Many equestrians have a canine companion as well as their horses, and their faithful pets accompany them to the yard and in the lorry when travelling to events. However, if you drive with your dog in the car or horsebox, did you know you are liable to incurring a hefty fine if they are not secured with a harness?Under Rule 57 of The Highway Code, drivers should make sure dogs are suitably restrained in a vehicle so they cannot distract the driver or injure themselves, or others, if the car stops suddenly. Suggested restraints include a seat belt harness, pet carrier, dog cage or dog guard.Letting pets travel loose could lead to penalties, including fines of up to 5,000 and penalty points, as well as serious safety issues.Most dog owners would never deliberately put their pet at risk, but travelling with a dog loose in the car is one of those everyday habits that can feel harmless until something goes wrong, said Darren Beale, CEO of dog food company Years.A sudden brake, a sharp turn, an unexpected noise or another dog outside the window can be enough to make a loose dog move suddenly. That can distract the driver, injure the dog, or put passengers at risk too.According to Darren, the biggest mistake is assuming a calm dog does not need to be restrained.A dog sitting loose on the back seat, standing in the footwell, sitting on a passengers lap, climbing between seats or leaning out of the window can all create safety issues.A dog does not need to be badly behaved to become a distraction, he continued. Even a well-trained dog can lose balance, become startled, try to move towards the driver, or be thrown forward if the car stops suddenly.The restraint is not a punishment. It is there to protect the dog in exactly the same way a seat belt protects a person.Darren recommends choosing a restraint based on the dogs size, temperament and the type of vehicle. Safe options include a crash-tested dog harness and seat belt attachment, a secure crate or carrier, or a dog guard or boot barrier.The right option depends on the dog. Some dogs feel calmer in a crate because it gives them a clear, predictable space, he added. Others are happier in a well-fitted harness on the back seat. What matters is that the dog is secure, comfortable and unable to interfere with the driver.Darren warned owners to avoid letting a dog sit on the drivers lap, allowing them to move freely between seats, letting a dog lean out of an open window and travelling with a dog loose in the front passenger seat. He also urged owners not to use a collar attachment instead of a harness, leaving leads or straps loose enough to tangle, feeding a large meal just before travel and assuming short journeys do not need restraint.Lead image by ShutterstockRelated contentJason Webbs tips for what to do if you meet a loose dog out hackingHeading out in the horsebox? Read this before you travelTravel boots for horses tried and tested for fit, value and level of leg protectionOn the move: Buyers guide to horseboxes and trailersThe post Does your dog travel with you to the yard or events? Safety warning issued for pet owners appeared first on Your Horse.

Commercial licensing is failing to protect the welfare of working donkeys across the UK, new research from The Donkey Sanctuary has revealed. The research, to be published in 30 May edition of Veterinary Record, also highlights a shift in the roles donkeys perform. While traditionally associated with seaside rides, donkeys are increasingly used in a wide range of commercial settings from supporting human wellbeing, appearing in films and media, and as attractions in farm parks or petting zoos. These evolving roles bring new and often overlooked welfare challenges and the charity is concerned about how effectively current regulatory systems safeguard animals.The research assessed the welfare of donkeys who had been relinquished into The Donkey Sanctuarys care from licensed commercial operators and those whose premises had been attended by donkey welfare advisers. The sample included donkeys given up either voluntarily or following intervention by authorities, sometimes with support from organisations such as the RSPCA.Of the 179 donkeys assessed, almost all were suffering from poor health, including back pain, lameness and welfare issues relating to low weight as well as inadequate dental or hoof care. Almost three-quarters of these animals had been working as beach donkeys.A lack of understandingResponsibility for issuing licences lies with local authorities, which means there is a requirement for licensing officers to have a good understanding of the welfare needs of donkeys, or rely on vets for welfare assessments and decision-making.Dr Tamlin Watson, Senior Researcher at The Donkey Sanctuary and lead author of the study, emphasised that the challenges facing the system are not necessarily due to negligence, but rather to limited resources and expertise.Licensing authorities are expected to oversee an incredibly diverse range of premises from gambling venues to theme parks and zoos, often without the specialist knowledge or resources required to properly assess animal welfare in a diverse number of species, she said.We were recently involved in a continuing professional development (CPD) online event for farm parks at which 79 per cent of attendees were local authority officers. The success of that event suggests there is an appetite for specialist training and a genuine desire to ensure the welfare of animals under licence. Further events are planned for 2027.Dr Watson also highlighted the lack of consistent veterinary involvement in the licensing process.Greater access to veterinary expertise is essential to ensure welfare assessments are robust and evidence based, she said However, our research suggests that vets too sometimes need a better understanding of donkey welfare needs.The study concludes that licensing alone does not guarantee positive welfare for donkeys, even in cases where veterinary oversight is a formal requirement. It also points to the need for a more informed and coordinated approach to safeguarding their welfare in an evolving commercial landscape.As the summer approaches, The Donkey Sanctuary is urging people visiting farm parks or seaside resorts where donkey rides are offered to consider the welfare of the animals involved before paying for services. Information about what to look for is on The Donkey sanctuary website and any concerns should be reported to the local authority.Lead image by The Donkey Sanctuary Related contentEscapee donkeys rehomed by donkey charity6 fascinating facts about donkeys as we celebrate World Donkey DayStorm survivors: donkeys rescued from flooded fieldThe post Our donkeys are suffering: Concerns raised for the UKs working equines as summer approaches appeared first on Your Horse.

