Ocala, FL International competition came to a close on Sunday afternoon as 32 top horse-and-rider combinations representing 12 different nations vied for the lions share of the prize money in the $200,000 Marine Corps Heritage Foundation Grand Prix CSI4*. After a nail-biting seven-horse jump-off, it was Great Britains Jessica Mendoza who emerged victorious aboard her own In The Air (Air JordanSource

WinchesterMPDanny Chambers recently visited workinganimalcharitySPANAs centre in Marrakech,Morocco, wherehecompleted an internship as a youngvetin 2009.Danny has been the Liberal Democrat MP for Winchester since 2024, but before entering politics, he was a practising vet and served on the Council of the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons. As a vet, Danny has also worked in Gambia, India, Iraq, New Zealand and across the UK.Last month (23 January), Danny returned to the centre where he spent two months as a newly graduated vet, to meet the team and the working animals in their care. It was fantastic to return to SPANAs Marrakech centre after 16 years and see so many familiar faces, which really shows the teams dedication, he said. My placement as a young vet in Morocco was one of the most formative experiences of my life. I saw firsthand how essential working animals, such as horses, donkeys, and mules, are to their communities.Danny, who recently spoke about riding road safety at a Westminster Hall debate, is an advocate for improvements in animal welfare and champions One Health. He has discussed the approach in Parliament on multiple occasions, recognising that animal, human and environmental health are inseparable. Supporting animal health overseas not only improves welfare for the animals themselves, which is deeply important, it also helps prevent the spread of diseases, he said. Its one of the most cost-effective ways to protect UK public health and livestock, while making a real difference to the lives of animals and the communities that depend on them.SPANA provides veterinary treatment for working animals and support and training for their owners. Within certain countries, the charity continues to offer placements to local student vets and technicians, focussing on those who wouldnt usually have access to hands-on experience.In many of the countries where we work, vets and veterinary technicians often qualify with minimal direct experience caring for working animals, said Professor Hassan Alyakine, SPANA Morocco Country Director. In Morocco, our student placements give local and regional vets practical experience, directly improving the care working animals receive.Images by SPANARelated contentJust this morning a horse was hit: Westminster debate hears urgent calls to protect riders on roadsHelping us improve the lives of more animals: SPANA receives prestigious awardEquine charity celebrates scheme training thousands of vetsThe post Equine advocate MPreturnstoanimalcharitythat helped shape his career appeared first on Your Horse.

11 min read Last updated: January 2026 Worried your stable routine might be stealing your horses sleep and performance? Heres a warm, UK-focused plan to secure roughly 3.5 hours of nightly sleep with about 30 minutes REMusing 15 cm deep bedding, 12 m+ space, calm lightsout routines and smart ruggingso your horse lies down confidently and wakes safer, sweeter, and ready to work. Quick Summary Short on time? Here are the key takeaways. Area: Bedding depth & dryness What To Do: Maintain a clean, dry bed at least 15 cm deep across the whole stable; measure with a ruler and top up weekly (midweek in wet spells). Remove wet to the floor daily and bank sides to recycle clean material. Why It Matters: Deep, dry beds significantly increase both non-REM and REM sleep and encourage lying down. Common Mistake: Only deepening the centre or leaving damp patches that deter recumbency. Area: Stable space & layout What To Do: Give an average horse 12 m+ with a clear lying patch; keep hay, water and salt licks away from where the horse stretches out. Ensure doors and feeders dont obstruct getting up or down. Why It Matters: Adequate, uncluttered space makes recumbency and rising safer and more frequent. Common Mistake: Cramped stables or fixtures crowding the lying area. Area: Social sightlines What To Do: Use barred partitions or fit safe talk windows so horses can see and smell neighbours; avoid full solid sides where safe. Improve airflow without draughts. Why It Matters: Social contact lowers vigilance and increases willingness to lie down. Common Mistake: Isolating horses behind solid walls that promote watchfulness. Area: Night lighting & noise What To Do: Set a firm lights-out, use dim red light only for essential checks, and keep nights quiet; secure rattly doors and avoid late-night rug swaps or mucking out. Consider gentle sound masking for intermittent bangs. Why It Matters: Predictable darkness and low noise reduce sleep fragmentation. Common Mistake: Frequent bright checks and noisy routines that keep horses on alert. Area: Temperature & rugging What To Do: Rug for comfort, not fashion; match weight to clip, condition and stable microclimate, and check under the rug (should feel warm, not hot or sweaty). Adjust gradually with weather shifts. Why It Matters: Overheating or chill both reduce recumbency time. Common Mistake: Choosing rug weight by forecast alone and missing under-rug sweat. Area: Monitor recumbency What To Do: Look for body prints, shavings on shoulders/flanks and respiration patches each morning; if unsure, record 72 hours with an infrared camera and log lights-out and checks. Review frequency and duration of lying bouts. Why It Matters: You cant improve what you dont measure, and REM requires lying down. Common Mistake: Assuming the horse lies down because the bed looks tidy. Area: Pain & health audit What To Do: If lying is absent, involve your vet/ACPAT physio; check back, hocks/stifles, ulcers, saddle fit and feet. Address pain before changing management. Why It Matters: Pain suppresses recumbency and can lead to dangerous sleep deprivation. Common Mistake: Adding more bedding or gadgets without ruling out pain. Area: Forage & bedtime routine What To Do: Provide enough hay to last the night and establish a calm 10-minute lights-out routine (quiet groom, sip check, rugs checked by hand). Then leave the barn settled. Why It Matters: Consistent forage and cues promote relaxation and continuous sleep. Common Mistake: Letting forage run out or making disruptive late-night changes. In This Guide How much sleep do horses need? Why does recumbency matter so much? What bedding depth and type helps horses sleep? What stable design and space promote better sleep? How should I manage lighting, routines, temperature and noise at night? How should I monitor my horses sleep in a UK yard? Sleep-friendly stable checklist (UK-ready) Most horses will work, eat and behave perfectly normally while running a sleep deficit until they cant. In UK yards where overnight stabling is common for months on end, getting sleep right is a quiet but critical part of welfare and performance.Key takeaway: Most stabled UK horses need around 3.5 hours total sleep per night, including roughly 30 minutes of REM lying down; you can improve this consistently with 15 cm deep bedding, adequate space (12 m+), social contact, calm routines, and temperature-appropriate rugging.How much sleep do horses need?In stables, horses typically achieve around 3.5 hours of total sleep per night, with about 30 minutes of REM sleep and most of the remainder as slow-wave sleep. This pattern was described in a 2019 monitoring study summarised here: Equine Behaviourist.Horses distribute sleep across short bouts, day and night, but the core consolidated block usually happens overnight in the stable. The same research notes roughly 15% of a horses total sleep is REM (around half an hour), while about 65% is slow-wave (non-REM). Crucially, horses need to be recumbent (lying down) to achieve REM; when lying is limited, REM is reduced and the horse compensates with micro-sleeps or unstable drowsing while standing neither is a safe or sustainable substitute.Think of a good nights sleep as just as important as balanced forage and sound hoof care. It is a daily welfare need, and it is within your control.Why does recumbency matter so much?Horses only achieve REM sleep safely when lying down; when they dont lie down enough, they can become sleep-deprived and even collapse. In a study of 36 horses, between 4 and 199 collapse events were recorded across 24 hours in severely sleep-deprived individuals, with 86% occurring during or just before REM attempts while standing (source).Common red flags for sleep debt include new knee or fetlock scuffs, a nodding head while drowsing, frequent startling awake, reluctance to lie down, and grumpiness or hypersensitivity when handled. The lead researcher on the collapse work issued a clear warning:"Horse owners need to be aware that the sleeping behaviour of horses is an important thing to consider. It is important to recognize the symptoms as soon as possible but prevention is essential."If your horse has suddenly stopped lying down, rule out pain first back issues, hock or stifle discomfort, ulcers, poorly fitting tack, or post-dentistry soreness all reduce willingness to recumb. Consult your vet (ideally a BEVA-member practice) or an ACPAT-qualified physio. Once pain is addressed, your management can reliably improve sleep quality.What bedding depth and type helps horses sleep?Provide at least 15 cm (6 inches) of clean, dry bedding; deeper beds increase both non-REM and REM sleep compared with 5 cm beds. Hartpury University researchers reported that horses on 15 cm bedding spent significantly more time in both sleep phases than on 5 cm, a finding summarised by The Horse (source).Depth is the non-negotiable. Type also matters for comfort and dryness across UK seasons. In Hartpury observations, horses on straw spent 29% of their nocturnal time recumbent compared with 12% on shavings (difference not statistically significant, p>0.05), but this aligns with a broader picture: thicker, softer, drier beds encourage lying down (source).In a wet British winter, deep, absorbent shavings are practical for keeping the lying area dry in unheated stables, while straw can be excellent for warmth and cushioning if you can manage wet patches daily. Expect to invest 515 per bale depending on type and brand; aim to start with enough to achieve 15 cm depth across the entire bed, then top up weekly to maintain it as the season progresses."We are starting to see more how we can impact the amount of sleep a horse achieves from bedding practices. This could mean that we could have a happier horse, and that would, of course, increase equine welfare and potentially performance." Amber Matthews, MSc, Hartpury University (source)How to implement today:Measure depth with a ruler at several points; aim for 15 cm minimum, including under the ribs and flank (not just in the