Horse Feed Research Articles

Distribution and risk factors for the occurrence and development of recurrent equine uveitis

The polyetiological nature of uveitis, the role of systemic mechanisms and the impact of environmental factors (improper operation, horse feeding) in its development and course determine the complex nature and complexity of the problem of this disease. The latter is directly related to the lack of knowledge of the predisposing triggering factors of the immunological mechanisms in the development of uveitis. Despite the high frequency of this pathology in horses, the spread and risk factors for the occurrence and development of uveitis have not been determined, the diagnostic criteria and the prognostic significance of clinical signs have not been studied. All of the above dictates the urgent need to develop a system of evidence-based approach to the diagnosis, treatment and prevention of uveitis. In this regard, it is very relevant to study the immunological mechanisms of the course of ERU, control over their condition and targeted impact on the prevention of complications.

Study of the influence of organomineral supplement feeds on the natural resource indicators of the live weight of horses in the Far North of Yakutia

The paper considers with the possibility of applying organic mineral supplement feeds from local natural raw materials in feeding Yang-type horses during the period of maximum loss of live weight in winter. In accordance with the research effort, horses from the control group that were feeding without supplement feeds, and animals from the experimental groups that were feeding organic mineral supplement feeds. During experiments, the live weight was evaluated. The biochemical structure of the blood of the experimental horses was studied. The study of the food ration of horses showed that they have a deficiency of trace elements and vitamins. Therefore, the application of organic mineral supplement feeds from local natural raw materials is justified from a practical point of view. Feeding animals from the experimental groups with supplement feeds made it possible to preserve their live weight in comparison to the control group by 0.81% and 0.5%. The improvement in horse feeding was accompanied by the normalization of the biochemical structure of blood. Thus, horses from experimental groups II and III had higher indicators of total protein by 0.43% and 0.13%, albumin by 0.17% and 0.1%, globulin by 0.26% and 0.03%, hemoglobin by 4.51% and 1.75%, as well as mineral composition (calcium was higher by 6.85% and 2.74%, phosphorus was higher by 7.62% and 2.86%). Thus, the efficiency of feeding horses with organic mineral supplement feeds in winter has been experimentally proved, which ensures maximum preservation of live weight in the Far North of Yakutia.

Feeding and Management of Horses with and without Free Faecal Liquid: A Case-Control Study.

Simple SummaryHorses with free faecal liquid defecate in one solid and one liquid phase, and the liquid phase can be a concern for the horse owner and veterinarians. The causes of free faecal liquid are unknown, but previous studies have indicated that feed ration composition may play an important role in the occurrence of the condition. A study comparing feed rations, feeding practices and management factors for horses with and without free faecal liquid was performed. Horses without free faecal liquid were reported to have a lower daily intake of starch and sugar and a higher daily intake of protein and fibre compared to horses with free faecal liquid. Horses with and without free faecal liquid were fed similar amounts of wrapped forages and were subject to the same management practices. The reported differences may be of importance for the condition, but further studies are required to establish if its occurrence is due to specific feeding regimens.Free faecal liquid (FFL) in horses is characterised by the excretion of faeces in two phases (one solid and one liquid), which may cause dermatitis on the hindlegs. The causes of FFL are not known. Results from previous studies have indicated that feed ration composition and management factors may play important roles in the occurrence of FFL. A case–control study was therefore performed in which data on feed rations, feeding practices and management factors were compared between horses with (case) and without (control) FFL on 50 private farms in Sweden and Norway. The comparisons show that case and control horses were reported to be fed similar average amounts of wrapped forage (p = 0.97) and to be subject to similar management practices, but case horses were fed higher proportions of concentrates in their diet (p < 0.001) and lower average amounts of straw and lucerne (p < 0.05) compared to control horses. Case horses were reported to be fed twice as much concentrate per 100 kg BW and day as control horses and a higher daily intake of starch and water-soluble carbohydrates (p < 0.05). Case horses also had a lower daily intake of digestible crude protein and neutral detergent fibre compared to control horses (p < 0.05). These differences were small but are of interest for further studies of factors causing FFL.

