Please see below the message sent out by the Irish Thoroughbred Breeders Association about the danger posed to horses and ponies by the leaves of the Sycamore Tree at this time of year – there was also a similar warning in the Irish Field.
“There has been a significant increase in the number of Atypical Myoglobinrea cases in recent days. This disease is associated with damage to the soft tissue especially, the muscles. Fallen leaves especially those from the Sycamore are involved in causation. The ITBA is hosting an educational evening on this condition on 9th December. Breeders are advised to monitor their horses for signs of stiffness. Blood samples can be sent to the Clinical Pathology service of the Equine Centre for checks for any evidence of soft tissue/muscle damage and the results can be made available very swiftly after receipt.”