centre).Switch gradually from thin to deep beds over 23 days to avoid sudden changes; bank sides to prevent casting and to recycle clean material.Remove wet daily; keep the lying area dry right through to the floor. In high-rainfall spells, add an extra bale midweek.In summer, maintain depth but reduce dust; good hygiene reduces coughing and encourages calm rest.Pro tip: Do the kneel test on clean breeches if your knees dont get damp or feel the base mat, your horse likely wont either.What stable design and space promote better sleep?Give an average horse at least 12 m of stable space and use barred partitions to allow social contact; both increase recumbency and reduce disturbed standing sleep. A third of collapsing horses in one study lacked sufficient space per German guidelines (12 m), and Hartpury work found solid-walled stables reduced standing sleep and recumbency compared with barred designs (source; source).Space allows a horse to step down and get up without fear of hitting walls or feeders. Social visibility reduces vigilance; horses are herd animals, and seeing or hearing companions lowers the perceived threat level, freeing them to lie down. On busy UK livery yards, simple design tweaks pay off fast:Swap solid brick sides for secure barred grilles or top-halves where yard policy allows.Keep hay, water and salt licks away from the central lying patch so the horse can stretch out.Ensure doors open smoothly and are free from rattles that disrupt drowsing horses.For larger horses or those with arthritis, extra space over 12 m makes rising easier and safer.Quick tip: If you cant alter walls, fit a safe talk window or grill to give sightlines and airflow without compromising safety.How should I manage lighting, routines, temperature and noise at night?Keep nights dark and quiet with minimal disturbances; studies show blue-enriched day/red night LED systems perform similarly to standard fluorescent lighting for sleep outcomes, so focus on consistency. A 2023 collaboration found no significant differences in total sleep, recumbency or blink rates between lighting types (source).This means your priority is a predictable, low-stress night-time routine:Set a firm lights-out time; use dim red night lights only where essential for safety.Avoid late-night rug swaps, injections or noisy mucking-out that wake the whole barn.Feed the last forage before lights-out, then leave the barn calm; reserve checks for genuine need.If overnight checks are necessary (e.g., competition horses), use a head torch on red mode and move quietly.Temperature comfort underpins recumbency. Rug for comfort, not fashion: overheating is strongly associated with reduced lying. Match rug weight to the horses clip, condition and the stables microclimate; in typical UK winters (often 010C), unheated stables can feel colder with damp air movement, so adjust gradually and check under the rug at the shoulder and girth line your hand should feel warm, not hot or sweaty. Our range of breathable stable rugs and weatherproof turnout rugs from brands like WeatherBeeta and Shires gives you options to fine-tune warmth without trapping moisture.Noise matters too. Reduce startling sounds by securing doors and using rubber matting under bolt plates. Yard-friendly sound masking gentle classical music or soft pink noise can help cover intermittent bangs or wind gusts without keeping horses alert.At Just Horse Riders, we recommend you review night routines at each season change; what worked in October wont necessarily work in February, especially on exposed yards.How should I monitor my horses sleep in a UK yard?Check for recumbency at least occasionally, and if you suspect a problem, record 72 hours with an infrared camera to confirm patterns. Despite 94% of owners recognising the importance of lying down, only 18.07% report monitoring rest behaviour in practice (Nottingham Trent University PhD thesis, 2024).Simple, effective monitoring steps:Look for fresh body prints in the bed, shavings on the shoulder/flank, and clean damp patches from respiration all signs of lying.Log observations for three nights: time lights-out, last forage, any checks, and morning bed condition.Use an IR trail camera (50200) to avoid disturbing the horse; review clips for frequency, duration and comfort of lying bouts.If no recumbency is seen over 4872 hours, escalate: assess bedding depth, space, social contact, and pain with your vet or qualified professional.Quick tip: Horses often take a few nights to acclimatise to new stabling; Hartpury data on riding school horses showed recumbency increasing after four nights as routines settled (source). Give changes time to work, then reassess.Sleep-friendly stable checklist (UK-ready)To help your horse reach that 30 minutes of REM within about 3.5 hours of total nightly sleep, put these actions in place:Depth done right: Maintain a consistent 15 cm bedding depth across the entire bed, not just the centre.Dryness first: In wet spells, add midweek top-ups and remove wet patches daily to keep the lying patch dry.Space to sprawl: Verify at least 12 m for an average horse; bigger horses or those with arthritis may need more.Social sightlines: Fit barred partitions or grills to allow calm contact; avoid full solid sides where safe and permitted.Quiet nights: Set a lights-out time; keep checks minimal and use red light only when necessary.Smart rugging: Adjust to the horse and the stable, not just the forecast; check under-rug warmth by hand. Explore breathable options from LeMieux, WeatherBeeta and Shires.Consistent forage: Provide enough hay to last the night without frantic searching or cribbing that interrupts drowsing.Pain audit: Re-check saddle fit, foot balance and back comfort; involve your vet if lying is still absent.Monitor and adapt: Use a 72-hour IR check if needed; track recumbency frequency and duration.Budget savers: Keep an eye on our Secret Tack Room clearance for seasonal bargains to upgrade rugs or stable kit.Supportive extras: If youre considering calmers or nutritional support, see our range of supplements and discuss choices with your vet for individual needs.Pro tip: Build a 10-minute lights-out routine a final quiet groom of the withers and poll, a last sip check, rugs checked by hand, lights dimmed, and you exit calmly. A consistent cue helps many horses settle. Our grooming essentials make that last check smooth and soothing.For a nice association with bedtime, a small, low-sugar reward when you close up can cue relaxation; browse our thoughtful treats if that fits your horses diet.FAQsHow much should my horse lie down at night in a UK stable?Aim for regular recumbency that allows around 30 minutes of REM sleep within roughly 3.5 hours of total nightly sleep. If your horse isnt lying down some nights, investigate quickly persistent absence of recumbency risks sleep deprivation and even collapse (source).Does bedding type affect sleep in wet UK winters?Yes but depth and dryness are the priorities. Hartpury observations found horses on straw spent 29% of nocturnal time recumbent versus 12% on shavings (not statistically significant), while separate work showed 15 cm deep beds significantly increase both REM and non-REM sleep compared with 5 cm (source; source). In damp, unheated UK stables, deep, absorbent shavings or well-managed straw both work when kept dry.What causes horses to collapse in stables?Severe sleep deprivation is a major cause. In one monitored group, individual horses recorded between 4 and 199 collapses in 24 hours, 86% occurring during or just before attempted REM while standing (source). Triggers include pain, inadequate bedding depth, insufficient space, and disrupted routines address these urgently and consult your vet.Is LED lighting better for stabled horses at night?For sleep outcomes, blue-enriched day/red night LED systems performed similarly to standard fluorescent lighting in a 2023 study (no significant differences in total sleep, recumbency or blink rates). Prioritise consistent lightdark cycles and calm nights over chasing a specific bulb type (source).Do UK horse owners monitor sleep enough?No. Only 18.07% of owners in a UK survey reported monitoring their horses rest behaviour, despite 94.38% recognising the importance of recumbency (source). Add recumbency checks to your routine and use a 72-hour IR camera review if you suspect a problem.How does stable design impact rest?Barred partitions that allow social contact improve recumbency and standing sleep compared with solid walls (p<0.05; source). Adequate floor area (12 m+ for an average horse) also reduces reluctance to lie down; cramped spaces were overrepresented among collapsing horses (source).How do I know my stable is big enough?As a rule of thumb aligned with European/UK welfare guidance, provide at least 12 m for an average horse (more for bigger breeds). The proof is in behaviour: if your horse rarely lies down or struggles to rise without touching walls or fixtures, increase space or reconfigure the layout.Sleep is the quiet foundation of soundness, behaviour and performance. With a deeper bed, better sightlines, calmer nights and climate-smart rugging, you can transform your horses rest and their day-to-day happiness. If youre upgrading kit to support those changes, explore breathable stable rugs, weather-smart turnout rugs and trusted brands like WeatherBeeta and Shires to get the details right. Shop the Essentials Everything mentioned in this guide, ready to browse. Shop Stable RugsShop Turnout RugsShop WeatherBeetaShop ShiresShop Grooming Kit