Influence of operating conditions on the persistence of E. coli, enterococci, Clostridium perfringens and Clostridioides difficile in semi-continuous mesophilic anaerobic reactors

This study examined the combined effect of hydraulic retention time (HRT), organic loading rate (OLR) and heat pretreatment of manure (70 °C, 1 h) on the fate of E. coli, enterococci, C. perfringens, C. difficile, and on chemical parameters (volatile fatty acids and ammonia) that may inactivate pathogens. Semi-continuous mesophilic anaerobic reactors were fed with pig manure and horse feed. The operating conditions were 2, 3, 4 COD.L−1.d−1 (OLR), 24, 35, 46 days (HRT) and use or not of a thermal pretreatment. The levels of the chemical parameters did not reach concentrations capable of inactivating the four bacteria. Anaerobic digestion led to a Log10 removal > 3 (E. coli), 0.9–2.1 (enterococci), 0.1–0.6 (C. perfringens) and 0–1 (C. difficile). Increasing HRT only reduced the concentration of E. coli in the digestate. Increasing OLR reduced the Log10 removal of enterococci and C. difficile. The heat pretreatment led to non-detection of E. coli in the digestate, reduced the concentration of C. perfringens by 0.8–1.3 Log10 and increased the concentration of C. difficile by 0.04–0.7 Log10. Enterococci, not detected in the heated manure, were present in the digestate. The distribution of genes encoding virulence factors of C. difficile (tcdA and tcdB) and C. perfringens (cpa, cpb2 and cpb) was not impacted by anaerobic digestion or by the heat pretreatment. Enterococci, C. perfringens, C. difficile were present in the digestate at relatively stable concentrations regardless of the operating conditions, indicating that even with heat pretreatment, the biosafety of digestate cannot be guaranteed in mesophilic conditions.

Phosphorus Non-Point Pollution from Equestrian Wastes and the Need for Recycling

South Florida and much of the rest of the World suffers from harmful algal blooms (HABs) and controls of both nitrogen (N) and phosphorus (P) pollution are required to curtail the onset, spread and/or expansion of these blooms.&#x0D; &#x0D; This report covers our studies on several aspects of equestrian waste (viz. horse manure) aimed at yielding an overview of phosphorus and its pollution stemming from non-point horse manure sources in portions of Palm Beach County Florida. Methods included a modified Hedley extraction sequence, emphasizing &amp;lsquo;easily extractable phosphorus&amp;rsquo; (EEP), and 31P nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopic identification of organic phosphorus (Po) species.&#x0D; &#x0D; Samples included fresh and aged horse manure, pasture soils, horse feed and pasture grasses, and canal waters adjacent to equestrian or agricultural fields.&#x0D; &#x0D; Easily extractable Phosphorus (EEP) averaged about 54-77% of the total horse manure phosphorus. Total phosphorus ranged from 13,020 &amp;ndash; 22,300 mg per kilogram dry weight. (&amp;asymp;60-100 lbs. P2O5 / ton and on a wet weight basis, this equates to 4,000 to 14,818 grams-P/ U.S. ton or 8.8 to 32.6 pounds of phosphorus (&amp;asymp; 20-75 lb. P2O5) per wet weight ton of horse manure. Considering the values of EEP in fresh samples from a single horse, we found a range of 8,000 &amp;ndash; 17,000 mg-P/kg (8-17 g-P/kg) dry weight horse manure.&#x0D; &#x0D; Soil samples yielded the highest P in the NaOH extract of the Hedley sequence. This equates to the Al, Fe and ester forms. &#x0D; &#x0D; Phosphorus (viz. EEP) runoff is viewed here as a non-point P pollution source.

Эффективность применения комбикорма-стартера для молодняка лошадей якутской породы в зимний период

