10 min read Last updated: January 2026 When a damp easterly rolls in and temps drop towards 7C, does your normally surefooted horse turn pottery? This guide shows how to prevent coldinduced laminitis with breathable thermal leg wraps, smart rugging, deep bedding and PPID/IR managementso you protect circulation and keep hooves comfortable through every cold snap. Quick Summary Short on time? Here are the key takeaways. Area: Spot Cold Triggers What To Do: Track forecasts and act when temps fall towards/below 7C. Check stride, tight turns and digital pulses each morning. Why It Matters: Early action can stop a mild circulatory issue becoming a painful flare. Common Mistake: Writing off morning footiness as simple stiffness. Area: Warm Limbs & Hooves What To Do: Keep legs warm with breathable thermal wraps in the stable; add lined hoof boots in cold snaps or flares. Avoid coldhosing. Why It Matters: Gentle warmth counters vasoconstriction and relieves pain. Common Mistake: Using icy water on sore winter feet. Area: Thermal Wraps Use What To Do: Choose breathable, moisturewicking quilted wraps; apply evenly and snugly from below knee/hock down. Reset daily and remove if wet or dirty. Why It Matters: Correct use supports circulation without skin problems. Common Mistake: Fitting too tight or leaving damp wraps on. Area: Overnight Wrap Care What To Do: Leave on overnight only in the stable and only on clean, dry legs. Check under wraps daily and let skin breathe during the morning reset. Why It Matters: Prevents rubs, maceration and heat buildup. Common Mistake: Continuous wear with no daily inspection. Area: Rugging at 7C What To Do: Rug older, PPID/IR or coldsensitive horses as temps approach 7C and below. Use breathable turnout/stable rugs and reassess twice daily. Why It Matters: A warm core reduces blood being diverted away from the feet. Common Mistake: Overrugging so the horse sweats and then chills. Area: Bedding & Hoof Boots What To Do: Stable on a deep, dry, insulating bed and add lined hoof boots for very cold nights or active flares. Provide draughtfree shelter outdoors. Why It Matters: Insulation underfoot reduces heat loss and hoof pain. Common Mistake: Leaving horses on thin beds or cold concrete. Area: Forage & Metabolism What To Do: Keep forage consistent with slow feeders; feed low sugar/starch. Test and manage PPID/IR with your vet and review pergolide/ACTH as needed. Why It Matters: Stable insulin and controlled PPID lower winter flare risk. Common Mistake: Allowing long gaps without forage. Area: Suspected Flare Action What To Do: Call your vet, stable on a deep bed, keep body and limbs warm, and organise farrier support. Avoid turnout until comfortable. Why It Matters: Prompt, coordinated care protects the hoof and speeds recovery. Common Mistake: Relying on NSAIDs alone for coldinduced pain. In This Guide What is winter laminitis? Who is at risk and when in the UK? Do leg wraps help and how should you use them? Are Thermatexstyle bandages safe to leave on overnight? Bedding, boots and shelter: protect the hoof from cold Rugs and body warmth: when should you rug? Feeding and metabolic management: reducing the risk What should you do if you suspect winter laminitis? A cold snap in February, a damp easterly wind, and suddenly your usually cheerful cob is pottery on the yard. This isnt typical laminitis from spring grass its winter or coldinduced laminitis, and it needs a different playbook. The right combination of warmth, leg management and metabolic control can quickly turn things around.Key takeaway: Coldinduced laminitis is a circulatory problem triggered by cold; keeping the limbs and hooves warm and managing PPID/insulin resistance are the most effective ways to prevent and relieve it rugs and breathable thermal leg wraps used correctly are core tools.What is winter laminitis?Winter laminitis is a circulatory problem where cold triggers vasoconstriction in the hoof, causing pain without the inflammation typical of dietrelated laminitis. Because the pain is circulatory rather than inflammatory, NSAIDs generally dont help.In cold weather, blood vessels in the distal limb constrict to conserve core temperature. In metabolically sensitive horses, this normal response can go too far, starving the hoof of warm blood and oxygen. Horses carry roughly 60% of their weight on the front feet, which is why front hooves are often the first to show signs of soreness on cold mornings or during sharp temperature drops.Endocrine factors magnify the problem. Elevated insulin raises endothelin1, a potent vasoconstrictor, while cortisol and insulin resistance change the hoofs vascular responses:Cortisol has been documented to dramatically increase hoof responses to vasoconstrictors. Insulin is normally a vasodilator with insulin resistance, this response may be blocked. Dr Kellon, metabolic specialist (source)Practical implication: think warmth and circulation first. Avoid coldhosing or standing in icy water it makes the vasoconstriction worse and prioritise targeted warming of the limbs and body.Who is at risk and when in the UK?Horses with PPID (Cushings) or insulin resistance are highest risk, especially during damp cold snaps and rapid temperature drops, with FebruaryMarch proving a common danger window in the UK.Our winters are rarely extreme, but wet cold combined with wind chill and repeated freezethaw cycles can be enough to trigger a flare. Watch closely when overnight lows drop towards and below about 7C (45F) thats the point many horses start spending extra energy to maintain core temperature, diverting warmth from the extremities. Signs to watch for include a short, pottery stride on hard ground, reluctance to turn tightly, and shifting weight off the front feet. Even mild foot soreness on cold mornings deserves quick action in atrisk horses.Pro tip: Plan ahead for PPID horses. Discuss autumn testing and a winter management plan with your RCVSregistered vet, so youre not reacting midcold snap.Do leg wraps help and how should you use them?Yes. Breathable thermal leg wraps keep the lower limb warm, support circulation and can markedly improve comfort during cold spells, provided theyre fitted correctly and checked daily.Thermal wraps modelled on Thermatex use quilted, moisturewicking fabric designed for stable use to warm and dry the limbs. In practice, this means you can keep tendons warm without trapping sweat, and protect the pastern and fetlock area from chilling draughts at floor level. The guiding principles:Choose breathable, moisturewicking wraps with thermal properties (e.g. quilted, doublelayer designs).Apply evenly and snugly never tight from below the knee/hock down, avoiding pressure points.Reset at least once daily to check for slippage, skin condition and heat buildup; remove any wrap that becomes wet or dirty immediately.Use in the stable; pair with suitable hoof protection in extreme cold.Quick tip: If your horse needs more than a wrap, consider lined or insulated hoof boots to keep the hoof capsule itself from chilling. For fitforpurpose options, explore our curated horse boots and bandages.Are Thermatexstyle bandages safe to leave on overnight?They can be left on overnight in the stable for suitable horses if theyre dry, wellfitted and checked at least daily, but follow your vets guidance for your horse.Manufacturers market quilted thermal bandages for stable protection and drying wet legs. UK yard chat often flags a valid caution: prolonged heat without breaks can soften tissues or irritate skin if moisture is trapped. The solution is management, not avoidance:Only apply to clean, fully dry legs; remove and reapply daily to let the skin breathe.Check under the wraps for any rubs, heat buildup or scurf; wash and thoroughly dry legs before rewrapping.Match limb warmth with body warmth a chilled body will still divert heat away from the feet.At Just Horse Riders, we recommend a simple winter routine for atrisk horses: warm, dry legs wrapped at tea time; overnight monitoring on a deep bed; morning removal, quick check and a gentle walk in the stable while legs air. If youre building a winter kit on a budget, have a look at our rotating deals in the Secret Tack Room clearance.Bedding, boots and shelter: protect the hoof from coldDeep, insulating bedding, lined hoof boots for severe cases and draftfree shelters all reduce cold stress and help relieve hoof pain in winter laminitis.Cold floors pull heat from the hoof. A deep, dry bed (shavings, cardboard or even sand) lets horses avoid standing directly on cold, conductive surfaces. Many will naturally dig their toes in, angling the feet to ease pressure on the back of the hoof capsule while creating a warmer pocket around the foot.For very cold nights or during a flare, lined hoof boots can