Justin Burke is the double breeder this week and the Cooley prefix takes 7 T10Ps.Another god selection of Irish bred horses across all classes.See below the up-to-date results for this week Ocala Winter I Horse Trials (USA) 6th 8th February 2026Advanced / Intermediate3rd Direct Advance (ISH) 2011 gelding by Night Cruise (ISH)[TIH] out of Herbst Jennie B (ISH) by Concorde (KWPN). Breeder: Noel Good (Tyrone). Rider: Zachary Brandt (USA) 37.7, 0, 9.2 = 46.96th Ratheoin Quality Imp (ISH) 2017 gelding by OBOS Quality 004 (OLD) out of Coonogues Dawn (ISH) by Master Imp (TB). Breeder: Sean Barron. Rider: Lisa Marie Fergusson (CAN) 37.1, 0, 19.2 = 56.3.Open Intermediate A2nd HSH Connor (ISH)[was Galwaybay Connor & Galwaybay Redfield HSH Connor] 2016 gelding by Connor 48 (HOLST) out of Galwaybay Merstona (ISH) by Mermus R (KWPN). Breeder: Justin Burke. Rider: Caroline Pamukcu (USA) 24.4, 0, 17.2 = 41.65th Gortglass Lupin (ISH) 2017 gelding by Luidam (KWPN) out of Gortglas Skye (ISH)[TIH] by Master Imp (TB). Breeder: Sian Carson Ball. Rider: Gabby Dickerson (USA) 29.0, 0, 18.0 = 47.0.Open Intermediate B7th HSH Tolan King (ISH) 2015 gelding by Tolan R (KWPN) out of Kilmolash Clover Rhodes (ISH)[TIH] by Porter Rhodes (TB). Breeder: William OBrien. Rider: Caroline Pamukcu (USA) 36.0, 0, 26.0 = 62.0.Open Intermediate One Day7th Excel Star Montgomery (ISH)(was Lachain ES Montgomery) 2018 gelding by Lancelot (KWPN) out of Lachain Jet (ISH) by Je TAime Flamenco (BWP). Breeder: Tom Lenihan. Rider: Hanna Hansen (CAN) 32.1, 12, 17.6 = 61.78th HSH Blake (ISH)[was Galwaybay Blake & Galwaybay HSH Redfield]- 2015 gelding by Tolan R (KWPN) out of Doughiska Lass (ISH) by Kannan (KWPN). Breeder: Justin Burke. Rider: Caroline Pamukcu (USA) 28.5, 4.4, 35.2 = 68.19th Ballygriffin Chacoa Power (ISH)[was Crossfield Sheeco] 2014 mare by Chacoa (HOLST) out of Crossfield Lass (ISH) by High Roller (ISH). Breeder: Martin Crowley. Rider: Danielle Platt (USA) 46.2, 0, 23.6 = 69.8.Open Preliminary A4th Lux Like Love (ISH) 2018 mare by Je Taime Flamenco (BWP) out of Lux San by Lux Z. Breeder: Samanthewr Fegan. Rider: Lizzie Hoff (USA) 31.1, 0, 4.0 = 35.15th WHS Lincoln Supreme (ISH) 2018 gelding by Mr Lincoln (ISH) out of Wineport Supreme (ISH) by Courage II (HOLST). Breeder: Michael OSulivan. Rider: Alyssa Phillips (USA) 31.1, 0, 6.0 = 37.19th Cajun Quality (ISH)[was Birrinview Dazzler] 2017 gelding by Dakar VDL (KWPN) out of Birrinview Holly (ISH)[TIH] by Cougar (ISH)[TIH]. Breeder: Cyril Stephens. Rider: Ashley Hays (USA) 32.1, 0, 9.2 = 41.3.Open Preliminary B6th Luska Candy Clover [ISH][was HSH Luska Legend] 2013 gelding by Sligo Candy Boy [ISH] out of Miss Demeanor [ISH] by White Clover (ISH)[TIH]. Breeder: Amie Sterling (Tipperary). Rider: Jack Curtis (USA) 32.6, 4, 4.0 = 40.68th 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) 34.7, 0, 9.2 = 43.9.Open Preliminary One Day A5th Ballygriffin Chacoa Power (ISH)[was Crossfield Sheeco] 2014 mare by Chacoa (HOLST) out of Crossfield Lass (ISH) by High Roller (ISH). Breeder: Martin Crowley. Rider: Danielle Platt (USA) 28.2, 4, 6.4 = 38.68th HSH Henry (ISH)[was Twizzler] 2017 gelding by Sligo Candy Boy (ISH) out of Silverfoot (TB)[IRL] by Bravefoot (TB). Breeder: Elizabeth Murphy. Rider: Katelyn Smith (USA) 33.2, 4, 7.2 = 44.410th Carsontown Basil (ISH)[was Carsonstown Basil] 2018 gelding by Lougherne Cappuchino (HOLST) out of Graf Unique (ISH) by Ustinov (KWPN). Breeder: Brian Livingstone. Rider: Elinor ONeil (USA) 37.1, 0, 13.2 = 50.3.Open Preliminary One Day B2nd Greenhall Good Decision (ISH)[was Grenhall Illuminator] 2017 gelding by ARS Vivendi (HOLST) out of Greenhall Indicator (ISH) by Limmerick (HOLST). Breeder: Derry Rothwell. Rider: Sydney Elliott (USA) 24.7, 0, 9.6 = 34.35th Wineport Stephanie (ISH) 2017 mare by Hector Van DAbdijhoeve (BWP) out of Wineport Angel (ISH) by Lux Z (HANN). Breeder: Michael OSullivan. Rider: Kelly Prather (USA) 27.9, 0.4, 16.8 = 45.19th Hillside Diamond Lad CF (ISH)[TIH] 2017 gelding by Lionwood Kinsales Lad (ID) out of Wedding Day (TB) by With Approval (TB). Breeder: Sarah Cleary. Rider: Liz Lund (USA) 32.6, 8, 8.8 = 49.4.Open Preliminary & Year Old3rd 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) 31.1, 0, 9.2 = 40.34th HTF Cosmic Cooley (ISH)[was Cookstown Sparrow] 2019 mare by Coupe de Coeur (HOLST) out of Gortglass Sparrow (ISH)[TIH] by Ashfield Bobby Sparrow (CP). Breeder: Donal Callery. Rider: Lee Maher (IRL) 35.3, 4, 7.6 = 46.9.Preliminary Horse1st Centerfold (ISH) (was Belline Jack the Lad) 2019 gelding by Sligo Candy Boy (ISH) out of Temple Polly (KWPN) by Animo (KWPN). Breeder: Richard Ames. Rider: Alyssa Phillips (USA) 25.5, 0, 4.8 = 30.32nd NDS Jackson (ISH) 2019 gelding by Jack the Robin (TB) out of Killycloghan Mayfair (ISH) by Hold Up Premier (SF). Breeder: Noel Dunne. Rider: Michelle Mercier (USA) 27.1, 4, 4.8 = 35.9.Preliminary Rider6th Ardeo Lord Lancelot (ISH)[was Oldstone Lord of Lisray] 2014 gelding by Lancelot (KWPN) out of Little Lou (OLD) by Landfriese (OLD). Breeder: John McNiece (Antrim). Rider: Eileen Galoostian (USA) 30.3, 0, 10.0 = 40.310th 24 Karat Fernhill (ISH)[was Rado Star] 2012 gelding by Radolin (KWPN) out of Cendry Nouvolieu (SF) by Tresor de Cheux (SF). Breeder: Ronan Byrne (Carlow). Rider: Catherine Shu (USA) 34.7, 0, 16.0 = 50.7.Open Modified A2nd MBF Firebrand (ISH)[was Tyson Knight] 2017 gelding by Tyson (KWPN) out of Coevers Gold (ISH) by Coevers Diamond Boy (ISH). Breeder: Angela Kelly. Rider: Chris Talley (USA) 29.8, 0, 0.0 = 29.86th Crazy Trend (ISH)[was Griffanisthefuture] 2014 mare by Future Trend (OLD) out of Fanningstown Maid (ISH) by Alibero (OLD). Breeder: Richard Barron Jnr. Rider: Kathryn Surasky (USA) 33.3, 4, 2.8 = 40.17th Kiltar Midnight Rendezvous (ISH) 2018 gelding by Future Trend (OLD) out of Kiltar Arya (ISH)[TIH] by Kerry Stone (ISH)[TIH]. Breeder: John Costello. Rider: Ariel Grald (USA) 32.5, 4, 4.0 = 40.59th Lisdara Bravo (ISH)[was Fernhill Bravo] 2014 gelding by an unrecorded sire out of Lisdara Impish Lady (ISH)[TIH] by Master Imp (TB). Breeder: Grainne Gormley. Rider: Heather Navarrete (USA) 29.5, 0, 16.4 = 45.9.Open Modified B5th In Vogue (ISH)[was Ballymolloy Monbeg Vogue] 2016 mare by Future Trend (OLD) out of Ballymolly Hollyhock (ISH) by Lester Lad (TB). Breeder: Gill Langford. Rider: Kendyl Tracy (USA) 26.0, 0, 4.8 = 30.86th Monbeg Capricorn (ISH)[was Be Capricorn] 2016 gelding by Capri Van Overis Z (ZANG) out of ESI Lady (ISH) by Guidam (SF). Breeder: Catherine Curran. Rider: Lauren Hoover (USA) 33.3, 0, 1.6 = 34.97th Cavalier Monte Carla (ISH) 2014 mare by Cavalier Land [ISH}out of Umhslanga [ISH] by Cruising (ISH)[TIH]. Breeder: Peter Rice. Rider: Tiffany Trotter (USA) 35.5, 4, 2.4 = 41.9.Open Modified One Day7th Garrybritt Rupert (ISH) 2019 gelding by Ramiro B (BWP) out of Garryritt Tinkerbell (ISH) by Ricardo Z (ZANG). Breeder: Terry White. Rider: Rebecca Brown (USA) 31.3, 0, 7.2 = 38.5.Pine Top Intermediate Horse Trials (USA) 6th 8th February 2026Advanced / Intermediate2nd Fernhill Salt Lake (ISH)[was Haw Minister] 2015 gelding by My O My (HOLST) out of Salt Lake City (ISH)[TIH] by Yeats (ISH)[TIH]. Breeder: James Hickey. Rider: Waylon Roberts (CAN) 35.0, 8, 7.2 = 50.23rd Slieve Callan Alpha (ISH) 2013 gelding by Porsch (BWP) out of Gi Miz Minx (ISH) by Courage II (HOLST). Breeder: Niamh Tottenham (Clare). Rider: Waylon Roberts (CAN) 39.4, 5.6, 8.8 = 53.84th Fernhill Cardevega (ISH)[was Cardevga] 2017 gelding by Cardento (HOLST) out of Quevega (ISH) by ARS Vivendi (HOLST). Breeder: Fionnuala Byrne. Rider: Ive Cullen-Dean (USA) 38.5, 6.8, 25.6 = 70.9.Only 4 FinishedOpen Intermediate A3rd Kokoleka (ISH)[was Belline Castle Pacino Candy] 2018 mare by Sligo Candy Boy (ISH) out of Castle Pacino (ISH) by Pacino (BWP). Breeder: Noel Ruane. Rider: Kate Brown (USA) 31.7, 0, 8.8 = 40.54th Vandyke (ISH) 2014 gelding by Vancouver (KWPN) out of Shannondale Willow [ISH] by Touchdown (ISH). Breeder: Deborah Palmer (Derry). Rider: Allison Springer (USA) 33.1, 0, 11.2 = 44.39th KBS Curious Quality (ISH)[was KBS Pirate Cove] 2017 gelding by OBOS Quality 004 (OLD) out of Pirate Fairy (ISH)[TIH] by Cruising (ISH)[TIH]. Breeder: Kieran Kennedy. Rider: Kristine Burgess (USA) 35.0, 2.8, 20.0 = 57.810th Cooley Corraghy Diamond (ISH) 2017 gelding by Diamond Roller (ISH) out of Seoladh (ISH)[TIH] by Cruising (ISH)[TIH]. Breeder: John Kenny. Rider: Kimberly Severson (USA) 27.9, 4, 31.6 = 63.5.Open Intermediate B2nd Monbeg Zebedee (ISH) 2017 gelding by Dignified Vant Zorgvliet (BWP) out of Bolacreane Dolly (ISH)[TIH] by Cult Hero (TB). Breeder: Marti Rudd. Rider: Alison Springer (USA) 31.5, 0, 14.0 = 45.53rd Cooley Flight (ISH) 2012 gelding by Plot Blue (KWPN) out of Making Moments (ISH)[TIH] by Laughtons Flight (ISH)[TIH]. Breeder: Julie Graham (Down). Rider: Ryan Wood (AUS) 36.5, 4, 10.8 = 51.35th Cooley Continental (ISH)[was Woodview Continental] 2015 gelding by Tolan R (KWPN) out of Woodview Douglas Cruise (ISH) by ARD VDL Douglas (KWPN). Breeder: Gerard Ryan. Rider: Amy Cobb (USA) 38.1, 0, 16.8 = 54.98th HSH Crypto (ISH)[was Pavoda] 2016 gelding by Casallco (ISH) out of Cumano Kiss (ISH) by Lux Z (HANN). Breeder: Carol A McLaughlin. Rider: Sydney Shinn (USA) 42.7, 4.4, 12.8 = 59.9.Open Preliminary Friday A1st Cooley Consort (ISH)[was Rose Candy] 2017 mare by Sligo Candy Boy (ISH) out of Burnfort Lass (ISH)[TIH] by Coolcronan Wood (ID). Breeder: Sandra Duffy. Rider: Kim Severson (USA) 27.6, 4, 3.2 = 34.83rd P.S. I Love You (ISH) 2016 gelding by FSS Correlli Bravo (ISH) out of Woodmount Queen (ISH)[TIH] by Crannagh Hero (ID). Breeder: Kevin Dooley. Rider: Alexandra Knowles (USA) 32.1, 0, 16.8 = 48.94th Baymax (ISH) 2013 gelding by ARD Vivendi (HOLST) out of Olympics Corner (ISH) by Olympic Lux (KWPN). Breeder: Mary Quirke (Tipperary). Rider: Colin Gaffney (USA) 37.1, 4, 14.0 = 55.1.Open Preliminary Friday B4th Seabanks Theygo (ISH) 2014 gelding by Dinan Danny [ISH] out of Diamond Starr (ID) by Glidawn Diamond (ID). Breeder: Andrew Waldron (Wicklow). Rider: Claire Strehlow (USA) 34.5, 8.4, 6.0 = 48.95th Clooney R (ISH)[was Excel Star Heart Throb] 2017 gelding by Tolan R (KWPN) out of Tiny Tess (ISH) by Gurraun Golden Eye (ID). Breeder: Fiona McRobert. Rider: Ryan Wood (AUS) 35.3, 4, 9.6 = 48.99th MGH Mr Messack (ISH) 2015 gelding by Pointilliste (TB) out of Oldyard Diamond (ISH) by Diamond Serpent (ISH). Breeder: Michael Doyle. Rider: Lucia Strini (USA) 34.7, 4, 19.2 = 57.9.Open Preliminary A6th Fernhill Royale (ISH)[was Cavalier Trumps] (ISH) 2009 by Cavalier Royale (HOLST) out of Greenacres Trumps (ISH)[TIH] by Ballinvella (TB). Breeder: Michael Callery. Rider: Mai Petersen (USA) 36.6, 2.8, 10.4 = 49.89th MBF Gambler (ISH) 2017 gelding by Ramiro B (BWP) out of Monalease (TB) by Terimon (TB). Breeder: Brian Flynn. Rider: Kim Wendel (USA) 42.1, 0, 13.2 = 55.3.Open Preliminary B1st Shanroe Cooley (ISH)[was Shanroe Italk] 2015 gelding by Dallas VDL (BWP) out of Shanroe Saphire (ISH) by Condios (HOLST). Breeder: Anthony Smyth (Down). Rider: Boyd Martin (USA) 27.1, 0, 8.0 = 35.12nd Fernhill Domino (ISH)[was Unbelievable Candy] 2017 gelding by Sligo Candy Boy (ISH) out of Unbelievable Cappolla (SHB) by Unbelievable Darco (BWP). Breeder: Emily Smallman. Rider: Ryan Wood (AUS) 32.4, 0, 5.6 = 38.03rd HHS Cooley. [was HHS Apache] (ISH) 2004 gelding by Clover Echo (ISH) out of Flown. (ISH) by Imperius (TB). Breeder: Thomas Hughes (Kilkenny). Rider: Lillian Heard Wood (USA) 32.9, 0, 12.4 = 45.310th GoldenEye 007 (ISH)[was Rosco Ranger] 2018 gelding by Goodluck VDL (KWPN) out of Cuffesgrange Sensation (ISH) by OBOS Quality 004 (OLD). Breeder: Joe Connaughton. Rider: Heather Bush (USA) 31.6, 8, 49.6 = 89.2.Preliminary Junior and Young Riders.2nd Altaskin Jack (ISH) 2009 gelding by ARS Vivendi (HOLST) out of Madam Katie (ISH)[TIH] by Master Imp (TB). Breeder: Meta Faulkner. Rider: Megan Hopkins (USA) 36.1, 8, 0.0 = 44.1.Open Modified6th Dartans Hillcrest (ISH)[was Dartans Shine A Light] 2014 gelding by OBOB Quality 004 (OLD)out of Dartans Valerie (ISH) by Harlequin du Carel (SF). Breeder: Louise Lyons. Rider: Lara Gabrie (HON) 34.0, 0, 14.0 = 48.07th Pine Top Penny Belline (ISH) 2020 mare by Tullabeg Fusion (ISH) out of Ballinamonapark Honey (ISH) by Irko (TRAK). Breeder: Vahe Bogossian. Rider: Kylie Cahoon (USA) 30.3, 0, 40.0 = 70.3.These results have been provided to Horse Sport Ireland by Charlie Ripman.These results are funded by Horse Sport Ireland.The post Ten Top 10 Places for the HSH Prefix in the USA appeared first on .

