Remember that while snow might cushion hard ground, it can also hide dangerous icy patches. | Photo: iStockHorses and humans alike enjoy cooler riding weather in the fall, but it does remind us that winter is fast approaching. Here in the Northeast, short days, significant snowfall, and icy footing can make it a challenge to keep horses in consistent work. For those who are not planning to head south when the snow flies, here are some tips to keep your horses safe and healthy when riding them this winter.Cold, inclement weather and poor footing in paddocks can make horses less likely to move around in turnout, leading to stiff muscles. It can also mean more time spent in stalls. A thorough warmup is important to minimize the risk of sustaining musculoskeletal injuries during exercise. This is especially important for older horses, those with prior soft tissue injuries or arthritis, and horses that are not being worked consistently during the winter. Thicker hair coats mean horses are more likely to be sweaty after a heavy workout. It is very important to ensure that horses are cool and dry before blanketing and/or turning them out. If you plan to ride consistently, it might be worth clipping your horse to prevent excessive sweating. Make sure to blanket appropriately based on the type of clip performed. If you do body-clip your horse, you might want to use a quarter sheet during cold weather warmup and cool-down.Footing can provide a real challenge for both turnout and riding during the winter. If you will be riding outside, footing can become quite hard in cold weather and can bruise feet, especially if your horse is barefoot and you are cantering or jumping. Snow might cushion the footing, but it can also hide dangerous icy patches. Indoor arenas are convenient for winter riding; however, some synthetic footings freeze in low temperatures and can become very hard and slick. Make sure to inspect your riding surface carefully prior to working your horse. If in doubt, stick to slower speeds.Free Download: What You Need to Know About BlanketingHorses with shoes in snowy climates typically benefit from snow pads to prevent ice chunks from building up in their feet. In some situations farriers apply small corks (also called caulks or studs) to shoes for traction. It can be tempting to pull shoes on horses that arent in regular work over the winter. However, keep in mind that even the frozen, choppy footing in the paddock can cause foot bruises, particularly in horses with poor-quality or sensitive feet. Discuss winter shoeing strategies with your farrier in the fall. If your horse wears a blanket, remove it regularly to give him a brief once-over. This will allow you to detect changes in body condition and check for blanket rubs. Older horses expend more calories to stay warm and might need extra feed. Adding blanket layers to thin horses can help them put on weight in some situations. Regardless of what your horse wears, provide him access to clean, frost-free water at all timesespecially right after exercise. There have been few scientific studies looking at the effects of exercise in extreme cold weather on horses. Therefore, it is difficult to give specific recommendations about how cold is too cold to ride. Consider each horses fitness level, available riding facilities, and any pre-existing health conditions when setting winter training schedules. Cold air has been shown to damage the respiratory tracts of horses exercising heavily under experimental conditions. It is more likely that a horse with underlying inflammatory airway disease will be affected by cold weather.In summary, make sure to provide an appropriate warmup and cool-down when riding. Pay close attention to turnout and arena footing, as well as your horses shoeing needs. Managing these details carefully will help your horse get through the winter injury-free.

A man who injured a horse after hitting it with his car and then failed to stop was convicted in court yesterday (Monday 2 December).Rob McGregor, who is 77 and lives in Hambleton near Selby in North Yorkshire, struck the hind leg of the horse as he attempted to overtake it in his Kia car.Mr McGregor failed to stop after the incident and continued to drive home. He was followed from the scene of the collision in Hambleton to his address and the incident was reported to the police.The horse suffered leg injuries and had to be seen by a vet while the rider sustained whiplash.Guilty pleaMr McGregor was prosecuted and sentenced for driving without due care and attention, and for failing to stop after a collision.He pleaded guilty at York Magistrates Court and received eight penalty points on his licence and ordered to pay more than 2,200 in fines, court costs and victim surcharges after the victim incurred more than 470 of veterinary bills.Following the conviction, North Yorkshire Police reminded motorists of the need to slow down and give plenty of room when passing horses, cyclists and other vulnerable road users.A few seconds loss of concentration is all it takes to cause injuries that last a lifetime and even fatalities, said PC Sam Potts on the North Yorkshire Police Selby area Facebook page.Motorists need to remember the ten and two rule when passing horses allow two metres and limit your speed to 10mph.North Yorkshire is a rural county which is popular with horse riders, cyclists and has a lot of wildlife and livestock that can wander into the path of traffic, so its always important to expect the unexpected.Further readingMulti-agency team ensures safety of horses stranded in flooded fieldWilliam Fox-Pitt champions Badmintons new Charity of the YearFire crew pull escaped mare from icy Derbyshire canalThe post Male driver who didnt stop after hitting horse on the road is convicted in court appeared first on Your Horse.

