Conversations from The Pegasus Podcast In the digital age, storytelling and lifestyle influencers have become potent forces in shaping perceptions and interests across diverse realms. Nick Luciano, a powerhouse in the Western lifestyle and social media landscape, has carved a niche that blends videography, entrepreneurship, and the rugged authenticity of Western sports. Recently, Nick sat down with us to share his journey from being a videographer to a social media influencer with a massive following and how he’s leveraging his platform to promote Western culture and positivity. Who is Nick Luciano? Nick Luciano, a 27-year-old social media influencer and entrepreneur, is rooted in the Western space, even though he didn’t initially start there. A graduate of UNT, Nick’s journey into the Western world began when he moved to Texas and started filming videos for ranches and Western events on the side during college. His content, encapsulating elements from his life, such as his dog Bullet and horse Diesel, gained traction and helped him build a substantial online presence, notably with 350,000 followers on Instagram and an impressive 7 million on TikTok. Leveraging Influence in the Western Space Nick describes himself as a “jack of all trades” in the Western sports domain, participating in events, partnering with brands like Ariat, and involving himself deeply in the culture. As someone who didn’t grow up riding horses, his integration into the community was facilitated by his videography skills, which soon turned into a platform for influencing. While Nick’s social media presence exploded with the help of viral content, notably a video leading to his nickname “the sugar crash guy,” he views the Western influence narrative as dual-faceted. The so-called “Yellowstone effect” might have drawn mainstream attention, but Nick believes it’s partly due to people seeking authentic and rural lifestyles, a reaction to contemporary urban complexities. Supporting and Promoting the Western Lifestyle Nick’s commitment goes beyond social media. He champions the Western lifestyle by consulting with clinicians and supporting their platforms through creative video content. He perceives himself as a bridge for audiences, showcasing both the struggles and triumphs of becoming part of the Western world. Moreover, Nick discusses significant efforts to grow the industry beyond traditional boundaries by experimenting with new marketing strategies that bring together different facets like music and rodeo, enhancing PBR events’ appeal. Bulletproof Mindset and New Ventures Nick’s influence extends into entrepreneurial ventures, notably his apparel brand Luciano Westernware, a venture deeply rooted in promoting a “Bulletproof Mindset.” This brand isn’t just about selling clothes but fostering a sense of community and personal development, supporting others through initiatives like proceeds for wildfire relief and donations to animal shelters. Embracing Challenges and Building the Future Alongside apparel, Nick has launched Club Bulletproof, an online community designed to foster mental health and personal growth. Here, he offers motivational talks and practical advice, cultivating an environment where members can work toward their aspirations supported by peers with similar goals. Transitioning from support roles to a central figure in the Western space, Nick faces the challenges that come with being a visible advocate and influencer, including dealing with misconceptions and negativity. Nevertheless, he remains focused on his mission to inspire and motivate others by transcending traditional Western boundaries and engaging new audiences. As the industry evolves, Nick represents a shift towards utilizing technology and media to widen the Western lifestyle’s appeal, proving the power of storytelling and authenticity. Whether you’re a fan of Western sports or someone looking for inspiration to pursue your passions, Nick Luciano’s journey provides an inspiring example of how blending passion with modern media can create impactful change while remaining true to one’s values and community. Be sure to follow him on TikTok and Instagram @theNickLuciano to keep up with his latest endeavors and insights. Listen to this episode of The Pegasus Podcast with Nick Luciano, hosted by the founders of Pegasus, on Spotify, Apple, or wherever you listen to your podcasts.
