AUTUMN 2010
BRINGING BETTER HEALTH TO YOUR HORSES
GASTRIC ULCERS
Hair cortisol: new screening tool?
A PRIMER ON TYING-UP
The signs, diagnosis, treatment
POLO FOR THE PONIES
Great match made on, off the field
WESTERN COLLEGE OF VETERINARY MEDICINE • EQUINE HEALTH RESEARCH FUND
I N S I D E
3 “I’m Just a Curious Guy”
A profile of Dr. Andy Allen — veterinary pathologist, researcher and
“general manager” for equine sarcoid research projects at the WCVM.
5 Operation Lipizzaner
When a herd of Croatian Lipizzaner horses were in urgent need of
medical supplies, Dr. Pat Haugh (WCVM ‘82) pitched in to help the
famous horses.
6 Equi-research @ WCVM
A WCVM research team reports on the rate of methicillin-resistant
Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) colonization in western Canadian horses.
7 Gastric Ulcers Prevalent in Saskatchewan
Racehorses
Researchers find gastric ulcers in majority of racehorses that participated
in a recent WCVM study.
9 Tying-up Syndrome: A Primer
FUNDRAISING HAT TRICK: When Lot #2 was led into the
sales ring at Regina’s Heartland Livestock on September 11, it wasn’t
just the palomino colt’s flashy looks that stirred up excitement among
the crowd at the 2010 September Showcase. The sturdy weanling
attracted plenty of attention as well as bids because he was this year’s
“gift foal” — part of a multi-year fundraising venture organized by
his breeders, Bob and Lois Brickley of Moose Mountain Ranch. For the
third year in a row, the couple from Kennedy, Sask., decided to donate
the proceeds of a foal at their annual production sale to the Western
College of Veterinary Medicine’s Equine Health Research Fund.
What made this year’s contribution even more exciting was that
the initial buyer, Crescent Point Energy, purchased the foal for $1,200
and then donated the colt back to the sale. The Calgary-based energy
company, which has a longtime business relationship with Moose
Mountain Ranch, wanted to show their support of the Brickleys’
dedication to horse health care. During the second round of bidding,
auctioneer Don Peacock of Maple Creek, Sask., purchased the foal for
$550.
The Brickleys donated the entire $1,750 to the EHRF, and in turn,
the Heather Ryan and L. David Dubé Foundation matched the amount
through its matching gift program. As a result of the Brickleys’ efforts,
$3,500 was raised for equine health research and training programs at
the veterinary college. After three years of foal sales, the Brickleys have
donated a total of $2,975 to the EHRF. Thanks to the matching gift
incentive program at the WCVM, that amount has doubled to $5,950.
WCVM’s Dr. Katharina Lohmann talks about clinical signs, diagnoses
and treatment of the varying types of exertional rhabdomyolyses.
12 Polo for the Ponies
A day of friendly competition on the polo fields yields impressive results
for equine research at the WCVM.
13 EHRF Donors and Year in Review
FRONT COVER: Fourth-year veterinary student Vicki Patrie visits with
one of the horses in Marquis Downs’ backstretch during a WCVM
Veterinary Teaching Hospital field service call.
ABOVE: Ailsa Antilla and Celtic Fyre, an eight-year-old Connemara
mare, compete in the TELUS Battle of the Breeds Barrel Race
competition at Spruce Meadows’ Masters on Sept. 10.
H O R S E
H E A L T H
L I N E S
Horse Health Lines is produced by the Western College of Veterinary Medicine’s
Equine Health Research Fund. Visit www.ehrf.usask.ca for more information. Please
send comments to:
Dr. Hugh Townsend, Editor, Horse Health Lines
WCVM, University of Saskatchewan
52 Campus Drive, Saskatoon, SK S7N 5B4
Tel: 306-966-7453 • Fax: 306-966-7274
wcvm.research@usask.ca
For article reprint information, please contact sm.ridley@sasktel.net.
Auctioneer Don Peacock (left) admires his new colt
that was bred by Bob Brickley (right) of Kennedy,
Sask.
WCVM STUDENT IN WINNER’S CIRCLE:
Fourth-year veterinary student Dane Tatarniuk of
Yorkton, Sask., was one of 32 North American veterinary
students who received $1,500 in financial support
through the Winner’s Circle Scholarship program.
The program honours fourth-year students for their
involvement at their veterinary schools and dedication
to careers in equine practice. Its sponsors include the
American Association of Equine Practitioners (AAEP)
Foundation, Platinum Performance and The Race for
Education.
After his first year at the WCVM, Tatarniuk worked
with Drs. James Carmalt and Chris Bell as a summer
research student and was involved in developing a new,
minimally invasive treatment for equine sinusitis (see
Horse Health Lines/Summer 2009). During his third
year of the DVM program, Tatarniuk served as president
for the WCVM Equine Club and took a number of equinefocused elective courses. After Tatarniuk graduates in
2011, his plans include a one-year equine internship and
applying for a residency in large animal surgery.
FALL HORSE SHOW SPONSORS HORSE HEALTH: When
horse enthusiasts gather at Willow Ridge Stables on November 6 and 7 for
one of the last shows of the season, they will be doing more than competing
for ribbons. Presented by the Willow Ridge Riders, the “Signs of Autumn
Benefit Show” is also helping to support vital equine health research and
training programs at the WCVM.
Inspired by this summer’s “Polo for the Ponies” benefit match at
Willow Ridge Stables (see page 12 for more information), the horse show’s
organizers decided to focus their sponsorship efforts on helping the health
and welfare of horses. As part of the show’s registration form, the Willow
Ridge Riders are encouraging riders to sign up sponsors in support of the
College’s Equine Health Research Fund. In turn, all sponsorship dollars will
be matched by the Heather Ryan and L. David Dubé Foundation — doubling
the benefit for horse health.
Participants will also have the chance to win door prizes as well as
the highest sponsorship total award. For more details, contact Michael
Yingbull (306-652-5408 or michael.yingbull@gmail.com) or visit www.
willowridgestables.com.
KENTUCKY-STYLE EDUCATION: During the Labour Day weekend
in September, a group of 17 WCVM veterinary students travelled to Lexington,
Ky., for the Opportunities in Equine Practice Seminar (OEPS). Created by
Rood & Riddle Equine Hospital, the annual recruiting event attracts more
than 500 third-year veterinary students from the United States and Canada.
The three-day weekend included presentations on equine career
opportunities and plenty of chances for students to meet one-on-one with
representatives from nearly 40 equine veterinary practices from across North
America in the practice exhibit area. Besides touring local farms and equine
hospitals, the students visited the renowned Keeneland race course and
Kentucky Horse Park — home of this year’s World Equestrian Games.
