The revision of the Dogs (Protection of Livestock) Act 1953 does not explicitly provide protection for horses being ridden or driven on public roads, bridleways or other public access routes, despite widespread belief within the equestrian community that it would.The Dogs (Protection of Livestock) Act 1953 was revised in March this year and a key area of change stated that the law had been extended to cover livestock worrying and attacks that take place on roads and paths.Many equestrians welcomed the change and common perception was that riders when riding or driving their horses would now fall under this act if they suffered an incident on roads and paths. However, Katie Smart, one of the campaigners behind Leash & Release, whose horse died as a result of injuries sustained during a dog attack in his field, sought clarification on the legislation and was told by a Defra representative that this is not the case.Regarding the recent amendment to the Dogs (Protection of Livestock) Act 1953, the Act now includes roads and paths when livestock are being moved between fields, in addition to agricultural land. The Act also includes horses within the definition of livestock. However, it does not extend to ridden horses on public roads, bridleways, or open-access land, said the representative.As a result, the protections afforded under this Act do not automatically apply to ridden horses in public spaces. In cases involving ridden horses, enforcement typically relies on the Dangerous Dogs Act or other relevant welfare or public order legislation. Prosecution decisions remain at the discretion of the CPS, with final determinations made by the courts.A matter for the courtsDefra told Your Horse that incidents involving ridden horses may still be considered under the Dangerous Dogs Act 1991, depending on the circumstances.A spokesperson for Defra said:We recognise that dog attacks can have horrific consequences, and we take this issue very seriously. The Dogs (Protection of Livestock) Act 1953 protects livestock, and this term includes horses. If a horse is attacked by a dog whilst being ridden on a road or path, there may be sufficient evidence that the dog was dangerously out of control within the meaning of section 3 of the Dangerous Dogs Act 1991.The Crown Prosecution Service would assess whether to proceed with a prosecution under section 3 of the 1991 Act or the 1953 Act (or any other relevant legislation) on a case-by-case basis. It remains a matter for the courts to ultimately decide, whether on the facts of the case, an offence has been committed. We expect the courts to interpret road or path in line with their ordinary meanings, which are broad.Current legislationThe clarification means riders whose horses are attacked by dogs in public places cannot assume incidents will be dealt with under the Dogs (Protection of Livestock) Act 1953. Instead, cases may be considered under the Dangerous Dogs Act 1991 or other relevant legislation, depending on the circumstances of the case.Under Section 3 of the Dangerous Dogs Act 1991, it is an offence for the owner or person in charge of a dog to cause or permit it to be dangerously out of control in any place.Defra told Your Horse that a dog may be considered dangerously out of control if it injures a person or a horse, or causes a person to fear that it may injure them or their horse, and the person responsible for the dog does not have proper control of it.Leash & ReleaseLeash & Release is a campaign that aims to raise awareness of dog attacks on horses and promote responsible dog ownership around equines. It has been campaigning for stronger protections for horses, riders and carriage drivers, and greater clarity around the laws covering dog-related incidents. The campaign also extends to protect other animals, including livestock and dogs.Find out more about the campaign here.Main image Your Horse LibraryRelated contentMPs support campaign for better protection for horses from loose dogsOwner pays tribute to pony who died on the road after being spooked by loose dogPrioritising the freedom of dogs: concern as Defra responds to dangerous dogs petitionOwner of horse killed after dog attack in its field backs dangerous dogs petitionThe post Revised livestock worrying law does not extend protection to horses being ridden on public roads and paths appeared first on Your Horse.

