Cross-country riding puts huge demands on a horses legs. Fast ground, water complexes, tight turns, solid fences. The right eventing boots need to offer protection without adding unnecessary weight or restricting movement, there needs to be a simple solution to thisThats why the Premier Equine eventing boot range has become a go-to choice for many riders at every level of the sport.Designed specifically for the demands of eventing, the collection combines lightweight materials, advanced airflow technology, and durable strike protection to help horses stay comfortable and protected from the start box to finish.Cooling Technology That Works While Your Horse MovesOne of the biggest challenges during cross-country is heat build-up around the tendons. Protective boots are essential, but poorly ventilated designs can trap heat and moisture during intense work.Premier Equines patented Air-Cooled technology was developed to combat this. As the horse gallops, air enters through the front vents, circulates around the leg, and exits through side vents, creating continuous airflow throughout the boot while the horse is in moving.The result is a lightweight, breathable boot designed to support performance without overheating.Many styles within the range also feature EVA lining, helping to prevent water absorption so the boots dont become heavy after water complexes or wet ground conditions, something event riders know can make a huge difference late on course.Finding Your Horses Best Fit:The Air Cooled Original Eventing BootsThe Air Cooled Original Eventing Boots remain one of the most recognised styles within the range and for good reason. Constructed from durable 2520D ballistic nylon and supple microfibre leather, they balance flexibility with reliable everyday protection for cross-country riding.The front boots are shaped around the fetlock to allow unrestricted movement while galloping and jumping, while strike guards help protect tendons and ligaments from knocks and overreach injuries. Hind boots feature a high-cut design for additional coverage against impacts and scrapes.Ventilation remains a key focus throughout, with six air vents in the front boots and eight in the hind boots helping to maximise airflow during exercise.Carbon Tech Air Cooled Eventing BootsFor riders wanting enhanced durability with a sleek, professional finish, the Carbon Tech Air Cooled Eventing Boots offer another high-performance option.Crafted entirely from Carbon Tech microfibre leather, these boots are designed to be stronger than traditional leather while remaining lightweight, flexible, and comfortable against the horses leg. The material moulds naturally to the leg without losing its shape and is fully machine washable, ideal for busy competition schedules throughout the season.Like the Original boots, the Carbon Tech design incorporates the patented airflow system alongside strategically placed strike guards for reliable protection across country.Air Cooled Super Lite Carbon Tech Eventing/Racing BootsFor horses that perform best in lighter equipment, the Air Cooled Super Lite Carbon Tech Eventing/Racing Boots offer a more streamlined alternative.Favoured by both event riders and racehorse trainers, the Super Lite design reduces bulk while maintaining essential protection where it matters most. The front boots feature a less sculpted fetlock design to decrease weight, while the hind boots are cut shorter for a lighter feel during fast work.Despite the lighter profile, protection remains a priority, with strike guards shielding vulnerable areas from knocks and impacts over solid fences.Whose Using Them This Season?This season, well also be following our sponsored riders as they campete horses across the eventing calendar wearing Premier Equine eventing boots.Paul Tapner, is one of the most respected cross-country riders in the sport and a previous winner of the Badminton Horse Trials. His experience at the very highest level of international eventing makes performance equipment an essential part of everyday preparation.Jemima Howden continues to establish herself as one of Britains exciting young event riders, having represented Team GB at the Young Rider Europeans and recently stepping up to 4* level as part of the GB Talent Academy.Lizzie Baugh has enjoyed continued success at CCI4* level, including victory at Chatsworth aboard her homebred horse, B Exclusive. With a busy competition schedule and multiple horses to campaign throughout the season, reliable performance equipment remains a key part of her setup.From training at home to galloping out of the start box at major events, all three riders trust Premier Equine eventing boots to deliver the protection, comfort, and performance needed for modern day eventing.

