Horse Health Vol. 3, Spring 2010 Santé De Cheval

The News Magazine of the LSU Equine Health Studies Program

In this Issue: An Emerging Pathogen in Weanling Foals Breeding for Early Foals Foal Diarrhea and Pneumonia FROM THE DIRECTOR’S DESK Greetings from the Equine Health Studies Program (EHSP) • Enhancing and at Louisiana State University School of Veterinary Medicine. upgrading the equine As many of you know, the EHSP was established in 2003 hospital facilities and and had the broad-based support of the Louisiana Racing maintain accreditation Commission, Louisiana Thoroughbred Breeders Association, • Attracting and equine veterinarians and horse owners. The program was keeping high quality initiated to specialized faculty and • Support the $2.4 Billion horse industry in Louisiana staff • Improve the quality of the horse industry and horse racing • Providing timely and in the state state-of-the-art services • Increase the number of critically ill and injured horses for Louisiana’s referring referred to the School veterinarians and horse owners • Provide the highest quality in veterinary medical support services We feel well supported • Support cutting-edge equine research to benefit by our alumni, friends, Louisiana horses and horse owners, and this was evident at this year’s American Association of Equine • Improve diagnostic capabilities and facilities within the Practitioners’ Convention in Las Vegas, where we had over equine hospital 60 alumni and friends at the LSU reception. A hearty thanks to all of you who attended and donated money to defray the Since its inception, the EHSP has provided value-added cost of the reception. A good time was had by all! Again, we support for Louisiana’s horse industry and 100% of the thank you for your continued support of our program and the allocated funds (Figure 1) have been spent to support the best of luck in 2010. vital Louisiana horse industry, which generates $120 million annually in slot machine revenues from the four racetracks. Allocated funds have provided value-added programs and 7% services to over 18,000 ill and injured horses and facilities.

Since our last newsletter, we put in new flooring throughout 14% 27% the large animal hospital and installed a new Echelon High Field 1.5 Tesla MRI Unit for advanced diagnostics. The program provides in-house veterinary specialists and a clinical 7% equine ambulatory specialist (Dr. Ann Chapman) to improve 45% the health of the horses in Louisiana and surrounding states. Our continuing mission is to further support Louisiana’s $2.4 billion horse industry and horse racing by: • Maintaining a competitive national and international recognized research program Figure 1: 100% of the allocated funds are used to support the EHSP, which in turn supports Louisiana’s horse industry. • Maintaining and adding new and innovative diagnostic and therapeutic technologies (Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy, Frank M. Andrews, DVM, MS, DACVIM Laser, Laparoscopy, Acupuncture, Rehabilitation Medicine) to Louisiana Veterinary Medical Association Professor, Section improve the health and wellbeing of Louisiana’s horses Chief, and EHSP Director

LSU SCHOOL OF VETERINARY MEDICINE EQUINE HEALTH STUDIES PROGRAM

Peter F. Haynes, DVM, MS, DACVS, Dean School of Veterinary Medicine Louisiana State University Frank Andrews, DVM, MS, DACVIM, Director, EHSP Baton Rouge, Louisiana 70803 Ky Mortensen, MBA, CFRE, Director of Advancement, EHSP Administration 225-578-9900 Ginger Guttner, MMC, Editor Large Animal Clinic 225-578-9500 Small Animal Clinic 225-578-9600 Michelle Reed, Administrative Specialist www.vetmed.lsu.edu ON THE COVER Spring Means birth and growth

With spring, come foals, and this issue includes articles about foal breeding and health. The LSU Veterinary Teaching Hospital provides a full range of services for our equine, farrm, and small animal patients. http://www.vetmed.lsu.edu/vth&c/default.htm

Page 6

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Lawsonia intracellularis...... 2

Grant to Study Equine Adult Stem Cells...... 4

Facility Update...... 5 Page 16

Breeding For Early Foals...... 6

Foal Diarrhea and Pneumonia...... 10

Call for Foals with Infectious Arthritis...... 14

Forman Foundation Scholarships Continue

Strong Support...... 15

Fresh Horses...... 16

Publications & Presentations...... 19 Page 16

The EHSP newsletter is published by the Louisiana State University, School of Veterinary Medicine, Office of Public Relations. Communications should be addressed to Editor, EHSP Magazine, School of Veterinary Medicine, Louisiana State University, Baton Rouge, LA 70803, or sent via e-mail to [email protected]. Research

Figure 1: Ultrasound image of small intestinal thickening in a foal with Lawsonia intracellaris infection. Lawsonia intracellularis: An emerging pathogen in weanling foals

Ann M. Chapman, DVM, MS, DACVIM Assistant Professor of Equine Medicine

awsonia intracellularis is the causative agent enteropathy in foals and the importance of this disease to of equine proliferative enteropathy (EPE), an equine breeders. intestinal disease of weanlings and yearlings. LProliferative enteropathy (or PE) caused by Lawsonia intracellularis is a gram-negative bacteria that Lawsonia intracellularis has been an important disease in the lives inside mammalian cells. The bacteria has a worldwide commercial swine industry for many decades, but it was not distribution in pigs, and in horses it has been identified in identified in foals with intestinal disease (enteropathy) until North America (U.S and Canada), Europe (Switzerland, 1996. Recently, veterinarians in Louisiana and other areas Great Britain, Belgium), Africa (South Africa), and Australia. of the U.S. have observed an increased number of foals Affected foals generally show signs of the disease between infected with Lawsonia. This article will discuss proliferative 4 to 7 months of age, shortly after the weaning period.

2 However, the disease has also been identified in yearlings. Abdominal ultrasound is a useful tool in Transmission occurs either by fecal-oral or environmental- identifying intestinal thickening in affected oral routes, although the exact source of infection in foals (Figure 1). horses is unknown. Researchers have identified Lawsonia intracellularis sporadically in indigenous wildlife on farms However, a normal abdominal ultrasound does not rule out with endemic EPE. However, a definitive link between the Lawsonia intracellularis infection. Lawsonia intracellularis identified in these animals (including pigs) and infected horses has not been established. The Definitive diagnosis of EPE due to Lawsonia intracellularis stresses associated with weaning and the weaknesses in the in a live foal can be challenging. The gold standard test immune system may be fundamental to the development of for confirming the disease is to identify the organism on the disease in foals. intestinal tissue using immunohistochemistry or special stains, such as Warthin Starry stain. This requires either surgical Once ingested, Lawsonia intracellaris preferentially biopsy or necropsy to obtain tissue samples. However, invades the epithelial crypt cells of the small intestine. The testing antemortem using immunoperoxidase monolayer organism causes these surface cells to proliferate resulting assay (IPMA) can be used to detect the presence of serum in severe intestinal thickening, thus the name, “proliferative antibodies to Lawsonia intracellularis. Serum antibody titers enteropathy.” After initial infection, affected foals may > 1:60 are considered significant and suggestive of recent demonstrate few symptoms, and the disease may be missed. infection or exposure to the organism. However, studies But as the intestinal thickening progresses, clinical signs have found clinically normal horses with a positive IPMA include: test. Also, colostral antibodies may be detected in foals younger than three months of age; therefore, this test should • diarrhea be interpreted in conjunction with clinical signs of disease. • weight loss Fecal samples can be tested for presence of the organism by using polymerase chain reaction (PCR). PCR testing is very • poor growth sensitive and can detect very small numbers of bacteria in • severe edema feces. Unfortunately, false negative results can occur since the bacteria is not shed constantly in infected animals, and • reduced appetite fecal shedding may stop quickly after treatment is initiated.

