SectionKey PointsWhat is Seaweed?Marine plant found in oceans, over 1,700 species, commonly fed type is brown seaweed (kelp).Nutritional ProfileIodine: Essential for thyroid function, growth, and metabolism.Calcium: Supports bone health and buffers stomach acids.Magnesium, Potassium, Sodium: Vital for nerve and muscle function.Trace Minerals: Zinc, copper, iron, crucial for healthy hooves.Benefits for Hoof HealthImproved hoof strength and quality.Enhanced coat and skin health.Support for digestive health.Antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.Feeding RecommendationsDosage: 10g per 100kg body weight per day.Introduction: Gradually introduce seaweed into diet.Monitoring: Regular health checks and consult a veterinarian.Considerations and PrecautionsMonitor iodine content to avoid thyroid issues.Avoid feeding to pregnant or lactating mares.ConclusionSeaweed supports hoof health with essential minerals and overall benefits. Use responsibly and consult a veterinarian.Maintaining the health of a horse's hooves is crucial for their overall well-being and performance. One natural supplement that has gained popularity for its potential benefits to hoof health is seaweed. This blog explores the advantages of incorporating seaweed into a horse's diet, supported by scientific evidence and expert opinions.What is Seaweed? Seaweed is a marine plant found in oceans worldwide, with over 1,700 different species categorized into green, brown, and red varieties. The type most commonly fed to horses is brown seaweed, also known as kelp, which is rich in essential minerals and nutrients. Learn more about seaweed.Nutritional Profile of SeaweedSeaweed is a nutritionally dense supplement, providing a wide range of vitamins, minerals, and amino acids. Key components include:Iodine: Essential for thyroid function, growth, and metabolism. Read moreCalcium: Supports bone health and can buffer stomach acids.Magnesium, Potassium, and Sodium: Vital for various bodily functions, including nerve and muscle function.Trace Minerals: Such as zinc, copper, and iron, which are crucial for maintaining healthy hooves.Benefits of Seaweed for Hoof Health 1. Improved Hoof Strength and Quality: Seaweed is rich in minerals like zinc and copper, which are essential for the formation of strong and healthy hoof horn. These minerals help prevent weak and cracked hooves, ensuring better hoof integrity.2. Enhanced Coat and Skin Health: The nutrients in seaweed, particularly iodine and sulphur, contribute to a shiny coat and healthy skin. This is beneficial for horses with skin conditions or dull coats.3. Support for Digestive Health: Seaweed contains prebiotics that promote a healthy gut microbiome, which can indirectly benefit hoof health by improving overall nutrient absorption and reducing digestive issues.4. Antioxidant and Anti-inflammatory Properties: Seaweed has been shown to have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects, which can help reduce inflammation and support overall health, including hoof health.How to Feed Seaweed to Horses When incorporating seaweed into a horse's diet, it is essential to follow recommended guidelines to avoid over-supplementation, particularly of iodine. Here are some general feeding recommendations:Dosage: Typically, 10g per 100kg of body weight per day is recommended. For example, a 500kg horse would require 50g of seaweed daily.Introduction: Introduce seaweed gradually into the diet to allow the horse to adjust.Monitoring: Regularly monitor the horse's health and consult with a veterinarian to ensure the supplement is providing the desired benefits without causing any adverse effects.Considerations and Precautions While seaweed offers numerous benefits, it is crucial to consider the following:Iodine Content: Excessive iodine intake can lead to thyroid issues. Ensure the seaweed product specifies its iodine content and calculate the appropriate dosage. Read more.Pregnant and Lactating Mares: Avoid feeding seaweed to pregnant or lactating mares, as excess iodine can accumulate in the placenta and milk, potentially harming the foal.Conclusion Seaweed is a valuable supplement for promoting hoof health in horses, thanks to its rich nutritional profile and various health benefits. By providing essential minerals and supporting overall health, seaweed can help maintain strong, healthy hooves. However, it is essential to use it responsibly and consult with a veterinarian to ensure it meets the specific needs of your horse.By incorporating seaweed into your horse's diet, you can take a natural and effective approach to supporting their hoof health and overall well-being.To find the best seaweed supplements for your horse, visit Just Horse Riders. Seaweed and Horse Hoof Health - FAQsFrequently Asked QuestionsIs seaweed good for horse hooves?Yes, seaweed is beneficial for horse hooves. It is rich in essential minerals such as zinc and copper, which are crucial for the formation of strong and healthy hoof horn. Seaweed helps prevent weak and cracked hooves, ensuring better hoof integrity.How much seaweed should I feed my horse?Typically, you should feed your horse 10g of seaweed per 100kg of body weight per day. For example, a 500kg horse would require 50g of seaweed daily. It's important to introduce seaweed gradually into the diet and monitor your horse's health regularly.What does seaweed meal do for horses?Seaweed meal provides a wide range of vitamins, minerals, and amino acids that support overall health. It improves hoof strength and quality, enhances coat and skin health, supports digestive health through prebiotics, and offers antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.Is seaweed good for horses with ulcers?Yes, seaweed can be beneficial for horses with ulcers. It contains calcium, which helps buffer stomach acids and supports a healthy digestive system. The prebiotics in seaweed also promote a healthy gut microbiome, which can aid in managing ulcers.