Disaster Planning for Horses in Hurricanes, Tornadoes and Flooding, Part Three
By Lori Tankel, Author of Common Sense Horse Keeping HURRICANES, FLOODING AND TORNADOES If you live in any state that touches the Atlantic Ocean or Gulf of Mexico, you will experience a hurricane at some point. Even the West Coast has experienced its share of hurricanes in recent years. If you live inland, the remnants of a hurricane will affect not only you but states that don’t even have a coastline and will experience heavy rain, winds, and tornadoes. Flooding typically goes hand in hand with hurricanes but can also result from torrential rain, or broken dams and levees. They can be slow-rising or fast flash floods, leaving little time to evacuate. Another spin-off of hurricanes can be tornadoes, or they can suddenly appear out of nowhere with very little notice to prepare. Luckily, with today’s technology, most of us live where we can receive tornado warnings on our phones or over the TV, which will give us time to prepare. Hurricanes provide the luxury of having days to prepare as the weather forecasters track them from their inception. However, Hurricane Charlie in 2004 taught us that hurricanes can and do switch paths at the last moment, with those in Central Florida finding themselves with just 6 hours to go from casually preparing for a glancing blow to having to prepare for a direct hit. Hurricane Andrew left farms in South Florida so devastated that the building codes were changed. In the aftermath, nothing was safe in the high winds, and many barns collapsed, leaving horses unaccountable. That disaster was the inception of better disaster planning for animals in the United States. Hurricane Katrina taught us the effect that flooding would cause, with many horses suffering horrible fates of drowning when they were left in their stalls. Most recently, Hurricane Ian in 2022 taught Floridians that no matter where you are in the state, you will have some impact with a hurricane that size. The damage shocked people in Lee County, as the projected landfall was further north near Tampa. When the storm changed its course ever so slightly, those in Lee County were not prepared for the destruction they were about to experience, and sadly, there were reported deaths of horses that were not evacuated from low-lying areas. Despite all the talk on the news, people failed to consider the size of the cone. If you reside within the path of the projected landfall, you will be impacted, one way or another. Because of the unpredictability of landfall of hurricanes, evacuating is challenging to plan. Where can you go that the hurricane won’t follow? With the more horses and animals you have to evacuate, this is a serious question that needs to be answered. This is where Horse TLAER (Technical Large Animal Emergency Rescue) Math comes into play. One must consider how many trips and hours will be required to move horses. Suppose a barn has ten horses to move and only a two-horse trailer and the evacuation facility is a 100-mile round-trip excursion, not to mention the time involved in loading, unloading, and setting up, plus traffic. In that case, the barn needs to begin evacuation very early on. For example, plan 30 minutes to load, and if the trip is an hour and a half (with no traffic) each way, plus another half hour to unload, you need to plan 4 hours for every trip. As the hurricane gets closer, traffic will increase, and your travel time will unfortunately increase as well. In addition, roads may be closed and fuel limited as the hurricane or wildfire approaches, preventing your return to load up more animals. Early evacuation is crucial; if possible, enlist the help of as many people as possible. Evacuating If you decide or are given orders to evacuate, you must do so once the evacuation orders are issued. You should identify the reason for evacuation other than mandatory evacuation orders. Is your barn in the path or cone of a catastrophic storm? Is it in a flood zone? You are at risk for flooding if you live near any lake, river, or swamp. In Central Florida, the north-flowing St. Johns River continued to rise for weeks after Hurricane Ian, causing significant flood damage throughout several counties, with scores of horses needing to be rescued. How is the construction of your barn? Do you have trees or power lines overhead that could fall on it? Will a good gust of wind at greater than 65 miles per hour reduce your shelter to a pile of lumber? These are all questions that should be answered as you develop your evacuation plan. If you didn’t plan ahead, try utilizing social media platforms to find locations to evacuate. If show grounds are full, these are usually good sites where private residents will offer safe refuge. After the storm passes, these are also helpful resources for putting out SOS posts for missing horses, found horses, where to locate hay and feed, and other helpful advice. Even if you feel your horses will be safe at home, it is still a good idea to learn where you would evacuate in case of mandatory evacuation orders or some other major catastrophe that would cause you to leave. Once you pick your location, be sure you have contact information, an address for this spot, and how to get there so you are not left scrambling at the last minute. Have several locations picked out beforehand, and you must call the one you evacuate to make reservations. Many evacuation sites fill up quickly, so have your backup locations. Be sure your truck is gassed up and you know the back roads to your destination. Major highways will quickly become parking lots. The last thing anyone wants to deal with is being stranded on the road with a trailer load of horses, which happened to several people during Hurricane Katrina when snarled traffic caused vehicles to
Disaster Planning for Horses in Wildfires, Part Two