Tributes have been paid to 24-year-old Lance Bombardier Ciara Sullivan of The Kings Troop, Royal Horse Artillery, who has died following a tragic incident at Royal Windsor Horse Show on Friday (15 May).Lance Bombardier (LBdr) Sullivan joined the Army in November 2020 attending the Army Training Centre in Pirbright before joining The Kings Troop Royal Horse Artillery in June 2021.She had been involved in Ceremonial Operations since joining The Troop, taking part in multiple Royal Gun Salutes in Hyde Park and Green Park. She deployed on both Op BRIDGE, the state funeral of Her Majesty the Queen in 2022, and Op GOLDEN ORB for the Coronation of Their Majesties The King & Queen in 2023. LBdr Ciara Sullivan, Sully to her friends, was to all who had the privilege of serving alongside her, a bright light in any room she entered, her Commanding Officer said. An immensely professional soldier and an exceptional jockey, she approached every day within The Troop with an infectious energy the kind that lifted those around her without effort or intention and was unfailingly present for her comrades in both the small moments and the hard ones.LBdr Sullivan had recently qualified as an Advanced Regimental Riding Instructor and particularly enjoyed training the Military Working Horses and developing young horses. She also enjoyed delivering riding lessons to the Mounted Gunners within her Sub-Section and was frequently nominated to instruct the officers of The Troop. Additionally, LBdr Sullivan was routinely involved with delivering the Mounted Gunner Courses to qualify the next generation of Kings Troop soldiers for Ceremonial Operations. She was passionate about everything to do with The Troop and participated in every extra activity available including showjumping and The Troop Race.The shock of LBdr Ciara Sullivans loss is profound, said Lt Gen MR Elviss CB, MBE, COMARRC and Master Gunner St James Palace. A fine soldier, she died doing a job she loved surrounded by people who held her in the highest regard. A dedicated, committed and highly respected junior commander; she will be sorely missed.The Royal Regiment of Artillery and the wider British Army is a lesser place without her. I could not be more sorry nor saddened by her loss and my thoughts, prayers and condolences are with her family and friends. Ubique.LBdr Sullivan had ridden since childhood and competed in the showjumping arena before joining the Regiment. She was also a skilled footballer and a dedicated presence in the gym.Lance Bombardier Ciara Sullivan was a brilliant young soldier who served our nation with dedication, said Defence Secretary John Healey MP. Were all deeply shocked and saddened by her death.My thoughts are with Ciaras family, loved ones and colleagues at this devastating time.Royal Windsor Horse Show said the thoughts of its organisers and all of its connections were with LBdr Sullivans family, friends, and all soldiers of The Kings Troop, Royal Horse Artillery, at this exceptionally sad time.The Kings Troop, Royal Horse Artillery has lost not only an accomplished soldier and horsewoman, but the kind of person who made the Regiment, and the world, a better place simply by being part of it, her Commanding Officer added.The thoughts of every member of The Troop and The Gunners are with her family at this tragic time.Image credit: Ministry of Defence The post Kings Troop soldier dies following tragic incident at Royal Windsor Horse Show appeared first on Your Horse.