The Longines Global Champions Tour heads to Paris June 21-23, 2024 for the eighth stage of the season.

The grounds of Barbury Castle is set for another action-packed weekend of eventing next month (11-14 July), as riders compete to win two of the sports most sought after qualification tickets

Welcome to Horse Illustrateds weekly installment of the Right Horse Adoptable Horse of the Week, offered in partnership with the ASPCAs Right Horse program. This weeks adoptable horse is What a Night! Check back weekly for a new featured horse so you can find your Right Horse.Photo courtesy Second StrideAdoptable Horse: What a Night, a 4-year-old 16.3hh Thoroughbred geldingOrganization: Second Stride, Prospect, Ky.Get to Know Adoptable Horse What a NightWhat a Night is a 4-year old Thoroughbred gelding bred in Louisiana, by Dialed In (Mineshaft) and out of Lead Us to The Bar (by Dublin). Night is eligible for the Retired Racehorse Projects Thoroughbred Makeover Competition.Night last worked on March 26, 2023, and never raced. He is healed from a right high suspensory irritation and he is sound under saddle. He does have fragments in the sesamoid that can not be removed, so he should not jump above 26. But he is currently sound and working well under saddle.Night is an intelligent and athletic gelding with a great personality. He bonds quickly with his handlers and riders and is very polite during grooming, tacking up, wound dressing, wrapping, etc. Under saddle, Night is fabulous powerful and cooperative, with good balance and a natural understanding of leg and seat aids. Night would be a wonderful dressage or low level eventing partner. This is a smart horse who will do best with a purposeful rider of at least intermediate level.Night is quiet in his stall and while out. He walks nicely on a lead, is respectful of his handlers, and is good for the vet and farrier. He doesnt seem to have any vices.Contact Second Stride today about ASPCA Right Horse Adoptable Horse of the Week, What a Night!Photo courtesy Second StrideCould this weeks adoptable horse be the Right Horse you have been waiting for? Click here for more information about What a Night, the ASPCA Right Horse Adoptable Horse of the Week.ASPCA Right HorseASPCA Right Horse is the online adoption platform of The Right Horse Initiative, a collection of equine industry and welfare professionals and advocates working together to improve the lives of horses in transition. A program of the ASPCA, their goal is to massively increase horse adoption in the United States. To find more adoptable horses and foster horses, visit www.myrighthorse.org. To learn more about The Right Horse, a program of the ASPCA, visit www.aspcarighthorse.org.The post ASPCA Right Horse Adoptable Horse of the Week: What a Night appeared first on Horse Illustrated Magazine.

