Help Advance Neonatal Foal Care – Share Your Experience with the Madigan Squeeze Technique

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 Have you used the Madigan Squeeze Technique on neonatal foals? Dr. Monica Aleman and Dr John Madigan of UC Davis are inviting veterinarians, breeders, farm managers, and horse owners to share their experiences as part of a vital study aimed at improving outcomes for foals with Neonatal Maladjustment Syndrome (“dummy foal”).

Neonatal Maladjustment Syndrome (NMS) is a condition seen in newborn foals that affects their behaviour and awareness. Foals with NMS may not recognise or bond with their mother, may not suckle normally, and can seem disoriented. More seriously affected foals may develop seizures. NMS was once thought to be caused by lack of oxygen during birth, but recent research suggests it may also be linked to high levels of calming hormones (neurosteroids) that usually decrease after birth but sometimes remain too high.

 

The Madigan Squeeze Technique, developed by Dr. Madigan, involves applying steady pressure using soft ropes wrapped in 3–4 loops around the foal’s chest and rib cage for approximately 20 minutes. This mimics the natural birth process and is believed to reduce neurosteroid levels that keep foals in a subdued, sleep-like state in utero. The foal typically lies down and enters a calm, trance-like state, then awakens more alert—often with improved responsiveness.

 

Drs. Aleman and Madigan are collecting real-world data on the technique’s effectiveness and application. Whether you’ve experienced remarkable recoveries, faced challenges, or simply observed how the technique worked, your insights are essential.

 

“Your experiences - whether as a veterinarian, breeder, farm manager, or horse owner - are invaluable in helping us assess how widely the technique is used and how effective it has been,” they note.

 

By contributing, you'll help shape a forthcoming report on neonatal foal care that will be shared with the broader equine community - advancing research and potentially improving foal survival rates worldwide.

 

 

Take the survey here:

 

 https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/M3J2P32 

Electroacupuncture offers hope for horses with headshaking syndrome, study finds

(c) Dunkel et al 2025 CC BY 4.0

A recent study from the Royal Veterinary College (RVC) has indicated that electroacupuncture
could assist horses suffering from trigeminal-mediated headshaking (TMHS), with nearly two-thirds of treated horses showing improvement.

TMHS is a neurological disorder that causes horses to involuntarily shake or flick their heads. The condition is linked to the trigeminal nerve, which may become overly sensitive and react strongly to normal stimuli such as sunlight, wind, or touch. Affected horses may exhibit signs such as repetitive headshaking, snorting, or rubbing their noses.

TMHS is painful and potentially dangerous, often making riding difficult. In severe cases, it may lead to euthanasia if quality of life cannot be maintained. The exact cause remains unknown, and there is currently no cure.

Electroacupuncture (EA) is a treatment combining traditional acupuncture with electrical stimulation. Fine needles are inserted at specific points, and a mild current is passed through them. This is thought to influence nerve activity and pain perception, which can be beneficial in conditions involving nerve dysfunction like TMHS.

Unlike more invasive nerve therapies such as PENS (percutaneous electrical nerve stimulation), EA can be performed in a regular stable environment and does not usually require sedation or specialist equipment.

The research was led by Professor Bettina Dunkel, Head of RVC Equine, with final-year veterinary student Georgia Hildon and four external collaborators. It is the largest study to date examining the effectiveness of electroacupuncture for TMHS.

In this retrospective study, information was gathered from veterinary records and follow-up with owners of cases treated between 2015 and 2024. Data was available from a total of 179 electroacupuncture treatments on 42 horses.

Information collected included the horse’s medical history and TMHS severity, the number of treatments given and the changes in severity of headshaking before and after treatment (graded 0–3).

Analysis of the data showed that EA was well tolerated by all horses, with no significant complications reported. The researchers found:

·      64% of horses improved after their final treatment.

·      33% had complete resolution of headshaking signs.

·      31% showed no change, and 4.8% worsened after treatment.