By Lori Tankel, Author of Common Sense Horse Keeping Wildfires are the most frightening of all disasters, as you may have no time to evacuate. All it takes is one careless person to toss their cigarette butt out of their car window during a dry season, a neighbor not paying attention to their burn pile or a wildfire out of control. Such was the case in 2017 when embers from a wildfire over 2 miles away caused a catastrophic barn fire at the San Luis Rey Downs Thoroughbred training center in California, where 46 horses perished and numerous others were severely injured. The best you can do in the case of wildfires is to prepare ahead of time, have an evacuation plan, be able to receive the disaster orders and evacuate as soon as the order is given. Fire officials may close the roads, making evacuation impossible, so it is a good idea to be aware of the fire danger level in your area and have your trailer ready and hooked up to your truck. Have your evacuation kit packed and in the trailer. Some areas of the country are constantly threatened by wildfire: it has become an everyday part of life, so it is a good idea to have drills. In other parts, it is seasonal, usually in the winter months when there is little rain. To safeguard and protect your farm, it is best to do so months in advance: · Identify the risks around your property and address them early on. · Trim shrubs and trees at least 50 feet from your property. Remove the vegetation under them as well. Reduce or remove anything combustible. Remove vegetation along fences and buildings. Trees should be trimmed 6-10 feet off the ground, and limbs should not touch fence lines or hang over structures. · Avoid planting highly flammable vegetation, such as junipers and cypress. Plant and maintain fire-resistive landscaping. · Avoid using wood mulch. Instead, use fire-resistant materials such as stone or gravel around the perimeter of structures. · Inspect buildings for anything that may ignite from embers, including oil cans. During wildfire season, remove mowers, tractors, etc., from the barn area and keep the roof and gutters free of debris that may ignite from embers. · In known wildfire areas, storing hay, shavings, and other combustible items in a structure separate from the barn is best. · Install sprinkler systems in the barn and even on the roof of structures. · When building a new barn, use fire-resistant materials such as stucco and metal instead of wood. · Ensure vehicles are gassed and in working order. · Prepare your evacuation plan with evacuation routes and facilities. Plan more than one route, as one route may be blocked by fire or smoke. · Have your emergency binder with all health records and store it in a truck or trailer. · Make sure you have working fire extinguishers and smoke detectors. A rule of thumb is one extinguisher at every entrance and every 30-50 feet. · Practice trailer loading · Study the FIREWISE programs online for suggestions. Hopefully, you have done your due diligence. Now, there is a wildfire in your area. What should you do? With a wildfire approaching: · Decide whether to evacuate or shelter in place. If you have been following the news reports, you should have your trailer hooked and ready to go at a moment’s notice. · If you evacuate, do it as soon as possible. Do not wait for smoke or flames to impact your horses. Blocked roads kill people as fire overtakes them. It is better to leave too early than too late. · Be sure to have your evacuation kit already in the trailer. · If you do not evacuate, post signs at the entrance of your property and the barn informing first responders you are there and listing the number and types of animals sheltered in place. · Use social media to connect with equine evacuation routes and sites and find assistance. · Speak to your veterinarian about having tranquilizers ready. Low-flying helicopters, smoke, and fire trucks may agitate your horse and make loading difficult. If loading proves to be difficult and time is running out, what is your next plan of action? Turn the horse loose or start walking the horse out? · If the horse is turned loose, ID the horse with at least 2 ID options. It is best to turn them loose without a halter, as halters can catch fire. · Close structure openings to prevent ember ignition. · Remove flammable items away from the structure. Remove propane tanks and grills from the area. · Open gates connected to fencing for easy access by firefighters or animal rescues. · Turn on lights so structures are visible to firefighters, or if your jurisdiction suggests, turn them off. · Connect garden hoses to spigots. · Shut off the gas at the meter and the pilot lights. · Have carriers or crates ready for your small pets, whether cats, dogs, rabbits, poultry, or goats. Dressing rooms make excellent spaces for pets, but it is best if they are confined. Large dog crates will hold goats or just about any farm animal in a pinch. For more on the topic of disaster planning, check out Your Horse Checklist for Natural Disasters and Disaster Planning for Horses Part One and Part Three. About Common Sense Horse Keeping Common Sense Horse Keeping is an essential guide for horse owners and stable managers, providing comprehensive advice on proper horse care. Tailored for those managing a boarding business as well as individual horse owners, this book covers critical topics such as nutrition, 1st aid, disaster planning, fire prevention, and pasture management. It also offers insights on choosing the right boarding stable and managing horses at home. Readers will learn to interpret hay analyses, perform fecal egg counts, and adopt environmentally friendly practices in the barn. With practical tips from social media, stable owners can enhance their management skills, and horse owners can become better boarders. The book explores various boarding options, amenities, services and fee structures. Contracts, insurance, employees and barn rules are
Disaster Planning for Horses, Part One
By Lori Tankel, Author of Common Sense Horse Keeping No matter where you call home, your farm will be subject to some natural disaster or local emergency, whether it be hurricanes, tornadoes, wildfires, floods, a hazmat disaster, or an outbreak of a contagious disease. Being prepared is the best way to lessen the impact of any potential effects. Other disasters include high wind events, heat waves, blizzards, earthquakes, mudslides, hail, and power grid failure. All of these events affect horsemen worldwide. However, your location or climate will dictate which events you may experience. Some will experience only one type of natural disaster, but local emergency types of disasters can affect anyone, anywhere. Some may experience more disasters more often than others, and some people seem to attract disasters! With the prevalence of wildfires in California, many farms practice fire drills. In Florida, it is not uncommon to prepare for a hurricane, only for the hurricane to switch its path at the last minute. I call this having a drill! Boarder Considerations: As a potential boarder, one should ask the following questions: • How does this facility