There aremultiplefly rugs for horses on the market,each claiming to provide relief fromflies and midges in the summer. Some equines become very agitated and distressed when they are exposed to biting insects they can even cause allergic reactions. To find out which ones do a good job of protecting horses, Your Horses testing team used a selection of fly rugs for over three months during the summer. Find out how they got on below.A lightweight fly rug is designed to create a protective barrier to stop flies biting a horse. It can help to keep them more relaxed and prevent nasty bumps, rashes or other skin irritations. Some rugs also offer UV protection, while others are showerproof. Youll be looking for a rug rug that provides full body protection, and many enhance their body coverage with options like a neck cover, belly flap and tail flap.The Your Horse test: fly rugs for horsesEach of the following fly rugs for horses have been assessed by our testing team for fit, effectiveness and value for money.Bucas Buzz Off Zebra Fly RugIs it a good fit?This fly rug is true to size and a good fit. I tested a 6ft 3in version and it fitted by two Thoroughbreds, who are 15.3hh and 16.2hh, perfectly. It is a very deep fly rug, which is great for coverage and protection from flies, it just means it finishes further down the legs on my slightly smaller horse. From a distance, he really did look like a small zebra! I like that the belly flap is completely removable, which makes it easier for hanging out to dry. There ares shoulder darts for a comfortable fit around the chest I didnt notice any rubbing on my horses coat and the rug stays in place nicely. The leg straps give extra security too, although I took them off one horse who isnt keen on them.How effective is it?I can 100% say that this has reduced the number of flies bothering my horses. I usually stable during the day in the summer so that my horses are in out of the flies, but I have been able to leave them out for later mornings and sometimes most of the day while wearing this rug. Because it covers so much of their body, it is effective against midges in the evening too. There is interesting research behind this zebra print and how well it repels flies, involving scientists painting wooden pallets and placing them in a fly-infested field. (Read the research)This fly rug has a useful elasticated browband to help prevent the neck slipping down. However, I do find that the browband falls behind the ears easily when the horse is grazing, or when they scratch. When this happens, the neck cover slips back a couple of inches behind the ears when the horse is walking around or has their head up. This could be easily combatted by using it with a matching fly mask Ive also attached it to a fly fringe.Value for money?I am very price driven when it comes to rugs. Im not keen on spending big bucks on something that is going to be worn outside and get very dirty, possibly even ripped. This is one of the top-end fly rugs, but I would absolutely spend the money as it is good value for such an effective rug. In fact, Ive already put my money where my mouth is and bought a second version of this rug, so now I have two happy zebras living in my field. This will be their third summer wearing these fly rugs. The white patches have faded a lot, but otherwise its still in great condition and doing a good jobSizes: 3ft 6in-7ft 2inRRP 107 (small size); 124 (6ft+) (US$139)Buying in the UK? Purchase hereBuying in the USA? Purchase hereAniMac All Rounder fly rugIs it a good fit?This fly rug fits my horses well around the chest, although for a particularly chunky horse, you might wish to err on the side of caution and size up. I was surprised to see that there was no surcingle; instead, the rug is secured by leg straps. I was a bit concerned that the rug might not stand up to vigorous rolling, but I neednt have worried it stayed put surprisingly well, with no slippage at all.How effective is it?One of my horses is a grey, so I was delighted to see that this fly rug did an excellent job at keeping the worst of the mud off in very wet weather, although it isnt fully waterproof. Equally, both of my horses coped well in the heat when wearing this fly rug. They werent too sweaty underneath the rug, and the mesh panel on the body and neck helped to catch the breeze and keep them cool. No flies managed to find their way underneath, even on days when they were particularly bad.Value for money?I think this rug represents very good value for money. Ive spent similar on rugs that were not nearly so effective. It went down well on the yard, too. In fact, a number of other liveries mentioned that they would look into getting one for their own horses.Colours: green, blue or redRRP 45 (US$60)Buying in the UK? Purchase hereBuying in the USA? Purchase hereREAD OUR TESTERS FULL REVIEWSwish Equestrian Fly Turnout Combination RugIs it a good fit?This is a great-fitting fly rug that offers good coverage and depth for my horses size. All fastenings are quick and easy to use with plenty of adjustment. The neck cover is removable and its also a good length and depth to give good coverage of the neck. The tail flap is very generous in size