WCVM ON TOUR: Western Canadian horse owners will have the
chance to check out the WCVM’s equine health and training programs
at upcoming events in the next few months. In mid-October, the College
took part in the Mane Event in Chilliwack, B.C., that annually attracts
Above (left to right): L. David Dubé, Heather Ryan, award
recipient Dr. Anna Sangster and Dr. Doug Freeman, dean of
the WCVM.
thousands of horse enthusiasts from B.C., Alberta and the northwestern
U.S. Another WCVM team will be in Regina for the Canadian Western
Agribition that takes place from November 22-27. Representatives from
the College will also travel to Red Deer for the annual Alberta Horse
Breeders and Owners Conference that’s set for January 14-16, 2011.
Make sure to stop by and say hello — our WCVM teams will be happy to meet
you!
EQUINE ADVOCATE AWARD: WCVM graduate Dr. Anna
Sangster was the 2010 recipient of the “Dino and Dr. Ashburner Award in
Equine Care” at the College’s Spring Awards program in early June. Sangster
personally received the $7,200 award from Heather Ryan and L. David Dubé,
the Saskatoon couple who established the award in honour of their quarter
horse Dino and Dr. Sue Ashburner — a field service veterinarian at the
WCVM. The award is annually presented to a senior student who has provided
compassionate care for their equine patients during their fourth-year clinical
rotations and has acted as their patients’ advocate.
Sangster, whose hometown is Calgary, Alta., spent the summer of
2008 working as a research student with Drs. Fernando Marqués and Steve
Manning. Their project focused on fecal and nasal shedding of Rhodococcus
equi in foals. Sangster was also an active member of the WCVM Equine Club
during her four years at the veterinary college.
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Western College of Veterinar y Medicine
2
D
r. Andrew Allen isn’t afraid to
ask questions — even when he’s
challenging universally accepted ideas
in animal health.
“I guess I’m just a curious guy,” says the
professor of veterinary pathology at the Western
College of Veterinary Medicine. “When I get
involved in research, sometimes it’s based on my
own ideas and sometimes I’m there to support the
work of others in the building or on campus.”
Allen sees himself as a diagnostic pathologist
and teacher first. But curiosity has led to his
involvement in a number of research projects
during his time at the WCVM.
A 1987 DVM graduate of the College, Allen
spent some time in private practice before
returning to the WCVM for graduate work in
veterinary pathology. After completing a Master of
Veterinary Science (MVetSc) degree in 1992, Allen
went on to finish his PhD in 1997.
Allen’s graduate research focused on
equine congenital hypothyroidism, a disease
that results in the birth of dysmature foals with
musculoskeletal deformities. His studies, which
were financially supported in part by the WCVM’s
Equine Health Research Fund, proved the disease
was due to fetal hypothyroidism. His research
also identified risk factors that, when corrected,
aided in reducing the number of congenital
hypothyroidism cases in Western Canada.
Allen conducted further studies of the
orthopedic condition after joining WCVM’s faculty
in 1997. One study set out to recreate the disease in
pregnant mares within a controlled environment.
In a second project, Allen and graduate student
Dr. Genevieve D’Amours experimentally induced
congenital hypothyroidism in guinea pigs to show
that the laboratory animal could be used as a
model for studying the disease in horses.
Allen’s knowledge of bone pathology and
“knowing my way around a horse a bit” has
brought other research opportunities his way.
The College’s large animal surgeons — Drs. Peter
Fretz, David Wilson, Spencer Barber and James
Carmalt — have asked Allen for his diagnostic
expertise in a number of equine-related projects.
He has also contributed to studies that focus on Rhodococcus equi and
potential vaccine development, undertaken by Drs. Hugh Townsend and
Katharina Lohmann. Over the next two years, Allen will work with PhD
student Dr. Francesca Sampieri as well as other researchers in the Department
of Veterinary Biomedical Sciences and at the U of S Canadian Light Source
who are investigating the efficacy of using gallium as an alternative therapy
for equine proliferative enteropathy. This latest project uses rabbits and
hamsters as models and draws on Allen’s previous experience with lab
animals.
In companion animal health, Allen worked with MVetSc student
Sebastian Brennan on a canine brucellosis study. Another small animal
DR. ANDREW ALLEN
“I’m just a curious guy”
3
Horse Health Lines • Autumn 2010
project was initiated during Allen’s sabbatical leave at Colorado State
University in 2003 where he teamed up with oncologist Dr. Stephen Withrow
and Dr. Barb Powers, a veterinary pathologist. The project looked at the
diagnoses, clinical outcomes and diagnostic accuracy associated with
surgically amputated digits of cats and dogs, and it eventually became the
MVetSc project for Allen’s graduate student, Dr. Bruce Wobeser.
Then, when Wobeser decided to work toward his PhD degree, he and
Allen selected the topic of equine sarcoids — the most commonly diagnosed
skin tumour in horses.
“Some research had been done in the U.S. and Europe that showed two
different bovine papillomaviruses — BPV-1 and BPV-2 — were associated
“For me, the overarching
question is what’s the role
of bovine papillomavirus
(BPV)
in sarcoid development?
Researchers have recently
written that BPV is the cause of
equine sarcoids, but our response
is that it’s not that simple.”
with these sarcoids. But we didn’t know if that was true in Western Canada
because the work hadn’t been done, so that’s where we started,” explains
Allen.
With support from the Equine Health Research Fund, their first step was
an epidemiological study of sarcoids in western Canadian horses. In previous
studies, researchers found BPV-1 in about 80 per cent of tumours. But after
evaluating more than 800 biopsies, Allen and Wobeser found the opposite:
BPV-2 was found in 80 per cent of the region’s tumour biopsies.
Allen and Wobeser also confirmed that sarcoids develop and grow
larger because they can evade the process of programmed cell death called
apoptosis. That finding has opened the door for further research: “Can we
trick these cells into undergoing apoptosis? It’s a basic question with an
answer that may have therapeutic potential,” says Allen.
As diagnostic pathologists, Allen and Wobeser probably won’t be involved
in developing a sarcoid therapy — but they may
contribute to the effort. Plus, they hope their results
will help to develop a faster, more accurate diagnostic
test for sarcoids.
Knowledge gained from their first two studies also
prompted Allen and Wobeser to question BPV’s role in
sarcoid development. As Allen points out, the idea that
BPV causes equine sarcoids means that researchers
have to accept several exceptions.
For example, BPV can cross species while all other
papillomaviruses are species-specific. Secondly, unlike
other viral infections where the virus invades a cell and
reproduces more virus, that doesn’t seem to be the case
with BPV. And oddly, scientist can also find BPV in the
normal skin of horses diagnosed with sarcoids and all
of this information is based on identifying only parts of
the virus’ DNA. “So it began to raise the question: how
ubiquitous is BPV infection in horses?” says Allen.
That question has led to the team’s next project
where Wobeser is using three diagnostic methods to
detect and localize BPV in biopsies of other equine
Dr. Bruce Wobeser, now an assistant professor in WCVM’s Department of
inflammatory skin conditions besides sarcoids.
