9 min read Last updated: January 2026 Cold-weather flare-ups and colic have your horse in pain and you wondering if paracetamol is an option? Heres how UK vets legally use it under the cascadetypical dosing is 20 mg/kg by mouth twice daily with 91% oral bioavailabilityso you can discuss a safe, effective plan with confidence. Quick Summary Short on time? Here are the key takeaways. Area: Legal use (Cascade) What To Do: Only use paracetamol on a veterinary prescription after a clinical assessment; ensure your horse is under your vets care. Why It Matters: Its unlicensed for horses in the UK and must meet cascade and RVP requirements. Common Mistake: Giving human paracetamol without vet approval. Area: Dosing & administration What To Do: Follow the prescribed dose (typically 20 mg/kg by mouth twice daily) and use the formulation your vet supplies; do not alter dose or frequency. Why It Matters: Correct dosing maximises efficacy and safety given high oral bioavailability. Common Mistake: Estimating tablet numbers yourself or mixing products to make up a dose. Area: Monitoring & side effects What To Do: Track appetite, demeanour, droppings and hydration; stop the drug and call your vet immediately if diarrhoea or sudden changes occur. Why It Matters: Early recognition of adverse signs prevents complications and guides safer pain control. Common Mistake: Waiting to see if gut signs settle before contacting your vet. Area: Passport & food status What To Do: Check Section IX now; sign your horse out of the food chain if appropriate and keep the passport accessible for treatment notes. Why It Matters: Food status determines if cascade medicines can be used and whether withdrawal periods apply. Common Mistake: Discovering an unsigned passport during an emergency and delaying pain relief. Area: Combining medicines What To Do: Give your vet a full list of all medicines, feeds and supplements; only add or stop products with veterinary guidance. Why It Matters: Combination therapy is common, but interactions and additive side effects must be managed. Common Mistake: Adding herbal or electrolyte supplements without clearing them with your vet. Area: When NSAIDs arent suitable What To Do: If NSAIDs cause gut or renal concerns, ask your vet whether paracetamol under the cascade is appropriate as an alternative or adjunct. Why It Matters: Paracetamol can provide analgesia while reducing NSAIDrelated colonic ulceration risk. Common Mistake: Persisting with ineffective or poorly tolerated NSAIDs without discussing options. Area: Immediate pain plan What To Do: Call your vet, gather vitals (heart rate, respiratory rate, temperature, mucous membranes), keep the horse warm and follow feeding advice while you wait. Why It Matters: Clear information and supportive care speed diagnosis and safe prescribing. Common Mistake: Offering feed during suspected colic or exercising without veterinary advice. Area: Storage & human safety What To Do: Store medicines securely, log doses, and keep a clean dosing kit; if a person takes more than two tablets accidentally, seek urgent medical help. Why It Matters: Safe storage prevents dosing errors and human toxicity. Common Mistake: Leaving tablets loose in the tack room or skipping records needed for passport and withdrawal tracking. In This Guide Whats the legal status of paracetamol for horses in the UK? When do vets prescribe paracetamol to horses? How should paracetamol be dosed and given to a horse? What risks and side effects should you watch for? How does your horses passport affect paracetamol use? Can paracetamol be used with other equine pain medicines? What should you do if your horse needs pain relief right now? Pain management can make or break your horses recovery especially through a damp, cold UK winter when colic and musculoskeletal flare-ups are more likely. If your vet mentions paracetamol, youll want the facts, fast, so you can make the safest, most effective plan.Key takeaway: In the UK, paracetamol is unlicensed for horses but vets can legally prescribe it under the cascade at 20mg/kg by mouth twice daily, with 91% oral bioavailability and proven shortterm safety in healthy adult ponies.Whats the legal status of paracetamol for horses in the UK?Paracetamol isnt licensed for equine use in the UK, but vets can prescribe it under the veterinary prescribing cascade after a clinical assessment. This requires the horse to be under the vets care and the decision to meet Routine Veterinary Practice (RVP) standards.Under Regulation (EU) 2019/6 Articles 112114 (the cascade), UK vets must prioritise authorised veterinary medicines first; if none are suitable or available, a human medicine such as paracetamol may be prescribed. The UK Government guidance is clear:When prescribing medicines under the cascade, you must first carry out a clinical assessment of the animal which must be under your care. You must also ensure that the evidence base for your prescribing decisions is robust and complies with Routine Veterinary Practice (RVP). GOV.UK: The cascadeIn practical terms, this means you must not give paracetamol without a veterinary prescription. The Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons (RCVS) undercare rules (updated 2023/24) also expect an examination (in person or appropriate remote consult) before prescribing a medicine like this. Horses declared as nonfood producing (see Passports & food chain status below) can receive unauthorised medicines under the cascade; otherwise, withdrawal periods apply.When do vets prescribe paracetamol to horses?Vets consider paracetamol when licensed NSAIDs are ineffective or contraindicated, and in some cases alongside other analgesics for severe pain. Its particularly useful where NSAID side effects are a concern.Evidence summarised by Mercer et al notes both efficacy and practical dosing:Although unlicensed, paracetamol is useful under the cascade in some equine patients that arent suited to licensed NSAID alternatives (20mg/kg twice daily by mouth). It has 91% oral bioavailability in horses and has been shown to be safe dosing twice daily for 14 days in healthy adult ponies. Vet TimesMany practices frame its use like this:Paracetamol is a painkiller drug that may be used alongside other painkiller medicines in horses with severe pain... used in horses where traditional painkillers are ineffective in controlling severe pain. Coach House VetsWhy might your vet reach for paracetamol? The most common NSAID adverse effect in horses is colonic ulceration (often presenting as diarrhoea and weight loss), with kidney issues less common. In the UK winter with higher colic risk due to wet weather, reduced turnout, and dietary shifts paracetamol can be an important option for NSAIDintolerant cases under veterinary supervision.How should paracetamol be dosed and given to a horse?The typical equine dose is 20mg/kg by mouth twice daily, prescribed and supervised by your vet; do not selfmedicate. Studies in healthy adult ponies show this regimen is safe for 14 days, and oral bioavailability is high (91%), so oral dosing is effective.Your vet will calculate the exact dose and advise on formulation. For illustration only, a 500kg horse at 20mg/kg equals 10,000mg (10g) per dose, twice daily. Because human tablets are commonly 500mg, thats a large number of tablets another reason dosing must be planned by your vet, who may source a suitable formulation under the cascade.Give exactly as directed and for the duration advised. Do not change dose or frequency without checking with your vet.Store securely, follow the label, and record administrations if your vet requires it for passport notes or withdrawal tracking.If a person accidentally ingests more than two tablets, seek urgent medical help immediately (paracetamol overdose can be serious in people).Quick tip: Keep a dedicated storage box for prescribed medicines in your tack room. Our customers often add a thermometer and syringe/measure to their grooming and firstaid essentials so dosing and monitoring are easy in an emergency.What risks and side effects should you watch for?Paracetamol is generally well tolerated shortterm in healthy adult ponies, but you must monitor your horse and report any concerns to your vet immediately. Stop the medicine and call your vet if you notice diarrhoea, loss of appetite, depression, or any sudden change in demeanour.Context matters: with NSAIDs, the most common adverse effect is colonic ulceration leading to diarrhoea and weight loss, and kidney problems are less common (Vet Times). Paracetamol can help avoid NSAIDrelated gut issues in selected cases, but any new digestive sign still warrants swift veterinary input. For chronic pain management, your vet may choose to monitor blood proteins and renal parameters periodically.Practical pointers:Report all concurrent medicines and supplements to your vet to avoid interactions.Watch droppings, appetite, and hydration closely especially in cold weather when horses often drink less.If diarrhoea occurs on any painkiller, stop treatment and contact your practice; do not wait to see if it settles.Pro tip: Once your vet is happy, simple support like welltimed electrolytes and digestive supplements may help maintain hydration and gut comfort through winter routines. Always clear new supplements with your vet when pain medicines are on board.How does your horses passport affect paracetamol use?If Section IX of the passport is signed, your horse is declared nonfood producing and can be treated under the cascade with unauthorised medicines like paracetamol. If Section IX is unsigned, the horse is treated as foodproducing and your vet must set an appropriate withdrawal period.This is essential legal housekeeping. Horses not signed out of the food chain must follow foodanimal rules; vets then set withdrawal periods for cascade medicines (a statutory six months applies for certain essential substances). To streamline care in an emergency, make sure Section IX is completed in line with your intentions and keep the passport accessible on the yard. Your vet will advise if any treatment needs to be recorded in the passport itself.Quick tip: Review your passport status at the start of winter and before show season travel. It takes seconds and can save hours of delay if emergency pain relief is needed fast.Comfort counts while you and your vet put a plan in place. A wellfitting rug keeps muscles warm and reduces shivering stress; choose breathable layers like winter turnout rugs for wet days or stable rugs when boxresting.Can paracetamol be used with other equine pain medicines?Yes vets often use paracetamol alongside other analgesics, but you must tell your vet about every medicine and supplement your horse is receiving. Do not add or remove anything without veterinary guidance.Combination therapy can target different pain pathways in severe cases, or allow lower doses of NSAIDs where gut risk is a concern. Your vet will balance benefits with potential interactions and monitor for additive side effects. This includes considering nonmedicines such as herbal products and nutraceuticals, so share full details of any supplements or feed changes.Handling and movement support also matter during recovery. Consider protective support such as supportive bandages and boots if your vet recommends controlled exercise.What should you do if your horse needs pain relief right now?Call your vet first; do not give paracetamol without a prescription. While you wait, make your horse comfortable and gather the information your vet will want.Phone your vet and describe signs clearly (onset, severity, triggers, any recent medicines).Check your horses passport status (Section IX) and have it ready if the vet prescribes under the cascade.Record vital signs: heart rate, respiratory rate, mucous membrane colour, and temperature. A digital thermometer in your yard kit is invaluable; many riders keep one with their yard firstaid and grooming kit.Keep your horse warm and dry without overheating. Layer appropriately with breathable turnout rugs for wet weather or a cosy stable rug if boxresting.Follow your vets feeding advice; for colic suspicion, do not offer feed until advised. Encourage small sips of fresh water if allowed.Prepare for medication: a clean bucket, dosing syringe, and something to help acceptance (a slice of soaked feed or a couple of lowsugar treats if your vet approves).If you must hack carefully to keep a restless horse moving on vet advice, make safety visible with hivis rider gear during lowlight winter hours.At Just Horse Riders, we recommend writing your dosing schedule on paper and setting phone reminders the moment a plan is agreed. Consistency reduces relapse risk and helps your vet interpret progress.FAQsIs paracetamol licensed for horses in the UK?No. Its