Hello everyone- we are delighted to be sponsored again by British Horse Feeds, and this season we hope you will follow our journey with the show horses.The 2023 season was a dream come true, Simon and lightweight show cob Copenhagen (Teddy) did the double by winning the champion cob title at both The Royal International Horse Show (RIHS) and Horse Of The Year Show (HOYS) and was voted reserve champion show horse of the year in the Showing World awards, for owner Rowena Stevenson. Teddy has been one of the most consistent cobs on the circuit throughout his career, and we were all so thrilled for him to finally win the big titles at the two major championships in the same year. What an achievement! Teddy really is a yard favourite, and I dont think there was a dry eye on the team as we watched him trot down that centreline at HOYS under the spotlight last OctoberOur top novice cob from the last two seasons Cruising Bay (Eric), owned by Harriet Richardson also finished his season off on a high by winning at The British Show Horse Association National Championships last September. We always say if a novice can win here, it is the equivalent of their HOYS. Eric won 6 classes out of 7 last year, including Three Shires, Mid Herts, champion at Midland County, and champion at Ashbourne, and this year he will contest some open classes for the first time.We waved off heavyweight hunter Bowland Jasper to a new home after HOYS, and already we have had updates of him turning his hoof to dressage and very much enjoying his new life, which is so wonderful. In 2023 Jasper was champion at Ashbourne, champion at Newark, Nottinghamshire County,1st at BSPS Area 7, 2nd at Staffordshire County, 6th at RIHS, and 8th at HOYS to name just a fewSimon will show an exciting novice small hunter, Woodlock Rebel for owner Rowena Stevenson, and he will hopefully also contend some of the new British Horse Feeds sponsored Irish draught classes in the hope of qualifying for RIHS. This is such an exciting series and is already proving to be so popular. We have been quietly working away educating this young horse, and we will carefully place Woody at shows this year that will benefit his further education and development. Having special young horses is exciting, but you must be mindful of not pre-planning too much. Horses will tell you when they are ready, and it is not a one size fits all when it comes to producing. Last term Woody was champion novice intermediate at the BSPS Summer Championships, which was his only competitive outing.Returning contenders from last year are maxi cob Correl Wood for owner Ruth Parker, middleweight show hunter and sport horse Irish Draught Under Attack for rider Myles Cooper and owner Liz Worthy, and the duo will also campaign small riding horse and intermediate show riding type KitKat; a winner last term at the BSPS Winter.Championships and champion at the BSHA National Championships to name a few. Under Attack had a phenomenal season last year- some highlights include champion at BSPS Summer Championships, 1st and reserve champion at Staffordshire County, supreme at Hambleton, champion at Lincoln, 2nd at The Great Yorkshire Show, and 6th at HOYS.As always with horses, you have good days, and then you have bad. We very sadly lost our lovely mare Cascade on Mothers Day. She was a grand old age of 32, and Natalie and her mum have owned her since she was 4. She was shown by Nat and went on to have some fabulous foals, even breeding a HOYS winner. Cassie will be sadly missed by us all. Having owned her for 28 years, it has inevitably been a very sad time. Its been particularly hard for her field friend Scooby (aka Casanova), Nats show cob who we have had since he was 3 and is now 25 years old. He had an incredible career with Nat, winning HOYS three times, and the Royal International Horse Show. Looking after our old, retired horses is a huge responsibility, but it is also a privilegeScooby became a little depressed after losing Cassie, so we have brought him back over to the main yard, and Nat is starting to hack him out. Even our son Luke has had a little ride. We have noticed a big difference in him, he is starting to sparkle again, and it is lovely to see. Feeding and caring for older horses is such an important job. Currently Scooby is being fuelled by Fibre-Beet and carrots, with a mixture of hay and haylage. Heres hoping Scooby continues to enjoy his hacking adventures and the attention of being back on the main yard. He certainly has a twinkle back in his eye.With a yard full yard of show horses here, we are planning on attending a few shows this month. The last breakers and schoolers of the winter are soon to be heading off, and we have a lovely mix of horses for this year and our eye on a few youngsterswatch this space!We have some act to