• lethargy A presumptive diagnosis of Lawsonia • intermittent fever intracellularis infection can be made based on the presence of clinical signs in • colic. conjunction with low blood albumin, low The most common bloodwork abnormalities found in affected blood protein, a positive serum IPMA test foals are low blood protein and albumin concentrations. This (>1:60), and/or a positive fecal PCR. may occur because the affected intestinal tissue becomes inflamed in response to infection, which allows blood proteins Treatment of EPE includes both antibiotics to eliminate to escape into the bowel. With severe diarrhea, the protein the bacteria and supportive care. Doxycyline, tetracycline, losses can be considerable. Also, thickened intestinal tissue chloramphenicol, clarithromycin/rifampin and azithromycin/ may have reduced ability to absorb nutrients, especially rifampin may be effective antimicrobial therapies for amino acids, which are the building blocks of protein. This affected foals. There is no consensus regarding the duration causes a relative nutrient deficiency that may result in weight of treatment, but a 21-day course of therapy has been loss and poor growth. A complete blood count may reveal suggested. Supportive care for foals with EPE includes increased white blood cell count and fibrinogen, most likely intravenous (IV) fluids, plasma transfusions, and nutritional the result of intestinal inflammation and infection. support. It is not known whether foals infected with Lawsonia intracellaris pose a significant risk to herdmates. However, other infectious agents may also cause diarrhea in foals;

3 therefore, precautions should be taken to isolate diarrheic the distribution and prevalence of Lawsonia intracellularis in foals until recovery is complete. Lawsonia intracellularis does the U.S. horse population. Studies are on-going at Louisiana not appear to infect people. State University and in Kentucky to identify the prevalence of Lawsonia intracellularis exposure and infection in foals While the majority of foals that are infected with Lawsonia and mare. The results of these studies may provide useful intracellaris survive, early diagnosis and therapy is vital information to better understand and prevent this disease in to a successful outcome. Severe or complicated cases the future. carry a poor prognosis and survival is reduced in these foals. Currently, a vaccine is available for prevention of Lawsonia intracellularis is emerging as an important cause the disease in pigs, but is not licensed for horses. Recent of diarrhea, weight loss, and poor growth in foals. While it research performed in foals at the has is concerning that more cases of EPE have been identified examined the immune response to this vaccine following oral in recent years, this may be due to an improved awareness and intra-rectal administration. Early results of these studies of the disease and advances in detection. Horse breeders are promising, but more work is needed to determine if this should remain attentive of signs of EPE so that an early will be an effective preventative in foals. Little is known about diagnosis can be established. ■

LSU Researcher Receives Grant to Study Equine Adult Stem Cells

Dr. Mandi Lopez, associate professor and director of the of decades of research, treatment of broken bones in the LSU Laboratory for Equine and Comparative Orthopedic horse is still fraught with difficulty. This is often due to Research (LECOR), received a competitive grant award unique characteristics and complications of the equine from the Grayson-Jockey Club Research Foundation to patient, tragically highlighted by the 2006 Kentucky Derby study equine adult stem cells for repair of injured bone. champion, Barbaro. Methods to promote and increase Dr. Lopez’ grant is for $157,830 and runs from April 1, the rate of bone healing will significantly contribute to 2010, through March 31, 2012. Dr. Jeffrey Gimble of the successful treatment of broken bones in the horse Pennington Biomedical Researvh Center is a collaborator on the grant, which will provide funding for a large scale Adult equine stem cells offer a promising solution to the investigation within the LECOR. challenges of fracture treatment in horses. Approximately 70 million adult stem cells are required to repair a single The prestigious Grayson Jockey Club Research Foundation cubic centimeter of bone. Based on current research, is dedicated to improving the health and soundness of only two adult tissues in mammals have the potential to horses and funds approximately $1 million yearly divided provide this number of stem cells: adipose (fat) and bone. among 18-20 research groups worldwide. With Louisiana “In studies within our laboratory, adult equine adipose- playing host to a $2.45 billion horse industry, Dr. Lopez and derived (ASCs) and bone marrow-derived (BMSCs) stem the LSU School of Veterinary Medicine’s Equine Health cells had the ability to form bone in cell experiments,” said Studies Program play an integral role in LSU’s flagship Dr. Lopez. “In order to be placed at the site of the bone agenda by addressing the vital needs of this lucrative injury, stem cells are loaded onto absorbable carriers. To component of the state and national economies. date, there has been little research on the bone forming ability of equine ASCs and BMSCs on different carriers. Broken bones are a common problem in horses, especially We plan to determine the best combinations of equine adult race horses. As many as two in 1,000 racing starts are stem cells and carriers that increase the rate and quality associated with a severe injury, the majority of which of bone healing in the horse. Results from this study will involve a broken bone. In the U.S., over 80% of horses significantly advance treatment of broken bones in the killed in racing or training sustain a broken bone. In spite horse.”

4 Facility Update

Before Large Animal Hospital Gets Upgrade

n the fall of 2009, the LSU Veterinary Teaching Hospital system, and, since it is bonded so well to the substrate, had new flooring installed in the barn. The Sika Purcem nothing can get under the flooring like with mats or tile 22 Decorative flooring offers several benefits over coverings. concrete. The system seals the concrete with a 1/4” Ithick barrier against contamination. Since Purcem is naturally Using a clear topcoat over a green colored ceramic coated antimicrobial due to the dense nature of the mortar and quartz granule not only adds the right amount of slip topcoats, it is much easier to clean and disinfect. It also offers resistance, but gives the flooring a nice uniform appearance an integral cove base so that dirt and bacteria are easy to that resists scratching and scuffing. remove using hot water and mild scrubbing with detergent. Since the coating was installed, there have been many The system is also more durable since it is more than twice positive comments about how it has improved the cleanablilty as strong as concrete. With over 6000 lb. PSI compressive and sanitation standards of the facility, which allow LSU to strength, it is almost impossible to wear through the flooring offer state-of-the-art Large Animal Treatment service. ■

After

5 Reproduction

Mare in estrus.