Veterinary Pathology.
Preliminary analysis shows that BPV DNA is found
in biopsies representing various other equine skin
conditions.
“We could all look at the same problem from different perspectives and
“For me, the overarching question is what’s the role of BPV in sarcoid
give our takes on it. That’s been a valuable process throughout various stages
development? Researchers have recently written that BPV is the cause of
of the research,” says Allen.
equine sarcoids, but our response is that it’s not that simple,” says Allen.
While they may not have developed new diagnostic tests or therapies for
Wobeser, who joined the WCVM faculty on July 1, may continue pursuing
equine sarcoids, their efforts in critiquing the assumptions about sarcoids
the sarcoid puzzle. As for Allen, he’s always considered himself more of the
have provided another value. “We didn’t start out to do this: we thought we
“general manager” of the sarcoid studies rather than a principal investigator.
would study sarcoids and find some practical applications along the way. But
“Bruce wanted to do these studies, and since he has tremendous
the further we got into it, we said, ‘Geez, wait a minute,’ and that changed
potential, I wanted to help him. And so it was my role to secure the funding,
our direction,” explains Allen.
the tools, and the expertise he needed to succeed. But without the input
“But you know, people thought the world was flat for awhile. What if no
of other members of his committee, this work wouldn’t have been done,”
one had challenged that assumption and sailed off to the horizon to see what
explains Allen. He adds that the EHRF along with the Equine Foundation of
was out there? That’s what makes research so interesting.” H
Canada, provided funding for the team’s latest research initiative.
Team members include Drs. Beverly Kidney and Marion Jackson,
Reprinted from the 2009 WCVM Research Report.
pathologists with expertise in viral oncogenesis; microbiologist Dr. Janet Hill,
To
read
more profiles of WCVM researchers, please
who specializes in molecular diagnostics; Dr. Monique Mayer, a radiation
visit www.wcvm.com/research and click on “Research
oncologist; and Dr. Hugh Townsend, an epidemiologist who has clinical
Report.”
expertise in equine infections. Research technician Betty Lockerbie has also
been a key resource for Wobeser.
Western College of Veterinar y Medicine
4
Photo: iStockphoto.com
By Lynne Gunville
NEW FEATURE: VETS WITH HEART
OPERATION
LIPIZZANER
When Dr. Pat Haugh (WCVM ’82) had the
chance to visit the Lipizzaner stud farm near
Vienna, Austria, the Winnipeg veterinarian
never dreamed that one day she would be a
key player in a mission to preserve the famous
horses’ Croatian kin during the conflict in the
Balkans.
The story began in 1991 when a number of Lipizzaner horses were injured or
killed during intense bombing at the breed’s historic stud farm near Lipik, Croatia. In
an effort to save the remaining horses, the farm’s keepers moved the animals and kept
them hidden. However, the horses eventually ended up in poor health and in urgent
need of medical treatment.
During negotiating talks with the locals in 1993, the plight of the Lipizzaner
horses came to the attention of Canadian peacekeeper Lieutenant-Colonel Jim Calvin,
commanding officer of the Second Battalion of the Princess Patricia’s Canadian Light
Infantry. That’s when he decided to enlist the help of Haugh, one of his friends back
in Winnipeg.
Haugh clearly remembers the call for help. “Jim told me the horses were dying
because of lack of veterinary care, and he basically said, ‘What can you do for me? Is
there any way you can find some help for these horses?’”
5
Horse Health Lines • Autumn 2010
At first, Haugh seemed an unlikely choice for the mission:
since her practice focused on cats, the small animal practitioner
didn’t have much contact with horses. Undeterred, Haugh started
making calls. With the input of local veterinarians and equine
specialists, she compiled a list of items that would be useful for
treating the horses. She then contacted several drug companies
and asked for their help in gathering the badly needed medical
supplies.
Since public knowledge of Canadian assistance could have
caused problems for the peacekeepers, Haugh had to advise
the companies that there could be no publicity regarding their
donations. “The companies were incredible,” she recalls. “They
were willing to give without any expectation that they’d be
acknowledged. None of them turned me down and many gave a
lot of supplies”
Over $5,000 worth of supplies including vaccines, antibiotics,
syringes and bandaging materials began arriving at Haugh’s
clinic and eventually spilled over into her home. Haugh prepared
the products for shipping by labelling them and purchasing
refrigerator packs for perishable items such as vaccines.
With Air Canada providing free shipping, the Canadian
embassy in Vienna accepted and stored the medical supplies
until they could be delivered. In June of 1993, a member of the
Canadian peacekeeping forces transported the goods to the horses
which, by that time, were located behind Serbian lines.
In 2007, after years of advocating for their return, the
residents of Lipik and Croatia tearfully welcomed 66 Lipizzaners
back to their stables. Only eight of those horses were from the
original herd; the rest of the horses were descendants of the mares
and stallions spirited away in 1991.
Now retired, Haugh is still amazed at all the people who
were willing to step forward and help with the effort to save the
animals. “I think it was the fact that this was the stud farm for an
entire breed of horses; it was the knowledge that the very basis of
the breed was threatened here.”
She also thinks back to her visit to the Viennese stables many
years before: “In my mind, this was who I was helping — these
fabulous animals that I had seen both in a show and at the stud
farm. They were spectacular.” H
EQUINE VETS WITH HEART: Do you know
a veterinarian in Western Canada
who has gone beyond the call of
duty to help a horse or horses in
medical distress? Send more details to
sm.ridley@sasktel.net or call
306-225-4479 and your
story may become a
feature in a
future issue of
Horse Health
Lines.
uncommon in hospital- or
community-associated cases of
MRSA in humans, it’s commonly
found in people who work with
horses — an indication that the
strain is zoonotic.
Researchers were concerned
to find that the sixth colonization
was ST398 MRSA, an unexpected
finding because this strain had not
previously been detected in North
American horses. In the past ST398
MRSA has been associated with
food animals (particularly pigs)
in North America, Europe and
Asia. Since the clone has also been
identified in human infections, the
presence of ST398 MRSA indicates
that it too may be zoonotic and
could pose a potentially serious
public health risk.
Follow-up studies, which were
done only in Saskatchewan due to practicality and cost concerns, included
the colonized horses as well as other horses on their farm of origin. The
results confirmed that the bacteria can be naturally eliminated over time.
They also indicated the importance of maintaining proven infection control
practices and raised concerns about transmission – whether it had occurred
through human or animal vectors or both.
The researchers had initially thought that show and racing horses might
be more susceptible due to high stress levels and common management
practices — but that wasn’t the case. They were also unable to link prior
antimicrobial use to MRSA colonization. Since the low prevalence of MRSA
found in the study made it impossible to confirm possible risk factors, further
research into these factors is needed.
