What is Equine Atypical Myopathy? Equine Atypical Myopathy (EAM) is a severe condition affecting the muscles of horses and donkeys. EAM has been reported in various parts of the world since the 20th century and has a high mortality rate of 70-80%. The problem presents sporadically, although it is most common in autumn grazing horses when pastures a...
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Just like cats and dogs, horses are susceptible to a range of allergies. With summer approaching, it is important to think ahead and get these allergies under control before the season starts and the problems worsen. Sunshine and warmer weather make life much easier for the horse and horse owner, but they also bring flies, pollen and poisonous plan...
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Turning out our horses is something most of us do without thinking about. But what hidden dangers are our horses sharing their fields with? Many plants, trees and hedges are poisonous to horses and ponies when ingested and not all are easy to recognise. To avoid poisoning, it is important to be able to differentiate harmless plants from highly toxi...
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What is hip dysplasia? Hip dysplasia is a debilitating joint condition that affects all dogs but is particularly prevalent in the bigger breeds, with more than 50% of affected dogs being large or giant. The trait is genetic (polygenic) but can also be influenced by environmental factors such as over-feeding a dog during puppyhood or exercising it t...
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It is no secret that mares have a reputation for being moody and difficult when they’re in season. Being polyoestrous, they come into season in spring, summer and autumn and typically have 3-week cycles, with their season lasting 5-7 days at a time. During this period, mares can be sensitive, temperamental and even aggressive towards their ha...
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People tend to think of rabbits and guinea pigs as one and the same thing but, in actual fact, their needs and behaviours are very different. Pairing the two in a hutch or run is often disastrous and needs to be attempted with caution, if it is attempted at all. A rabbit’s best companion is another friendly rabbit. A guinea pig’s best c...
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This blog explores why some animals reject or abandon their young, examining the natural instincts, survival strategies, and environmental pressures behind this behaviour in both wild and domestic species. Key takeaways Animal mothers may reject weak, sick, or surplus offspring to focus resources on those most likely to survive. Stress, poor heal...
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January might now be over, but the time for investing in something positive is far from having been and gone. For the thirteenth year running, February is ‘Adopt a Rescued Rabbit Month,’ a time when animal rescues across the country pour their efforts into encouraging us, the avid animal-lover, into adopting rather than purchasing our d...
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You may have heard it said that leaving your cat ‘intact’ is kinder than having it neutered or spayed, but most vets would argue this isn’t the case. In fact, cats that aren’t neutered are susceptible to more health and behavioural problems than their ‘fixed’ friends. For one thing, cancer is more likely with int...
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As we move towards autumn and winter, it won't be long before we're up to our necks in mud and riding is just a distant memory. So, for 5 minutes let's remind ourselves of all the benefits of owning a horse (and there are plenty!), while also looking at what some of our customers have to say. Fresh air and exercise – perhaps the most obvious...
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