11 min read Last updated: January 2026 If your horse cant lift and lower its head freely, every mile risks stress, breathing issues and a costly scrape under low bridges. Youll learn the UK ruleminimum internal height is your horses withers height + 75 cmplus how to measure, plan safe clearance, and route-check so you travel confidently and protect your horse. Quick Summary Short on time? Here are the key takeaways. Area: Legal Headroom What To Do: Measure your horses withers in centimetres, add 75 cm, and ensure your trailers internal height meets or exceeds that figure. Write the number in the cab. Why It Matters: Its a UK welfare requirement and allows safe head and neck movement. Common Mistake: Estimating in hands or inches and falling short of the legal minimum. Area: Measure Horse & Trailer What To Do: Measure withers height, interior height, width and stall length yourself with a tape; convert to cm and metres; confirm against the spec. Keep a laminated dimensions card. Why It Matters: Accurate measurements prevent poor fit, stress and injury. Common Mistake: Relying on memory or sales brochures. Area: Overhead Clearance What To Do: Maintain at least 30 cm clearance above your trailers highest point for bridges, trees and barriers; stop and measure doubtful obstacles. Why It Matters: Cushion for road camber, suspension travel and error prevents collisions. Common Mistake: Proceeding under structures without a verified margin. Area: Stall Fit & Partitions What To Do: Allow 20 cm side clearance each side; use around 11 ft stalls for tall horses and 12 ft for drafts; set partitions wider; tie long enough for natural head drop. Why It Matters: Proper space aids balance and reduces respiratory risk and fatigue. Common Mistake: Narrow stalls and tight ties that force the head high. Area: Route Planning What To Do: Use height-aware satnav, phone venues for lowest points, and do a slow dry run; walk tricky access in hi-vis and avoid routes you havent checked after storms. Why It Matters: Prevents getting trapped at low bridges or damaged by overhanging branches. Common Mistake: Assuming a normal car route will suit a horsebox or trailer. Area: Towing Limits What To Do: Keep your combined load within 80% of the tow vehicles rating; stick to 50 mph single carriageways and 60 mph dual/motorways; add time for detours. Why It Matters: Maintains braking, steering and stability when you must manoeuvre. Common Mistake: Overloading or driving to car-speed schedules. Area: Upsize When Needed What To Do: If withers + 75 cm exceeds your trailer, upgrade to a taller trailer or horsebox; for heavy horses, confirm axles, floor supports and tyres are uprated. Why It Matters: Adequate headroom and engineering protect the horse and structure. Common Mistake: Making do with millimetres to spare or unverified modifications. Area: Travel Kit What To Do: Carry a 510 m tape, laminated height card, height-filter satnav, hi-vis, clearance pole, travel boots and a first-aid kit; label overall vehicle height inc. vents. Why It Matters: The right kit lets you verify, reroute and protect quickly. Common Mistake: Setting off without tools to confirm heights and protect the horse. In This Guide Why trailer height matters and the UK legal minimum How to measure your horse and your trailer correctly Safe clearance on UK roads, bridges and venues Stall width, length and partitions: what your horse needs Towing: matching vehicle, legalities and speed limits Pre-journey route planning and seasonal checks When your horse is too tall: options and upgrades Practical kit to make height and clearance easy Your horse only gets one head and neck. Choosing the right trailer height and planning for safe overhead clearance protects their airway, balance and confidence every mile of the journey.Key takeaway: In the UK, the legal minimum internal height is your horses withers height plus 75 cm. Add a further 30 cm margin for any overhead obstacles on route to protect your horse and your trailer.Why trailer height matters and the UK legal minimumThe UK legal minimum trailer or horsebox internal height is the tallest horses withers height plus 75 cm. This is a welfare requirement, not just advice, set out in GOV.UK (DEFRA) guidance.That extra 75 cm gives your horse room to raise and lower their head, clear the ceiling over bumps, and use their neck to balance. World Horse Welfare emphasises that more space improves comfort and reduces the risk of respiratory issues during travel when horses are forced to hold their heads too high.The current recommendations for space allowance are 20 cm both sides and 75 cm above wither height. Horses should be able to comfortably move their head and neck up and down; having their head held in a higher position when travelling can increase the risk of respiratory infection. World Horse WelfareTypical UK two-horse trailers have an interior height of about 2.132.32 m (77 ft 6 in), which suits many horses up to around 15.216.0 hands if they meet the legal formula (Farmhouse Tack). Always measure your individual horse: a 15.2hh with withers around 155 cm needs at least 230 cm (7 ft 6 in) internal height; a taller 16hh type may need 235 cm (7 ft 8 in) to comply.For bigger horses, interior height must increase accordingly. Some US sizing guides suggest 6 ft 8 in (2.03 m) for horses up to 18hh (EquiSpirit), but UK law is stricter: withers + 75 cm is the rule. For very large horses and drafts, that often means moving from a standard trailer to a taller horsebox. The British Horse Society (BHS) notes large horseboxes commonly stand 3.14 m high overall (vehicle height), reflecting the increased internal space.Quick tip: Dont guess your horses height in hands. Measure with a stick and convert to centimetres. The legal formula is in cm, so work in cm for precision.How to measure your horse and your trailer correctlyMeasure your horses withers height on level ground, then add 75 cm to get your minimum internal height. Next, confirm your trailers internal height from floor to roof at the highest point and compare.Follow this simple process:Measure withers