add an extra layer of insulation around the capsule, complementing thermal wraps on the limb. Outside the stable, provide good shelter from damp winds a southwestfacing entrance works well on many UK yards and keep turnout time flexible around sharp weather changes.Rugs and body warmth: when should you rug?Below about 7C (45F), many horses especially older or PPID horses benefit from a rug to reduce energy expenditure and support peripheral circulation to the feet.Rugging isnt just about comfort; for circulationsensitive horses its strategic. When the core is kept warm, the body is less inclined to clamp down blood flow to the extremities. For turnout, choose weatherproof, breathable rugs with appropriate fill for the days conditions. For stabled horses, a breathable stable rug avoids drafts without overheating. Check and adjust daily as temperatures swing.Good places to start:Outdoor protection: see our selection of UKready winter turnout rugs, from lightweight shells for wet, mild days to warmer fills for frost.Indoor comfort: browse breathable stable rugs for deepbedded nights.Trusted brands our customers rate highly for fit and durability include WeatherBeeta and Shires.Quick tip: err on the side of just warm enough and reassess twice daily. Overrugging can lead to sweating, which chills rapidly and undermines your goal.Feeding and metabolic management: reducing the riskConsistent forage intake, lowsugar, lowstarch diets and proactive PPID/insulinresistance management lower winter laminitis risk and improve comfort.Long gaps without forage can destabilise insulin in susceptible horses. Keep hay going steadily, and if you need to slow intake, use tricklefeeding methods rather than periods of fasting. Ahead of winter, work with your vet to test for PPID (Cushings) and insulin dysregulation, start or adjust pergolide where indicated, and monitor ACTH to keep the plan on track.Supporting hoof and metabolic health is a wholehorse project. Alongside veterinary care, owners often use targeted nutrition to bolster hoof quality and metabolic resilience; explore vetapproved options in our horse supplements range, and integrate them under veterinary advice for PPID/IR cases.Pro tip: Make warmth + forage + movement your winter mantra gentle, instable movement after you remove wraps in the morning can help limbs warm evenly while forage keeps insulin steadier.What should you do if you suspect winter laminitis?Call your vet immediately, keep the horse warm, stable them on a deep bed and organise farrier support early, coordinated care gets the best results.The British Horse Society emphasises prompt, vetled plans and farrier collaboration for all laminitis presentations:Treatment focuses on relieving pain, reducing inflammation, supporting the hoof structure and managing any underlying conditions. Prompt treatment is vital whether in early stages or chronic a tailored, vetled treatment plan gives your horse the best chance of recovery and longterm comfort. British Horse SocietyYour vet may prescribe painkillers and recommend box rest with a deep bed of shavings. The farrier may need to trim hooves to relieve pressure and fit sole or frog supports. Your vet will work closely with your farrier for remedial farriery. British Horse SocietyFor coldinduced cases specifically, remember that NSAIDs often dont address the core issue because the pain is circulatory. Keep the whole horse warm (appropriate rugging) and protect limbs and feet (thermal wraps and, if advised, lined hoof boots). Avoid coldhosing or icy standing water. Daily checks during routine grooming feel for limb temperature, digital pulses and any change in stride help you react early.If your horse needs protective wear as part of the plan, youll find suitable wraps, bandages and boots in our horse boots and bandages collection, with options to suit stable and controlled turnout use as advised by your vet.Conclusion: your winter laminitis checklistKeep it simple and systematic: maintain core and limb warmth, feed consistent forage, and manage PPID/insulin proactively. Use breathable thermal wraps correctly in the stable, bed deeply, and adjust rugs when temperatures drop towards 7C and below. Coordinate early with your RCVSregistered vet and farrier. At Just Horse Riders, were here to help you choose the right kit from turnout rugs and stable rugs to circulationfriendly boots and bandages so your horse stays comfortable through every cold snap.FAQsAre Thermatexstyle leg wraps safe to leave on overnight?Yes, for suitable horses in the stable if wraps are breathable, applied to clean, dry legs, and checked at least once daily. Reset them every 24 hours, remove if damp or dirty, and follow your vets guidance especially for PPID/IR horses with delicate skin.Will NSAIDs help my Cushings horse with winter laminitis pain?Usually not. Winter laminitis pain is primarily circulatory rather than inflammatory, so warming the body and limbs is more effective. Still contact your vet promptly; they may use pain relief alongside a plan focused on warmth, deep bedding and hoof support.What temperature should I start using leg wraps or rugs?Use protective measures when temperatures fall towards and below about 7C (45F), particularly for older horses, PPID/IR cases, or those not acclimatised to cold. Combine thermal leg wraps in the stable with appropriate rugging see our turnout rugs for outdoors and stable rugs for inside.Is deep bedding really effective for winter laminitis?Yes. A deep bed insulates the hoof from cold floors and lets the horse adjust foot angle to reduce pressure on painful areas. Use clean, dry shavings, cardboard or sand and bank well to reduce draughts at floor level.Should I coldhose my horses feet if theyre sore in winter?No. Cold water and icy streams worsen vasoconstriction and can intensify pain in coldinduced laminitis. Focus on gentle warmth, insulation and veterinaryapproved hoof support instead.Which wraps or boots should I choose for coldsensitive feet?Pick breathable, moisturewicking thermal wraps for the stable, applied evenly and checked daily. In severe cold or active flares, add lined hoof boots for capsule insulation. Start with our vetted selection in horse boots and bandages and speak with your vet or farrier about fit and wear time.How can I prevent winter laminitis flares in a PPID/insulinresistant horse?Test and treat PPID (pergolide as prescribed), keep forage consistent, feed a lowsugar, lowstarch diet, rug appropriately around 7C and below, and use thermal leg wraps during cold snaps. Consider targeted nutritional support from our supplements range under your vets advice, and monitor closely during FebruaryMarch cold spells. Shop the Essentials Everything mentioned in this guide, ready to browse. Shop Boots & BandagesShop Turnout RugsShop Stable RugsShop Supplements

On April 20, a 5-year-old Quarter Horse gelding in Santa Clara County, California, tested positive for equine infectious anemia (EIA). Epidemiological tracing is ongoing, but transmission is suspected to be iatrogenic (mechanical transfer via contaminated needles, surgical instruments, blood products, or multi-dose vials).The gelding has been quarantined. There are no additional exposed horses on the property.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.

One horse at a private facility in Grant County, Washington, has tested positive for strangles. The horse is under veterinary care.Before this horse tested positive for strangles, another horse was purchased from a livestock market and brought to the farm. Four additional horses have been exposed to the disease.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 StranglesStranglesin horses is an infection caused byStreptococcus equisubspeciesequiand spread through direct contact with other equids or contaminated surfaces. Horses that arent showing clinical signs can harbor and spread the bacteria, and recovered horses remain contagious for at least six weeks, with the potential to cause outbreaks long-term.Infected horses can exhibit a variety of clinical signs:FeverSwollen and/or abscessed lymph nodesNasal dischargeCoughing or wheezingMuscle swellingDifficulty swallowingVeterinarians diagnose horses using polymerase chain reaction (PCR) testing with either a nasal swab, wash, or an abscess sample, and they treat most cases based on clinical signs, implementing antibiotics for severe cases. Overuse of antibiotics can prevent an infected horse from developing immunity. Most horses make a full recovery in three to four weeks.A vaccine is available but not always effective. Biosecurity measures of quarantining new horses at a facility and maintaining high standards of hygiene and disinfecting surfaces can helplower the risk of outbreakorcontain one when it occurs.