·      Average headshaking severity dropped from grade 3 (severe) to grade 1 (mild).

This study supports electroacupuncture as a safe option for managing TMHS -   especially for horses that do not respond to traditional treatments.

While it doesn’t work for every horse, the results are promising, given how challenging TMHS is to treat.

The researchers suggested that refining the treatment protocol—such as adjusting the duration or frequency of EA—could lead to even better results. They emphasise that it is also important to rule out other possible causes of headshaking (e.g., dental problems, allergies) before starting EA.

Professor Dunkel said: “Electroacupuncture is a viable treatment option for horses suffering from this devastating disease. We are very pleased with the results of the study and hope that it will encourage veterinarians and horse owners to pursue this treatment option.”

For more details, see:

Dunkel, B., Hildon, G.L., Coumbe, K. M., Busuttil, E., von Schweinitz, D. & Devereux, S. (2025) Electroacupuncture as a treatment for suspected trigeminal nerve-mediated head-shaking in 42 horses. 

Equine Veterinary Education, 00, 1–7. 

https://doi.org/10.1111/eve.14135

Laryngeal tie-forward surgery for treatment of intermittent dorsal displacement of the soft palate in horses

Laryngeal tie-forward (LTF) surgery has been shown to be an effective treatment for intermittent dorsal
displacement of the soft palate (iDDSP) in horses in a recent study 

iDDSP is a dynamic upper respiratory tract disorder that occurs during exercise, particularly in racehorses and performance horses. It involves the soft palate displacing dorsally above the epiglottis, which can lead to partial obstruction of the airway. This displacement often results in a characteristic gurgling noise, exercise intolerance, and poor performance. 

The condition is intermittent and may only occur during intense work, which complicates diagnosis. The best way to confirm the diagnosis is using overground endoscopy (OGE), observing the horse’s upper airway during exercise under natural conditions

Another condition frequently observed in association with iDDSP is Palatal instability (PI). It is characterised by abnormal movement or fluttering of the soft palate during exercise, which may precede or predispose to full dorsal displacement. The presence of PI is often considered a potential risk factor for the development of iDDSP.

A retrospective case series conducted by Tim Barnett and colleagues investigated the efficacy of LTF surgery by analysing OGE findings and subsequent racing performance in horses diagnosed with iDDSP. The study focused on horses that had been definitively diagnosed with iDDSP, had undergone LTF surgery, and had at least one postoperative OGE evaluation. A full report of the work is published in the journal Veterinary Surgery.

Analysis of the records showed that seventy five percent of horses that had undergone LTF had no evidence of iDDSP on postoperative OGE. There was also a 23% reduction in the presence of palatal instability on OGE after LTF. 

In 16 horses, soft palate thermocautery (SPTC) was performed at the same time as LTF. However, this additional intervention did not reduce the incidence of iDDSP beyond what was achieved with LTF alone, indicating no added benefit. 

There was a 22% increase in the number of horses that raced and an 18% increase in those achieving placings following LTF surgery, indicating a positive impact on athletic performance.

 

The authors also found that horses that continued to have suspected upper airway impairment after the tie forward operation were likely to have continued iDDSP. 

They conclude that laryngeal tie-forward surgery is a reliable and effective treatment for iDDSP in horses. While soft palate thermocautery is often employed with the aim of enhancing soft palate stability, this study suggests it does not improve outcomes when used in conjunction with LTF. Furthermore, ongoing respiratory noise or performance issues post-surgery should prompt repeat OGE, as they may indicate persistent or recurrent iDDSP.

 

For more details, see:

 

Barnett, Timothy P., Colgate, Victoria A., Robinson, Natalie, Smith, Lewis C. R., Palmer, Lorraine, Barakzai, Safia Z.