The team’s findings draw attention to the danger that communityassociated colonization could lead to animals without any signs of
infection introducing MRSA into veterinary hospitals where it hasn’t been
previously diagnosed. Earlier studies have found that horses with MRSA
colonization may also be more susceptible to clinical MRSA infection during
hospitalization and could place hospital personnel at a higher risk for
acquiring the colonization or the infection.
This study establishes the need for further research into the potential
threat of ST398 MRSA in horses. Most importantly, there needs to be ongoing
research of MRSA colonization and resistance patterns in order to effectively
prevent and control MRSA infections and ensure the protection of animal and
public health. H
EQUI-RESEARCH @ WCVM
MRSA RATES AMONG WESTERN CANADIAN HORSES:
Results of a recent study conducted by a western Canadian research team
confirm that the rate of methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA)
colonization in the region’s horse population is similar to rates reported
elsewhere in the world.
After evaluating nasal swabs that were taken from 458 horses in
Saskatchewan, Alberta and British Columbia during the summers of 2006
and 2007, WCVM researchers found that 1.3 per cent of the study’s horses
tested positive for MRSA colonization.
MRSA describes any strain of Staphylococcus aureus bacteria that’s
resistant to a number of antibiotics. MRSA colonization indicates the presence
of the bacteria but doesn’t necessarily trigger a clinical infection.
MRSA has been a significant health threat since it first appeared in the
1960s — mainly because it’s potentially transmissible between animals and
humans (zoonotic). In the past 10 years, there have been multiple cases
of human infections that could be traced back to contact with horses and
other domestic animals, many of which showed no clinical signs of MRSA
infection.
The study was conducted as part of Dr. Nathalie Tokateloff’s research
work as a Master of Veterinary Science (MVetSc) student at the WCVM under
Dr. Steve Manning’s supervision. The multi-disciplinary team included
researchers from the Universities of Saskatchewan, Guelph, and Calgary plus
the Public Health Agency of Canada and the B.C. Centre of Coastal Health.
The scientists tested nasal swabs taken from a wide cross-section of
horses. The study group included animals admitted to WCVM’s Veterinary
Teaching Hospital or attended by WCVM field service clinicians as well as
horses from ranches, local rodeos and agricultural fairs throughout the three
provinces. With the owner’s co-operation, a history was recorded for each
animal and included breed, age, sex, use or occupation, recent travel and
history of antimicrobial use in the 30 days prior to the swabbing.
The samples were first evaluated for Staphylcoccus aureus, followed
by tests for methicillin-resistance and then genetic analysis. Genetic testing
identified five of the six MRSA colonizations to be Canadian epidemic MRSA5 (CMRSA-5). This clone, the most common one found in other studies
involving horses, is suspected of being a horse-adapted strain. Although
PUBLICATION: Tokateloff N, Manning ST, Weese JS,
Campbell J, Rothenburger J, Stephen C, Bastura V,
Gow SP, Reid-Smith R. 2009. “Prevalence of methicillinresistant Staphylococcus aureus colonization in horses in
Saskatchewan, Alberta, and British Columbia.” Canadian
Veterinary Journal. 50(11): 1177-1180.
Western College of Veterinar y Medicine
6
Gastric Ulcers Prevalent
in Saskatchewan Racehorses
By Lynne Gunville
A
study recently completed by WCVM researchers confirms that
equine gastric ulcer syndrome (EGUS) is just as prevalent in
Western Canada’s racehorse population as it is in other parts of
the world.
By conducting gastroscopic examinations on thoroughbred racing
horses stabled at Saskatoon’s Marquis Downs, the research team determined
that ulcers in the nonglandular portion of the stomach were present in 74.5
per cent of the 94 racehorses involved in the study.
EGUS is a syndrome used to describe a number of clinical symptoms
including ulcers or erosions in the esophagus, stomach and duodenum. In
racehorses, this syndrome is characterized by inflammation and ulceration
in the nonglandular portion of the stomach. Although the physiology is not
completely understood yet, extensive research is being conducted into its
control and diagnosis. Studies have indicated that management practices
such as intensive training and intermittent feeding — both commonly used
with racehorses — can increase the incidence of the condition.
WCVM’s research team, led by large animal internal medicine specialist
Dr. Fernando Marqués, carried out their examinations during the 2008
and 2009 racing seasons at Marquis Downs. Although numerous worldwide studies had already confirmed that thoroughbred racehorses are most
frequently affected by the syndrome, the researchers were curious to see how
Saskatchewan horses would measure up.
7
Horse Health Lines • Autumn 2010
“It’s the fact that we only race three months of the year and the horses
are in pasture for the first part of the year,” explains Marqués. “But for some
reason that doesn’t change anything about the prevalence, and those results
are going to help us to do more about this population of horses.”
Using a portable video endoscope, Marqués and his team explored
the presence or lack of lesions in the stomach and esophagus of the
Saskatchewan racehorses. In order to establish possible risk factors, the
team recorded a history for each animal that included gender, age, body
condition score, racing performance for the last two months, level of
training, history of medical and/or musculoskeletal diseases and treatments
of each horse.
Based on the gastroscopic examination, each animal was evaluated
from zero to four using a grading system established by the Equine Gastric
Ulcer Council in which zero indicates an unaffected animal and grade four
indicates the most severe grade of gastric ulcers. Of the 94 horses examined,
70 were found to have ulcers, with the majority of them being rated as grade
two in severity. None of the risk factors proved to be significant.
Marqués hopes that the study’s results will make local owners and
trainers more mindful that EGUS may be affecting their horses. Since
the clinical signs are vague and the animals don’t show any of the
characteristic signs of pain such as rolling or sweating, people tend to
assume that their animals are doing well even if they do have ulcers. But
Marqués points out that these animals may have severe lesions in their
stomachs.
“It’s an issue of awareness,” he explains. “You can inform people that
their horse has a gastric ulcer, but they think the horse is happy, it’s racing,
it’s performing fine, so they think they’re doing all right. But it makes a
difference when you show people what the ulcer actually looks like.”
A follow-up study now being undertaken at WCVM will use the results
of this research to help determine if there is a relationship between hair
cortisol concentration and the presence and severity of the gastric ulcers
found in the racehorses. The WCVM researchers are guided by previous
studies involving wild animals that have already validated a technique for
measuring hair cortisol levels and have established a link between the hair,
the cortisol in the hair and the chronic stress of the animals.
Meanwhile Marqués and his research team, who have submitted the
results of their gastric ulcer prevalence study for publication, are hopeful
that their efforts will result in increased efforts to prevent and treat the
condition among Saskatchewan’s thoroughbred racehorse population.
“It’s just common sense to me,” says Marqués. “If you can reduce those
situations that cause discomfort in those horses and the horses are not in
pain, then it makes sense that they will perform better.” H
Lynne Gunville is a freelance writer and editor
whose career includes 25 years of teaching English and
communications to adults. She and her husband live at
Candle Lake, Sask.