follow after the spoils of last season. All the horses won some amazing titles, and we are excited to get going- hopefully with some sunshine!Simon has been selected to judge HOYS this year which is a real honour. With the new format for this year, he is not sure what classes he might be called up to judge, so that makes the whole show super exciting.As always, we are so grateful to British Horse Feeds for their generous sponsorship. The horses look fantastic. Each horse has a different ratio of food dependent on their condition, age, level of work, and temperament, but we tend to feed a mixture of Fibre-Beet , Speedi-Beet , chaff, and Cooked Linseed and then two supplements TurmerAid and TurmerItch from The Golden Paste Company who are sister company to British Horse Feeds. The coats on all the horses are amazing, and we really notice the shine. They also have enough energy without the fizz, and the hoof quality is excellent.Good luck to everyone this year, whether your goal is to improve at home, or to go out competing, we wish you all the best. Most of all, we hope you enjoy your horses, as that is what it is all about.Simon and Natalie ReynoldsBritish Horse Feeds are proud to be supporting Team Reynolds and are excited to follow them throughout the 2024 showing season. Learn more about British Horse Feeds range of feeds hereThe post Reynolds Equestrian: A 2023 double champion Cob and an exciting 2024 showing season ahead appeared first on British Horse Feeds.

Why is oil good for our horses?Lipids (oils & fats) are an integral part of the bodys physiology and biochemistry. They are present in cell membranes, intracellular structures and as insulators for connective tissue and nerve fibres. Additionally, lipids are the only true long term energy reserves, stored in dedicated cells, from which they can be rapidly mobilised to meet increases in energy demands.These energy demands may be in terms of a higher level of activity, increased heat production during cold weather, or to make up a shortfall when dietary input drops (limited or low energy feed). If fat is not present, then the body will start to break down protein glucose stores (glycogen) are very limited and will soon be used up in adverse conditions. Lipids also act as insulation for the whole body (fat reserves lying under the skin act as blanket) and improve the conformation of the horseIn summary, fats are the source horses go to when they really need energy. Without this source, their bodies tap into protein for energy instead, which will get used up too quickly and takes away from the other uses that protein has for the body.What is oil?The majority of dietary oils are triglycerides. Triglycerides are 3 fatty acids attached to a glycerol body, and the individual fatty acids can vary from short to long chain molecules, with or without unsaturated bonds. They are metabolised to release energy that enters the energy generation system, by-passing insulin dependent sugar metabolism, and providing up to 38Mj/kg, far higher than other nutrients. Dont fear, you can get an oil that provides slow releasing energy to ensure your horse doesnt get too hot. Keep reading!What does oil do?Oil has a central position in the metabolic pathways in the horse. As such, as well as being broken down to provide energy when needed, Lipids can also be biosynthesised when more energy is being taken in than being used and laid down as fat. Biosynthesised refers to the process by which living organisms (like cells in the human body) naturally produce complex compounds (in this case, lipids) from simpler substances.There are some essential fatty acids (EFA) that are required in the diet because they do a lot more than just give the horse energy. These EFA form the lipo-protein layers of the cell membranes, structures of microsomes and nuclei. Also, some fats act as antioxidants, which protect cells, and are important for making hormones that our horses bodies need to work properly. In addition, these fats can combine with other things like phosphates and sugars to create a variety of oil types. There are different fatty acids, both in terms of chain length and the position of the unsaturated bonds. Polyunsaturated Fatty Acids (PUFA) are a varied class of fatty acids, which have a supportive function in the active horse. Oils contain various substances that help with the bodys metabolism, influencing a horses overall health and condition. A horse with forage in its diet has access to oils with a high proportion of polyunsaturated fatty acidWhat type of oil is best?When it comes to functional properties then the types of the fatty acids do matter. Although there is a certain amount of transition between omega-3 and -6, the individual acids do have differing functions. Omega-6 fatty acids, along with omega-3 and