The equestrian world is mourning the loss of Stephen Clarke, one of the most respected and influential figures in British and international dressage, who passed away on Saturday 13 June 2026.Stephens remarkable career saw him officiate at the very highest level of equestrian sport, including the Olympic Games, FEI World Equestrian Games, FEI World Cup Finals and FEI European Championships.Among his many prestigious appointments, he served as president of the ground jury at the London 2012 Olympic Games a role he described as one of the proudest moments of his life.In 2013, Stephen was appointed FEI Dressage Judge General, helping to shape the future of international dressage judging and education. He played a key role in developing the FEI Judges Handbook and evolving the FEI Dressage Rules.A lasting impressionBut his contribution to dressage extended far beyond the judges box. He was also a sought-after coach, mentor, educator and ambassador for the sport.For Your Horse writer and dressage rider Lauren Williamson, who trained with Stephen for 10 years, his passing marks the loss of a mentor, teacher and friend.Lauren described him as being one of those extraordinary people who left a lasting impression on everyone fortunate enough to know him.She added that he had a generous nature, sharp wit, and infectious smile and a remarkable ability to make those around him feel at ease and valued.Training sessions with Stephen brought clarity when everything else seemed chaotic. Despite leading an incredibly busy life, he never appeared hurried. He was measured in his approach, thoughtful in his guidance, and seemed to know exactly the right thing to say at exactly the right moment, said Lauren.No matter what horse you rode, Stephen could help you improve it. His deep love of horses shone through in every lesson, reflected in the positivity, patience, and encouragement he offered so freely.He had a gift for building confidence, helping riders believe in both themselves and their horses.The outpouring of tributes following his passing is testament to the countless lives he touched. His legacy of kindness, respect, and thoughtful guidance will live on in the countless people he inspired.Those of us who were fortunate enough to know him will carry his lessons, his encouragement, and his example with us always.Working with Your Horse While Stephen was respected worldwide for his achievements and expertise, many Your Horse readers will remember him for a different reason. Over the years, he worked closely with the magazine on multiple training features, generously sharing his wisdom, experience and unique insight into dressage.His ability to explain complex concepts with clarity and warmth made him hugely popular with readers, who valued his practical advice and approachable manner.A distinguished FEI 5* dressage judge, Stephen dedicated more than four decades of his life to the sport he loved, earning admiration and respect from riders, judges and officials around the globe.Renowned for his exceptional knowledge, fairness and unwavering commitment to dressage, he played a pivotal role in shaping generations of competitors and officials, leaving an enduring legacy that will be felt throughout the sport for many years to come.He helped shape our sportStephen was one of those rare individuals who made everyone around him better, and the extraordinary outpouring of tributes since his passing stands as a testament to both his deep love for the sport and his regard for those within it, said FEI Dressage Director Ronan Murphy.He was generous with his knowledge, consistent in his fairness, and always took the time to support and encourage others, from senior officials to those just beginning their journey.Stephen was a true gentleman in every sense of the word. Fair, thoughtful and quietly wise, he never sought the spotlight, yet his presence and influence can be felt throughout our sport to this day.We have lost not only one of dressages greatest judges, but also one of its kindest and most respected figures.Everyone at Your Horse extends their heartfelt condolences to Stephens partner, Julian Sebire, his family, friends and colleagues.Main image by Julia Reinhart/Getty ImagesMore from Your HorseStephen Clarke: the Secret to Learning to Ride With an Even ContactDressage pro Emile Faurie explains how to stop a horse hollowing in transitionsThis is how to improve a horses poor toplineDressage judges explain how to improve your test scoreThe post He had a gift for building confidence: Dressage world mourns the passing of Stephen Clarke appeared first on Your Horse.

