Separating a foal from its mother can be a stressful time for the mare and especially for her baby. But there are many ways to make the transition easier and reduce the risks for both.

Equestrian provincial and territorial sports organizations (PTSOs) play a significant role in developing and maintaining Canada’s horse industry. Across Canada, PTSOs promote equestrians’ right to ride on public lands and trails, liaise and collaborate with governments, advocate for horse welfare, share science-based equine education, administer national coaching programs, provide funding to members and other horse organizations, plus provide liability insurance.

Respiratory disease is one of the most important health concerns facing the horse industry, and accounts for one of the biggest reasons why horses miss training days (Rossdale et al., 1985). Recurrent Airway Obstruction (RAO), also known as “heaves,” is one of the more troublesome small airway diseases which causes an elevated respiratory rate, chronic coughing and runny nose, and affected horses often find it difficult to exhale.

Horses are masters at becoming injured, which is why many owners choose to purchase insurance. But working through an insurance claim while already dealing with an injured horse — or worse — can be highly stressful. So, I asked Mike King to provide some tips on making an insurance claim. He’s a partner at Acera Insurance (formerly CapriCMW) and the national lead for equine insurance and risk management programs, so he oversees claims across the country.