prepare for disasters? • What is your evacuation plan? • What are the responsibilities of the horse owner in a disaster? • What are the responsibilities of the barn owner? • How will the property be prepared? • Is there a written disaster plan to be shared with boarders? • Is there a monthly or quarterly Safety Committee meeting to discuss relevant preparations, planning, and review of management and maintenance issues? • If the horses are not evacuated, what will the barn owner do to ensure their safety? • Do I need a Power of Attorney to allow someone else to make decisions for my horse if I cannot be contacted or reach the location? • Do I need to sign a waiver or a legal document to ensure a mutual understanding of how my horse may be evacuated in case of a disaster? Planning As a barn owner/manager, it is your responsibility to identify which weather disaster you may be subjected to and have a plan for how to deal with it. Determine if your county Emergency Plan includes animals, specifically livestock. Your boarders should be made aware of your plans by way of safety meetings and in their contract so that they may know how to prepare their horse in accordance with your plan and also so that they can partake in emergency drills. Having a plan in effect will help you deal with each disaster’s challenges in a calm and organized manner. A disaster plan is just as important as having a fire plan. All horses should be able to load, and training days should be held often, including loading at night and in the rain. A horse that won’t load will be at risk of being left behind in a disaster or will be released to fend for itself. Unfortunately, horses tend not to do well when left on their own. Hazard Assessment Identify what type of disaster or disasters are common in your area and then formulate a plan that will work for you and your boarders. Enact a plan, share your plan with your boarders, and have drills. Identify your risks and vulnerability if you shelter in place. This includes accounting for water, natural gas, electricity, transportation, vet services/medical care, feed, and forage. Identify potential local or regional evacuation facilities based on location and disaster. It would help if you had a shelter close by in case of a barn fire evacuation, another location across town for a catastrophe that will affect only a small area, such as a power outage or chemical spill, and a location much further away in the event of hurricanes or wildfires. Remember that in the event of hurricanes and wildfires, the location you choose may also be affected by changes in the direction of the winds or flooding. Many people have had to evacuate two or three times when trying to get out of the way of these major disasters. Be prepared to pay a fee for emergency stabling, as they incur costs for helping you in an emergency, although some facilities will waive all fees. Those who decide to evacuate should plan on staying with their animals and should be a gracious guest, taking care of their animals as if they were at home and cleaning up after them. Don’t take advantage of the hosts and leave your stalls a mess when you leave, or it may not be available the next time you need it. Don’t expect to leave your animals either, and expect someone else to feed and water your horses and clean their stall. By basing your disaster plan on the most common disasters that strike your location, you will be able to expand on your plan, whether the orders are to leave immediately or to shelter in place. Having the right app or website for your jurisdiction’s communications will help you make your decision in an orderly amount of time. An “all-hazards” approach will mean that one good disaster plan can be applied to other less common events, especially since some disasters will create smaller events, such as tornadoes and flooding resulting from hurricanes. Write the plan down, drill it, and make changes as needed. Make sure that every boarder has a copy as well as phone numbers for contacts and post it next to your fire plan. Hold drills at a minimum every few months and change the time and condition. What if the horses are all out in their pastures? Can you be as effective at night or in the rain or snow? The goal is to ID, load, and evacuate in the quickest amount of time for evacuation plans. For shelter-in-place drills, the goal is to identify and prepare the facility for disaster,
Your Horse Checklist for Natural Disasters
By Lori Tankel, Author of Common Sense Horse Keeping It’s a busy time for Mother Nature, unleashing hurricanes, floods, wildfires, droughts, heatwaves and other disasters to remind us that we are just peons in her grand scheme of life and she can make our lives miserable in an instant. If you have horses, this is a particularly stressful time as we figure out what is best for our animals in such situations. If you are staying put during a disaster, such as a hurricane, you need to have a plan. This includes doing the following: If you do decide to evacuate, whether due to wildfires, a catastrophic hurricane heading your way or for another event, you need do have an evacuation kit ready: Evacuation Kit We cannot get through our time on this planet unscathed by Mother Nature. As a horse owner, it is your responsibility to your horse to be as prepared as possible! How you come through the storm will depend upon how well you are prepared. About Common Sense Horse Keeping Common Sense Horse Keeping is an essential guide for horse owners and stable managers, providing comprehensive advice on proper horse care. Tailored for those managing a boarding business as well as individual horse owners, this book covers critical topics such as nutrition, 1st aid, disaster planning, fire prevention, and pasture management. It also offers insights on choosing the right boarding stable and managing horses at home. Readers will learn to interpret hay analyses, perform fecal egg counts, and adopt environmentally friendly practices in the barn. With practical tips from social media, stable owners can enhance their management skills, and horse owners can become better boarders. The book explores various boarding options, amenities, services and fee structures. Contracts, insurance, employees and barn rules are discussed. It also delves into the implementation of disaster plans and the importance of understanding horse’s mental well-being, among other valuable subjects.
What Does it Take to Care for Horses Competing at the Highest Levels?