MEASURING STRESS: Is it All ABOUT the HAIR?
The hair-raising atmosphere of a thoroughbred racing venue is
thrilling for spectators and an accepted way of life for people whose
livelihoods depend on the racing industry.
But what about stress levels of the highly trained animals at the centre
of this multi-million dollar industry?
That’s a key concern for Dr. Fernando Marqués of the Western College
of Veterinary Medicine’s Department of Large Animal Clinical Sciences.
The clinical researcher recently completed a study confirming the high
prevalence of nonglandular gastric ulcers, a potential source of stress,
among Saskatchewan thoroughbred racehorses.
In a natural progression from his gastric ulcer study, Marqués has
teamed up with large animal medicine resident Dr. Alberto Ruiz as well as
Drs. David Janz, Bryan Macbeth and Marc Cattet of the WCVM. Supported
by the College’s Equine Health Research Fund, the new project is designed
to investigate the potential relationship between the presence and severity
of gastric ulcers and the concentration of hair cortisol in thoroughbred
racehorses.
After talking with Janz about his findings that link high hair cortisol
concentrations to long-term stress in polar bears and caribou, Marqués
decided to seize the opportunity to investigate cortisol concentrations in the
animals he and his team were evaluating for gastric ulcers: “As we were
endoscoping the horses, we pulled some hair from them and took serum
samples so that we could analyze the cortisol levels afterwards.”
Ruiz, who took on the cortisol study as his Master of Veterinary Science
(MVetSc) project, is now working on the analysis technique with Janz.
“Since the hair of polar bears and caribou and horses is very different
and they come from very different environments, we’re trying to modify the
technique to develop one that works for horses,” says Ruiz, who adds that
Drs. Steve Manning and Nathalie Tokateloff also helped with the research
project.
Using this customized cortisol enzyme immunoassay, the researchers
plan to compare serum cortisol concentrations, indicators of short-term
stress, to hair cortisol concentrations, indicators of long-term stress. Most
importantly, they hope to establish a relationship between the cortisol levels
and the presence and severity of gastric ulcers.
“If the cortisol increases with stress and if horses with severe gastric
ulceration experience pain, then they may have higher cortisol levels than
horses with no gastric lesions,” explains Ruiz. “Although we won’t be able
to diagnose gastric ulceration just from the results, they may help us to
identify horses that are more likely to have gastric ulcers.”
The researchers are hopeful that their study will eventually lead to an
inexpensive screening test for cortisol concentrations that will be easily
accessible to veterinarians and their clients. Using that information, owners
could then make decisions about adjusting management techniques such
as feeding frequency and training intensity.
Veterinarians could also greatly benefit from knowing which animals
or groups of animals that are most likely affected with gastric lesions. A
gastroscopy, the only reliable test for diagnosing gastric ulcers, is expensive
and invasive. But cortisol measurements could be used to determine which
animals may benefit from direct examination of the stomach. Plus, if a
link is established between the cortisol levels and the severity of the lesions,
veterinarians could use that information to determine a treatment protocol.
Ruiz points out that a screening device leading to early diagnosis of
gastric lesions or ulcers could have a huge economic impact on the entire
equine industry: “Gastric ulceration continues to be of great interest to
horse owners and veterinarians. New studies are being published each year
that are helping us understand the importance of treatment and prevention
of gastric ulcers in horses. If we can discover ways to decrease diagnostic
costs and improve on our ability to assess stress in horses, everyone should
benefit.” H
Western College of Veterinar y Medicine
8
DR. ALBERTO RUIZ began to talk about becoming a veterinarian
when he was four years old. “My first two dogs had died from infectious
diseases,” says Ruiz, “and I never had the chance to talk to anybody who
could help them. So I told my mom that I was going to be a dog doctor
who would know how to save dogs.”
Ruiz recalls that he always liked spending time with animals.
Although he was limited to small animals at the family home in Mexico
City, he has fond memories of summers spent with relatives on their farm
where he worked with cattle, horses and donkeys and remained focused on
veterinary medicine as his career goal.
He realized that goal when he earned his Doctor of Veterinary Medicine
(DVM) degree at the Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México (UNAM)
in 2000 and then specialized further by pursuing an internship in equine
medicine and surgery at the UNAM campus in Mexico City.
After working in an equine hospital and an equine ambulatory
practice, both in Mexico City, Ruiz decided to broaden his education even
more. At University of Guelph’s Ontario Veterinary College, he completed
an internship in large animal medicine and surgery as well as a Master of
Science (MSc) degree in population medicine.
When he decided to apply for a residency, he was pleased to be
accepted at his first choice, WCVM. “I talked to a lot of people and they
recommended the program here,” says Ruiz, “and then when I visited the
university, I really liked the people and I really liked the city.”
Now in the third year of his residency, Ruiz enjoys his work with the
large animal medicine team of Drs. Chris Clark, Lyall Petrie, Katharina
Lohmann and Fernando Marqués. He’s also enjoying the opportunity to
expand his equine experience by working with Marqués, his residency
supervisor, on a project investigating the link between hair cortisol
concentrations and stress in thoroughbred racehorses.
The opportunity to teach has been one of the highlights of Ruiz’s
residency. He’s impressed with the calibre of students at WCVM and enjoys
teaching in the classroom and on clinical rounds. “The students here like
to learn and they work hard at whatever they have to do,” explains Ruiz.
Although unsure about where he’ll be once he completes his residency
in 2011, Ruiz is clear about what he wants to do: “My first goal is
academia. I’ve been passionate about teaching since my high school days
teaching sports to kids and adults. And since the first day I started here, I’ve
loved having the opportunity to teach. I love working with the students.” H
9
Horse Health Lines • Autumn 2010
Tying-up syndrome, or rhabdomyolysis,
is a myopathy (disorder affecting the
body’s muscle system) that causes
muscle-cell destruction and decreases
an affected horse’s performance.
Common systems include painful muscle
cramping and hardening as well as
severe increases in muscle enzymes that
can be detected through laboratory
testing.
Exertional rhabdomyolyses are
disorders that typically occur in
horses performing exercise beyond
their conditioning status — or horses
performing strenuous exercise after a
period of rest and inactivity. Exertional
rhabdomyolysis may be sporadic or can
chronically recur in some affected horses.
Sporadic exertional rhabdomylosis occurs in horses
performing exercise beyond their conditioning status and in horses
performing strenuous exercise after a period of rest and inactivity.
• Clinical signs: The signs, which can appear very quickly,
include a reluctance to move and/or a stiff gait, firm and painful muscles,
weakness and fatigue, and signs of anxiety such as sweating, rapid
heartbeat and rapid breathing. Some affected horses may also pass dark
urine, and in severe cases, affected horses may go down.