Научно-исследовательская работа по испытанию рецептуры комбикорма-стартера для молодняка лошадей проведена в научно-производственном стационаре лаборатории селекции и разведения лошадей ЯНИИСХ «Олбуордаах» в Амгинском улусе. Комбикорм-стартер для молодняка I опытной группы состоял из 30% местного овса, 31,5% сухой пивной дробины, 7% ячменя, 14% отрубей пшеничных, 8% жмыха подсолнечного, 0,3% соли кемпендяйской, 1,5% фелуцена с биотином, Se, Mg и 0,69% премикса для лошадей «Классик» в количестве 10 г на 100 кг живой массы. Для опытной группы II рецептура отличалась включением пробиотика «Сахабактисубтил» (0,01%). При потреблении 7,58–7,64 кг сухого вещества сено-овсяного рациона молодняк лошадей до 1 года испытывает дефицит практически всех основных питательных веществ, макро-, микроэлементов и витаминов, за исключением сырой клетчатки, магния и марганца. Установлено, что животные опытных групп лучше использовали питательные вещества корма. Достоверно высокие коэффициенты переваримости отмечены у опытной группы II. Молодняк опытных групп I и II превосходил аналогов контрольной группы по переваримой энергии на 5,52 и 7,85 абс.% (136,3 ± 0,17 и 136,3± 2,14 МДж), обменной энергии — на 6,81 и 9,03 абс.% (77,8 ± 1,25 и 79,7 ± 1,19 МДж) соответственно (Р ≥ 0,95). Обменность валовой энергии у молодняка опытных групп была выше на 6,14 и 8,39 абс.%, чем у аналогов контрольной группы. Полученные данные свидетельствуют о том, что дополнительное кормление молодняка комбикормом с добавлением пробиотической культуры «Сахабактисубтил» в весенне-зимний период способствовало значительному повышению уровня продуктивного использования энергии. Применение комбикормов-стартеров в зимнем кормлении молодняка до 1 года способствовало повышению среднесуточного прироста молодняка лошадей на 7 и 9% по сравнению с контролем. Восполнение недостатка железа, кобальта и йода в рационе молодняка до 1 года при зимнем стационарном кормлении способствовало сохранению упитанности животных. The experiment took place at the laboratory of Horse Breeding of the Yakut Agricultural Research Institute “Olbuordaakh”. The aim was to test the composition of starter feeds for young horses. The forage for group I contained 30% of local oats, 31.5% of dry brewer’s grains, 7% of barley, 14% of wheat bran, 8% of sunflower cake, 0.3% of Kempendyay salt, 1.5% of “Felutsen” with biotin, Se, Mg and 0.69% of horse premixture “Klassik” (10 g per 100 kg of body weight). Group II additionally consumed probiotic “Sakhabaktisubtil” (0.01%). Feeding animals of up to 1 year-old with 7.58–7.64 kg of dry matter (DM) of hay and oats led to the deficiency in almost all essential nutrients, macro-, micronutrients and vitamins except for crude fiber, magnesium and manganese. Experimental groups showed better results of nutrient consumption. Group II had significantly better digestibility indices. Groups I and II exceeded the control group in digestible energy by 5.52 and 7.85 absolute % (136.3 ± 0.17 and 136.3 ± 2.14 MJ), exchange energy — by 6.81 and 9.03 absolute % (77.8 ± 1.25 and 79.7 ± 1.19 MJ), respectively (Р ≥ 0.95). Groups I and II had higher proportion of exchange energy — by 6.14 and 8.39 absolute %. “Sakhabaktisubtil” used in the spring-winter period improved the effectiveness of energy metabolism. Starter feeds used in winter increased daily average weight gain by 7 and 9%. Providing sufficient concentrations of Fe, Co and I effectively maintained animal weight in winter.

74 Comparison between timothy hay and Italian ryegrass haylage for the main grass feed for the maintenance horses

The objectives of this experiment were to investigate if the domestic Italian Ryegrass (IRG) haylage is a suitable feed for maintenance horses. Thoroughbred horses (n = 10) were confined to a stall and provided the fixed amount of hay and haylage 3 times daily for 2 experimental periods. The first experiment was conducted for 11 d to observe horses’ preferences such as the first choice and the residuals of forages. The fixed amount of 1,500g of timothy hay and 1,500g of domestic IRG haylage was given 3 times at 08:30, 12:00, 16:30 to each horse at the same time and was assessed for first choice and the feed residuals. The 7 d were for the study to begin to adapt to the experimental conditions and the experiments were conducted from the 8th to 11th of the experimental day. The second experiment was to observe horses’ performance comparing the domestic IRG haylage and timothy hay affecting changes in the BCS and weight for horses and the eating time. Horses were offered the fixed amount of 3,000g of timothy hay and 3,000g of domestic IRG haylage was given 3 times at 08:30, 12:00, 16:30 to each horse at the same time. The results were recorded at 12:00 on d 0 and d 30. The chemical components of IRG haylage were greater in crude protein (16.26 vs 9.35%), ether extract (3.98 vs 3.15%), and ash (10.37 vs 6.97%). Timothy hay was higher in dry matter (91.4 vs 97.5%), crude fiber (24.9 vs 22.6%), and NFE (47 vs 34.3%). No mycotoxins were found in forages such as Aflatoxin B1, B2, G1, G2, A, and Ochratoxin A. The chi-squared test was used to compare the scores for preferences among horses. The weight and the body condition score (BCS) were compared using the student t -test. The mixed model with an ANOVA was used for the feed residuals and the eating duration. The level of significance was set at P < 0.05. Horses have not shown significant differences for preference tests. The average residuals of timothy hay were significantly lesser than the domestic IRG. The average eating time of forages was not statistically different. The BCS and the weight of horses were not significantly different. In conclusion, the domestic IRG haylage can be a cost-effective alternative feed for maintenance horses.

