Nigropallidal encephalomalacia was diagnosed in two horses in northern Victoria that had a history of long‐term pasture access to a dense growth of Rhaponticum repens. The region in which the affected horses lived had received well above average rainfall for several months preceding the poisoning. Affected horses had sudden onset of subcutaneous oedema of the head, impaired prehension and mastication, dullness, lethargy and repeated chewing‐like jaw movements. Diagnosis was confirmed at necropsy, with characteristic malacic lesions in the substantia nigra and globus pallidus of the brain. This is the first documented case of nigropallidal encephalomalacia in Australian horses associated with R. repens.

Background: Managing the demands of actively competing sport horses can be challenging for veterinarians. Finding the right balance between short‐term athletic goals and long‐term health and wellbeing of the horse can at times be difficult. Understanding your client's goals, aspirations and the athletic expectations of their equine partner is essential for successful management of the sport horse. This, coupled with knowledge of the chosen equestrian sport and familiarity with the rules and regulations, will greatly improve any veterinarian's ability to manage actively competing sport horses.Aim of the article: This article aims to assist veterinarians treating sport horses by highlighting some of the important equestrian rules and regulations. It also discusses some approaches to creating a successful veterinary‐client relationship.

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Hydrallantois is a rare condition of the mare, where an excessive amount of fluid accumulates in the allantoic compartment. Normal volumes of allantoic fluid vary between 8 and 18 litres, with more than 25 litres being considered abnormal (Arthur 1969). Hydrallantois develops in the last trimester of gestation, usually in multiparous mares between the ages of 5 and 21, and is understood to occur due to placental pathology (Blanchard and others 1987). Clinical signs include acute abdominal distension, dyspnoea, inappetence, stiff gait and colic (Frazer 2010, Brinsko 2011, Govaere and others 2012). There appears to be no breed predilection (Blachard and others 1987, Govaere and others 2012). Drainage of the allantoic fluid and induction of parturition is the standard treatment, as continued abdominal enlargement increases the likelihood of prepubic tendon and uterine rupture (Brinsko 2011). Prognosis for foals is poor, as most are born dead or extremely weak, and despite intensive care, usually do not survive, or are euthanased (Frazer 2010, Govaere and others 2012). Prognosis for mares is good, provided appropriate supportive fluid therapy …