs, Animal Health International provides what you
need, when you need it. We have everything you need from initial start-ups to hospital care.
Animal Health International also provides leasing programs in order to minimize start-up
costs and maximize cash flexibility. Leasing allows for immediate write-off of the dollars
spent. These are finance leases which qualify for Section 179 (accelerated depreciation).
Therefore, the equipment does not have to be depreciated over five to seven years.
Our equipment professionals can assist with all of your equipment challenges and identify
the best solutions for your specific needs.
animalhealthinternational.com
Animal Health International
• Provide up-to-date information on products, programs, new technologies and animal health issues.
• Are trained in product offering, regulatory compliance, immunology, pharmacology, merchandising and management.
• Are a resource for improved animal health management and product information with our partnered manufacturers.
• Network with over 350 outside and inside sales representatives nationwide to assist in your animal health needs.
Our sales staff
Animal Health International sales representatives are trained professionals who understand the importance
of animal health and are here to assist you with all your needs.
Our experienced sales staff possess the product knowledge and deep-rooted industry experience to assist
you with recommendations. We want to help you achieve your overall animal health and business objectives.
Animal Health International provides marketing, distribution, information management and logistics to help make our customers’ job easier.
Sales and delivery• Knowledgeable and professional sales staff.
• Single-source supplier for all your animal health needs.
• Emergency and weekend service available.
• Split order option.
• Large national, multi-location distributor.
• Inventory management.
• Safe and efficacious products that meet manufacturers’ handling specifications.
• Reliable source of information.
• Assured compliance and handling to meet the standards with regulatory agencies and prescription drug handling.
• Interface between customer, consulting veterinarian and nutritionist.
• Delivery to multiple locations.
• Volume purchasing which ensures competitive pricing.
• Flexibility and convenience in managing inventory.
Benefits of working with our sales teamCALIFORNIA
VISALIACall Center
(559) 651-1930
INDIANAWOLCOTTCall Center
(800) 541-5547
IOWASIOUX CENTERVet Call Center(800) 735-8387
NEBRASKAHASTINGS
Vet Call Center(800) 321-2887
SOUTH DAKOTASIOUX FALLS
Call Center(800) 735-8387
HAWAIIKAMUELA
Sales Office(808) 885-9015
FLORIDAOCALA
Call Center(800) 342-5231
IOWAMANCHESTER
Call Center(800) 458-4439
MINNESOTABUFFALO
Vet Call Center(800) 959-3836
PENNSYLVANIALANCASTERCall Center
(888) 313-4587
TEXASSAN ANTONIO
Call Center(800) 292-5692
COMPANIONANIMAL
Sales Office(888) 787-4483
Call Centers:
Corporate HeadquartersGREELEY
822 7th St. Suite 740Greeley, Colorado 80631
(866) 228-2659(970) 353-2600
Online Ordering SupportOrder online 24 hours a day at your convenience!
(800) 203-5620Monday-Friday 6:00am-3:00pm MT
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