Breeding For Early Foals

Sara K. Lyle, DVM, PhD, DACT Assistant Professor of Theriogenology

ne of the greatest problems limiting the day breeders. In addition to light, mares are also somewhat production of foals is man. Despite what we sensitive to ambient temperature. Adequate nutrition, know about the anatomy and reproductive especially energy, is necessary to overcome the stress of physiology of horses, many breed organizations winter and the low temperatures of early spring. Mares need Ohave arbitrarily assigned January 1 as the birth date of foals. to be in good condition or a positive energy balance before Therefore, breeders strive to get their mares to foal close they will begin to cycle properly. to the first of the year in order to give the foal the maximum number of days to grow before becoming a year of age the Mares may have one of three cycle patterns during the year. following January 1. This yields the largest weanlings for the Seasonally polyestrous mares have a definite physiological halter ring, the largest yearlings for the sales, and the most or ovulatory breeding season and periods of anestrus where mature two-year olds at the racetrack. they have no ovarian activity (follicular development and ovulation). This type of mare enters and exits the breeding Mares are photosensitive breeders. Their season is initiated season with irregular cycles. These irregular periods are by increasing amounts of daylight, and thus we call them long termed transition periods. During these transition periods

6 mares can show variable cyclic irregularities. The average Owners frequently confuse behavioral problems or urinary first ovulation was April 7 on a large broodmare farm in north tract problems for heat. Unlike cows, homosexual riding is not central Florida. Latitudes north of this region will experience seen in normal mares. Since mares do not ride each other, ovulations later in the year, whereas latitudes south of this we are forced to resort to observing the mare’s response to region will experience ovulations earlier in the year. This is the a “teaser” male. Teasing is extremely beneficial for efficient most common pattern of cyclicity with approximately 80% or breeding and allows more accurate identification of mares mares displaying this pattern. that are truly exhibiting estrous behavior and thus receptive to breeding. Polyestrous mares cycle regularly throughout the year and seem to be less responsive to ambient light. The closer The estrous cycle of the mare averages 20-21 days. She that one gets to the equator, the greater the number of usually remains in heat (estrus) approximately four to seven mares that are polyestrous because day length is less days, but this varies with the mare and the season. The variable throughout the year. These mares will have an period of estrus is often longer during the transition periods, occasional period of anestrus that does not seem to have and early or late during the physiologic breeding season. any relationship to the time of year. Irregularly polyestrous Signs of heat are typically not displayed during diestrus, mares cycle regularly during the breeding season similar to which lasts 14-16 days. Thus, the cycle length (estrus + the seasonal mare and they have irregular cycles during the diestrus) averages approximately 20-21 days in most mares. transition season. But unlike the seasonal mare, these mares Occasionally mares ovulate during diestrus, which lengthens never really enter a true anestrus period. They cycle year- the number of days that she is out of heat (“prolonged round like the true polyestrous mare, but the cycles during diestrus”). In the normal cycling mare, variations in the length the winter months of these mares are very irregular, thus the of the cycle are usually due to variations in the length of name “irregularly polyestrous.” Although the cycle pattern may estrus. Regardless of the length of estrus, most mares ovulate be confusing, mares tend to fit one pattern throughout most 24 to 48 hours before the end of heat and most mares are of their lives and only occasionally deviate from their usual often bred on the second and fourth days of a five-day heat. pattern. Thus a reproductive history of the previous season(s) can be quite helpful in managing the mare during subsequent Determining the stage of the mare’s reproductive cycle based breeding seasons. on clinical signs and response to a teaser male are useful in breeding management of the mare. Estrus: The mare in The next major problem in equine reproduction arising from heat raises her tail, squats, urinates frequently in the male’s people is confusion about what constitutes estrous behavior. presence (“breaks down”), winks (everts the clitoris), and

Natural daylength compared to photoperiod manipulation

Natural Daylength Under Lights

Breeding Season Breeding Season

April 1 October 1 October 1 Vernal Autumnal Autumnal Transition Transition Transition February 15 Vernal Transition Anestrus

January 1 December 1 Anestrus December 1

7 does not kick or strike at the male. Most mares wink a few these activities are usually delayed – the majority of mares times after urination but the estrous mare shows exaggerated will not be cycling until mid-May. Thus, normal reproductive winking even before urinating. Some mares may be resentful physiology is working against us in getting conception in initially when teased (especially maiden or dominant mares, February, March, and April. or those recently introduced to the herd), but then they “break down” and become receptive to the stallion with continued Comparing the most fertile periods of the mare and the teasing. Therefore, the handler and observer must be patient stallion, with the traditional breeding season for a breed with these mares. Diestrus: Mares not in heat squeal, pin having a January 1 birth date, it is evident that the peak of their ears, and strike and/or kick when the male approaches. equine fertility occurs at the end of the stud season. In fact, Passive: The passive mare shows little or no positive or fertility of the male and female is much reduced in the first half negative signs. A mare will usually not be passive the entire of the season. The normal gestational (pregnancy) length of estrous cycle, but will either display negative signs during the mare is approximately 11 months with a range of 320- diestrus and be passive during estrus, or, display positive 360 days. So if we add a month to the foaling date we can signs during estrus and be passive during diestrus. Thus, determine which month most mares conceived the previous close observation and obtaining an accurate history regarding year. Even though most breeders attempt to get January, past cycles is important in managing these mares. February, and March foals, most foals are born in April and May; therefore, conception occurred in May and June, Understanding an respectively. individual mare’s What can we behavioral pattern is do to overcome valuable in assessing or manipulate her response to the nature to make male, which helps the mare’s determine the stage reproductive of her cycle. A good physiology record keeping capable of system records the producing earlier reproductive tract foals? findings and the teasing results and When scientists can be useful to discuss the role predict the onset of of light in initiating the next heat. reproductive cycles, they Now that we understand the different patterns of the mare’s divide the day into the photophase (light) and the scotophase reproductive cycle and how to detect estrus, we need to (dark). They have also been able to define an inducible compare events in the natural breeding season with events period when light exposure can initiate the hormonal events in the arbitrarily defined stud season. The percentage of that cause a mare to begin to cycle. Extending light into the mares showing estrus in any month doesn’t reach 70% until inducible period over time causes initiation of cycles. In the the middle of March. Some of the mare’s early displays of mare, the inducible period occurs 8-10 hours after the onset heat are associated with follicular development that does not of darkness (or the scotoperiod). The amount of light needed result in ovulation and formation of a corpus luteum (CL); this is 10 foot candles (1 lux) at the level of the mare’s eye. This is typically occurs during the transitional period. The percentage usually equivalent to a 100 watt bulb for a 12 x 12 box stall or of mares that have ovulated as assumed by the presence of two 40 watt fluorescent bulbs per box stall. The light level can a CL on the ovary may not reach 70% until mid- to-late April, be tested by using a 35mm camera with the film speed set to and the peak of ovulation activity occurs from the middle 400 and the shutter speed at ¼ second. Place a styrofoam of July to August. On farms were nutrition is suboptimal, cup diffuser over the lens and set the aperture for the correct