unlicensed, but a UKregistered vet can prescribe it under the cascade after assessing your horse and confirming its under their care. See GOV.UK guidance on the cascade.What dose do horses receive?Typical dosing is 20mg/kg by mouth twice daily, prescribed by your vet. Research reports 91% oral bioavailability and safety for 14 days in healthy adult ponies (see Vet Times).Can I give my horse human paracetamol without a vet?No. Its illegal to give unauthorised medicines like paracetamol without a veterinary prescription under the cascade, and it risks breaching horse passport rules. Your vet must assess and prescribe first (see Coach House Vets guidance and GOV.UK).What if my horse develops diarrhoea on painkillers?Call your vet immediately and stop the medicine unless your vet tells you otherwise. Diarrhoea is a common NSAIDrelated sign due to colonic ulceration; your vet may adjust the plan and consider alternatives like paracetamol under the cascade (see Vet Times).Can paracetamol be combined with other equine medicines?Yes, vets often use it alongside other analgesics for severe pain. Always tell your vet about every medicine, feed change, and supplement to avoid interactions.What if my horse is not signed out of the food chain?If Section IX is unsigned, your horse is treated as foodproducing. Your vet must set a withdrawal period for cascade medicines; some essential substances carry a statutory sixmonth withdrawal (see GOV.UK).How should I store paracetamol, and what about accidental human ingestion?Store securely as labelled by your vet, keep a dosing log, and prevent access by children or animals. If a person accidentally takes more than two tablets, seek urgent medical help immediately.Need winterready kit while you and your vet finetune pain management? Explore breathable layers from WeatherBeeta rugs or comfort upgrades from LeMieux, and keep hydration and gut comfort on track with carefully chosen supplements approved by your vet.Bottom line: work handinglove with your vet. Used correctly under the cascade, paracetamol can be a valuable addition to your equine pain toolbox safely, legally, and with your horses welfare front and centre. Shop the Essentials Everything mentioned in this guide, ready to browse. Shop SupplementsShop Turnout RugsShop Stable RugsShop Grooming KitShop Boots & Bandages

11 min read Last updated: January 2026 Loaning a horse is a brilliant way to ride regularly without full ownershipbut it can expose you to costly legal risk. Learn to protect yourself with keeper status under the Animals Act 1971, 30m public liability (BHS Gold), and a solicitordrafted loan agreement that fixes costs, a 30day notice, and emergency authority. Quick Summary Short on time? Here are the key takeaways. Area: Keeper Liability What To Do: Before the loan starts, arrange your own public liability insurance and tell the insurer the horse is on loan. Keep proof of cover and the signed agreement together. Why It Matters: You may be strictly liable under the Animals Act 1971 for thirdparty injury or property damage. Common Mistake: Assuming the owners or yards insurance automatically covers the loanee. Area: Loan Agreement What To Do: Use a professionally drafted contract setting duties, notice, termination and governing law; get it signed before the horse leaves. Take legal advice on any liability limits (you cannot exclude death/personal injury caused by negligence). Why It Matters: Clear, enforceable terms prevent disputes and protect welfare. Common Mistake: Relying on a vague template or verbal promises. Area: Bills & Payments What To Do: Specify who pays livery, farrier, routine and emergency vets, dentistry, worming, vaccinations and insurance, with amounts and due dates. Keep a shared monthly ledger. Why It Matters: Cost clarity avoids unpaid bills and surprise charges. Common Mistake: Leaving responsibilities unstated so the loanee is chased by default. Area: Condition Record What To Do: Create a dated photo record of the horse and tack, list existing injuries and vices, and inventory all kit with condition and value. Consider a preloan vet report for highervalue horses. Why It Matters: Evidence distinguishes fair wearandtear from damage if disputes arise. Common Mistake: Handing over without photos, inventory or independent condition notes. Area: Emergency Authority What To Do: Name the vet, set spending limits, and define who can authorise treatment and euthanasia if the owner cant be reached. Share contacts and keep the agreement accessible. Why It Matters: Fast, authorised decisions reduce risk and legal friction in crises. Common Mistake: Leaving emergency decisions to chance or unreachable parties. Area: Transport Terms What To Do: State who may transport the horse, when professionals are required, and what insurance applies to trailer/horsebox and the horse in transit. Confirm cover before any journey. Why It Matters: Transit incidents are common and not always covered by public liability. Common Mistake: Assuming vehicle or yard policies cover horse and kit in transit. Area: Care & Use What To Do: Document feed, turnout, shoeing, exercise plan and any activity limits (e.g. no hunting or jump height). Include tack maintenance, wearandtear definitions and replacement rules. Why It Matters: Agreed routines protect welfare and manage risk. Common Mistake: Omitting use restrictions and tack rules, leading to welfare or cost disputes. Area: CrossBorder Terms What To Do: Specify governing law and jurisdiction, ensure insurance extends to the destination, and set repatriation and transport requirements. Seek solicitor advice for highvalue horses. Why It Matters: Crossborder enforcement and liability differ and can be expensive to resolve. Common Mistake: Failing to address jurisdiction and insurance when the horse travels abroad. In This Guide What liability do you take on when you loan or share a horse? Do you need insurance to loan a horse? What must a UK horse loan agreement include? How do you avoid disputes over bills, wearandtear and transport damage? Who pays livery and what if bills go unpaid? How does the Animals Act 1971 and negligence law affect you? Crossborder loans and highvalue horses: what extra terms should you add? The practical kit and admin checklist before handover Loaning a horse can be the perfect way to ride regularly without full ownership but it also hands you real legal and financial responsibilities. Understanding keeper liability, insurance and a watertight loan agreement will protect you, the owner, and most importantly, the horse.Key takeaway: If youre the loanee, you are legally the horses keeper and can be strictly liable for thirdparty damage under the Animals Act 1971. Public liability insurance and a professionally drafted loan agreement are nonnegotiable.What liability do you take on when you loan or share a horse?As the loanee, you are classed as the horses keeper and can be held liable for damage the horse causes to other people or property under the Animals Act 1971. The owner (loaner) may also remain liable, so both parties need clarity and insurance.In UK law, a horses keeper is the person in day-to-day control typically the loanee during the loan period. That status brings strict liability for certain types of damage regardless of fault, which is why even careful, competent riders still need robust public liability cover. As equine law specialist Caroline Bowler notes, every rider must act reasonably to prevent foreseeable harm, but strict liability can still apply to the keeper when horses behave unpredictably.Every rider... owes a duty to act reasonably to prevent foreseeable harm... The Animals Act 1971 also applies strict liability to the keeper of a horse. Caroline Bowler, Equine Law Solicitor, Rothera Bray SolicitorsPractically, this means if your loan horse kicks a car, injures a dog out hacking, or bolts into a cyclist, claims may come to you. Owners can also be named, so both parties should agree responsibilities in writing and confirm insurance before the loan begins.Do you need insurance to loan a horse?Yes public liability insurance is essential for loanees, and the British Horse Societys Gold membership provides 30 million cover plus a legal helpline. Owners should require proof of the loanees cover before handing over the horse.Public liability responds to thirdparty injury or property damage caused by the horse. Its the protection you hope youll never use, but its critical when you do. The British Horse Society (BHS) is unequivocal:Public Liability Insurance is essential. As a loanee, you are the horses keeper and may therefore be responsible for any damage that the horse causes to a third partys person and/or property. British Horse SocietyBHS Gold membership includes 30 million public liability cover and access to a free legal helpline for loan disputes invaluable if livery or vet bills are contested. Petplan Equine reinforces the keeper point too:The loanee will be classed as the horses keeper and may therefore be liable for any damage that the horse causes to any third party's person and/or property. Petplan EquineQuick tip: Insurance doesnt transfer with the horse. The loanee should arrange their own public liability (and consider rider accident cover), notify the insurer that the horse is on loan, and provide a copy of the signed loan agreement to the insurer.For personal safety every time you ride, pair your insurance with the right protective kit a properly fitted riding helmet and highvisibility layers for dark UK evenings from our rider hivis range.What must a UK horse loan agreement include?A UK horse loan agreement must clearly allocate responsibility for livery, farrier, veterinary fees, insurance and vaccinations, plus set notice periods and welfare clauses for early termination. It should be professionally drafted, especially where liability is limited.Most loan disputes come down to unclear terms. Avoid them by setting out the essentials in plain English and signing before the horse leaves the owners care. Equine solicitors are clear:It is essential to have a professionally written horse loan agreement in place... Any such exclusion clauses [on liability] should be drafted by a solicitor to ensure they are legally binding. HRJ Foreman LawsAt minimum, include:Parties and horse identification: full details, passport number, microchip, age, known vices.Financial responsibilities: who pays livery (and rate), shoes/trimming, dentistry, routine and emergency vet fees, worming, vaccinations and insurance.Care standards: feeding, turnout routine, clipping, rugging guidelines, exercise program and restrictions (e.g. no hunting, no jumping over X height).Use of tack and equipment: whats loaned with the horse, expected maintenance, wearandtear definitions, and replacement rules for loss or damage.Emergency authority: who authorises treatment and spending limits when the owner cant be reached, including euthanasia decisions.Transport and shows: who can transport the horse, horsebox/trailer insurance requirements, and liability for damage during transit.Duration and termination: fixed term or rolling, notice period (e.g. 30 days) and welfare/urgent termination clauses (e.g. nonpayment, neglect, unsafe handling).Governing law and jurisdiction: England & Wales unless agreed otherwise, particularly important for crossborder loans to Ireland.Pro tip: Document the horses condition at handover. Take dated photos, list existing scars, and record tack condition. For highvalue horses, commission a preloan vet report so both parties can rely on independent evidence later.How do you avoid disputes over bills, wearandtear and transport damage?Write it down, photograph it and insure it: record the horse and tack condition at the start, define wearandtear, agree emergency vet decisionmaking, and set transport rules with required horsebox insurance.Common flashpoints are unsurprising vets, livery, and tack. Vets may pursue the loanee as the daytoday carer when bills go unpaid, so make costs and authorisation explicit. Define whats normal wear (e.g. rug rubs, minor scuffs) versus damage (e.g. broken leather, ripped rugs) and how replacement cost is shared by age/condition of the item. Specify how rugs should be used across UK seasons; in a wet British winter, agree weights and spares to prevent arguments about ruined rugs. You can reduce wearandtear and stay comfortable with quality winter turnout rugs and cosy stable rugs that fit correctly.If the horse will travel, add a transport clause: who can drive, whether a professional transporter is required, what insurance applies to the vehicle and the horse in transit, and who pays for any damage to a trailer or horsebox. Horsebox policies are separate to public liability and should be checked before the first trip.Quick