Research Shows Horses More Susceptible To COVID-19 Than Other Species

New research shows that horses seem to be at greater risk of contracting COVID-19 than other species. Researchers believe their close relationship with humans may be to blame for a greater susceptibility.

Vanderbilt University utilized experts in virology, genetics, structural biology, chemistry, physiology, medicine, immunology and pharmacology worked together to create a tool that would predict animal susceptibility to COVID-19 infection. The scientists determined that horses and camels were most at risk and suggested that they be closely monitored and tested for infection.

The researchers identified five amino acid sites that indicate virus susceptibility or resistance; they then created an algorithm to predict susceptibility. Jacquelyn Brown, a staff scientist at the Vanderbilt Institute for Integrative Biosystems Research and Education, is an equestrian who initiated the project, noting that horses have a large respiratory system, and many are regularly have their mouths and nostrils touched by humans.

The research team is hopeful that their findings will help protect pets, food sources, wildlife and people. The algorithm the team created can be modified to predict susceptibility to other viruses; there is also hope that the research will be used to help develop drugs to inhibit virus transmission.

Drs. Matthew Alexander, Clara Schoeder, Jacquelyn Brown, Charles Smart, Chris Moth, John Wikswo, John Capra, Jens Meiler, Wenbiao Chen and Meena Madhur determined that there as an intermediate risk for COVID-19 susceptibility in cows, sheep and goats; the most susceptible animal is the rhesus macaque.

Read the full study here.

Read more at HorseTalk.

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New Product Helps Performance Horses Recover Rapidly

Buckeye Nutrition, part of Mars Horsecare US, Inc., launches Ultimate Recovery, an extruded recovery supplement for performance horses. Targeted to support faster muscle and tissue recovery, this new top-dress is formulated for horses in all intensities of work.

Focusing on branched-chain amino acids, this supplement guarantees concentrations of isoleucine, valine, leucine and glutamine to support optimum muscle repair. In addition, live probiotics support a balanced hindgut under stress from training, competition and travel, while electrolytes aid in rehydration and encourage thirst.

“Our research shows that there is a need for a supplement specifically focused on recovery,” said Nettie Liburt, PhD, PAS, Senior Equine Nutrition Manager, Mars Horsecare US, Inc. “Knowing the recovery needs of performance horses and also the manufacturing capabilities of our mill, we were able to create a supplement that helps restore muscle and tissue after exercise.”

Fed at a minimum recommended feeding rate of 1.0 lb per day for a 1,100-lb horse, one 30-lb bag of Ultimate Recovery will last approximately 30 days. In addition to the branched-chain amino acids, live probiotics and electrolytes, this supplement also contains the antioxidant vitamins E and C to support muscle health and recovery, biotin to support healthy hoof structure, omega-3 fatty acids to promote an anti-inflammatory diet and added calcium to support bone and muscle recovery.

“Ultimate Recovery has already proven itself in our feeding trials,” Dr. Liburt said. “The results we're hearing and seeing are incredible. We're so excited to bring this product to market.”

Buckeye Nutrition, a 100 percent equine-focused company, with products made from 100 percent pure, traceable ingredients from a 100 percent med-free mill, is proud to introduce Ultimate Recovery, available in stores starting mid-July. To find your local Buckeye Nutrition dealer or online retailer, please click here.

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