Englands first Level 2 Equine Coaching Apprenticeship will welcome its first cohort of apprentices when it launches next month. The apprenticeship, which is designed for both individuals and employers and enables participants to build coaching confidence, leadership and communication skills while continuing in their existing role, is open to anyone working within the equine industry in England.Delivered by the National Horseracing College (NHC), the apprenticeship aims to provide a clear pathway for career progression while helping equine businesses develop skilled, confident coaches within their teams.Participants will be required to commit to six hours per week of training and development over a 1218-month period. Incredibly proudWere incredibly proud to be launching Englands first Equine Coaching Apprenticeship, said Emma Cassidy, work-based learning manager at the National Horseracing College.This programme has been designed to support people already working within the equine industry to develop the confidence, communication skills and professional knowledge needed to become effective coaches. Importantly, although the apprenticeship is delivered by the National Horseracing College, it is open to individuals from all equine disciplines. With full funding available for many learners, we hope this will make professional development and career progression more accessible to people across the industry, while also helping employers develop skilled, knowledgeable and confident members of staff.Course contentThe apprenticeship will be delivered specifically within an equestrian environment and includes:Structured planning and delivery of progressive coaching sessionsCoaching of riders across varying abilitiesRisk assessment and health and safety management in practical settingsSafeguarding and duty of care responsibilitiesInclusive coaching practicesProfessional standards and reflective practiceOngoing assessment in a live coaching environmentWho is eligibleThe programme is open to those aged 16-21 who are employed for a minimum of 30 hours per week. Older candidates are accepted, but there is a small co-investment charge of 300.Participants must be employed in England and hold maths and English GCSE grades A to C or level 2 Functional skills if they are under 19 years old.Apprenticeships are funded by the government so incentives of up to 1,000 are available for employers. The course starts with a four-day in-person event at the National Horseracing College in Doncaster from Monday 8th to Thursday 11th June 2026. This is the only required attendance outside of the workplace.To find out more, click here.Images National Horseracing College.More from Your HorseDoes your horse really need to wear a rug when its wet? Equine vet advisesThree things to consider when working towards a rounder outlineSpooky ride? Horses are only scared of two things, says Richard MaxwellThe post New equine coaching apprenticeship set to launch appeared first on Your Horse.

A surprise Christmas present, a part time Princess and a mud-loving mare were among the winners at the first SEIB Search For A Star qualifier of the year which took place at the Wiltshire Show on Friday 27 March.In a change to the series this year, all the qualifying classes were run in conjunction with another show. Another significant change to qualifying events means only one combination will qualify for the chance to compete in either the Horse of the Year Show or Your Horse Live Search for a Star championships in each qualifying class. This means the series is able to offer more qualifying shows across a wider selection of venues. Tickets for Your Horse Live, which will take place at Stoneleigh Park on Friday 6 Sunday 8 November 2026, are on sale now.In-hand veteran horse or ponyNicola Weynburg and Mickey triumphed in the veteran horse or pony class.Nicola Weynburg and her 28-year-old Connemara pony, Mickey, had plenty to celebrate when they won the in-hand veteran horse or pony class as they not only qualified for Your Horse Live but it was also both horse and riders birthday. Its our 20th year together. All those years ago Mickey was a surprise Christmas present from my mum he was hidden in a stable, said Nicola who works at Airbus Defence.Weve done plenty of showjumping and eventing. He used to be a great puissance pony and has jumped 410. These days his ridden career has slowed down and weve done some senior showing classes but he still loves going out to a show. In-hand pure-bred traditional cobPaige Macauley and Prince JR were the in-hand pure-bred traditional cob winners.The pure-bred section of the in-hand traditional cob class was won by Paige Macauley and Prince JR.Im speechless. Weve never done showing before. He looked after me in there, said Paige. Ive owned Prince for four months and my day job is hosting princess parties for kids. Im the princess and hes my prince! I have the most amazing job, its our family business and we work a lot with the Princes Trust and Sophies Legacy.Open ridden veteranTriumphing in the open ridden veteran class were Daniella Girvan and On A High Touch.Healthcare administrator Daniella Girvan piloted the 19-year-old grey mare On A High Touch into first place in the open ridden veteran class, the one SEIB Search for a Star class which is open to all riders and not restricted to amateurs. We started veteran classes last year and decided we would give the Search for a Star Your Horse Live classes a go this year. I didnt think wed qualify first time out, said Daniella, who has owned Piglet for seven years.As well as loving showing and jumping shes also keen on food and rolling in mud!In-hand Mountain and MoorlandFinishing first in the in-hand Mountain and Moorland qualifier were Heidi Walgate and Geronimo