omega-9, are important for vascular structure & function, as well as being a precursor for signalling molecules that support regulatory processes such as inflammation.Omega-7 and omega-9 help support exercising muscle activity, whereas omega-3 is associated with anti-inflammatory support, insulin sensitivity and allergen mitigation.It is generally accepted that the ideal ratio of omega-6: omega-3 is 4:1, but most of the materials fed to horses have an oil profile heavily leaning towards omega-6 (206:1 for sunflower, 7:1 for soya). As such, introducing an oil that has high levels of omega-3 is needed to reduce this ratio the best source for this is linseed oilWhy Linseed Oil?As well as providing sufficient levels of omega-3 to achieve a better profile, linseed oil contains significant levels of natural vitamin E and vitamin C.On top of this, linseed oil contains a range of bioactive components that have antioxidant properties, and therefore health benefits such as vascular function all important for wellbeing and condition.Choosing an oil source simply for energy is easy, but by choosing linseed, you are also selecting an oil that supplies a bioactive function, promoting good health and wellbeing in your horse and a slow release of energy rather than making your horse or pony hotIs it best to use Linseed Oil or Cooked Linseed?Due to the higher fibre content and cooking process, your horse will be able to absorb more nutrients from the Cooked Linseed rather than oil due to the ease of digestibility.British Horse Feeds Cooked Linseed is an ideal source. With 39% oil, almost a half of which is as omega-3 fatty acids, it provides a protein source rich in components that help provide the right kind of energy, maintain musculature and recovery and is easy to feed.Cooked Linseed provides the energy, simplicity and versatility of a complementary feed for the horse. Ready to feed straight from the sack, Cooked Linseed is a good nutritious feed for energy, performance, condition, skin and coat and wellbeing and is also suitable for those horses and ponies prone to laminitis.Click here to find out more about Cooked Linseed and to find your local stockist.The post BHF Nutrition The best source of oil for condition appeared first on British Horse Feeds.

Which fibre source is best for my horse?The importance of feeding a horse fibre has become more and more recognised over the last decade as owners have become more educated. Consequently, every horse feed brand has launched a fibre product, if not a full fibre range!How can we measure the fibre % in feeds?In a world where there are a lot of fibre sources available for horses, it is interesting to see how they compare, but what is the best way to do this comparison? The main figure for fibre shown on the packaging of most feeds is crude fibre, however, thats not the figure you should be looking at. Crude fibre may be high, however, crude fibre is made up by mainly insoluble fibre (not able to be digested by the horse), so you must consider the digestible energy (DE) content of the feed.What is digestible energy?DE is an estimate of the energy components of a feedstuff that is digested/fermented and absorbed across the gut wall. In horses, DE tends to be calculated based on nutrient analysis.The DE of a feed is affected by components that include Lignin, Cellulose, Hemicellulose, Soluble Fibre, Fructans and fermentation:Lignin is the woody component. Unlike fibre, lignin is not degraded by bacteria/protozoa, only a few species of fungus. As such it is relatively undigestible for horses and impacts on overall digestibility. The higher the lignin content, the poorer the digestibility of fibre.Cellulose are beta-linked chains of glucose molecules and as a result, are the purest of fibres. Cellulose has relatively low fermentability, therefore high levels of cellulose will reduce the DE of the fibre material.Hemicellulose are chains of a range of sugars, their combinations impact the overall digestibility and proportion of slow-release energy. Hemicellulose has a good level of fermentability as some sugar combinations make them more accessible to bacterial enzymes.Soluble Fibre These include pectins, functional fibres such as oligosaccharides, and soluble properties of hemicellulose. Soluble fibre has the highest fermentability, and so DE. Bacteria need to be in physical contact with their feedstuff to digest it. Being in a soluble form, all of the bacteria is in contact and so more fibre is fermented.Fructans Although technically a fibre, these easily fermented sugars tend to be grouped under Water Soluble Carbohydrates (WSC) or sugars. Sugars tend to be broken down by microbes into short-chain fatty acids.Fermentation is an integrated system. The base materials of fibre types will favour certain microbes. For