Sponsored content in collaboration with DengieHelping an overweight or fat horse lose weight takes time, dedication and a lot of careful management, and it is easy for some of those early good habits to slip once progress starts to show.However, reaching a healthier weight is only part of the picture regular monitoring and small day-to-day checks are just as important when it comes to keeping your horse on the right track.Here are 10 practical tips to help you manage your horses weight long-term. 1 Weigh your horse regularlyUsing a weigh tape every two weeks will help to identify the trajectory of your horses weight. If it starts to creep up, then you will be aware and able to act sooner.If you have the opportunity to weigh your horse on a weighbridge, use the weigh tape at the same time to calibrate how much difference in weight there is between the two. Weight loss takes time and it has been suggested that losing between 0.5-1% of bodyweight per week is safe and realistic. That means, if a 500kg horse has 100kg to lose, based on a loss of 0.5% of bodyweight per week it will take almost a year to achieve your target. Plot your horses weight on a graph to see how far theyve come and how your hard work has paid off.2 Fat score monthlyFat scoring is the most practical tool we have to identify if your horse still needs to lose weight or whether they have reached a healthy weight. However, changes in fat score can be frustratingly slow, so dont be disheartened if it is taking time for a change in fat score to be apparent.On the five-point fat scoring scale, it takes around 40-60kg of weight to be lost to reduce the score by one point, but if your horse was a 5+ on this scale, then it could take much more. Taking photos from the side and from behind can also help you step back and see changes in your horses weight over time when reviewing the pictures. 3 Grazing muzzlesIf you are using one, check the grazing muzzle hole(s) regularly and the grass length in the paddock. Over time with regular use, the size of the hole(s) in your horses grazing muzzle can increase with wear. A bigger hole means more to eat, so replace as necessary.As the summer progresses, and particularly if we have drought conditions, check the grass remains long enough to poke through the muzzle hole(s). Its important your horse still has something to eat, so consider what alternative options you have available if there isnt enough grass. 4 Strip grazingIf you strip graze, keep an eye on the grass growth in your strip and compare to an ungrazed area outside of the strip. If your horses isnt losing weight, and the grass is actively growing in the ungrazed area, it may mean that the size of your horses strip needs to be reduced to continue to encourage weight loss.Equally, if the grass is very sparse in the strip, and not actively growing in the ungrazed area, then additional forage will need to be provided to maintain digestive health.Plan ahead so that, if extra forage is needed, you dont undo your hard work by introducing higher-calorie options. Soaked hay, straw, or low-calorie forage replacers such as Dengie Meadow Lite with Herbs can all help maintain forage intake while supporting digestive and behavioural health. 5 Count the droppingsCount the number of droppings you are picking up. This can give an idea of whether your horses food intake is increasing or decreasing over a period of time. Keeping an eye on the consistency of droppings and knowing whats normal for your horse can also give you a window into their digestive health. 6 Check their diet is balancedIf you have made significant changes to your horses diet then their essential nutrient intake will also be significantly reduced. Possible changes include restricted or no grazing, feeding soaked hay, using more straw in their diet, all of which means the horses essential nutrient intake will be significantly reduced. This may mean they need a higher feeding rate than usual of products (supplements or balancers) to maintain a balanced diet or require a higher specification product.Work with an ENFAR-registered equine nutritionist or feed adviser who will be able to help advise the most appropriate products to ensure that your horses diet remains balanced. Check out the BETA Equine Nutritionist and Feed Adviser Register (ENFAR). 7 Weigh all forageWeigh supplementary conserved forage not only whats offered, but also whats left over.If you are providing your horses minimum forage requirement of 1.5% of their bodyweight on a dry matter basis daily in a bid to manage their weight and they arent eating it all, then they wont be consuming sufficient forage.Soaking hay in the summer months when the weather is hotter can make it less palatable and a shorter soaking time may be necessary. When introducing straw to the diet it can also take some getting used to. 8 Get forage testedAt this time of year, you are likely to be moving on to a new supply of conserved forage post-harvest. If you have a consistent supply, getting it tested with a basic NIR package can be useful to give an overview of its nutritional quality, including an estimate of digestible energy (DE), which tells us how calorific the forage is.If you know the forage is likely to supply more energy than your horse needs to maintain weight, then you can take additional measures to reduce the calorie intake from forage by soaking the hay, or by mixing straw through the hay or haylage ration.Straw should only be considered if your horse has good teeth and must be introduced gradually to the diet to allow time for the digestive system to adapt. 9 Keep a record of the work theyre doingKeep a diary of your horses exercise. It can be really helpful to track how much and what exercise they are doing, plus any notes about the sessions. Doing this can give you some good insight into your progress. If you notice that your horse is getting fitter and finding the work easier, then its a good sign your hard work is paying off. 10 Monitor insulin levelsIf your horse is overweight and has been diagnosed with equine metabolic syndrome (EMS), work with your vet to monitor insulin levels, as these can help to indicate how at risk of laminitis your horse is, and whether further dietary management changes are required. Main image ShutterstockRelated contentHow weight loss transformed my horse: four case studies you need to readFat horses: why the equine obesity epidemic matters now more than everHorse weight loss plan: 10 ways to lose those excess pounds *Sponsored*Dr David Marlin explains how to ride a horse so that they burn more caloriesThe post 10 top tips to help manage your horses weight *Ad feature* appeared first on Your Horse.