too.How effective is it?The waterproof panel on the back makes this fly rug a little more rigid compared to others I have used. The mesh lower section allows airflow to help keep the horse cool, but I still found that it is a little warm on sunny days. This is an amazing rug fly rug for cloudy days and wearing overnight. The turnout panel is showerproof and tough. The mesh at the front of has a few snags after everyday wear but it hasnt ripped.Value for money?I think this is a goodvalue fly rug as it is a useful addition formy horses wardrobe. I put it on my horse knowing they will be comfortable and suitably protected against flies.Sizes: 4ft 3in-7ft 6inColour options: orange, mulberry,green, red, navy, peppermint, pinkRRP 95.99 (US$125)Buying in the UK? Purchase hereBuying in the USA? Purchase hereBucas Buzz-Off X Fly RugIs it a good fit?This is a well-fitting fly rug thats a good length for my horse. I also find it to be lovely and deep to give my horse really good all-round coverage and protection from bugs. The neck cover is also a good length, and is held in place by a head piece so that it doesnt slip back, which I really like. The fastenings on this fly rug are secure and the surcingles offer a good amount of adjustment to give a really snug fit. It also makes it easy to use on different horses.How effective is it?This rug protects against sun bleaching of the horses coat as well as providing cover for all parts of their body to protect them from flies. The extra deep sides means the rug wraps around the horses body; the deep material and three surcingles mean the belly is covered, which I think is really important. The lightweight mesh fabric kept my horse comfortable and sweat-free, even on hot days.Value for money?This fly rug is on the pricey side, but it offers great coverage for horses and is good quality, so youre buying something that does a good job.Sizes: 5ft 6in-7ft. Colour: Blue/silverRRP 130 (US$135)Buying in the UK? Purchase hereBuying in the USA? Purchase hereWeatherbeeta Comfitec Essential Mesh II Combo NeckIs it a good fit?This is a well-fitting fly rug thats a good depth at the shoulder and has a well-fitting neck cover that stays in place.How effective is it?Lovely soft-mesh material of this rug offers some UV protection and does a great job of keeping flies off my horse. It doesnt have a belly flap, but it is cut deep enough that the rug wraps under the belly nicely. Its lightweight and my horse doesnt get hot in it, even on sunny days. The touch-tape at the chest under the two buckles doesnt stay done up for very long, which leaves an annoying gap. This fly rug has a few minor snags after regular use, none of which have turned into rips, so it seems to be strong material.Value for money?I recommend this fly rug. It does the job at a great price. If youve got multiple horses to buy for, this fly rug is a great option.Sizes: 4ft-7ft 3inColours: seahorse print (pictured), umbrella print, beige/turquoise/orange, white/maroon/greyRRP from 69.99 (US$104.95)Buying in the UK? Purchase hereBuying in the USA? Purchase hereFelix Buher Fly Rug All Weather with Soft Shell InsertIs it a good fit?This fly rug is a great fit on my Thoroughbred, but was a little snug on my Warmblood, who is a bigger build. The deep cut covers the tops of the legs and wraps around the belly for decent coverage and protection from flies. This rug doesnt slip, but the neck cover does fall down the neck when the head is up. Theres a loop to attach to a headcollar if desired, but I dont turn out with headcollars on. There was a small rub on my horses chest where the velcro peels back after regular use.How effective is it?The best thing about this rug is that it is multi-purpose, with removable neck and rain covers that protect against flies, sun and rain. I have washed it several times during this test and it is still in great condition. Theres nothing worse than a soggy fly rug, so this one solves that problem.Value for money?At first glance this feels like a pricy fly rug, but when you consider that its two rugs in one, I like it and I would recommend it to other people.Sizes: 5ft 6in-7ft.Colour: silver onlyRRP 129Buying in the UK? Purchase hereVentomasta Combo Fly Rug, from Harry HallIs it a good fit?I would say that this fly rug is a little generous size-wise, but it fits well across my horses chest and offers good neck coverage, and its deep down the sides. It stays securely in place and doesnt rub. There isnt a belly flap, but the sides are long enough to provide good belly coverage and there is a generous tail flap.How effective is it?The lightweight material of this fly rug keeps the horse cool while also offering good protection from flies and biting insects. There are a few snags in the material at the front where my horse has lent on the fence but they havent turned into rips. My horse has been wearing it every day and it seems to be lasting well.Value for money?I think this is a very good value fly rug for horses and I would recommend it to others.Sizes: 5ft 3in-7ft 6in.Colour: silverRRP 49.95 (member savings available)Buying in the UK? Purchase hereStormx Original Zebra Print Fly RugIs it a good fit?This fly rug is a good fit lengthwise