SIGN IN YOUR ACCOUNT TO HAVE ACCESS TO DIFFERENT FEATURES

FORGOT YOUR PASSWORD?

FORGOT YOUR DETAILS?

AAH, WAIT, I REMEMBER NOW!

Sidelines Magazine

  • LOGIN
  • Home
  • Current Issue
  • Subscriptions
    • Flipbook
    • Subscribe Options
    • Order Individual & Back Issues
  • Marketplace
    • Business Ads
    • Directories
      • Barns, Farms, Trainers & Clubs
      • Equestrian Services
      • Real Estate
      • Stallions
      • Tack & Feed Stores
    • Classifieds
  • Advertise
  • Blogs
    • Show World
    • What’s Happenin’
  • Partners
    • Media Partners
    • Horse Trailers for Sale
  • Contacts
    • Contacts
    • Employment
0
Thursday, October 18 2018 / Published in General

Vet Talk with Dr. Richard Wheeler

Richard Wheeler, DVM, was born in the U.K. and graduated from the Royal Veterinary College, London, in 2002. Dr. Wheeler then completed a two-year internship at Greenwood, Ellis and Partners (now Newmarket Equine Hospital) in Newmarket. In 2005, he moved to Wellington, Florida, to join Palm Beach Equine Clinic and he became a partner in 2009. Dr. Wheeler’s primary concentration is equine sports medicine. He is an FEI Veterinary Delegate for show jumping and dressage and has authored several published articles on the topic of equine sports medicine. Dr. Wheeler has served on the board of the USHJA Horse and Rider Advocates Committee. In 2016, Dr. Wheeler became a founding director of the Sport Horse Research Foundation. Dr. Wheeler and his wife, Jessica, have two children. Do you have a question you want Dr. Wheeler to answer? Send questions to editor@sidelinesnews.com.

What research has the Sport Horse Research Foundation been associated with during 2018? What plans does it have for the future?

The Sport Horse Research Foundation has awarded grants for several studies during 2018.

Jennifer Symons, Ph.D., compared distal limb nuclear scintigraphy (bone scan) images of sport horses versus racehorses. This project is important as it may emphasize the difference between these two groups of equine athletes. Sport horses engaged in disciplines such as show jumping and dressage are required to perform at different gaits, collect and extend their stride lengths and negotiate tight turns in both directions. Conversely, American racehorses gallop with larger stride lengths in straight lines and left turns. This leads us to believe there will be significant differences with regard to both biomechanical stresses upon their skeleton and injuries sustained during training and competition.

A standing CT myelogram being performed at Palm Beach Equine Clinic.
Photo courtesy of PBEC

Specifically, the purpose of the study is to examine differences in sites and incidence of increased uptake and injury between these two groups. Nuclear scintigraphy was selected as the modality for this study due to its high sensitivity (i.e. likely to identify pathology) and ability to image large areas of the skeleton. Our hopes for this study are to examine similarities and differences between the two populations of equine athletes both in location and severity of injury. This will enable us to predict what research can be extrapolated from previous studies in either group and what areas of research are required in the future specifically for the benefit of the sport horse. This project has been submitted for publication and results will be available on the SHRF website in the near future. As practitioners having worked with both Thoroughbred racehorses and Warmblood sport horses, our hypothesis, or prediction, is that we will find these groups of horses will have different patterns of uptake and discretely different areas of bony remodeling. This is important as it will justify and direct further research specifically for the sport horse. Of course, we have to wait for the results to be published, but I’m excited to see where this takes us next.

Pablo Espinosa-Mur, DVM, DACVS, DECVS, and a group of California-based researchers examined radiographic and ultrasonographic findings of the caudal cervical (lower neck) region in warmblood show jumping horses. The equine veterinary profession is becoming increasingly aware of the lower neck region as a potential source of poor performance in sport horses. This can result in pain, lameness and in more advanced cases, ataxia. Early in my veterinary career, the diagnosis of lower neck arthritis was relatively uncommon and mostly detected in severe cases. More recently, mainly due to advances in diagnostic imaging equipment, it’s much more common. More accurate diagnosis and treatment of these more subtle cases has greatly improved the welfare and performance of many competition horses.

The purpose of this study is to describe the prevalence of cervical osteoarthritis in a normal population of medium- to upper-level show jumpers. In addition, the correlation between radiographic changes and joint effusion and/or capsulitis observed with ultrasound will be described. The horses selected in this study were clinically sound and performing well.

This study is very important and exciting on many levels. It will help us learn more regarding the prevalence and nature of arthritis of the lower neck, which will allow us to more accurately diagnose and treat clinical cases. I believe the most exciting information will be regarding the prevalence of findings in these horses without clinical signs and the implications at prepurchase examination where neck radiographs are becoming more common.

