A sports medicine specialist looks at what could cause a Western dressage horse to travel haunches-in during the right-lead canter.The post Crooked Lope: Training Issue or Lameness? appeared first on The Horse.

Can a horse go lame because of extreme hoof cracks and not being trimmed regularly?The post Horse Hoof Cracks and Lameness appeared first on The Horse.

Section Key Points Understanding the Costs of Horse Ownership Boarding: $150-$1000+ Feed: $7-$80 Farrier Services: $50-$240 Tack and Equipment: Up to $5,000 The Importance of DIY Projects Cost Savings Customization Skill Development Materials Needed for DIY Grass Reins High-quality rope or cordage Scissors or Sharp Knife Measuring Tape or Ruler Decorative Elements (Optional) Guide to Making DIY Grass Reins Step 1: Measure and Cut the Rope Step 2: Create the Ends (Burn, Fray Check, or Tape) Step 3: Add Decorative Elements (Optional) Step 4: Test and Adjust Additional Tips for Cost-Effective Horse Care Quality second-hand tack Bulk feed purchasing Regular maintenance: hoofs and dental care Consider pasture boarding Cost-effective equestrian apparel and supplements Conclusion Crafting DIY grass reins provides a cost-effective solution, saving money and enhancing skills for horse owners, making riding affordable. Crafting Cost-Effective DIY Grass Reins: A Guide to Keeping Your Equestrian Expenses in Check Owning a horse can truly be a fulfilling experience, providing companionship and joy like no other. However, it's no secret that equine ownership comes with a hefty price tag, involving costs that can indeed accumulate quickly. Instead of allowing these expenses to soar, why not learn to cut down on costs by engaging in DIY projects, such as crafting your own grass reins? Understanding the Costs of Horse Ownership Before embarking on your DIY journey, it's important to recognize the myriad costs associated with owning a horse: Boarding: Boarding costs can range from $150 for a basic pasture board to several thousand dollars for full-service stall board. These expenses can vary significantly based on location and amenities provided. Feed: Hay prices fluctuate, with square bales costing between $7 and $15, and round bales from $50 to $80. Proper nutrition is crucial to your horse's health, and feed costs can sum up quickly over time. Farrier Services: Keep your horses hooves healthy with regular trimming, which typically costs $50-$60. Shoeing takes it up a notch, ranging from $150 to $240. Tack and Equipment: High-quality saddles, bridles, and other tack are often crucial investments, with costs known to steep as high as $5,000 for premium saddles alone. For more insights on owning a horse, this comprehensive guide covers everything from feed to emergency vet visits. The Importance of DIY Projects Let's delve into why DIY grass reins are a noteworthy option when exploring cost-efficient equestrian accessories: Cost Savings: Its no secret that buying pre-made reins can be expensive. DIY reins allow you to save money on materials while letting creativity flow. Customization: With DIY projects, customization is at your fingertips; you can tailor the length, material, and style to fit your personal needs and preferences. Skill Development: Engaging in DIY projects hones valuable skills, which can translate to other aspects of horse care. Materials Needed for DIY Grass Reins To launch your DIY project, secure these materials: High-quality rope or cordage: Suitable materials include nylon, cotton, or any durable synthetic. These offer the reliability and strength that riding equipment demands. Scissors or Sharp Knife: Necessary for clean cutting. Measuring Tape or Ruler: Precision is key, to ensure your reins are of the desired length. Decorative Elements: Optional elements like tassels or braiding can enhance appearance if desired. Step-by-Step Guide to Making DIY Grass Reins Step 1: Measure and Cut the Rope Begin by determining the appropriate length for your reins. While 6-7 feet is common, it's vital to cater to your horse's specific needs and preferences. Mark your measurement and cut the rope using your knife or scissors. Step 2: Create the Ends Protect your work from fraying by choosing a method to seal the rope ends: Burning the