Researchers Evaluate Henderson Equine Castration Instrument

Mar 20, 2015

When it comes to equine surgical procedures, even the most "routine" hold the risk of complications. Take castrations, for instance: "Castration is one of the most common surgical procedures performed in equine practice," explained David G. Levine, DVM, Dipl. ACVS. But, he added, castration complications are one of the most common causes of malpractice claims.

Levine, a staff surgeon at New Bolton Center, the University of Pennsylvania School of Veterinary Medicine's large-animal hospital, in Kennett Square, explained that many veterinarians believe using a tool called the Henderson equine castrating instrument results in fewer castration complications. And at the 2014 American Association of Equine Practitioners Convention, held Dec. 6-10 in Salt Lake City, Utah, he presented the results of a study evaluating complication incidence associated with use of the this instrument.

Castration complications range from mild to life-threatening and can include pain, hemorrhage, edema (fluid swelling), and evisceration (protrusion of the intestines through the surgical site), among others.

Source: TheHorse

Video: Early Fall Colors | Scenic Ontario Road Trip!

All adventures must come to an end, but not without one more journey! Join The Wandering Shepherds as we say farewell to our cozy Calabogie cottage and take the scenic road trip home to Ewetopia Farms. Our first stop was a breathtaking hydroelectric generating station, framed by cliffs, rushing water, and brilliant fall leaves that seemed to have changed overnight. From there, we meandered along winding backroads through lakes and hills, soaking in the spectacular autumn scenery. This year, the colors seemed to arrive earlier than usual—perhaps due to the summer’s drought? Whatever the reason, it was an unforgettable display of Ontario’s fall beauty. Finally, our holiday drew to a close as we pulled back into Ewetopia Farms, ready to return to the sheep and our daily vlogs. But this trip reminded us how important it is to pause, explore, and appreciate the simple beauty around us.