of Catchpool.Geronimo of Catchpool, a Shetland pony who is known at home as Gerry, and his handler Heidi Walgate topped the in-hand Mountain and Moorland qualifier. Gerry is one of the family. He loves hunting and jumping too, hes shared by my four children and now me, said Heidi.This was our first show together and Gerry has the best temperament and so much character. My youngest is disabled and has epilepsy, shes lost her voice but is absolutely smitten with Gerry.Mountain and MoorlandLauren Allsopp and Murthwaite Lucky Lad II were the Mountain and Moorland winners.The Mountain and Moorland class was awarded to Lauren Allsopp and Murthwaite Lucky Lad II whose stable name is Sooty. Lauren describes the 14-year-old Fell pony as like a pair of faithful slippers.We bought Sooty from his breeders at the Murthwaite Stud when he was a two-year-old, we stumbled across him really, explained Lauren who works for the local authority.He was originally my mums pony and we broke him to drive before later swapping into showing and eventing. I did Search for a Star when I was 11 or 12-years-old in the Show Hunter pony class. We were always knocking on the door but never actually qualified so decided to come for a spin here today.In-hand plaited horse and hogged show cob Amanda Jones and Chronos won the in-hand plaited horse and hogged show cob class.Ex-racehorse, Chronos, and his handler Amanda Jones won the in-hand plaited horse and hogged show cob class.This is his first show. Hes a great mover and has been off the track for 18 months. He ran over hurdles very badly 12 times. We will eventually aim to compete in ridden showing classes with him, said Amanda.Amanda is no stranger to success in Search for a Star in-hand classes. In 2023, she won this class with her other horse, Be The Holy Man.In-hand plaited pony and lead rein pony Taking two wins was Llanai Curtsey.Gabriella Jordan Fords Welsh section A pony, Llanai Curtsey, won both the in-hand plaited pony and lead rein pony classes. Delilah Coombs was the jockey in the lead rein qualifier.In-hand part bred traditional cobFinishing first in the in-hand bred traditional cob class were Rochelle Green and Kincullia Major.The in-hand part bred traditional cob class is a new addition for 2026 and the first qualifiers were Rochelle Green riding her sister, Allana Greens Kincullia Major.We werent expecting to win. This is my first time showing him and we were winging it, said Rochelle. Allana has owned him for the last five years. He came from Ireland originally and was totally unhandled, he did a whole year of groundwork before anything else. Kincullia Major took second place in the Search for a Star HOYS cob finals with Allana and also and has competed at the London International Horse Show.First riddenTaking victory in the first ridden class were Isabella Dobson and Tryfel Royal Princess.The first ridden class was won by eight-year-old Isabella Dobson and the Welsh Section A mare, Tryfel Royal Princess. At our first show together last year she injured herself so this is our first proper season together, said Izzy who has been riding Tryfel Royal Princess for 18 months.The South Trent Pony Club members also compete in Working Hunter Pony classes and London International Horse Show qualifiers.Open Pony Club pony Georgia Reynolds and Moelgarnedd Arthur emerged victorious in the open Pony Club qualifier. Monmouthshire Pony Club members Georgia Reynolds and the 18-year-old Moelgarnedd Arthur, who is owned by Alison White, triumphed in the open Pony Club Pony qualifier. The pair qualified for Your Horse Live in the Still A Star Open Veteran class in 2025 but owing to an injury couldnt contest the finals. I thought we had no chance today. Arthur is great, we have been competing in everything from dressage and showing to endurance. Were also doing the Pony Club Hacking and Endurance Challenge, said Georgia.Riding Club show horse or ponyRosa Cartwright and Greenvale Don Legend topped the line up in the Riding Club show horse or pony.Mynydd RCs Rosa Cartwright and the 13-year-old Greenvale Don Legend were the winners of the Riding Club show horse or pony qualifier.Rosa has owned Donny, a Hanoverian/Welsh Part-Bred, since he was a yearling.Racehorse to Riding HorseThe SEIB Racehorse to Riding Horse qualifier was awarded to Marina Greenaway riding Donna Bamontes seven-year-old bay mare, Hagar, who is known at home as Hazel. Donna lost her husband, Perry, on Christmas Eve 2025. I had a few months when I stayed away from the horses. My team at home have been amazing, this was a last-minute team effort, said Donna.We saw the qualifier was on here a month ago so it was only then that we decided to get Hazel in and up and running. In that time shes been clipped, out hacking and practising in indoor schools. I told myself I cant stay at home and Ive got to get out.Hazel has been placed in nearly every qualifier shes been to. I never thought wed get another horse as good as Valentine Jak again. Hazel came from Bryan and Vicky Smart who Im very good friends with.Absolutely delightedI was absolutely delighted to host the SEIB SFAS and YHL classes at the Wiltshire Spring Show for the very first time this year, said Vincent Seddon, Wiltshire Show organiser.These prestigious classes brought an exciting new dimension to the show. The classes were very popular and the feedback has been positive. It was a pleasure to welcome new combinations and we look forward to building on this success in future years.Images 1st Class Images.More about Your Horse LiveBuy tickets Latest show announcementsShopping line upSign up to receive the latest show newsThe post A surprise Christmas present, a part-time Princess and a mud-loving mare triumph at SFAS qualifier appeared first on Your Horse.