9 min read Last updated: January 2026 Has your rocksteady horse turned spooky after UK spring turnout? Heres how to calm behaviour fast: sameday steps to limit lush grass, add plain salt and shortterm magnesium, plus the key EGS red flags (often fatal within 48 hours) to rule out emergenciesso you ride safer and get focus back quickly. Quick Summary Short on time? Here are the key takeaways. Area: Recognise Grass Effects What To Do: Watch for sudden spookiness, footiness, headflicking, twitching and tight muscles after turnout; palpate neck and quarters daily. Why It Matters: Early recognition lets you act before behaviour escalates or safety is compromised. Common Mistake: Blaming training or tack and ignoring pasture changes. Area: Emergency Triage What To Do: If severe colic, little/no gut sounds, drooling or green nasal fluid appear, remove from grass and call your vet immediately; consider ulcers with recurrent mild colic and girthiness. Why It Matters: Acute EGS can be rapidly fatal, so swift action is critical. Common Mistake: Waiting overnight to see if it settles. Area: Limit Lush Grazing What To Do: Shorten turnout on fastgrowth days, bring in at midday, prefeed plain grass hay, and use tracks or stripgrazing to control bite size. Why It Matters: Cutting grass intake lowers potassium and overeating that drive reactivity. Common Mistake: Allowing unrestricted access to rich swards. Area: Add Daily Salt What To Do: Feed plain salt daily and ensure adlib fresh water; keep a salt lick available. Why It Matters: Spring pasture is sodiumpoor; salt supports normal nerve and muscle function. Common Mistake: Relying on a mineral lick to meet all sodium needs. Area: Support Magnesium What To Do: Add a shortterm magnesium supplement from a reputable brand; reassess as the grass matures and behaviour settles. Why It Matters: Helps correct low magnesium linked to highpotassium pasture. Common Mistake: Stacking multiple calmers instead of targeted magnesium support. Area: Check Urine pH What To Do: Test with strips; aim pH 7.07.5. If higher, cut lush grass, increase hay, and retest within a few days. Why It Matters: Elevated pH often tracks high potassium intake. Common Mistake: Testing once and not adjusting turnout or forage. Area: Forage Choices What To Do: Avoid lucerne/alfalfa while the horse is sharp on grass; base the diet on plain grass hay. Why It Matters: Alfalfa can exacerbate excitability in grassaffected horses. Common Mistake: Adding alfalfa to boost calories when reactivity is the issue. Area: Ride Safely What To Do: Swap intense schooling for calm hacks, keep sessions short, add inhand stretches, and wear a currentstandard helmet with protective boots for fresh days. Why It Matters: Maintains safety and relaxation while dietary fixes take effect. Common Mistake: Pushing normal work when the horse is tense and reactive. In This Guide What spring grass does to behaviour Grass effects vs serious disease Signs your horse is grass-affected this UK spring Practical steps to calm behaviour on lush pasture How much grass is too much? When to call the vet immediately Your rock-steady horse turning sharp, spooky or tense after turnout is a classic UK spring problem and the grass is often to blame. The good news: once you know whats happening in the pasture, you can act quickly and calm things down.Key takeaway: Fast-growing UK spring grass is high in potassium and low in sodium, which can lower magnesium (hypomagnesemia) and flip behaviour from calm to reactive; rule out emergencies like equine grass sickness (EGS), then manage grass intake, add salt, and support with magnesium.What spring grass does to behaviourYoung, fast-growing UK spring grass is high in potassium and low in sodium, which can drive hypomagnesemia and turn calm horses spooky, tense and overreactive. This is the same physiological pathway behind grass tetany seen in ruminants and can affect horses during lush growth or after dry spells followed by rain.Equine nutritionists consistently flag this pattern: when grass is lush, normally quiet horses can become anxious, hyper-reactive and on the muscle. As FeedXL experts put it:During times of the year when pasture is young, lush, very green and growing quickly... normally quiet, calm horses can become spooky, behave erratically... this becomes clear that another underlying problem exists.The mechanism is twofold. First, high potassium interferes with magnesium balance; second, spring grass often provides too little sodium. Together they can lead to nervousness, twitching, footiness, head-flicking and muscle tightness the classic grass-affected picture described by Calm Healthy Horses and FeedXL. UK agronomy specialists also warn that dry springs can concentrate potassium and trigger the same signs:In a dry spring... the grass contains excessive levels of potassium that then induces hypomagnesemia (Grass Tetany) symptoms in horses... impacting his entire physiology [and] negatively affected his behaviour.Lordington Park AgronomyGrass effects vs serious diseaseGrass-induced excitability is common, but sudden colic, drooling or no gut sounds point to equine grass sickness and need an emergency vet visit. British Horse Society guidance is clear: EGS can appear suddenly and is frequently fatal within 48 hours in acute cases.The BHS describes acute EGS as a rapid-onset disease that causes severe colic signs, difficulty swallowing, drooling and often requires euthanasia within two days. Chronic EGS (about a third of cases) tends to show progressive weight loss, mild colic, a tucked-up abdomen and dysphagia over time; some horses can survive with intensive nursing (Grass Sickness).By contrast, gastric ulcers often sit behind recurrent mild colic and behavioural changes. In one study, 83% of horses with recurrent mild colic had ulcers especially where high-grain diets and stress are involved (Mad Barn). Ulcer clues include picky eating, girthiness, poor appetite and stretching to wee postures without passing much urine.The BHSs welfare advice is simple and important:If youre concerned about your horse, contact your vet.British Horse SocietyUse this fast triage: spookiness with twitching and tight muscles on lush grass suggests magnesium and sodium imbalance; severe, rapidly worsening signs (no gut sounds, drooling, green nasal discharge) are EGS red flags; recurrent mild colic and girthiness suggest ulcers; hindquarter pain and disuniting may indicate sacroiliac (SI) issues arrange a veterinary workup if in doubt.Signs your horse is grass-affected this UK springGrass-affected horses show spookiness plus physical signs like muscle tightness, twitching, footiness and hyper-reactivity on lush pasture. Youll often see a cluster of these changes during or after flushes of growth, or after dry spells that leave grass short but potassiumrich.Behaviour: sudden spookiness, hyper-alertness, over-reactions, unpredictable or aggressive momentsMovement: footiness on hard ground, short striding, stiffness, staggering in more severe deficiencyMuscles: tight topline, twitching, tremors, cramping, reluctance to canter or frequent disunitingHead/neck: head-flicking, ear/neck sensitivity, difficulty relaxing the pollGeneral: elevated startle response, poor focus under saddle, hot on the aidsQuick tip: palpate along the neck and quarters after turnout. Tight, reactive muscles plus fresh growth outside the stable door point strongly to grass effects. If you need help spotting subtle changes, routine body checks with good grooming tools for muscle palpation can make patterns easier to see.Practical steps to calm behaviour on lush pastureReduce grass intake, add salt, and provide shortterm magnesium support while the pasture dries to steady behaviour. Then adjust turnout to stop the problem returning with the next growth flush.Follow this action plan:Reduce access to lush grass. Use shorter turnout windows on fast-growth days, bring in at midday, and feed plain grass hay before turnout to slow intake. On livery yards where you cant stripgraze, a wellpacked haynet before and after turnout takes the edge off appetite.Test urine pH. Use simple pH strips; aim for around 7.07.5. Persistently high pH goes handinhand with high potassium intake; respond by limiting grass and increasing hay, then reassess.Add plain salt daily. UK spring pasture is typically low in sodium; topping up with salt or a salt lick supports nerve and muscle function. Pair adlib access to fresh water with salt intake to protect hydration.Support magnesium. Shortterm magnesium supplementation can help restore calm while the sward matures; choose reputable products and review need as the grass dries.Avoid lucerne/alfalfa when horses are sharp. Lucerne can exacerbate excitability in grassaffected horses during spring flushes; stick to plain grass hay as the forage base.Ride safe while you fix the forage. Swap schooling for calm hacks, keep sessions short and positive, and protect yourself with a currentstandard riding helmet.Keep them comfortable outside. In wet, chilly spells that follow growth flushes, a lightweight rug helps reduce stress while you control turnout; browse breathable spring options in our turnout rugs collection.At Just Horse Riders, we recommend building your spring toolkit