Ends: With caution, burn the cut ends of the rope to seal them. Using a Fray Check Liquid: This product can effectively prevent fraying. Wrapping with Tape: Employing duct or electrical tape provides another efficient, easy seal. Step 3: Add Decorative Elements (Optional) If aesthetics matter to you, consider braiding or adding tassels to your reins. This step isn't mandatory but adds a personal flair. Step 4: Test and Adjust Once crafted, give your new reins a test drive. Ensure they fit comfortably in your hands and adjust as necessary. Consider checking out our Jodhpur Collection for riding gear that complements your DIY reins. Additional Tips for Cost-Effective Horse Care Maximize Your Tack and Equipment Budget Seeking good quality second-hand items? Consider estate sales, tack auctions, or reliable online marketplaces for high-quality yet affordable options. When you prefer new items, explore our Horse Riding Boot Collection for budget-friendly finds. Optimal Feed Cost Management Quantity matters when purchasing feedyou may find that buying in bulk greatly reduces costs. Make sure your horse also receives the proper nourishment to minimize waste. For insights on feed costs, refer to this helpful resource. Regular Maintenance Consistent hoof trimming and dental care ward off more serious veterinary problems. Regular farrier visits hovering between $50-$60 a session every six weeks is a wise preventative investment in your horse's health. Pasture Boarding Consideration With lower costs than stall boarding, pasture boarding could become the economical choice many horse owners seek, especially with costs dipping as low as $200 per month. Outfit with Cost-Effective Equestrian Apparel and Supplements Browse collections like our Stable Rugs and Turnout Rugs for practical, yet budget-friendly horse equipment. For nourishment, check out our Everyday Horse Vitamins & Supplements. Conclusion Crafting your DIY grass reins introduces both a gratifying and economical solution to managing your equestrian expenses. By recognizing the expansive costs linked to horse ownership and instigating **money-saving strategies**, you can relish in your passion for horseback riding without financial stressors Remember, every bit of saving countsDIY projects like creating your grass reins can yield substantial cost reductions over time. As you explore the wonderful realm of equestrian life, embrace DIY initiatives and develop smart shopping habits to maintain your horse-riding pursuits under budget.

The Ultimate Mucking-Out Championship: Who Will Win the "Worlds Best Sh*t Shoveler Award?"In the world of horse care, the real champions arent just the riders or trainersits the brave souls who face the daunting task of mucking out stalls. And now, it's time to celebrate those heroes with a friendly competition! Presenting the prestigious "Worlds Best Sh*t Shoveler Award", a coveted accolade that honors the unsung mucking masters.But how do you crown the best of the best when it comes to scooping horse droppings? Through a series of hilarious, skill-testing competitions, of course! So grab your shovels and your sense of humor as we break down the ultimate mucking-out championship events, and highlight the key aspects that every competitor must ace to earn this golden poop-scooping plaque!1. Speed Shoveling ShowdownNothing says top mucking-out pro like a race against time! In this event, competitors have to clean a stall in record time. The key is not just how quickly they scoop, but also attention to detailleaving no stray poop behind.Efficiency: How fast can the competitor muck out the entire stable without missing a single landmine?Cleanliness: Did they leave the stall spotless, or is there a suspicious pile hiding in the corner?2. The Poop Pyramid Precision ChallengeThis game is all about style and structure. The task? Build the perfect poop pyramid! Competitors need to create a stable and artistically pleasing mound of manure without letting it topple.Symmetry: How perfect is the poop pyramid? Are the edges smooth, or is it leaning like a manure-version of the Tower of Pisa?Stability: Will it stand tall or crumble under the pressure of perfection?3. Weightlifting of the Wheelbarrow WarriorsStrength matters