tip: Keep shared documents in a cloud folder loan agreement, insurance certificates, vaccination cards, shoeing schedules and vet notes so both parties can access them instantly in an emergency.Who pays livery and what if bills go unpaid?The loan agreement must state who pays livery and on what schedule; unpaid livery is a civil matter and should be addressed under the agreements breach and termination clauses. As the daily keeper, the loanee often faces invoices by default if responsibilities arent defined.State the yard, livery type (DIY, part, full), monthly amount, due date and what happens if livery increases midloan. Add a clause allowing the owner to terminate immediately for nonpayment or welfare concerns, and a practical handback process (e.g. horse returned within 7 days, all kit checked against the inventory, final bills settled before collection). If you have BHS Gold membership, you can access their legal helpline for guidance on enforcing the agreement or responding to a breach.At Just Horse Riders, we recommend agreeing a simple monthly ledger for transparency: livery, farrier, insurance, routine vet costs, and any adhoc expenses. It keeps both sides aligned and prevents surprises, especially around winter when costs can spike due to extra forage, shoeing changes, and increased rug washing. Keep the horse comfortable and minimise rubs and vet visits by using wellfitting horse boots and bandages for schooling and turnout when appropriate, and maintaining regular hoof and skin care with our grooming essentials.How does the Animals Act 1971 and negligence law affect you?The Animals Act 1971 imposes strict liability on the horses keeper for certain damage, and UK negligence law requires you to act reasonably to prevent foreseeable harm; you cannot exclude liability for death or personal injury caused by negligence.In practice, the Act can make you liable even when youve done little wrong horses are large, sometimes reactive animals. Thats why prudent precautions matter: safe turnout, sensible hacking routes, and appropriate supervision for novice riders. Any attempt to exclude liability must be carefully drafted; clauses that try to exclude liability for death or personal injury caused by negligence are generally unenforceable. Equine solicitors strongly advise getting bespoke drafting where liability limits are included.This is also where the BHS, Petplan Equine and specialist firms like HRJ Foreman Laws all align: insure adequately, draft professionally, ride responsibly, and keep good records. Combine those with routine preventative care think joint support and hoof supplements where advised by your vet to reduce risk. Explore proven options in our horse supplements collection, including trusted names like NAF for support during harder work or colder months.Crossborder loans and highvalue horses: what extra terms should you add?Specify governing law and jurisdiction (England & Wales) for crossborder loans, especially to Ireland, and take solicitor advice for highvalue horses to ensure liability limits and enforcement are robust.When a horse steps off UK soil, you add complexity. Make it explicit which countrys law governs the agreement and which courts have jurisdiction. Require the loanees insurance to extend to the destination country and cover transport. For valuable horses, invest in a solicitordrafted agreement that covers liability caps, security deposits, professional transport only, competition restrictions, and rapid repatriation if welfare or payment concerns arise. This is not the place for a DIY template.Pro tip: Agree a preloan trial period on the owners yard with clear riding limits and a simple nofault return clause if either party isnt happy. Its the cheapest way to avoid the wrong match.The practical kit and admin checklist before handoverBefore the loan starts, exchange proof of public liability insurance, sign the full loan agreement, complete a photographic condition report, agree emergency protocols, and check all essential kit fits and is listed in an inventory.Heres a concise preloan checklist you can copy:Insurance: loanees public liability in place; owners policy notified; copies exchanged; insurer given the loan agreement.Agreement: signed by both parties; duration, notice and welfare termination set; governing law included.Money: who pays livery, farrier, routine/emergency vet, dentistry, worming, vaccinations; when payments are due.Care plan: feed, turnout, exercise, clipping, shoeing; restrictions (e.g. hunting or jumping limits).Emergency: vet contact, spending authority, euthanasia decision process if unreachable.Condition record: photos of horse and tack; any vices or existing injuries noted; optional preloan vet report for higher value or performance horses.Transport: who may transport, insurance confirmed, professional transporter if required.Trial: defined period and return mechanism before the full loan goes live.Kit inventory: rugs, boots, bridle, saddle, numnahs, grooming kit, with condition and estimated value.Round out your kit so both parties are confident about welfare and wearandtear. For UK winters and shoulder seasons, choose durable, wellfitting turnout rugs and reliable stable rugs from brands our customers love. Keep your safety front and centre with a certified riding helmet and brighterthanbright hivis layers for dull afternoons. And dont forget the daytoday care: protective boots and bandages for work, a solid grooming kit for skin and coat health, and targeted supplements during changes in workload or weather.Quick tip: Agree a spares list for rugs and boots. Having backups reduces damage from illfitting substitutes and avoids lastminute spending disputes.ConclusionLoaning can be a brilliant partnership when you pair the right horse with the right rider and back it up with the right paperwork and protection. Nail down the agreement, verify insurance, document the handover, and ride with care. If you need support choosing practical kit to minimise wearandtear and keep you safe, the Just Horse Riders team is here to help.FAQsCan a loanee be held liable for damage their loaned horse causes to a third party?Yes. As the horses keeper, the loanee is potentially liable under the Animals Act 1971 for thirdparty injury or property damage. Public liability insurance is essential. See guidance from the BHS and Petplan Equine.Who pays for livery, farrier and vet bills if the loan agreement doesnt say?Disputes are common when costs arent allocated in writing; vets may pursue the loanee as the daytoday carer. Avoid this by specifying responsibilities clearly before the loan starts and keeping a monthly ledger of payments.Can a loan agreement exclude liability for death or personal injury caused by negligence?No. Clauses excluding liability for death or personal injury due to negligence are generally unenforceable. Any liabilitylimiting clauses should be drafted by a solicitor to ensure theyre legally robust; see HRJ Foreman Laws.Does the horses existing insurance transfer to the loanee?No. The loanee must arrange their own public liability (and consider rider accident cover) and provide the insurer with the loan agreement. Owners should also notify their insurer of the loan arrangement.How should we handle emergency veterinary decisions?State in the agreement who can authorise treatment, any spending limits, contact protocols, and the process for urgent decisions if the owner is unreachable. Keep the vets details and the agreement readily accessible.What about transport and horsebox damage during a loan?Include a transport clause specifying who may transport the horse, required horsebox/trailer insurance, and who pays for damage in transit. Consider requiring professional transport for competitions or long journeys.Can I loan a horse to Ireland and still rely on English law?Yes, if your agreement specifies governing law and jurisdiction as England & Wales, but take solicitor advice for crossborder enforceability. Ensure insurance covers travel and activities in Ireland. Shop the Essentials Everything mentioned in this guide, ready to browse. Shop Riding HelmetsShop Hi-Vis GearShop Turnout RugsShop Stable RugsShop Boots & Bandages

Do Horses Need Sweet Feeds for Energy? The Facts Behind Equine NutritionIts a common sight: brightly coloured bags of sweet, molassed horse feeds promising extra energy and sparkle. Many owners believe that horses need sugary mixes for stamina, performance, or simply to keep weight onespecially in winter. But is it really true?The Sweet Feed MythThe idea that horses need sugar for energy has been around for decades. Its easy to see why: horses love sweet feeds, and the instant burst of energy after eating them can be appealing. However, the truth is more nuancedand for most horses, sweet feeds are unnecessary and can even be harmful.How Horses Really Use EnergyHorses are designed to graze on high-fibre foragegrass, hay, and chaff. Their digestive systems are built for slow, steady energy release from fibre, not sugar. While sugar and starch do provide quick energy, theyre only needed in large amounts by horses in intense work (racehorses, eventers, or those with very high calorie needs).For the vast majorityleisure horses, ponies, veterans, and native breedsexcess sugar can cause problems:Weight gain and obesityLaminitis risk (especially in ponies and cobs)Fizzy, unpredictable behaviourUpset digestive balanceExpert GuidanceOrganisations like the British Horse Society and World Horse Welfare recommend basing the diet on forage, with hard feeds only added if needed for condition or workload. If extra calories are required, look for high-fibre, low-sugar options or oil-based feeds, which provide slow-release energy without the risks.Better Choices for Equine HealthAlways start with ad-lib forage (hay, haylage, grass)Choose high-fibre cubes, chaffs, or beet pulp for extra caloriesUse supplements (including oil) like linseed for safe, sustained energyReserve sweet feeds for horses with genuine high energy demandsand only under expert adviceChestnut Mills Equine Nutrition RangeWe stock a carefully selected range of horse feeds and balancers to suit every type of horsefrom good doers to those needing a little extra support. Explore our Horse Cubes, Mixes & Mash, Horse Feed Balancers, High-Fibre Feeds, and Supplements for healthier, practical alternatives.Not sure whats right for your horse? Just askwere here to help with honest, expert advice. info@chestnutmill.co.uk | 01256 578011The Bottom LineSweet feeds arent a magic bullet for energyin fact, for most horses, theyre best avoided. Stick to forage, supplement with fibre, and choose feeds that match your horses real needs. Your horse (and their waistline) will thank you!

Nominations are open for the 2026 Equestrian Business Awards in association with Equinnect, a series of accolades whichrecognise the outstanding contributions and achievements of businesses and professionals across the equestrian world.Last years awards received over 16,000 nominations across 20 categories and culminated in a sold-out awards event in Peterborough in November. Four finalists were shortlisted for each award and interviewed by a judging panel. The winners were revealed at a ceremony atthe Holiday Inn Peterborough West.Katy Wright established the Equestrian Business Awards five years ago as a way of celebrating equine businesses and professionals. Award categories include Retailer of the Year, Riding School of the Year and Equestrian Tech of the Year.The awards help recognise excellence, raise industry standards, and shine a national spotlight on those making a real difference.Recent winnersLast years winners included Abbotts View Livery (Livery Yard of the Year), Aster Horses (Event Venue of the Year) and Pocket Nook Equine Vets (Vet Practice of the Year). Harry Hall were presented with the Lifetime Achievement Award. For a full list of the 2025 winners click here.The Equestrian Business Awards celebrate equestrian professionals who deliver exceptional care, expertise, professionalism, and innovation across the sector. The awards are supported this year by BAEDT, Cowgirl Like Me Media, Equicantis, Westgate Labs, Equine K Taping UK, and Downwest Embroidery.Anyone can nominate and be nominated. Nominations close on Wednesday 1 April and the finalists will be announced at the end of May.For a full list of categories and to nominate someone for an awardclick here.Main image of Lifetime Achievement Award winners Harry Hall Equestrian Business Awards.Related contentEssential horse worming schedule and management tips from a vetPoisonous plants for horses: in pictures9 essential things to get right when youre taking care of a horseThe post Vote now: Nominations open for 2026 Equestrian Business Awards appeared first on Your Horse.

