Rainbow Equine Hospital

17/04/2026

Introducing Richard Coppack MRCVS, who will be joining our out of hours team from this weekend as part of a new collaboration with Equicall. Richard has worked with horses in Yorkshire for many years, will bring a huge wealth of experience to any emergencies which our clients may encounter overnight and on a weekend whilst the office is closed. Please give him a warm welcome if you need to meet him!

15/04/2026

Springtime Risks: Toxic Plants That Can Harm Horses

Spring brings lush pastures and vibrant growth, but hidden among this greenery are plants that can be harmful or even fatal if eaten by horses. Many of these species are common across the UK and some remain toxic even when dried in hay.

While some of these plants may be naturally unappealing and rarely eaten when pasture is plentiful, they can become a hazard if horses are hungry or if contaminated plant material ends up in hay or pasture mixes.

13/04/2026

As the weather warms up and plants start to bloom, some horses can develop seasonal allergies. It’s a good idea to keep an eye out for common signs such as:
• Watery or irritated eyes
• Coughing
• Nasal discharge
• Increased sneezing

While mild symptoms can be common at this time of year, these signs shouldn’t be ignored. Early advice and treatment can help keep your horse comfortable throughout the season.

If you notice any of these symptoms, our team is here to help and advise.

09/04/2026

Equine Influenza

As we move into the competition season, your horse will come into contact with many others, increasing the risk of infection and illness. We would like to provide you with some key facts about equine influenza to help you stay informed and keep your horse healthy.

What is Equine Influenza?
Equine influenza (or equine flu) is a highly contagious viral respiratory disease that
spreads quickly between horses. While it’s rarely fatal, it can seriously affect your horse’s health, comfort and performance and outbreaks still happen every year in the UK.

Spot the Signs Early
Know the warning signs of equine flu:
• High temperature (often over 38.5°C/101.3°F)
• Persistent cough
• Nasal discharge
• Lethargy
• Reduced appetite

Equine flu spreads fast through:
• Coughing and sneezing
• Nose to nose contact
• Shared buckets and grooming kits
• Clothing, hands and equipment
• Poorly ventilated stables

Small Hygiene Steps, Big Impact-Simple actions make a huge difference:
• Clean and disinfect equipment
• Don’t share buckets or tack
• Wash hands between horses
• Change clothing if handling sick horses

Vaccinating Still Matters
Vaccinating is the single most effective tool we have to reduce the severity and spread of equine influenza.
Even vaccinated horses can be affected, but symptoms are usually milder and outbreaks are easier to control. Biosecurity isn’t overkill — it’s essential.
Many disciplines have strict flu vaccination rules and it’s always the owner’s responsibility to stay compliant. Check your dates before events to avoid disappointment (or worse, risk).

If You Suspect Equine Flu — Stop and Isolate.

Please do not hesitate to contact us with any questions on 01653 695743 or office@rainbowequinehospital.co.uk

07/04/2026

Did you know dental issues can lead to pain, weight loss, behavioural problems and poor performance in horses? Many dental conditions develop gradually and can be easy to miss.

A routine dental examination can help:
✔️Keep your horse comfortable and pain free
✔️Support healthy weight and condition
✔️Improve performance and behaviour
✔️Prevent more serious problems developing

Spring is a great time to get ahead and make sure your horse is ready for the season ahead.

📞📆Book a dental check-up with our skilled veterinary team today.

04/04/2026

We may be in need of a foster mare.. within the next 24 hours.. please bear us in mind. Sick mummy at the moment with 24hr old baby.

01/04/2026

01/04/2026

🐣Our team at Rainbow Equine Hospital wishes you all a happy Easter! 🐣

📆Easter Opening Hours:
Good Friday: Emergencies only
Easter Saturday: Normal hours 8.30am - 12.30pm
Easter Sunday: Emergencies only
Easter Monday: Emergencies only

Emergency? Don’t worry, we’re on call 24/7 throughout the holiday to care for your horse, pony or donkey.

📞Call us anytime if your horse needs urgent attention.

Enjoy the long weekend and remember a healthy horse is a happy horse!

24/03/2026

**Top Tips for Giving Your Horse Oral Medications**

We know… oral meds aren’t always your horse’s favourite part of the day. A few simple tweaks can make things much easier (and less messy!).

📞Having trouble giving oral meds?
Give us a call on 01653 695743. We can suggest other techniques or alternatives to make treatment easier for you and your horse.

20/03/2026

While it’s tempting to let your horse enjoy every bite, rapid weight gain can lead to laminitis and other health issues.

Top tips for keeping your horse happy and healthy this spring:
1. Limit grazing– short, controlled turn out on grass can prevent overindulgence.
2. Use a grazing muzzle if needed– lets them enjoy the pasture safely.
3. Monitor body condition– keep an eye on weight and fat deposits.
4. Regular exercise– keeps metabolism steady and supports hoof health.

If you are struggling to balance the forage needs of your horse, in the spring, or have any feeding concerns then contact us. We’re here to help every step of the way.

19/03/2026

Huge congratulations to our amazing nurses Izzy and Kiera on qualifying as REVNs today! 🎉👏

Your dedication, compassion, and hard work have truly paid off, and this is such a well-deserved achievement. You should be incredibly proud of everything you’ve accomplished.

Wishing you both every success in this next chapter—you’re going to make such a difference! 💙