8 exposure. The f stop should be about 10 or greater to days) is the most commonly used progestin in this category. ensure sufficient light. Alternatively, sufficient light should be Progesterone (100 mg/day, intramuscularly, once daily, available to stimulate the mare if one can comfortably read a seven days) will give similar results to Regumate®, although newspaper (paper held at the level of the mare’s eye). many mares find daily injections objectionable. Long-acting progesterone formulations are also available that provide Artificial light schemes have been used to induce cycling concentrations in the blood stream for seven to 10 days that in mares for years. The length of the transition period is is similar to daily injections of progesterone. No matter what unchanged, but the anestrus period is either eliminated formulation is used, it is important to remember that they will or greatly shortened. Three basic light methods have not have an effect if used in early transition. Most commonly, been used. They all begin about 60 to 75 days prior to the progestins or progesterone is used beginning in the middle of desired date to begin breeding. Abrupt Method: This method March for a mare that has not been under lights. involves extending the duration of light to 16 hours with lights beginning around December 1. Although this scheme Domperidone (0.5 mg/lb, orally, once daily) and sulpride (0.5 is not as physiological as other methods, it is effective, but to 0.7 mg/lb, intramuscularly, once daily have also shown to may result in higher electricity bills than some of the other shorten the transition period in some, but not all mares, by methods. Gradual Method: The day length is increased by ½ 10 to 20 days when given to mares in transition, but not in hour per day on a weekly basis. Practically, this is achieved mares in winter anestrus. Sulpride may be somewhat more by adding two to two-and-a-half hours of light after sunset effective than domperidone in this regard. Best success was starting December 1. By February 1, mares are receiving 16 seen when mares were either in mid-transition, or had been hours of light per day. Intermittent Method: This method may on light supplementation for 30 days prior to treatment. A very be the most physiological and is also the most conservative of recent study using mares in deep anestrus compared a longer electricity, but requires the purchase of a timer switch for the course of treatment (25-days) with either oral domperidone lights and is the most complicated to regulate. In this case, or intramuscular sulpride beginning on February 3. Eighty day length is lengthened to 10 hours, followed by eight hours percent of the sulpride-treated mares ovulated within 36 to of darkness, then two hours of light, and another four hours 38 days of treatment; while only 20% or domperidone treated of darkness. The two hours of light in the middle of the night mares ovulated within 30 days of the beginning of treatment. occurs during the inducible period. Alternatively, one hour of The pregnancy rate on the first cycle for the sulpride-treated light 9½-10½ hours after the natural onset of darkness is also mares was 40%, but was 70% for the domperidone-treated effective. mares. Taking into account these per-cycle pregnancy rates, sulpride still advanced the establishment of pregnancy by 38 Once mares are on a lighting program they should be kept days. The take home message from these findings would be under the lights until the natural daylight reaches 16 hours. that sulpride will likely hasten the first ovulation; but, if either Otherwise they may react as if it were autumn and have considerable expenditure for breeding is necessary or if the irregular cycles similar to the fall transition period. Another mare has difficulty in eliminating the fluid and inflammation consequence of a lighting program is that these mares shed after breeding, breeding on the first estrus should be their hair coats early and, therefore, may need to be protected discouraged. from the cold in colder climates. Mares under lights will still have transitional cyclic irregularities, but these are moved Supplemental lights are still the most commonly used method up to earlier in the year, prior to the onset of the breeding to advance the onset of the cycling season. By moving the season. physiologic ovulatory season into February, we get better breedings, earlier conceptions, and mares foaling closer to The ability of hormones to shorten the transition season has January 1. ■ received considerable research attention. Progesterone and progestins (hormones that have progesterone activity) don’t truly shorten transition, but “regularize” the first ovulation in most mares provided that they are in either mid- or late transition. Regumate® (1 mL/110 lbs, orally, once daily, 12-15

9 Clinical Update

Figure 2. Caregivers feeding mare’s milk to a foal that is too weak to nurse through a nasogastric tube. The feeding tube has to be carefully placed in the stomach and secured by a veterinarian. Milk should not be syringed into the mouth of a weak foal. The swallow reflex is weak in sick foals and this can allow the milk to run into the lungs causing pneumonia.

Foal Diarrhea and Pneumonia Susan Eades, DVM, PhD, DACVIM, Professor of Veterinary Medicine and Ann Chapman, DVM, MS, DACVIM, Assistant Professor of Equine Medicine

ignificant illnesses occur in growing foals species (Figure 1). When this diarrhea occurs in the first between the age of one week to four months. 7-10 days of a foal’s life, it is called foal heat diarrhea. This These illnesses range in severity and may cause physiologic diarrhea is not caused by the mare’s foal heat insignificant effects, growth retardation, or death. but may result from, changes in intestinal microbial flora SAppropriate monitoring of foal health throughout the suckling during normal intestinal development. During periods of rapid period is important so that therapeutic intervention is initiated growth, milk consumption (and other feedstuffs) increases early in the illness to reduce the consequences. Foal diarrhea and may result in bacterial fermentation of milk into osmotic and foal pneumonia are the most common diseases affecting products causing nutritional diarrhea. Unknown mechanisms growing foals. causing diarrhea also likely exist in the developing intestinal tract. Foals with foal heat and nutritional diarrhea have loose Diarrhea is an inevitable event in the life of neonates of all stool with no other problems. Body temperature, appetite,

10 strength, and activity levels are all normal. Foals that are only severe cases when diarrheic losses and shock are severe, a few weeks of age should suckle frequently (at least hourly) hospitalization for continuous fluid therapy is imperative. and so will likely nurse each time their caregiver comes to Medications that reduce the severity of the diarrhea (kaolin, observe their behavior. Foals that do not suckle during 2 pepto bismol, and loperamide) are sometimes used. These consecutive periods of observation should be examined for an drugs may reduce the severity of fluid losses but do not infectious diarrhea. Body temperature should be taken at the result in intestinal healing. Di-tri-octahedryl smectite is onset of diarrhea and twice daily until the diarrhea resolves. one medication that reduces the water content of the stool The volume and frequency of the diarrhea should also be and also absorbs some of the toxins that may damage the checked. Foals that are less than one week of age, have intestinal wall. Pneumonia and joint infections are possible abnormal nursing behavior, have diarrhea of greater than 2 complications. Antibiotic therapy is sometimes prescribed days duration, are weak, have body temperature above 101.5 to prevent or treat these complications. Gastric ulceration is degrees F, and have watery diarrhea occurring frequently another possible complication of diarrheal disease that can (more than 6-8 times per day) should be examined by a reduce nursing and cause colic. Foals with severe diarrhea veterinarian. In some cases, waiting until a foal completely that will not nurse may have to be supplemented with a stops nursing to seek veterinary treatment can reduce foal feeding tube (Figure 2). Electrolyte or milk supplementation survival. Severe dehydration and shock can develop very should not be forced by syringe into the mouth of a foal due to quickly in foals with infectious diarrhea making veterinary the risk of aspiration pneumonia. assessment an emergency to avert severe illness or death. A complete blood count and chemistry will help the veterinarian Careful caregiver monitoring is the key to successful assess the severity of the illness and develop an appropriate management of foal diarrhea. Differentiation between foals plan for fluid and electrolyte replacement therapy. with noninfectious diarrhea (foal heat and nutritional diarrhea) and infectious diarrhea: Rotavirus, Salmonella, Clostridium, Lawsonia intracellularis, • nursing behavior and parasites (e. g. small strongyles, Parascaris equorum,

Strongyloides) are the common infectious causes of foal • strength diarrhea. Rotavirus is a viral disease that most frequently affects foals a few days to 3 months of age and often afflicts • severity of diarrhea more than one foal on a farm. The virus spreads commonly • general attitude from the feces of older foals and mares that may have milder diarrhea or no clinical signs in the case of adults. Feces can • measuring body temperature. be submitted to the laboratory to identify the virus in the feces. Salmonella and Clostridium are bacteria that can cause severe diarrhea with damage to the intestinal wall. Salmonella is detected by culture or molecular testing (PCR) of feces. Clostridial infection (difficile or perfringens) is detected by testing the feces for the toxin produced by these bacteria. Parasitism is most often detected by fecal testing for ova; however, small strongyles can sometimes cause sufficient intestinal damage to lead to diarrhea before ova are produced by the adult parasites in which case fecal testing for ova is negative. As with diarrhea in the adult horse, a cause is not diagnosed in approximately 55% of cases of foal diarrhea suggesting that the available tests are accompanied by many false negatives or that an additional unknown etiology exists.