11 min read Last updated: January 2026 Road hacking should feel calm, not tenseespecially with todays busier lanes and unpredictable drivers. This friendly guide shows you exactly how to ride and be passed safely under the updated Highway Code, including the Dead Slow rule: drivers must pass at 10mph with 2m space, plus hivis and routeplanning tips for calmer, safer hacks. Quick Summary Short on time? Here are the key takeaways. Area: Dead Slow Rule What To Do: Ask drivers to pass at no more than 10mph and only when they can give at least 2 metres; use a clear palm-down signal to slow/stop and wave on only when safe. Why It Matters: Prevents close, fast passes that can spook or injure horse and rider. Common Mistake: Allowing a squeeze-past when there isnt 2 metres of space. Area: Hi-vis & LEDs What To Do: Wear a hi-vis tabard or jacket and fit leg bands, reflective gear and white/red LEDs for 360-degree coverage; clean reflective areas before riding. Why It Matters: Maximises visibility in low sun, rain and darkness so drivers see you sooner. Common Mistake: Relying on dull, muddy kit or a single light. Area: Protective Kit What To Do: Use a certified helmet and a Level 3 BETA 2018 body protector; replace your helmet after any impact. Why It Matters: Proven impact protection reduces head and torso injuries if you fall. Common Mistake: Wearing an out-of-date body protector or a poorly fitted hat. Area: Route Planning What To Do: Choose routes with 3m+ width, 3.7m overhead clearance and good verges; avoid blind bends and report low branches or tight gates to the council/BHS. Why It Matters: Adequate space and sightlines prevent squeezes and collisions. Common Mistake: Repeating routes with pinch-points or risky right turns across traffic. Area: Signals & Positioning What To Do: Use Highway Code hand signals early, make eye contact, and take a central road position on narrow lanes to deter unsafe overtakes. Why It Matters: Clear communication controls passing and protects your space. Common Mistake: Hugging the kerb and inviting drivers to squeeze by. Area: Group Riding What To Do: Ride single file on narrow roads, double only for visibility and return promptly; keep an extra horse length between mounts. Why It Matters: Maintains control and gives room for spooks or sudden stops. Common Mistake: Bunching up or blocking junctions so no one can manoeuvre safely. Area: Urban Tactics What To Do: Time rides off-peak, simplify junctions, dismount and lead if your horse is stressed; liaise with marshals at roadworks and avoid box junctions if unsure. Why It Matters: Reduces exposure to complex hazards like buses, cyclists and multiple lanes. Common Mistake: Forcing a mounted crossing when the horse is anxious. Area: Report & Improve What To Do: After a near-miss, record the registration, time and location and report to police and the BHS; log route hazards with photos and measurements. Why It Matters: Reporting drives enforcement and fixes dangerous hotspots. Common Mistake: Venting on social media but not filing official reports. In This Guide The UK road rule: 10mph and 2 metres What to wear: BHSrecommended hivis and protective kit Plan safer routes: width, heights and where horses can go Signals, positioning and passing etiquette Urban and London riding tactics Winter and lowlight visibility Report nearmisses and improve access Your safety kit checklist Share the road, save a life: the Highway Code now puts horses and riders near the top of the safety hierarchy, and a few clear rules and habits make road hacking far safer. Whether you ride quiet lanes or London streets, heres how to stay seen, stay polite, and stay in control.Key takeaway: Drivers must pass horses at no more than 10mph and give at least 2 metres of space; riders should wear hi-vis and ride defensively under the Highway Code hierarchy.The UK road rule: 10mph and 2 metresOn UK roads, drivers must slow to 10mph and pass horses with a minimum 2 metres of lateral space. Horses and riders are classed as vulnerable road users, second only to pedestrians, so motor vehicles carry greater responsibility around them.This Dead Slow rule is now embedded in the Highway Code, championed by the British Horse Society (BHS). It applies everywhere in the UKrural lanes, town centres and major citiescovering ridden horses, driven horses, and even feral or semiferal animals on Exmoor, Dartmoor and the New Forest. If a driver cannot give 2 metres, they must wait. If your horse becomes anxious, signal drivers to hold back and let the situation settle before inviting them to pass.Dead Slow messaging is now incorporated within the Highway Code. British Horse SocietyQuick tip: A clear, firm palm-down signal to slow/stop is understood by most drivers and buys you those vital few seconds to regain control or create a safe passing point.What to wear: BHSrecommended hivis and protective kitWear hivis on both rider and horse as a minimumtabard or jacket for you, leg bands for your horseadding LED lights in low light. A correctly fitted helmet is essential; a Level 3 BETA 2018 body protector adds proven impact protection.Visibility is nonnegotiable in the UKs short winter days, wet roads and low sun glare. The BHSs guidance is clear:Wear hivis and reflective equipment, ideally on both you and on the horse, which could be seen from above as well as from the front, rear and side. We recommend a minimum of a tabard or jacket for the rider, and leg bands for the horse. Consider wearing LED lights. BHS Safety GuidelinesFor head protection, choose a certified helmet and replace it after any impact. From 1 January 2024, British Eventing requires the Level 3 blue BETA 2018 standard for body protectors, replacing the older purple BETA 2009, to increase safety at speed and over obstaclesmany riders sensibly use the same standard for road hacking. See the rule update from British Eventing.At Just Horse Riders, we recommend pairing a highcontrast hivis jacket with reflective leg bands and an exercise sheet with reflective panels for full 360degree visibility. Explore:Rider hivis tabards, jackets and LED accessoriesCertified riding helmetsHorse boots and bandages (including reflective options)WeatherBeeta exercise sheets and reflective gearPro tip: Add a small red LED on the tail flap and a white LED on your right shoulder or hat silk to help drivers read your direction quickly at dawn and dusk.Plan safer routes: width, heights and where horses can goChoose routes with good verges, clear visibility and appropriate equestrian dimensions: bridleways should be at least 3m wide with 3.7m clearance height, and bridges 3.43.7m wide; avoid overhanging vegetation below 3.7m.The BHS Specifications and Standards for Equestrian Routes set practical thresholds that keep mounted riders safe. A mounted riders minimum height above ground is about 2.55m; anything hanging below 3.7m risks catching a rider or spooking a horse. On bridleways, look for a minimum 3m width so two riders can pass safely; bridges should offer 3.43.7m, and byways/roads ideally 10 feet (about 3.05m) or more. If your local route falls shortoverhanging branches, pinched gateways or blind bendsflag it with your council or the BHS access team.Legal note: Under S.164 of the Highways Act 1980, barbed wire or electric fencing must not be within 2m of gates on bridleways. If you see noncompliant fencing, report it to your local authority; narrow, hazardous pinchpoints force riders into the carriageway and create avoidable risk.Planning basics that save lives:Tell someone your route and ETA; carry a charged mobile (for emergencies only).Prefer quiet times: early weekend mornings typically beat weekday rush hours.Use circular routes that avoid repeated right turns across traffic.Consider the BHS Ride Safe Award to sharpen roadcraft and hazard anticipation.Where suitable and designated, towpaths and active travel routes can be shared; the BHS Access Strategy urges inclusion unless proven unsuitable. See the BHS 2025 Equestrian Access Strategy.Quick tip: If hedges hang low after storms, carry a small hivis lead rope; you can dismount and lead safely under obstruction without losing control.Signals, positioning and passing etiquetteUse standard Highway Code hand signals for slowing, stopping and turning, and ride in a clear, visible road position that discourages unsafe overtakes. Be courteous but firm: your signals guide drivers to pass only when safe.The Highway Codes hierarchy places horses and riders as vulnerable road users. That means motorised vehicles bear greater responsibility, but you still set the tone. Make eye contact with drivers, thank patient ones, and be decisive with your indicatorshand out early, steady pace, shoulder checks before moving out. If you hear fast traffic behind on a narrow lane, move to a central position to prevent a squeezepast and wave drivers by only when you have a safe line of sight.Treat others as youd want to be treated yourself... Use the appropriate hand signals to make other road users aware of your intentions to manoeuvre. BHS Responsible Riding AdviceGroup hacks are safest in single file on narrow roads, double file only when it aids visibility and you can return to single file swiftly. Leave an extra horse length between mounts in case of spooks. If you must turn right across traffic, signal early, take a strong road position and wait for a clear, slow gapdont be pressured into a risky manoeuvre.Pro tip: Teach your horse a calm stand cue at home; on the road, it buys you time at junctions and when a bus air brake hisses nearby.Urban and London riding tacticsIn heavy traffic or at junctions, dismount if your horse shows stress and lead past hazards; a controlled lead is safer than a mounted spook in tight spaces. Time your rides to avoid peak hours and complex junctions.City riding adds noise bursts, reflective glass, cyclists filtering and multiple lanes. Choose simpler tack for quick controlmany riders prefer a straightforward snaffle and wellfitted bridle for clear aids. Use pedestrian phases where permitted, cross in straight lines, and avoid box junctions if your horse hesitates. At temporary roadworks, ask a site marshal to hold plant movement while you pass. On bus corridors, wave drivers to wait until youre fully through a pinch point, then thank them with a clear nod.If your horse fixes, backs off or plants at lights, step down, loosen one rein, and lead with your body between horse and traffic. Once calm, remount from a safe gateway or mounting blocknever from the live carriageway.Quick tip: Plan urban loops with parks or quiet cutthroughs where you can decompress for five minutes before reentering busier roads.Winter and lowlight visibilityIn the UKs short winter days, combine fluorescent hivis for daylight and reflective materials plus LEDs for dusk, dawn and darkness. Put hivis on you and your horse for 360degree coverage.Fluorescent colours pop in low sun and overcast conditions; reflective strips and piping bounce headlight beams back to drivers. Fit leg bands on the forelegs (moving parts catch the eye), a reflective breastplate or martingale, and an exercise sheet with large reflective panels. Add white LEDs front and red LEDs rear; check batteries before every ride. Build redundancyif one item fails, others keep you visible.Explore rider and horse visibility essentials:Hivis clothing and accessories for ridersReflective exercise sheets and accessories from WeatherBeetaPro tip: Mud kills reflectivity. Wipe reflective panels and bands with a damp cloth before you leave the yard; pack a microfibre in your pocket for onroute touchups.Report nearmisses and improve accessReport dangerous driving or nearmisses to the police and the BHS immediately; your data drives enforcement and safer infrastructure. Log route hazards like low branches or tight gates with your council.Timely reporting builds the evidence policymakers and police need to protect vulnerable road users. If a driver passes too fast or too close, note the registration, location, time and any dashcam or phone footage (from witnesses). Report to the police via their online portal and to the BHS incident hub; patterns of behaviour and hotspot mapping lead to targeted patrols and signage. For physical route hazards, include photos and measurementsoverhanging vegetation below 3.7m, bridleways under 3m wide, or noncompliant fencing within 2m of gates.The BHSs Access Strategy calls for equestrian inclusion in Local Transport Plans and on multiuser routes like towpaths unless theres clear evidence of unsuitability. Riders who report issues and suggest pragmatic fixescutting back vegetation, adding verge refuges, resurfacing slippery sectionsoften see results.Your safety kit checklistEquip yourself and your horse so youre seen, protected and comfortable from yard to road and back. Heres a practical checklist built around BHS guidance and UK conditions:Hivis for rider: tabard or jacket with large reflective panels; add LEDs in low light. See rider hivis.Hivis for horse: leg bands, reflective breastplate, and an exercise sheet with reflective strips. Browse WeatherBeeta reflective sheets.Helmet: certified and correctly fitted; replace after impact. Explore riding helmets.Body protection: Level 3 BETA 2018 body protector (the current