42 Feeding stalled horses a diet high omega-3 fatty acids results in a plasma fatty acid profile similar to horses on pasture

Omega-3 fatty acids (O-3) are a popular topic in equine nutrition, but it is not commonly acknowledged that a prevalent source of O-3 in a horse's diet can be from pasture. Pasture is low fat, but O-3 are the largest fraction, and horses on pasture have higher circulating O-3 than horses without pasture access. Therefore, the objective of these studies was to test the hypothesis that a feed high in O-3 that also matches the ratio of O-3:omega-6 (O-6) in pasture, would increase stalled horses’ plasma O-3 and result in a similar fatty acid profile to pastured horses. Three identical trials were completed between 2017 and 2020. Mature American Quarter Horses (n = 10 per trial; 610.5 ± 14 kg BW) were offered 0.9 kg per 454 kg BW Purina Omega Match Horse Feed (OM) and 2.0% BW Timothy hay split into equal meals (0700 a.m., 1300 p.m.) starting on d 1 of the trial. Horses were housed in individual stalls with attached dry lot turnouts for the duration of each study. The feed had a minimum of 3.5% O-3 with an O-3:O-6 ratio of 2.6. Baseline blood samples were obtained via jugular venipuncture into potassium oxalate tubes before transition to the experimental diet (d 0), and all horses were consuming a variety of other PurinaⓇ feeds before transition. Blood samples were collected on d 30 and 60 post dietary transition. Also, at d 60, blood samples were obtained from 10 horses each year at the Purina Animal Nutrition Center (Gray Summit, MO) that had free-choice access to mixed fescue pasture. These 10 horses were also fed 1.8 kg of Purina Strategy to meet nutritional needs and maintain body weight. All samples were obtained before AM feeding, were immediately centrifuged, and plasma collected for analysis. Fatty acids were analyzed via gas chromatographic-mass spectral analysis of fatty acid methyl esters. Data were analyzed using an ANOVA in SAS 9.4 (Cary, NC). All data are mean ± SD, ug/mL. Plasma O-3 levels increased from baseline (2.07 ± 0.54) to d 60 (6.29 ± 1.82) in horses consuming OM (P < 0.05). Conversely, plasma O-6 levels decreased from baseline (47.21 ± 3.86) to d 30 (42.56 ± 5.47) and remained lower at d 60 (43.89 ± 4.78) in horses consuming OM (P < 0.05). At d 60, horses consuming OM had similar plasma levels of O-3 (6.29 ± 1.82 vs 6.76 ± 2.01, P = 0.45) and O-6 (43.89 ± 4.78 vs 42.36 ± 5.80, P = 0.37) as horses on pasture, respectively. In conclusion, a feed formulated with a high level of O-3 can alter horses’ plasma O-3 concentrations until they match those of horses on pasture. This technique is helpful to boost horses’ O-3 values if they cannot tolerate pasture grass or simply do not have access to it.

64 Feeding elite equine athletes: Perspectives from high-goal polo and endurance riding competitors

Knowing equine stakeholder feeding practices can better inform research, extension, and education programs. The objective of this exploratory survey was to describe feeding management and activity of horses performing at elite levels in polo and endurance riding. High-goal polo participants were targeted for survey distribution through a polo magazine publication during the winter of 2018. A researcher recruited endurance riders to participate at an American Endurance Ride Conference sanctioned event held in Florida during March 2018. Participants were contacted 3 times to complete a questionnaire to describe horse management practices, dietary information, and preferences with regards to equine nutrition. Eight of 11 (72.7%) polo players and 9 of 22 (40.9%) endurance riders completed the survey. Seventy-six percent of barns (13/17) were located in Florida at the time of survey completion. To compare disciplines, continuous data were analyzed using t -test and categorical data using a Mann-Whitney U-Test. Polo ponies were fed alfalfa hay, with 50% (4/8) of respondents predominately feeding alfalfa hay, and the remaining feeding alfalfa/grass hay mixtures. Endurance horses were more likely ( P = 0.056) to have ad libitum access (7/9) to forage than polo ponies (2/8), likely because most endurance horses were housed on pasture (6/9). For hay, nutritional value was extremely important in forage selection decisions for both polo and endurance sports. Polo respondents were more likely to value ( P = 0.018) forage color and smell than endurance participants. All respondents reported feeding their horses grain or concentrate, a typical recommendation for feeding horses with elevated nutrient requirements due to increased workload. Nutritional value was the most important factor for selection of grain or concentrate, followed by feed availability, veterinarian or nutritionist recommendation, feed manufacturer reputation, cost, or industry professional recommendation, in order of preference. Polo ponies worked an average of 51 ± 24 min/d (STD DEV) 6 times per week. Endurance horses worked longer (115 ± 52 min/d, P = 0.007) but less frequently (4 times per week, P = 0.001) than polo ponies. Polo ponies tended to compete more frequently (3.9 ± 2.3 times per month, P = 0.101) than endurance horses (1.8 ± 0.7). During a race, endurance horses were fed more frequently and offered different feeds than the typical ration. These data indicate feeding management preferences are specific to athletic activities. Widespread use of this questionnaire could help target equine educational programs to the needs of the industry.