Intravenous fluid therapy with the appropriate electrolytes Figure 1. Young foal with diarrhea stools on the rump is the most important part of treatment of foal diarrhea. In and ground.

11 Figure 3. Ultrasound image of the thorax of a foal with Rhodococcus pneumonia. This examination allowed demonstration of this abscess (arrow) and measurement of its size. Sequential examinations demonstrated the abscess getting smaller as treatment progressed.

Foals with infectious diarrhea can develop dehydration and There are some preventative strategies that may reduce the shock very quickly and need veterinary attention for fluid and incidence of foal diarrhea on a farm: electrolyte, antibiotic, and shock therapy. • reducing the stocking density

If the foal is less than three days old, • foals should be segregated according to age develops a fever over 101.5 degrees F, slows nursing, becomes depressed, if the • foals with signs of infectious diarrhea should be diarrhea is profuse or lasts more than 2 separated from healthy foals

days, the foal should receive immediate • caregivers should change footwear and wash veterinary attention. hands before after handling these ill foals.

If the foal is older, has mild diarrhea and is bright, active, alert, Foal Pneumonia and nursing, with a body temperature less than 101.5 degrees F, careful monitoring should continue until the diarrhea Foal pneumonia is a common and serious problem for the abates. In addition, the foal’s rump should be cleaned at least equine industry. Foal pneumonia most commonly affects foals daily and a barrier ointment applied (e. g. zinc oxide). 1 – 6 months of age. Rhodococcus equi and Streptococcus equi are the most common organisms causing foal Lawsonia intracellularis is a new emerging disease in foals pneumonia. Rhodococcus and Streptococcus are normally (see article on page 2).

12 found in the respiratory tract of healthy horses. The reasons Thoracic ultrasound can be used to demonstrate the number why some animals develop pneumonia from these bacteria and size of lesions on the surface of the lung helping to are not completely understood but the age of the animal determine the cause, severity and prognosis (Figure 3). at the time of infection, immunologic factors, differences Thoracic radiographs (x-rays) demonstrate lesions deeper between different strains of the same bacteria, travel, heat in the lung tissue (Figure 4). A transtracheal aspirate (wash) stress, parasitism, dust, weather conditions, and pasture involves placing a small cannula and tube into the trachea overcrowding are all factors. using mild sedation to remove some of the exudate created by the infection. Examination of the material under the Clinical signs include: microscope (cytology) will demonstrate the bacteria and inflammation. Culture of the fluid will reveal the cause of the • fever (body temperature greater than 102 pneumonia and allow testing for the most effective antibiotics. degrees F) Fecal ova counts may confirm parasitism. Any or all of these

• coughing tests may be utilized by a veterinarian in the assessment of each case. • labored breathing

The key to successful treatment of foal pneumonia is early • nasal discharge detection. The most effective means of screening foals for • loss of appetite. early pneumonia is by measuring the body temperature of each foal twice daily. Body temperatures at or above 102 However, many foals with pneumonia, especially those with degrees F on 2 occasions or above 102.5 degrees F on 1 Rhodococcus equi do not cough or have nasal discharge occasion should be reported to a veterinarian for additional and do not develop labored breathing until the lung damage diagnostic screening. The next step of screening often is severe. These foals may only exhibit subtle changes in involves measurement of CBC and/or thoracic ultrasound behavior such as reduced activity or exercise intolerance examination which determines whether further diagnostic when running at pasture. Therefore, early detection of testing or treatment is necessary. Treatment of early cases disease sometimes requires daily or twice daily monitoring of was highly successful. Ultrasound screening was continued body temperature and screening by assessment of CBC and in subsequent years and led to a decrease in the incidence of thoracic ultrasound examination by a veterinarian. pneumonia on this farm.

Figure 4. A radiograph of a foal with multiple lung abscess (arrows) due to Rhodococcus pneumonia.

13 The recommended treatment for foal pneumonia • reduce the stocking density varies depending on the bacteria causing the infection. Streptococcus organisms are best treated with penicillin or • use effective parasite control strategies cephalosporins. Rhodococcus infections are best treated with macrolide antibiotics (erythromycin, clarithromycin, and • minimize the dust in the environment azithromycin). Mixed infections may require combinations of drugs. Any antibiotic carries the risk of causing diarrhea which • administration of hyperimmune plasma can sometimes be life threatening. When an owner observes diarrhea in a treated foal, it is best to stop the therapy and • preventative administration of antibiotics. contact the veterinarian for further instructions. The macrolide antibiotics carry the highest risk for causing diarrhea and can Both foal diarrhea and pneumonia can develop into severe also cause increases in body temperature and risk of heat fatal disease and can result in outbreaks in groups of foals. stroke. It is optimal to confirm the diagnosis of Rhodococcus Outbreaks usually involve multiple etiologies rather than a infection before using these medications. single organism. Treatment is most effective when initiated in the early stages of the disease so foals should be monitored Preventative strategies for foal pneumonia include closely for changes in behavior and increases in body temperature. Veterinary assistance should be sought early in the disease. ■

Call for Foals with Infectious Arthritis

Septicemia and secondary complications remain a common clinical problem in foals. Infectious arthritis and osteomyelitis (bone infection) are severe complications often secondary to an infected umbilicus, pneumonia and enteritis, and septicemia. Diagnosis of infectious arthritis is generally based on clinical signs of joint swelling and fever. Radiography is used to assess the affected joints for signs of osteomyelitis, which carries a poor prognosis if detected. Investigators in the Equine Health Studies Program at the Veterinary School are combining efforts with those in Diagnostic Imaging Service at LSU to assess whether MRI can be used to better assess the joints of foals that are suspected of having infectious arthritis. MRI can detect bone lesions associated with inflammation earlier than radiographs. A study is now available at LSU to examine the joints of foals affected with infectious arthritis with MRI. If you have a foal that you think might qualify for the study please call Dr. Lorrie Gaschen at 225-578-9591 or the LSU Veterinary Teaching Hospital & Clinic at 225-578-9500.