When the weather warms up, keeping horses cool and comfortable becomes a top priority. The right cooling products can make a big difference.

Football fever has taken hold at a Devon donkey charity, with residents practising their football skills ahead of Englands World Cup opening match this evening (Wednesday 17 June).Donkeys at The Donkey Sanctuary have been showing off their agility, balance and fancy hoofwork through football-themed enrichment activities at the charitys site in Sidmouth.The 2026 FIFA World Cup kicked off last week and is being hosted by three countries: Mexico, Canada and USA. England mens team will play Croatia in their first group match at 9pm this evening in Dallas, Texas.Residents at The Donkey Charity have been enjoying football-based enrichment activities.Natural talentDonkeys are naturally alert, sure-footed and great communicators, they thrive as part of a team and stay calm under pressure all qualities any footballer would be proud of.Enrichment activities are a vital part of the donkeys lives. They prevents boredom, ensure physical and mental stimulation and encourage them to play and interact with different objects as well as their environment.The Donkey Sanctuary was founded in 1969 by Dr Elisabeth Svendsen who was appalled by the state of the donkeys she saw at a market in Exeter. She started buying the donkeys who were in the worst condition and The Donkey Sanctuary was registered as a charity in 1973. Since then the charity has transformed the lives of millions of donkeys around the world.Images The Donkey Sanctuary.Related content from Your HorseArsenal socks a game changer for horses and donkeys at RedwingsCharity asks Senegal totake a stand against the donkey skin tradeOur donkeys are suffering: Concerns raised for the UKs working equines as summer approachesEquine charity launches petition to urge Amazon UK to ban sale of donkey skin products6 fascinating facts about donkeys as we celebrate World Donkey DayThe post Match of the Bray: residents at donkey charity hone their football skills appeared first on Your Horse.

Looking forward to the week ahead, Leo Lorimer is riding Touareg TMaestro Midnight Solstice. Shannon Lorimer is riding Liu-Jo VLSWe wish everyone who trains with us a very successful show and hope you all get the results you want and deserve!

BETA Level 3 Body Protector: Why Rider Safety Starts With Fit, Flexibility and ConfidenceQuick AnswerA BETA Level 3 body protector is designed to offer a high level of protection for horse riding, competitions, eventing and working with horses. The right body protector should sit securely, feel comfortable, allow natural movement and help protect the rider without restricting performance.The Premier Equine Action Flex Body Protector is engineered for riders who want trusted protection with a lightweight, flexible and flattering fit. Designed to move with the body, it combines BETA Level 3 certified protection, flexible sectioned panels, adjustable waist and shoulder fittings, breathable comfort and premium Premier Equine styling.Engineered to Protect, Designed For Movement.Safety Should Never Restrict PerformanceRiding demands trust, balance and quick reaction.Every rider knows that horses can move, turn, stop or spook before we have time to think. A moment can change quickly, whether you are schooling at home, jumping, hacking, competing or working around horses on the yard.That is why body protection matters.A good body protector should give the rider an added layer of safety without making them feel stiff, heavy or restricted. It should protect the torso, sit close to the body and allow the rider to move naturally in the saddle.Because safety equipment only works properly when riders feel confident wearing it.The Action Flex Body Protector has been developed around that exact need.Protection.Comfort.Movement.Confidence.What Does BETA Level 3 Mean?BETA Level 3 is recognised as the highest standard level commonly used for general horse riding, competitions, eventing and working with horses. BETA describes Level 3 as appropriate for general riding, competitions including eventing, and working with horses. It is intended to help reduce certain impact-related injuries, including minor bruising, soft tissue injuries and a limited number of rib fractures. The Premier Equine Action Flex Body Protector is BETA Level 3 certified, giving riders a trusted level of protection for a wide range of riding activities.It is important to be clear. No body protector can remove all risk from riding. Horses are powerful animals, and every discipline carries some level of risk.But good safety equipment helps riders prepare properly.And preparation gives confidence.Why This Matters NowRiders are becoming more aware of safety standards, correct fit and competition