British Eventing standard) for extra impact protection.Footwear: supportive boots with safe heels for stirrups and good grip on wet vergessee riding boots.Clothing: weatherappropriate, nonslip fabrics; consider grippy knees or fullseat options for stabilitysee womens jodhpurs & breeches and childrens jodhpurs.Horse legs: protective boots or bandages for knocks and to anchor hivissee horse boots & bandages.Tack choices: simple, roadsafe bridle and reins with reflective covers; consider a neck strap for extra security.Seasonal extras: in winter, keep your horse warm and dry before and after rides with suitable turnout rugs.Training aids: treats for positive reinforcement during trafficproofingsee horse treats.Savvy savings: check our clearance in The Secret Tack Room for hivis and seasonal kit deals.At Just Horse Riders, we roadtest what we stock and listen to rider feedback. Our customers often pair a bright gilet over a reflective softshell with an LED browband and hivis leg wrapsmaximum visibility, minimal faff.Practical rideplanning stepsBefore every road hack, tell someone your route and ETA, carry a charged mobile for emergencies, and choose quieter times and wider, bettersurfaced lanes. If in doubt, take the BHS Ride Safe Award to sharpen your roadcraft.Five-minute plan that pays off every time:Check kit: helmet secure, hivis clean and bright, LEDs working, girth snug, reins grippy.Route check: avoid blind bends and narrow bridges; prefer bridleways with 3m+ width and 3.7m clearance height.Weather and light: if visibility is poor, add lights or reschedule.Horse readiness: a quick groom removes mud that dulls reflectivity; a few minutes of groundwork sharpens your stand and walk on.Brief a buddy: share your route and expected return; keep your phone accessible but ride handsfree.Quick tip: If your horse is fresh, do a fiveminute school in the arena before you leavetransitions, circles, haltso you start the road section focused and supple.FAQsWhat speed must drivers use when passing horses on UK roads?Drivers must slow to no more than 10mph and give at least 2 metres of space when passing. This applies on all UK public roads and is embedded in the Highway Code. See the BHS guidance.Is hivis clothing mandatory for road riding in the UK?Its not a legal requirement, but the BHS strongly recommends it as a minimum: a hivis tabard or jacket for the rider and leg bands for the horse, plus LEDs in low light. Find rider options in our hivis collection.How should riders signal their intentions on the road?Use standard Highway Code hand signals for slowing, stopping and turning. Signal early, ride a clear road position and make eye contact with drivers before manoeuvring.What body protector standard is required for British Eventingand should I use it on the road?From 1 January 2024, British Eventing requires Level 3 BETA 2018 (blue label). While not compulsory on the road, many riders choose it for added protection. Read the BE update.Can I ride on towpaths with my horse?Yes, where towpaths are designated as bridleways and judged suitable. The BHS advocates inclusion of equestrians on multiuser routes unless theres evidence of unsuitability. Check the BHS Access Strategy and local signage.What are the minimum widths and heights for safe equestrian routes?The BHS specifies minimums of 3m width for bridleways, 3.43.7m for bridges, and 3.7m overhead clearance to accommodate mounted riders (who sit at roughly 2.55m). Report substandard sections to your council or the BHS.What should I do after a nearmiss or dangerous pass?Record the vehicles registration, time and location, and report immediately to the police and the BHS. Your reports support enforcement and improvements to signage and infrastructure.Ride bright, ride courteous, and ride prepareddrivers who see you clearly and understand your signals will work with you. If you need help choosing the right kit, our team is just a call or message away. Shop the Essentials Everything mentioned in this guide, ready to browse. Shop Hi-Vis GearShop Riding HelmetsShop Boots & BandagesShop WeatherBeeta

A short week after the loss of Sporting Days Farms event.Small classes elsewhere but Irish breeding still well placed.See below the up-to-date results for this week Three Lakes Winter Horse Trials (USA) 31st January 1st February 2026Open Preliminary1st HSH Talk of the Town (ISH)(was BGS Gamble) 2017 gelding by Capri van Oveis Z (ZANG) out of Wesley (KWPN) by Hors la Loi II (KWPN). Breeder: F de Loyer. Rider: Kelley Hutchinson (IRL) 27.6, 0, 3.6 = 31.22nd Fernhill 767 (ISH)[was KEC Paqx] 2017 gelding by OBOS Quality 004 (OLD) out of Killerick Diamond (ISH) by Glidawn Diamond (ID). Breeder: Oonagh Kennedy. Rider: Alexander ONeal (USA) 33.4, 0, 2.8 = 36.2.Open Modified1st HSH Cruising Spirit (ISH)[TIH][was Cruising Alone] 2019 mare by Spirit House (TB) out of Amazon Cruise (ISH)[TIH] by Cruising (ISH)[TIH]. Breeder: Thomas Jones. Rider: Caroline Pamukcu (USA) 29.8, 0, 1.2 = 31.02nd Kilbunny Kanyou (ISH) 2018 gelding by Kannan (KWPN) out of ISHD Cosmos (ISH) by OBOS Quality 004 (OLD). Breeder: Richard OHara. Rider: Selena OHanlon (CAN) 31.8, 0, 0.0 = 31.8.Galway Downs Kickoff Horse Trials (USA) 31st January 1st February 2026Advanced / Intermediate2nd Carlingfords Hes A Clover (ISH)[was Hes a Clover] 2012 gelding by Polanski (SWB) out of Fourleaf Clover (ISH)[TIH] by Clover Hill (ID). Breeder: Thomas Keenan (Louth). Rider: Molly Duda (USA) 36.0, 4, 77.6 = 117.6.Intermediate / Preliminary3rd Ringwood Adios Amigo (ISH)[was Ringwood Phantom] 2016 gelding by Ringwood Adieu Z (ZANG) out of Ringwood Operetta (ISH) by Ringwood Harley Carol (ISH). Breeder: Peter Leonard. Rider: Erin Kellerhouse (USA) 35.6, 0, 5.6 = 41.2.Open Preliminary A3rd Sumas Tina Turner (ISH) 2016 mare by Quantino (HOLST) out of Sumas Fanny Brice (ISH) by VDL Arkansas (KWPN). Breeder: Suma Stud. Rider: Tamara Smith (USA) 25.5, 0, 6.0 = 31.510th Calling Cooley (ISH)(was BSI D Man) 2016 gelding by Tallmann TN (BWP) out of Ballyhane Ellie (ISH) by Luidam (KWPN). Breeder: Michael Buckley. Rider: Kaylawna Smith-Cook (USA) 32.6, 1.6, 12.8 = 47.0.Open Preliminary B1st Derroon Diamond (ISH)[TIH] 2016 gelding by Carrick Diamond Lad (ISH)[TIH] out of Dianes Cruise Clover (ISH)[TIH] by Cruising (ISH)[TIH]. Breeder: Sean Keevans. Rider: Lauren Crabtree (USA) 29.5, 0, 0.0 = 29.5.Sporting Days Farm February Event Sadly Cancelled.These results have been provided to Horse Sport Ireland by Charlie Ripman.These results are funded by Horse Sport Ireland.The post Two of three 1st placed Irish Sport Horses are Traditionally bred. appeared first on .

10 min read Last updated: January 2026 Short days, frozen ground and low visibility dont have to sideline your winter riding or your horses welfare. This guide shows you how to plan turnout, hydration, footing and road safetywith a 1014 day switch to stablingso you keep your horse healthy, hydrated, safe and seen. Quick Summary Short on time? Here are the key takeaways. Area: Winter Stabling Transition What To Do: Switch from summer turnout to winter stabling over 1014 days. Reduce grazing gradually, add more hay, and keep daily outdoor movement. Why It Matters: Allows the gut to adapt and reduces colic risk. Common Mistake: Making sudden routine changes or cutting turnout completely. Area: Hydration & Water What To Do: Provide 2070 litres of fresh water daily; break ice twice a day and offer slightly warmed water. Add an extra bucket and record intake. Why It Matters: Prevents dehydration and colic in cold weather. Common Mistake: Letting buckets freeze or assuming your horse will drink enough. Area: Safe Winter Footing What To Do: Avoid icy or hardfrozen ground and choose softer surfaces. Keep sessions shorter with gradual warmup and cooldown; use a quarter sheet for clipped horses. Why It Matters: Reduces slips and concussion injuries. Common Mistake: Schooling at speed on frozen or slippery tracks. Area: Road Hacking Visibility What To Do: Wear hiviz with front and rear lights every ride. Pick routes with good sightlines, avoid dawn/dusk, and slow to walk on slick roads. Why It Matters: Makes you more visible to drivers and lowers nearmiss risk. Common Mistake: Riding in poor visibility without lights or choosing fast, blind routes. Area: Daily Health Checks What To Do: Lift rugs fully and run hands down legs to check for heat, swelling and mud fever. Groom daily and use a weight tape weekly. Why It Matters: Finds problems early before they worsen or become costly. Common Mistake: Only peeking under rugs and missing hidden issues. Area: Yard & Field Management What To Do: Grit walkways and gateways; rotate turnout and use sacrificial areas with hardcore. Swap to inhand work or indoor schooling when surfaces are icy or fields saturated. Why It Matters: Prevents slips and protects pasture during freezethaw cycles. Common Mistake: Leading horses on ungritted concrete or churning up wet fields. Area: Maintain Fitness & Mind What To Do: Provide 2030 minutes of purposeful movement daily via groundwork, longreining, poles or walk hacks. Keep sessions short and regular with proper warmup/cooldown. Why It Matters: Supports digestion, joints and behaviour when turnout is limited. Common Mistake: Doing sporadic long sessions that oversweat clipped horses. Area: Winter Kit Readiness What To Do: Prepare waterproof turnout and stable rugs, hiviz with lights, grippy boots, leg protection and robust grooming tools. Insulate buckets and keep grit, a head torch and a small firstaid kit accessible. Why It Matters: Good kit keeps work efficient and reduces accidents in bad weather. Common Mistake: Waiting for a cold snap before organising essentials. In This Guide When to switch to winter stabling Keep your horse hydrated and colic-safe Exercising safely on winter footing Road hacking: visibility and risk reduction Daily winter checks: legs, skin, rugs and weight Yard and field management when frost and mud bite Keep fitness and minds active with limited turnout What to kit out with for safer, easier winters Short days, frozen ground and muddy gateways dont have to derail your horses welfare or your winter riding. With a clear plan for turnout, hydration, footing and visibility, you can keep your horse healthy, fit and safe right through to spring.Key takeaway: Transition to winter over 1014 days, ensure 2070 litres of fresh water daily, avoid icy or hard-frozen footing, and use hi-viz and lights on the roads.When to switch to winter stablingMake the change from summer turnout to winter stabling over 1014 days to reduce colic risk. Gradually reduce grazing time, introduce more hay, and keep routines consistent as daylight shortens.The British Horse Society (BHS) advises that turning out all summer and housing through winter is common in the UK, but your horses gut needs time to adapt. Mix hay with diminishing grass and step down turnout daily so the digestive system adjusts smoothly to higher-forage stabled diets. Daily outdoor time remains important: movement and access to forage support gut motility and mental wellbeing.Spending long hours in the stable can limit natural behaviours like roaming, foraging and socialising. As the BHS puts it, prolonged stabling can lead to boredom, stress and even unwanted habits. Consider small paddocks, a surfaced turnout pen, or in-hand grazing to preserve fields while meeting welfare needs.Pro tip: Keep a simple diary of turnout hours, hay fed, droppings quality and any behaviour changes. Small, steady changes beat sudden routine shifts every time.Keep your horse hydrated and colic-safeHorses need 2070 litres of fresh water per day in winter (around 10 litres per 100 kg body weight) and often drink less in cold weather. Check and break ice on troughs and buckets at least twice daily, and offer slightly warmed water to encourage drinking.Frozen troughs are a colic risk. The RSPCA stresses constant access to fresh water, plus plenty of forage and regular movement to keep the gut active. Add an extra bucket in the stable, insulate outdoor containers, and position buckets away from draughts. If your horse is reluctant to drink, try flavouring with a splash of soaked hay water or a vet-approved electrolyte from our NAF supplements range to stimulate thirst.Quick tip: Keep a measuring jug by the tap and log how much your horse drinks daily. A sudden drop in intake is an early warning to investigate.Exercising safely on winter footingAvoid riding on icy or hard-frozen ground; warm up and cool down gradually, keeping sessions shorter if fitness is lower. Choose work to suit your horses temperament and the days conditions.The BHS is clear: dont ride in slippery conditions or poor visibility. When the ground is frozen, concussion risk rises, so opt for a softer surface or a walk-focused session. Petplan Equine adds that you should warm your horse up gradually and cool down slowly, especially if theyre clipped, suggesting a quarter sheet for exercise and a cooler rug after work to avoid chills.Dont ride out in slippery conditions or when visibility is poor Freezing conditions can also cause the ground to become very hard so you may need to find a softer surface to ride on. Alternatively, you can work at a slower pace (mostly walk) to avoid excessive concussion. British Horse SocietyWarm