Section Key Points Understanding the Horse's Movement 1-2-1-2 rhythmic pattern of trot Moment of suspension Key Techniques for the Rising Trot Positioning and Balance: Stand with hips forward, stable lower leg Hinging Motion: Controlled hip hinging, avoid heavy landings Hand Position: Maintain steady hands, use soft elbows Rhythm and Timing: "Up-up-down" rhythm Common Mistakes to Avoid Overusing Stirrups Hollow Back Heavy Landing Perspectives Across Generations Traditional vs. Modern Techniques: Forward incline vs. upright posture Practice balance at a standstill, then progress Tips for Beginners Start with basics, practice at a standstill Choose sensible horses Relax and adapt to horse's motion Conclusion Patience and practice are crucial Positioning, rhythm, and avoiding errors enhance skills Find a suitable technique and practice consistently Mastering the Rising Trot: Exploring Techniques and Perspectives Across GenerationsMastering the rising trot is a significant milestone for many equestrians, whether they're novices or seasoned riders. This skill, often referred to as posting, is crucial for maintaining balance, comfort, and effective communication with the horse. In this article, we will explore various techniques, common mistakes to avoid, and different perspectives on the rising trot, ensuring that readers from all generations find valuable insights to enhance their riding.Understanding the Horse's MovementTo master the rising trot, one must first comprehend the horse's leg movements during this gait. The trot involves the simultaneous movement of the horse's near fore and off hind legs, followed by the off fore and near hind legs, creating a rhythmic 1-2-1-2-1-2 pattern. During each trot, there is a moment of suspension when none of the horse's hooves touch the ground, propelling the rider upward and initiating the rise.Key Techniques for the Rising TrotPositioning and BalanceThe rider's position is crucial when performing the rising trot. Start by standing up in your stirrups with your hips slightly forward of your knees, and keep your lower leg stable from the knee down. This position ensures the motion originates from the hips rather than the lower legs, reducing instability and discomfort for both rider and horse.Hinging MotionThe rising trot involves a controlled hinging motion at the hips. Instead of merely moving up and down, the rider should move their hips slightly forward and back down, maintaining a gentle, controlled motion. This technique keeps the lower leg still and prevents the rider from landing heavily in the saddle, preserving the horse's back.Hand PositionMaintaining steady hands relative to the horse's mouth is vital. A soft elbow helps maintain hand stillness by allowing the elbow angle to adjust slightly with each rise and descent, preventing hand movements that could disrupt the horse's comfort and balance.Rhythm and TimingSynchronizing with the horses rhythm involves standing in your stirrups for two beats and sitting back down for one beat. This "up-up-down" exercise allows riders to feel and align with the horse's rhythm, ensuring balance and stability.Common Mistakes to AvoidOverusing StirrupsRiders often press too hard on the stirrups, standing up too high, leading to tired legs and imbalanced form. Instead, focus on letting the horse's natural motion assist your rise and move forward.Hollow BackA hollow back can strain the horse, making the ride uncomfortable for both horse and rider. Ensure your upper body leans slightly forward, ready to receive the horse's forward motion comfortably.Heavy LandingAvoid clunky, heavy landings in the saddle by controlling the descent with gentle contact before rising again, maintaining a seamless, soft, balanced motion.Perspectives Across GenerationsTraditional vs. Modern TechniquesOlder and younger riders differ noticeably in their rising trot techniques. Older riders like Marigold4 on the Horse and Hound Forum prefer a slight forward incline of the upper body, with seatbones oriented backward to receive the motion, effectively minimizing the impact on the horse's back.Conversely, younger riders often maintain a more upright posture or slightly recline backward. Although effective, this method requires more strength and can lead to heavier landings, posing challenges and discomfort for both rider and horse.Practical ExercisesRegardless of technique preference, practicing balance and technique at a standstill or walk is beneficial. Standing in stirrups while standing still for ten seconds at a time, then progressing to walking and trotting, helps reinforce the correct position and rhythm.Tips for BeginnersStart with BasicsFor beginners, practicing at a standstill and then progressing to a walk is essential for building balance and muscle memory before advancing to a trot. Ensure heels are down, aligning the ball of the foot with the stirrup for improved stability.Use Sensible HorsesBegin with sensible, tolerant horses to reduce injury risk. Avoid attempting the rising trot on more energetic or unpredictable horses until you have more experience and confidence.Relax and Go with the FlowRelaxation is key to mastering the rising trot. Tension increases bounce and reduces effectiveness. Gradually adapt to the horse's movement, keeping in mind the importance of patience and practice in mastering this skill.ConclusionMastering the rising trot requires patience, practice, and a solid understanding of both the horse's movement and the rider's technique. By focusing on positioning, rhythm, and avoiding common errors, riders of all ages can improve their skills and riding experience.Whether you're an experienced rider or a novice, it's crucial to find a technique that suits both you and your horse and practice consistently. Relaxation, stable hand positioning, and synchronizing with the horses motion are key. Thistle Ridge Stables, Chapman Valley Horse Riding, and discussions on the Horse and Hound Forum offer further detailed guidance and exercises.By integrating these techniques and perspectives, you will be well on your way to mastering the rising trot, ensuring more harmonious and effective rides.Visit our collections for more essential riding gear and supplements to enhance your equestrian journey.