and seems to be true to size. However, it did slip slightly to one side when my horse was wearing it. The depth of the rug offers good protection from the rugs but the neck cover slips down towards the wither exposing the neck. It offers good coverage with lovely lightweight fabric. It came with a rather inadequate fillet string which wouldnt stay done up, so I swapped it for a different one off an old rug.How effective is it?The lightweight fabric keeps the horse cool and the zebra print does a great job of keeping the flies off. There is research behind this sort of fly rug pattern and it has been shown to confuse flies, which is why fewer are said to land on them. Unfortunately, though, due to the slipping, and a fillet string that doesnt stay done up, it ripped quite easily.Value for money?This is a fair price for an effective fly rug, but it is easily damaged, which is disappointing.Sizes: 4ft-7ft. Colour: zebra printRRP 44.99 (US$72.45)Buying in the UK? Purchase hereBuying in the USA? Purchase hereMark Todd Showerproof Fly Combo RugIs it a good fit?This fly rug is true to size as well as being a good length and depth all over for good coverage of my horses body. All the fastenings are easy to use and strong, keeping the rug securely in place. Theres a lining inside this rug which doesnt slide easily over the horses coat, but once on this rug doesnt move or slip.How effective is it?The upper section of this fly rug is waterproof and robust; there is no sign of any rips in the rug and all fastenings give you plenty of adjustment. I do find the rug is too hot on sunny days the lining and waterproof material seems to hold too much heat. However, it does do a good job of protecting my horse from flies. She was relaxed and happy when wearing it.Value for money?I think this is a good value rug thats great for those rainy, cooler summer days.Sizes: 5ft 6in-7ft.Colour: grey/silverRRP 79.99Buying in the UK? Purchase hereEquilibrium Products Field Relief Fly RugIs it a good fit?A perfect fitting fly rug the neck cover is generous in length and has a headpiece that fits over the ears to help hold it in place. It is deep in the body providing good coverage, as do the belly flaps, and the long tail flap provides further protection. It doesnt slip and theres plenty of adjustment on the fastenings.How effective is it?This fly rug is lightweight and keeps my horse cool while also keeping flies at bay. It also provides UV protection. The material is light and airy. My horse has been out in a few showers in this rug and it has dried quickly. It washes well.Value for money?I love this rug and would definitely recommend it to my friends.Colour: yellow.Sizes: 5ft 6in-7ftRRP 95 (US$100)Buying in the UK? PurchasehereBuying in the USA? Purchase hereSince our test, Equilibrium has launched a new version of this rug in a unique hexagonal patternThings to consider before buyingMaterialFly rugs for horses can be made from either soft or hard fabric. Soft fly rugs usually comprise a cotton or a polyester woven mesh. They are lightweight and mould well to the horses body shape. The softer material is less likely to rub, but it may not be as robust, meaning that it could rip more easily.The hard material is a stiffer PVC-coated fabric which makes it much tougher, but this type of fabric may not fit as closely to a horses skin. Some, however, do mould to the horses body shape over time. As a rule, the finer the mesh the better as this will help to prevent midge bites, too.Air flow & UV protectionThe last thing you want is to take off your horses fly rug and find theyre sweating underneath it. Most fly rugs for horses are breathable and allow good air flow. Many are made from light-coloured materials that reflect the suns rays, and this helps to keep the horse cool, especially if they have a dark coat. Sunshine bleaches a horses coat, but there are fly rugs on the market that offer varying levels of UV protection to help protect the coat. Some fly rugs are made from materials that reflects the suns rays.Extra protectionThe fabric of some fly rugs is treated with an insect repellent to give even greater protection for horses. This will be stated in the product description, so read it before you buy. Some fly rugs will also keep a horse dry in the rain. The top half of these rugs is made from a waterproof material, while the lower portion is constructed from a fine mesh.There are a number of different types of rugs available that deal with specific issues too. Sweet itch rugs, for example, are especially designed to keep midges away from as much of the horses body as possible. So if you have particularly requirements that you need from a rug, thats a good thing.Patterns and coloursResearch shows that certain colours and patterns repel insects more than others. Zebra print, for example, is a fly deterrent, while using a combination of bright colours can also help to keep pests at arms length.Related contentBest fly sprays for horses: 14 repellents tested by riders and ownersHow to manage sweet itch in horsesFly masks for horses: our pick of the marketHow to cool down a hot horse quicklyThe post Tried and tested: best fly rugs for horses appeared first on Your Horse.