• Risk factors: Inadequate conditioning, high carbohydrate
intake, deficiency in vitamin E and/or selenium, hypothyroidism, and
bacterial or viral infections are some of the risk factors that veterinary
researchers have considered. However, the evidence supporting these factors
is still unclear. Since female horses seem to be predisposed, hormones may
be a factor. Differential diagnoses of lameness, colic, pneumonia, back
pain or neurological diseases can be ruled out by a complete physical
examination and with lab tests of blood and urine.
• Treatment: Treatment includes rest, intravenous and/or oral
fluid therapy, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDS) for pain
control and, if necessary, sedatives to control anxiety. If deficiencies in
vitamin E and selenium are identified, supplements should be provided.
In the disease’s acute stages, horses shouldn’t be forced to move, and their
return to exercise should be based on improved lab results as well as their
willingness to move.
Recumbent horses should have soft bedding to prevent injury, and
their caregivers should encourage them to stand and turn every few hours
to avoid bedsores. If a horse can’t stand, the animal should be turned every
few hours. In some cases, it may be necessary to use a sling to help an
affected horse stay upright. However, horses that are in pain should not be
forced to stand for extended periods of time.
• Prognosis: The prognosis for recovery is generally favourable
as long as the animal is treated early enough and doesn’t develop
complications such as kidney failure. The recovery time depends on
the severity of the disease; an adequate rest period and gradual return
to exercise are required. Proper conditioning and regular exercise
— including pasture turn-out — are also recommended.
By Katharina Lohmann, MedVet, PhD, DACVIM
Associate Professor, Department of Large Animal
Clinical Sciences, WCVM
TYING-UP
Chronic recurrent rhabdomyolysis: This disease group
causes recurring episodes of rhabdomyolysis. The severity and the intervals
between episodes can vary greatly, and genetics may be an underlying
factor.
To maintain their athletic capability, affected horses require careful
lifelong management as well as changes in their diet and exercise regimen.
Horses that are diagnosed with this condition may never be able to perform
as racehorses or participate in other high-level performance events. On the
other hand, they may do well in other less challenging occupations. Polysaccharide storage myopathy (PSSM) is a
common cause of chronic recurrent rhabdomyolysis in quarter horses,
paints and appaloosas as well as in warmblood breeds and draft horses.
Researchers have now differentiated two types of PSSM. A genetic defect has
been identified in type I PSSM (“classic” PSSM) and this defect accounts
for up to 90 per cent of cases in some horse breeds. The genetic test is
performed on blood or hair samples and is available through the University
of Minnesota Neuromuscular Diseases Laboratory. Muscle biopsy remains
the test of choice in horses affected by PSSM that do not carry the mutation.
• Clinical signs: Clinical indications of PSSM include repeated
episodes of “tying-up” with less than strenuous exercise, muscle stiffness
during and after work, exercise intolerance, and, possibly, changes in
behaviour.
• Diagnosis: The first step in diagnosing PSSM is ruling out
other causes such as lameness through careful examination and laboratory
tests. The next step is often exercise testing which may be followed up with
further diagnostics like muscle biopsy and genetic testing.
• Treatment: Veterinarians recommend mild exercise as soon as
possible for PSSM-affected horses. Other recommendations include making
dietary changes, maintaining an ideal body weight and following a specific
exercise regimen.
Dietary changes involve reducing
carbohydrates and increasing fat as an energy
source. While special commercial diets are
available, an alternative is to gradually add
rice bran or vegetable oils to the horse’s
feed. High-performing horses may require
additional calories in their diet.
Regular exercise is important; pasture
turnout is ideal and stall rest should be limited
as much as possible. Unless there’s adequate
preparation and conditioning, horse owners
must avoid sudden changes to an affected
horse’s exercise regimen — such as a long
trail ride. As well, affected horses shouldn’t
take long trips in a trailer or be involved in
other stressful events.
Owners who follow veterinarians’
recommendations for diet and exercise are
more likely to see a reduction in the frequency
and severity of PSSM episodes in horses
diagnosed with this condition. Recurrent exertional
rhabdomyolysis (RER) is a condition that presents similar
symptoms to PSSM and is mainly diagnosed in thoroughbred and
standardbred racehorses.
• Risk factors: Episodes of RER may be related to the stress of
training and racing. Young horses — particularly fillies and horses with
nervous dispositions — may be at a higher risk. Researchers have also
identified high-grain rations and certain training strategies as possible risk
factors for RER.
• Diagnosis: Exercise testing and a muscle biopsy are the most
useful tools for diagnosing RER.
• Treatment: Managing RER is similar to PSSM in terms of diet
and exercise. As well, it’s essential to reduce stress in affected horses’ lives.
For example, owners should standardize the horses’ daily routines. The
animals should be exercised and fed before their barnmates, and low doses
of anti-anxiety drugs may be given prior to exercise. Several drugs such as
dantrolene (a muscle relaxant) and phenytoin (an anti-convulsant drug)
may be helpful in preventing episodes of rhabdomyolysis in affected horses,
but these medications should only be used under veterinary direction. Summary
Rhabdomyolysis remains an important cause of morbidity and
mortality in horses. Recent advances in identifying underlying myopathies,
some of which are now known to be genetically determined, have
helped veterinary researchers gain a better understanding of this group
of disorders and to develop more specific treatment and management
recommendations.
To optimize management and to make important breeding decisions,
it’s important for horse owners and their veterinarians to pursue thorough
diagnostic testing of animals with rhabdomyolysis — especially if it’s a
recurring problem. H
Lohmann, Katharina L. “Equine Myopathies: An
Update (Part 1)” Large Animal Veterinary Rounds 8(7),
1-6. Original article summarized by Lynne Gunville.
Western College of Veterinar y Medicine
10
Backstretch
Field Calls
Throughout the final year of WCVM’s Doctor
of Veterinary Medicine (DVM) program,
fourth-year veterinary students complete
two- and four-week clinical rotations
that provide them with practical,
hands-on experience in various veterinary disciplines. Several of the year’s
rotations focus on horse health —
including one that exposes students
to general equine practice with an
emphasis on racetrack work. In early
September, two senior WCVM students
— Vicki Patrie (top photo) and Lynn
Smart (above photo, at left) — accompanied WCVM field service clinical associate Dr. Rochelle Lewis (top left photo,
at right) to the backstretch at Saskatoon’s
Marquis Downs where they had the chance
to examine and treat several equine patients with
lameness issues. Photos: Michael Raine.
11
Horse Health Lines • Autumn 2010
students and local horse enthusiasts
then lined up to enjoy barbecued
hamburgers, hot dogs and sausages
along with salads and fresh-baked
cookies.