02 December 2024 Show Jumping’s reigning world champion Henrik von Eckermann of Sweden, who has held the World No. 1 spot for an impressive 28 months, leads an extraordinary lineup of entries for the CSI5*-W Show Jumping at the 2024 edition of London International Horse Show. Von Eckermann will face thrilling competition, including from Germany's Olympic champion Christian Kukuk and...

Five donkeys were present at the Cheshire Military Museum earlier this month to celebrate the arrival of the Purple Poppies Tour, a special exhibition which commemorates the role animals and birds have played in war.Donkeys Colin, Diccon, William, Nell and Missy were representing the northern region of the Donkey Breed Society, who were originally gifted the crocheted poppies by a group of makers from Richmond in Yorkshire.The poppies were subsequently combined with some additional artefacts to create an exhibition which has toured museums in northern England over the last few months. While at the Cheshire Military Museum, they will be housed in the Animals at War temporary exhibition.We are very pleased to bring this interesting work to Cheshire. These animals must be remembered, said Allison Roberts, chair of the Donkey Breed Societys northern region.They experienced much horror and yet their contributions have assisted in giving us the democracy we enjoy today. We are very grateful to all the museums that have welcomed the tour in 2024.Penultimate stopThe tour began at the York Army Museum before moving to the Cumbrian Museum of Military Life in Carlisle and is now making its penultimate stop at the Cheshire Military Museum. In January 2025, the tour will take up residency at the Green Howards Museum in Richmond for six months.Alongside the donkeys, there were also childrens activities and re-enactment performances and Sarah Booth, secretary of the northern region of the Donkey Breed Society, gave a short speech.During her speech, Sarah read a letter from Nigel Allsopp from the Australian War Animal Memorial Organisation who wished the exhibition, the greatest success.Often overshadowed by the horse, it is important to remember that donkeys and mules were the great unsung heroes of military campaigns, they were the logistical backbone of armies throughout the centuries [and] recently employed by coalition special forces in Afghanistan in mountainous terrain, said Nigel in his letter.The Cheshire Military Museum in Chester is dedicated to Cheshire military personnel from the 17thcentury through to the present day.The museum also houses the archive of the Cheshire Regiment.Related contentNew enrichment paddock for some of The Donkey Sanctuarys smallest residentsThe Donkey Sanctuary rolls out vaccination programmes to prevent rabiesProtest outside Amazon HQ calls for sale of donkey skin products to be bannedThe post Donkeys welcome Purple Poppies tour to Chester appeared first on Your Horse.