early so you can act the day behaviour changes. Stock up on electrolytes, salt and magnesium supplements for the season, then review and reduce once the grass matures and behaviour normalises.Pro tip: If your horse feels body tight, incorporate in-hand grazing breaks, carrot stretches, and light walk work before you ask for focus under saddle; add protective horse boots and bandages for fresh, playful turnout days.How much grass is too much?On good UK pasture, horses will easily consume 23% of bodyweight in dry matter and graze 1620 hours a day, so unrestricted turnout often means overconsumption. CAFRE notes that on limited-turnout yards, horses may still exceed their needs on high-quality swards fuelling excitability and weight gain.For a 500 kg horse, 23% of bodyweight equals 1015 kg of dry matter daily; on lush spring grass with high moisture, that can mean many kilos more as-fed and it happens fast when grazing time is unlimited. Practical ways to keep intake (and potassium) in check:Time-restrict turnout during rapid growth; bring in before grazing appetite peaks.Create lawns and roughs in paddocks so horses spend time foraging lower-yield areas, not gorging the richest leaf tips.Prefeed hay to slow the initial grass binge, then turn out.Consider a track system or subdivide fields to control bite size, especially after rain following a dry spell.Use steady exercise and mental enrichment on indays to keep stress low while you manage grass.For changeable UK spring weather, hardwearing rugs from trusted brands make controlled turnout easier to manage; see our latest WeatherBeeta range for breathable layers that suit drizzle-to-downpour days.When to call the vet immediatelyCall your vet immediately if you see sudden colic with no gut sounds, excessive drooling, trembling, or rapid deterioration these are red flags for acute EGS. The BHS emphasises that acute EGS is often fatal within two days and warrants urgent veterinary assessment on first suspicion.Differentiate the big three quickly:Acute EGS: sudden severe colic, little to no gut sounds, drooping eyelids, drooling, possible green fluid from the nose. Emergency remove from grass and call the vet now (BHS).Chronic EGS: gradual weight loss, mild intermittent colic, tuckedup abdomen, trouble swallowing (some can recover with intensive nursing see the Grass Sickness charity for care guidance).Ulcers: recurrent mild colic, picky eating, girthiness, stretching to urinate, dull performance; book a gastroscope if signs persist (Mad Barn).Also watch for the grass tetany picture: nervousness, staggering, muscle twitching or sudden aggression on high-potassium pasture, especially after dry spells; call your vet and start management (reduce grass, add salt, consider magnesium) while awaiting advice (FeedXL; Lordington Park Agronomy).Bottom line: in UK spring, assume the pasture plays a role when behaviour flips. Act early restrict lush grazing, add salt, support magnesium, then reassess weekly as the grass matures. For calm, safer riding while you reset the diet, keep a wellfitted helmet on your head and essentials like magnesium and electrolytes in the feed room.FAQsWhy does my normally calm horse get spooky on spring grass?Lush, highpotassium grass lowers magnesium and provides too little sodium, disrupting nerve and muscle function and making horses spooky, tense and overreactive. This grassaffected state mirrors grass tetany mechanisms and often appears during rapid growth or after dry spells followed by rain (FeedXL; Lordington Park Agronomy).How do I tell grass sickness from ulcers?EGS shows acute red flags: severe colic with little/no gut sounds, drooling, possible green nasal fluid, trembling and rapid decline call the vet immediately (BHS). Ulcers cause recurrent mild colic, picky eating, girthiness and stretching to wee; they need veterinary diagnosis (gastroscopy) and management (Mad Barn).What urine pH should I aim for when my horse is grass-affected?A practical target is about pH 7.07.5. If urine pH runs higher, reduce lush grass intake (limit turnout, add hay), provide salt and reassess as the pasture dries.Should I avoid lucerne/alfalfa when my horse is sharp on grass?Yes. During spring flushes, lucerne/alfalfa can exacerbate excitability in grassaffected horses. Use plain grass hay as the forage base while you stabilise behaviour.Can a dry UK spring be as risky as lush growth?Yes. Dry springs can stunt growth but concentrate potassium in short grass, triggering the same hypomagnesemia signs (spookiness, twitching, aggression) when horses overgraze (Lordington Park Agronomy).Whats the simplest first step when my horse suddenly gets sharp?Bring them off lush grass, feed plain hay, add salt, and plan shorter turnouts for a week while you introduce magnesium support. Ride conservatively with a wellfitted helmet until behaviour settles; call your vet if you see any EGS red flags. Shop the Essentials Everything mentioned in this guide, ready to browse. Shop SupplementsShop Turnout RugsShop Riding HelmetsShop Boots & BandagesShop Grooming Kit

The Cob Stallion book is now available online, providing breeders with access to the latest information in one location.The online Stallion Book will be updated on an ongoing basis as results are received.Breeders are encouraged to check back regularly for updates as new results are added.Click the image below to view the Irish Cob Studbook Stallion Book.The post Irish Cob Horse Stallion Book Now Available Online appeared first on .

Fly masks, fly sheets, or boots can protect horses from flies and other pests during turnout. | Adobe Stock1. Make your property less hospitableMuck stalls daily and consider applying a nontoxic drying agent such as sodium bisulfate to your stall floors to reduce moisture. Also regularly pick up the manure from run-in sheds and areas in the paddocks or fields where horses congregate. Deposit manure and soiled bedding in an area away from the barn and implement a removal or composting program. If you cant remove stored manure, cover it with a tarp to raise the internal temperature. This will make it unsuitable for fly development.Also reduce or eliminate any standing water on your property where fly and mosquito larvae can develop. Look for poorly draining gutters and low areas where puddles form. If your property has a pond or marshy area, ask your local cooperative extension about ways to control insect populations.2. Use physical barriers and deterrentsProtect turned out horses from flies and other pests by outfitting them withfly masks, fly sheets, and boots.In addition, a variety of options can help reduce the fly population in and around your barn. These include window screens, electronic bug zappers, and electric agricultural fans in the barn that will discourage flying pests.3. Leverage biological controlsFly predatorstiny parasitoid wasps that neither sting nor bite horses or peopleare one of the most effective biological controls available. These insects work by laying their eggs inside fly pupae, preventing houseflies and stable flies from ever reaching adulthood. Fly predators arrive packaged in the cocoon stage and are simply sprinkled onto manure piles and other fly-friendly areas around the barn. You may also want to encourage natural fly predators such as birds or bats to live around your barn.4. Deploy chemical controlsFour main categories of chemicals can help fight flies: repellents and insecticides, residual or space sprays, insect growth regulators, and bait stations. Most fly sprays are either repellents, which drive flies away, or insecticides, which kill them on contact. But some products combine both actions for maximum effect.The specific formula is another important consideration. Oil-based products offer longer-lasting protection but can attract dirt and irritate skin. Water-based formulas are gentler but break down faster in wet conditions. For the barn itself, residual pesticides can be applied directly to surfaces like rafters, door frames, and screens.Space sprays are dispersed into the air for a rapid knockdown of flying pestseffective in the moment, but short-lived and requiring frequent reapplication to maintain results. Bait products, which contain both an insect attractant and an insecticide, also help reduce fly populations. Depending on the formula, bait products are scattered in fly breeding areas or placed in stations around the barn.Finally, another chemical fly control option is feed-through products that insect growth regulators (IGRs). The larvicide in IGR feed-through products is formulated to be activated in the horses manure rather than his body, preventing the formation of fly larvae exoskeletons and, thus, inhibiting their development.Fly control is rarely a one-and-done effortyoull need to devise a multilayered strategy, apply it consistently, and adjust your approach as the season progresses. By tackling the problem at each stage of the fly life cycle rather than simply reacting to the mature pests buzzing around your barn, youll see better results with less frustration. Over time, this integrated approach might not only reduce the fly burden on your horses but also reduce your reliance on chemical treatmentsmaking it a win for your horses, your property, and your wallet.