your horse up gradually and cool down slowly, especially if theyre clipped. Consider riding with a quarter sheet and use a cooler rug after exercise to avoid chills. Petplan EquineAt Just Horse Riders, we recommend having both a breathable stable layer and a waterproof outer ready so you can adapt to sudden showers or cold snaps. Explore winter-ready turnout rugs for wet days and insulating stable rugs for cosy nights. Youll also find proven winter designs from WeatherBeeta built for British conditions.Road hacking: visibility and risk reductionWinter road hacking carries higher risk: the BHS recorded 3,383 horse-related road incidents in 2023, so wear hi-viz, use lights and avoid poor visibility. Lights are associated with fewer near-misses, and younger riders face higher risk.According to a 20232024 study via Aberystwyth University, 66.2% of UK equestrian road users reported near-misses, with lighting linked to fewer incidents. Shorter daylight and wet, reflective roads make you harder to see, and rural single-lane roads often have 60 mph limits with hidden bends. Build your safety stack each ride:Wear high-visibility kit and add lights front and back. Our hi-viz collection includes rider wear and accessories designed for low-light hacks.Always ride with a properly fitted helmet. While the UK Highway Code mandates helmets only for under-14s on roads, 95% of riders wear them voluntarily. See our certified riding helmets.Choose routes with verges, good sightlines and minimal fast traffic; avoid dawn and dusk when glare and visibility are worst.Keep to walk where surfaces are slick, and dismount if conditions deteriorate.Quick tip: Pair hi-viz with reflective leg bands for extra movement-based visibility, and make sure your own footwear has good grip. Our winter-friendly horse riding boots help on frosty yards and verges.For more data and guidance, read the BHS advice on winter care and road safety, and the Aberystwyth analysis of UK equestrian road risk: BHS Winter Care and Aberystwyth University study.Daily winter checks: legs, skin, rugs and weightCheck legs and skin every day for heat, swelling and mud fever; lift rugs fully to assess coat and body condition. Early action avoids bigger problems and vet bills later.Mud, reduced turnout and heavier rugs can hide developing issues. Run your hands over the limbs to find heat or scabs, and scan for stocking up after time in. Manage heels carefully in wet, poached gateways to reduce mud fever risk, and dry legs gently after hosing. Keep grooming regular even when clipped or rugged; its your daily health audit as much as a clean-up. Our grooming range has hardy mud brushes and mitts that make quick work of winter coats.Support vulnerable legs with appropriate protection when schooling or hacking, and stable wraps if recommended by your vet for swelling. See horse boots and bandages for protective options. Monitor weight weekly with a tape and adjust forage as needed; if your horse is dropping condition, consider veterinary advice and targeted support from our NAF supplements.Yard and field management when frost and mud biteGrit concrete and yard areas to prevent slips, and protect fields by reducing turnout during wet spells. Avoid riding on icy routes and hard-frozen ground to prevent falls and concussion.The BHS advises gritting yard walkways and gateways to keep handling safe in frost. In fields, rotate turnout, use sacrificial areas and add hardcore in high-traffic gateways to protect pasture. Climate volatility means you may face a freeze one week and waterlogged ground the next, so have an indoor schooling plan ready. On frozen days, prioritise in-hand work, walking hacks on safe surfaces, or a rest day with enrichment.Quick tip: Keep a winter tools stack by the stable doorgrit, shovel, head torch, spare headcollar and a small first-aid kit. Check our seasonal savings for winter essentials in The Secret Tack Room (clearance).Keep fitness and minds active with limited turnoutMaintain daily outdoor time and use indoor schooling, groundwork and walk-based hacks to prevent boredom and stress. Even 2030 minutes of purposeful movement supports digestion, joints and behaviour.When fields are fragile or daylight is scarce, swap one longer schooling session for several short activities across the week. Ideas include:In-hand polework and lateral exercises for core strength and focusLong-reining to build straightness and balance without heavy concussionHill walking in-hand on safe surfaces to maintain toplineWalk-only hacks on soft tracks for exposure and relaxationBack off intensity if your horses fitness has dippedshort and regular beats long and sporadic. Always include a proper warm-up and cool-down and avoid over-sweating, especially in clipped horses, to prevent chills.What to kit out with for safer, easier wintersEquip for winter with suitable rugs, hi-viz and lights, leg protection, grooming tools, and water management. The right kit keeps work efficient and your horse comfortable when the weather turns.Rugs for work and rest: Waterproof, breathable turnout rugs for wet days and insulating stable rugs for nights. Look for quick-dry linings and secure fastenings; see proven designs from WeatherBeeta.Visibility: Rider and horse hi-viz with LEDs or clip-on lightsstart with our hi-viz collection.Safety headwear: A properly fitted, up-to-standard riding helmet is non-negotiable year-round.Footwear: Winter-grip riding boots for frosty yards and slick verges.Leg care: Protective boots and bandages for work; consider stable wraps if advised.Grooming and checks: Tough grooming tools to manage mud and spot early skin issues.Hydration support: Insulate buckets, break ice twice daily, and use vet-approved electrolytes from NAF if appropriate to encourage drinking.Pro tip: Keep a wet kit drying zone readyquarter sheet, cooler rug, towels and spare glovesso you can turn work around fast between showers and sleet.The bottom linePlan a 1014 day transition, prioritise hydration, footing and visibility, and check your horse daily to keep winter safe. Combine steady routines with flexible exercise and youll protect health, behaviour and performance until spring.If youd like help choosing winter essentials, our team at Just Horse Riders is here with practical, UK-focused advice and fast delivery on trusted brands.FAQsHow do I reduce colic risk when moving to winter stabling?Change over 1014 days: reduce grazing time bit by bit, introduce more hay, and keep water freely available at all times. The BHS recommends gradual routine shifts, and the RSPCA highlights that movement, forage and hydration are key gut protectors. Break ice twice daily and consider offering slightly warmed water to maintain intake.Is it safe to ride when the ground is frozen?Noavoid hard-frozen or icy footing to prevent slips and concussion. The BHS advises either finding a softer surface or working mainly at walk. Use a thorough warm-up and cool-down, add an exercise quarter sheet if your horse is clipped, and keep sessions shorter if fitness is down. See guidance from the BHS and Petplan Equine.How much should my horse drink in winter?Plan for 2070 litres per day (about 10 litres per 100 kg body weight). Horses often drink less in cold weather, so check and break ice at least twice daily, add extra buckets, and consider slightly warmed water to encourage drinking. Source: RSPCA.Whats the safest way to hack on roads in winter?Wear hi-viz and use lights front and back, avoid poor visibility and slippery roads, and choose routes with good sightlines. In 2023 the BHS recorded 3,383 road incidents, and research shows lights are associated with fewer near-misses. A properly fitted helmet is essentialexplore our hi-viz gear and helmets to stack the odds in your favour.How can I keep my horse fit when turnout is limited?Ensure some daily outdoor time and mix in indoor schooling, groundwork, long-reining and walk-based hacks on safe surfaces. Aim for frequent, shorter sessions with careful warm-ups and cool-downs. This supports gut movement, joints and behaviour when fields are too wet to use.What daily checks matter most in winter?Hands-on checks for leg heat and swelling, mud fever scabs, rug rubs and body condition. Lift rugs fully every day, examine heels and pasterns after turnout, and keep grooming regular for early detection. Use appropriate protective gear from our boots and bandages and stock up on robust grooming tools.When should I call the vet?Call immediately if you see signs of colic (pawing, rolling, flank-watching, reduced gut sounds), worsening mud fever with swelling or lameness, or unexplained weight loss despite adequate forage. Register with an equine vet and keep emergency numbers in the tack room. Expert guidance: RSPCA, Petplan Equine. Shop the Essentials Everything mentioned in this guide, ready to browse. Shop Turnout RugsShop Stable RugsShop Hi-Vis GearShop Riding HelmetsShop Riding Boots

Chawke bags maiden five-star win on another massive week for IrishJessica Krtens reign as Horse Sport Irelands High Performance Jumping Manager got off to a very solid start with a podium finish in the four-star Nations Cup in Sharjah yesterday.It came at the end of a week in which the depth chart of Irish show jumping was illustrated once more around the globe.James Chawke won his first ever five-star class, having served a long apprenticeship in America, while there were major four-star Grands Prix successes for Olympic teammates Shane Sweetnam and Daniel Coyle, with Coyle completing a GP double with the two-star version as well.There were other two-star victories also for Michael Duffy and Conor Swail.Krten (above) mixed experience with youth when selecting her team, with the Breen brothers from Tipperary, Trevor and Shane, being joined by David Simpson and Mikey Pender.Simpson did a solid job as pathfinder, the Derry rider posting two rounds of four faults each on board Billy Fern.Trevor Breen and Kannoon Blue followed with a similar return in the first round but two splendid clears by Castledermot athlete Pender and the Miguel Bravo-bred Irish Sport Horse HHS Orchidee, and Shane Breen with BP Arctic Blue placed Krtens crew in the silver medal position at the half-way behind..David Wills Germany, who were faultless, held the lead and double clears by the chef dequipe, with Xixo Borgia, and Sophie Hinners, with Lommers, ensured that they would retain their position at the top when the dust had cleared.There were no clear rounds for the Irish, however, with Simpson and Shane Breen doing best with one rail each down, and Penders eight faults also counting as Trevor Breen and Kannoon Blue recorded the discard score of 13.Those 16 faults left Ireland with a total of 20, and they dropped down a position as a result, with the UAE finishing second.The new boss was very pleased with the opening result of her stewardship.It was a great podium finish today from a team of young horses and great riders, said the Antrim woman. It was a good opportunity to give these horses some exposure and experience at this level, looking towards the future.They say you never forget your first time and James Chawke will certainly feel that way about last Wednesday night, when he secured his maiden five-star international victory at Desert International Horse Park in Thermal (above and feature pic).The Portlaoise native has enjoyed plenty of success in the last two years in bringing Daido vant Ruytershof Z through the ranks and it was fitting that they combined to score in the 1.45m speed class at the California venue.Irish duo, Alan Wade and Colm Quinn set the course in the Grand Prix Stadium and Chawke was able to elicit the quickest clear by some distance with the pacy 12-year-old mare owned by Jan Van Alken, the time of 61.78 seconds seeing off next best Tiffany Foster (CAN) and Battlecry, who stopped the clock in 63.43.Im really happy, said Chawke of his inaugural victory. I thought the track was very good. Alan always builds a good course. I actually didnt think it was so easy; all the lines were a bit the same in that everyone kind of had to do the same number. So, it was just trying to be quick around the turns.Quick proved no problem for Chawke and the Zangersheide mare.Shes a really quick horse. Shes very careful and very game. Shes spicy for sure. She has her own opinions, but shes very sweet.America was certainly a happy hunting ground for the Green Jackets over the week and Shane Sweetnam headed an Irish 1-2 in the feature of Week 4 of Wellington Internationals Winter Equestrian Festival when steering Coriaan van Klapscheut Z to victory in the $215,000 MARS Equestrian Grand Prix (above).Six qualified for the jump-off and all bar one were clear again next time around, so the margins had to be found in terms of tight turns, stride decisions and galloping where possible.And it was Castlemagner man Sweetnam and his 10-year-old that had all the answers, stopping the clock on 41.40. Enniscorthys Bertram Allen, who registered two four-star triumphs the previous week, was the best of the rest with Qonquest de Rigo, going clear in 41.95.I thought it would take more time [to get to this level], but I didnt have many horses when he stepped up to FEI last year, said Sweetnam, who has had the ride on the gelding he owns together