Overground endoscopic examination following laryngeal tie-forward in horses with dorsal displacement of the soft palate

Veterinary Surgery (2025)

https://doi.org/10.1111/vsu.14245

University of Minnesota Study Investigates Genetic Influence on PPID Treatment Response in Horses

A research team at the University of Minnesota is investigating the role genetics may play in how
horses respond to treatment for pituitary pars intermedia dysfunction (PPID), commonly known as equine Cushing’s disease. This condition, which affects up to 30% of older horses, can have serious consequences ranging from diminished performance to death.

 

PPID develops when neurons in the hypothalamus become damaged, resulting in the loss of control over the pituitary gland’s pars intermedia. While there is currently no cure, treatment focuses on slowing disease progression and managing clinical signs. The gold-standard medication for PPID is pergolide, a dopamine receptor agonist originally used to treat Parkinson’s disease in humans. Pergolide helps compensate for dopamine loss in hypothalamic neurons and is the most widely prescribed drug for PPID.

 

However, horses vary significantly in their response to pergolide. Treatment success rates are reported to range from 60–80%, but comparisons across studies are difficult due to differing definitions of “success.” Additionally, adverse effects are relatively common, with some studies reporting anorexia in up to 32% of treated horses. Other side effects may include colic, weight loss, and behavioural changes. These reactions often lead owners or veterinarians to reduce or discontinue treatment - causing symptoms to return or worsen and allowing the disease to progress.

 

It is well established in human medicine that genetic differences can influence how individuals respond to medications. Now, the same principle is being explored in horses.

 

The study, led by Dr. Molly McCue and Dr. Lauren Hughes from the UMN Equine Genetics and Genomics Laboratory, in collaboration with Dr. Dianne McFarlane from the University of Florida, aims to uncover genetic factors that affect pergolide response and adverse event susceptibility in horses with PPID.

 

“Our goal is to identify genetic variants that influence treatment outcomes,” explain the researchers. “If we find specific alleles that predict poor response or higher risk of side effects, this could lead to more personalised treatment—such as adjusted dosing strategies to improve safety and effectiveness.”

 

“As a veterinarian, I understand just how devastating PPID can be for horses and the owners that love them,” said Dr. Hughes in a UMN College of Veterinary Medicine news release. “I’m very excited about the potential of this research to improve how we diagnose, treat, and manage this important disease.”

 

The research team is actively seeking suitable horses to enrol in the study. They are looking for horses that meet the following criteria:

• Over the age of 15 at time of PPID diagnosis
• Diagnosis made by veterinarian and diagnosis included bloodwork
• Horse has/had clinical signs consistent with PPID (long shaggy haircoat, muscle atrophy, changes in mentation, or recurrent infections)
• Horse has been on pergolide therapy for a minimum of 6 months and has had recheck blood values (including ACTH, TRH stim, or dexamethasone suppression blood work)

 

If your horse meets the criteria, you are encouraged to participate. Your involvement is essential - this research would not be possible without the support of dedicated horse owners and their animals.

 

For more details, see:

 

https://vetmed.umn.edu/equine/research/equine-genetics-and-genomics-laboratory/projects/equine-pituitary-pars-intermedia-dysfunction-ppid/pergolide-study/pergolide-study-participation-requirements

 

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kZl2WvUBt1w

Watch National Equine Forum 2024 Sessions Online for Free

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This year’s National Equine Forum (NEF) tackled some of the most important topics shaping the
future of the equestrian world. Whether you're a professional, amateur, or horse owner, there's something for everyone.

All sessions are now available to watch online for free.

Highlights from the 2024 NEF Programme:

Equine Grass Sickness. Professor Bruce McGorum (Royal (Dick) School of Veterinary Studies) shared exciting new research suggesting that a neurotoxin produced by pasture microbes—with similarities to snake venom—may be the cause of equine grass sickness (EGS).

This discovery opens the door to better diagnostics and potential treatments. Ongoing research includes the development of an EGS biobank and a weather app to help predict risk.