example, it has been shown that pectin improves groups such as bacteroides and butyrivibrio which in turn can ferment hemicellulose. Additionally other species can break down byproducts; for example, bacteria in the small intestine can utilise lactic acid, but they are not present in the hindgut, so build-up of this acid can occur in the caecum of the horse.So, now that we can understand components that affect DE, what does this mean for common fibre feeds that we are giving our horses?Speedi-Beet/Fibre-Beet research shows effective fibre breakdown and energy value with a good level of DE. Our data suggests Speedi-Beet/Fibre-Beet has at least a 10% advantage over standard beet. However, the source of beet pulp can impact hugely on quality, this is why we use a single source British grown beet pulp.Forages Generally, DE is relatively low in forage, although haylage is to a certain extent pre-digested. As it has little to no soluble fibre, combining it with Speedi-Beet/Fibre-Beet may give an extra boost, as pectin fermenters also help the fermentation of other fibre sources. As forages tend to be relatively low in Lignin, the potential for increased digestibility is present.Chaff/Straw Cereal chaff has a very high Lignin component. It can be useful for diluting forage energy, but otherwise a product with low DE due to the fibre content being Lignin. Straws again are relatively high in Lignin and low in soluble fibre, giving them a low DE.Alfalfa (Lucerne hay version) has an elevated lignin level, and a low soluble level which gives a mid-range DE value.Soya Hulls Although regarded as a super fibre, and having a very low Lignin content, this is balanced with a mid-level soluble fibre. However, a useful fibre source for improving fibre profile in a horses diet.Oat Hulls & Oatfeed Depending on the level of milling these products may have reasonable soluble levels. However, relatively high Lignin which will depress the DE. The higher levels of starch and sugars in outfeed also increase energy levels. Although a good product, it needs to be fed at reasonable levels as oat starch is particularly digestible and unlikely to reach the hind gut, so would not be suitable as a forage.Almond Hulls As with oatfeed, a high sugar content maintains mid-range DE, despite lower fibre content and high Lignin. The presence of soluble fibre may also add to DE. Again, as with oatfeed Almond Hulls would not be suitable as a forage replacer.Rice Hulls Low starch & sugar, high Lignin and little to no soluble fibre means poor degradability and low DE. However, due to its high fibre content it could be used as a forage/straw replacer.Copra High protein, moderate fibre, low lignin and no soluble fibre makes a relatively high DE, due to the relatively high sugar content. However, it would not be suitable as a forage replacer.The above materials can all be considered effective horse feedstuffs but, depending on their characteristics, do not directly have the same uses as Speedi-Beet or Fibre-Beet. The data we have suggests that Speedi-Beet /Fibre-Beet helps boost the nutrient value of forage, thereby reducing the reliance on hard feed.It certainly is not as simple as comparing the crude fibre % on the bag of feed! Remember, horses are hindgut fermenters and therefore feeding a fermentable fibre such as beet pulp will give your horse a higher fibre diet compared to other alternatives.It has long been the philosophy of BHF that the feeding regime of forage, fibre and feed is recommended. Added fibre helps make up shortfalls in the forage and potentially reduces the need for hard feed.TDF % ComparisonsProductSpeedi-BeetCereal ChaffSoya HullsOat HullsGrass PelletAlfalfa%TDF687565655368It is worth noting that cereal chaff shows high %TDF due to a very high cellulose content of 55%. This is compared to, for example, 32% for soya hulls or 16% for Speedi-Beet. When we add up all of the nutrients such as fibre (71% alone), protein, oil etc. theres no space left for soluble fibre.In conclusion, as DE is the amount of absorbable (digested) energy components, and fibre energy is released by hindgut microbial fermentation, the rate of fermentation of each fibre component is time limiting (rate of gut passage). Soluble fibre is more rapidly ferments than insoluble, and so fibre sources with high soluble components will have higher DE than those with high insoluble. There are, of course interactions with this (prebiotic effect of soluble pectin, or depressing effect of lignin) that will affect the DE of the fibre but, generally speaking, beet-based fibre feeds will have higher DE per unit of fibre than other sources.As such, both Speedi-Beet & Fibre-Beet can be regarded as superior fibre sources. Find out more here.The post BHF Nutrition Feeding Fibre appeared first on British Horse Feeds.