Feed Concentrate Palatability in Welsh Ponies: Acceptance and Preference of Flavors

In horses, it is well established that nutrients and the palatability of feed material (odor and taste) play an important role in diet selection. For example, high-fiber feed taste is not well accepted by horses. Consequently, manufacturers have begun to supplement horse feed with flavors to mask feed bitterness, to overcome feed neophobia and to encourage water drinking. However, only few studies have been performed to evaluate the acceptance and preference of flavors in horses. The aim of this study was to evaluate the acceptance and preference of flavors supplemented on top of concentrate offered to ponies. Thirty-three female Welsh ponies aged between four to 13 years were enrolled in the experiment. Ponies were offered 4 flavored concentrates and one control with no flavor. The flavored concentrates were anise, caramel, raspberry and apple. The inclusion rate of the flavors was 300 g/t on an as-is basis. During the adaptation period (one week), the ponies were gently guided to each bucket containing the flavored concentrate (200 g) during 10 sec/bucket for olfaction only. During the test period, ponies were allowed to freely choose flavored concentrates for 2 minutes. The flavors and the position of the buckets in front of the ponies were randomized. Each period was video-recorded and number of chews were counted during test period. The concentrate intake, eating time, and animal behavior were recorded during the test period. The apple concentrate was consumed the most at 116 g/2-min offering, whereas the raspberry and control concentrates were consumed the least, at 85.31 and 90.80 g/2-min offering, respectively. Apple flavor was preferred over caramel, raspberry and anise as indicated by higher consumption rate (g/sec) (chi-squared=16.68, df=4, P<0.05). There was no effects on chews, smell or headshaking time per sec between treatments. In conclusion, the ponies accepted a wide range of flavors with a preference for apple over raspberry flavored concentrate.

Safety and efficacy of an additive consisting of synthetic vitamin K1 (phytomenadione) for horses (JARAZ Enterprises GmbH & Co. KG).

Following a request from the European Commission, the Panel on Additives and Products or Substances used in Animal Feed (FEEDAP) was asked to deliver a scientific opinion on the safety and efficacy of a feed additive consisting of vitamin K1 (phytomenadione) produced by chemical synthesis when used as a nutritional additive in complementary feed of horses at a maximum supplemental level of 14 mg vitamin K1/horse per day. The use of vitamin K1 is safe when used as a feed additive for horses under the proposed conditions of use. The use of vitamin K1 in nutrition of horses under the proposed conditions of use is considered safe for the consumer and the environment. No exposure of users by inhalation is expected. The Panel cannot conclude on the potential of the additive to be a skin and eye irritant. Vitamin K1 is considered a moderate dermal sensitiser. Vitamin K1 is an effective source of vitamin K in horse nutrition. The Panel recommends that the specifications of the additive refer to the substance‐related impurities listed in the most updated monograph of the European Pharmacopoeia.

The effect of time of feeding on plasma amino acids during exercise and recovery in horses.

