1. Dormosedan (detomidine)  is a non-narcotic injectable drug used for sedation during minor procedures. Owners may want to use it when a horse has difficulty dealing
 
with the farrier or for clipping. It is better that your horse does not struggle so this drug can be useful.  The vet administers this injectable form IV, using a smaller dose than
 
when a horse owner administers it IM or intramuscularly. There is a new form of dormosedan which is an oral gel called Dormosedan Gel packaged in a dewormer-like tube.
 
(It must be administered under the tongue when the horse does not have a mouthful of feed. Follow packet instructions.)  After it is given, wait 40 minutes before a
 
procedure so the drug has a chance to work, keeping the horse in a quiet place to allow the drug its full effect. No food should be available for 2 1/2 hours after
 
administration because of the increased risk of choke due to the decreased reaction of muscles. Before this first feeding, you should observe your horse
 
to see if it has recoved from the drug.  Dormosedan has not been evaluated for use in pregnant and lactating horses.  Call us if you need Dormosedan Gel.
 
 
  
2.   New studies from a variety of university vet schools have reaffirmed the importance of quick action with ice when laminitis occurs. Cold is known as the gold standard
 
treatment. There are a variety of ways to accomplish this but basically they recommend ice applied to the feet in two hour intervals. Allow the feet to warm. Then apply the
 
ice again for 2 hours. Repeat. Repeat. The latest study uses  cut off wader boots in some form!   
  
Soft rubber buckets would also work and would be safer than metal buckets.  They recommend ice up to the level of the fetlock. There are also drugs that will be beneficial
 
such as bute. The vet may want to use other drugs such as DMSO and special foot pads.   Of course, plenty of bedding will also help the horse feel better.   
 
Call us if you have any questions. 
 
 

AURAL  PLAQUES

The University of Minnesota Veterinary School reports that the immune modulator imiquimod incites cytokines to attack plaques which are tumor-like viruses. The cream creates a reaction in the plaque before it can heal. Before each treatment the scab is removed before re-applying the cream. Total treatment time averages 3 to 4 months with most horses showing a complete cure, if the owner is diligent.

Aural plaques

ORAL  DORMOSEDAN  (detomidine gel)

The use of the oral formulation of this sedative has been shown to be effective in a study with a large group of horses.

STRANGLES  VACCINE 

In a study now being conducted by the Karolinska Institute in Stockholm, a new vaccine(using recombinant proteins from  S .equi) has shown excellent protective results. This experimental formulation has no living organisms and no risky side effects employing recombinant technology that is used with other vaccines.  While not available yet, perhaps this new approach will be available next year. The strangles vaccines currently in use offer significant protection but they are not as effective as other vaccines such as  eastern/western encephalitis, West Nile virus, and rabies vaccines.

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