Michael Myhre, DVM, and a group from Palm Beach Equine Clinic will describe a technique for computed tomographic (CT) myelography in the standing horse.

A myelogram is a type of radiographic examination where a contrast dye is injected into the spinal canal to allow the examination of the spinal cord and spinal canal surrounding the spinal cord. In most cases, it is used to visualize spinal cord compression. The current standard technique for performing an equine myelogram involves general anesthesia and plain radiographs. Risks include those typically associated with equine anesthesia, compounded by the fact that the horse may be ataxic (experiencing loss of body control), as well as seizures. Plain radiographic images are significantly inferior to the far more detailed and three-dimensional images provided with CT. In human medicine, the use of CT has long replaced plain radiography for myelograms.

This study will describe a technique of performing a standing spinal tap, injection of contrast media and use of a standing CT scanner to obtain diagnostic images of the spinal column.

This study offers so many benefits for horses suffering from suspected spinal cord compression in the neck region: the ability to produce higher-quality images allowed by CT versus plain radiology, the reduction of risks inherent with general anesthesia and the ability to image the horse in its normal orientation. This technique will offer a better understanding and I believe will lead us to better medical and surgical management of these challenging cases.

SHRF has several projects in the planning stages, and we plan to continue work investigating the lower neck, back and distal limbs. We hope to add to several large groups who are evaluating and comparing training and competition surfaces throughout the world.

The Sport Horse Research Foundation is grateful to all of our donors and researchers for their continued support. To learn more, visit www.thesporthorseresearchfoundation.org.

My older horse is going blind. How can I help him continue to lead a happy, safe life at my barn? He knows the routine, but I can tell that losing his senses is affecting him.

Just as with an aging relative or pet, we have to make adjustments as our equine partners get older. One significant difference is their size and the potential safety issue this poses to both them and us. A horse with impaired vision may become anxious, and you need to be very careful and have an open discussion with your veterinarian, as well as anyone else who may be taking care of the animal. It may be useful to attach a sign on the horse’s stall to remind people to be careful with the horse.

Fortunately, while there are many reasons for horses to lose sight, most are gradual processes, which allow for gradual adaptation. It has surprised me how well many horses tolerate a significant reduction in vision.

You mention the word “routine” in your question and that’s very important. It will be very important to keep your horse’s surroundings familiar while making sure they’re as safe as possible. I would recommend removing anything that might cause injury and making sure his stall and fencing is solid, but smooth. Keeping the environment consistent is going to be important, and I believe all horses do well with a consistent daily routine. Make sure the horse has easy and consistent access to clean water and food, and check that he’s drinking the required amount.

As with other species, as a horse’s vision becomes impaired, they’ll rely more on other senses. Be careful not to startle the horse with loud noises and make sure you approach slowly, while making sure they can hear you coming. I would advise against clipping around the muzzle and eyes as these hairs will become more useful in allowing the horse to feel the environment.

Some horses will benefit from having another horse in close proximity, while others will be more comfortable without. This is very case-specific, and requires thought given your barn setup and the temperaments of the horse losing its vision as well as its barn mates.

Double D Trailers Info

Share this page:

  • Click to share on Twitter (Opens in new window)
  • Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window)
  • Click to share on Pinterest (Opens in new window)
  • Click to print (Opens in new window)
Tagged under: Dr. Richard Wheeler, palm beach equine clinic, q&a, vet

What you can read next

Unbridled with Kevin Babington
Kennzo and Molly Ashe Win $20,000 Holiday & Horses USHJA International Hunter Derby Presented by Dietrich Insurance
Best-Selling Author Tami Hoag’s Latest Thriller: Her Dressage Horse in the Ribbons in California

Download Sidelines Digital now from your favorite app store!

Sidelines Magazine - Apple store   Sidelines Magazine - Google Play store   Sidelines Magazine - Amazon store
Update iOS app. Re-download Google Play and Amazon app.