This month we have a selection of fabulous prizes up for grabs: Poultice Kits from Robinsons Animal Healthcare, a Hoof Care package from Absorbine, a VisiWhip, plus aTara Hybrid Cooler Rug from Mackey.For your chance to win one of these amazing prizes, click enter now below. 10 readers* will each receive a Poultice Kit from Robinsons Animal HealthcareYour Horse has teamed up with Robinsons Animal Healthcare to give away a poultice kit to 10 lucky readers.The kit contains everything an owner will need to treat an infected wound or unexpected hoof abscess, including a pack of Animalintex, a pack of Animalintex Hoof Treatment and two Equiwrap Cohesive Bandages.Animalintex is a multi-layered poultice and wound dressing that can be applied either as a wet, hot or cold poultice, or as a dry dressing.Animalintex contains boric acid, an active ingredient that acts as an antiseptic, minimising infection and reinfection and promoting faster healing. Tragacanth, a natural poulticing agent, is activated by water. It draws out dirt and infection, reduces inflammation and creates a clean area for the wound to heal.Four winners will each receive a hoof care package of products from AbsorbineThis practical bundle of prizes from Absorbine includes: A bottle of Hooflex Original Liquid Conditioner. This unique formula contains nine beneficial ingredients and helps to maintain the pliability of the entire hoof by providing the conditioners necessary for proper moisture balance.SuperShine Hoof Polish & Sealer Black gives hooves a high-gloss, mirror-like finish. Its quick-drying formula helps to prevent dirt and dust from settling on the show-winning shine.Hooflex Frog & Sole Care helps to soothe the hoof and eliminates odours caused by bacteria and fungi. The liquid formula promotes normal healing, penetrates the frog and sole tissue and wont sting, stain, or dry the hoof.Six lucky readers will each receive a VisiWhip and flag in a design of their choiceEncourage other road users give space to horse and rider with the VisiWhip.The VisiWhip is available in three lengths (short, medium and long). The flags are made from light, rip-stop material and they feature light-reflective tape to offer maximum impact from light reflecting off a vehicles headlights.VisiWhip flags mount easily with a Velcro and clip fastening onto any dressage-style whip, which enables the user to remove the flag when they just want to use it as a whip.Five Mackey Tara Hybrid Cooler Rugs to give awayFive lucky horses will look great and stay comfortable if they are one of the lucky recipients of a Mackey Tara Hybrid Cooler Rug. This modern cooler design combines a fine mesh lower half with a soft contoured top line.This is a versatile high-performance rug which effectively wicks away moisture, providing maximum breathability and ensuring overall temperature regulation and comfort for the equine.It is also ideal for use when travelling, after training or competitions, or to dry off following washing.Enter here*UK winners onlyThe closing date is 18 July 2024The post Win a cooler rug, a hoof care kit and much more. appeared first on Your Horse.

Cushing Disease is a malfunction of the pituitary gland a small gland in the brain that produces the Adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH). This hormone regulates cortisol release from the adrenal glands in response to stress, to prepare the horse for flight or fight. Horses with Cushings have too much ACTH and so the animal is in a constant state of excitement.This has biochemical implications to prepare for flight, the body elevates glucose levels. In Cushings, the elevated glucose and cortisol has a constant effect in clearing the decks for flight. This includes increasing fat and amino acid deposition and diverting glucose from the muscles to power these functions. This results in the standard symptoms oEquine Metabolic syndrome (EMS) is a condition which alters levels of glucose and the bodys ability to metabolise (processing of substances in order to be used) fat in horses and ponies. The condition is characterised by obesity, fat deposits in certain areas, and laminitis. The underlying biology of EMS involves resistance or insensitivity to insulin which results in a variety of physiological changes.EMS causes changes in the tiny organisms that live in a horses gut which results in less variety of these microorganisms in these horses. Specifically, there are fewer of a kind called Fibrobacter and more of another kind called Verrucomicrobia. Because of these changes, theres a low level of ongoing inflammation in the body. This situation leads to an increase in harmful substances from bacteria, which can cause more inflammation and make the body less responsive to insulin, a condition worsened by being overweight.Feeding a horse