when it comes to mucking out. In this event, participants must navigate a fully-loaded wheelbarrow through an obstacle course. From dodging hay bales to weaving around water buckets, its a test of both strength and agility.Balance and Strength: Can they lift and control the loaded wheelbarrow without spilling anything?Speed and Coordination: How quickly can they complete the course while keeping everything in the wheelbarrow?4. Tidy Straw Tossing TakedownA true mucking artist knows how to layer fresh straw like a pro. In this game, competitors must scatter fresh straw in the neatest, most uniform way possible. Extra points are given for flaircan they toss the straw like confetti?Evenness: Did they manage to spread the straw evenly, or are there patches that resemble a bald pasture?Flair: Points for artistic straw-tossing moves. Who says mucking out can't be graceful?5. The Precision Poop-Scoop TossThink you have the best aim in the barn? In this competition, participants must toss a perfectly scooped load of poop into a target. The closer the toss, the higher the points!Accuracy: Did the scoop hit the target, or is there a cleanup required now outside the stable?Form: Was the toss smooth and controlled, or did it look like a shovel explosion?What to Consider When Crowning the Best Sh*t ShovelerNow, while these games are all in good fun, there are important aspects of mucking out that every competitor should excel at in order to win the Worlds Best Sh*t Shoveler Award:Efficiency: Speed is key in mucking out, but not at the cost of thoroughness. The best muckers get the job done swiftly and without cutting corners.Cleanliness: Its all about the details. A great shoveler leaves the stable as fresh and clean as possible, with no sneaky droppings left behind.Technique: From how they wield the shovel to the way they pile the muck, technique plays a huge role in effective mucking out.Strength & Endurance: Mucking out isnt for the faint-hearted. It requires stamina and the ability to handle heavy loads, all while maintaining composure and balance.Creativity: Mucking might seem like a straightforward job, but a little creativity goes a long way. Whether its how they arrange the bedding or how they make mucking look fun, style points matter.The Award ItselfLets not forget about the prize! The "Worlds Best Sh*t Shoveler Award" is more than just an accoladeit's a symbol of pride. The wooden plaque, with its 4mm veneer plywood and eye-catching horse-dung motif, will forever remind the winner of their victory over the muck! You can purchase the award here and proudly display it for all to see.Whether you're dealing with the foulest fumes, dodging a stubborn manure mountain, or creating the neatest straw-bed, this competition is a fun and fitting way to crown the king or queen of mucking out. So, muckers, may your shovels be ever strong, your wheelbarrows sturdy, and your sense of humor unbreakable!

The Badminton Box Office will open for priority purchasers on Monday 6th January 2025 at 9am. At this time only those that have purchased tickets before will be able to purchase tickets for the 2025 event.For those that have not purchased tickets before the Box Office will open to the general public on Monday 13th January.For all ticket, camping and hospitality queries please contact our Box Office on Tel: +44 (0)1454 218375 or Email:boxoffice@badminton-horse.co.uk

Horse of the Year Show (HOYS) 2024 is finally here! If youre unable to make it to the event in person and want to keep on top of all the action, fans are able to tune into the shows live stream.Clip.MyHorse.TVis hosting full coverage of the event from Wednesday 9 Sunday 13 October via a paid-for service, which can beaccessed here.ClipMyHorse.TVPremium Annual membership can be tried for free for 30 days, which includes unlimited access to all broadcasts in full screen and high definition. A years membership costs 129.95 thereafter, and includes access to FEI TV.Beware of scammers sharing illegitimate links to show coverage on social media.Whats onThe events International Arena evening highlights are as follows:Wednesday 9 October18:20 Senior Newcomers Championship19:40 Display Musical Drive of the Heavy Horses19:50 Sport Horse Breeding of GB