In this roundtable discussion led by Dr. Julia Miller, three experts cover common types of wounds seen in horses, complications with wound healing, and the most effective treatment options.Register NowThis webcast begins on Monday, December 16, 2024 at 8:00 p.m. EST Days Hours MinutesAbout the Experts: Julia Miller, DVMJulia Miller, DVM is an upstate New York native and a Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine graduate. She completed a large animal rotating internship at the University of Georgia and then worked as a mixed small and large animal general practitioner for several years before returning to Cornell to complete her dermatology residency. After completing her residency, Miller stayed on at Cornell as an assistant clinical professor in dermatology before she moved into private practice in beautiful Louisville, Kentucky. Miller has a special interest in the management of chronic otitis externa, and all things related to equine skin disease.Lauren Schnabel, DVM, PhD, Dipl. ACVS, ACVSMRLauren Schnabel, DVM, PhD, Dipl. ACVS, ACVSMR, is a professor of equine orthopedic surgery at North Carolina State University, in Raleigh. Her specific clinical and research interests are in the use of regenerative therapies for the treatment of musculoskeletal injuries and in the rehabilitation of elite athletes. Schnabel has performed and published studies on wound healing in the horse and continues to evaluate new therapies for wound healing in her clinical practice.Lisa Fortier, DVM, PhD, Dipl. ACVSLisa Fortier, DVM, PhD, Dipl. ACVS is the James Law Professor of Surgery at Cornell Universitys College of Veterinary Medicine, in Ithaca, New York, where, over the past 30 years, she has garnered an international reputation for her significant contributions in the areas of equine joint disease, cartilage biology, and regenerative medicine, particularly her pioneering use of biologics such as platelet rich plasma, bone marrow concentrate and stem cells in horses and humans.Kyla Ortved, DVM, PhD, Dipl. ACVS, ACVSMRKyla Ortved, DVM, PhD, Dipl. ACVS, ACVSMR, is an associate professor of large animal surgery and Jacques Jenny Endowed Chair of Orthopedic Surgery at the University of Pennsylvanias New Bolton Center, in Kennett Square. Her clinical focus is on equine orthopedic surgery while her research efforts focus understanding the pathophysiology of joint disease and developing regenerative therapies for the treatment of musculoskeletal injuries in the horse.

Look for equine dental care resources all month on TheHorse.com. | iStockAre your horses teeth getting enough attention? If your veterinarian isnt examining them at least once a year, the answer is probably not.A horses mouth is constantly changing as her teeth erupt and wear. Without proper maintenance, untreated oral abnormalities can lead to pain, resistance in the bridle, problems chewing and digesting feed, and more.To help educate owners about their horses oral health, The Horse has partnered with Zoetis to promote horse oral health through our Equine Dental Awareness Month. Look for dental-related horse health content all month long on TheHorse.com, ourFacebook pageandTwitter feed, and in our e-newsletters.

On November 23, a 7-year-old mare in Northumberland County, Ontario, tested positive for equine influenza. The horse was bought from a sale and developed clinical signs five days later, including a cough and nasal discharge. Other horses on the property have developed mild coughs.The facility manager is working with their veterinarian to implement animal movement restrictions and biosecurity protocols.EDCC Health Watch is an Equine Network marketing program that utilizes information from the Equine Disease Communication Center (EDCC) to create and disseminate verified equine disease reports. TheEDCCis an independent nonprofit organization that is supported by industry donations in order to provide open access to infectious disease information.About Equine InfluenzaEquine influenzais a highly contagious respiratory disease that infects horses, ponies, and other equids, such as donkeys, mules, and zebras. The virus that causes it is spread via saliva and respiratory secretions from infected horses. Horses are commonly exposed via horse-to-horse contact; aerosol transmission from coughing and sneezing; and contact with humans contaminated hands, shoes, or clothes or contaminated tack, buckets, or other equipment.Clinical signs of equine influenza infection can include a high fever (up to 106F); a dry, hacking cough; depression; weakness; anorexia; serous (watery) nasal discharge; and slightly enlarged lymph nodes. Consider monitoring your horses health at shows by taking his temperature daily, which can help you pick up on signs of infection early and take appropriate measures to reduce disease spread.Vaccinationis an important and inexpensive way to protect your horse. US Equestrian requires proof that horses have had an equine influenza vaccination within the six months prior to attending organization-sanctioned competitions or events. Your veterinarian can help you determine what other vaccines your horse might benefit from.In addition to vaccinating, following strictbiosecurity protocolscan help reduce your horses chance of infection and disease. Such measures include quarantining new equine arrivals at barns, disinfecting buckets and equipment, and preventing nose-to-nose contact between horses.Click hereto read common questions and answers about equine influenza.