requirements.For example, British Eventing confirmed that from 1 January 2024, Level 3 body protectors used in British Eventing competition must meet the BETA 2018 standard. Riders should always check the current rules of their own governing body before competing. This means many riders are now reviewing older body protectors and asking the same questions:Is my body protector still suitable?Does it meet current standards?Does it fit correctly?Can I move properly in it?Would I actually want to wear it every day?The Action Flex Body Protector answers these needs with certified protection and a modern, flexible design made for real riding movement.Fit Is More Than ComfortA body protector should never feel loose, unstable or badly positioned.If it moves too much, it may not sit correctly when needed. If it is too tight, it can restrict breathing and movement. If it is too long, it may catch on the saddle. If it is too short, it may not offer the coverage expected.The right fit should feel:secure around the bodyclose without feeling restrictivecomfortable across the shouldersstable when ridingeasy to adjustflexible enough to move with youshaped enough to avoid unnecessary bulkThe Action Flex Body Protector features highly adjustable waist Velcro panels and shoulder straps, allowing riders to create a more precise fit.This matters because no two riders are built exactly the same. A body protector should work with the riders shape, not fight against it.Designed to Move With the RiderRiders do not sit still.They rise in trot.They fold over fences.They turn through the shoulder.They absorb movement through the seat and core.They adjust constantly to the horse underneath them.That is why flexibility is so important.The Action Flex Body Protector uses uniquely sectioned panels with flexible hinging, allowing it to contour naturally to the riders body. This helps create a close, comfortable fit while supporting freedom of movement.This is where the design becomes different.It is not only about protection.It is about wearable protection.A body protector that feels bulky or restrictive often ends up left in the tack room. A body protector that feels secure, flexible and comfortable becomes part of the riders routine.That is the point.Safety should feel natural enough to wear.Built for Impact. Made for Comfort.The Action Flex Body Protector uses advanced protective foams designed to provide high-impact protection while maintaining flexibility and comfort.This balance is key.Riders do not want safety equipment that looks smart but lacks substance. They also do not want protection that makes them ride stiffly or feel disconnected from the horse.The Action Flex brings both sides together:BETA Level 3 certified protectionHigh-impact foam technologyFlexible sectioned panel designAdjustable waist and shoulder fitBreathable comfortClose, flattering profilePremium Premier Equine brandingIt is built for riders who take safety seriously, but still expect comfort, style and performance.Who Should Wear a Body Protector?A body protector is particularly important for riders who take part in:eventingcross countryjumpinghackingschooling young horsesriding sharp or reactive horsestraining in open spacesyard work around unpredictable horsesreturning to riding after injury or time awaycompetitions where a body protector is requiredBut it is not only for competition riders.A fall can happen at home.A horse can spook on a hack.A jump session can change in one stride.A young horse can react without warning.A kick or knock can happen on the yard.Wearing a body protector is not about riding with fear.It is about riding prepared.Is a Body Protector Only for Eventing?No.Body protectors are strongly linked with eventing and cross country, but they are useful across many areas of horse riding.For some riders, it is part of competition preparation.For others, it is part of everyday safety.For many, it gives reassurance when riding a new, young, sharp or unpredictable horse.The Action Flex Body Protector has been designed for riders across disciplines. It gives protection without taking away the freedom of movement needed for confident riding.The Confidence to Ride ProperlyWhen safety equipment fits badly, it affects the rider.It can make the upper body stiff.It can restrict the fold over a fence.It can feel hot, heavy or distracting.It can stop the rider feeling connected.That is why comfort is not a luxury. It is part of performance.A rider who feels comfortable can focus on the horse.A rider who feels protected can ride with more confidence.A rider who can move freely can perform more naturally.The Action Flex Body Protector has been engineered to support that feeling.Secure enough to protect.Flexible enough to move.Comfortable enough to wear.What Makes the Action Flex Body Protector