One of the National Equine Forums long-standing supporters has been recognised for her dedicated service and commitment to the event with an Honorary Fellowship.Vicky Kangurs began working on the event in 2010 when the event was held at the Royal Society in London. Back then, she provided on-the-day support including reception and delegate coordination. In more recent years, Vicky has worked in a volunteer role and also assisted with social media coverage.I was utterly shocked but thrilled to be given this honour, as Ive played such a small part in the NEF, said Vicky who was presented with the Honorary Fellowship at the 2026 National Equine Forum (NEF) by NEF organising committee member Jane Holderness-Roddam and NEF chairman Tim Brigstocke.A thank you would have been more than enough, but I accepted the Honorary Fellowship without hesitation it is a great privilege from such a prestigious event. Im delighted to be able to continue my relationship with the NEF in this way.Vicky Kangurs with HRH The Princess Royal, President of NEF.Equine advocateIt has been wonderful to see the NEF go from strength to strength over the years, retaining its secure place at the forefront of equine debate, discussion and education, continued Vicky.Special thanks must go to Georgina Crossman for all her support during my time with the NEF. I will continue to champion the event in any way I can.Dr Georgina Crossman, administrator at NEF, said: Vickys Honorary Fellowship recognises not only years of practical support but also her ongoing commitment to championing the equine sector and the vital conversations led by the National Equine Forum. We are proud to have had Vicky on our team and delighted to be able to present her with an Honorary Fellowship.The 35th National Equine Forum will take place on Thursday 4 March 2027.Images Shai Dolev Photography.More from Your HorseIs barefoot a better choice for your horse?Why hooves crack and how to prevent itHow much roadwork is safe? Dr David Marlin explains best practiceHow to poultice a hoof: Alan Davies step-by-step guideThe post Long-standing supporter presented with Honorary Fellowship by the NEF appeared first on Your Horse.

At first glance, a round horse or pony with a cresty neck and dimpled quarters chomping on grass may look like a happy one. Yet beneath the glossy coat, excess weight places a quiet but relentless strain on their body, affecting everything from joints and lungs to metabolism and mood. Equine obesity is now one of the most widespread welfare challenges facing horses and ponies of all ages and the consequences can be life-limiting. The good news is that weight loss, when managed correctly, can be profoundly life-changing, restoring comfort, soundness and vitality long thought lost.From native ponies to performance horses, carrying excess weight increases the risk of laminitis, arthritis and metabolic disease at any stage of life. What is often underestimated, however, is just how transformative safe, sustained weight loss can be improving movement, energy levels and long-term health giving equines of all ages a second chance at a more comfortable, active life.Ten Tonne TedWhen Ted, a 15hh veteran black cob, arrived at Oxfordshire Retirement Livery nearly four years ago, he weighed in at 652kg well over 100 kilos more than he should to be healthy and was suffering with laminitis.His nickname for a little while was Ten Tonne Ted, because he was really quite round, says yard owner Jenny Surtees. He gradually put on weight at his previous livery yard as he was physically able to do less [due to his age]. There was a rule about no strip grazing and so [his owner, Robyn] couldnt control his calorie intake.Teds weight loss journey involved soaked Timothy hay grown on site, mixed with oat straw, fed at the recommended 1.5% dry matter of his bodyweight. This was split between four or five Nibbleze nets a day. He lived in a large stable with plenty of room to move around and, once recovered from laminitis, started to be turned out.All of our grazing fields have been specifically sown by us with horse-friendly grasses, explains Jenny. We have one field where we purposely dont reseed or fertilise it, so effectively hes got