height to the top of the shoulder using a measuring stick or tape, in centimetres.Add 75 cm (29.5 in). Thats your legal minimum internal height requirement.Measure your trailers interior height, interior width and stall length. Dont rely on memory or sales brochuresmeasure it.Write the exact dimensions in metres and feet on a laminated card and keep it in the cab.For hands-on measuring, a sturdy tape is ideal; browse grooming and yard essentials to keep your kit organised: grooming and yard tools.As a quick reference:Example: 15.2hh with 155 cm withers 155 + 75 = 230 cm (7 ft 6 in) minimum internal height.Example: Compact 16hh with 160 cm withers 160 + 75 = 235 cm (7 ft 8 in) minimum internal height.Also check stall length and width. EquiSpirit advises around 11 ft (3.35 m) stall length for tall horses up to 18hh and 12 ft (3.66 m) for heavy drafts, with stronger axles, floor supports and tyres for weight and stability (EquiSpirit).Ensure the trailers interior height is several inches higher than your horses withers to allow for comfort and head movement. Farmhouse TackPro tip: If you buy second-hand, ask for the original spec sheet and measure everything yourself. If dimensions dont match, walk away.Safe clearance on UK roads, bridges and venuesYou should maintain at least 30 cm clearance above the highest point of your trailer or horsebox before passing under any structure. If you cant confirm that margin, dont proceed.Why 30 cm? Road surfaces vary, tyres compress over bumps, and suspension travels. That buffer protects both your horse and your roofline. The BHS highlights that small horseboxes often stand 2.63.0 m high and large horseboxes 3.14.0 m overall, and many rural approaches were never designed for vehicles above 3.0 m (BHS guidance).Plan routes with height in mind:Use satnavs or apps with height and weight restrictions to avoid low bridges and unsuitable lanes.Before a new venue, phone ahead to ask for lowest bridge/barrier heights and tight gateway turns.Do a slow dry run if possible. Stop and measure doubtful obstacles with a tape or marked polenever guess. If in doubt, read our towing safety checklist.Seasonal note: UK hedgerows and tree canopies can drop 3050 cm into the carriageway by mid-summer, while winter storms leave partially fallen limbs at dangerous heights. Assume overhanging branches are hazards; choose another route or ask landowners/councils to address obstructions.Quick tip: When youre out on foot checking a lane or yard approach, wear high-visibility gear for safety. Our rider hi-vis collection keeps you seen on busy or narrow roads.Stall width, length and partitions: what your horse needsHorses need at least 20 cm (8 in) of free space on each side and 75 cm above the withers to balance and travel comfortably. Narrow stalls and tight partitions increase fatigue and risk of slips.World Horse Welfare recommends wider stalls so horses can spread their legs and use their neck to stabilise. Allow adequate headroom and avoid fixing the head high for long periods to reduce respiratory risk.Key points:Side clearance: aim for 20 cm free space on both sides of the widest point (World Horse Welfare).Stall length: around 11 ft (3.35 m) for big horses up to 18hh; 12 ft (3.66 m) for heavy drafts (EquiSpirit).Position your horse square and centred. Avoid loading too far forward or at an acute angle if roof height is tightraising the head to rebalance can reduce clearance.Use appropriate travel protection. Travel boots and tail guards protect limbs and dock during braking and corneringsee our horse boots and bandages.Pro tip: Keep partitions wide and ties long enough for natural head and neck movement without allowing the nose to drop near the floor.Towing: matching vehicle, legalities and speed limitsStay within 80% of your vehicles rated towing capacity and obey UK towing speed limits: 50 mph on single carriageways, 60 mph on dual carriageways and motorways.Staying at or below 80% of your tow rating helps maintain braking, steering and stability when you need to crawl under trees, reverse off a low bridge approach or make an evasive manoeuvre. Overloading compromises control at exactly the wrong moment.Know your legal duties:Minimum internal height = withers height + 75 cm (UK law). Horses must not be carried on more than one deck (GOV.UK (DEFRA)).Commercial use and 3,500 kg thresholds: youll usually need a goods vehicle operator licence if you transport for commercial purposes with a combined gross plated weight over 3,500 kg (GOV.UK).Speed limits when towing: 60 mph on motorways/dual carriageways, 50 mph on single carriageways, which can add 2030% to journey times on rural routes (Moving Manes).At Just Horse Riders, we recommend planning travel days as if every mile could involve a slow detour for a height restriction. Build in generous time and hydration stops, and keep horses comfortable with the right seasonal layersfly protection in summer and warm, breathable layers for winter hold-overs at showgrounds. Explore fly rugs for summer travel and winter turnout rugs for pre- and post-journey comfort.Pre-journey route planning and seasonal checksAlways do a dry run of your route and leave at least 30 cm overhead margin at every known low point. If you havent checked it, dont drive under it.Build this routine before each trip:Confirm your trailers exact height (including any roof vents, racks or camera pods) and write it on a dash label.Check the route for low bridges, barriers and tree growth. Phone venues for approach details and the tightest turn/lowest arch measurements.After storms or high winds, assume fallen limbs. Never try to brush through light branchesmany hide solid boughs at windscreen level.Walk tricky access on foot first when safe to do so. Use hi-vis and carry a measuring pole or tape.Do a loaded test (sandbags or water drums) to simulate suspension travel if youve never taken that route.Pro tip: Keep treats handy to reward calm loading/unloading during route checks or detours. Our popular horse treats make positive reinforcement easy on the move.When your horse is too tall: options and upgradesIf