Different?The Premier Equine Action Flex Body Protector has been designed around one clear idea:Engineered to Protect, Designed For Movement.It offers the high level of protection riders expect, with the comfort and flexibility modern riders need.Key FeaturesBETA Level 3 CertifiedDesigned to meet a recognised safety standard for horse riding, competitions and working with horses.Flexible Sectioned PanelsThe body protector is shaped with uniquely sectioned panels and flexible hinging to help it contour naturally to the riders body.High-Impact ProtectionAdvanced foams are used to help absorb impact while maintaining flexibility and comfort.Adjustable Waist and Shoulder FitVelcro waist panels and shoulder straps allow riders to refine the fit for improved security and comfort.Breathable ComfortDesigned to support comfort during schooling, competition, hacking and everyday riding.Flattering ProfileA close, shaped fit helps reduce the bulky feel often associated with traditional body protectors.Premium Premier Equine FinishClean technical styling, finished with distinctive Premier Equine branding.How Should a Body Protector Fit?A body protector should feel close, stable and secure.When trying one on, check that:the shoulder straps sit flatthe waist panels fasten securelythe body protector does not twist or liftthe front does not press into the neckthe back does not catch on the saddleyou can breathe comfortablyyou can fold forward into a riding positionyou can move naturally through the shoulders and torsoCorrect fit is essential. Always check the product size guide before purchasing and choose the size that gives the safest, most secure fit.A body protector should feel protective, not restrictive.Body Protector vs Air JacketA body protector and an air jacket are not the same thing.A body protector gives passive protection. It is worn close to the body and does not need to activate.An air jacket is designed to inflate when triggered during a fall.Many riders choose to wear both, depending on their discipline, level and competition rules.British Riding Clubs current 2026 body protector guidance states that where a body protector is mandatory, air jackets are permitted but must be worn over a permitted Level 3 body protector. Riders should always check the latest rules for their own discipline or governing body before competing.For any competition, always check the latest rules before riding.When Should You Replace a Body Protector?Body protectors do not last forever.You should consider replacing yours if:it has been involved in a heavy fallthe foam feels compressed or damagedthe outer fabric is torn or wornit no longer fits correctlyit feels loose or unstableit no longer meets current competition requirementsit is uncomfortable enough that you avoid wearing itSafety equipment should give confidence. If your current body protector does not feel right, it may be time to upgrade.Why Riders Choose Action FlexThe Action Flex Body Protector is made for riders who want protection they can trust and comfort they can actually ride in.It is suitable for riders who want:a BETA Level 3 certified body protectorflexible movement in the saddlea secure adjustable fitlightweight comforthigh-impact protectiona flattering shapea smart, professional finishprotection for training, competition and everyday ridingIt is built for real riders, real movement and real confidence.Final ThoughtRiding will always carry risk. That is part of working with horses.But good safety equipment helps riders make better choices. It helps them prepare properly. It gives reassurance without taking away performance.The Premier Equine Action Flex Body Protector has been engineered for riders who demand serious protection, but still expect comfort, movement and style.It is protective.It is flexible.It is wearable.It is made for riders who want to feel ready.Engineered to Protect, Designed For Movement.Shop the Action Flex Body ProtectorDiscover the Action Flex Body Protector Black, designed with BETA Level 3 certified protection, flexible sectioned panels, adjustable waist and shoulder straps, breathable comfort and premium Premier Equine styling.Ride protected. Move freely.Shop Action Flex Body ProtectorFAQWhat is a BETA Level 3 body protector?A BETA Level 3 body protector is designed to offer a high level of protection for horse riding, competitions, eventing and working with horses. It is a recognised standard riders can look for when choosing protective riding equipment.Is a body protector required for eventing?Body protectors are commonly required for eventing and cross country. Riders should always check the latest rules from their own governing body before competing.Can I wear a body protector for everyday riding?Yes. Many riders wear body protectors for hacking, schooling, jumping, young