14 Advancement

From left, Hannah Cavendar, Ky Mortensen, Amy Norvall at the LSU School of Veterinary Medicine’s 2009 Awards & Honors Banquet. Forman Foundation Scholarships Continue Strong Support

hanks to the Harold G. Forman Family Foundation, Zealand, and her own endeavors have led her into the heart in 2009 two veterinary students received of Louisiana’s equine industry where she hopes to secure an scholarships to help offset the financial costs of internship in private practice following graduation. obtaining their veterinary education. Amy Norvall T(Class of 2011) and Hannah Cavender (Class of 2010) were Hannah Cavender hails from Ruston, La., and initially came recipients of $2,500 each. to veterinary school with no thoughts of becoming an equine veterinarian. During her first year, her passion was directed Harold Forman, a Thoroughbred owner and breeder from toward the horse. “Dr. Dan Burba was really instrumental in Folsom, La., established the scholarships four years ago and fostering my interest in the horse,” said Cavender. “The time continues to provide support for LSU veterinary students. Due he took to answer all of my questions during my first year was to Mr. Forman’s strong dedication to the Louisiana equine invaluable and really helped give me a good foundation for industry, his family Foundation provides support to students pursuing this area of veterinary medicine and make it a part who show a strong commitment to equine veterinary medicine of my career track. I’d like to do an internship or maybe even and who demonstrate an interest in Louisiana’s equine specialize.” Cavendar eventually plans to return and set up industry. shop in Ruston.

Amy Norvall arrived at LSU several years ago to begin her Scholarships for veterinary students are an important and undergraduate degree and then proceeded on to veterinary vital piece of the educational process. For information on the school. “I grew up on a farm outside of Harare, Zimbabwe,” scholarship program or questions on how you can establish a said Norvall. “To be honest, I never dreamed I would one day scholarship for students at LSU SVM, contact Ky Mortensen be in Louisiana studying veterinary medicine.” The influence at 225-578-9590 or [email protected]. ■ from her brother, an active Thoroughbred Jockey in New 15 15 Advancement

Duma and her filly, Cadeau, who was born at the LSU School of Veterinary Medicine.

Fresh Horses

reeding…the lifeblood of an industry. Whether success it enjoys year in and year out. It is the foals of spring it’s the quest for the perfect cow horse, the next that make a herd thrive and that guarantee the longevity of equine officer on duty for the Mounted Patrol, or those bloodlines we favor the most. With an equine industry that perfect nick with your finest black type mare; as robust as we have in Louisiana it is an industry worthy Bbreeding is where it’s at. And it happens to be exactly where of investment, and it deserves to be complemented with an LSU is headed next. equally robust equine medical center with a keen focus on reproduction. It has long been touted that the Louisiana equine industry has immense value to the state’s economy—$2.45 billion LSU currently boasts four board-certified theriogenologists annually at last count and that’s been a few years now. at the School of Veterinary Medicine. These veterinary Fresh horses fuel that industry and allow it to perpetuate the specialists in reproduction concentrate the bulk of their work

16 on horses and dogs—two areas of animal breeding with Success begets success, and our progress will continue. significant economic drivers. There is no shortage of expertise Horse owners visiting the equine hospital will notice that the or of animals that will require reproductive assistance. What entire floor of the clinic has been renovated with a new non- we lack, however, is a state-of-the-art facility where the best slip surface, putting a fresh new face on our facility. and brightest can explore new frontiers and promote a full menu of offerings in the realm of animal reproduction. In Much of what has been accomplished has happened because short, we need a new breeding facility, and we’re on our way of you, the horse owner. Private financial gifts have allowed to making that need a reality. so much to be gained in the realm of equine health care at LSU. The Intensive Care Unit, the Equine Lameness and For the past several years, a number of significant Performance Evaluation Unit, the MRI, and the Isolation Unit improvements have been made to the equine hospital at were all heavily aided with the generous support from our LSU. A cutting-edge Intensive Care Unit was opened in 2004. industry. For that we thank you, and hope you are as proud That same year construction was completed on the Equine as we are of what we have been able to accomplish. Lameness and Performance Evaluation Unit through the generosity of a private donation from Jean Pfieffer-Burt. Over As the power of Louisiana’s equine industry continues to the past year, new stall fronts have been installed on all of increase in strength, so too does our focus on the next the equine patient stalls in the hospital. New medical records signature facility we plan to bring to fruition—the LSU rooms have been constructed. A new MRI was purchased Veterinary Reproduction Center, which will be built on River and installed in April 2009. Road just north of the main hospital. With its own entrance and outpatient stalls, the new facility will provide outpatient In 2010, construction will begin on the second phase of stalls for over a dozen stallions and mares. Mare and the Equine Lameness and Performance Evaluation Unit, foal stalls will be available, and a covered collection area which will feature an enclosed farrier’s room, a lameness will be constructed so that teaching activities and clinical diagnostic room, and two outpatient stalls for patients being service can be performed in the most optimum environment treated exclusively for lameness. At the same time, thanks possible. Horses visiting our facility will begin to be housed to the massive support of a private gift and state funding, in an entirely different facility from the hospital, drastically our long-awaited Large Animal Disease Isolation Unit will minimizing their possible exposure to horses that may be ill. also begin construction, featuring over 11,000 square feet of new construction and boasting ten true isolation stalls, Current plans indicate that the new reproduction facility including a mare and foal stall and large animal stall. These will require approximately $3.5 million in funding. This is improvements are scheduled for completion by July 2011. not a small project. A significant demonstration of financial

Artistic rendering of the proposed Veterinary Reproduction Unit.

17 support will be necessary to bring this plan to fruition. It is To learn more about the LSU Veterinary Reproduction Center our hope that with the thrust of Louisiana’s breeders and and how you can help this project become a reality, please equine enthusiasts behind this project, a signature program of contact Ky Mortensen at 225 578 9590 or send him an email excellence will be established at LSU in the realm of equine at [email protected]. ■ reproduction.

Additional Construction

Artistic rendering of the new Large Animal Isololation Unit.

Schematic showing the new enclosed farrier’s room, which will be part of the Equine Lameness and Performance Evaluation Unit.