your horses withers + 75 cm exceeds your trailers interior height, you need a taller solutionfull stop. For borderline cases, dont make do: an anxious horse that cant drop its head will travel poorly and risks injury.Your options:Move to a taller trailer model (7 ft 6 in to 7 ft 8 in internal height) if within legal formula for your horse.Hire or purchase a horsebox with sufficient headroom; BHS notes large horseboxes commonly stand 3.14.0 m overall, offering greater internal heights (BHS).For drafts approaching 19hh and ~2,000 lbs, plan for around 8 ft (2.44 m) internal height and a 12 ft (3.66 m) stall, plus upgraded axles, floor supports and tyres (EquiSpirit).Be careful if a trailer company does not have various model sizes in their lineup, but is just adding footage and width without upgrading tires, floor structure, axle rating, and re-engineering the balance of the trailer. EquiSpiritNever compromise structural integrity or load rating to chase more space. Increased height and length change the trailers centre of gravity and stress on componentsspeak to the manufacturer and request proof of axle and floor capacity for your horses weight and size.Quick tip: If youre between sizes, err larger. Horses travel better with more headroom and a little more width than with less.Practical kit to make height and clearance easyThese low-cost additions make measuring, planning and safe travel simpler:Measuring kit: Keep a 510 m tape for withers height, interior height and bridge checks. Organise stable-side tools with our grooming and yard accessories.Laminated dimension card: Record interior height/width, stall length, and overall vehicle height in metres and feet; mount on your dash.Satnav with height filters: Use HGV/horsebox-friendly routing to avoid low bridges and weight-restricted lanes.Magnetic clearance pole or hi-vis cord: Test doubtful arches before you commit; wear hi-vis for roadside safety.Travel protection: Fit quality travel boots and tail guards from our horse boots and bandages range to protect during braking and turns.Seasonal layers: Summer journeys need airflow and fly defence; winter waits need warmth. Browse fly rugs and sheets and trusted brands like WeatherBeeta for breathable comfort.Show-day comfort: For those long, weather-exposed holds, consider an extra stable layer from turnout rug collections to keep muscles warm.At Just Horse Riders, we recommend keeping a compact travel first-aid kit onboard and a pair of gloves and hat for handlers. If you step out to check a low bridge on a busy road, behave like a road worker: be seen, be methodical, and never guess heights.FAQsHow do I know if my trailer is tall enough for my horse?Measure your horses withers height and add 75 cmthe UK legal minimum internal height. Compare that figure to your trailers internal height. For example, a typical 16hh horse (155160 cm at the withers) needs about 230235 cm (7 ft 6 in7 ft 8 in). Source: GOV.UK (DEFRA) and World Horse Welfare.Whats a safe overhead margin under bridges or trees?Leave a minimum 30 cm clearance above your trailer or horseboxs highest point to account for surface variation, suspension movement and error. If you cant verify at least 30 cm, do not proceed. Guidance informed by BHS practical advice.What should I do if Im unsure about clearance under a structure?Stop, exit safely in hi-vis, and measure with a tape or marked pole. Check against your vehicles recorded height (include any roof racks/vents). If in doubt, find an alternative route or proceed only with a ground guide. See our towing safety guidance for more tips.Can overhanging branches damage my trailer or injure my horse?Yes. Branches can puncture roof panels and vents; a limb striking the horse can cause injury and panic. After storms, treat any partially fallen tree as a severe risk and avoid. Source: World Horse Welfare and BHS good practice.Are there specific regulations about trailer height in the UK?Yes. Minimum internal height must be 75 cm above the tallest horses withers, and horses may not be transported on more than one deck. Commercial transport over 3,500 kg combined may require an operator licence, and different licence categories may apply for heavier vehicles. Source: GOV.UK.How often should I re-check my trailers height and dimensions?After any repair or modification (roof racks, vents, aerials), annually before show season, and seasonally to reflect vegetation growth on routes. Keep a laminated card with exact heights in metres and feet in your cab.My tall horse fits with millimetres to spare. Is that acceptable?No. Meeting the legal minimum doesnt guarantee practical safety under real-world bumps and rebalancing. Increase headroom or use a taller horsebox so your horse can lower its head and travel comfortably, and maintain a 30 cm overhead margin for any route obstacles. Shop the Essentials Everything mentioned in this guide, ready to browse. Shop Hi-Vis GearShop Boots & BandagesShop Fly RugsShop Turnout RugsShop Grooming Kit

My parents were friends with Oliver Townends parents and when he won Badminton in 2009 I held the trophy and it has been my dream ever since to ride here..Sam Ecroyds usual role at Badminton is as supporter of his girlfriend, Emily King, but this year he is fulfilling a lifetimes ambition to ride here.In 2021, he suffered a serious fall, incurring a head injury and nearly 60 broken bones, and was resigned to a competition career restricted to the lower levels. The fall changed my perspective, he says. It was a humbling experience to be in a hospital bed, unable to do anything.Now, however, Sam, who has completed his dressage test on the 18hh Boleybawn LeCrae, scoring 36.9, and is one-third of the way through my first Badminton.Its so much better riding, he said delightedly. My girlfriends been here several times and its been horrible watching.My parents were friends with Oliver Townends parents and when he won Badminton in 2009 I held the trophy and it has been my dream ever since to ride here. And if ever there was the right horse to do my first Badminton on, Beleybawn LeCrae [Patrick] is the right one.