horses, sharp horses and yard work. It can provide added protection and reassurance during everyday riding.How should a horse riding body protector fit?It should sit close to the body, fasten securely and allow natural breathing and movement. It should not twist, lift, gap or catch on the saddle.Is the Action Flex Body Protector suitable for different disciplines?Yes. The Action Flex Body Protector is designed for riders across disciplines, including schooling, hacking, jumping, eventing and competition use.Why is flexibility important in a body protector?Flexibility helps the rider move naturally. A body protector should support protection without making the rider feel stiff or restricted.Can a body protector prevent all injuries?No. No body protector can prevent every injury. A certified body protector can help reduce the severity of certain impact injuries, but riding always carries risk.When should I replace my body protector?You should replace your body protector if it has been damaged, involved in a heavy fall, no longer fits properly, feels unstable or does not meet the safety standard required for your riding or competition use.Can I wear an air jacket with a body protector?Yes, many riders wear both. Always check the current rules for your discipline or governing body, especially where body protectors are mandatory.What makes the Action Flex Body Protector different?The Action Flex Body Protector combines BETA Level 3 certified protection with flexible sectioned panels, adjustable fitting, breathable comfort and a close, flattering profile designed for movement.

The future of the Dartmoor Hill Pony is at risk according to campaigners, who say new rules could lead to up to 90% of the population being lost.Under proposed new grazing contracts, livestock numbers are drastically reduced and ponies will be included alongside other animals in the overall count.Campaigners fear commoners will be forced to remove their ponies to maximise the number of more commercially viable animals. More than 130,000 people have signed a petition against the new contracts, which could come into force by the end of 2026. The Friends of the Dartmoor Hill Pony (FDHP) said the change is likely to result in a cull to ensure the stock numbers are correct, and up to 90% of the ponies could be lost.They said the ponies were at risk of losing their place on the moor and ultimately becoming extinct.On 2 September, the FDHP will be delivering their petition to Downing Street, accompanied by some of the ponies they are working to protect.A Defra spokesman told Your Horse it recognises the value of the biodiversity embodied by the Dartmoor Hill Pony.In line with the Independent Review of Protected Site Management on Dartmoor, we are working with partners, to help ensure that we maintain numbers of semi-wild ponies on the Moor for generations to come, they said.Lead image of Dartmoor Hill Ponies. Credit: ShutterstockMore from Your HorseOur pick of fly masks and veils for horsesIs your horse is uncomfortable in his bit? Signs he is unhappy and how to solve itHow hacking can improve your competition performanceThe post Dartmoor Hill Ponies at risk: Petition gains traction as ponies prepare for Downing Street delivery appeared first on Your Horse.

A woman has been found guilty of causing a number of ponies to suffer following a welfare case at Lincoln Magistrates Court.Three ponies a piebald colt, a chestnut Shetland gelding and a bay miniature pony gelding suffered unnecessarily, while a fourth a grey miniature pony gelding did not have his needs met.The court heard that in February 2024, the RSPCA and Bransby Horses investigated the neglect of several horses at a location in Meadow Lane, North Scarle, after reports of welfare concerns were made to the charities.RSPCA Inspector Annette della-Porta, accompanied by officers from Bransby Horse Rescue, observed the horses and ponies in wet, muddy paddocks containing hazards. The team noted several horses owned by Beth Lane, 26, of Eagle Moor, were unwell, including a piebald pony who was very underweight, extremely uncoordinated and unsteady on his hind legs and a small chestnut colt who was extremely underweight and had severe hair loss across his loins.In total, four horses were removed by Lincolnshire Police and placed into the care of the charities. By April 2024, all four horses had begun to gain weight.They included a one-year-old bay colt, who was discovered with muscle wastage on his back and lice. He had sharp teeth and nasal discharge with frequent coughing, and wheezy lungs.Another pony, a one-year-old grey colt, also had muscle wastage on his back and lice. He had very long, overgrown feet, sharp teeth, and weakness when turning. When tested by the vet, his lungs were wheezy.A specialist equine vet who