Feeding management in horses suggests feeding horses in advance of exercise, particularly the grain portion of the diet. Plasma amino acids (AA) peak at 3 to 6 h postfeeding depending on the AA. The timeframe between feeding and exercise may affect the availability of AA during and after exercise. The purpose of this study was to observe the differences in plasma AA in horses fed prior to exercise or after exercise. Eight light type horses were fed a diet with adequate protein and AA for horses in light to moderate exercise. After an adjustment period, horses completed a standardized exercise test (SET). Relative to the SET, horses were fed either 2 h prior (PRE horses) to the SET, 1 h after completing the SET (POST horses), or horses remained fasted throughout the sampling period (FASTED horses). Plasma was drawn prior to exercise, at the peak of exercise as well as at 1, 2, 4, and 7 h postexercise. Plasma was analyzed for AA, glucose, lactate, creatinine, creatine kinase, ammonia, urea-N, and 3-methylhistdine. After completion of the SET and sampling period, horses entered a 1-wk recovery period, which was followed by another SET. The protocol repeated until horses rotated through all feeding protocols in the study (three SETs). The majority of the plasma AA were elevated in PRE horses compared with POST horses prior to the SET until 2 h postexercise where POST horses’ plasma AA concentrations became elevated and remained elevated until the end of the sampling period. In that same time frame, plasma AA for the PRE group decreased out to the end of the sampling period. The elevation of plasma AA in POST horses would be expected as they were fed at 1 h postexercise, whereas PRE horses were reaching a 4 h postfeeding time frame at this point. This elevation was not observed for plasma concentrations of isoleucine, leucine, methionine, and histidine. Concentrations of these AA initially were greater for POST horses in the postexercise period; however, they declined more rapidly than the other AA. The rapid decrease of some of the plasma AA concentrations may suggest uptake by muscle for recovery. This in conjunction with a decrease in plasma creatine kinase concentrations for POST horses suggests that feeding postexercise may facilitate better muscle protein balance (synthesis vs. breakdown) in the recovery period following exercise.

Effects of different feed components and the treatment of the litter on the ammonia emission of equine urine

The main goal of our research was to study the effects of different feed components and the treatment of the litter on the NH3 emission of equine urine. Four adult horses were used in the experiment. The basic diet consisted of 1500 g mashed oat, fed twice a day (morning and evening), and ad libitum hay. During the night the horses were kept separately in concrete floor boxes, the litter was wheat straw. The whole study was divided into 3 main periods. In the first period of the experiment the litter and the floor were treated with a probiotic supplement for two days in the evenings. In the second period of the experiment for 8 days the basic diet was supplemented with 40 ml of probiotic added to the oat. Before the third period of our study the horses were fed with their regular diet for two weeks. After that the oat was changed to a high-protein-value horse feed for 12 days. At the end of the second and third periods, the litter was treated again. Urine contaminated straw samples were collected after each period before and after the litter treatments from different places of the litter in the morning before the daily littering. From the samples, the dry matter content and the NH3 emission were measured. Statistical analysis was carried out with linear modelling. According to our results, both the probiotic treatment of the feed and the high-protein-value horse feed decreased the urine NH3 emission significantly (p&lt;0.05). However, the NH3 emission was only slightly influenced by the litter treatment. Only in the case of probiotic feed supplement could a decrease in emission be detected, but the result was not significant. There was no difference in the dry matter content of the samples. Based on our results, we can conclude that both the high-protein-value horse feed and the probiotic supplement applied in our experiment can be useful to decrease urine NH3 emission by horses. The two-days litter treatment however seems to be too short to gain any positive effects.

Behavior of horses kept in different types of stalls in the semiarid region of Minas Gerais, Brazil

The objective of this study was to evaluate the feeding and agonistic behavior of Quarter Horses kept in different types of stalls in the semiarid region of Minas Gerais. A completely randomized design with two treatments (two types of stalls) and seven replicates (seven days of evaluation) was used. Four Quarter Horse mares and four stallions were used per treatment. Behavioral observations were made at 10-minute intervals for 24 hours. The stall environment was characterized by the following variables: air temperature, relative humidity, and black globe temperature for subsequent estimation of the wet-bulb globe temperature. Feeding behavior variables included: time spent eating concentrate and time spent eating roughage (hours), bite rate (bites/min), and the number of daily bites (bites/day). Zinc-roofed stalls had higher air temperatures than clay-roofed stalls and the external environment, averaging 28.2, 27.0, and 27.4 ºC, respectively, while relative humidity was significantly lower in the external environment (65.80%). Horses housed in zinc-roofed stalls had longer feeding times (8.32 h) than animals kept in clay-roofed stalls (7.22 h). Approximately 94% of the total feeding time was spent eating roughage and 73% of the time was spent resting and walking, regardless of the covering type. Although environmental variables showed thermal discomfort, the roofing material did not alter the feeding behavior of stabled horses in the semiarid region of Minas Gerais, suggesting an adaptation to the studied conditions. The feeding frequency should be increased to avoid a long resting time.