British-based American rider Tiana Coudray riding Cancaras Girl scored a personal best dressage score on the first day of MARS Badminton Horse Trials and is now in the lead at this early stage of the competition.The ground jury president Christina Klingspor (SWE), Amanda Miller (USA) and Angela Tucker (GBR) awarded only three sub-30 marks.Tiana is on 28.1 penalties, with Britains Will Rawlin (Ballycoog Breaker Boy) on 29.3 and the mornings leader, Bubby Upton riding Cola, scoring 29.8.Two Irish riders, Georgie Goss (Feloupe) and the 2024 runner-up Lucy Latta (RCA Patron Saint) are fourth and fifth and Britains Sarah Bullimore is currently in sixth place on the home-bred Corimiro.This is Tianas third Badminton with the Holsteiner mare Cancaras Girl who came from a show jumping yard 10 years ago and was originally for sale as a junior horse. She was a horse I saw on Facebook she was small, pretty and polite but never flashy and in the end I didnt sell her, Tiana explained.It is a privilege to be here a third time and I will be as competitive as I can be. Everything is the icing on the cake with her.Wiltshire-based Tiana, 37, is from California, where she competed in Irish dancing at world championship level. She began eventing through a school programme and came to England in 2011, representing the US at the 2012 Olympic Games.Will Rawlin, 32, is also competing at a third Badminton with his ride, the Irish Sport Horse Ballycoog Breaker Boy. Like Tiana, he lives in Wiltshire and is trained in dressage by Tracie Robinson.Ballycoog Breaker Boy felt fantastic coming into Badminton, said Will. He has had a good spring lead-up and I am very chuffed. We had a few mistakes, but there is plenty more to come.Newmarket-based Bubby Upton, who made a courageous recovery from serious spinal injury in 2023, has produced the 16-year-old Cola all the way from BE100 level through winning medals at the Young Rider Europeans to five-star level. To be here together for the fifth time is very special, she said. He is a horse that has fulfilled so many dreams.Todays riders are already looking ahead to Saturdays cross-country phase. Eric [Winter, course-designer] is an absolute genius, said Bubby. Its a helluva track, big intense and will get us thinking.Experienced five-star rider David Doel, who is lying 28th on his first ride, Ferro Point, said it was one of the fairest Badminton tracks. The combinations come up clearly to the horses and it should ride nicely. It is still jolly big, though!Dressage recomences at 10am tomorrow. World number one Harry Meade will be first into the arena with his second horse, Annaghmore Valoner.Ros Canter and Lordships Graffalo begin their title defence at 10.48am in front of HM The Queen, who is attending Badminton in her capacity as patron of the events designated charity, the Ebony Horse Club.Follow the competition on Badminton TV and Radio Badminton.

The Michigan Department of Agriculture confirmed a 5-year-old Quarter Horse stallion in Oceana County positive for strangles on May 6, 2026. He began showing signs of swollen, draining lymph nodes on April 23 and is currently recovering. Three other horses have been exposed, and the property is under voluntary quarantine.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.

An unvaccinated 20-year-old mare in Municipal District of Taber, Alberta, was confirmed positive for equine herpesvirus-1 after aborting a full-term colt on April 27. The owner has reported an unknown number of additional abortions, and the property is under voluntary quarantine.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.EHV 101Herpesvirus is highly contagious among horses and can cause a variety of ailments in equids, including rhinopneumonitis (a respiratory disease usually found in young horses), abortion in broodmares, and EHM.In many horses, the first or only sign of EHV-1 infection is fever, which can go undetected.In addition to fever, other common signs of EHV-1 infection in young horses include cough, decreased appetite, depression, and a nasal discharge. Pregnant mares typically show no signs of infection before they abort, and abortions usually occur late in gestation (around eight months) but can be earlier. Abortions can occur anywhere from two weeks to several months following infection with EHV-1.Horses with EHM usually have a fever at the onset of the disease and might show signs of a respiratory infection. A few days later, neurologic signs such as ataxia (incoordination), weakness or paralysis of the fore- and hind limbs, urine retention and dribbling, loss of tail tone, and recumbency (inability to rise) develop.Herpesvirus is easily spread by nose-to-nose or close contact with an infectious horse; sharing contaminated equipment including bits, buckets, and towels; or clothing, hands, or equipment of people who have recently had contact with an infectious horse.Routine biosecurity measures, including hygiene and basic cleaning and disinfection practices, should be in place at all times to help prevent disease spread.Current EHV-1 vaccines might reduce viral shedding but are not protective against the neurologic form of the disease. Implementing routine biosecurity practices is the best way to minimize viral spread, and the best method of disease control is disease prevention.