Working Hunter Championship20:05 LeMieux Pony Club Mounted Games LeMieux Cup20:30 Display The Musical Drive of The Kings Troop Royal Horse Artillery21:20 Events Through a Lens Talent Seekers including 7 Year Old ChampionshipThursday 10 October18:10 Dressage Future Elite Championship19:25 The Andrews Family Hack of the Year Championship19:40 Dressage Future Elite Championship Presentation19:50 LeMieux Pony Club Mounted Games Prince Philip Cup20:15 National Pony Society/Baileys Horse Feeds Mountain & MoorlandRidden Pony of the Year Championship20:40 Display The Musical Drive of The Kings Troop Royal Horse Artillery21:30 Redpost Equestrian Senior Foxhunter ChampionshipFriday 11 October17:35 STX-UK Pony Foxhunter Championship19:05 Osborne Refrigerators Double Harness Scurry (Round 2 Large)19:30 Catplant Group of Companies Ltd. Show Hunter Championship19:45 The Price Family Supreme In-Hand Championship20:00 LeMieux Pony Club Mounted Games Prince Philip Cup20:25 Display The Musical Drive of The Kings Troop Royal Horse Artillery21:15 Dallamires Stables Cup International ShowjumpingSaturday 12 October17:25 International Showjumping NAEC Stoneleigh Cup19:00 Osborne Refrigerators Double Harness Scurry of the Year Championship19:25 Display The Musical Drive of the Heavy Horses19:35 The Harrod and Coles Family Cob of the Year Championship19:50 British Show Pony Society Childrens Riding Pony of the Year Championship20:05 LeMieux Pony Club Mounted Games Prince Philip Cup20:30 Display The Musical Drive of The Kings Troop Royal Horse Artillery21:20 International Showjumping Ripon Select Foods PuissanceSunday 13 October18:25 Shire Horse of the Year Championship supported by the Shire Horse Society 18:45 LeMieux Pony Club Mounted Games Prince Philip Cup Final19:10 Display The Musical Drive of the Heavy Horses19:20 Supreme Products Supreme Pony of the Year Championship19:35 Supreme Products Supreme Horse of the Year Championship19:50 Display The Musical Drive of The Kings Troop Royal Horse Artillery20:45 International Showjumping Leading Showjumper of the YearFinaleTo view the full timetable of classes in both arenas,click here.The post Its HOYS week! Find out whats on and how to watch all the action appeared first on Your Horse.

It seems only yesterday that we were wrapping up Badminton 2024, having enjoyed a wonderful event, which included the attendance of HM The Queen, celebrating the 75th Anniversary, alongside a great competition with a very worthy winner in Caroline Powell. Our weekend of sunny weather was something to be envied by many events as the summer unrolled, it really was as though the weather gods came up trumps especially for the 75th Anniversary!I was extremely lucky to attend the Paris Olympics and witness the British eventing team (consisting of Tom McEwen, Laura Collett and Ros Canter) winning Gold. How appropriate that, in our 75th year, two members of the team were past Badminton winners in Laura and Ros and well done to the former for also taking the Bronze individual as, as many of you will know, the 10th Duke of Beaufort started Badminton Horse Trials in order to help the British do better at the Olympics!Now we are on the other side of Burghley and Blenheim and kicking on with the planning of the 2025 event. Having said this, we have not been sitting on our laurels through the summer. Lots of post Badminton 2024 meetings, to discuss what went well, not so well and where definite improvement is needed! The dry weather spells have given Andy Godwin and his team the opportunity to catch up with ground works that did not get done last autumn due to the exceptionally wet time. Eric Winter has the first draft of the cross-country course in hand, while Phil Cole and his team have scarified and overseeded the ground, which will help the grass get away quicker if we have another cold Spring.This month we will be inviting our established exhibitors to return in 2025. Andrew Tucker is busy contacting contractors and I will start to be in touch with our wonderful band of officials and volunteers.It goes without saying that we are incredibly grateful to Mars Equestrian for their continued support as our title sponsor.Heres to the beginnings of bringing together a spectacular Badminton 2025!!