Atypical Myopathy – The Risk from Sycamores Professor Richard Piercy (Royal Veterinary College) explained that atypical myopathy is caused by the toxin Hypoglycin A, found in sycamore seeds, seedlings, and leaves.
The risk varies each year and even between trees. Toxin levels are highest in seedlings, and the toxin remains active even in hay or after mowing. Prevention tips include:

• Avoid grazing near sycamore trees
• Use hay racks
• Bring horses in at night

Other Key Topics Included:

Equine Nutrition: Safe feeding practices, the essential role of forage, and where to find trustworthy nutrition advice.

Equine-Assisted Services: The many ways horses support human wellbeing, both in and out of the saddle.

“Being able to communicate current knowledge on equine health and welfare and our human relationship with horses with so many people was an absolute privilege,” said NEF Chair Tim Brigstocke. “It is with grateful thanks to our generous sponsors, friends and live streaming supporters that we have been able achieve record numbers of delegates this year. Sharing and debating across the sector in a non-partisan way is at the heart of the NEF and this year’s event has demonstrated how unified we are, for the good of the horse.”

 

Sessions from NEF25 have been posted on NEF’s YouTube channel<https://www.youtube.com/c/nationalequineforum>; 

Cloning Offers New Hope for Genetic Diversity in Przewalski’s Horses

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A recent report highlights how cloning from cryopreserved cells can help increase genetic diversity in Przewalski’s
horses—an endangered species whose entire population today descends from a very limited number of wild ancestors.

The Przewalski’s horse (Equus przewalskii), once extinct in the wild, was saved through being bred in captivity and later reintroduced into its native habitats. This recovery program has been highly successful - with approximately 3,000 individuals alive today. However, it is important to recognise that all these horses trace back to just 12 wild-caught animals, captured between 1898 and 1947. As a result, the current global population is genetically narrow, with only five founder lineages represented in today's horses.

To address this genetic bottleneck, scientists are exploring advanced reproductive technologies, including cloning from cryopreserved cells. This approach could either restore lost genetic variation or amplify the presence of underrepresented lineages in the population. Such efforts rely on biological materials preserved in biobanks specifically for conservation purposes.

Since the 1970s, the San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance’s Frozen Zoo® - a major component of their Biodiversity Bank - has stored cells and tissues from 575 Przewalski’s horses spanning many generations. Among these samples was one from a stallion known as Studbook Number 615, or "Kuporovitch," who lived from 1975 to 1998. Despite his valuable genetics, Kuporovitch was underrepresented in the breeding program, making him an ideal candidate for cloning.

In a study published in the journal Animals, Ben Novak and colleagues reported the successful birth of two healthy clones of Kuporovitch. These clones were created using cross-species somatic cell nuclear transfer - a method in which the nucleus of a preserved Przewalski’s horse cell is inserted into an enucleated domestic horse ovum (egg), which is then implanted into a domestic horse surrogate mother. The first clone was born in 2020, followed by a second in 2023.

Both clones were genetically verified using standard pedigree genotyping, and one clone’s identity was further confirmed through whole-genome sequencing. 

The research team point out that this is the first time multiple clones of an endangered species have survived the perinatal period, marking a significant achievement in conservation science.

They add that, although only two clones were produced, both attempts at cloning were successful, demonstrating the reproducibility and reliability of cloning for genetic rescue purposes for the endangered Przewalski’s horse. 

This breakthrough makes the Przewalski’s horse only the fifth endangered species to be successfully cloned, and one of the first where cloning has been used as an active tool for conservation management. It opens the door to more strategic use of biobanked genetic material in future recovery efforts - not just to prevent extinction, but to enrich and diversify the genetic makeup of rebounding populations.

 

For more details , see: 

 

Novak, Ben J., Oliver A. Ryder, Marlys L. Houck, Kelcey Walker, Lexie Russell, Blake Russell, Shawn Walker, Sanaz Sadeghieh Arenivas, Lauren Aston, Gregg Veneklasen, and et al. 2025. 

Endangered Przewalski’s Horse, Equus przewalskii, Cloned from Historically Cryopreserved Cells 

Animals (2025) 15, no. 5: 613.

https://doi.org/10.3390/ani15050613