Photo: Shelley PaulsonEquine gastric ulcers are common in both performance andpleasurehorses, but the clinical signs can be easily overlooked. Affected horses might showpoor performance, changes in attitude, decreased appetite, or unexplainedweight loss. Because the horses stomach continuously produces acid and isdesigned forforaging, management factors such as intermittent feeding, high-starch diets, and stressfrom transport orworkcan contribute to ulcer development.The only way to definitively diagnose gastric ulcers is through gastroscopy, soitsimportant to work with your veterinarian if you suspect your horse might have gastric ulcers.Register now for this free Ask TheHorse Live event to submit your questions and learn more about equine gastric ulcers.Register NowAsk The Horse Live begins on Thursday, May 21, 2026 at 8:00 p.m. EDT Days Hours MinutesAbout the Experts: Laramie Winfield, DVM, Dipl. ACVIM, cVA, cVMMP Laramie Winfield, DVM, Dipl. ACVIM, cVA, cVMMP, grew up in the Salinas Valley, riding horses with her mom and sisters. Winfields professional interests are equine internal medicine, emergency and critical care, neonatology, acupuncture, sports medicine, and ophthalmology. Winfield is certified in veterinary acupuncture and is also a veterinary medical manipulation practitioner, having completed her training at the Integrative Veterinary Medical Institute in Reddick, Florida. In integrating her riding background with her training in internal medicine, acupuncture, and spinal manipulation Winfield strives to offer a comprehensive view of horse health and performance. Dr. Winfield is an equity partner at Steinbeck Peninsula Equine Clinics, in Salinas, California. She enjoys spending time with her husband Dr. Nick Carlson, and their children. She loves horseback riding and 3-Day eventing with her horse Franky. James D. Conway III, DVMJames D. Conway III, DVM, is the associate director of veterinary technical services at Bimeda. He previously held the same roles at Dechra Veterinary Products and Contura Vet. Conway has been an industry veterinarian for the past 10 years. Prior to his role in industry he served as an associate veterinarian at a large regional referral lameness and rehab facility in North Texas. Conway completed an internship at Equine Sports Medicine and Surgery, in Weatherford, Texas, and upon completion started his own lameness and sports medicine practice in the panhandle of Texas and Oklahoma. He is a 2012 graduate of Colorado State University Veterinary School, in Fort Collins, where he was heavily involved with equine stifle and condylar fracture research. Conway's publications over bisphosphonates, the equine stifle ethesis, and medial condylar fractures can be found in Equine Veterinary Education and Equine Veterinary Journal.

Horse Sport Ireland is pleased to announce the Class 1 Irish Draught stallion Moylough Legacy as Aprils Irish Draught Stallion of the Month.Moylough Legacy is by Carrabawn Cross (IDC1) and is out of Ardcarne Vilamear (RID) by Castana (IDC1).Bred in Co. Roscommon by John Gilboy, Moylough Legacy is owned by Patrick Hoare in Ballinasloe, Co. Galway. In 2016, Moylough Legacy earned his Class 1 status at the Horse Sport Ireland Stallion Selections in Cavan Equestrian Centre and then went on to win the Irish Draught Stallion Class at the RDS Dublin Horse Show in 2023 and became a Gold Merit stallion for his progenys achievements in 2024.Moylough Legacy winning the Irish Draught Stallion Class at the RDS Dublin Horse ShowSpeaking to Horse Sport Ireland about the stallion, Patricks daughter, Kate, gave us a little more insight into the history of Moylough Legacys history and future plans.My dad, Pat, and I are lucky to have two Class 1 RID Stallions and when I got asked to do this piece, I didnt know which one to pick a very fortunate position to be in! Given Moylough Supremacy garnered much attention after his back-to-back Champion titles in Dublin the last two years I decided to give the honour to the original and his older big brother Moylough Legacy.We always try and buy a couple of nice draught colts every year. I remember seeing Legacy advertised as a foal. I have a soft spot for a liver chestnut with a bit of bling so this ID colt for sale in Roscommon fitted the bill! I was in college in Dublin at the time and rang home giving instructions to go and get him bought. My cousin Sean Hoare went to see him with my dad who often recalls that Sean whispered stallion material when he saw him. Ten years later Sean would show Legacy to win the Irish Draught Stallion Class in Dublin so he obviously had a good eye! I actually didnt see him until he arrived home a few weeks later and I remember saying he was the nicest foal to come in to the yard he still holds this title!I always keep a list of potential names to use on horses some held for special ones and so this 2013 ID colt was christened Moylough Legacy.Legacy was bred by the late John Gilboy from Boyle in County Roscommon. John was a stalwart of the Irish draught breed and is very much missed ringside at the shows and sales with his biro in hand taking down the scores. Legacy is by Carrabawn Cross who was a relatively young stallion at the time and John said he chose him as he received the highest linear scores on the day of his inspections. So, the system must be working!Legacy was different to some of our other youngsters. I often find many yearlings and two-year-olds go a bit gangly and funny looking but Legacy never did he literally got more quality