18 Publications & Presentations

Faculty Presentations Management of distal limb wounds in the Equine Laminitis Research: What’s Next horse Dr. Frank Andrews Regional limb perfusion in the horse British Equine Veterinary Association CVC East (Advanstar) Birmingham, England Update on therapies for equine joint Baltimore, Md. - May 6-8, 2009 September 10-12, 2009 disease Update on treatment and Effects of top-dress formulations of pathophysiology of laminitis suxabuzone and phenylbutazone The American Farriers Association Hirsuitism and Obesity on development of gastric ulcers in 38th Annual Convention Equine neonatology horses Chattanooga, Tenn. - February 27, 2009 Foal pneumonia The Ins and Outs of Working in a Horse Cases in equine hepatic disease Facility with Established Biosecurity Cases in Equine Cardiac Disease Equine Nutrition Training Conference Madrid, Spain - September 26-28, 2009 Equine Urinary Tract Disease Diet and treatment of gastric ulcers in American Association of Equine horses Practitioners- Focus on the Foot Dr. Bruce Eilts Columbus, Ohio - July 19, 2009 Annual Meeting of the Society for Surgical Treatment of Equine Foot Florida Association of Equine Theriogenology Disorders Albuquerque, N.M. Practitioner Conference Marco Island, Fla. - October 1-3, 2009 August 25-29, 2009 Gastric and colonic in horses 55th Annual Convention AAEP Educators forum - Teaching Las Vegas, N.V. - December 5-9, 2009 Theriogenology at Louisiana State Management of Skin Tumors in Horses University 55th Annual Convention AAEP Las Vegas, N.V. - December 5-9, 2009 Evaluation of regional limb perfusion Dr. Ann Chapman Annual Fall Conference for with amikacin using the saphenous, Louisiana Veterinary Medicine Veterinarians cephalic and palmer digital veins Association Annual Equine Baton Rouge, La. - November 7, 2009 Effects of Suxibuzone and phenylbuzone Seminar Canine Reproduction for The General on development of gastric ulcers in Shreveport, La. - September 27-29, 2009 Practitioner horse Lawsonia intracellularis: an emerging Evaluation of dimethyl sulfoxide on disease in Louisiana weanlings Dr. Jill Johnson endotoxin-induced delayed gastric 3rd International Symposium on emptying in horses Dr. Susan Eades Geospatial Health LSU SVM Phi Zeta Day Naples, Italy - September 3-6, 2009 September 23, 2009 Temporospatial tracking of Salmonella LSU SVM Phi Zeta Day September 23, 2009 Quantification of Toll-like Receptor gene infections in hospitalized equine Quantification of Inflammatory Gene Expression in Horses with Naturally- patients Expression in Insulin Resistant acquired vs. Experimentally-induced Horses in Comparison to Normal Laminitis (poster) Universidad Nacional Autonoma de Horses (poster) Salmonellosis in LSU Equine Hospital Mexico 8/31/2000 to 5/19/2009 (poster) Presentation to graduate students and Assessment of Cardiac Function, faculty at UNAM Dr. Ralph Beadle Skeletal Muscle Morphology and October 27, 2009 LSU SVM Phi Zeta Day September 23, 2009 Muscle Enzymes in Horses on Long- Implementación de Un Sistema de Effects of Athletic Conditioning on term Clenbuterol Therapy (poster) Información Global (GIS) para Horses Affected with Degenerative investigar Infecciones Nosocomiales Suspensory Ligament Desmitis 5th International Equine Conference por Salmonela en un Hopital (poster) on Laminitis and Diseases of the Veterinario Foot West Palm Beach, Fla. Dr. Dan Burba Universidad Nacional Autonoma de November 6-8, 2009 Southwest Veterinary Conference Mexico San Antonio, Texas Laminitis Research: Louisiana State October 22-23, 2009 September 26, 2009 University Curso Avanzado de Medicine Interna En Indications for and performing guttural Equinos: Diagnostico Basado en pouch lavage in the horse 2nd AAEP Foundation Equine Problemas Indications for and performing joint Laminitis Research Workshop Desmayo, Colapso Y Convulsiones lavage in the horse West Palm Beach, Fla. Anafilaxia Indications for and performing peritoneal November 8-10, 2009 Los 10 Grandes de Colico lavage in the horse Overview of What We Know About the Miopatias. Diferentes Condiciones con y Indications for and performing sinus Pathophysiology of Laminitis sin Ejercicio lavage in the horse Clinical and Matrix Metalloproteinase Anemias: Diagnostico Diferencial Management of degloving injuries in the Inhibitory Effects of Pentoxifylline on Edemay y Linfangitis: Diagnostico horse Carbohydrate Overload Diferencial Laminitis Rhodococcus Equi 19 Poliurua/Polidipsia Research Society on Alcoholism 55th Annual Convention AAEP Orina de Colores Scientific Meeting Las Vegas, N.V. - December 5-9, 2009 Problemas de Coagulacion y alternativas San Diego, CA Preliminary Evidence of Fetal Cortisol June 20-24, 2009 Production in Response to Dr. Marge Gill Alterations in adult mesenchymal Inflammation in a Model of Equine LVMA stromal cell growth, expansion, and Placentitis February 2009 pluripotential associated with chronic High Risk Pregnancy in the Mare (table Small Ruminant Case Studies Cattle alcohol consumption topic) Case Studies Effect of chronic alcohol consumption on Preliminary Evidence of Fetal Cortisol adult mesenchymal stem cells Production in Response to Dr. Mandi Lopez Inflammation in a Model of Equine Academy of Surgical Research Annual LSU SVM Phi Zeta Day Placentitis Meeting September 23, 2009 High Risk Pregnancy in the Mare (table New Orleans, La. Comparison and Quantification of topic) Sept. 26, 2009 Equine Adipose and Bone Marrow Animal Models of Human Derived Adult Stromal Cell 5th Leipzig Expertworkshop on Musculoskeletal Disorders Adhesion, Viability, Proliferation, Equine Reproductive Medicine and Induction Behavior on Three Leipzig, Germany - January 22, 2010 Center for Gene Therapy, Tulane Bioabsorbable Scaffolds (poster) Maturation of the Equine Fetal University School of Medicine Optimization of the Scaffold Seeding Hypothalamic Pituitary Axis New Orleans, LA Density and Osteogenesis of High Risk Pregnancy in the Mare September 9, 2009. Equine Adult Stem Cells (EASCs) in – Practical Implications for the Adult Stem Cells, Alcohol, and Biodegradable Scaffolds (poster) Practitioner Osteoarthritis - Animal Models to Chronic Alcoholism and Osteoarthritis: Promote Scientific Evaluation of the Relationship Dr. Rebecca McConnico Discovery between Alcohol Ingestion and 7th Annual Purina Equine Veterinary Articular Cartilage and Tendon Conference ACVS Symposium Matrix Changes (poster) St. Louis, Mo. - October 2-4, 2009 Washington, D.C. Generation of a Computer Model using The Role of the Veterinarian in October 8-10, 2009 Kinetic and Kinematic Data of Community- Disaster Preparedness Effects of monopolar radiofrequency Equine Motion of Therapeutic Riding and Response energy and diode laser energy on (poster) Equine Internal Medicine Case equine distal tarsal joint articular Comparison of In Vitro Adult Canine Management-Ask the experts cartilage (poster) Bone Marrow-Derived and Adipose Osteoprotegerin and receptor activator Tissue-Derived Stromal Cell Growth LSU-Stephenson Disaster of nuclear factor kappa beta Characteristics (poster) Management Institute’s Inaugural ligand expression in normal and Osteoprotegrin