Kimberly D Snyder, DVM, PA

12/25/2025

11/22/2025

In light of the current EHV-1 outbreak, the AAEP and the Equine Disease Communication Center (EDCC) have organized a horse owner education webinar to bring you the most up to date information on this issue.

Next Tuesday, join specialists Lewis R. “Bud” Dinges (Texas Animal Health Commission Executive Director and Texas State Veterinarian), Dr. Krista Estell (AAEP/EDCC) and Dr. Katie Flynn (USEF) for an informative discussion about what EHV-1 is, how to recognize it, and most importantly, how to prevent its spread.

This webinar is FREE, but registration is required. Register here: https://events.zoom.us/ev/AnIoJrASj0vuX7Q_K87mKEjg5bxeMAkqp7fpSoOgVtVm_Zgo1g5m~AiiV7ZQ3bbmlEW2iSkeRTSAfMCYf2QhFMoprr7WRbM_MsiJRcBGT1oLj0Q

*PLEASE NOTE: the attendee limit for this session is capped at 1,000. However, all who register will be emailed a link to an on-demand recording that will become available 24 hours after the live session ends.

11/20/2025

The Equine Disease Communication Center is monitoring an outbreak of EHM that originated at the Women’s Professional Rodeo Association (WPRA) World Finals and Elite Barrel Race event Nov 5-9. To date, officially confirmed cases have been reported in the following states-

11/20/2025

𝐔𝐏𝐃𝐀𝐓𝐄: NRHA continues to monitor the confirmed EHV cases in Texas and Oklahoma. There are no cases at OKC Fair Park, and the Oklahoma State Veterinarian has confirmed the NRHA Futurity® may proceed as scheduled.

NRHA and OKC Fair Park have implemented enhanced bio-security measures that go above state recommendations, including full sanitization of all barns, arenas, round pens, manure areas, and common spaces. NRHA’s elevated protocols include prepared isolation areas, immediate evaluation/testing of any symptomatic horse, separation of direct-contact horses, required protective equipment for handlers, and continuous coordination with the State Veterinarian.

Exhibitors can help by monitoring temperatures twice daily, disinfecting stalls/equipment, limiting horse-to-horse contact, and seeking veterinary care immediately for any horse showing fever or respiratory/neurological signs. Gate checks will be in place—please have current health certificates ready.

The health and welfare of every horse remains our top priority.

𝐑𝐞𝐚𝐝 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐟𝐮𝐥𝐥 𝐮𝐩𝐝𝐚𝐭𝐞 𝐡𝐞𝐫𝐞: https://nrhafuturity.com/nrha-futurity-bio-security-update/

NRHA Monitoring EHV Cases; No Increased Risk to 2025 NRHA Futurity®

11/20/2025

Two positive cases of Equine Herpesvirus Myeloencephalopathy have caused the cancellation of the remainder of the Barrel Futurities of America (BFA) World Championship. The event was scheduled to run Nov. 17-22 at Lazy E Arena in Guthrie, OK.

Read the Equine Disease Communication Center (EDCC)'s latest update here: https://equinediseasecc.org/news/article/Barrel-Futurities-of-America-Suspends-Oklahoma-Event-Due-to-EHM-Positives

11/20/2025

What is Equine Herpesvirus (EHV)?

You've probably heard it called Rhinopneumonitis, a respiratory tract disease that results in "snotty noses," but EHV is more than that. Depending on the strain, this virus can also cause abortion in broodmares, and equine herpesvirus myeloencephalopathy (EHM) — the often-deadly neurologic form of the disease.

Because EHV is endemic in many equine populations, most mature horses have developed some immunity through repeated natural infection. However, they remain a source of infection for other susceptible horses, like weaned foals and yearlings, who usually display symptoms of the respiratory form of the disease in autumn and winter. Performance and show horses are also more vulnerable to the disease, as they commingle with unfamiliar equines in close quarters while under stress from travel and competition.

Proper biosecurity protocols can help reduce EHV outbreaks and other disease transmission. A variety of vaccines are also available for protection against both the respiratory and abortive form of the disease, but there is no equine licensed vaccine at this time that has a label claim for protection against the neurologic form (EHM).

Consult your primary equine veterinarian to learn more about this disease and work with them to determine the optimal vaccine protocol for your horses.

You can learn more about all three forms on the Equine Disease Communication Center's website here: https://equinediseasecc.org/infectious-diseases

05/20/2025

For the first time ever, three U.S. athletes sit atop the Fédération Equestre Internationale world ranking list for their respective disciplines. Reaching the milestone is an achievement for any rider, with Boyd Martin, Kent Farrington and Fiona Howard each taking their own individual road to Worl...

04/01/2025

**Breaking News: Zebras Now Eligible to Compete in All FEI Disciplines!**

In a groundbreaking move towards inclusivity, the Fédération Équestre Internationale (FEI) has announced a major rule change that will allow zebras to compete alongside horses in all FEI disciplines.

A spokeswoman for the FEI, Avril Mirth, stated, "In today’s inclusive society, it is vital that no animal capable of being ridden should feel excluded. Zebras have long been overlooked in equestrian sport, and we are excited to welcome them into the competitive arena."

However, the FEI acknowledges that there are anatomical differences between zebras and traditional sport horses. Special considerations will be made, particularly regarding tack and judging criteria.

**New Bridles and Bits for Zebras**

Due to the unique conformation of the zebra’s head, neck, and mouth, new rules will be implemented to accommodate their distinct physiology. Although zebras will compete in the same classes as horses, judges will be trained to accept a slightly shorter, higher, and less round frame. The standard dressage outline, for example, may look different on a zebra, but that will not be penalised under the new regulations.

One of the most significant adaptations will be in the design of bridles and bits. Renowned bit and bridle expert, Charlotte Warman has taken on the challenge of developing specialised tack to ensure the comfort and welfare of zebras in competition.

**A More Sensitive Mouth**

"The mouth of a zebra is incredibly sensitive due to... well, let’s just say centuries of not being selectively bred for riding!" Warman explained. "This means they require a much lighter contact than horses. Riders will need to develop a softer feel and refine their aids to accommodate the zebra’s unique needs."

Warman is currently testing prototype bridles that feature extra-padded nosebands and ergonomic bit designs tailored to the zebra’s delicate oral structures. "We’re also looking into bitless options," she added, "as many zebras seem to prefer a more natural approach."

**Challenges and Opportunities**

While this historic rule change has been met with enthusiasm, there are logistical challenges. Unlike horses, zebras have a reputation for being independent thinkers with a penchant for unpredictability. However, supporters argue that with the right training and handling, zebras could become serious contenders in international competition.

"Imagine watching a beautifully striped dressage test or a zebra clearing a showjumping course with ease!" Mirth exclaimed. "The possibilities are endless."

As of April 2025, riders interested in competing with zebras can begin the registration process. Stay tuned for further updates as this exciting new chapter in equestrian sport unfolds!

01/11/2025

01/03/2025

App Link 👇
https://weffei.horseshowinfo.com/dl/6471c6