Galwegian bags first five-star in Bordeaux World Cup as Coyle brothers prosper in FloridaFormer maths teacher, Jessica Burke secured her maiden five-star show jumping success at an exalted level, bagging the Longines FEI Jumping World Cup class in Bordeaux on Saturday with her rising star, Good Star du Bary.It was a week in which the Coyle siblings, Jordan and Daniel, had a wonderful time in Florida, with the older brother scoring at five-star level in Wellington, while the new World No 9 was a dual winner, who narrowly missed out on replicating the Grand Prix double of the previous weekend, in Ocala.But there was no question who stole the headlines from an Irish perspective, as Burke was the talk of the country following her stunning triumph over a world-class field in France.The win moves her up to seventh on the Western European League table, which more or less assures her of a spot in the lucrative final in Fort Worth, next April.To make things even better for the one-time teacher at Calsanctius College in Oranmore, her chief backer, Liam Nicholas was in attendance as he celebrated a major personal milestone, and the Gort native also had family in friends in attendance.You could call it fate, but there is no escaping performance and Burke and the Nicholas-owned Good Star du Bary certainly delivered the perfect one.The synchronicity between this pair has been evident as they developed through last years international programme especially and show jumpings Galway Girl was coolness personified as the last athlete of only four combos to participate in the jump-off after the initial 13-obstacle test claimed a host of casualties.Yann Royants decisive examination proved even stiffer. None of the first three pairs were equal to it and the standard to beat was a four-faulter on 35.72, with Daniel Deusser (GER) in pole position with Otello de Guldenboom.The 34-year-old Irish representative had a decision to make, and she went all-in on making sure of a faultless round. There wasnt a moments doubt either as her French-bred 10-year-old grey lived up to his name, popping each obstacle perfectly to take the considerable spoils of 69,000 and the possibility of so much more in a couple of months time.The emotion was evident in her quivering delivering, as Burke articulately explained the significance of this occasion after she swapped the classroom for full-time show jumping a little more than seven years ago.Its my first World Cup and my first five-star win, she said on FEI TV afterwards.My horse is only ten, but he has just six World Cups now. Five times (he had) one down, but today we were clear. To have patience and wait for your day to come is very hard, so the fact that it has come, I dont think it has sunk in yet to be honestBordeaux is a lucky place for me. I was here only once before two years ago and I won leading rider. This horse has been so close all the time. I was hoping for a top-five finish but I didnt think I could win so I m delighted.Hes the best horse Ive ever ridden. I always knew he could do anything and hes so special.His owner Liam, its his 60th birthday this weekend, hes here with all his family. A lot of my family are here and my best friend from school years ago. Its a bit emotional.I only have one horse at this level at the moment and when its one very good one, he makes my life very easy. In the warm-up hes just relaxed and then he lights up with the crowd.Jordan Coyle has been making a big impact internationally in the past couple of years and he added to his five-star haul when grabbing five-star speed spoils on King Kannan GP at Wellington International on Friday night Irish time, navigating the 1.50m course without blemish in 58 seconds flat.That was almost a second clear of Mark Bluman (COL) on Phelina de Septon, with Richie Vogel (GER) and Iron Dames Abou-Chaker NRW in third.The Ardmore athlete and his 11-year-old chestnut gelding are turning into a feared combination when gears are required and it was an eighth international victory for King Kannan, while the elder Coyle closed in on a century of triumphs following his first on the circuit in 2015, moving to 97.A total of 37 of those wins have come at the highest level, and 13 of them have arrived in the past year, illustrating clearly why he is rising up the Longines world rankings, on the edge of the top 30.Daniel is the highest-ranked Irish show jumper, however, and he marked his return to the top 10 by winning a four-star speed class as the action continued in Ocala, steering Calippo 57 to success on Wednesday night, Irish time.The Derry mans hot run of form in conjunction with the Ariel Grange string at Lothlorien Farm has moved him back up to No 9 among the elite riders and he showed why once more at the famed Florida venue.Coyle and this dashing 10-year-old bay gelding made light of the 1.45m track, jumping a blemish-free round in 64.49 to hold off Chilean Samuel Parot with Tiffany de Olid, who were next best in 64.72.And he nearly topped that by completing a remarkable double-double, falling narrowly short of matching the previous weekends four- and two-star Grand Prix return at the World Equestrian Center.No horse has given more success than Farrel and few have given him as much pleasure, given his successful return to elite jumping after two years in retirement due to injury.The 16-year-old delivered in last weeks four-star Grand Prix and with his flame-haired pilot, was among the septet progressing to the jump-off in Week IV.But despite posting the quickest time of 45.70, which would have earned victory, they rubbed one rail for four faults which knocked them back to third as Briton Jessica Mendoza took the chief honours with a time of 45.87 on In The Air.Shane Sweetnam, whose daughter Olivia (USA) was triumphant at four-star level for the first time in her nascent career three days ago despite being only a year older than Farrel, also returned for the decider with Gilona Ao but it wasnt to be for the Cork native, who had to settle for sixth after recording 15 faults.Daniel Coyle did top the honours with his new mount Urville Z in the two-star Grand Prix on Sunday, however, just as they managed seven days before. They were amongst nine through to the jump-off but with the quickest rivals having been unable to leave all the fences intact, focused on accuracy to deliver once more with a clear in 35.52.I cant say enough good things about her, said Daniel. Shes done two Grands Prix and won both of them. If I can ride her well, shes going to catch the jumps, which is a really nice feeling. Its special because she rarely has a fence down, and if there is one, its my fault. Even in the warm-up, she doesnt miss a fence, and at home she hasnt touched a rail. Shes so special.PHOTO CREDITSJessica Burke: FEI/Artiste-Associ PhotographesJordan Coyle: WEF/Cassidy KleinDaniel Coyle: WEC/Andrew Ryback PhotographyThe post It all adds up for Burke in France appeared first on .