While most of the funds collected
for the L. David Dubé and Heather
Ryan Veterinary Research Fund at
the WCVM stemmed from players’
donations, the barbecue fundraiser
also helped to increase the day’s
total to $2,962. The Heather Ryan
and L. David Dubé Foundation will
also pony up an additional $2,962
through its five-year matching
gift incentive program at the
WCVM. For Ryan, what made the day
even more gratifying is that the event
inspired the Willow Ridge Riding Club to make its November horse show a
fundraiser for equine research (see page 2 for details). “This is exactly the
kind of results that we’re hoping to see,” points out Ryan. “We would love to
see all disciplines and clubs dedicate one event each year to raising money
for equine research. The matching can make such a huge difference, and we
really hope it will be an additional catalyst for more of these fundraisers.”
Based on the success of the first “Polo for the Ponies,” Ryan hopes to
plan a bigger and better event for next season. “There was very positive
feedback from other clubs
and players in Western
Canada, so we’re hoping to
make next summer’s event a
tournament.” H
POLO for the PONIES
Whether it was on or off the field, horses held the spotlight during the
inaugural “Polo for the Ponies” fundraising event on August 22 that helped
to raise nearly $6,000 in support of equine health research.
The Sunday event, which was organized by Heather Ryan and L. David
Dubé, was held at the Sifton Polo Field on the grounds of Willow Ridge
Stables near Saskatoon, Sask. One team consisted of three Winnipeg players
— Bruce King, Canelo Silvestre and Michelle Streeter — who wore blue
and yellow jerseys along with Dave Bell of Edmonton, Alta. Saskatoon’s Drs.
Vikram Misra and Tom Maltman, Heather Ryan, Ricardo Garcia and Tony
Basaldua played together as the North Polo team in red and white jerseys.
Despite some spitting rain, the teams played a four-chukker match (a
“chukker” is a 7.5-minute playing period in polo) while David Dubé gave
play-by-play commentary and explained the game’s rules to more than 50
spectators who came out to watch the action. Just as the weather brightened
and the day changed to a sunny afternoon, Team Winnipeg was declared the
match’s winner.
After the excitement on the field, professor Dr. Hugh Townsend gave
a short talk about the equine research program at the Western College of
Veterinary Medicine (WCVM). Players, WCVM faculty members, veterinary
Above (left to right):
Michelle Streeter,
Heather Ryan, Bruce
King, Ricardo Garcia
and Tom Maltman.
Photo: Judy Wood.
A Tribute to Bob Barr
On a clear summer evening that was simply perfect for horseracing, a
three-year-old dark bay filly named Woke Up Lovin led a field of eight to win
the inaugural Bob Barr Memorial Handicap at Saskatoon’s Marquis Downs
on July 30.
Bob, who died on December 6, 2009, at the age of 72, was a highly
successful thoroughbred trainer who raced at western Canadian tracks
for nearly three decades. To honour his memory, the WCVM Veterinary
Teaching Hospital sponsored the horserace at the track where Bob and his
family have been part of the racing industry for many years. As a member
of Saskatchewan’s racing industry, Bob was also a longtime supporter of the
WCVM’s Equine Health Research Fund.
Racing was a natural calling for Bob whose father Ken and grandfather
Robert were pioneers of the sport in Saskatchewan. Bob had a lifelong passion
for thoroughbreds and was well known for the care and attention he gave
Bob Barr
his horses. Beneath his quiet,
unassuming personality was
a great depth of knowledge and a keen insight into the art and science of
training thoroughbreds. He was especially skilled at training two-year-old
horses that thrived under his patient care.
Bob celebrated more than 200 wins during his career including triumphs
at the Saskatchewan Derby, Prairie Lily Stakes and the Graceful Klinchit
Handicap. Some of his proudest moments came as he watched horses like
Graceful Klinchit, Elegant Black, Bay is OK, Quiz the Wizard, Picture the
Answer and Ice Jammer cross the wire first.
Bob’s love for the sport earned the respect and friendship of his fellow
trainers and horsemen. He will always be missed by Gail, his wife of 47 years,
their three children — Todd, Lori and Glenn — and seven grandchildren. H
Western College of Veterinar y Medicine
12
Our Contributors
A list of contributors to the Equine Health Research Fund during the period between
September 1, 2009 and August 31, 2010. Visit www.ehrf.usask.ca for donor information.
$25,000 and up
$100 to $499
Heather Ryan & L. David Dube Foundation Inc., Saskatoon, SK
AltaGas Utilities Inc., Leduc, AB • Bailey, Mamie, Prince Albert, SK •
Bennett, Hazel, Calgary, AB • BorderVET Animal Health Services, Carnduff,
SK • Bow Vet Services Inc., Bassano, AB • Card, Claire, Saskatoon, SK •
Colchester & District Agricultural Society, Sherwood Park, AB • Dowler,
Leslie, Edmonton, AB • Elders Equine Clinic, Cartier, MB • Ellis, Betty,
Okotoks, AB • Fisher, Tracy, Regina, SK • Foxleigh Riding Club, Regina,
SK • Frank’s Saddlery & Supply Ltd., Lloydminster, SK • Frolic, Natasha,
Comox, BC • Gregory, Marilyn, Langley, BC • Hiebert, Darlene, Dawson
Creek, BC • Laxton, Kathryn, Priddis, AB • Lukey, E Ann, Sherwood Park,
AB • MacEwen, Almon, Saskatoon, SK • Malard-Russ, Anne-Marie, Bellis,
AB • Manitoba Welsh Pony Association, Kenton, MB • McCargar, Murray,
Calgary, AB • McKague, Ross & Brenda, Brandon, MB • Moose Jaw
Exhibition Company Ltd., Moose Jaw, SK • Nelson, Elizabeth, Edmonton,
AB • Newbert, Judy, Crossfield, AB • Okotoks Animal Clinic, Okotoks,
AB • Palese, Kathleen, Calgary, AB • Palouse Holdings Ltd., Calgary, AB
• Panorama Veterinary Services Ltd., Winfield, BC • Pioneer Veterinary
Services Inc., Sundre, AB • Poelking, Frank, Humboldt, SK • Pollock,
James, Moosomin, SK • Saskatchewan Quarter Horse Breeders, Battleford,
SK • Saskatchewan Regional Pony Club, Saskatoon, SK • Souris Valley