PSVII-12 Acceptability of Milne blueberry juice and blueberry puree in horse feed

Abstract The objective of this study was to evaluate the impact of liquid blueberry juice (BJ65) or blueberry puree (BP30) used as a binding agent on pellet durability and palatability of a typical equine concentrate when included at 4% of the pellet. Molasses was used as a control. Production data, pellet durability and moisture content were evaluated in 1 replicate for each treatment. Because moisture content of condition mashes were 17.59% and 18.11% for BJ65 and BP30 treatments, respectively, greater inclusion of blueberry product would likely cause roller slippage and complicate the pelleting process due to increased liquid (Fahrenholz, 2012). Pellet durability met industry standards for all treatments. Pellets were fed in a 3 x 3 Latin square design to 9 two-year-old horses to determine the effect of blueberry products on acceptability. All animals were allowed 10 minutes to consume 1.36 kg at 0700 h and 1700 h each day for 3 d. Consumption time and amount consumed were recorded to calculate intake, intake rate, and intake ratio (IR). No horse consumed all pellets within the allotted time, and thus, there were no differences between intake rate and intake. Period tended to impact intake (P = 0.0909), with horses consuming less during period 1 than period 3 (P = 0.0317), but period had no effect (P = 0.2881) on IR. Treatment influenced intake (P &amp;lt; 0.0001), with decreased intake of BP30 compared to control and BJ65 (P ≤ 0.0001). Intake ratio was greater (P = 0.0075) for BJ65 than BP30 with IR of 0.5069 and 0.4227, respectively. Consumption of BJ65 was no different than control. Fahrenholz, A. 2012. Evaluating factors affecting pellet durability and energy consumption in a pilot feed mill and comparing methods for evaluating pellet durability. Doctoral thesis. Kansas State University, Manhattan, KS.

359 Awardee Talk: Equine Science: A community that grew

Abstract Research, teaching, and extension related to horse production and management was once a part of land grant universities. Extension publications from the 1900s noted equine research and how to use that research in the feeding and management of horses used primarily for agricultural purposes. As the use of the horse in agriculture declined, so did the activities related to horses at those institutions. Times changed, and as horses regained in popularity for sport and recreation, so did the need for research, teaching, and extension. In the late 1960s, a group of researchers who were doing nutrition research on horses gathered to discuss the possibility of providing a forum for promoting equine research, facilitating effective communications between those who could use the information and develop a symposium. From this conversation came the Equine Nutrition and Physiology Society. The first meeting was held in 1968 in Lexington, Kentucky; with over 20 participants, the society started to meet its goals. The original materials presented were related to nutrition and digestive physiology, but the focus has expanded to include reproductive physiology, exercise physiology, genetics, biosciences and production and management. In addition to the research topics, there are also sections for those involved with Extension and Teaching to discuss how to use the new information. The support of graduate students has grown since they were first invited in 1977 to current participation across the spectrum of research topics and the addition of a strong undergraduate research section as well. The society started with 20 plus in attendance and grew to a membership of over 300 from around the world who come together every two years to discuss topics related to the horse.

Process Management in Food Supply Chains: A Case Study

Purpose: The aim of this article is to identify processes in the horses feed supply chains implemented for the needs of sporting stables, together with an indication of the factors determining their efficient management and to propose methods to improve the process. Design/Approach: The research was conducted using qualitative methods. As part of the research procedure, process analysis was carried out using the method of mapping processes in the horse feed supply chain. To analyse and evaluate the examined processes were presented in the form of graphical maps developed using the iGrafx software. Findings: The results of the study indicate that the coordination and integration of logistics processes has a significant impact on the efficiency of the feed supply chain. It is necessary to focus process management on building partnerships in the supply chain to ensure high quality horse nutrition. Practical Implications: The results can be used to improve the supply chain, which is important for owners, breeders, trainers, and animal caregivers - as well as sports, insurance, or veterinary institutions. Nutritional issues are subject to detailed analysis in the event of success and at the time of occurrence of health problems ending with surgical intervention or death of the horse. Originality/Value: Due to the growing importance of these issues for the efficient operation of the feed chain for horses, it is necessary to understand and promote the aspect of coherent, integrated process management in the scientific and practical dimension. An important element of breeding and training activities is the proper recognition of individual elements and relationships in feed supply chains, as well as the factors determining them.