with Voquest, LLC, since the middle of 2024.His first week here last year, hed never done an FEI class and was second in the WEF [Challenge Cup]. He took to it like a duck to water and was very competitive from the starteven though he was green. He really wants to leave the jumps up.Weve been second a lot, which was my year last year, so its nice to have him put me up one spot and get the win!Just a few hours later, on Sunday morning Irish time in Ocala, it was Daniel Coyle winning the $200,000 Gary Yeomans Ford Grand Prix from a world-class field, with a horse at the opposite end of the experience spectrum, 16-year-old Farrel (below).The Lazarus of the show jumping world, having made a spectacular comeback two years ago after two years retired through injury, the diminutive 16-year-old owned by Ariel Grange retains the hunger, scope and speed of his youth, besting eight other combinations in the tiebreaker.The Lothlorien Farm favourite and his Ardmore-born pilot posted a time of 39.24 and that was enough to see off Jessica Mendoza (GBR) and In The Air by just under half a second.This year Ive been very fast but have had a fence down, Coyle detailed afterwards, giving a glimpse to his insight before heading down the ramp the second time.I could be two or three seconds faster, but with a fence down. So I decided to go a little slower and be second or third. So I went in with that in mind, but that also doesnt always work, sometimes we kinda just go, he laughed.The jump-off was quite straightforward. One to two, there were no real numbers. Then the double. When I walked, it was five strides across the centre, and I didnt think I was going to do that, but we did it, and thats where I got an extra half a second on everybody, and hes very good at turning no matter what the speed is.Weve had Farrel since he just turned seven. Hes been amazing. Hes my most successful horse ever on paper, which a lot of people dont know. In the last 10 years of my career, hes won the most. From ranking classes to national Grands Prix, Nations Cups, hes been my most successful horse ever. Everybodys getting a bit older, including him, and I really wanted to win tonight, just for Farrel.It was the second four-star victory of the week for Ireland at the World Equestrian Center, as Tom Wachman and Do It Easy followed up their London Grand Prix win before Christmas by emerging triumphant from the Grand Prix Qualifier (below).Eight combinations made the jump-off, including Michael Duffy and Be Sky Hawk, who were very quick but had four faults. Do It Easy and his Goolds Cross pilot were the penultimate pair into the arena and they came home strongly in the latter part of the course to prevail.I watched one or two on the screen, but I made a good plan with Cian OConnor and Ross Mulholland, said Wachman.I wanted to do seven from one to two in the jump-off, but I did eight, so I was a little slow, and then did 11 strides to the double. Some were doing 10, but it was very hard to jump it on 10. Then nine to the plank, seven back, and seven to the second-to-last, and thats where I think I had it.Hes an amazing horse. Hes so rideable and so brave. He won the Grand Prix in London a couple of weeks ago, so hes been jumping in super form. Hes 13, and Ive been riding him for quite a while now. My brother Max rode him, and Cian rode him as well. He was very well produced in Stephex Stables with Kendra Claricia Brinkop. He really is such a kind horse, and hes so fun to work with, and he wants to win.Earlier in the day at the Florida arena, Coyle had been runner-up in a two-star speed class with Urville Z, which was won by Irish Sport Horse Rincoola Milsean, bred by the late Harold McGahern in Longford, and ridden by Charlotte Jacobs (USA).Coyle and Urville also had to settle for the bridesmaid role again 24 hours later, when Duffy and Mister Qerly Z edged them out in a thrilling conclusion to the two-star Grand Prix Qualifier.It was Coyle that held the lead with a clear in 35.58 that looked difficult to trump. It was very difficult, as it turned out, but not impossible, as Duffy and his 10-year-old somehow found one-hundredth of a second (below).I think you can only go as fast as your horse can go, the Turloughmore athlete reasoned. Thats the key to a jump-off.Hes very good on the right [turn], and hes a little green on the left turn. So, I stayed a bit wide on the left turn from three to four, but then Id say I probably had two less strides on the right turn.Meanwhile, Conor Swail was a two-star speed winner back at Desert International Horse Park the same evening, partnering Mannon Farms ultra-reliable and consistent, Theo 160 (below) to blitz the field with a clear in 63.19 seconds, 2.79 seconds clear of runner-up Michelle Berry (USA) and Thank You RS.I thought today Alan built a bit of a tougher track, said the Darragh Cross native, who would go on to be fourth in the five-star Longines FEI Jumping World Cup, jumping a double clear with Casturano.All your sort of turns and rollbacks made it so that the horses saw the jumps a little late, Swail declared. It just made it a little more difficult for the horse to catch the jump and jump it correctly and do everything smoothly.Myself and Theo have had a great partnership together for many years now. So, those type of tracks are not maybe as much of a challenge for us because hes a bit older, and Im a bit older and wiser. Its maybe a little less challenging as opposed to a more green horse.Hes always been a wonderful horse for me. He has jumped five-star grands prix when he shouldnt be, but he does because I asked him to do so. Hes a wonderful little guy. Now I try and aim him at sort of the 1.45m and some 1.50m. You can see hes still very competitive and great at it. He owes me nothing. Hes been such a great horse for me, its great for him to have another win under his belt.Urville Z finally entered the winners enclosure, to complete an excellent week for horse and rider, especially given they are a new pairing, helping Coyle complete the Grand Prix double in the two-star version on Sunday night, clocking a clear in 42.77 to secure the honours (below).Back to the wall was the one place I knew I could turn back, and if I had a good stride she could take it, Coyle explained. Vaclav (Stanek) had a great round with his horse (Langley), and I got to watch the last few jumps, and his turn back to the wall looked pretty fast.Ive been second quite a lot recently, so I decided to let her go, and theres no better horse to do that with. Shes a real fighter, and whatever I put her to, she gives it to me.Last week was my first time showing her. I got her right before Christmas. Last week she jumped the national, and won the Futures Prix. The rider didnt help much. I was struggling last week and didnt really know how to ride her, and she still won,.I am really excited for her. Already, in her first class, she won, in her second class, she was second, and in her third class, which was a ranking class, she was second, and today was my fourth class with her, and she also won. So, shes had a first, two seconds, and a first in her first four classes. I havent done that before, so thats pretty good.BREEDINGHHS ORCHIDEE (ISH) 2016 br mare by Le Roi (ZfdP) out of HHS Tiffany (ISH) by Luidam (KWPN). Breeder: Miguel Bravo. Owner: Bravo Hughes Ltd, Molly Hughes Bravo. Rider: Michael Pender (IRL)RINCOOLA MILSEAN (ISH) 2013 gelding by Aldatus Z (OLD) out of Rincoola Abu (ISH)[TIH] by Cruising (ISH)[TIH]. Breeder: Harold McGahern, Co Longford. Owner: North Star. Rider: Charlotte Jacobs (USA).The post Krten era begins with podium appeared first on .

10 min read Last updated: January 2026 Trying to keep your dressage training welfare-first while staying compliant for 2025? This guide shows UK riders how to fit nosebands to the FEIs 1.7 cm standard, use rising trot up to novice to build relaxation, and schedule two-week post-show breaks for four-year-oldsso you ride harmoniously and pass checks. Quick Summary Short on time? Here are the key takeaways. Area: Noseband Fit Compliance What To Do: Use a calibrated gauge and set 1.72.0 cm clearance at the nasal midline; position the cavesson two fingers below the facial crest and re-check after work. Why It Matters: Meets 2025 checks and reduces pressure-related pain. Common Mistake: Guessing with finger width or clamping nosebands to stop mouth movement. Area: Train Without Noseband What To Do: Run short, quiet schooling sessions without a noseband and film them; compare with your usual setup the next day before deciding. Why It Matters: Identifies the most comfortable, stable contact for your horse. Common Mistake: Testing for the first time at a show or judging from one ride. Area: UK Rule Awareness What To Do: For BD, always compete with a noseband; carry and use a gauge as FEI-style checks appear at more shows. Why It Matters: Keeps you compliant and avoids penalties or elimination. Common Mistake: Assuming Swedens optional noseband rule applies in Britain. Area: Rising Trot Integration What To Do: Alternate blocks of rising and sitting (e.g., 3 minutes rising, 1 minute sitting) and use rising when introducing lateral work. Why It Matters: Protects backs, preserves rhythm, and builds relaxation. Common Mistake: Sitting too long on a tight back or using rising only as a last resort. Area: Four-Year-Old Rest What To Do: Book two-week breaks after every competition; fill rest weeks with turnout, easy hacks, and light bodywork. Why It Matters: Prevents overuse injuries in developing joints and soft tissue. Common Mistake: Cramming back-to-back outings or hard schooling during rest. Area: Show-Day Kit What To Do: Pack a noseband gauge, spare cavesson/drop, bridle punch and a cooling plan with timed walk breaks and water. Why It Matters: Being prepared reduces stress and enables quick, welfare-first adjustments. Common Mistake: Arriving without spares or tools and making rushed fixes. Area: Monthly Welfare Audit What To Do: Review saddle/bridle fit, shoeing intervals, and workloadrest balance monthly; log and act on rubs, stiffness, or contact issues. Why It Matters: Early fixes avert bigger soundness and behaviour problems. Common Mistake: Skipping audits until a problem becomes obvious. Area: Harmony-First Schooling What To Do: Standardise your warm-up (stretch, transitions, figures), build in walk breaks, and reward softness; pilot tack changes at home first. Why It Matters: Judges prioritise relaxation, rhythm, and welfare-led riding. Common Mistake: Chasing movements before basics or changing multiple variables at once. In This Guide What Sweden changed for 2025 and why it matters in the UK Are nosebands now optional in UK dressage? Should you try removing the noseband at home? How to measure and fit a noseband for 2025 checks Rising trot in dressage: when and why to use it Planning breaks for four-year-olds without losing training Train for harmony first: what judges want in 2025 Show-day checklist for UK dressage under welfare-focused rules Sweden has just rewritten parts of dressage. From 1 January 2025, nosebands are optional in single-bitted bridles, rising trot is welcomed up to novice level, and four-year-olds must have two weeks off between competitions. Even if you never set hoof in Sweden, these welfare-led shifts are shaping what UK riders should do now.Key takeaway: Prepare for welfare-first dressage by fitting nosebands to the 1.7 cm FEI standard, schooling with (and without) nosebands at home, using rising trot to build relaxation, and ring-fencing two-week breaks for young horses.What Sweden changed for 2025 and why it matters in the UKSweden has made nosebands optional on single-bitted bridles across all dressage levels from 1 January 2025, permitted rising trot up to novice B3/LB:3, and requires two-week competition breaks for four-year-olds.These decisions are grounded in years of horse-first pilots and democratic input: around 10% of rule submissions focused on noseband choice, contributing to the optional policy. The Swedish reforms align closely with international welfare trends, including the FEIs 2025 introduction of a calibrated noseband tightness check requiring at least 1.7 cm clearance at the nasal bone. For sources and further reading, see Eurodressage (nosebands optional) and our explainer on the wider programme of change at Just Horse Riders.We have welcomed the discussion about nosebands We have received a lot of input from the association about making nosebands voluntary, and now the dressage committee has agreed to this. Andrea Barth, Director of Operations for Sport and Competition, Swedish Equestrian FederationSwedens approach isnt new. It builds on 2015 changes that made spurs and the curb optional nationally in dressage and follows a multi-year pilot for rising trot in tests. As Maria Nilsson, Chairwoman of the Swedish Dressage Committee, notes in Eurodressages 10-year review, these are measured, evidence-based steps to put harmony and welfare at the centre.Are nosebands now optional in UK dressage?No. British Dressage tests still require a noseband, and UK riders should expect FEI-aligned noseband tightness checks (1.7 cm minimum clearance) to be enforced at international level and increasingly referenced at affiliated national shows.British