11 min read Last updated: January 2026 If your horse feels off behindsticky transitions, worse on circles or soft winter groundPSD could be the culprit. Youll get a vet-backed plan to spot signs, choose treatment and structure rehab, including why forelimb PSD often recovers with 36 months of controlled rest (about 90%) while many hindlimb cases need surgery (around 78%) to return to work confidently. Quick Summary Short on time? Here are the key takeaways. Area: Spot Early Signs What To Do: Track rideability changes (shortened cranial stride, resistance on the outside rein, worse on soft circles) and test on a circle; call your vet promptly. Why It Matters: Early intervention can prevent degenerative change and shorten rehab. Common Mistake: Waiting for obvious straight-line lameness before acting. Area: Fore vs Hind Plan What To Do: Use 36 months rest plus controlled exercise for forelimb PSD; for hindlimb PSD, discuss surgical options early if conservative care isnt progressing. Why It Matters: Limb-specific plans deliver higher return-to-sport rates. Common Mistake: Relying on rest alone for hind PSD despite poor progress. Area: Build Your Team What To Do: Engage a BEVA-registered vet, FRA-compliant farrier and qualified physio; agree a written plan with scheduled check-ins. Why It Matters: Coordinated decisions align medication, shoeing and exercises to reduce re-injury risk. Common Mistake: Changing workload or shoes without team sign-off. Area: Phase-Based Rehab What To Do: Follow three phasesprotect (box rest, cold therapy), rebuild, return to sportprogressing only when pain/heat settle and imaging supports the step. Why It Matters: Structured loading rebuilds capacity without flare-ups. Common Mistake: Advancing phases on a calendar rather than response-to-load. Area: Controlled Exercise What To Do: Start 510 minutes hand-walking 23 times daily, build to 1015 minutes by weeks 58; begin straight-line trot and build to 10 minutes over 810 weeks before any canter. Why It Matters: Gradual, straight work restores tissue alignment safely. Common Mistake: Adding circles, sharp turns or just a little canter too soon. Area: Shoeing & Balance What To Do: Ask your farrier to ease breakover, maintain mediolateral balance, bias support if unilateral, and shorten shoeing intervals during rehab. Why It Matters: Correct hoof balance reduces suspensory load every stride. Common Mistake: Letting toes run long or stretching shoeing intervals. Area: Surface Management What To Do: Use firm, consistent footing for walking and early trot; avoid deep, wet arenas or slick fields; add varied surfaces only in Phase 2 with guidance. Why It Matters: Appropriate footing limits hindlimb strain and setbacks. Common Mistake: Schooling on soft winter going during early rehab. Area: Monitor & Milestones What To Do: Keep a diary of surfaces, work and behaviour; set go/no-go criteria (e.g., no heat or reaction 24 hours post-session) before increasing load. Why It Matters: Objective tracking prevents overfacing and relapse. Common Mistake: Increasing workload on feel without post-exercise checks. In This Guide What is proximal suspensory desmitis (PSD)? Early signs: how PSD actually presents Best treatments: rest, surgery, and what works Your step-by-step rehabilitation plan Shoeing and surface management that protects the ligament Kit that makes PSD rehab safer and easier How long will rehab take? Realistic timelines When to call the vet and build your team If your horse has become tricky to ride on a circle, resistant in transitions, or just not right behind after training on soft winter ground, proximal suspensory desmitis (PSD) should be on your radar. Caught early and managed with a clear plan, many PSD cases can return to work safely.Key takeaway: Forelimb PSD often responds to 36 months of rest and controlled exercise with around 90% returning to function, while hindlimb PSD is commonly degenerative and frequently needs surgery for the best outcome (about 78% back to full athleticism).What is proximal suspensory desmitis (PSD)?PSD is injury to the top (proximal) part of the suspensory ligament; in hindlimbs it often shows as one- or two-sided lameness or just rideability problems, while forelimb cases more often show clearer lameness and have a better prognosis. In sports horses, hindlimb PSD is common and can be subtle to detect without targeted assessment and imaging.PSD involves pain and dysfunction at the origin of the suspensory ligament. In the hindlimb this structure sits deep against the cannon bone and is influenced by footing, conformation, shoeing and workload. UK eventers and jumpers are particularly vulnerable when schooling or competing on wet, soft ground in autumn and winter, where the hind limbs work hard to push off and stabilise. Prognosis differs by limb: forelimb PSD generally does well with conservative care, whereas hindlimb PSD often requires more aggressive management to avoid chronic lameness.Early signs: how PSD actually presentsPoor rideability without obvious lameness is a red flag for hindlimb PSD; expect shortened cranial (forward) stride, resistance on the outside rein, and worse performance on the outside circle on soft ground. Lameness can be one-sided, two-sided, or absent at a straight-line trot, so circle work and palpation are crucial.Practical clues include reluctance to sit behind in downward transitions, inconsistent canter leads, tail swishing, or a hollow frame under saddle. Because these signs overlap with hock or back pain, use in-hand assessment on a soft surface, flexion tests, and targeted palpation before asking your vet to image the suspensory. Many hindlimb cases only show up when you circle, particularly on a deeper arena. In our experience, riders often report he just wont bend that way today weeks before any clear head nod is seen.Quick tip: Keep a simple diary of surfaces, schooling intensity and behaviour changes. Patterns that worsen on deep or wet going are a common PSD signature in UK conditions.Best treatments: rest, surgery, and what worksAcute forelimb PSD usually responds well to rest and controlled exercise over 36 months (around 90% return to function), but hindlimb PSD is often degenerative and rest with or without shockwave is frequently disappointing; surgery has the best evidence, with about 78% of suitable hindlimb cases returning to full athletic function.For hindlimb PSD, many vets recommend surgical options (such as fasciotomy and neurectomy in properly selected cases) once diagnosis is confirmed and if conservative care fails to progress. As summarised by a Horse & Rider Magazine veterinary contributor:Hindlimb PSD is usually a degenerative injury and the response to rest alone or combined with shockwave therapy is often disappointing. Surgery usually achieves the best results. Horse & RiderForelimb PSD, particularly when newly diagnosed, commonly improves with a minimum of three months box rest plus controlled walking and a graded return to work. Hindlimb cases need a more nuanced plan and a realistic timeline to avoid relapse. As equine rehabilitation specialist Johnson notes:We need to balance mitigating pain and rebuilding strategies to optimally return to athleticism. EquiManagementAt Just Horse Riders, we recommend you and your BEVA-registered vet agree a treatment direction early. If your hind PSD case is suitable for surgery, planned rehab can begin as soon as your clinician advises, with structured check-ins to guide the next steps.Your step-by-step rehabilitation planRehab for PSD runs in three phases: Phase 1 focuses on pain modulation and rest (typically 26 months), Phase 2 rebuilds strength and coordination, and Phase 3 returns the horse to discipline-specific work with careful load management.There is no one-size-fits-all timetable, but you can anchor your plan to clinical grade and limb: Grade 12 lameness: Often progress to Phase 2 by 23 months if signs settle and imaging supports it. Grade 34 or significant branch injury: Expect 46 months in Phase 1 alone before rebuilding, with 13 months before any meaningful activity for branch involvement.Phase 1 (Pain modulation and protection, 26 months): Box rest with controlled exercise. Weeks 04: confine to the stable with 510 minutes of calm hand-walking 23 times daily. Weeks 58: increase to 1015 minutes, 3 times daily, as advised by your vet. Icing and anti-inflammatory strategies. Apply cold therapy to the hind suspensory using crushed ice in water or ice boots in regular sessions, particularly after any exercise or flare-ups. TENS, medication and shockwave if prescribed. Your vet may add ESWT (shockwave) especially for chronic fibres to encourage healing.Phase 2 (Rebuild tissue capacity and coordination): Progress controlled walking, introduce straight-line trot only when signed off. After 13 months of rest, some horses benefit from water treadmill walking (reduced limb loading), followed by under-saddle trot building gradually to 10 minutes over 810 weeks before any canter. Use therapeutic tools such as balance pads, core activation, ground poles, surface changes and carefully applied resistance bands to restore proprioception and strength.Phase 3 (Return to sport): Layer in discipline-specific drills and planned aerobic/anaerobic efforts, interspersed with lighter days to avoid overload. Operate an easy-hard-easy rhythm to protect soft tissue while keeping bone conditioned.Two core principles underpin every step:There is no one size fits all... When rehabilitating a proximal suspensory, we need to consider the value of planned increases and decreases in workload