Will Coleman and Off the Record. Photo by Tilly Berendt.Team USA heads to Stable Views Summer H.T. (Aiken, SC) this weekend, where they will undertake a final Mandatory Outing set out by US Equestrian, competing in an Advanced division to put the finishing touches on their preparations for Paris before they begin their journey overseas next month.Team members Will Coleman (Off the Record + direct reserve Diabolo), Boyd Martin (Fedarman B + direct reserve Commando 3) and Caroline Pamukcu (HSH Blake), along with traveling reserve Liz Halliday (Cooley Nutcracker) will all be present competing, as well as the alternate list consisting of James Alliston (Karma), Jennie Brannigan (FE Lifestyle), and Liz Halliday (Miks Master C and Shanroe Cooley). Will Faudree had earlier withdrawn himself from the alternate list with Mamas Magic Way, opting instead to focus on preparing for Burghley later this summer.Boyd Martin and Fedarman B. Photo by Shannon Brinkman Photography.This competition will primarily be used as a fine-tuning fitness run for these pairs, allowing them to get some time competing together as a team before Paris, which is key to success in any sport. An advantage of naming a team earlier (the U.S. was the first nation to confirm its definite team; to date we have only Ireland and Japan confirmed with most other nations still narrowing down a shortlist) is just that: to allow for more time to prepare, foster team camaraderie, and of course to also have flexibility in timing should a pair have an issue or an injury and need to sub in an alternate. Caroline Pamukcu and HSH Blake. Photo by Sally Spickard.The Advanced pairs will compete in dressage and show jumping on Friday, June 21, followed by cross country on Saturday, June 22. There is no live stream for this competition, but Taleen Hanna will be our trusty boots on the ground to bring us daily reports as well as a final recap of the teams travel plans, etc. at the end of the weekend or on Monday. For those of you attending, youll also want to check out some opportunities to send the team off properly, as the organizing crew at Stable View has really gone all out to make it a real party. On Saturday, VIP Luncheon ticket holders will receive access to the Pavilion and upstairs decks with a 360-degree view of the property, lunch catered by Blue Collard, beer + wine, and Stable View swag from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. You can pick up a VIP ticket by clicking here. Liz Halliday and Cooley Nutcracker. Photo by Sally Spickard.Stay tuned for more from Stable View, coming your way soon!Stable View Summer H.T. (Aiken, SC) [Website] [Entries] [Ride Times] [Volunteer] View more of ENs coverage of the Paris Olympics here. We are pleased to bring you our Olympic coverage with support from Kentucky Performance Products.

Japans Kazuma Tomoto and Vinci de la Vigne at the Tokyo Olympics, where they finished fourth. Photo by Sally Spickard.The last Olympic hosts, Japan, are the latest nation to reveal their line-up for next months Paris Olympics and despite not initially earning a team slot, they now field a formidable front as they head into the Games.The selected horses and riders are as follows:Kazuma Tomoto and Vinci de la Vigne JRA fifteen-year-old Selle Franais gelding (Esterel des Bois SF x Korrigane de Vigne SF, by Duc du Hutrel) owned by the Japanese Equestrian Federation and groomed by Jackie PottsRyuzo Kitajima and Cekatinka JRA seventeen-year-old KWPN mare (King Kolibri x Kantinka, by Julio Mariner XX) owned by the Japanese Equestrian Federation and groomed by Matt Glenworth.Direct reserve Be My Daisy, owned by Riding Club Crane Co LtdYoshiaki Oiwa and MGH Grafton Street sixteen-year-old Irish Sport Horse gelding (by OBOS Quality 004 out of an unrecorded dam) owned by the rider and groomed by Emily GibsonTravelling reserve: Toshiyuki Tanaka and Jefferson JRA thirteen-year-old Holsteiner gelding (by Jaquino out of an unrecorded dam) owned by the Japanese Equestrian Federation and groomed by Rowan LairdThe team is named after an excellent week at Japans final selection trial at Bramham CCI4*-S, which saw Kazu and Vince, who were individually fourth at Tokyo, take third place in the stacked class. Ryuzo finished in the top ten too, though on new ride Be My Daisy, who has been named as his direct reserve, Yoshi and new ride MGH Grafton Street finished twelfth, and travelling reserves Toshi and Jefferson finished fourteenth.All the named riders are paired up with horses with storied careers: before Kazu took the reins on Vince in 2019, with great subsequent success, the now-15-year-old was produced by Frances Astier Nicolas, who rode him to seventh place at the 2018 World Championships. Ryuzo Kitajimas Cekatinka JRA was initially produced by Ros Canter and latterly Tim Price, and was bought for Ryuzo with the Tokyo Olympics in mind. Though Cekatinka ended up sitting out that Games entirely, and Ryuzo was named as travelling reserve with Feroza Nieuwmoed, they did end up representing their nation at the 2022 World Championships, where they delivered a smart clear round but bowed out at the final horse inspection.Yoshiaki Oiwa and MGH Grafton Street. Photo by Tilly Berendt.There are two relatively new partnerships on this list: Yoshi Oiwa teamed up with Pippa Funnells 2019 Burghley winner MGH Grafton Street just this year, and is keeping the quirky gelding at Pippas Surrey base so that she can oversee theirprogression. In his four FEI starts with the sixteen-year-old, Yoshi has enjoyed competitive, quick, clear finishes, including a placing in Ballindenisks CCI4*-L in April. Likewise, travelling reserve Toshi took over Jefferson JRA, who was formerly a Chris Burton ride but more recently competed by Britains Bubby Upton, in the middle of last year, and has placed in four of his eight FEI starts with the thirteen-year-old.Japan joins Ireland and the USA in having announced their final line-up for Paris, while Germany have effectively announced their three riders, pending CHIO Aachen results.View more of ENs coverage of the Paris Olympics here.

