Equine & Livestock Product & Promotions Guide

8 Covetrus | 855.724.3461 | northamerica.covetrus.com Risk Assessment Performance horse owners and trainers are often concerned about joint health, with good cause. Studies have shown that the frequency and type of injuries observed in performance horses varies by both type and level of competition, but the risk of orthopedic disease is certainly heightened. For example, a 2021 study of 235 performance horses found that 77% of horses sustained an orthopedic injury during the 11-year study period. 1 Unfortunately, even backyard pasture pets are at risk of joint disease as they age. Over 50% of horses 15 years of age or older have evidence of osteoarthritis, and the prevalence increasing to 80-90% in horses over 30 years old. 2 While a relaxed pet may be at lower risk of osteoarthritis than a performance horse, all owners should be made aware of orthopedic disease risks. This involves educating your clients about preventive care for joint health, while also instructing them on how to monitor for signs of joint disease. Preventive Measures Your clients can take several steps to reduce the risk of osteoarthritis, beginning at an early age. While these steps are essential and commonplace for performance horses, they are no less valuable for companion horses. • Weight management: Obesity predisposes horses to joint disease, and it is currently estimated that approximately 50% of horses are overweight or obese. 3 Weight management plays an essential role in optimizing joint health. Take the time to discuss body condition and weight management with equine clients at every veterinary exam. • Lifestyle factors: Consistent exercise and regular hoof trimming can promote musculoskeletal health and decrease a horse's risk of joint disease.3 Discuss exercise and hoof health with every horse owner, at every veterinary visit. • Nutraceuticals and supplements: Approximately 84% of horse owners give supplements to their horses. 4 While many of these supplements contain similar ingredients, including glucosamine, chondroitin, and methylsulfonylmethane (MSM), the quantities and bioavailability of these compounds can vary significantly. In fact, a 2006 study of 23 commercially-available supplements found that 17% of tested products contained less than 30% of the expected amount of glucosamine. 5 Ask your clients about supplements and recommend preferred products available through your Covetrus ® online pharmacy when appropriate. JOINT HEALTH is a hot topic among the owners of performance horses and senior horses. However, these are not the only horses that are at risk of joint disease. By considering the unique concerns and needs of each client and patient under your care, you can promote improved joint health across your entire patient population. Expand Your Practice's Equine Joint Health Program

• Cover