and Receptors Activator Board of Director’s Meeting osteoarthritic canine hip joint of Nuclear Factor Kappa Beta Baton Rouge, La. - October 12, 2009 articular cartilage (poster) Ligand Expression in Normal and Research and Training Activities in Impaired pleuripotential capacity of adult Osteoarthritic Hip Joint Articular Animal Disaster Preparedness: stem cells in a rat chronic alcohol Cartilage in a Canine Model (poster) From Katrina to now abuse model (poster) Acceleration of Spinal Fusion Using Syngeneic and Allogenic Adult SCAAEP Meeting LSU Health Sciences Center, Adipose Derived Stem Cells in a Rat Mississippi State University, College of Physiology Department Model (poster) Veterinary Medicine, Starkville, Miss. New Orleans, La. Laboratory for Equine and Comparative April 6, 2009 March 19, 2009 Orthopedic Research (poster) The Role of the Veterinarian in Disaster Adult Stem Cells: Species, Models, and Inverse Dynamic Analysis of Horse Gait Animal Response Applications (poster) Alterations in Adult Mesenchymal USDA Foreign Animal and Emerging Center for Gene Therapy, Tulane Stem Cell Growth, Expansion, Diseases Symposium University School of Medicine and Pluripotential Associated with , Knoxville, New Orleans, La. Chronic Alcohol Consumption Tenn. - August 3-7, 2009 September 9, 2009 (poster) The Role of the Veterinarian in Disaster Adult Stem Cells, Alcohol, and Animal Response Osteoarthritis - Animal Models to Dr. Sara Lyle Promote Scientific Discovery Society for Theriogenology Annual LSU SVM Phi Zeta Day Meeting September 23, 2009 Henry Ford Hospital Albuquerque, N.M. - August 25-29, 2009 Examining the Pharmokinetics and Detroit, Mich. Endometritis in dogs – current knowledge Safety of Firocoxib, a COX-1 sparing July 17, 2009 and future consideration NSAID (poster) Chronic alcoholism, adult mesenchymal Preliminary evidence of fetal Descriptive Epidemiologic Study of stem cells, and rapid onset hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis Equine herpes Virus-1 (wild-type) osteoarthritis activation in an experimental model Infection at a Racetrack (poster) of infective preterm delivery in the mare 20 Dr. Mustajab Mirza February 2009 Bronchial Oxidative Stress in Equine LVMA Committee Conference An in vitro biomechanical comparison Recurrent Airway Obstruction Shreveport, La. - September 28, 2009 of a 5.5 mm locking compression (poster) EHSP update plate fixation with a 4.5 mm Evidence for Interaction between locking compression plate fixation Endothelin Receptors in Equine Dr. Colin Mitchell of osteotomized equine third Airways (poster) 2nd AAEP Foundation Equine metacarpal bones Laminitis Research Workshop 4th World Equine Airways Symposium West Palm Beach, Fla. LSU SVM Phi Zeta Day (WEAS) November 8-10, 2009 September 23, 2009 Bern, Switzerland Deep Digital flexor tenotomy as a Amelia in a Calf-A Case Report (poster) August 3-10, 2009 treatment for horses with chronic Role of endothelin-1 in equine recurrent laminitis (poster) Dr. Ashley Stokes airway obstruction WEVA Dr. Dale Paccamonti Sao Paulo, Brazil - September, 2009 House Officer Presentations Potential role of the toll-like receptor Puerto Rico Veterinary Medical Dr. Timm Gudehus signaling pathway in equine laminitis Association ACVS Symposium San Juan, Puerto Rico - November 2009 Serial equine laminar tissue collection via Washington, D.C. - October 8-10, 2009 Artificial insemination in dogs biopsy in conscious healthy horses. Applicability and performance of HA Insemination strategies in the mare (poster) coated 5.5 mm cortical AO screws in Pathophysiology of endotoxemia Equine cortical bone Annual Meeting of the Society for How to be published in a top journal A review of the pathophysiology of acute Theriogenology Dr. Myra Durham Albuquerque, N.M. laminitis ACVS Symposium August 2009 Critical analysis of journal articles Washington, D.C. - October 8-10, 2009 Research Update: Mare Models and methods for laminitis Insertion Properties of Transfixation Pins research 55th Annual Convention AAEP Multi-drug resistance (MDR-1) gene ACVS Symposium Las Vegas, N.V. and P-gp identification and their Washington, D.C. - October 8-10, 2009 December 5-9, 2009 regulatory effect on methadone in Evaluation of intra-abdominal adhesion Becoming a Diplomate of the American horses formation and tissue integration College of Theriogenologists by the Expression of inflammatory-related of laparoscopically placed alternative route genes in the liver and laminae from polypropylene and condensed healthy and laminitic horses polytretrafluoroethylene meshes in Disaster preparedness and the role of Dr. Laura Riggs horses (poster) LSU SVM Phi Zeta Day veterinarians in the community– September 23, 2009 Getting outside of the clinic: lessons LSU SVM Phi Zeta Day Evaluation of Intra-Abdominal Adhesion learned from hurricanes Katrina, September 23, 2009 Formation and Tissue Integration Rita, Gustav, and Ike Evaluation of intra-abdominal adhesion of Laparoscopically Placed formation and tissue integration Polypropulene and Condensed LSU SVM Phi Zeta Day of laparoscopically placed Polytetrafluroethylene Meshes in September 23, 2009 polypropylene and condensed Horses (poster) Oral Absorption and Pharmacokinetics polytretrafluoroethylene meshes in of Methadone HCL and Intestinal horses (poster) 2nd AAEP Foundation Equine Multidrug Resistance Gene Expression in Horses (poster) Laminitis Research Workshop Dr. David Beehan West Palm Beach, Fla. Use of SmartPill GI Monitoring System 55th Annual Convention AAEP November 8-10, 2009 to Measure Gastric Emptying Time Las Vegas, N.V. - December 5-9, 2009 Equine Neutrophil Elastase in Plasma, (GET) in Ponies (poster) How to Diagnose Common Equine Laminar Tissue, and Skin of Reproductive Tract Bacterial Horses Administered Black Walnut Dr. C.S. Venugopal Pathogens Using Chromogenic Agar Heartwood Extract (BWHE) Experimental Biology National Meeting Graduate Student Presentations ACVS Symposium New Orleans, La. Washington, D.C. - October 8-10, 2009 April 5-9, 2009 Lin Xie Evaluation of intra-abdominal adhesion Evidence for interaction between 55th annual AAEP National formation and tissue integration endothelin receptors in equine Convention of laparoscopically placed airways Las Vegas, N.V. - December 2009 polypropylene and condensed Bronchial oxidative stress in equine Effects of Athletic Conditioning on polytretrafluoroethylene meshes in recurrent airway obstruction Horses Affected with Degenerative horses. Suspensory Ligament Desmitis LSU SVM Phi Zeta Day Dr. Gary Sod September 23, 2009 Veterinary Orthopedic Society 36th Role of Endothelin -1 in Equine Annual Conference Recurrent Airway Obstruction Steamboat Springs, Colo. (poster) 21 Non-Profit Org. U.S. Postage PAID Permit No. 733 Baton Rouge, LA

Louisiana State University Baton Rouge, Louisiana 70803

“It has become increasingly apparent over time that the future of unique value-added initiatives in the School of Veterinary Medicine will rely primarily upon the generosity of private donors who believe that our programs are highly valued by the broad society that we serve.”

Dr. Peter F. Haynes Dean, School of Veterinary Medicine