On November 25, a 22-year-old mare in MRC Haut-Saint-Franois, Quebec, tested positive for equine influenza after developing clinical signs on November 8. The mare is now recovering, and 20 additional cases are suspected.EDCC Health Watch is an Equine Network marketing program that utilizes information from the Equine Disease Communication Center (EDCC) to create and disseminate verified equine disease reports. TheEDCCis an independent nonprofit organization that is supported by industry donations in order to provide open access to infectious disease information.About Equine InfluenzaEquine influenzais a highly contagious respiratory disease that infects horses, ponies, and other equids, such as donkeys, mules, and zebras. The virus that causes it is spread via saliva and respiratory secretions from infected horses. Horses are commonly exposed via horse-to-horse contact; aerosol transmission from coughing and sneezing; and contact with humans contaminated hands, shoes, or clothes or contaminated tack, buckets, or other equipment.Clinical signs of equine influenza infection can include a high fever (up to 106F); a dry, hacking cough; depression; weakness; anorexia; serous (watery) nasal discharge; and slightly enlarged lymph nodes. Consider monitoring your horses health at shows by taking his temperature daily, which can help you pick up on signs of infection early and take appropriate measures to reduce disease spread.Vaccinationis an important and inexpensive way to protect your horse. US Equestrian requires proof that horses have had an equine influenza vaccination within the six months prior to attending organization-sanctioned competitions or events. Your veterinarian can help you determine what other vaccines your horse might benefit from.In addition to vaccinating, following strictbiosecurity protocolscan help reduce your horses chance of infection and disease. Such measures include quarantining new equine arrivals at barns, disinfecting buckets and equipment, and preventing nose-to-nose contact between horses.Click hereto read common questions and answers about equine influenza.

Thirty horses in Texas recently tested positive for equine infectious anemia (EIA). The cases are spread across eight counties.The positive cases include nine horses in El Paso County, one horse in Wise County, five horses in Collin County, one horse in Bexar County, two horses in Harris County, one horse in Gonzales County, one horse in Bastrop County, and 10 horses in Dallas County.All affected horses are either isolated or have been euthanized.EDCC Health Watch is an Equine Network marketing program that utilizes information from the Equine Disease Communication Center (EDCC) to create and disseminate verified equine disease reports. TheEDCCis an independent nonprofit organization that is supported by industry donations in order to provide open access to infectious disease information.About EIAEquine infectious anemiais a viral disease that attacks horses immune systems. The virus is transmitted through the exchange of body fluids from an infected to an uninfected animal, often by blood-feeding insects such as horseflies. It can also be transmitted through the use of blood-contaminated instruments or needles.ACoggins test screens horses blood for antibodiesthat are indicative of the presence of the EIA virus. Most U.S. states require horses to have proof of a negative Coggins test to travel across state lines.Once an animal is infected with EIA, it is infected for life and can be a reservoir for the spread of disease. Not all horses show signs of disease,but those that do can exhibit:Progressive body condition loss;Muscle weakness;Poor stamina;Fever;Depression; andAnemia.EIA has no vaccine and no cure. A horse diagnosed with the disease dies, is euthanized, or must be placed under extremely strict quarantine conditions (at least 200 yards away from unaffected equids) for the rest of his life.