Happy Tuesday partner, The world of elite equine athletes is as fascinating as it is complex. Behind every stunning performance at the Olympics or a world-class competition lies a dedicated team of professionals ensuring that horses are in peak condition. In our recent episode of The Pegasus Podcast, we had the pleasure of hosting Dr. Liberty Getman, a Doctor of Equine Veterinary Medicine and an Equine Technical Services Veterinarian with Zoetis. Dr. Getman shared her invaluable expertise on what it takes to care for horses – regardless of the level of competition. Below are key takeaways that we discuss on the podcast: #1. The Passion Behind Equine Veterinary Medicine Dr. Getman’s journey into equine medicine started with a deep love for horses and a passion for helping them thrive. As a board-certified surgeon and sports medicine specialist, she’s been at the forefront of elite equine care for over 20 years. One of the things that drives her work is the joy of helping horses compete at the highest levels, ensuring their well-being both in and out of the competition ring. #2. The Parallels Between Human and Equine Athletes Dr. Getman draws fascinating parallels between the care of elite human athletes and the care of high-level horses. Just like ultra-marathon runners, which Dr. Getman is herself, these top-performing horses require a holistic approach. This includes a focus on proper nutrition, consistent rest, and regular health check-ins. A dedicated support team is also crucial, consisting of veterinarians, farriers, trainers, chiropractors, and even acupuncturists. The key is to stay proactive and not wait until a horse is injured before taking action. #3. The Importance of Proactive Care One of the standout points from the discussion is the importance of preventive care. High-performing athletes—whether human or equine—must focus on the little things that add up over time. Proper nutrition, high-quality rest, and preparing for the competition environment are non-negotiable for long-term success. For horses, this means regular vet visits, maintaining a balanced diet, and integrating practices like massage therapy or physiotherapy even before injuries occur. #4. Regenerative Medicine for Horses A key advancement in equine sports medicine is the rise of regenerative therapies, which use the horse’s own cells to heal injured tissues and slow down the progression of diseases like arthritis. Treatments like Pro-Stride® APS and Restigen® PRP are game changers for managing lameness and soft tissue injuries. These therapies work to reduce inflammation while simultaneously slowing disease progression, offering a more comprehensive and long-lasting solution compared to older methods like steroid injections. #5. Injury Prevention is the Key to Longevity Consistent check-ins and attention to detail are the best ways to prevent catastrophic injuries. Being aware of the horse’s physical state at all times and addressing minor issues before they escalate is critical. This proactive approach applies not just to elite athletes but to all horses. As Dr. Getman noted, these preventive steps ensure that horses lead healthier, happier lives and have longer careers. #6. It Takes a Village Caring for an elite equine athlete is no small feat. A horse’s success is dependent on the support network around it. Whether it’s the farrier, chiropractor, or massage therapist, each team member plays a pivotal role. But ultimately, the horse owner is at the center, making informed decisions and ensuring their equine partner receives the best care possible. Elite equine care is about taking care of the fundamentals and having a strong, proactive support team. By doing this, horses can continue to perform at the highest levels while staying healthy and happy. Whether you’re competing in the Olympics or enjoying weekend rides, these insights can help every rider and horse owner take their horse’s well-being to the next level. Listen to this episode on Spotify, Apple, or wherever you listen to your podcasts. Before you listen… Every equestrian competitor knows, a great performance horse score requires the right balance of preparation, feel, and focus. It also requires a happy, healthy horse. Zoetis has been supporting horses, riders, and veterinarians for more than 70 years. With regenerative medicine devices like Pro-Stride APS, Zoetis is always by your side in the barn, down the centerline, and everywhere in between. Visit ZoetisEquine.com or follow @Zoetis Equine on Facebook and Instagram to learn more.
Biosecurity Tune-Up: Broodmare Care Edition
By Abby Sage, VMD, MS, Equine Technical Services Veterinarian, Zoetis From equine herpesvirus and the flu to leptospirosis and rotavirus, a number of threats are dangerous to any horse but are particularly important to guard against in broodmares. Without the right protection, these and other common equine diseases can have a significant impact on pregnancy, even leading to abortion. Fortunately, there’s a lot we can do to ensure the safety of both the mare and foal. Throughout my years as a veterinarian, I’ve become more and more interested in the art and science of designing and fine-tuning broodmare biosecurity programs, and I’m excited to share some of my accumulated wisdom here. The following roadmap can help you build a plan from the ground up or bolster a current one to instill greater confidence. Here are the biosecurity topics we’ll cover: As a board-certified large-animal internist and private practitioner, some of my favorite days include attending to pregnant mares, checking in and making sure everything is progressing to plan. Then there are those quiet moments that take you aback in the sweetest of ways: noticing a newborn nestling up in the fresh straw for a power nap or frolicking out in the pasture while starting to explore his surroundings. I’ll be honest: I’d rather share those moments with you than come into the middle of a potentially infectious disease outbreak. Since we’re discussing proactive biosecurity, it’s important to recognize the gravity of why we take such careful measures to ensure the health and well-being of our mares and the foals we anxiously await each year. One example that hits home for me is what I experienced on a recent farm visit. It took just one horse on the farm to be exposed to equine herpesvirus type 1 (EHV-1) for it to spread to five pregnant mares. That was tough to manage, from