Every horse owner and rider should make time in their busy schedule for grooming, because there are so many benefits for both of you. Grooming a horse doesnt just remove dirt and get their coat to shine its great for their health too and what you have in your grooming kit will make all the difference.A thorough horse grooming session can promote blood circulation and massage muscles, giving some relief to tired limbs and helping warm up a body that is about to work. It also helps remove dead skin cells and stimulates the production of natural oils in the horses coat, which play an important role in keeping them warm and in good condition.Grooming gives you one-on-one time with your horse, which helps you to bond, get to know each other (if youre a new combination) and relax as you simply enjoy each others company. It is also an invaluable opportunity to put your hands on your horse and look and feel for any lumps, swellings, heat or skin issues. Generally speaking, the earlier you spot and deal with this sort of thing the better.Grooming a muddy horseBee had a very dusty coat with a layer of thick, dried mudMy first pony was a grey New Forest, who loved being muddy. So much so that a friend once asked who the new skewbald was in my field. Err, that would be my very dirty fleabitten grey. I like to give horses time in the field without rugs on as much as possible because I know its good for them, but it does mean allowing for an extra-long grooming session to remove said mud before I can ride again.Your Horse asked Jess Errington, head girl for one of Great Britains leading event riders,Harry Meade, for her tips to transform a mud monster into a horse whos competition-ready when you have limited time to spend brushing. These came in very handy recently when I brought my ex-racehorse Bee in from the field and we had a hunter trial to get to Check out the photographic evidence above!Step 1: clean feet and legsIf your horses feet and legs are muddy, hose them and pick out their feet. Depending on how muddy they are and the temperature on the day, Id boil a kettle so I can give them a warm, soapy rub down too, says Jess. Its quicker and easier to wash muddy legs than try to brush the mud off, but dont wash too often as it weakens the skin and could increase the chances of mud fever. Always dry a horses legs thoroughly when theyre wet as this will help to prevent mud fever and other skin conditions. I like to apply talcum power to white legs because it helps to dry them, as well as making them whiter.Step 2: tackle a dirty tailGive the bottom of your horses tail a shampoo. Tail washing doesnt take long a dunk, a scrub and a good rinse does the job, says Jess. If you only wash the bottom of the tail, a cold-water rinse is just as good, otherwise youll have to wait for the kettle. Your horse isnt going to feel the cold, only you are although you could don rubber gloves to help.Having washing up liquid or white-enhancing shampoo in your kit is great for cleaning grey tails and white legs. Add beeswax polish, baby oil or conditioning spray to the tail before combing through, then snip the ends for a neat finish.Step 3: body beautifulIf your horse isnt as muddy on their body, mane and head, a quick but thorough groom with a dandy brush will loosen the mud, then flick it away, advises Jess. If youve had to apply water to get rid of thicker mud, use a mesh or wicking rug to help them dry. Stable or grass stains can be removed with a dry shampoo, then remove any remaining dust with a body brush.If you havent got enough time to bath really grubby areas, hot-cloth them using hot (but not too hot) water with a splash of Dettol or baby oil and a well wrung-out flannel. This probably isnt necessary to ride or hack at home, but if youre getting ready for a competition it really helps.Step 4: final touchesIf youre preparing your horse for a competition, this last step of the process is for you:Once at the show, spray some coat shine over his body, avoiding where your saddle sits, advises Jess. A microfibre cloth can also add great shine in the absence of sprays. Give your tack a final polish, and then apply oil to your horses hooves and baby oil over their muzzle, knees and hocks. Now your horse will look smart enough to stand out, and nobody ever needs to know you got them ready in 30 minutes.Tail careAvoid brushing tails too oftenWhen you brush your horses tail, have you noticed loose hairs left in your hand afterwards? Me too and as a life-long rider of Thoroughbreds with fine hair I do worry about the damage brushing does to their tail. I like to keep them doused with detangleras I find that less mud sticks to it and only brushing when I really need to. Jess agrees.I dont believe in brushing horses tails every day, she says, as it tears out the hairs and before you know it you will have a very thin tail that will take forever to grow back and, lets face it, it wont look great.I only comb a tail through when the horse is going to a competition, continues Jess. Thats when I will also use a dampened plastic mane comb and, from the near (left) side, comb the mane over onto the correct, off (right) side, helping it to lie flat and straight.To gently comb through a tail, start with a small amount of hair at the bottom of the tail and gently work through the whole tail until its completely untangled.Back to my point about using detangler on tails rather than regular brushing: I should add that I dont use detangler on manes, because it makes them slippery. I like to be able to grab hold of a mane should I become unbalanced by some unexpected behaviour (and when you ride ex-racehorses, this can happen a lot!).Grooming a horse to ride at homeSometimes, there just isnt time to give a muddy or dusty horse a really good groom before you ride. Perhaps youre running out of daylight, youre squeezing in some exercise in your lunch hour, you need to get home to cook dinner I get it, lifes busy. On these occasions, I think its acceptable to just brush off essential areas, and Im not the only one who thinks this.I clear the areas where the tack goes so the horse is comfortable being ridden, says Laura White, who has been a groom for over 17 years. If they are really muddy, I use a rubber curry comb to get the mud off and then give them a good flick off with a dandy brush. I use a plastic curry comb for manes and if they look really dusty and Im going for a hack, I might use a damp cloth to remove excess dust.Lauras horses are turned out again after riding, so they soon get muddy again anyway.I use my hands to pick off the big clumps of mud that the brushes wont get through, especially around their sensitive ears and eyes, adds Laura.Lauras top tip for coat care is putting a summer sheet on your horse underneath their stable or turnout rug just be mindful that this wont make them too hot.The summer sheets are much easier to wash and having clean rugs on helps to keep coats in good condition and prevents horses getting greasy, she says.Top grooming tipsRemember that after-exercise coat care is just as important as the grooming you did before you tacked up. If your horse has sweated, use a damp sponge or cloth to wipe the sweat away. On a hot day you might be hosing your horse off after a ride. If so, make sure you brush the saddle area and around the ears while they are still wet. Dried sweat is a nightmare to get out with a brush and it could irritate your horses skin if left on.It is advisable to untie a horse while brushing their head, just in case they protest and try to run backwards. Only using a soft brush will help keep them happy.Pulled tails look smart and are many riders preference Jess Errington keeps all her horses tails pulled, for example but a lot of horses (understandably) are not keen on having it done. For horses who find tail pulling painful, having them sedated by a vet will help. Tie it in with a teeth check-up or clipping to make it cost effective. Your Horse testers have reviewed several humane thinners find out which they rate best here.Always brush in the direction of hair growth in your horses coat. Try running your hand the wrong way through your own hair and youll soon understand why this is recommended.Dont brush too hard around sensitive areas, such as the eyes. Take note of any areas where your horse is ticklish or unhappy about being groomed and adapt your horse grooming routine accordingly.Which brush when?A flick brush is often used first when groomingInside Jess Erringtons grooming box you will find:A good flick brush (or dandy brush)A relatively soft body brushPlastic curry combTail brushLong plastic mane combHoof pick and hoof oil.Other brushes are available, so add the right ones to suit you and your horse to your own grooming kit. A rubber curry comb, for example, used in circular motions on your horses coat effectively gives them a mini massage, helping to tone up his muscles and increase blood flow theyll love it! As you use the rubber curry comb to massage all over their body, youll start to remove the dead and loose hair, which is the first step towards a nice coat shine. Like Laura, a rubber curry comb is my first brush of choice when faced with a muddy horse. Do what works for you.I start a grooming session by using my flick brush all over the horses body, including their legs, states Jess. I then move on to my soft body brush and plastic curry comb used one after the other and I give the horse a thorough groom, almost like strapping a firm action with long strokes, designed to get the blood flowing and feel a bit like a massage. This gets the horse clean, encourages circulation and helps to warm up the muscles too.How to hot clothHot clothing can help to remove dirt and grimeA body brush is great for removing dust and any dirt and loose hair from the top of your horses coat, as well as creating the perfect starting point for hot clothing. Hot clothing helps to lift any of the dirt or grime that brushing alone has missed.In order to hot cloth, use an old towel soaked in water thats as hot as you can touch with your own hand. For added shine when the coat dries, try adding a dash of baby oil to your bucket of hot water. Rub the towel all over your horses body to lift any lingering grease or dirt and leave the coat spotless.Coat shine: other factorsOf course, how good you are at horse grooming isnt the only factor in coat shine. Good condition starts on the inside with correct nutrition. The biggest influence on coat condition is your horses overall health, so it pays to start with the basics: think about their worming programme, teeth condition, general health, and diet.Firstly, make sure you are feeding enough forage and secondly, make sure your horses diet is fully balanced. Nutrient deficiencies can affect coat condition so providing your horse with a well-balanced diet is the key to producing a healthy horse on the inside, as well as a lovely shiny coat on the outside. Nutritionist Clare Barfoot explains more about this here.Related contentHorses love getting muddy and they need to roll outside every day, experts sayAlan Davies grooming brushes range, plus the top grooms daily grooming routineHorse grooming vacuum: what they are, how they work and where to buy oneHow to keep any mane looking trim, tidy and looking smartHow to plait a horses tailThe post Horse grooming: expert advice for a mud- and dust-free coat that shines appeared first on Your Horse.

11 min read Last updated: January 2026 Battling ditch nerves or run-outs on cross-country? Learn a calm, proven plan to build rock-solid ditch confidence with once-weekly focused schooling, so you finish every session on a win and unlock smoother, safer rounds that stick for competition day all season. Quick Summary Short on time? Here are the key takeaways. Area: Progressive Exposure What To Do: Start with tiny, shallow ditches and trot them quietly. Stack a few easy repetitions and finish on a good effort. Why It Matters: Gentle, repeatable wins create lasting ditch confidence. Common Mistake: Jumping bigger, faster or in combinations before the horse is ready. Area: Weekly Schooling What To Do: Plan one ditch-focused session per week, supported by 23 flatwork/pole days and hacking. Skip sessions when footing is poor. Why It Matters: Spaced, quality exposure improves learning and motivation. Common Mistake: Drilling on consecutive days or schooling on unsafe ground. Area: First Ditch Intro What To Do: Choose a well-presented small ditch and approach in a steady rising trot with soft hands. Use a lead horse if needed and finish over a simple fence. Why It Matters: Calm first exposures prevent fear and set a positive template. Common Mistake: Attacking in canter, hanging on the hand, or refusing help. Area: Coffin Canter What To Do: Build a condensed, bouncy canter with transitions and slightly short pole lines. Apply it to small ditches only after trot acceptance, and revert to trot if balance tips. Why It Matters: Balance and quick hindlegs help horses wait and jump cleanly. Common Mistake: Compressing too soon or using speed to create bounce. Area: Match & Coaching What To Do: Pair green riders with experienced horses and work with a BHS Accredited coach. Progress width then depth in small, planned steps. Why It Matters: The right guidance protects confidence for both horse and rider. Common Mistake: Green-on-green combinations without expert input or clear progression. Area: Seasonal Planning What To Do: In winter, hack in company, do weekly polework, and introduce safe ground gaps. In spring, book weekly schooling at varied venues as footing improves. Why It Matters: Keeps confidence growing year-round without welfare trade-offs. Common Mistake: Forcing ditch practice in mud, frost or closed facilities. Area: Rewards & Fixes What To Do: Reward every honest try and keep corrections calm and brief. After a run-out, simplify, widen the line, re-present in trot, or follow a lead. Why It Matters: Fair, timely feedback builds willingness and clarity. Common Mistake: Punishing refusals or ending the session on a failure. Area: Safety & Kit What To Do: Fit protective legwear, wear a current, well-fitted hat, and choose grippy