to move more to get the greenery, which fulfils all of his natural instincts to forage without artificially needing to restrict his intake with a muzzle or stabling him. Ted, aged 27, lost 160kg and the yard has been able to maintain his healthier waistline ever since, with no recurrence of laminitis. Over the winter, he was fed ad-lib hay in a barn, where he could choose to be outside with friends or inside.Losing weight and being able to maximise Teds forage intake through the use of lower calorie forages, including straw, is really important for his ongoing management.Weve been so careful with the transition that hes not a particularly greedy horse; he will eat his food and move on, adds Jenny.Non-weight bearing in 12hrsFellow retiree Meadow also arrived at Jennys facility grossly overweight.I think he was 690-something kilos and he might be 15.1hh. He wasnt in active laminitis when he came to us, but he was having hoof trouble, she recalls. He arrived on the Sunday and by Thursday he did have laminitis, although we had already started him on an appropriate diet by that point. He went from being fine one day to non-weight bearing within 12 hours. We did think that we might lose him, but he has turned a corner.The 19-year-old traditional coloured cob arrived at the yard three months ago and his weight loss journey is ongoing.Weve got weighing scales here so were accurate with the way that we track their weight, says Jenny. Meadow is in the barn on bedding he cant eat and going through the same process of soaked food, trickle nets. He wears shoes, so once hes able to and the vets happy to sign him off, hell be able to start walking rehab to encourage some weight loss.A mental transformationJenny, who has 50 horses on her retirement yard, says the change in both horses post-weight loss mentally as well as physically are rewarding. Meadow is already showing positive signs.He looks so different now and hes much more comfortable, much chirpier, says Jenny. Im very much looking forward to seeing his progress and hoping that he is much more comfortable. I think horses are incredibly good at coping with all sorts of negative environmental inputs. When they have the opportunity to move comfortably, its amazing how quickly they really come out of their shells. Its fascinating to see them develop this bigger personality, because suddenly theyre able to interact and move and be who they are without any discomfort.A whole new ponyWhen Sonny, a Welsh/Arab cross, arrived for Amy Taylors children to ride, the mare was already teetering on the edge of obesity. I remember my farrier saw her a few days later and gave me what for, warning me that she was on a one-way street to laminitis, says Amy. I was used to Thoroughbreds and poor doers, so this was new territory for me. I just hadnt seen it. My children didnt enjoy riding her; she was unresponsive, would only go so far before trying to turn for home, and even the smallest hill would make her huff and puff.With the help of a nutritionist, Amy placed Sonny on a calorie-restricted diet, including soaked hay mixed with straw and a balancer. She lived in a barn or a sparse paddock.As the weight came off, a whole new pony was born. Suddenly she would have a little jog out riding, happily canter up hills and would go forward when my daughter asked with her leg. We went from no one wanting to ride her to everyone wanting to, and shed keep up with my ex-racehorse when I led her out hacking on school days.She wasnt just physically fit and healthy, she was mentally so much happier and confident, too. She stayed with us for 20-odd years. I had to watch her weight the whole time, but correct diet and regular work meant she never became obese again. Image credit: Dengie Related contentDr David Marlin explains how to ride a horse so that they burn more caloriesThis is how being fat affects a horses bodyEquestrians reveal why they think there is a prevalence of obesitySimple checks to make if your horse is not losing weightDoes your horse have a sedentary lifestyle? What this means for his health and how to improve his wellbeingThe post How weight loss transformed my horse: four case studies you need to read appeared first on Your Horse.