$10,000 to $24,999
Equine Foundation of Canada, Saskatoon, SK • Horse Racing Alberta,
Edmonton, AB • Saskatchewan Liquor & Gaming Authority, Regina, SK
$1,000 to $9,999
Moore & Co. Veterinary Services Ltd., Balzac, AB • North American Equine
Ranching Information Council, Inc., Louisville, KY • Paton & Martin
Veterinary Services Ltd., Aldergrove, BC • Saskatchewan Horse Federation
Inc., Regina, SK
$500 to $999
Brickley, Bob & Lois, Kennedy, SK • Delaney Veterinary Services Ltd.,
Sherwood Park, AB • French, Daniel, Okotoks, AB • Killeen, James,
Sherwood Park, AB • Perron, Michael, Surrey, BC • Saskatchewan Pleasure
Driving Association, Saskatoon, SK • Smith, Mae, Regina, SK • Southern,
Margaret, Calgary, AB • Urtasun, Frances, Edmonton, AB
13
Horse Health Lines • Autumn 2010
Trekkers, Estevan, SK • Taylor, Samuel & Nancey, Swift Current, SK
• Tokuda, Yuka, Saskatoon, SK • Townsend, Robert, Victoria, BC •
Twidale, John, Surrey, BC • USHU Farrier Supplies, Saskatoon, SK • Van
Dyck, Thomas, Courtenay, BC • Virden Animal Hospital Ltd., Virden, MB
• Wilson, George, Saskatoon, SK • Wilson, Wayne, Cremona, AB • Wing,
Josephine, Aldergrove, BC • Winkelman-Sim, Dianne, Rosetown, SK •
Zurawski, Cheryl, Regina, SK
Up to $99
Alfonso, Hayley, St. Andrews, MB • Allen, Andrew, Saskatoon, SK • Allen,
Carmen, Saskatoon, SK • Asu, Victoria, Winnipeg, MB • Atchison,
Lynsay, Bruderheim, AB • Bayens-Simmonds, Jacqueline, Edmonton,
AB • Benjamin, Linda, D’Arcy Station, SK • Blazieko, Chris, Yorkton,
SK • Burlingame, Donna, Saskatoon, SK • Burns, Beverley, Edmonton,
AB • Callfas, Debbie, Lloydminster, SK • Cole, Harvey, Olds, AB • Cote,
Brenda, Carseland, AB • Coward, Shari, Calgary, AB • Cribb, Peter &
Ada, Saskatoon, SK • Deep Creek Veterinary Services, Enderby, BC •
Dobson, Mary, Kenosee Lake, SK • Doyle, Aimie, Sherwood Park, AB •
A Year in Review
Edey, Donald, Longview, AB • Elaschuk, Norman, Turin, AB • Forsberg, Gay,
Macrorie, SK • Fudge, Darcy, Minneapolis, MN • Kaban, Monica, Innisfail,
AB • Kenlii Arabians, Sherwood Park, AB • Knight, Donald, Strathmore, AB
• Koch, Debbie, Sherwood Park, AB • Komm, Kenneth, Sherwood Park, AB
• Koosey, Patricia, Calgary, AB • Ladyman, Elizabeth, Merritt, BC • Lauder,
Jean, Quilchena, BC • Lenz, S., Calgary, AB • Lepine, Patricia, Calgary, AB
• Lloydminster Animal Hospital, Lloydminster, AB • Lockhart, J., Penticton,
BC • McClellan, Audrey, Victoria, BC • McKenzie, Colleen, Sherwood Park,
AB • Metzger-Savoie, Pamela, Strathmore, AB • Nelson & District Riding
Club, Nelson, BC • Quesnel & District Riding Club, Quesnel, BC • Robinson,
Brian, Lloydminster, AB • Rowe, Kasey, Fort Saskatchewan, AB • Roy,
Jennifer, Battleford, SK • Schneidmiller, Helen, Calgary, AB • Seifried, Anke,
Edmonton, AB • Smith, Jeff & Hannelore , Saskatoon, SK • Stables, Robert,
Brooks, AB • Steiger, Debra, Didsbury, AB • Stewart, Cindy, Okotoks, AB •
Swidzinski, Marlene, Vancouver, BC • Walker, Diane, Okotoks, AB • Wallace,
Betty, Dauphin, MB • West Wind Veterinary Hospital Ltd., Sherwood Park, AB
• Wysocki, Beverly, Priddis, AB
WCVM Equine Health Research Fund Statement of Revenue and Expenditures
For the Year Ending December 31, 2009
EXPENDABLE FUND
2009
Revenue
Donations
Private
$43,552.81
Racing Commissions
30,000.00
Horsemen’s Association
18,841.71
NAERIC
--
Miscellaneous
--
Total Revenue
92,394.52 Expenditures
Fellowship program
71,098.65
Grants
69,000.00
Recovery from previous grants
(22,533.61)
Horse Health Lines
31,651.74
Graduate student awards ($3,000 each)
12,000.00
Fundraising
11,315.75
Administration — Advisory Board
5,182.35
Summer student
--
Total Expenditures
177,714.88
Deficiency of revenue over expenses
(85,320.36)
Transfer from restricted funds
85,320.36
Unrestricted funds, beginning of year
--
2008
$22,697.39
10,000.00
14,673.71
6,900.00
1,178.10
55,449.20
103,601.71
85,375.00
-35,592.70
21,000.00
27,412.75
4,430.25
8,900.00
286,312.41
(230,863.21)
230,863.21
--
Unrestricted Funds, End of Year
$
--- $
--
****************************************************************
RESTRICTED
FUND
2009
2008
Investment income
$116,508.56 $(272,033.73)
Investment income expense
(5,716.75)
-Transfer to unrestricted fund
(85,320.36)
(230,863.21)
Fund balance, beginning of year
1,292,106.53 1,795,003.47
Fund balance, end of year
$1,317,577.98
$1,292,106.53
One little foal,
ONE BIG GIFT
A sincere thank you to Bob and Lois Brickley, Crescent Point Energy
Corp., and the Heather Ryan and L. David Dubé Foundation for their
support of the WCVM’s equine health programs.
For Bob and Lois Brickley of Moose Mountain Ranch,
protecting the health and welfare of all horses is
more than a business philosophy. It’s a way of life for
the couple who have raised hundreds of registered
quarter horses on their ranch near Kennedy, Sask.
Every year since 2008, the Brickleys have donated
the sale proceeds of a foal to the Western College
of Veterinary Medicine’s Equine Health Research
Fund. The Brickleys’ contributions have been
matched dollar for dollar by the Heather Ryan
and L. David Dubé Foundation through its five-year
matching gift program. The result: nearly $6,000 has
been earmarked for vital equine health research
projects and training programs at the WCVM.
On September 11, the Brickleys’ efforts inspired
Crescent Point Energy Corp. of Calgary, Alta., to
purchase the selected 2010 gift foal for $1,200 and
to donate the entire amount to the College’s equine
fund. The sturdy palomino colt went on to be sold for
a second time to Don Peacock of Maple Creek, Sask.
The foal’s combined sales raised $1,750 for the EHRF.
Want to join the match? Contact the WCVM and
learn how you can double your money to support
horse health.
Lisa Green, Development Officer
Western College of Veterinary Medicine
306-966-7450 • lisa.green@usask.ca
www.ehrf.usask.ca
It just goes to show that sometimes the very best gifts
do come in small packages.
Visit Horse Health Lines online at www.ehrf.usask.ca
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