breeches; add hi-vis in low light. Check footing and ditch edges before schooling. Why It Matters: Comfort and protection reduce risk and prevent negative memories. Common Mistake: Skipping protection or riding in unstable, slippery gear. In This Guide What builds ditch confidence fastest? How often should you school ditches? Exactly how to introduce your horse to ditches When to build the coffin canter Matching horse, rider and coach for confidence Seasonal UK plan: winter to event season Rewards, corrections and what to do after a run-out Kit that quietly boosts ditch confidence Ditches are where courage meets training in cross-country. Get them right, and you unlock smooth, confidence-building rounds that set you up for every other technical question on course.Main takeaway: Lasting ditch confidence comes from positive, progressive exposure at the right frequency (once-weekly focused schooling), guided by calm riding and good coaching not from speed, height or punishment.What builds ditch confidence fastest?Positive, progressive exposure to small ditches in trot always finishing on a good experience builds the fastest, most reliable confidence. That means starting tiny, removing pressure, and stacking easy wins so your horse learns ditches are safe, routine and rideable.Olympic eventer Tina Cook is unequivocal that bravery is trained through good experiences:Cross-country is, at its heart, a test of your horses bravery. With this in mind, your main goal in training is to give him positive experiences all the time this is key to instilling courage and acceptance. Tina Cook, Horse & Rider UKConfidence is anchored in prior non-negative experiences. A major review on the psychology of equine performance confirms that too much pressure, too fast, can flip a training task from interesting to aversive, and that confidence is built on a history of non-threatening exposures to the same task. In ditch terms, thats quiet trots over shallow trenches before you ever think about a coffin combination or speed on approach. See the review at the National Institutes of Health: PMC3514365.Varied experience also matters. The British Horse Society (BHS) advises riders work with a range of suitable horses to build recognition of individual differences a useful principle in cross-country schooling because some horses are naturally bold, while others need more repetitions to understand the question. Read the BHS Coach Handbook guidance: BHS Coach Handbook.Quick tip: Fit protective leg gear for every schooling session so an honest knock never turns into a sore leg and a negative memory. Explore supportive, breathable options in our horse boots & bandages collection.How often should you school ditches?Once-weekly targeted sessions beat frequent drilling for building confidence and learning with negative reinforcement. More is not better quality, calm exposures spaced out for processing delivers stronger results and better motivation.The equine psychology review above reports that, for learning that relies on release of pressure (negative reinforcement), horses actually learn more effectively at a once-weekly rate than when trained twice weekly or daily. In practice, that means scheduling one ditch-specific school per week and resisting the urge to fix it by repeating the same exercise three days in a row. See the evidence: PMC3514365.In the UK, plan around ground conditions and welfare. British Riding Clubs, under the BHS umbrella, emphasise that welfare comes first in training and competition so skip sessions when the ditch is waterlogged, edges are crumbling, or frost makes footing unpredictable. Bank the win from last week and keep your horse mentally fresh.At Just Horse Riders, we recommend a weekly ditch school supported by two to three flatwork and pole sessions that build rhythm and adjustability, plus hacking for balance and cardio. Keep your own safety front and centre with a snug, up-to-standard hat from our riding helmets collection.Exactly how to introduce your horse to ditchesBegin with a shallow, narrow trench and trot over in a relaxed rhythm, using a lead horse if needed and removing height, speed and pressure from the question. Your goal is quiet acceptance, not power.Follow this step-by-step progression, adapted from Tina Cooks proven approach:Pick the smallest, best-presented ditch you can find shallow sides, firm take-off and landing.Walk up calmly to look, then ride a steady rising trot with your hands soft and neck long. Allow a little look, keep straight, and ride forward.If confidence wobbles, use a reassuring lead from a seasoned horse. The point is a positive experience, not pride.In combinations, trot past the other elements first so your horse sees them and wont spook away from the line, then pop the ditch on its own before linking anything together.Repeat a few easy, similar efforts and stop while its good. Always finish with a simple fence your horse knows well.As Tina Cook puts it:If hes confident, hell jump for you, if hes not, then he wont its as simple as that. Always end your sessions on a positive note, even if this means going back to basics. Tina Cook, Horse & Rider UKSafety first: even at tiny ditches, protect legs and give yourself the best chance with secure kit. Choose supportive fetlock/tendon boots or all-round XC boots from our horse boots & bandages and ride in grippy, comfortable bottoms from our womens jodhpurs & breeches range to keep your lower leg stable over uneven ground.When to build the coffin canterDevelop a condensed, bouncy coffin canter only after your horse steps over small ditches quietly in trot. Compression comes second; acceptance comes first.The coffin canter teaches your horse to stay quick in the hindleg, shorten the step, and wait without anxiety. Build it away from ditches first:On the flat, ride frequent transitions within the pace five to seven canter strides collected, then allow forward, repeat.Use pole lines set on slightly short distances to encourage sit and bounce without adding speed.Introduce small rails-on-the-ground before and after a tiny ditch (a ground line with a shallow tray) so the horse reads down-up in balance.Only then, bring the feel to a real ditch. Approach in that condensed canter, stay straight, and keep the contact elastic. If the balance tips forward, go back to trot and re-establish the quiet step-over.Comfort underpins confidence. An anatomical bridle that reduces facial pressure can help sensitive horses stay soft into the contact when you ask for shorter steps. For quality training aids and soft, horse-friendly kit, explore trusted brands like LeMieux, known for comfortable, performance-focused designs.Matching horse, rider and coach for confidencePair novice riders with experienced horses and work with a BHS Accredited Professional Coach to pace progress and prevent setbacks. The right match and guidance protect confidence for both of you.The BHS advises working with a variety of suitable horses to build judgment and adaptability, and its Stage 4 coaching materials emphasise improving ability and confidence with a clear understanding of how horses react to tasks. That directly applies to cross-country schooling particularly with ditches, which are visual and can trigger cautious horses. See the BHS resources: Coach Handbook and Stage 4 Trainer Guide.Working with an Accredited Professional Coach helps you set the right level: an experienced nanny horse for your first ditch days, then a steady progression to slightly wider, then slightly deeper, before you ever meet a ditch in a combination. Keep yourself visible and safe en route to schooling venues with high-visibility essentials from our rider hi-vis collection.Pro tip: Your position is part of the confidence equation. A balanced lower leg and soft, following hand make questions feel easy. If your kit is letting you slip, upgrade to supportive, grippy breeches in our womens jodhpurs & breeches and make sure your hat is current from our riding helmets.Seasonal UK plan: winter to event seasonUse hacking, polework and groundwork through wet UK winters, then book cross-country schooling days as the ground improves in spring. This keeps confidence growing year-round without over-facing in poor footing.In late autumn and winter, cross-country venues can be muddy or closed, but you can still prepare superbly:Hack with reliable company to build balance, proprioception and mental freshness ideal for young or green horses.Bank weekly polework to groove rhythm and adjustability that will become your coffin canter later.Introduce ditch ideas on the ground a shallow trench, water tray or safe tarpaulin gap using a lungeing cavesson for clear, pressure-free communication before you ever sit on.Keep your horse warm and comfortable so each session ends as a good memory. In damp, chilly weather, rug wisely after work: breathable turnout layers for cool-down outdoors and cosy stable layers inside. Browse our dependable turnout rugs and snug stable rugs, including weatherproof designs from trusted brands like WeatherBeeta.As venues open in spring, plan one ditch-focused school per week, vary the sites (to avoid pattern learning), and keep each question a fraction easier than you think you can do finishing on a lock-on, ears-pricked effort every time.Rewards, corrections and what to do after a run-outReward every honest try, keep corrections minimal and unemotional, and immediately simplify the task after any run-out. Fear-based reactions erode confidence; calm clarity builds it.The evidence base supports combining positive reinforcement (praise, wither rubs, a treat after the line) with fair, well-timed negative reinforcement (release of pressure at the right moment) for the most efficient learning and the least behavioural fallout during demanding tasks. See the review: PMC3514365.If your horse runs out, widen your line, bring it back to trot, use a lead if available, and pop an easier version. Then finish with something your horse knows cold so the session ends on a win. Keep the tone like this for every schooling day, echoing Tina Cooks advice to always end positively.For positive reinforcement that counts, carry a pocket-friendly reward and make your timing precise. Our horse treats are handy for a pat-then-treat routine the moment you land from a good effort.Kit that quietly boosts ditch confidenceComfort, protection and clear communication reduce anxiety at ditches, so fit protective legwear, choose pressure-relieving tack, and use simple training tools to build adjustability.Protective legwear: Save legs from knocks and scrapes so a small mistake doesnt sour confidence. Shop breathable, supportive options in our horse boots & bandages.Secure rider kit: A stable lower leg and steady upper body help your horse trust you. Choose grippy, supportive bottoms in our womens jodhpurs & breeches.Head protection: Cross-country schooling is variable terrain; wear a current, well-fitted hat from our riding helmets.Groundwork aids: A well-fitted lungeing cavesson lets you introduce gap concepts safely on the ground before riding them.Comfort-first bridlework: Anatomical headpieces and soft nosebands minimise facial pressure, helping sensitive horses accept a shorter canter without worry.Seasonal care: Keep post-work routines warm and predictable with breathable layers from our turnout rugs and stable rugs to end each session comfortably.Visibility and safety: For winter hacks and schooling approaches in low light, add essentials from our hi-vis collection.At Just Horse Riders, we stock trusted brands and rider favourites to keep horses comfortable and riders confident. If youre upgrading on a budget, check whats new in our Secret Tack Room clearance for seasonal savings.Conclusion: your next stepsBuild ditch confidence the proven way: one quiet trot step at a time, once a week, with a coach who keeps progress steady and your horses experience positive. Protect legs, ride in balance, and always finish on a win. Book a schooling slot this month, set your weekly plan, and kit up with safety and comfort in mind your best cross-country rounds will follow.FAQsCan you train a horse to specifically look at ditches?No you cant cue look, but you can create acceptance with progressive exposure: start with tiny ditches in a steady trot, use a lead if useful, and build up calmly. See Tina Cooks practical approach in Horse & Rider UK.Why does my horse refuse ditches but jumps other fences?Usually low confidence from a negative or rushed introduction. The fix is to slow down, remove height and speed, use steady trots and simple versions, and end every session on a positive note. Evidence on confidence and training rate: PMC3514365.How often should I school cross-country to build confidence?Once a week for ditch-specific work, supported by flatwork, polework and hacking on other days. Research shows once-weekly sessions are more effective than multiple sessions per week for learning with negative reinforcement: PMC3514365.Should I reprimand a horse for a run-out at a ditch?Avoid punitive reactions. Reward tries, simplify immediately, and aim for a quiet success. Fear-based corrections reduce willingness to approach the question next time.Whats key for young horses approaching ditches?Rhythm and predictability first: use polework to build balance, hack with reliable company, and choose the smallest, best-presented ditch to introduce in trot.When do I teach the coffin canter?After your horse is comfortable stepping over small ditches quietly. Build the condensed, bouncy canter on the flat and with poles before bringing it to a real ditch.Which kit helps most for ditch schooling?Protective legwear for your horse, a current, well-fitted riding hat, and comfortable, grippy breeches. Start with our horse boots & bandages and riding helmets collections. Shop the Essentials Everything mentioned in this guide, ready to browse. Shop Boots & BandagesShop Riding HelmetsShop Jodhpurs & BreechesShop Hi-Vis GearShop Horse Treats