Type of Hoof CrackDescriptionCausesSolutionsQuarter CracksVertical cracks originating at the coronary band, extending down the hoof wall's quarter.Trauma, conformation issuesProfessional farrier care, environmental managementGrass CracksVertical cracks starting at the ground surface, extending upward along the hoof wall.Environmental factors, poor hoof careProper hoof maintenance, balanced dietHorizontal CracksCracks running parallel to the coronary band, weakening the hoof structure.Trauma, disruptions in hoof wall growthEnvironmental management, regular monitoringSand CracksVertical cracks from the coronary band downward, often requiring intensive treatment.Injuries, disruptions in hoof wall growthProfessional farrier intervention, hoof protectionCauses of Hoof CracksTrauma or Injury: Direct trauma from overreaching, kicking, or sharp objects.Imbalances and Conformation Issues: Improper hoof balance, poor trimming/shoeing, conformational defects.Environmental Factors: Changes in moisture levels, prolonged exposure to wet or dry conditions.Nutritional Deficiencies: Lack of biotin, zinc, copper, and amino acids.Genetics: Inherited predisposition to weaker or thinner hoof walls.Age and Wear: Increased propensity for cracks due to natural wear and tear over time.Solutions and Prevention StrategiesRegular Farrier Care: Consistent hoof trimming and shoeing schedule.Environmental Management: Suitable environment, regulated moisture levels, proper drainage.Nutritional Support: Balanced diet rich in essential nutrients, supplementation if necessary.Hoof Supplements and Treatments: Strengthening and moisturizing the hoof wall with biotin, methionine, and essential oils.Prompt Treatment: Early intervention by a farrier or veterinarian, stabilizing cracks, and addressing underlying issues.Hoof Protection: Specialized shoeing techniques or hoof boots for severe or recurring cracks.Horse Hoof Cracks: Causes and SolutionsHoof cracks in horses can range from minor cosmetic blemishes to serious issues that cause lameness and pain. Understanding the causes and appropriate solutions is crucial for maintaining your horse's hoof health and overall well-being. In this comprehensive guide, we'll explore the various types of hoof cracks, their underlying causes, and effective strategies for prevention and treatment.Types of Hoof CracksHoof cracks can occur in different patterns and locations, each with its own set of causes and implications. Here are some common types of hoof cracks:Quarter CracksQuarter cracks are vertical cracks that originate at the coronary band (the junction between the hoof wall and the skin) and extend downward along the hoof wall's quarter (the side portion of the hoof). Quarter cracks are often painful and can cause lameness if left untreated. They are often a result of trauma or conformational issues.Grass CracksGrass cracks, also known as toe cracks, start at the ground surface and extend upward along the hoof wall. They are typically less severe than quarter cracks but can still compromise the hoof's integrity. Grass cracks are usually caused by environmental factors and poor hoof care.Horizontal CracksThese cracks run parallel to the coronary band and can occur due to trauma or disruptions in the hoof wall's growth. While generally less concerning than vertical cracks, they can still weaken the hoof structure. Horizontal cracks can be indicative of a significant health issue or injury.Sand CracksSand cracks are vertical cracks that originate at the coronary band and extend downward, often caused by injuries or disruptions in the hoof wall's growth. Sand cracks can be particularly problematic and may require more intensive treatment. They often necessitate the expertise of a professional farrier.Causes of Hoof CracksTrauma or InjuryDirect trauma to the hoof wall or coronary band, such as from overreaching, kicking, or stepping on sharp objects, can disrupt the hoof's growth and lead to cracks. Preventing such injuries involves regular monitoring and safe environments.Imbalances and Conformation IssuesImproper hoof balance, poor trimming or shoeing, and conformational defects like club feet or long toe-low heel can put excessive strain on certain areas of the hoof, increasing the risk of cracks. Addressing these issues requires the expertise of a skilled farrier.Environmental FactorsExtreme changes in moisture levels, such as transitioning from wet to dry conditions or vice versa, can cause the hoof wall to contract or expand, leading to cracks. Prolonged exposure to wet or dry conditions can also weaken the hoof structure. It's essential to manage your horse's environment to maintain