Meadow Hill Farm LLC

09/03/2026

Another great day of horse showing!

Hickstead is one of the most famous showjumping venues in the world, home to multiple top-class shows

09/01/2026

On June 3, 2026, the USDA confirmed that New World Screwworm (NWS), a foreign parasitic pest, had entered the United States with a confirmed case in Texas.

Screwworm infestation is caused by fly larvae (maggots) that feed on living tissue of animals and humans. The female flies lay the eggs in a wound. The eggs hatch in roughly 24 hours, and the larvae feed on live tissue for roughly seven days until they drop to the ground, pupate, and become flies.

Screwworm infestations can be aggressive and, if left untreated, can kill an animal. Screwworm flies do not discriminate hosts based on species. This outbreak is particularly concerning because it can impact any animal or human.

You may be familiar with flies that primarily impact horses’ GI tracts, such as bot flies, or other types of flesh-eating flies that impact cattle. The screwworm is different because it is not species-specific and will eat live tissue.

Luckily, there are a few things you can do to limit its spread and keep your horses safe:

09/01/2026

It’s heartbreaking to watch a rider leave the ring after the best performance of their life in tears, Dr. Stefanie Mazer, PSY.D writes. To the casual observer, the reaction may appear disproportionate. The horse was well prepared, and the course was ridden with confidence and technical skill. Yet the rider sees only the ribbon, or the absence of one. In that moment in the rider’s mind, the placing becomes a verdict on talent, dedication, potential, and self-worth.

Parents, trainers, and fellow competitors often respond with reassuring words: “It’s only one horse show.” “Don’t let one ribbon define you.” While these sentiments are well-intentioned, they may overlook a more important question:

What if the emotional response is not simply the product of individual psychology, but of the reward system the individual has learned to navigate?

Sport has always served as more than recreation or entertainment. Every athletic culture teaches its participants what excellence looks like. In doing so, it also teaches them what deserves admiration, what is worthy of pursuit, and ultimately, what gives a person value within that community. The measures a culture consistently celebrates gradually become the values its members internalize.

This principle extends well beyond athletics. Schools communicate what intelligence looks like through grades. Workplaces shape priorities through promotions and incentives. Families communicate values through praise and attention. Riding is no different. Ribbons, championships, rankings, year-end awards, and public recognition all communicate, whether intentionally or not, what the community believes success should look like.

📎 Continue reading this article at https://www.theplaidhorse.com/2026/08/31/when-the-system-sets-you-up-to-feel-like-a-failure/
📸 © The Plaid Horse

09/01/2026

We have recently seen an increased number of cases of Habronemiasis (summer sores) in our area. Early intervention is pivotal for quick resolution!

Understanding & Preventing Summer Sores in Horses

Summer sores (Habronemiasis) are a common and frustrating skin condition in horses during the warm weather months. They occur when house or stable flies deposit larvae from stomach worms (Habronema) into existing skin wounds, moist areas, or around eyes and lips, causing an intense allergic reaction and non-healing granulating wounds.

Key Symptoms:
• Non-healing, raised red skin lesions
• "Rice-like" small granules within the sore
• Intense itching, pain,or irritation

Prevention & Management Tips:
1. Fly Control: Implement strict fly management—use fly sheets, masks, boots, and repellent sprays.
2. Wound Care: Promptly clean and cover open cuts or abrasions to prevent flies from accessing them.
3. Manure Management: Frequently clean stalls and pastures to reduce fly breeding grounds.
4. Regular Deworming: Consult with us on an appropriate deworming schedule.

If you suspect your horse has a summer sore, give Prairie Mountain Vet a call! Early diagnosis and treatment are essential for a full and speedy recovery.

09/01/2026

From mosquitoes to ticks to screwworm, new forces are reshaping equine health this summer.

09/01/2026

Forty years ago(‼️), Dr. Anderson began his journey at Woodside Equine Clinic as an associate, eventually taking over the practice from Dr. Milton Kingsbury in 1989.
With a focus on Sports Medicine and Lameness, he became one of the first veterinarians in the United States to earn certification in equine acupuncture from the International Veterinary Acupuncture Society (IVAS). Additionally, he holds certification in veterinary chiropractic medicine from the American Veterinary Chiropractic Association (AVCA). Dr. Anderson continues to excel in assessing horses for discomfort, diagnosing and addressing underlying issues, and developing strategies to achieve peak performance.

08/29/2026

08/26/2026

When preparing to ship your horse, don’t forget to protect his digestive health. Click the link in the comment section to learn how.