and loading for bone versus soft tissue to avoid reinjury. EquiManagementThere is no cookbook recipe for rehabilitation of suspensory branch injuries... A significant commitment from the owner, trainer and rider is necessary for successful outcomes. FVMAPro tip: In wet UK winters, behaviour management matters. Quiet hand-walking twice daily is often safer in hi-vis if you use yard tracks or lanes consider high-visibility rider gear for low-light sessions.Shoeing and surface management that protects the ligamentBalanced trimming and shoeing that ease breakover and reduce suspensory load are essential; widen the toe, narrow the heel bearing surface, and bias support to the affected side if unilateral, while avoiding deep, wet going that strains the hind limb.Work closely with a farrier who complies with the Farriery Registration Act (FRA). Hoof balance influences suspensory forces with every step; even small mediolateral imbalances can perpetuate pain. For unilateral hind PSD, your vetfarrier team may recommend a wider web on the affected side and a narrowed heel bearing surface to reduce peak loading. Schedule shorter shoeing intervals during rehab to maintain optimum angles and breakover.Surface choice is an unsung hero. Avoid deep arenas and slick fields, particularly in autumn and winter. Use firm, consistent footing for hand-walking and early trot work. If your yard footing is variable, plan sessions in the most predictable arena and save varied surfaces for later proprioceptive work in Phase 2 under veterinary guidance.Kit that makes PSD rehab safer and easierSupport boots for controlled exercise, ice therapy boots for Phase 1, and balance pads or poles for Phase 2 make day-to-day rehab safer and more effective, while weather-appropriate rugs help you manage turnout and box rest in UK conditions.Our customers often ask which kit genuinely helps without overcomplicating things. Start with the essentials: Support during controlled work: Use well-fitted brushing or tendon boots during hand-walking and early trot to minimise knocks. Explore our curated horse boots and bandages for suspensory-friendly options. Cold therapy made simple: Ice boots or ice-water wraps save time and deliver consistent cooling in Phase 1. Rebuild tools for Phase 2: Balance pads and ground poles help re-educate proprioception and core stability; see training aids from leading brands like LeMieux. Weather management: For box rest and limited turnout in rain, choose reliable rugs. Check our winter turnout rugs and brand staples like WeatherBeeta to keep backs dry and muscles warm between sessions, and consider stable rugs for box rest when the temperature drops. Adjunct therapies: Your vet may recommend shockwave therapy; plan appointments and keep a simple log of session dates, settings and responses. Nutrition support: While no supplement replaces rest and rehab, targeted nutrition can support overall soft tissue health; browse supplements for tendon and ligament support and discuss options with your vet or nutritionist.At Just Horse Riders, we recommend simplicity first: protect, cool, rebuild then condition for sport. Add tools only if they make sessions safer or more consistent.How long will rehab take? Realistic timelinesNew forelimb PSD needs a minimum of three months of rest and controlled exercise before ridden work, while hindlimb PSD can require up to six months in Phase 1 alone; under-saddle trot then builds to 10 minutes over 810 weeks before any canter.Use the following as a practical guide (your vets imaging and response-to-load will dictate exact pacing): Weeks 04: Box rest; 510 minutes hand-walking 23 times daily; cold therapy after walks. Weeks 58: Increase to 1015 minutes walking 3 times daily; consider introducing water treadmill walking if available and approved. Months 34: Begin straight-line trot sets under saddle (e.g., start at 12 minutes, building to 10 minutes across 810 weeks), maintaining rest days between stimulus days. Months 56: Introduce canter only after sustaining 10 minutes of trot without reaction; start with short, straight canters on good footing.The grade of injury changes everything. Mild Grade 12 may move to Phase 2 in 23 months, while Grade 34 or significant branch injury can demand 46 months of Phase 1 alone. Hindlimb PSD carries a more guarded prognosis without adjuncts such as shockwave or surgery; discuss surgical candidacy early to avoid losing time.When to call the vet and build your teamCall your BEVA-registered vet at the first sign of PSD-type rideability issues, then involve a FRA-compliant farrier and qualified physio to align shoeing, surfaces and exercises; imaging confirms PSD and guides the plan.Because hind PSD so often masquerades as back or hock pain, early diagnostics matter. Your vet will use gait assessment on circles, palpation, flexion tests and imaging to confirm the lesion and its severity. From there, work as a team: vet sets the medical plan (and surgery if indicated), farrier reduces suspensory load via shoeing changes, and physio builds proprioception and core strength at the right time. The British Horse Society (BHS) directory is a helpful place to find qualified professionals if youre starting from scratch, and BEVAs Find a Vet ensures youre working with recognised clinicians.Quick tip: Agree written go/no-go criteria for each rehab milestone (e.g., no heat or reaction 24 hours post-walk before increasing by 5 minutes). This keeps everyone honest and protects your horse from well-meant but risky enthusiasm.Conclusion: bring your horse back strongerPSD rehab succeeds when you match the treatment to the limb and grade, manage load precisely, and commit to months of measured, consistent work. For forelimbs, rest and controlled exercise often suffice; for hindlimbs, surgery plus structured rehab delivers the best return to sport. Equip yourself with the right team, sensible footing, and a few practical tools, and youll stack the odds in your horses favour.FAQsIs poor behaviour under saddle without clear lameness a sign of hind PSD?Yes. Hindlimb PSD commonly presents as rideability problems without obvious straight-line lameness. Look for a shortened cranial stride, reluctance on the outside circle (especially on soft going), and resistance in transitions. Ask your vet to assess on a soft surface and palpate the suspensory region.Is rest alone enough for hindlimb PSD?Often not. Hindlimb PSD is commonly degenerative, and rest with or without shockwave can be disappointing. Surgery typically provides the best outcomes, with about 78% of suitable cases returning to full athletic function. Discuss candidacy with your vet early.How long before I can ride again after PSD?For new forelimb PSD, plan for a minimum of three months of box rest and controlled walking before beginning ridden work. Hindlimb PSD varies more: some horses spend up to six months in Phase 1 before rebuilding. Trot work should build gradually to 10 minutes over 810 weeks before canter.What surfaces are safest during rehab?Firm, consistent footing is best in early phases. Avoid deep, wet arenas or rutted fields that increase hindlimb strain. Save varied surfaces and polework for Phase 2 under guidance, once pain is controlled and early capacity is restored.Can light work help during rehab?Yes controlled hand-walking (e.g., 1020 minutes daily, progressing as advised) supports circulation, tissue alignment and behaviour. Avoid just a little canter or sharp turns until your vet signs off your next step to prevent reinjury.Do boots prevent suspensory injuries?Boots dont prevent PSD, but they protect against knocks and add confidence during controlled exercise. Choose well-fitted boots from our horse boots and bandages range and prioritise footing and load management for real protection.What yard kit is most useful for UK winters during rehab?Reliable rugs and safe walking gear. Use turnout rugs or stable rugs to keep muscles warm and dry, plus hi-vis for hand-walking on gloomy days. Balance pads and poles from brands like LeMieux are invaluable in Phase 2. Shop the Essentials Everything mentioned in this guide, ready to browse. Shop Boots & BandagesShop Turnout RugsShop Stable RugsShop Hi-Vis GearShop Supplements