The importance of forage is something we are taught in the early stages of learning how to take care of a horse, but how can you know what is in your horses hay or haylage? A new test promises to provide owners with a quick way to analyse their bale so they can make more informed choices around feeding.ForageQuick Scan, launched by Thunderbrook in association with Eurofins Agro,providesforageanalysis results in three working days using dry NIRS testing provided by Eurofins Agros laboratories.Forage consists of between 80 and 100 percent of a horses diet, said Thunderbrooks Rob Krabbenborg. It supports digestive health, natural behaviour, and overall wellbeing but it is often fed with little understanding for its nutritional values.Forage can differ depending on many factors including soil quality, plant diversity, stage of maturity at harvest, weather conditions and storage. With so many variables, no two bales are the same and content can vary dramatically in levels of energy, sugar, protein and minerals.Analysis is crucial to understanding what is being fed out, said Mr Krabbenborg. Horses are designed to consume fibre little and often, with a digestive system that relies on a steady intake of forage to function effectively. Forage also contributes significantly to the intake of sugar, energy and essential nutrients. If these elements are out of balance, the effects may be subtle at first, but over time can influence weight, behaviour, hoof quality and metabolic health.Mr Krabbenborg said test results have been designed to make forage analysis easy to understand and actionMr Krabbenborg points to the need to control sugar and starch intake, suggesting that both should be kept below 10 percent and that this can only be ascertained through accurate and regular testing.Eurofins Agro provides very fast but, more importantly, very accurate results that are easy to interpret and action, he continued. Understanding the nutritional composition of forage allows for a far more precise and thoughtful approach to feeding. Rather than adding supplements or balancers as a precaution, decisions can be made based on actual requirements.The Forage Quick Scan costs 24.95 per sample. The service can be purchased online and owners send off a sample of forage after receiving instructions via email on how to do so. Once testing has been completed, the results and accompanying advice will be sent by email. This practical feeding guidance is aimed to help make the data more useable and relevant to owners with a variety of experience levels.Horse owners need not be concerned that the data will be overwhelming, Mr Krabbenborg added. In fact, quite the opposite is the goal. The test results have been designed to make forage analysis easy to understand and, more importantly, easy to action.Related contentThis is why horses should not go longer than four hours without eatingWorried about a hay shortage? Alternative sources of forage to consider insteadIs it best to feed hay or haylage to a good doer?Expert guide to strip grazing fields in order to manage a horse or ponys weightThe post Unsure of the quality of your horses forage? New test promises quick answers appeared first on Your Horse.

Its easy to think that to jump successfully its essential to train regularly over a course of showjumps or a cross-country course. This is true to some extent horses need to know how to tackle a full course and deal with everything it throws up. However, when it comes to teaching your horse the technicalities of jumping, nothing beats gridwork.Whether youre a novice rider, have a young or inexperienced horse, or are both old hands at jumping, gridwork will help you to improve. It builds trust in your partnership and develops control, and these two things combined mean that jumping a course clear should become easier.What are the benefits of gridwork?There are many benefits of riding over grids. You can start with very basic grids and work up, which is great for confidence. Courses ask questions and the questions often come along quickly, which can be tough if you and/or your horse are still learning. Thankfully youll find the answers to all of these questions in gridwork, which should be practised regularly as part of your horses schooling routine.Gridwork can:Educate your horse on how to get out of trouble when things go wrong.Improve straightness.Help you ride more accurately.Lift your horses cadence.Build you and your horses confidence.Increase suppleness.Teach them to lengthen and shorten their stride.Improve balance and rhythm.Improve their shape.Let your horse thinkBefore you start gridwork, your horse must be able to pop over a single fence from canter, says top trainer John Thelwall. It doesnt need to be big, a cross-pole is fine, but they do need to have the basics of jumping in place before facing a grid.John believes that the most useful benefit of gridwork is teaching your horse to get themselves out of trouble.If your horse gets too deep to a fence, they need to work out how to still tackle it, he says. If they need to be placed at the fence perfectly to have the confidence to jump, theyre not going to get far. These exercises encourage them to think for themselves.Keeping straight through a grid is important, too.I build all my grids with straightness in mind. To lift themselves off their forehand and become lighter on their feet, your horse must be straight. My exercises show them that if they go straight, with their body following the line theyre taking, the task of jumping is made much easier.Five gridwork exercises to try at home1: Trotting polesWith a new horse or rider new to gridwork I always start with six simple trotting poles on the ground, says John. This is easy for the horse, doesnt ask too much of the rider, and builds confidence in both.Set it up: Lay out six ground poles with 5ft between each pole along the centre line of your arena.How to ride it:The most important thing is to use the poles to encourage your horse to lift their step for a better trot. Ride them forwards throughout, as if the poles arent there, keeping the contact and outline. Using poles will teach them that when you ask for more trot, it means height, not