optimal hoof conditions.Nutritional DeficienciesA lack of essential nutrients like biotin, zinc, copper, and amino acids can compromise the quality and strength of the hoof wall, making it more susceptible to cracking. A balanced diet is critical for maintaining hoof health.GeneticsSome horses may have an inherited predisposition to weaker or thinner hoof walls, increasing their vulnerability to cracks. Genetic factors should be considered when evaluating hoof health, and breeding decisions should take hoof quality into account.Age and WearAs horses age, their hooves may become more prone to cracking due to natural wear and tear, as well as potential changes in hoof quality. Regular care and monitoring can help mitigate these issues and maintain hoof integrity.Solutions and Prevention StrategiesRegular Farrier CareMaintaining a consistent schedule for hoof trimming and shoeing is essential for ensuring proper hoof balance and preventing excessive strain on specific areas. Work closely with a qualified farrier to address any imbalances or conformation issues. Explore our hoof supplements for additional support.Environmental ManagementProvide a suitable environment for your horse, avoiding prolonged exposure to wet or dry conditions. Consider using bedding materials that help regulate moisture levels, and ensure proper drainage in turnout areas. These measures are critical for hoof health.Nutritional SupportEnsure your horse receives a balanced diet rich in essential nutrients like biotin, zinc, copper, and amino acids. Consult with an equine nutritionist or veterinarian to determine if supplementation is necessary based on your horse's individual needs. Consider our range of hoof care products.Hoof Supplements and TreatmentsVarious hoof supplements and topical treatments can help strengthen and moisturize the hoof wall, reducing the risk of cracks. Products containing ingredients like biotin, methionine, and essential oils can be beneficial when used as directed. Check out our hoof support supplements for more information.Prompt TreatmentIf a crack develops, seek professional assistance from a farrier or veterinarian promptly. Early intervention can prevent further damage and facilitate proper healing. Treatment may involve stabilizing the crack, trimming or shoeing adjustments, and addressing any underlying issues. For more insights, visit our hoof care collection.Hoof ProtectionIn cases of severe or recurring cracks, your farrier may recommend specialized shoeing techniques or hoof boots to provide additional support and protection during the healing process. This is crucial for maintaining hoof health and functionality.ConclusionBy understanding the causes of hoof cracks and implementing preventive measures, you can help maintain your horse's hoof health and minimize the risk of lameness and discomfort. Regular monitoring, prompt treatment, and collaboration with equine professionals are key to ensuring your horse's hooves remain strong and crack-free.For more information on hoof care products and supplements, visit our supplement collection. Ensuring your horse's hoof health is a step towards their overall well-being and performance.Remember, a happy horse is a healthy horse. Regular care and attention to their hooves will not only prevent cracks but also enhance their overall quality of life. Happy riding!Asked by YouHow do I stop my horse's hooves from cracking?To stop your horse's hooves from cracking, ensure regular farrier care, provide a balanced diet rich in essential nutrients, maintain an optimal environment with proper moisture levels, and use hoof supplements and treatments to strengthen and moisturize the hoof wall.When should I be concerned about a hoof crack?You should be concerned about a hoof crack if it is deep, causing lameness, or not improving with regular care. It's important to consult a veterinarian or farrier if you notice significant cracks or if your horse is in discomfort.What is the best thing for dry cracked hooves?The best thing for dry cracked hooves is to use hoof moisturizers and supplements that contain biotin, methionine, and essential oils. Ensuring your horse has a balanced diet and a well-managed environment with regulated moisture levels is also crucial.How long does it take for a hoof crack to heal?The healing time for a hoof crack can vary depending on the severity of the crack and the care provided. Minor cracks may heal within a few weeks, while more severe cracks can take several months. Consistent care and treatment are key to promoting healing. Horse Hoof Cracks: FAQ Structured Data

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