11 min read Last updated: January 2026 Plans on the line every time the UK forecast flips? Use this rider-focused guide to read Met Office yellows, ambers and racing red heat warnings so you can go, review or cancel with confidenceplus practical care rules like risk-assessing heat from 28C and offering water every 4.5 hours when travelling. Quick Summary Short on time? Here are the key takeaways. Area: Met Office Warnings What To Do: Check warnings for both route and venue. Yellow: proceed with published mitigations; amber: await review and be ready to cancel; red heat (racing): do not travel and expect abandonment. Why It Matters: Aligns plans with safety rules and prevents risky or wasted journeys. Common Mistake: Only checking the venues warning and ignoring the route. Area: Thunderstorm Safety What To Do: Stable in a well-earthed building during lightning; if turnout is unavoidable, fence off lone trees, wire and water, and split groups. Why It Matters: Reduces lightning strike, step-voltage and panic injury risks. Common Mistake: Letting horses shelter under isolated trees or along wire fences. Area: Heat 28C What To Do: Trigger a heat risk assessment at 28C; ride early/late, shorten work, maximise shade, and offer water frequently (at least every 4.5 hours when travelling). Why It Matters: Controls heat load and prevents heat illness. Common Mistake: Keeping normal timetables during hot, humid spells. Area: Hydration & Cooling What To Do: Provide 5070 litres/day for a 500kg horse in heat and set multiple water points. After work, hose and reapply water continuously for 15+ minutes, scraping only to speed the next cycle. Why It Matters: Maintains hydration and rapidly lowers core temperature. Common Mistake: A quick hose-down then stopping too soon. Area: Winter Shelter & Water What To Do: Guarantee constant access to shelter or stable them during storms; keep troughs ice-free, site water out of the wind, and add non-slip at doors. Why It Matters: Meets legal welfare duties and prevents dehydration and falls. Common Mistake: Assuming hedges alone provide adequate shelter. Area: Rain, Mud & Flooding What To Do: Postpone if emergency access is restricted; close flooded or unstable turnout; move supplies to higher ground and lay temporary surfaces on busy paths. Why It Matters: Prevents injuries and ensures medical response is possible. Common Mistake: Turning out on saturated, poached gateways. Area: Competition-Day Decisions What To Do: Use three checks: Met Office colour, organisers mitigation plan, and your horses welfare; if any fail, delay, modify or cancel, and confirm ambulance access before leaving. Why It Matters: Keeps welfare first and avoids travelling into unsafe situations. Common Mistake: Setting off before the organiser posts their mitigation update. Area: Travel & Show Kit What To Do: Pack ample water, electrolytes (vet-advised), shade, hoses/sponges/scrapers, spare rugs matched to forecast, first aid, and charged phones; do a five-minute weather check before loading. Why It Matters: Ensures you can adapt quickly as conditions change on site. Common Mistake: Relying on venue water or shade without a backup. In This Guide Met Office warnings: what they mean for your rides and events Thunderstorms: turnout, stabling and lightning safety Heat and humidity: how to keep horses safe above 28C Cold snaps, ice and snow: legal shelter and hydration Heavy rain, mud and flooding: when to postpone turnout or travel What to wear and pack for extreme-weather riding Competition day: a simple decision framework UK weather turns on a sixpence and your plans with it. Whether youre schooling at home, travelling to a show or managing a busy livery yard, understanding what Met Office warnings actually mean for you and your horse keeps everyone safer and saves wasted journeys.Key takeaway: Yellow warnings usually mean go, with mitigations; amber means review and possibly cancel; red heat warnings for racing mean abandon and do not travel through the affected area. Your day-to-day care should flex too: stable in thunderstorms, risk assess heat from 28C, and guarantee winter shelter and water.Met Office warnings: what they mean for your rides and eventsYellow warnings allow events to proceed with a published mitigation plan; amber triggers a joint review and possible cancellation; red heat warnings covering a racecourse mandate abandonment and ban trainers from travelling horses through the area. These protocols align welfare and safety across UK equestrian sport.British Dressage (BD) uses the Met Office colour system to decide if and how competitions run. Under a yellow warning, venues must prepare and communicate a mitigation strategy and keep conditions under close review. An amber warning triggers consultation with BD; if risks cant be adequately reduced, events are cancelled with as much notice as possible. Horse & Hound reports this structured approach enables consistent, proactive decisions.By having a more formal framework, based on the red, amber, and yellow warnings provided by the Met Office, this allows us sufficient time to consult with the venue, and either reschedule if necessary or put mitigations in place to ensure it is safe to go ahead. BD spokesperson, via Horse & HoundIn racing, the line is firmer in extreme heat. Under the British Horseracing Authoritys hot weather policy, a red Met Office heat warning that includes the racecourse requires immediate abandonment, and trainers must not travel horses through the red-alert region en route (BHA Hot Weather Policy).Across Pony Club activity, 28C is the key trigger for a formal heat risk assessment that considers horses, riders, supporters and officials, with measures such as altered timetables, extra water and shade, or postponement where needed (Pony Club Hot Weather Guidance).Thunderstorms: turnout, stabling and lightning safetyStable horses in a well-grounded building during lightning storms; if turnout is unavoidable, remove access to isolated trees, wire fences and water, and avoid exposing shod horses in open fields. This significantly reduces strike and step-voltage risks.Horses can panic and herd under trees or along fence lines in thunder, increasing strike risk; metal shoes add a further conduction hazard. The British Horse Society recommends stabling in a grounded building (ideally with a lightning rod) when thunderstorms are forecast, and making fields safer by fencing off lone trees, streams and wire boundaries (Horse & Hound/BHS guidance).If you have access to well-grounded stabling, we would advise keeping an eye on the weather forecast and stabling your horse if there is a threat of a lightning storm. Gemma Stanford, Head of Welfare, BHS, via Horse & HoundIf you must turn out, split groups into safer paddocks away from risk features and remove buckets/tubs from under trees. Check stable earthing and gutters in autumn, and consider a professional assessment for a lightning protection system before storm season. While you wait out the weather, keep horses calm with routine handling and enrichment.For wet, windy conditions that dont reach lightning risk, keep horses comfortable outdoors with waterproof winter turnout rugs that protect against driving rain while maintaining breathability.Heat and humidity: how to keep horses safe above 28CAt 28C and above you should complete a heat risk assessment, adjust work to cooler parts of the day, and provide copious water; racing under a red heat warning is abandoned and horses must not travel through the affected area. A 500kg horse can need 5070 litres of water per day in hot weather, more with exercise.Heat and humidity blunt a horses ability to cool by sweating, especially in southern UK spells. The Pony Clubs guidance requires risk assessment from 28C, with options including earlier/shorter sessions, more shade, and extra cooling infrastructure (Pony Club).Hydration is non-negotiable. The British Horse Society advises that a 500kg horse typically drinks 5070 litres per day in hot conditions, and more with work. Offer frequent access to cool, clean water at home and away; travelling horses should be offered water at least every 4.5 hours, and venues should provide water at the yard, unsaddling area, pull-up, horse walks and winners enclosure with rapid refills between races (BHS; BHA policy).Post-exercise, cool promptly and continuously. Walk in shade and hose repeatedly for 15 minutes or more; scrape only if it speeds up the next cooling cycle rather than delaying it. Watch for heat illness signs such as unsteadiness, collapse, or abnormal breathing then move immediately to shade, douse with water and call your vet to prevent complications such as kidney or liver damage or laminitis (RSPCA).Light, reflective layers can help. Use breathable fly rugs and masks to provide shade and insect protection without trapping heat, and consider a lightweight cooler for short recovery periods after early-morning or evening rides.Pro tip: Plan your hot-weather kit the way racecourses do multiple water points, plentiful hoses and dedicated refillers. Keep electrolytes in your horse care supplements kit for horses working or travelling in heat (check with your vet for individual dosing).Cold snaps, ice and snow: legal shelter and hydrationUK law requires horses kept outdoors in winter to have constant access to shelter; if none is available, you must move or stable them. Keep troughs icefree and plan transport with snow contingencies such as extra bedding and checks for shivering or lethargy.Winter storms bring wind chill, sleet and prolonged wet. The governments extreme weather guidance is clear: outdoor-kept horses must always have shelter; where thats not possible during a storm, bring them into stables or alternative housing (GOV.UK). Ensure stable roofs, doors and ventilation are sound before the season starts, and check field shelters for safe footing and secure fixings.Water is a winter welfare risk. Keep troughs and buckets ice-free to maintain intake; heated troughs or insulating wraps can help reduce daily breaking of ice in persistent freezes. For transport in snow, build in extra time and pack spare bedding and rugs; monitor horses for shivering or lethargy and postpone if conditions risk prolonged stands or diversions (GOV.UK).Rug wise, thin-coated or unacclimatised horses often need additional protection in cold, wet snaps especially when clipped or elderly while ensuring good ventilation to avoid respiratory issues (Horse Vet Hampshire). Choose appropriate weights of stable rugs indoors and robust, breathable waterproofs outdoors according to your horses condition and the actual forecast, rather than the calendar.Quick tip: Place water sources away from prevailing wind and add non-slip mats at stable doors to prevent ice-related falls for both horses and handlers.Heavy rain, mud and flooding: when to postpone turnout or travelCancel or postpone activity if emergency access is compromised; British Eventing halts competition