The gene responsible for dwarfism in Miniature Horses is called the aggrecan gene (ACAN). DNA testing for 4 mutations of the gene is being offered at the University of Kentucky Animal Testing and Research Laboratory. The mutations were found by a PhD student, John Eberth, at the UK Gluck Equine Research Center. John is studying […]
Selenium is a trace mineral that is necessary for the way a horse functions. It acts in conjunction with Vitamin E as anti-oxidants, protecting cell membranes from destruction. However, too much or too little selenium can have adverse effects. A deficiency of selenium can cause muscle disease, impaired heart function, difficulty swallowing, respiratory distress and […]
Botulism is produced by Clostridum botulinum and is among the most lethal toxins known. There are 7 known strains of botulism (A-G), A and B being the most common in horses. Type C is caused by decaying animals in feed. Some types cause the disease in birds and cattle as well as horses . Some […]