Follow on Instagram!

sidelines_magazine

Sidelines Magazine
Anthony Robinson is one of the modern-day master p Anthony Robinson is one of the modern-day master painters, and his love of animals has drawn him into a life where he’s surrounded by them in all shapes and forms. Powerful and freeing brush strokes set his work apart in the ever-expanding world of equine art, and his masterful knowledge of both art and horses creates the perfect landscape for him to display his creative skill. Read more about @a4valentino and view his exquisite artwork at the link in our bio! #equineart #painting #art #artwork #artistsoninstagram #equestrianart #equestrian #horse #horselover #sidelinesmagazine
Jennifer Williams, our February cover rider, is gr Jennifer Williams, our February cover rider, is grateful for MIllione, her longtime partner with whom she won the 2020 Grand Prix National Championship. "Millione has been such an impactful horse for my life. He's all heart, and I joke that he's my little Viking warrior because he's solid and strong and always ready to give 110%. He loves to work and has such an incredible work ethic. He's so happy and quirky, it warms my heart," Jennifer said. From the looks of it, Jennifer (@summervalepremierdressage) warms Millione's heart too as evidenced in this photo gem by Sidelines photographer @msfullerphotography of the two sharing a sweet moment. Catch more exclusive content like never before seen photos and quotes when you sign up for the Sidelines Scoop! DM us your email to sign up! #equinephotography #pony #snuggles #cuddles #photography #dressage #grandprix #doublebridle #love #sidelinesmagazine
Straight from the Sidelines Stallion Guide 🐴 F Straight from the Sidelines Stallion Guide 🐴 Find out more 👉 @eurequinellc and view the 2021 Stallion Guide in the January issue of Sidelines Magazine 🤩 LINK IN BIO 🤩 #stallion #stud #showhorse #kwpn #warmblood #showjumper #dressage #eventing #hunterjumper #sporthorse #breed #foalingseason #equestrian #equinephotography
"I remember everything about that day. I remember "I remember everything about that day. I remember the name of the horse his color, and that it was a beautiful summer day in the mountains. I was thinking, This is it. This is the moment I've been waiting for. It was all I wanted to do for the rest of my life." A trail ride in Colorado on a roan gelding named Schnapps was U.S. eventer Liz Halliday-Sharp's first foray into the world of horses. After her momentous first ride, Liz began taking lessons, earning money and saving her allowance to buy tack and riding clothes. When the native Californian joined Pony Club and had a chance to jump cross country, she decided eventing was meant for her. "I got that 'this is it' feeling again," Liz said. Liz's father, a vintage auto racer who instructed for the Sports Car Club of America, taught Liz how to race cars when she got her driver's license. The dad and daughter shared a 1967 Datsun 510 which was the first car Liz raced on her journey to becoming the most successful female driver in the American Le Mans Series. Read about @lizhallidaysharp at the link in our bio! #horseshow #equestrian #hunterjumper #eventing #equinephotography #sidelinesmagazine
Load More... Follow on Instagram

From Our Classifieds Ads

  • A Wynning Advantage
    Take the Leap! Take your equestrian event or business to the next level. Lifestyle Marketing • Public Relations • Sponsorship Sales • Event Activation Sponsorship • Marketing • Promotion Event Management • Ananlytics Press/Email Campaigns • Editorial Photography • Social Media • Website Design Ad Copy • Onsite and Remote Activation Lisa Davis Engel • awynningadvantage@yahoo.com • 908-310-6248

    [Read more]

  • AIKEN’S FINEST - DAVID STINSON
    Keller Williams Realty Your Best Friend In Real Estate (803) 640-0123 FineHomesOfAiken.com

    [Read more]

Sidelines Articles by Email

Subscribe to Sidelines Magazine Articles by Email

RSS Sidelines Blogs: What’s Happenin’

  • Saying Yes to the Vest – How My Quest for Safety Launched A Company
  • Rutledge Farm Sessions: Phillip Dutton 2019
  • Rutledge Farm Sessions: Will Simpson 2019

RSS Sidelines Blogs: Show World

  • Hunter World Get Ready – Split Rock Jumping Tour to Add Hunters in 2021
  • News from the Alumni Tournament of Champions
  • EQUITANA USA Unveils Month-Long Virtual Program to Celebrate the Horse Online eQuestrian Celebration Offers Sneak Peek for 2021 Exhibition

Category

Recent Posts

  • Selling Your Horse Through a Broker

    By Armand Leone and Jessica E. Choper  Horse br...
  • Anthony Robinson: A Modern Master of Equine Art 

    By Shya Beth  Anthony Robinson is one of the mo...
  • Liz Halliday-Sharp: Shifting Gears

    By Josh Walker Portraits by Alex Banks Liz Hall...
  • February 2021 – Table of Contents

    Subscribe for just $9.95 or Order Individual Is...
  • A Family Business Raising Welsh Ponies

    Cheryl Maye Fairfield, Virginia Owner/Trainer, ...

Copyright © 1987 - 2021 Sidelines Magazine
Privacy Policy · Returns & Refunds Policy · Hosting by Lucian Web Service
· Login

TOP
Get the Sidelines Scoop — your weekly look behind the scenes.Sign me up!