Director's Message - Fall 2023
Welcome to the fall issue of the Horse Report, focused on caring for older horses!
When I was a 2nd year veterinary student, I purchased my now 24-years young horse, Kaiden, off the track. For 21 years, he has been my eventing partner and friend, traveling with me from Minnesota to UC Davis, back to Minnesota, and back again to UC Davis as I have navigated my career.
With the help of our amazing coach, Yves Sauvignon, we were able to compete in 20 events at the Preliminary level. At the age of 19, I brought him back down to Training level. Since he has no interest in retirement, he is now half-leased by a junior and competing at the Beginner Novice and Novice levels. It is amazing to watch him “show her the ropes”.
Our shared journey and the lessons that this horse has taught me are beyond compare. Kaiden has survived two colic surgeries, two street nail procedures, and various injuries over the years. Keeping him healthy and sound, with the help of my husband Dr. Scott Katzman, is one of my proudest accomplishments.
At CEH, we have a large population of older horses that are among the most beloved horses in our program. Many have been CEH residents for years, and have taught hundreds of students and residents.
As always, we rely on the expertise of our colleagues to bring you the latest information. We are grateful to Dr. Nicola Pusterla for sharing his expertise in equine dentistry. A special thank you to former CEH undergraduate student Liat Bachar for writing about this topic. Thanks also to CEH Director Emeritus Dr. Claudia Sonder for a thoughtful discussion of how to make end-of-life plans for our beloved equines.
We hope the information in this issue helps you navigate the equine aging process and enjoy many happy, healthy years with your horses.
Best wishes,
Thank You to Our Contributors
Dr. Nicola Pusterla - A diplomate of the American College of Veterinary Internal Medicine and the American Veterinary Dental College, Dr. Pusterla is a professor in the School of Veterinary Medicine’s Department of Medicine and Epidemiology. He is the chief of the Equine Dentistry and Oral Surgery Service at the UC Davis veterinary hospital.
Dr. Claudia Sonder - Dr. Sonder is a Director Emeritus of CEH. She is an owner of Napa Valley Equine, an equine clinic that offers in-hospital and mobile services throughout Napa County and surrounding areas.
Liat Bachar - Liat worked at CEH as an undergraduate student. After receiving her degree in Animal Science, she has been working at veterinary clinics and is applying to veterinary schools.