every day. He was often the one picked out by potential customers who came to look at young horses. We were pressed hard to sell him as a two-year-old to the UK as a show horse but decided to keep him what a different story that would have been.Legacy continued to bloom and he went up for inspections in 2016 achieving Class 1 status. It takes a lot of time, money and effort to get a colt to that level, so it was extremely fulfilling to achieve this. I attended the HSI inspections last week as a spectator and this was evident from many owners presenting colts who were clearly delighted when they achieved Class 1.We have had some amazing days in Dublin with Legacy. He was third there in 2016 on his debut as a three-year-old. We were thrilled with him as we didnt expect anything that day as he was so young. His sire Carrabawn Cross actually won the class the same day for PJ Fitzpatrick so a father and son in the first three was a great achievement.Legacy has had a great record in Dublin always being in the ribbons. He won the elusive Dublin Red rosette in 2023 after being the bridesmaid on many occasions a very memorable day.Probably the best part of being a stallion owner is seeing their horses progeny go on well and that is a huge aspect to promoting the stallion to get more mares and more importantly better mares every year. Legacys progeny have definitely done their sire proud with some fantastic results to include; a Dublin Champion, two Dublin winners, two National Show Supreme Champions, four all Ireland Champion titles and three Balmoral winners. In 2024 he was awarded a Gold Merit from HSI for his progenys achievements. It was down to the breeders who choose Legacy and the producers who brought his progeny to this level that allowed for this so thank you.Last week his son Coom View Legacy bred by Shane Connolly and owned by Sean OSullivan was approved a Class 1 RID Stallion at the HSI Stallion Inspections. He also has a son Dowdstown Moy standing as a stallion in America for Jordan Ellis.Legacy has also proved popular with thoroughbred and half-bred mare owners with his daughter Cois Luna being awarded TIH Horse of the year at the 2025 Showing awards for Sarah Lang, Tom Power and new owner Alastair Finlay. The ID/TB cross was the original cross for the Irish sport horse with the draught often deemed the backbone to the Irish sport horse industry. This cross had lost some momentum, but I think there is a swing back to this in recent years especially with the promotion of classes by the Traditional Irish Horse Association.Another aspect of owning a stallion is the number of connections you make and the people you meet along the way. I think this is actually my dads favourite part of owning a stallion.We were very fortunate to come across Moylough Legacy, his temperament is so good at times I think he is almost human. We often laugh that he is always posing for the camera with his ears pricked, eyes on the prize and I can often see the same characteristics in many of his progeny.It was because of Legacy turning out so well that we asked John Gilboy for first refusal on another colt and thats how we got his younger full brother Moylough Supremacy, so we have a lot to thank him for.We have had great days with Legacy and hopefully more to come in the future. The season is about to kick off and he has his first few mares covered and the first of this years crop of foals are starting to hit the ground so exciting times ahead.Horse Sport Ireland would like to join Kate in wishing all stallion owners and breeders the very best of luck for the breeding season ahead.The post Stallions in Focus Moylough Legacy appeared first on .

Horse Sport Ireland is delighted to name the 5-Star rated stallion Livello as Aprils Stallion of the Month.Livello was bred by Michael Tolle in Weitewelt, a small, rural village located in the Segeberg district of Schleswig-Holstein, Livello is by Limbus (HOLST), the 1.60m jumping stallion ridden by Bo Kristoffersen for Denmark. His dam, Zocka (HOLST) is by Ahorn Z (HANN) and is the dam of six foals, of which three had performance careers; Chablis T (HOLST) and Godot T (HOLST) who both competed at 1.30m. Her most famous progeny was Livello himself.He stands now in the heart of the Irish midlands in Belmont, Co. Offaly with Andrea Etter of Belmont House Stud.Livello age 27 at Belmont House StudLivello lives with his best friend Bear, who clearly runs the show. A true testament to his characterkind, patient, and gentle with his little pony companion.When I asked his long-time groom Christine from the Holsteiner Verband about Livellos temperament, she smiled and said hes the kind of stallion you could take with you for a pinta real friend.What really gave me confidence in using Livello on our own mares was seeing his former rider, Cameron Hanley, send his own top mares to be covered by him.It was with Cameron Hanley that S.I.E.C Livello, owned by the Sabanci International Equestrian Centre in Turkey, burst onto the international scene. They had their first notable international result when, as only an 8-year-old, the stallion finished second in the Grand Prix at the 2007 CSIO4* show in Copenhagen. This form was continued in 2008 when they recorded Top 10 finishes in the Grand Prix classes at the CSI3* shows in Giubiasco (SUI), Donaueschingen (GER), and Braunschweig (GER).In June 2009 the pairing of Hanley and S.I.E.C Livello made their debut as part of the Irish team in the Nations Cup that finished fifth. Their next outing was again