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Volume 17 - 2020
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Respiratory Research for Racehorses
horse breath
Exercise Induced Pulmonary Hemorrhage (EIPH) is estimated to affect between 44 – 85% of Thoroughbreds and up to 87% of Standardbreds worldwide. 

There is concern in racing circles that EIPH can shorten a racehorse’s career and in rare worst-case scenarios cause sudden death from massive hemorrhage. 

Dr. Janet Beeler-Marfisi (OVC, Department of Pathobiology) and her collaborators plan to use data from air quality monitoring stations and weather stations near Woodbine and Woodbine Mohawk Park racetracks cross referenced with endoscopic exams to determine if there are patterns between EIPH and horses exercising in areas of increased air pollution or in cooler temperatures.

Collaborator Dr. Alison Moore first approached Beeler about the project, based on listening to industry concern from astute racetrack veterinarians who felt there could be an association between environmental conditions and the occurrence of EIPH. 

“It’s currently on people’s minds”, says Beeler.  “This research is born out of the desire to provide optimal health for equine athletes and will involve trainers, owners and veterinarians working together to find answers to the question of environmental influence.”

Beeler expects that smog and racing during cool or cold months will have the highest likelihood of a statistically significant association with EIPH and decreased racing performance, basing this hypothesis on literature from endoscopically diagnosed EIPH in Ontario Thoroughbreds and Standardbreds.


Just as humans can modify their exercise based on a quick glance at weather reports, if the findings of this study confirm links to EIPH and smog in horses, trainers and veterinarians can work to lessen the effects on the horse. Some management changes may include altering training times or intensity on days with high smog or colder temperatures or adjusting post times. Ultimately, further research on a link between EIPH and air pollution could reveal more information about the development of EIPH and reduce reliance on medications such as furosemide. 

This project is possible due to a grant from Equine Guelph, generously supported by Ontario Racing. It will be important to trainers and veterinarians in the Ontario racing industry; especially to those with racetracks in close proximity to highways and airports.

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EquiMania on Tour
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"Fun and learning about horse welfare and how to safely work with equines comes together in perfect balance at EquiMania!," says Equine Guelph director, Gayle Ecker.

Since 2005, EquiMania! has grown into a hugely popular travelling exhibit, gaining international awards and delighting horse lovers across North America!

Don't miss the interactive youth education program promoting horse health and safety in 2020, beginning with Can-Am in Markham.

In 2019 EquiMania! was available to millions of visitors:

Minnesota State Fair
Canadian National Exhibition (CNE)
Royal Agricultural Winter Fair
Horse Capades
Can-Am All Breeds Expo
Mohawk Fireworks Night
Paris Fair
Brooklin Spring Fair
Erin Fall Fair

We could not do it without our loyal sponsors and wonderful volunteers.

Thank you ESSO, Greenhawk, Kubota Canada, Ontario Equestrian, Shur-Gain, SSG Gloves, Standardbred Canada, System Fencing and Workplace Safety and Prevention Services.

Want to be part of the 2020 tour? Eq4kids@uoguelph.ca
Mark your calendar

EquiMania! at Can-Am All Breed Equine Expo, Markham, ON April 3-5

Equine Guelph Summer Semester Online courses begin May 4
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