logistics to communication to mitigating the spread to other horses on the farm. The broodmares thankfully recovered in the long run, but the staff and attending veterinary crew experienced the anxiety that comes with a potential abortion or how the disease could affect foal growth down the road. What’s tricky about prevention planning is that it sometimes takes a ‘caught off-guard’ moment for a farm to fine-tune (or even create) a biosecurity program. Sometimes circumstances like this can be the greatest catalyst for change. My sincere goal is to help you determine the right protocol so that you do not need to experience a situation like the one above while also having a contingency plan just in case. Essentially, let’s do everything we can to avoid an outbreak together. The following reflections and guidance are designed to do just that. Broodmare travel: quarantine, disinfection and diagnostics I highly recommend a standard 21-day quarantine to keep pregnant mares that are returning to the farm from the breeding shed separate from the herd as they embark on their first trimester. Here’s what a standard quarantine could look like, along with simple yet crucial biosecurity steps to take: SAA is a protein the liver produces in response to infection that can indicate if a horse has an infection. Situations when a veterinarian may use Stablelab include: What to do if a broodmare or another horse in the herd is sick For veterinarians, managing outbreaks requires focus, getting everyone at the farm involved in day-to-day horse care and having the right tools to help read the signs, evaluate our mental decision tree and take action quickly. Here are ways that you can support your veterinary team in the face of an outbreak: 1. Have a written plan in place that covers: 2. Quarantine any horses with elevated temperatures and/or SAA readings for a minimum of 21 days. 3. Check the temperature and/or SAA levels of quarantined horses and monitor exposed horses for signs of infection, which could include: 4. Continue to disinfect all equipment and ensure quarantined horses aren’t sharing feed or water (or, honestly, anything!) and are 30 feet from healthy horses. 5. Keep your veterinarian informed of any significant shifts you notice in quarantined horses while they’re undergoing treatment under the guidance of your care team. How to focus on prevention Although vaccinating doesn’t guarantee the prevention of disease, science has shown that it significantly reduces the risk of clinical signs as well as the duration of disease. Zoetis offers a range of vaccines that protect against some of the more threatening diseases in broodmares, including: Our veterinary team at Zoetis has outlined care guidance by trimester on ZoetisMareAndFoal.com, and we’ve included a snapshot below. This broodmare vaccination schedule aligns with recommendations from the American Association of Equine Practitioners (AAEP) is also a great place to start when discussing plans with your veterinarian. And don’t forget to vaccinate all horses that come into contact with broodmares to provide the most protection! It’s not enough to vaccinate just the broodmares alone. If a broodmare develops an infection of the placenta (placentitis), she may start lactating early and lose colostrum, leading to the failure of passive transfer of antibodies to the foal. The foal is then susceptible to picking up an infection from his surroundings and other horses. If there’s any challenge to foaling that results in a lack of oxygen to the foal, he has an increased chance of being a “dummy foal,” susceptible to systemic infection. These foals cannot rise or nurse and can spiral downhill within a matter of hours without early and aggressive medical care. To do our best to avoid this outcome, I highly recommend that veterinarians utilize SAA testing throughout pregnancy to screen mares for infection as well as test foals for IgG and SAA as part of any newborn foal examination 12 to 24 hours post-foaling. If your veterinarian catches placentitis early, there are measures they can take to help support the colostrum transfer, which is why testing for infection to discover a problem before it could become a bigger issue is so critical. Boosting antibodies in the third trimester to support colostrum The AAEP recommends administration of core disease killed vaccines 4 to
Top Tips to Set Your New Foal up for Success
By Jacquelin Boggs, DVM, MS, DACVIM, Senior Equine Technical Services Veterinarian, Zoetis So, your mare just had a foal—first and foremost, congratulations! We know that many months of solid teamwork and—let’s be honest—a good dose of worry have gone into realizing this miracle. From choosing the sire to preparing your mare for breeding to confirming and monitoring her pregnancy, you and your veterinary team planned it all so carefully and now you have a gorgeous new four-legged family member to brag about. Of course, the responsibility of rearing this precious newborn is just beginning. But don’t worry, you’ve got this. Even so, never forget that your veterinary team is always your first line of help to ensure your foal’s health and well-being, and it takes a village to raise a happy, healthy equine family member. The tips and insights in this blog can be referenced as a care guide for your foal in her first 6 months of life, specifically in months 2 to 6. For foal care tips at birth and for the first few days, check out blog, “Caring for Your Newborn Foal.” Start off on the right hoof with newborn diagnostic tests In prep for newborn foal exams, I typically measure both serum amyloid A (SAA) and Immunoglobulin G (IgG) levels. 