with EMS should prioritise supporting the natural inflammation cycle to optimise its progress. Providing antioxidants, feeding to reduce nutrient imbalance, avoiding overfeeding and optimising the horses normal diet and feeding behaviour, are all positive actions that may be beneficial to compromised animalsNutritional and management response to Cushings is fairly consistent in its recommendations and is based around the need to exercise the horse and limit its intake of Non-Structural Carbohydrates (basically starch, fructans and free sugars). Exercise, as long as the horse does not have laminitis, will help re-direct glucose back to the muscles and mobilise fat reserves.Reducing starch intake will avoid elevated insulin. High insulin can reverse the mobilisation of fats and amino acids. Additionally, too much starch can lead to undigested material entering the hindgut, disruption of hindgut microbes and the potential to trigger laminitis.Finally, reducing fructans (the storage sugar of grasses especially high in Spring) will also avoid high insulin/poor hindgut functions.Beet products, such as Speedi-Beet and Fibre-Beet are extremely low in starch and sugars and have a fermentation pattern in the hindgut that is similar to grass but is also reported to stimulate those bacteria that ferment structural carbohydrates.They therefore enhance the fermentation of fibre producing more volatile fatty acids (VFAs) that are the mainstay of energy production for the horse. Propionic acid can replace dietary glucose (starch) biochemically, whilst the other VFAs enter the energy producing pathways further down. Additionally, beet fermentation produces less lactic acid than grass, and it is lactic alongside toxic metabolites from the disrupted microflora that initiate laminitis.Feeding relatively low levels ofSpeedi-Beet (typically 500g), with its available energy, can reduce reliance on compound feeds, some of which may be very high in starch. Fibre-Beet used as a forage replacer can offset high fructans intake. Combining the two gives the flexibility of being able to react to most situations where low Non-Structural Carbohydrates are essential for continued vitality.Find out more about Speedi-Beet and Fibre-Beet here and see where your local stockist is to purchase your next bagThe post BHF Nutrition EMS and Cushings appeared first on British Horse Feeds.

The (ISH)[TIH] suffix gets 11 Placed horses and a total of 48 other mentions in this weeks results, reminding everyone of their importance to the the Irish gene pool. See below this weeks results. Luhmuhlen International (GER) 12th 16th June 2024 CCI 5* Long 2nd CHF Cooliser (ISH)[was Coaliser] 2010 mare by Womanizer (KWPN) out of Super Spring (ISH) by Ramiro B (BWP). Breeder: Raymond Carroll (Offaly). Rider: Tom McEwen (GBR) 30.8, 0, 5.2 = 36.0 3rd Rehy DJ (ISH) 2010 gelding by Tinaranas Inspector (WESTF) out of Rehy Misty [ISH] by Big Sink Hope (TB). Breeder: Noel Russell (Clare). Rider: Yasmin Ingham (GBR) 36.9, 0, 0.0 = 36.9 8th Sammy Davis Junior (ISH) 2009 gelding by Imperial Hights (ISH)[TIH] out of Cornasaus Connie (ISH) by Condios (HOLST). Breeder: Amanda Vogan (Cavan). Rider: Jennifer Kuehnle (IRL) 32.0, 0.4, 14.0 = 46.4 Other Irish Sport Horses to []

Hey everyone! Its me again, but now Im a year older and bursting with even more excitement for the eventing season ahead. As a 17-year-old eventer, Im excited to share with you my latest updates, goals, and adventures in the world of eventing. So, lets dive right in and catch up on whats been happening over winter in my eventing journey!Setting Goals for 2024As I embark on this new year, Ive set my sights on some ambitious goals for myself and my horses. My main focus for 2024 revolves around progressing up the levels with Millie and Tango, aiming to reach CCI3* level by mid-season and establish consistency at the higher levels of eventing. Additionally, Im excited to take both Millie and Tango to the British Junior Championships at Belsay in June. Last year, Millie finished inside the top 15, but this year, Im determined to improve upon that performance with the ultimate goal of being selected to compete at the Junior Europeans in August. As for Candy, my fairly new addition to the team, I plan to kickstart her BE career and work towards consistency at BE100 level, with the possibility of attempting a CCI1* at the end of the season. However, as a typical chestnut mare, Candy certainly keeps me on my toes!Embracing The Howden Way Talent AcademyAt the beginning of 2024, I was thrilled to be selected to train on The Howden Way Talent Academy. This incredible opportunity has already brought me numerous benefits, including access to specialised training camps throughout the winter to prepare for the upcoming season. These camps have been immensely