Polysaccharide Storage Myopathy (PSSM1) is quite common in the European Brabant breed. Approximately two-thirds of all draft horses show evidence of PSSM1, and it has likely been present for hundreds of years (citation: Dr. Beth Valentine DVM Ph.D). PSSM1 is characterized by the abnormal accumulation of the normal form of sugar stored in muscle. While the PSSM1 DNA test exists, a negative result can occur in horses with a milder form, so a negative test does not entirely rule it out. Additionally, a n/P1 (heterozygous) or P1/P1 (homozygous) result does not necessarily mean your horse will show symptoms. All draft horses should be fed the right diet and provided with adequate exercise.

Chronic Progressive Lymphedema (CPL) typically starts with symptoms in the lower limbs, including progressive soft tissue swelling, fibrosis (thickening or scarring of the tissue), and the development of skinfolds and nodules. Hyperkeratotic skin provides an ideal environment for mites, which can trigger a chain of events leading to the onset of CPL. According to Dr. Marieke Brys, CPL is 86% environmental and 14% genetic. Factors such as diet, activity level, living conditions, preventive mite care, and grooming play a significant role in determining whether a horse will develop CPL symptoms, how they progress, and their severity.

Mange is a parasitic infection caused by several species of tiny mites that can barely be seen by the naked eye. The most common form that occurs in horses in the United States is chorioptic mange, caused by the mite Chorioptes equi, which typically affects the lower legs of horses with feathering. Exterminate the infestation by applying Cydectin (currently not approved for use in horses) at marked intervals to cut off the lifecycle of the mites. For safety purposes, do not attempt this treatment without the guidance of a licensed veterinarian. Foals and yearlings should never be treated with Cydectin. Just like parasites becoming resistant to dewormers, there is a potential for mites to become tolerant to topical treatments. Administering oral ivermectin or moxidectin may be helpful in some cases. Treatments may need to be repeated three or four times at 12- to 14-day intervals. Clipping the legs will help the topical treatments reach the skin but may not be necessary in all cases, especially if the infection is still mild. Mites usually are passed directly from horse to horse, so do not allow your horse to have contact with others at shows or events and quarantine newcomers on your farm, especially if they have visible bald areas that appear to be itchy. Some horses can carry the mites without showing signs of infection and can be a source of recurrence after other horses are treated. If you have an outbreak, it’s a good idea to treat all horses who have been in contact with the ones affected and change out all of the stall bedding used by affected horses. After clipping leg feathers, apply a water based antiseptic cream (hydrogel) twice a day for for ten days to hydrate and protect the skin. This will also treat any nicks or cuts caused by the clippers. If the feathers are muddy, wash them using room temperature water (never hot or cold as this can impact lymph flow). Don't use rough brushes or scrubbers to break the mud loose as these may break the skin, cause more irritations and leave the skin more open to bacteria and infection. Use a non-drying, soothing shampoo with essential oils like E3 Tea Tree or Coat Defense Shampoo. If legs have open sores, use an antibacterial/anti-fungal shampoo like E3 or Chlorhexidine Scrub to clean the legs. These shampoos can dry the skin, which can be detrimental so use these products sparingly. When using these, shampoo the area once or twice daily for seven to 10 days, lather, leave on 10 minutes, rinse and pat dry well. Then decrease the frequency to two to three times weekly. If lesions ooze exudate, apply astringent solutions, such as lime sulfur or aluminum acetate. If skin is already very dry, use a cream wash to clean the legs. Using an emollient cream like Epaderm or Eucerin. Apply to the leg in the same way as you would a soapy lather, gently rinse and then pat dry using clean microfibre towels. The cream will help remove mud and particles but won't dry the skin like shampoos or antimicrobial soaps.

Yes, there are stallions available that ship semen. You can check our 'Stallion Directory' or contact breeders listed on our website to inquire about stallions offering shipped semen services. Availability and terms may vary depending on the breeder.