10 min read Last updated: January 2026 Winter riding can be glorious, but frozen troughs, muddy gateways and sudden routine changes can quickly derail your horses health. This UK-focused guide shows you how to prevent issues before they startkeeping water flowing at 2070 litres a dayso you maintain safe routines, reduce colic risk, and keep your yard running smoothly. Quick Summary Short on time? Here are the key takeaways. Area: Winter Hydration What To Do: Provide 2070 litres per day, keeping water 718C and ice-free with insulated/heated buckets. Check troughs and automatic drinkers twice daily and offer tepid water after work. Why It Matters: Adequate, appealing water reduces winter colic risk and supports digestion. Common Mistake: Letting troughs freeze or only offering very cold water that discourages drinking. Area: Gradual Stabling Transition What To Do: Shift from summer turnout to winter stabling over 1014 days, increasing forage and reducing grazing bit by bit. Keep daily outdoor time and steady access to clean water. Why It Matters: Gradual change lets the hindgut adapt and lowers colic risk. Common Mistake: Moving to full stabling overnight or swapping forage suddenly. Area: Daily Movement What To Do: Maintain turnout or purposeful exercise every day. If its icy, switch to inhand walks on gritted routes or groundwork/indoor schooling. Why It Matters: Consistent movement supports gut motility, comfort and behaviour. Common Mistake: Riding on icy or hardfrozen ground and risking slips or concussion. Area: Yard Safety What To Do: Grit concrete, gateways and walkways before frost, and plan safe, lit routes. Use hiviz, a fitted helmet and grippy boots; avoid poor visibility rides. Why It Matters: Good footing and visibility prevent slips and handling accidents. Common Mistake: Waiting to grit until after ice forms or leading horses across slick areas unprepared. Area: Skin and Hoof Care What To Do: Check legs and skin daily, rotate onto betterdrained paddocks, rinse heavy mud and dry thoroughly. Swap out wet rugs promptly and keep grooming kit clean. Why It Matters: Dry, protected skin helps prevent mud fever and rain scald. Common Mistake: Leaving legs damp under dirty or wet rugs, or overrugging so skin sweats and softens. Area: ForageLed Feeding What To Do: Feed suitable hay/haylage as the base, weightape fortnightly and BCS monthly. If needed, add concentrates gradually over 710 days and split into small meals; offer tepid water. Why It Matters: Steady, foragefirst diets protect the hindgut and keep weight on track. Common Mistake: Making sudden ration changes or missing creeping weight shifts under rugs. Area: Smart Rugging What To Do: Rug only if the horse needs it; choose wellfitting waterproof/breathable turnout or cosy stable rugs and keep a dry spare. Check daily for rubs/overheating and adjust weight with weather. Why It Matters: Correct rugging keeps horses dry and comfortable without causing rubs or heat stress. Common Mistake: Overrugging in mild spells or using poorfitting rugs you dont check. Area: Winter Budgeting What To Do: Ringfence essentials (water solutions, forage, safe turnout, farriery). Bulkbuy forage where possible, share deliveries and grit, and reinforce gateways with mats or hardcore. Why It Matters: Smart planning sustains welfare during costly winter months. Common Mistake: Cutting essentials like hoof care or reliable water management to save money. In This Guide Keep your horse drinking in winter Transition to winter stabling safely Keep turnout and exercise daily Make your yard winter-safe Stay ahead of mud fever and rain scald Monitor weight and feed forage first Choose and check winter rugs Plan for costs and welfare Winter can be brilliant for hacking on crisp mornings and productive schooling in quieter arenas but it also piles on real management challenges. From frozen troughs and muddy gateways to stabling changes and skin flare-ups, a smart plan keeps your horse healthy and your yard running safely.Key takeaway: In UK winters, prevent problems before they start keep water flowing (2070 litres/day), change routines gradually over 1014 days, maintain daily turnout/exercise, grit icy surfaces, and check skin, hooves and rugs every day.Keep your horse drinking in winterUK horses need 2070 litres of fresh water a day in winter (about 10 litres per 100 kg bodyweight), and you must keep supplies unfrozen and appealing to offset cold-weather drinking dips and reduce colic risk. Check troughs and buckets at least twice daily, breaking ice and offering slightly warmed water.The RSPCA highlights that horses often drink less in cold weather, increasing the risk of impaction colic if fibre intake rises and movement drops. Aim for water around 718C (4565F) to encourage drinking; using insulated or heated buckets helps keep it in that sweet spot. If your horse is fussy, float a sliced apple to pique interest or add a small amount of salt if appropriate for your horse both simple tricks can nudge intake upwards (RSPCA guidance).Quick tips for winter hydration: Site troughs out of prevailing wind and sun-shade freeze-thaw cycles to reduce ice formation. Offer tepid water after exercise and before hay to support gut motility. Check automatic drinkers daily blockages and frozen valves are common.At Just Horse Riders, we recommend building water checks into your morning and evening routines, just like rug checks and hay nets. A few minutes twice a day pays back in gut health all winter.Transition to winter stabling safelyMake the summer-to-winter change over 1014 days, gradually increasing forage and reducing grazing so the hindgut adapts and colic risk drops. Keep some daily outdoor time throughout the transition to support gut motility and mental wellbeing.The British Horse Society (BHS) is clear on the timeline for yard routines that move from summer turnout to winter stabling: "Turning horses out all summer and then housing them at times during the winter is common practice at many yards. This adjustment... should be completed gradually over 1014 days to help reduce the risk of colic."Shift by swapping out a little grass time for hay each day until your target winter routine is reached, and avoid sudden jumps in forage type or quantity. Alongside, keep movement going (see next section) and maintain ready access to clean water. For stabled periods, plan your rug, forage and stable management in tandem for example, pairing appropriate hay with the right rug weight and good ventilation to avoid sweating and equine asthma flare-ups (BHS winter care).Keep turnout and exercise dailyMaintain daily turnout or purposeful exercise in winter because reduced movement and increased stabling are key risk factors for colic. When riding isnt safe outdoors, swap in-hand walking, groundwork or indoor schooling to keep your horse moving.Equine experts at Scotlands Rural College underline the point: "Lack of exercise and increased stabling are risk factors for colic. Maintain turnout/regular exercise daily wherever possible."When the going is icy or the ground is hard-frozen, dont ride the BHS advises against it to avoid slips and concussion. Instead: Walk in hand around safe, gritted routes for 2030 minutes. Do simple polework or long-reining in an indoor or suitable surface. Make the most of good weather windows for proper hacks, using hi-viz for low-visibility hacks on short UK days.Comfort for you matters too on cold, damp mornings. Warm, grippy horse riding boots and weatherproof jodhpurs or breeches help you keep consistent, safe routines when the weather turns.Make your yard winter-safeGrit concrete, gateways and walkways in frost, and do not ride on icy or hard-frozen ground to prevent slips and concussion. Plan safe routes and yard zones before the cold snap hits.The BHS reminds owners to tackle slip risks proactively: "Gritting concrete areas around your yard will prevent you and your horse from slipping. Dont ride out in slippery conditions or when visibility is poor."Practical yard safety wins: Grit or salt concrete aprons, stable fronts and field gateways before overnight frosts. Lay hardcore in high-traffic gateways to reduce mud-suction and abscess risk. Keep a head torch, spare lead ropes and a yard-first-aid kit ready by the door. Use lights and high-visibility gear if you must cross roads at dawn/dusk. Wear a secure, up-to-standard riding helmet for any mounted work and a sturdy pair of yard and riding boots with good grip.If snow arrives, turnout can still be fine for sensible horses when it isnt too deep, provided they have shelter and forage; avoid ice under snow and continue to prioritise water access (BHS advice).Stay ahead of mud fever and rain scaldCheck legs and skin daily for scabs, cracks, heat or tenderness, rotate turnout onto better-drained paddocks, and provide dry shelter to prevent mud fever and rain scald. Avoid over-rugging, and make sure rugs are dry, well-fitting and checked every day.Wet, muddy conditions soften skin and invite bacteria into tiny cracks, causing mud fever (pastern dermatitis). Look for clinging mud, greasy skin, scabs and hair loss on lower limbs. For rain scald (on the back, neck and quarters), watch for those tell-tale paintbrush tufts with scabs beneath. Prevention basics: Rotate fields and use better-drained paddocks; add hardcore at gates to cut standing mud. Provide shelter so horses can choose to be out of driving rain and wind. Rinse off heavy mud, then dry legs thoroughly with clean towels; keep a tidy set of grooming tools just for winter legs and backs. Use turnout on appropriate ground and consider protective horse boots and bandages for brushing and overreach in deep going (remove and dry daily). Check rugs for fit and damp spots; swap out wet rugs promptly to prevent skin issues.Remember, hydration and movement also protect the gut and skin by supporting circulation and overall resilience. As the RSPCA sums up colic prevention: ensure constant access to water, plenty of forage and regular pasture time (RSPCA winter horse care).Monitor weight and feed forage firstWeigh your horse every two weeks and body condition score monthly in winter; slight weight loss now is normal and can be beneficial before spring grass returns. Avoid sudden ration changes and base the diet on ad-lib or well-matched forage to keep the hindgut happy.Experts at Scotlands Rural College recommend keeping a close eye on weight and condition throughout the cold months, particularly as energy needs rise with lower temperatures and wind chill. For good doers, a small, managed winter drop helps offset the inevitable spring rebound; for poor doers, increase forage quality and calorie density early enough to avoid a mid-winter slump (SRUC winter care).Practical feeding pointers: Forage first: match hay or haylage type to your horses condition and workload. Split feeds into small, regular meals if concentrates are needed but add them gradually over at least 710 days. Hydration drives digestion: offer tepid water and check intake when hay increases. Consider targeted additions for winter management, and explore our curated supplements to support coat, hooves and overall condition alongside veterinary guidance.Our customers often pair routine weigh-taping with photo records each fortnight its a simple way to spot creeping changes under a thick coat or rug.Choose and check winter rugsOnly rug when your horse needs it (for example, if clipped, older, underweight or living out without enough natural shelter), and choose well-fitting turnout or stable rugs you can check daily for rubbing or overheating. In wet or snowy weather, the right rug weight and a dry spare make all the difference.Horses are superbly adapted to the cold, but UK wind and rain change the game; use a rug to keep a horse dry and comfortable rather than hot. For clipped horses in work, the BHS also recommends an exercise sheet in wet/cold conditions to prevent chills after sweating (BHS winter care).Build your winter rug wardrobe carefully: For turnout, browse breathable, waterproof winter turnout rugs with reliable seams and shoulder gussets. For stabled periods, pick cosy, well-cut stable rugs that wont rub when your horse lies down. Have at least one dry spare to swap in after heavy rain; check fit weekly as condition changes. Shop trusted brands crafted for UK weather such as WeatherBeeta for performance-focused cuts and fabrics.Pro tip: Run a hand under the rug at the shoulder and girthline your horse should feel warm and dry, not hot or clammy. Adjust weight as temperatures and coat changes dictate.Plan for costs and welfareWith around 850,000 horses in the UK and rising living costs, a clear winter plan for forage, bedding, hoof care and an emergency vet fund protects welfare. Prioritise the essentials water, forage, shelter and safe footing and budget for routine farriery and dentistry even when the weather is wild.British Equestrians 2023 State of the Nation Report warns that economic pressure risks welfare declines over winter, especially for those on livery in the South East and South West (British Equestrian report). A few practical steps can ease the squeeze without compromising care: Bulk-buy forage early where storage allows; test and match hay to your horses needs. Share deliveries and gritting equipment with yard mates to cut costs. Protect gateways with mats or hardcore to save on lost shoes and abscess vet bills. Stretch your budget with quality value ranges such as Gallop Equestrian, and keep an eye on our Secret Tack Room clearance for seasonal savings.At Just Horse Riders, we recommend listing your winter non-negotiables (water solutions, forage, safe turnout, farriery) and ringfencing that spend first. Nice-to-haves come after welfare-critical kit is covered.FAQsHow much water does my horse need in UK winter?Plan for 2070 litres daily (about 10 litres per 100 kg bodyweight), and expect intake to drop in cold spells. Break ice at least twice daily and offer slightly warmed water to reduce colic risk (RSPCA).When should I stable my horse if snow is forecast?Dont make sudden changes. Transition from summer turnout to any winter stabling over 1014 days, and still allow outdoor time daily where safe; horses can go out in snow that isnt too deep if they have shelter and forage (BHS, SRUC).Is it safe to ride on frozen ground?No. Avoid riding on icy routes or hard-frozen ground to prevent slips and concussion; grit yard walkways and gateways for safer handling (BHS guidance). Choose in-hand work or suitable surfaces instead.How do I prevent mud fever in wet UK winters?Check legs daily, rotate turnout onto better-drained fields, keep gateways firm, and dry legs after removing heavy mud. Use clean grooming tools and ensure rugs arent causing sweating that softens skin (BHS).Should I rug my horse every time it snows?Not necessarily. Rug based on the individual clipped, older or poor-doing horses are more likely to need one. Choose appropriate turnout rugs or stable rugs and check daily for rubbing or overheating (SRUC).What causes winter colic and how do I avoid it?Lower water intake, increased stabling and sudden diet changes are prime winter triggers. Prevent by keeping water flowing, maintaining daily turnout/exercise, feeding plenty of forage and making any changes gradually over 1014 days (RSPCA, BHS, SRUC).What kit helps me ride safely on dark winter days?Use hi-viz gear for road visibility, a correctly fitted riding helmet, and warm, grippy riding boots. Swap to indoor schooling or groundwork when its icy or visibility is poor (BHS advice).Winter is won on the basics: water, forage, movement and safe footing. Build these into your daily routine, and youll keep your horse hydrated, comfortable and working happily all season. If you need tailored kit advice from waterproof turnout rugs to visibility essentials our Just Horse Riders team is here to help. Shop the Essentials Everything mentioned in this guide, ready to browse. Shop Turnout RugsShop Stable RugsShop Hi-Vis GearShop Grooming KitShop Riding Boots