beneficial, allowing me to focus on specific areas of improvement and refine my skills ahead of the eventing season. The Academy also provides training camps before important competitions such as Belsay, enabling me to make any necessary adjustments before the big day. Ive had the privilege of learning from some truly incredible coaches who have helped me grow and develop as a rider.Prioritising Fitness for SuccessAs the start of the eventing season draws near, Ive made adjustments to my horses workload routines to prioritise their fitness. For example, Tango now engages in dedicated fitness work sessions 1-2 times a week, interspersed with schooling and hacking sessions. I firmly believe that a fit horse is a happy horse, and maintaining their energy and stamina is essential for peak performance, even in the winter months!Introducing My Latest Project: RedThroughout the winter months, Ive been busy breaking in Red, a rising 4-year-old Welsh Section D gelding. Its been an incredibly rewarding experience to watch him progress under my guidance, and Im excited to start taking him out to small competitions in the spring. Red happens to be the nephew of Batty, the horse with whom I proudly clinched the title of Scottish Grassroots BE100 Champion in 2023. Working with young horses like Red is both challenging and fulfilling, knowing that Im playing a significant role in their development and growth.Fine-Tuning Diets for Peak PerformanceWith the eventing season on the horizon and the horses workload increasing, its essential to ensure their diets are optimised for peak performance. Throughout the winter, the horses feed intake is adjusted to reflect their lower workload. However, as we ramp up training in preparation for the season, its crucial to support their increased energy needs with the right diet. Ive made adjustments to include more Speedi-Beet and Fibre-Beet in their diets to keep them hydrated and maintain efficient digestion. These fibre feeds provide slow-release energy without causing excessive weight gain, ensuring the horses remain in top condition for competition.As I turn another year older and continue to pursue my passion for eventing, Im filled with excitement and determination for the journey ahead. With new goals, exciting ventures, and a dedicated team by my side, Im ready to tackle whatever challenges come my way and strive for success in the eventing arena. Thank you for joining me on this exhilarating ride, and I cant wait to share more updates with you soon!British Horse Feeds are proud to have Ruby on board as a Brand Ambassador and are excited to follow her journey throughout her eventing career. Learn more about British Horse Feeds range of fibre feeds hereThe post Diary of a 17-Year Old Eventer: New Goals and Exciting Ventures appeared first on British Horse Feeds.

SourceBenefitsKey Amino AcidsSoybean MealHigh concentration of lysine; balanced amino acid profileLysine, Methionine, ThreonineAlfalfaHigh-protein forage; beneficial for heavy work, pregnant and lactating mares, growing horsesLysine, Methionine, ThreonineWhey ProteinHigh-quality protein; supports muscle mass and recoveryLysine, Methionine, ThreoninePea ProteinPlant-based; good for horses with sensitivitiesLysine, Methionine, ThreonineCommercial SupplementsBalanced mix of essential amino acids; supports muscle development and recoveryLysine, Methionine, ThreonineWhen to Supplement Amino AcidsHeavy TrainingSupports muscle repair and recoveryPoor Forage QualityEnsures necessary nutrientsWeight ControlMaintains muscle mass and overall healthDevelopmental IssuesSupports growth and development Best Source of Amino Acids for HorsesBest Source of Amino Acids for HorsesAmino acids are the building blocks of proteins, which are essential for the growth, repair, and maintenance of tissues in horses. Ensuring that your horse receives the right balance of amino acids is crucial for their overall health, performance, and recovery. In this blog, we will explore the best sources of amino acids for horses, the importance of these nutrients, and how to effectively incorporate them into your horse's diet.Understanding Amino Acids and Their ImportanceAmino acids are organic compounds that combine to form proteins. There are 20 different amino acids required for protein synthesis, out of which 10 are essential for horses. These essential amino acids cannot be synthesized by the horse's body and must be obtained through their diet. The essential amino acids for horses include:ArginineHistidineIsoleucineLeucineLysineMethioninePhenylalanineThreonineTryptophanValineAmong these, lysine, methionine, and threonine are often the most limited in typical equine diets and are crucial for muscle development, growth, and overall health. Learn more about amino acids.Best Sources of Amino