After several painful interactions, I had promised myself that I would no longer provide vet services for Rose. She usually paid her bills on time and followed my instructions, but there was just something about her that always managed to ruin my day. My assistant Kelly didnt like Rose either, but she was generally good at hiding it.Archie NemesisUnfortunately, when a barn manager called about a lame horse a few weeks later, I was busy, and Kelly didnt realize whose horse it was and booked the appointment. When we figured out that it was Roses gelding Archie, Kelly flopped back on her seat and shook her fists at the ceiling.Why does the universe hate me? she wailed.You? Im the one who has to convince her that Im a qualified veterinarian every time I see her horse.Kelly did a perfect Rose imitation. Why didnt you know that my sweet boy was about to go lame? Dont you know I have a show coming up?I started laughing and Kelly continued. My vet back East had such an instinct for these things. Oh well, we cant all be like Dr. Perfect, can we?Second ChoiceThe next morning, we pulled up to the imposing front entrance of Roses barn and punched in our gate code. I pulled into a parking lot full of gleaming Teslas and Tahoes. We didnt have to look far for Rose in her pristine Dubarry barn coat, holding Archie and barking orders at a stall worker. My stethoscope and thermometer were already in my tote, and I added a hoof pick and hoof testers.Hi Rose! Kelly said brightly. Were sorry to hear that Archie isnt feeling well.Rose ignored her and addressed me. The sports medicine team from the university was in the area last week. Theyre really the best, but they wont be back for a month, so I had to call you.The instruments in my kit rattled slightly. Archie, who was badly behaved on a good day, snorted and pranced in place.You have to move slowly and quietly around horses! Rose barked. Theyre very sensitive animals.I gritted my teeth and forced my voice to sound pleasant. What seems to be the problem, Rose?Well, its obviously his right front leg. My trainer saw it from across the barn. We think its the shoulder, but youre the vet.Can you please walk him down the breezeway for me? I said briskly. Rose handed the lead rope to Kelly, and Archie immediately planted his feet and lifted his head, the whites of his eyes showing. Kelly clucked gently to him, but he refused to move.Horses respond best to confidence, said Rose. She snatched the rope from Kelly, whod grown up on a Thoroughbred farm and was an accomplished eventer. Watch what I do here.Rose faced her horse and yanked on the lead, but Archie was mad and raised his head even higher. Then he ran backwards, dragging Rose with him. Kelly and I exchanged looks as Rose scolded him, shook the rope, made weird purring sounds, then got a striped wand and waved it at the horse, who danced away in awkward half-circles.Abscessively WrongOK, you can take him now! Rose panted. Kelly snatched the rope and growled something in Archies ear. She walked off calmly, the big horse following behind her.Archie was absolutely limping on the right front. I gently palpated the leg, looking for heat or swelling, and the big horse tensed when I pressed on a spot on his coronet band. There was a thread of heat running down the outside quarter of the foot.I retrieved my hoof testers and identified a painful area around one of the nails of the shoe.Photo by Gina CioliWhen was he shod? I asked Rose, who made a face at me.Its not his foot. I already told you, its in the shoulder!I looked up at her. Rose, put your hand here and feel the swelling and heat in his coronet. Hes got an abscess, and this shoe may need to come off. Im going to pull this one nail and see if its the problem.Rose was silent as I returned to my truck and grabbed my farrier tools. Soon I was working the nail free from the hoof, and a gush of black-ish pus began to flow from the nail hole. The stench was terrible.Rose gasped. Hes bleeding! What did you do to him?Thats pus, Rose, said Kelly in exasperation. Theres an abscess in his foot.Rose huffed as I flushed the nail holes with a special mixture that I liked. I poulticed the foot, gave Archie a tetanus shot and some pain medicine, and instructed Rose to soak the foot daily. I decided to leave the shoe in place. From experience, I knew that hed be feeling a lot better in a few days.Hocus PoulticeKelly and I returned to recheck Archie on day five, and I decided not to comment on the big glob of poultice on his shoulder. Rose silently haltered Archie, and he walked off smoothly. The heat was gone from his foot and the pain and swelling had resolved.Hes a lot better today, I announced. The infection in the foot is resolving nicely.Yes, my trainer brought by some better poultice, and we also treated his shoulder after you left. Its amazing stuffyou should learn about it.Id had enough of Rose and her trainer, and I looked her right in the eye. Yes, its amazing how draining the pus out of the foot makes the shoulder feel better. You know, you could have put cow manure on that shoulder and Archie would have recovered.Rose blinked in awe. Well, then why didnt you do that instead of making his foot bleed?This edition of Vet Adventures about Rose appeared in the September 2023 issue of Horse Illustratedmagazine.Click here to subscribe!The post Vet Adventures: Smelling Like a Rose appeared first on Horse Illustrated Magazine.