equestrian bodies continue to align with FEI welfare standards, and the British Horse Society (BHS) strongly encourages routine tack-fit audits. So, while you must compete in a noseband at UK dressage, you should prepare for the same measurement focus Sweden and the FEI are applying. This means fitting for comfort and compliance at home, and arriving at shows ready for checks.At Just Horse Riders, we recommend adding a calibrated noseband gauge to your show kit and practising with it in day-to-day schooling. Pack it alongside your competition clothing and keep it with your bridle tools to avoid last-minute scrambles in the warm-up.Should you try removing the noseband at home?Yes. School without a noseband on a quiet day to assess your horses comfort, contact, and stability before any decision about competition tack.Going noseband-free can be enlightening: some horses soften and seek a more elastic contact; others become unsettled, toss the head, or struggle to maintain straightness. As international dressage judge Pia Flth cautions in Eurodressage:I dont think that many people will take advantage of it The bridle becomes a little more unstable without a noseband, and many horses find it awkward.How to test it well:Start in a controlled environment. Ride in a familiar arena and keep the session short (2030 minutes).Watch for signs of unease. Head tilting, tongue displacement, gaping, uneven contact, or tension in downward transitions.Compare feel and video yourself. Try your normal noseband the next day and review the footage side-by-side.If removing isnt right, improve the fit. An anatomical cavesson or a softer flash/drop can stabilise the bridle while reducing pressure points.Quick tip: If your horse is sensitive over the nasal bone, consider anatomically shaped cavessons from brands like Shires (bridles and cavessons) or LeMieux (comfort-first bridlework). If youre upgrading on a budget, check our Secret Tack Room clearance for occasional bridle bargains.How to measure and fit a noseband for 2025 checksUse a calibrated gauge and maintain 1.72.0 cm space between the noseband and the nasal bone to meet FEI standards and welfare expectations.Step-by-step fit and check routine:Position the noseband correctly. A cavesson should sit roughly two fingers below the facial crest; avoid resting on the soft cartilage of the nostrils.Fasten to comfort, not silence. You should achieve the 1.72.0 cm clearance at the nasal midline; over-tightening risks pain, restricted airflow, and pressure injury.Use a proper gauge. Slide the wedge or gauge at the nasal midline to confirm clearance; do not rely on finger thickness alone.Re-check after work. The best time to test is post-ride when nasal passages are warm and slightly dilated.Monitor for red flags. Rubs on the nasal bridge, reluctance to take the contact, grinding, or inconsistent breathing suggest you need to loosen or change the design.Pro tip: Pack a mini tack-fit kit in your lorry gauge, spare cavesson or drop, and a small punch together with your plaiting and grooming essentials. If you love a streamlined kit bag, browse our practical gifts and toolkits that double as ring-side organisers.Remember, Swedens optionality for single bits is about choice and welfare. As Maria Nilsson summarised in Eurodressage:We wanted to open up the possibility and make it optional where the decision lies with the rider to consider what they feel they need and what suits the horse best.Rising trot in dressage: when and why to use itRising trot is permitted in Sweden up to novice B3/LB:3 and is an excellent tool for developing relaxation, swing, and back health in young or novice horses.The Swedish pilot that began in 2021 showed positive feedback for harmony at lower levels, and it aligns with what many UK trainers already practise: use rising trot to reduce spinal loading, encourage the horse to travel over the back, and keep the rhythm pure. In the UK, you cant rely on it in all tests, but you can absolutely use it to build the quality of trot work in training.How to integrate rising trot effectively:Alternate sitting and rising in sets (e.g., 3 minutes rising, 1 minute sitting) to maintain suppleness without fatigue.Use rising in lateral work introductions (leg-yield, shallow loops) to avoid bracing.In spring (AprilJune), take advantage of the softer going on grass to produce longer, elastic trots and reduce arena wear.In muddy autumns and winter, keep sessions shorter and focused; use poles to encourage cadence without impact.Gear that helps: secure, grippy breeches and well-fitted boots make your position more stable and kinder to your horses back. Explore supportive womens breeches and jodhpurs, childrens jodhpurs for juniors, and protective horse boots and bandages for careful gymnastic work.Planning breaks for four-year-olds without losing trainingSweden mandates two-week breaks between competitions for four-year-olds; UK riders should adopt the same minimum and extend the rest in wet winters to prevent splints or joint strain.For young horses, growth plates and soft tissues are still adapting to work. Competing hard every weekend is counterproductive. Mirror Swedens rule by scheduling two-week down blocks after any outing, especially from October to March when heavy ground increases strain. Use the time for low-impact development:Turnout with purpose. Light daily turnout maintains mental health and gentle movement; add turnout boots for support on muddy days.Rug appropriately. Keep muscles warm in changeable weather with breathable turnout rugs; look at durable options from WeatherBeeta for winter reliability.Bodywork and checks. Short physiotherapy sessions, carrot stretches, and weekly vet/therapist check-ins if you notice stiffness, girthiness, or reluctance to step under.Nutrition and recovery. Consider targeted supplements (e.g., electrolytes in mild spells, joint support for growth phases) and keep up with restorative grooming.Quick tip: Log each competition and immediately book your horses rest window plus two short, easy hack days the week after. Youre less tempted to fill the diary when the rest is already inked in.Train for harmony first: what judges want in 2025Judges and committees are prioritising relaxation, rhythm, and welfare-led riding, and they expect rider choices (including tack) to support harmony.Maria Nilssons guiding principle is clear:We have the horse and rider at the center and we want to see harmonious riding Changes are made gradually Our pilot projects are very good examples of something being tested before we implement it in the rules.Translate that into your schooling:Pilot before you commit. Trial noseband-free sessions, new cavessons, or bit choices at home with video feedback to track expression and contact quality.Upgrade the basics. A consistent warm-up recipe (stretch, transitions, figures) and rising trot to unlock the back beats a patchwork of tricks.Audit welfare monthly. Check saddle and bridle fit, shoeing cycle, and work/rest balance. Small tweaks now avoid bigger issues later.Vary the environment. Hacking builds confidence and breath, and its easier to find harmony outside the arena some days go safely with hi-vis for riders and a well-fitted riding helmet.Reward softness. Pair a light seat and elastic hands with plenty of walk breaks a handful from our horse treats selection can positively reinforce a tense youngster.Show-day checklist for UK dressage under welfare-focused rulesUK shows will measure noseband fit at FEI level and may introduce similar checks nationally; arrive ready with compliant tack, calm schooling, and a welfare-first plan.Pre-competition and ringside essentials:Noseband gauge and spare cavesson/drop to adjust for comfort and compliance.Bit wipes and a bridle punch for quick refinements.Cooling routine for the warm-up: timed walk breaks and water.Kit that fits and performs: polished riding boots and breathable competition clothing help you ride quietly and effectively.Pads and accessories you trust: well-shaped saddle pads from LeMieux and bridlework from Shires are popular with our dressage customers for comfort and stability.Backups on a budget: our Secret Tack Room clearance is ideal for a spare show pad or girth cover.Pro tip: Plan your warm-up with rising trot sets, transitions, and stretching lines first, then add short bursts of test-specific work. This keeps the back loose and the mind settled.Conclusion: three steps to get ahead this seasonSwedens welfare-led changes and the FEIs 2025 checks are signposts for where the sport is going. Get ahead by:Measuring noseband clearance at 1.72.0 cm every ride and after work.Schooling with nosebands on and off to find the most harmonious contact for your horse.Embedding rising trot sets and two-week post-show breaks (longer in wet winters) for young horses.If you need help choosing comfort-first tack or building a welfare-savvy show kit, our team at Just Horse Riders is here to help from supportive boots and bandages to reliable winter turnout rugs and rider essentials.FAQsWill UK dressage competitions adopt optional nosebands like Sweden?Not currently. British Dressage requires a noseband, but FEI-aligned tightness checks (1.7 cm minimum) are being enforced internationally from 2025 and may influence national practice. See the policy background via Eurodressage.How does rising trot benefit young horses in training?Rising trot reduces spinal stress compared with sitting, making it ideal for building relaxation, swing, and rhythm, especially in greener horses. Swedens pilot up to LB:3 received positive feedback and is now part of their tests.What rest is best for four-year-olds in UK competition schedules?Give at least two weeks off after each competition, mirroring Swedens rule. In UK winters, extend the break if fields are deep or slippery to avoid splints or joint strain; monitor for fatigue signs like reluctance to work, dull coat, or sensitivity to girthing.Does removing the noseband affect bridle stability?Often, yes. Some horses go better; others become unstable or tense. Test at home first and consider a well-fitted, anatomical cavesson if you need more stability with less pressure.Are these Swedish changes influencing FEI rules for UK riders?Yes. Swedens welfare-first initiatives dovetail with FEIs 2025 noseband measurement and ongoing tack and welfare reviews for 2026, which UK international competitors must follow.How do I measure noseband tightness correctly?Use a calibrated gauge at the nasal midline and maintain at least 1.7 cm clearance (up to about 2.0 cm for comfort). Check post-ride when nasal passages are warm, and avoid compressing soft tissue.What should I buy to prepare for welfare-focused checks?Add a noseband gauge, an anatomical cavesson, and a spare drop/flash to your kit, plus show-day basics like breathable competition wear and reliable riding boots. For comfort and value, keep an eye on our Secret Tack Room deals. Shop the Essentials Everything mentioned in this guide, ready to browse. Shop ShiresShop Boots & BandagesShop Competition WearShop Riding BootsShop Clearance Deals

Good news for chocolate-loving equestrians Marks & Spencer has added a touch of equine to its Easter egg range for the second year running in the form of Shaggy the Shetland!Bar updated packaging this time theyve gone for an orange stable with multi-coloured straw at the bottom the plump little pony looks much the same. He is wearing a head collar and certainly has the cute factor, although he is possibly carrying a little too much condition around his middle to be a healthy representation of his breed.The hollow milk and white chocolate Shetland weighs 155g and costs 7. On the side of the box are the words: its time for the mane event.I see what they did thereShaggy the Shetland will charm everyone this Easter, says M&S in the description on its website. Shaggy is an adorable pony lovingly crafted from creamy milk and white chocolate almost too cute to eat! Were committed to sourcing our cocoa responsibly.Too cute to eat? I dont think soAnother cute animal in the range is the milk chocolate Hiccup the Hippo, whose branding says, I hope you pygmy!Others include Sunny the Sloth, Daisy the Cow, Ralph the Cavapoo, and Toby the T-Rex.View Shaggy the Shetland and the rest of the animal friends Easter range on the M&S website here.About the Shetland ponyShetland ponies are native to the UK. It is a Scottish breed that originated in the Shetland Islands in the north of Scotland. They measure up to around 10hh and it is their diminutive stature that often earns them the cute name tag from members of the general public although horse people know better.Shetlands are small but very hardy, designed to survive Scottish winters in the wild, and used to carry heavy loads and plough fields in bygone years. Nowadays they are still used for riding and driving, and are commonly referred to by a nickname with a different vowel (i) replacing the e in ShetlandRelated contentAbandoned Shetland wins competition to become a cover starDressage rider and Love Island star Gemma Owen rehomes a Shetland ponyObese Shetland loses 30 kilos after weigh inOur experts explain how to provide the best diet for a horseThe post Marks & Spencers tasty chocolate pony is back! appeared first on Your Horse.