AcidsSoybean MealSoybean meal is considered the "ideal" protein source for horses due to its high concentration of lysine and balanced amino acid profile. It is particularly effective in providing the essential amino acids that are often deficient in forage-based diets. AlfalfaAlfalfa is a high-protein forage that can significantly contribute to the amino acid needs of horses. It is especially beneficial for horses in heavy work, pregnant and lactating mares, and growing youngsters. Alfalfa can be fed as hay or pellets, making it a versatile option for many horse owners. Whey ProteinWhey protein is another excellent source of high-quality protein and essential amino acids. It is particularly useful for horses that require additional protein without increasing their caloric intake. Whey protein can help improve muscle mass and support recovery after exercise. Pea ProteinPea protein is a plant-based protein source that is rich in essential amino acids. It is a good alternative for horses that may have sensitivities to other protein sources. Pea protein can be used to supplement diets that are low in crude protein or have an incorrect nitrogen to sulphur ratio. Commercial SupplementsThere are various commercial supplements available that provide a balanced mix of essential amino acids. These supplements are designed to ensure that horses receive the necessary nutrients for optimal health and performance. Products like More Muscle Pellets and Tye-Gard Solution offer a combination of amino acids, antioxidants, and other nutrients to support muscle development and recovery. When to Supplement Amino AcidsSupplementing amino acids is particularly important in the following scenarios:Heavy TrainingHorses involved in intense training or competition have increased metabolic demands and may require additional amino acids to support muscle repair and recovery. Read more about amino acids and training.Poor Forage QualityIf the forage is low in crude protein or has an incorrect nitrogen to sulphur ratio, supplementing with amino acids can help ensure that the horse receives the necessary nutrients. Weight ControlHorses on restricted diets to control weight may benefit from targeted amino acid supplementation to maintain muscle mass and overall health. Developmental IssuesGrowing horses or those with poor muscle condition may require additional amino acids to support proper growth and development. Find out more about amino acids for young horses.ConclusionEnsuring that your horse receives the right balance of amino acids is crucial for their health, performance, and recovery. Soybean meal, alfalfa, whey protein, pea protein, and commercial supplements are all excellent sources of essential amino acids. By understanding your horse's specific needs and incorporating these sources into their diet, you can help them achieve optimal health and performance.For more detailed information on amino acids and protein requirements for horses, you can refer to the following sources:Forage Plus: Protein and Amino Acids for HorsesForage Plus: Essential Amino Acids for HorsesEquine America: Horse Musclecare SupplementsFullBucket Health: Amino Acids for HorsesPLOS One: Modelling of Amino Acid Turnover in the Horse During Training Frequently Asked Questions: Best Source of Amino Acids for HorsesFrequently Asked QuestionsHow do I add amino acids to my horse's diet?You can add amino acids to your horse's diet by including high-protein feeds such as soybean meal, alfalfa, and whey protein. Additionally, commercial amino acid supplements are available and can be mixed into your horse's regular feed to ensure they receive the necessary nutrients for optimal health and performance.What horse feed is high in amino acids?Feeds that are high in amino acids include soybean meal, alfalfa, and pea protein. These feeds provide a rich source of essential amino acids like lysine, methionine, and threonine, which are crucial for muscle development, growth, and overall health.What is the best source of amino acids?The best source of amino acids for horses includes soybean meal due to its high concentration of lysine and balanced amino acid profile. Alfalfa is also a great source, especially for horses in heavy work or those that are pregnant or lactating. Whey protein and commercial supplements can also effectively provide the essential amino acids needed for optimal health.Can a horse get too many amino acids?While it's important for horses to receive an adequate amount of amino acids, excessive intake is generally not a concern as long as their diet is well-balanced. However, it's always best to consult with a veterinarian or equine nutritionist to tailor a feeding program that meets your horse's specific needs without over-supplementing.

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