1. SAA testing is a valuable diagnostic measure that can help detect infection before other clinical signs appear. At Zoetis, we have a device called the Stablelab® EQ-1 handheld reader that can accurately quantify SAA in 10 minutes.1 If SAA is elevated, it is an early indicator of infection which is helpful to know so that you and your veterinarian can promptly diagnose and treat your newborn foal. 2. IgG testing indicates whether your foal has acquired adequate transfer of maternal antibodies from the mare’s first milk called colostrum. While the IgG test can determine whether your foal has enough antibodies to support their immune system health (to protect against future infection), the SAA test can identify a potential infection that may require additional diagnostic tests or treatment. For additional newborn foal exam tips, emergency preparedness and guidance for the first few hours of life, visit the following blog: “Caring for Your Newborn Foal.” Optimizing growth and development in the first six months Healthy feeding Exercise and play in the first six months Young foals often sleep during the day but should get up to nurse about three to four times an hour. I like to remind clients that it’s important for your mare and foal to enjoy abundant turn out and exercise. One caveat, I’m referring to foals that have no complications—please consult your foal’s veterinarian for physical activity recommendations (especially if there were any issues seen at newborn foal exams). Basically, the less time foals are confined to stalls, the better. Whenever possible, avoid confining them for more than 10 hours per day. Avoid forced exercise or fatigue. Remember that your foal’s immature bones and joints are still growing and developing. Foals with limb deformities or other musculoskeletal problems may need to have their exercise restricted. Estimating body weight can be challenging, but it’s important for tracking growth and ensuring you’re using the correct doses of dewormers and other medications. Planning a vaccine schedule This chart can be a helpful tool to refer to when determining which vaccines your foal will need in the first 6 months. As always, please consult your veterinarian for vaccine and timing recommendations to help prevent your foal from contracting both core and risk-based diseases. View and download this recommended vaccine schedule for foals and check out a snapshot of it below. The recommendations in this chart are based on the American Association of Equine Practitioners (AAEP) Vaccination Guidelines.6 Your foal initially gets maternal antibodies from the mare, but as they begin to wane, it’s important to help protect your foal from common diseases with the appropriate vaccines. In their first year, foals require several doses of both core and risk-based vaccinations to develop protection. The ugly ascarid-deworming foals For the first 6 months of a foal’s life, the lifecycle of the ascarid (roundworm) is oral ingestion from pasture, through the lungs into the GI tract. Therefore, clinical signs associated with ascarid infection can include coughing and other respiratory issues as well as GI signals like colic. Ascarids are the most significant parasite threat to this age group and can restrict your foal’s growth if left uncontrolled.7 The parasite larvae that foals swallow in pasture can also migrate causing coughing and nasal discharge. The adult worms live in the small intestine and can cause colic, intestinal blockage and even rupture. Below are key takeaways in alignment with the American Association of Equine Practitioners (AAEP):7 Target the right parasites at the right time A targeted approach for controlling parasites depends on when your foal was born. The following chart can serve as a helpful guide:7 *At weaning, ask your veterinarian to conduct a fecal egg count (FEC) test to determine if a final roundworm treatment is needed between 6-9 months of age.**If verified still effective against small strongyles through fecal egg count reduction test (FECRT). Do not use Quest® Gel or Quest® Plus Gel in foals less than 6 months of age or in sick, debilitated and underweight horses. Do not use in other animal species, as severe adverse reactions, including fatalities in dogs, may result. Consult your veterinarian for assistance in the diagnosis, treatment, and control of parasitism. Weaning: The next adventure Weaning typically happens between 4 and 7 months of age. After 4 months, a mare’s milk alone does not provide enough nutrition for growth, and most foals are happy eating hay and grain on their own. The first step in the weaning process is to ensure that your foal is eating good quality hay and is comfortable eating a well-balanced ration that supports rapid growth.9 There are a variety of effective weaning methods, but most typically fall into three camps (gradual, abrupt and intermittent).10 It’s a great idea to bring this up as a topic of discussion with your veterinarian to gather their recommendation based on
Nick Luciano’s Journey in Western Sports
Happy Monday partner, Today we’re bringing you the latest edition of The Pegasus Podcast, where we are hanging out with TikTok sensation, Nick Luciano. Nick Luciano and his horse, Diesel If Nick’s name sounds familiar, it’s probably because you’ve seen his viral Sugar Crash video on TikTok – which is the 4th most watched video on TikTok, ever. Or perhaps you’re already one of his 6 million followers and have been alongside his journey into western sports with horse Diesel – diving headfirst into horsemanship with Colton Woods and roping with Hunter Reaume. Nick Luciano at the rodeo This episode is packed with insights and inspiration for anyone passionate about western sports, content creation, and making a difference in the world. In this episode, we discuss: The story behind Nick’s video that became the 4th most-viewed video on TikTok How platforms like TikTok and Instagram are reshaping the cowboy lifestyle The complexities of media rights in the equestrian world Nick’s commitment to positivity and his entrepreneurial ventures like Luciano Western Wear The significant impact of his mental health initiative “Club Bulletproof” and the challenges he faces in maintaining an inclusive, supportive community Starting the first-ever western content creator group, Tratter House …and more! Get inspired by Nick’s innovative approach to content creation, community-building, and his resolve to revolutionize the equestrian industry through both social media and technology. Listen to this episode on Spotify, Apple, or wherever you listen to your podcasts. But before you listen… Every equestrian competitor knows, a great performance horse score requires the right balance of preparation, feel, and focus. It also requires a happy, healthy horse. Zoetis has been supporting horses, riders, and veterinarians for more than 70 years. From regenerative medicine devices like Pro-Stride® APS, to expert-recommended Quest Gel® (moxidectin), Zoetis is always by your side in the barn, down the centerline, and everywhere in between. Visit ZoetisEquine.com or follow us on Instagram and Facebook for more information on our expert-informed horse care solutions.