if an ambulance cannot reach all areas. Close flooded or unstable turnout until it drains and footing is safe.The UKs autumnwinter pattern includes sustained rain and localised flooding. For competitions, medical access is a hard stop: if ambulances or rapid response vehicles cant move safely around the site, British Eventing rules require the event to stop (British Eventing), aligning with the British Horse Societys welfare-first approach.At home, prepare flood plans early. Move field furniture, hay and bedding to higher ground and identify alternative turnout or stabling before water rises (SEIB flood advice). Rope off boggy gateways, repair drains, and use temporary surfaces on high-traffic paths to reduce slips and tendon strains. When rain is heavy but not hazardous, waterproof, breathable turnout rugs help maintain comfort while allowing sweat to evaporate.After muddy spells, thorough, gentle de-mudding protects skin and tack; keep a well-stocked grooming kit by the wash-down area so you can rinse, scrape and dry briskly before stabling.What to wear and pack for extreme-weather ridingUse high-visibility PPE and a properly fitted helmet for you, and weather-appropriate rugs and cooling gear for your horse. Pack water, shade, and first-aid items so you can adapt instantly as conditions change.For riders: visibility and head protection are non-negotiables in poor light, rain or fog. Choose certified, well-fitting riding helmets and layer up with hi-vis clothing and accessories for roadwork or low-contrast days. Waterproof outer layers and grippy gloves help maintain control in showers and gusts.For horses: match layers to the days risk. In summer heat, prioritise airflow and shade (fly rugs, fly masks, coolers for recovery); in cold rain and wind, reach for breathable waterproofs outside and appropriate indoor layers. Keep spare numnahs, a sweat scraper, and a clean towel for rapid drying or cooling cycles.Show and travel kit list:Ample water (separate supply from towing vehicle) and multiple bucketsElectrolytes and salt in your supplements kit (vet-advised for work/travel in heat)Shade options (awnings, pop-up shelters) and a thermometer/hygrometerHoses, sponges and scrapers for rapid cooling or wash-downsSpare rugs suited to the forecast: a lightweight cooler and a waterproof layerFirst-aid supplies for horse and rider, and charged phones with venue/emergency contactsAt Just Horse Riders, we recommend doing a five-minute weather check before you load: confirm the latest Met Office warning level, re-check the venues mitigation plan, and top up water and shade provisions accordingly.Competition day: a simple decision frameworkDecide using three inputs: the Met Office warning colour, the venues published mitigation plan, and your horses welfare status. If any one fails, delay, modify, or cancel.Use this quick pathway before you travel:Check the current Met Office warning for your route and the venue. Yellow: expect mitigations; amber: prepare for changes or cancellation; red heat (racing): do not go meetings are abandoned and horses must not transit through the red zone (BHA policy).Read the organisers mitigation plan (water points, timetable changes, shaded lorry park, medical access). Under BD rules, yellow requires a plan; amber triggers joint review and possible cancellation (BD via Horse & Hound).Assess your horse. In heat from 28C, complete or request a formal risk assessment (Pony Club standard), check hydration, travel time and shade at the destination (Pony Club).Confirm emergency access. If an ambulance cannot reach all areas, the event should stop (British Eventing rule) and you should not travel in until resolved (British Eventing).Make the welfare call. If any control is insufficient, postpone. The global standard is clear:Events must not prejudice horse welfare: competitions must not take place in extreme weather conditions that may compromise welfare or safety of the horse. FEI Code of ConductWhen conditions allow you to proceed, pack the mitigations you control: water, shade, cooling gear, and appropriate rugs from home. For hot days, a breathable fly rug; for showery spells, a dependable waterproof.FAQsYes find quick answers to the most common UK weather-and-welfare questions below.Should events proceed under a yellow Met Office warning?Yes, provided the venue has a clear mitigation strategy and communicates it to competitors. British Dressage requires organisers to plan and monitor conditions under yellow warnings so activity can continue safely (BD via Horse & Hound). Expect measures such as timetable tweaks, extra water points and shaded areas.What if an amber warning is issued for an event?An amber warning triggers a joint review between the organiser and the governing body. If mitigations can adequately control the risks, the event may proceed; if not, it should be cancelled with as much notice as possible (BD via Horse & Hound). Always check emails and the organisers social channels before leaving.Is it safe to leave horses out in thunderstorms?No. The BHS advises stabling in a well-grounded building (ideally with a lightning rod) during a thunderstorm. If turnout is unavoidable, make fields safer by fencing off isolated trees, streams and wire fences, and be mindful that steel shoes increase conduction risk (Horse & Hound/BHS).What temperature triggers event cancellation?At 28C, Pony Club activity requires a heat risk assessment and mitigations across horses, riders and officials (Pony Club). In racing, a red Met Office heat warning that covers a racecourse mandates abandonment and prohibits trainers from travelling horses through the red zone (BHA).How much shelter do horses need in UK winter storms?Horses kept outside must have constant access to shelter. If thats not available during extreme weather, you must move or stable them to comply with welfare law (GOV.UK). Check field shelters are safe, dry and accessible before storms hit.When should you rug horses in bad weather?Rug decisions depend on the individual. Thincoated, clipped, elderly or unacclimatised horses often need extra protection in cold, wet weather, while ensuring good ventilation to avoid respiratory problems (Horse Vet Hampshire). Outdoors, choose breathable waterproofs; indoors, use appropriate stable rugs matched to temperature and body condition.How much water will my horse need in hot weather, and how often should I offer it when travelling?In hot conditions a 500kg horse may drink 5070 litres per day, with needs rising if exercising (BHS). When travelling in the heat, offer water at least every 4.5 hours and ensure easy access to multiple water points at your destination (BHA policy).Whatever the forecast throws at you, planning beats panic. Build your yard and show-day checklists now, keep an eye on the Met Office warnings, and equip yourself and your horse with the right layers and kit from breathable summer protection like fly rugs to storm-ready turnout rugs. If youre ever unsure, put welfare first and wait for better weather. Shop the Essentials Everything mentioned in this guide, ready to browse. Shop Turnout RugsShop Fly RugsShop Stable RugsShop SupplementsShop Hi-Vis Gear

A 21-year-old Thoroughbred gelding attending HITS Culpeper in Culpeper County, Virginia, has tested positive for equine herpesvirus-1 (EHV-1). The horse developed clinical signs on April 17, including lethargy, distal limb edema, and acute ataxia.He was evaluated at HITS Culpeper by the referring veterinarian and was referred to an equine hospital. The horse was recumbent on arrival and was admitted directly to the isolation unit by dedicated personnel. The horse was subsequently euthanized.Forty-two horses in Barn 5 at the showgrounds have been quarantined by the state veterinarian. The horses home farm in Loudoun County, where 13 horses live, has also been quarantined.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.EHV 101Herpesvirus is highly contagious among horses and can cause a variety of ailments in equids, including rhinopneumonitis (a respiratory disease usually found in young horses), abortion in broodmares, and EHM.In many horses, the first or only sign of EHV-1 infection is fever, which can go undetected.In addition to fever, other common signs of EHV-1 infection in young horses include cough, decreased appetite, depression, and a nasal discharge. Pregnant mares typically show no signs of infection before they abort, and abortions usually occur late in gestation (around eight months) but can be earlier. Abortions can occur anywhere from two weeks to several months following infection with EHV-1.Horses with EHM usually have a fever at the onset of the disease and might show signs of a respiratory infection. A few days later, neurologic signs such as ataxia (incoordination), weakness or paralysis of the fore- and hind limbs, urine retention and dribbling, loss of tail tone, and recumbency (inability to rise) develop.Herpesvirus is easily spread by nose-to-nose or close contact with an infectious horse; sharing contaminated equipment including bits, buckets, and towels; or clothing, hands, or equipment of people who have recently had contact with an infectious horse.Routine biosecurity measures, including hygiene and basic cleaning and disinfection practices, should be in place at all times to help prevent disease spread.Current EHV-1 vaccines might reduce viral shedding but are not protective against the neurologic form of the disease. Implementing routine biosecurity practices is the best way to minimize viral spread, and the best method of disease control is disease prevention.