Hematology Profiles of Sandalwood Ponies in West Sumba Region on the Transition from Dry to Rainy Season 2019

Sumba is one of the original habitats of the Sandalwood Ponies and the presence of pony is an important element for the community. The Sumbanese herd their ponies in the savanna and rely on nature as a source of horse feed, so on the dry season the availability of feed will decrease dramatically. This condition can potentially reduce the health status of ponies and increase morbidity or mortality from diseases. A total of 20 local Sumba ponies of various sexes and ages between 3-8 years of age were used on this study. Three milliliters of blood were drawn through the jugular vein and put in the EDTA tube. Hematological examination was carried out at the Department of Clinical Pathology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Universitas Gadjah Mada, Yogyakarta. Erythrocytes (RBC), hematocrit (PCV), hemoglobin (Hb), leukocytes (WBC), neutrophil (neu), lymphocyte (lim), eosinophil (eos), basophil (bas), monocyte (mon) were examined using the automatic hematology analyzer Abaxis HM 5. Blood smear were done to see the possibility of blood parasites. Hematology examination shows that 20% (4/20) of horses had leukopenia, 55% (11/20) of horses had neutropenia, 50% of the ponies had anemia (10% [2/20] low RBC, 50% [10/20] low hemoglobin, and 20% [4/20] had decreased on PCV), 80% [16/20] hypochromia, 10% (2/20) had thrombocytopenia, and 5% (1/20) had thrombocytosis. All of the sample were negative from the blood parasites by blood smear examination. Key words : hematology, sandalwood pony, Sumba

Efficiency of alfalfa granulated feed additive in balanced ration of Ukrainian Riding Horse

We established positive influence of granulated alfalfa feed on the growth, development intensity, and sport qualities of the race horses. We registered the increase in live weight of young horses, which consumed the full granulated alfalfa feed by 8.0-9.8%. These animals had a more pronounced constitutional breed type. Thus, at the age of 18 months, they outclassed their peers in main linear dimensions: they had higher values of thoracic development (by 4.6%), higher thoracic diameter (by 4.5%), higher body length (by 5.7%). At the age of 24 months, these advantages were 6.4, 8.2, and 6.0% respectively. We found that the colts and fillies in the experimental group at the age of 12 months outperformed the same year horses from the control group by 1.1% by the index of format. Further, at the age of 18 and 24 months, the animals of the experimental group outperformed their counterparts from the control group by 0.2 and 0.4%, respectively. In terms of breast circumference index, the advantage of the exerimentary group animals at the age of 12 months was 0.1%, at the age of 18 months - 1.7%, at the age of 24 months - 1.8%, respectively. Similar results were recorded for the compactness index, where the advantage at the age of 12 months was 1.2%, at 18 months - 1.9%, at 24 months - 2.3% respectively. The effective use of environmentally friendly feed is confirmed by the results of hematological blood tests. It was found that for the vast majority of indicators they correspond to the physiological norm. This blood composition naturally characterizes changes in horses during the whole period of research. The received hematological profile is the basic characteristic of the state of health of horses in the research enterprise.

The influence of non-traditional feed additives on the productivity of horses in Yakutia

The article presents data from the results of a study to determine the effectiveness of using unconventional feed additives for horse productivity in Yakutia. To conduct scientific experiments, 3 groups of horses of the indigenous Yakut breed were formed, 12 animals each. In order to enrich animal diets by macro and microelements, as well as to increase horse productivity in winter, the effect of zeolite-sapropelic feed additives on milk production and physiological state of animals was studied. In the process of conducting research, the following methods were used: biochemical, physiological, biometric and economic research methods. As a result of the research, it was found that the use of feed additives in feeding horses contributed to an increase in the milk yield of the experimental groups of mares 10.42% and 14.89%. At the same time, annual milk yield increased by 10.43% and 14.98%. It was found that the feed additive contributed to the improvement of the qualitative composition of milk, so for fat by 0.15% and 0.16% and protein by 0.19% and 0.32%. A study of the physiological status of animals found that the feed additives affected the biochemical composition of blood. An increase of albumin by 5.95% and 9.52%, globulin - by 1.37% and 3.42%, hemoglobin - by 1.74% and 3.20% was found in animals consuming feed additives. Analysis of the economic efficiency of the use of zeolite-sapropel feed additives in feeding mares has shown that in the experimental groups consuming feed additives, the profitability was 27.34% and 32.33%. Studies have proved the perspectivityof the use of organic mineral feed additives in feeding horses in the conditions of Yakutia.