RAPHAEL WICKER VIA UNSPLASH A pair of horses are pictured while grazing.

UNIVERSITY PARK — For those working with or caring for horses, Penn State Extension is offering two webinars, “Load Sharing of the Equine Foot and Hoof Casting,” from noon to 1 p.m. on April 8, and “Understanding Equine Herpesvirus,” from 7-8 p.m. on April 16.

“Load Sharing of the Equine Foot and Hoof Casting” is designed for equine owners, farriers and veterinarians looking to support load sharing in the equine foot, explore hoof anatomy and weaknesses and discover practical strategies, including frog pads, pour-in products and casting.

This session will examine how structural weaknesses such as caudal failure, thin soles and weak quarters affect soundness and performance and how targeted support strategies can help manage these challenges.

Participants will gain a clear, functional understanding of caudal structures and the importance of proper load distribution, explore practical support options, including frog support pads, impression materials and pour-in products and learn when and why each approach may be appropriate. The program will conclude with an overview of hoof casting as a tool for stabilization, protection and rehabilitation.

The second webinar, “Understanding Equine Herpesvirus,” is designed for horse owners, barn and boarding facility managers, trainers and riding instructors, equine enthusiasts and anyone responsible for herd health or stable biosecurity.

This webinar provides horse owners with clear, science-based information about this common and sometimes serious disease. Michael Odian, DVM, will explain what EHV is, how it spreads and the clinical signs to watch for, along with current recommendations for prevention and management.

The Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture’s Regulations and Compliance Chief also will review the state’s reporting requirements, quarantine procedures and compliance expectations during suspected or confirmed cases. Participants can learn key facts about EHV, how EHV is diagnosed and managed, vaccination considerations, current prevention recommendations and more.

Both webinars are offered at no cost.

For the “Load Sharing of the Equine Foot and Hoof Casting” webinar, participants must register by 12 p.m. April 8 to receive the link to access the live. Participants of the “Understanding Equine Herpesvirus” webinar must register by 7 p.m. April 16 to receive their link. Registrants also will receive access to the webinar recordings.

More information is available on the Penn State Extension website at extension.psu.edu/load-sharing-of-the-equine-foot-and-hoof-casting and extension.psu.edu/understanding-equine-herpesvirus.