Caring for Elite Equine Athletes Competing on the World Stage
By Liberty Getman, DVM, DACVS, Equine Technical Services, Zoetis Do you ever think about what it takes to become an Olympian? As many of us gear up to watch the summer games in Paris, we’ll hear time and time again about athletes’ preparation—and the army of supporters who have stood behind them over the years as they ascend to the world stage. But what about horses? What does it take to care for them as they prepare for competition? Surprisingly, there are many parallels between what it truly takes to support an elite human athlete and how horses are cared for during training for equine competitions. In addition to working as an equine surgeon with a sports medicine specialty for over 17 years, I’ve trained and competed in ultra-marathon races and have seen these parallels firsthand. Ultra-marathons are races longer than a marathon (26.2 miles) and can range from 50 to 200 miles or longer. Whether a human or equine athlete, it takes diligence and the right team behind you to establish a strong training foundation to succeed. My support network includes a physical therapist who I work with several times a month, along with instructors in cross-training and yoga and nutritional guidance to help support my body through this demanding work. Horses preparing for Olympic competition have similar demands. The keys to being successful in equine or human athletic endeavors comes down to having a solid support network, nailing the simple things and being proactive. Here’s what that means. It takes a village Have you heard the saying “It takes a village”? Well, it’s also appropriate when you think about what it takes to care for a horse, especially one training for the Olympics. Ensuring a horse stays performance-ready takes a cast of valuable players, all with their own expertise and responsibilities, and all just as dedicated to your horse’s health and the competition as you are. I recently caught up with eventing Olympian Doug Payne, who competed in the 2020 Tokyo Olympics. In addition to running the world-class training center Payne Equestrian, he echoed the need for an army of strong support behind him, saying, “Being on the road for over 40 weeks of the year and managing an Olympic training schedule could not be done without a world-class team. I’ve focused on building a support system of professionals who care about the horses as much as I do, and I trust my team implicitly to ensure our horses stay healthy and are ready for showtime. That goes for everyone, from the grounds staff to the grooms, veterinarians and trainers.” Similarly, when I train for an ultra-marathon, I have a team standing behind me. On a weekly basis, it’s not unusual to have appointments with my physical therapist, converse with my nutritionist and even meet with my trainer for exercise plans beyond just running. My team is invaluable to my success on the trail to the finish line, just like the team standing behind every Olympian at the Paris Games and the one standing behind you and your horse. For the Olympian-level horse, the team behind the scenes often comprises a wide range of professionals, including: While that might seem like a lot, it’s only a few of the people responsible for making it all happen. From the groundskeeper who notices a hole in the ground, a loose fence post, or a nail sticking out of a board—to the veterinarian who administers preventative care, every team member plays a vital role in keeping a horse healthy and on track for competition. The same goes for your horse. Whether an elite equine athlete, a local hunter-jumper or an old, faithful senior horse, he could benefit from having several professionals with varying disciplines to help support his well-being. It’s quite common for a horse’s groom, farrier or massage therapist to notice when something appears off, and they can flag it for the rider, owner and, ultimately, the veterinarian to evaluate. While you may not have as big of a team as horses competing on the world stage, it still takes the dedication and care of many to ensure your horse lives a healthy and happy life. The little things add up You don’t become an elite athlete overnight. Discipline, determination and ensuring all the basics are met create the springboard for success. What’s more, it’s often the little things that have the biggest impact. When I talk to people about training for an ultra-marathon, they often ask about the long runs or intense workouts that my preparation requires. But there are more mundane things that play an equally critical role in my and any athlete’s success, including proper nutrition, high-quality and consistent rest, and getting used to the game-day atmosphere. The same goes for horses. In addition to a well-planned training regime, good nutrition, rest, quality care and preparation for the chaos of a competition are non-negotiable for a horse to be healthy and succeed at high-level competition. “Ultimately, horses’ comfort level on the road plays a major role in their success. We work a lot on desensitizing our horses to novel environments at home by making our training environment as exciting as we can to mimic the intensity of the event atmosphere. We plan to finish up in the barn by 4 p.m. to ensure the horses get plenty of rest with peace and quiet during otherwise hectic periods of time. We also bring our own grain and ensure the highest quality hay when we travel to ensure proper nutrition and keep the horses’ routine as similar as we can to what they experience at home,” said Payne. When it comes to nutrition, be sure to evaluate your horse’s diet and start with simple, high-quality forage and grain. In both human and horse training, there’s often a temptation to focus our efforts on adding supplement after supplement, without tending to the underlying diet. But no amount of supplements can counteract poor nutrition. The same goes for exercise and rest. Exercising