examined the horses concluded that three had been suffering unnecessarily between two and three weeks due to Lanes failure to manage parasites, and by failing to address their poor body condition. All four horses were so underweight that they had a body condition score of just one out of five.Lane was sentenced earlier this month (2 June) following a trial.She was given a 12 month Community Order and must attend 15 Rehabilitation Activity Requirement days, and received a 500 fine. Lane must also pay 10,000 in costs.Charities worked together to bring the ponies to safetyIt was incredibly sad for our team to see these ponies in such a poor state, said RSPCA Chief Inspector for Lincolnshire Rebecca Lowe after sentencing. Its essential that issues such as weight loss and parasites are adequately addressed, and the fact that these ponies have made a good recovery since being removed, shows that they werent given the appropriate care that they really needed.Positively, this investigation was a great example of the joint-work that goes on between welfare charities. Collaborating with equine welfare specialists like Bransby Horses forms a huge part of our rescue work and wed like to thank their team for the fantastic work theyve done in helping us with this case, and these ponies.The ponies are now in charity careThe four horses have made a good recovery under the care of the charities.At sentencing, the District Judge acknowledged that Lane acquired horses which were unwell and suffering but therefore became responsible for them, and she fell short of what was necessary which prolonged their suffering.In mitigation, the court was told that Lane reduced her horses to 12, keeping them between two sites only.Making progress after their rescueMore from Your HorseBest fly sprays for horses as tested by our team of owners and ridersTwo in-hand exercises to improve a horses core strengthCommon causes of coughing in horses and what to do about itNervous out hacking? This is how hypnotic language could boost your confidenceThe post Incredibly sad to see: Owner in court after emaciated ponies rescued appeared first on Your Horse.

A small robot designed to combat ragwort will begin field trials at farms and across land in Dorset this summer.The electrically powered platform, named Raggyby its creators, has arrived at Dorset Innovation Park, which has a growing reputation as a hub for testing uncrewed systems across land, air and sea, for final testing.Ragwort is a poisonous weed which can be deadly if eaten by horses, cattle and other animals, whether consumed fresh or dried. Usually it is pulled up by hand, which is labour intensive, costly and can pose risks to people and the environment. The aim of Raggy is to detect and remove ragwort while reducing chemical use and labour demands.Ragwort is poisonous to horses.The root of the problemRaggy uses advanced machine vision and connected technology, powered by the Qualcomm Dragonwing platform, to identify and remove ragwort mechanically at the root, said Jake Shaw-Sutton, director at Robotriks, a South West firm who helped develop the robot.This approach reduces the need for harmful chemicals, supports healthier soils and protects animals and habitat.Robotriksdeveloped Raggy in partnership with Dorset Council and long-time collaborators Telint and Neutral Networks using funding from Qualomm Incorporated through its Qualcomm for Good Initiative, which aims to enrich lives through programmes that strengthen economic and social development.Through Qualcomm for Good, we are proud to support Dorset Council and Robotriks in harnessing edge AI capabilities to modernise agriculture and solve real-world challenges for farmers and the environment, said Ben Timmons, senior director, Business Development of Qualcomm Technologies International, Ltd.Raggy is a powerful demonstration of whats possible with intelligent connected technologies.Reducing workloadsBetween field trials, Raggy will be maintained and stored at BattleLab collaboration centre at Dorset Innovation Park.The team of Rangers, who do a great job managing and maintaining Dorsets fantastic Country Parks, nature reserves and open spaces, spend many hours each year removing ragwort by hand, said Cllr Nick Ireland, leader of Dorset Council.We are delighted this autonomous and environmentally sensitive solution is being tested, evaluated and developed on our land here in Dorset.Main image Dorset Council, inset image Shutterstock.Related contentCould you identify these poisonous plants in your field?Photosensitisation in horses: causes, treatment and prevention tipsCommon horse skin conditions in picturesAtypical myopathy: important vet advice for every horse ownerThe post Meet Raggy: the robot designed to keep horses safe from ragwort appeared first on Your Horse.