as part of an Irish team in a Nations Cup when they travelled north to Falsterbo, Sweden where they were part of the winning team there. The duo improving on a 5-fault first round to jump an all-important clear in the second round.That result secured the pair their place in the Irish team at the 2009 European Championships in the shadow of Windsor Castle where they finished best of the Irish in individual fourth place, a single time fault in the final agonisingly keeping them away from a bronze medal.From there, the duo won the 1.55m Grand Prix at the CSI4* in Kiel, Germany, and had a Top 10 finish in a 1.50m Jump-Off class at the CSI5*-W in London Olympia in what was the second last show together for Hanley and S.I.E.C Livello.With Cagri Basel in the saddle, S.I.E.C Livello switched to represent Turkey internationally and in 2010, they were part of the team that represented Turkey at the World Equestrian Games in Kentucky, U.S.A.2012 saw him change nationality once more when he moved to the stable of Swedens Angelica Augustonsson, and he returned to Irish shores to feature on the Swedish team that competed in that years Aga Khan Nations Cup in the RDS Dublin Horse Show where their clear first round contributed to Sweden, France and Ireland being tied for the lead ahead of Round 2. Irish heroics sealed the home victory that day, as Sweden finished in 7th.Livello retired from international competition in 2013 at 14 years of age. His final Grand Prix being the CSIO5* Grand Prix of Falsterbo where Augustsson and Livello achieved a 13th place finish.Livellos first crop of foals were born in 2004, with his first Irish progeny being born in 2008. The performance of his progeny have earned Livello the 5* SJ PP merit with the Irish Sport Horse Studbook to go alongside his own 5* SJ OP merit.From that first crop of Irish-bred Livello foals came Lapuccino 2 (ISH) who was ridden at international level by Co. Mayos Michael G. Duffy. Lapuccino and Duffy have recorded wins at in the Nations Cup at the CSIO3* in Drammen (NOR) in 2020, and won the 1.60m Grand Prix at the CSI4* in Vejer De La Frontera (ESP) in 2021. He recorded Top 10 places in the 1.60m Sport Ireland Classic at the RDS Dublin Horse Show in 2018, as well as the 1.60m Grand Prix classes at the CSI5*GCT/GCL in Hamburg (GER) 2021, Amsterdam (NED) CSI5*-W 2020, Stockholm City (SWE) CSI5*GCT/GCL 2019, Geneva (SUI) CSI5*-RGS 2017, London Excel (GBR) CSI5*-W (2021), Rome, Circo Massimo (ITA) CSI5*GCT/GCL 2021 and La Coruna (ESP) CSI5*-W 2019.Lapuccino 2 (ISH) & Michaewl G. Duffy (IRL) 2021 CSI 5Star GCT RomeAnother of Livellos high performing progeny also includes FTS Killossery Konfusion (ISH), the 2025 Belgian National Champion. The dam of FTS Killossery Konfusion is Killossery Kruisette (ISH)[TIH] by Cruising (ISH)[TIH] who competed at international level in her own right for Capt. David OBrien of the Irish Equitation School. For Belgiums Jos Verlooy, FTS Killossery Konfusion has taken victory in 1.55m Grand Prix classes in the CSI4* and CSI3* shows in Thermal CA (USA) in 2025. The duo also won the 1.50m Grand Prix classes at Maastricht (NED) CSI4* 2023 and Leipzig (GER) CSI3*. He was also 2nd in the 1.60m Grand Prix at the CSI5*-W in Thermal, and 2nd in the CSI4* Liege (BEL) 1.55m Grand Prix in 2025. He was 2nd in a 1.55m Two Round Class in Stuttgart (GER) in 2023. They have also taken Top 10 placings in 1.60m, 1.55m and 1.50m classes at shows across North America and Europe including Monterrey (MEX) CSI5* MLSJ 2024, Rotterdam (NED) CSI5* LLN 2025, Lyon (FRA) CSI5*-W 2021, La Coruna (ESP) CSI5*-W 2021.Killossery Konfusion & Jos Verlooy CSI3 1m50In 2020, Livello had the distinction of siring two progeny that were on the same Nations Cup team for Ireland when they took the third-place spot on the podium at the CSIO3* Nations Cup in Vejer De La Frontera (ESP). Those two horses were Lapuccino 2 (ISH) with Michael G. Duffy and ESI Toulouse (ISH), ridden on the day Livellos very own Cameron Hanley!At stud in Ireland since 2020 and still going strong in 2026, Andrea tells us:Considering his ripe age of 27, its remarkable how modern Livello still feels. He has so much blood, combined with an uphill trot and canter, making him a stallion who consistently improves not only the three paces but also the rideability in his progeny.If we have a mare that is difficult to get in foal, our first choice is still Livellohis fertility is exceptional and consistently reliable.From a relatively small crop of Irish-born 5-year-old progeny, we are excited to have a stallion son of Livello called Mc Spencer B, a horse we think very highly of.The post Stallions in Focus Livello appeared first on .

The following stallions will parade in the main arena at the conclusion of the dressage:1. NPS Supernova, 2012 by Casali ex Marli by Carthago2. Timolin, 2011 by Totilas ex Samira by Sion3. KL Mac, 2011 by Larduc ex Gratina by Graf Quidam4. Catherston Oakley, 2014 by Opposition Bombshell ex Catherston Deodara by Dutch Gold6. Pencos Arctic King, 2018 by Chilli Morning ex Cornish Queen by Rock King7. Harrysson, 2021 by Springs Spirit ex Present Accord by Presenting8. Hallslake Nimrod, 2018 by Glenside Rising Star ex Broadriver Ballin by Vangellis9. Diamant de Heraldik, 2016 by Diamant de Semilly ex Bella Coola by Heraldik10. Langaller Star Maker, 2013 by Keady Star ex Loughbeg Marie by Im A Star11. Pennineview Silver Concorde, 2009 by Z. Concorde ex Silver Squirrel by Silver Wizard12. Comfort, 2013 by Christian ex Avienna by Last Liberty