Tips for making smart mealtime decisions when feeding many types of horses.Designing an effective feeding program for a boarding facility can be challenging. | Photos.comDesigning a feed program for a boarding facility can be a challenge, especially if the barn population has many types of horses. Is it possible to feed ponies, stock breeds, Thoroughbreds, and Warmbloods under one roof without making chores more complicated than a moon landing?Equine demographics, budget, barn setup, and staff flow are all factors when deciding how to feed hay and concentrates. Horses can be fed in stalls, outside in groups, or a combination of the two.Feeding HayYou can generally purchase hay in varying sizes of small square bales (40-100 pounds), large square bales (usually 750-1,000 pounds), and round bales (usually 900-1,400 pounds). Small squares are easiest to maneuver when feeding hay in stalls, though large squares are also divided into flakes and can be distributed similarly. Round bales are easiest to feed when there are enough horses in a group to eat them down reasonably quickly.If a barns demographics dictate horses must get different types of hayfor example, some might do best on straight grass, while harder keepers benefit from alfalfa or a heavy alfalfa mixsmall squares are nice because you can stack them in separate piles, and barn staff can distribute to each horse or paddock as assigned. This can be more challenging with large squares if storage space is limited.Round bales offer major advantages for groups of horses if the barn has equipment to stack and move them and if all the horses can be permitted access to free-choice hay. Round bales can pose issues for horses with respiratory issues, as the outer layers of even high-quality round bales tend to contain higher levels of mold and dust than small squares. They also carry a slightly higher risk of exposure to pathogens that cause diseases such as botulism, which can occur when animal carcasses are inadvertently baled into hay. (It is important to note this can happen with any forage, even small squares and bagged products such as hay cubes.)Krishona Martinson, PhD, animal science professor and equine specialist at the University of Minnesota, in Minneapolis, studies equine forage utilization and management as well as forage-related equine health issues. She explains how she helps farm managers/business owners choose the best type of hay for their herds: If a barn can only logistically or financially maintain a single type of hay, I always start with a high-quality grass, she says, and then see how the horses do. If a horse ends up needing more energy, we try to supplement with concentrates. If a horse needs less, I encourage increasing exercise.Her reasoning: Good grass hay is safe to feed most types of horses. Compared to alfalfa, it is lower in calories and protein but can be slightly higher in sugars. Conversely, alfalfa or a grass-alfalfa mix might be a better choice for barns with a more homogenous demographicperformance horses, young growing horses, breeding stock, rescues.Haynets and feeders can significantly reduce hay waste and save boarding barns the cost of throwing away soiled hay. Many brands of haynets are available for stalls and even round bales. Filling and hanging them can be labor-intensive, which is also a consideration, but haynets can be very beneficial to slow consumption and prevent horses from flinging hay around a stall or paddock.ConcentratesDespite the dizzying number of brands and types of concentrates available to horse owners, there is no one-size-fits-all grain for all types of horses. Individuals running boarding farms have hundreds of choices when it comes designing a concentrate program, so where to start?One option is to have each owner provide their own concentrate. This can work if the number of horses is small and the barn has enough storage space for everyones feed. This strategy takes grain ordering off the barn managers plate and can reduce boarding costs. However, it requires more organization and diligence by barn staff to keep the grain organized, and owners must stay on top of making sure their horses have grain.In most cases boarding farm managers choose a base feed to provide each horse in the barn, and owners provide any additional supplements. How many types of base concentrate the barn supplies depends on storage, staffing, and horse demographics. Ration BalancersRachel Mottet, PhD, equine nutritionist and owner of Legacy Equine Nutrition, in Ocala, Florida, says she approaches big barn situations with a few different products: For most barns, a ration balancer, a performance or maintenance feed, and a complete feed are all you need. After making sure the forage program is sufficient and other basic nutrients such as water and salt are taken care of, she evaluates the brands available to the barn and chooses products that fit the types of horses at the facility.A lot of horses will do great on a ration balancer, but if that doesnt meet their energy needs, we can use a performance feed, Mottet says. And there are a variety of reasons a horse might need a complete feed. Simplifying a barns program to just a few products can result in more balanced diets and less confusion in the feed room, she adds.For a barn with a diverse population, ration balancers can be incredibly versatile. These are pelleted feeds fortified to provide the vitamins, minerals, and protein the horses forage might lack. They typically do not contain as many calories per pound as performance or maintenance feeds. Ration balancers are especially good choices for easy keepers that dont require many calories beyond whats provided in their forage but can also be used to feed performance horses and harder keepers when combined with higher-calorie concentrates such as fat supplements. Ration balancers are typically not sold in bulk and cost more to purchase per 50-pound bag than other feeds. They are fed, however, at a very low rate: 1 to 3 pounds per day depending on the size, breed, and use of the horse. For ponies and Miniature Horses, the feeding rate is even lower.A major advantage of providing ration balancers is you can safely feed them to almost every type of horse. Owners can be assured each horse is receiving adequate nutrients, and additional calories can be supplemented at whatever rate is appropriate for each individual horse. Another benefit is a lower feeding rate means horses finish their meals faster, making it more efficient for barn staff to turn horses out after mealtime is done.Performance FeedsShow barns might use higher-calorie performance feeds. These are fed at varying rates, depending on each horses needs, ranging from 4 to 10 pounds per day. They also contain varying percentages of fat and nonstructural carbohydrates to provide energy and are much more calorie-dense than ration balancers, maintenance feeds, or senior feeds. Using these products can be problematic, however, if some horses in the barn dont need the amount of calories the minimum feeding rates provide, because feeding less than the minimum will not supply adequate vitamins and minerals. Maintenance FeedsMaintenance feeds can be fed at similar rates as performance feeds but generally contain fewer calories per pound. As with performance feeds, they need to be fed at a minimum feeding rate of about 4 pounds per day (always check the feed tag for this information), so if horses dont need the calories that minimum provides, a ration balancer might be a better option. These feeds can be good options for barns with horse populations in consistent moderate work. One advantage for bigger barns is these feeds are often available in bulk, which can reduce grain deliveries, bag handling, and overall feed costs. The disadvantage is they might provide too few calories for some horses and not enough for others.Feeding Senior Horses RELATED CONTENT | What to Feed Old Horses (Special Feature)Older horses with dental or digestive issues can be challenging for boarding barn managers. Some horses cannot chew or digest long-stem forage (hay) properly and need a complete feed to maintain their condition. Complete feeds are designed to provide both the forage and concentrate and must be fed at a fairly high rateusually 10 to 18 pounds per day for an average to large horseto maintain body condition and meet horses nutrition requirements.Because complete feeds contain a lot of forage products, they are not as calorie-dense per pound and usually not as high in fat as performance or maintenance feeds. For this reason, complete or senior feeds are not usually efficient or appropriate choices for a general barn population but should be used for those horses that need them to replace forage in their diets. Barn managers might choose to make these feeds available to horses in their care that need them, but not feed them to everyone.SupplementsMost barns require horse owners to provide their own supplements, if they opt to use these products. In some cases a barn manager might choose to provide a high-calorie supplement, such as a high-fat pellet or nugget, to complement a ration balancer base diet. They then pass the cost along to the horse owners.The Value of a NutritionistMost major feed companies have regional nutrition advisors who can visit boarding facilities and help barn managers develop programs that work for their horses. If a barn already uses a particular feed brand, these professionals can help refine or streamline a feeding program. Independent equine nutritionists, usually with a doctorate-level education, along with equine veterinarians, are also excellent resources to help with specific horse issues or develop solutions for barnwide trends, such as lowering body condition scores or correcting poor toplines.Dollars and SenseFeed is the largest single monthly expense for most boarding business owners. They must weigh the costs and benefits of providing various types of hay and concentrates. Horse feed has not been immune to the power of inflation, and prices have gone up significantly. When evaluating the cost of concentrates, boarding farm managers must look at the cost to feed them, not the cost to purchase them. While ration balancers cost more per bag, the lower feeding rate can make them cheaper to feed than maintenance feeds. For example, a horse might only need 1 pound of ration balancer per day but 4 pounds of maintenance feed. And as with most things, higher-quality horse feeds cost more.Horse owners who board should remember barns often have to cater to a wide variety of horses. Rising costs mean board rate increases are inevitable, especially if the farm manager wants to prioritize a high-quality feeding program.

On Feb. 2, a 10-year-old Quarter Horse gelding in the Regional Municipality of Niagara, Ontario, tested positive for strangles. The gelding developed an acute fever followed by unilateral swelling behind the jaw, which was painful to the touch. Nasopharyngeal swab was positive forS. equiby PCR. He has been isolated.EDCC Health Watch is an Equine Network marketing program that utilizes information from the Equine Disease Communication Center (EDCC) to create and disseminate verified equine disease reports. TheEDCCis an independent nonprofit organization that is supported by industry donations in order to provide open access to infectious disease information.About StranglesStranglesin horses is an infection caused byStreptococcus equisubspeciesequiand spread through direct contact with other equids or contaminated surfaces. Horses that arent showing clinical signs can harbor and spread the bacteria, and recovered horses remain contagious for at least six weeks, with the potential to cause outbreaks long-term.Infected horses can exhibit a variety of clinical signs:FeverSwollen and/or abscessed lymph nodesNasal dischargeCoughing or wheezingMuscle swellingDifficulty swallowingVeterinarians diagnose horses using polymerase chain reaction (PCR) testing with either a nasal swab, wash, or an abscess sample, and they treat most cases based on clinical signs, implementing antibiotics for severe cases. Overuse of antibiotics can prevent an infected horse from developing immunity. Most horses make a full recovery in three to four weeks.A vaccine is available but not always effective. Biosecurity measures of quarantining new horses at a facility and maintaining high standards of hygiene and disinfecting surfaces can helplower the risk of outbreakorcontain one when it occurs.