Section Key Points Introduction Transforming an obese pony into a healthy one is both rewarding and challenging. Equine obesity is prevalent and requires effective weight management strategies. Understanding Equine Obesity Obesity poses health risks like laminitis and EMS. Around one third of UK horses are obese. Identifying Obesity in Horses Use Body Condition Scoring, weight tapes, and visible signs for identifying obesity. Breeds Prone to Obesity Welsh ponies, Morgans, Norwegian Fjords and others are predisposed due to "thrifty genes". The Risks of Obesity Includes health issues like laminitis, EMS, and osteoarthritis. Strategies for Weight Loss Diet Management: Control calorie intake, emphasize hay. Exercise: Increase activity, ensure consistency. Monitoring Progress: Regular measurements and visual inspections. Case Study: Turbos Journey Steps include dietary changes, exercise regimen, and consistent monitoring, leading to noticeable improvements. Conclusion Commitment to diet management, exercise, and monitoring can prevent health risks. Ensure vitality and well-being in ponies. Additional Resources Resources include seminars and articles providing insights into managing obesity, EMS, and strategies for weight management. From Feral to Fabulous: Transforming an Obese Pony into a Picture of HealthIntroductionThe journey of transforming an obese pony into a healthy, vibrant one is both rewarding and challenging. With equine obesity becoming increasingly prevalent, understanding effective strategies for weight management is essential. This article will delve into the various steps necessary to guide your pony towards optimal health, supported by expert insights and cutting-edge research.Understanding Equine ObesityEquine obesity is more than just a cosmetic concern; it poses significant health risks, including laminitis, Equine Metabolic Syndrome (EMS), and osteoarthritis. Research estimates that around one third of UK horses are considered obese, underscoring the importance of addressing this issue (source).Identifying Obesity in HorsesAccurately identifying obesity in horses is crucial for implementing successful weight loss strategies. Key indicators include: Body Condition Scoring: Evaluates fat deposits on areas like the neck, withers, back, and tail head. Weight Tapes: While not entirely precise, they offer a reliable means of tracking weight fluctuations over time. Visible Signs: Fat depositions may result in a "cresty" neck, puffy tail heads, and swollen mammary glands.Breeds Prone to ObesityCertain breeds are genetically predisposed to obesity and EMS, including Welsh ponies, Morgans, Norwegian Fjords, and others. These breeds often possess "thrifty genes" that served them well in natural settings but are less suitable in modern environments with sedentary lifestyles and abundant food.The Risks of ObesityObesity in horses can lead to severe health complications: Laminitis: A painful and potentially fatal condition linked to insulin resistance and excessive carbohydrates. EMS: Equine Metabolic Syndrome involves insulin dysregulation, complicating weight management (source). Osteoarthritis: Excess weight can strain joints, increasing the risk of osteoarthritis.Strategies for Weight LossTurning an obese pony into a healthy, fit one involves a multi-pronged approach:Diet Management Restrict Calorie Intake: Shift from free-access feeding to a controlled diet, particularly limiting access to nutrient-rich grass. Emphasize Hay: Use hay as the primary food source to prevent insulin spikes. Remember, "hay is for horses."Exercise Increase Activity: Encourage regular exercises like walking, hill climbing, and interval training to enhance insulin sensitivity. Consistency is Key: Regular, even mild exercise contributes significantly to overall health improvements.Monitoring Progress Regular Measurements: Continue using weight tapes and body condition scores to track progress diligently. Visual Inspections: Regularly assess visible fat deposits and overall condition.Case Study: Turbos JourneyAn inspiring success story is that of Turbo, a pony diagnosed with EMS after a laminitis scare. Here are the key steps taken: Dietary Changes: Transition to controlled access to grass fields and night-time stabling. Exercise Regimen: Introduce walking and variable terrain activities as part of his routine. Consistent Monitoring: Regular evaluation with weight tapes and visual checks ensured noticeable improvements.ConclusionThe path from a feral to a fabulous pony is paved with commitment, informed decisions, and a proactive approach to equine health. With careful diet management, exercise, and consistent monitoring, you can prevent dire health risks and help your pony thrive with vitality and well-being. For equine essentials that aid in this journey, explore our Jodhpur Collection, Horse Riding Boot Collection, and Everyday Horse Vitamins & Supplements.Additional Resources Cornell Equine Seminar: Dr. Gillian Perkins offers insights into managing obesity, EMS, and laminitis (source). The Equine Ethologist: Articles providing scientific backing for pony weight management strategies (source).Let Just Horse Riders be your partner in equine health by offering the best in Horse Fly Protection, Stable Rugs, and more.```html```