speed.Keep asking them to go forwards as you exit the line and see how far you can keep up the quality of trot they offered over the poles. Control your rising to stay balanced.2: Canter polesIts now time to step up to canter.Set it up: Change the six poles to a canter distance.Distances are only a guide and can be adjusted slightly to suit your horse. For canter work I use a shorter distance of 2.7m per stride instead of the 3.7m used in building courses, explains John. I find this distance allows a backward-thinking horse to be encouraged to go forwards, and a forward-thinking horse can learn to contain themselves.How to ride it:Ride over the poles in the same way as you did in trot forward into the contact and asking for an improved quality of canter.Be careful not to lean forwards and lift your seat over the poles. That may well make it easier for your horse, but because you use your seat to improve balance, rhythm and cadence, the desired results will be harder to achieve.3: Jump a gridAlthough this grid may be simple, its one of the most effective for improving your horses technique and speed of reaction, explains John.Set it up: Lay out a trot pole first, followed by a cross-pole 7.5ft away. After this, lay out a canter pole 9ft away, and then 9ft on from this an oxer. See the diagram.How to ride it:Build it up slowly, starting in trot with just the cross-pole and trot pole in place.Then add the canter pole and the front pole of the oxer.Once youre both confident with this, add the back pole of the oxer.Stay in jumping position until youve landed over the oxer so you dont accidentally bump down on their back.The next step: Over a number of sessions, you can raise the cross-pole and oxer to a height where your horse needs to make an effort, but isnt struggling. The cross-pole will encourage them to bend their back and make them quicker in front at the oxer.If you wish, you can add V-poles at the oxer (show in green on the diagram) to help keep your horse straight.4: Raised canter polesThis is a good exercise for a horse who tends to run at fences, which is a common issue with novices, says John. It teaches them to bring both hindlegs through, so that theyre taking off with them both equally underneath them. Once a horse feels how much power this gives them, they soon realise that they dont need to run at the jump and throw themselves over it.Set it up: Start with six poles on the ground set at canter distance and two placed together at the end to make an oxer. Place a ground pole at the start.How to ride it:Quietly canter through the grid a few times.When you feel your horse is ready, raise the poles one by one, starting with the oxer and working back from there. They dont need to be high, just 9-12in from the ground is fine.Try to stay still and balanced with the lightest of contacts, but if they need help understanding that they have to go slowly, you may have to take a hold. Dont let your seat touch the saddle on your way down the grid just stay even in your stirrups and let your horse find their own way through.5: Reverse raised canter polesIf your horse struggles to rebalance after a fence, this exercise will help them.Set it up: Change the oxer in exercise 4 to a cross-pole, with a ground pole in front. This now becomes the start of the grid, so youre riding it in reverse. Place a ground pole at the end too.How to ride it:Canter down the grid, starting with the cross-pole end.The key is to let your horse find their own way over the first two elements, then sit up and ask them to slow down and rebalance themselves so that you exit the grid in a canter thats good enough to approach another fence. Thats why this is excellent practise for jumping a course.Start with all of the poles on the ground and only raise them when youre both ready. This might not be in your first training session.To slow your horse down, half-halt as they come up over each pole and release as they land. It takes a bit of practise to get the timing right, but once you have, the result is a much more balanced horse.John Thelwall is best known as an event rider, having competed at Badminton and Burghley in the 1980s. He is also an experienced racing jockey and show jumper. John now concentrates on coaching, encouraging riders to find a positive connection with their horse.Related contentPiggy March training: jump out of trot to test rider balance and build trust in your horseNine course-walking tips for a clear round from Olympic champion Ben MaherOliver Townends training tactics for a horse who is very tense or freshThe post Hone your jumping style with these gridwork exercises from John Thelwall appeared first on Your Horse.

Her Majesty The Queen visited the Mars Badminton Horse Trials last week in her role as patron of Ebony Horse Club, which was the events designated charity.Ebony Horse Club is a riding stables in Brixton, London which uses horses to raise the education, life skills, wellbeing and aspirations of young people from disadvantaged communities within Lambeth. I first came across the Ebony Horse Club a few years ago in Brixton and I was so moved and humbled by the whole thing that I felt now was the time to get it going with a riding school, said Her Majesty. I remember it as just a patch of ground with no stables, so it is huge thanks to all the volunteers who work so hard. I am thrilled to be its Patron.AlumniGraduates of Ebony Horse Club include Khadijah Mellah, who sprung to prominence after winning a charity flat race in 2019, and jockey Hezekiah March, who made his debut at Plumpton earlier this year.I have been so touched by seeing the joy that ponies bring to these young people. I know from my own life experiences the therapeutic effect that horses can have, said international event rider Pippa Funnell who is an ambassador for the Ebony Horse Club.Badminton title sponsors, Mars, presented the charity with a years supply of horse feed.DemoFour of the charitys riders were chosen to take part in a demonstration in the main arena at Badminton in front of the The Queen. We are beyond thrilled to have taken part in this, something so big, I never thought I would be part of, said Theo Dorton, one of the demo riders. Thank you to Ebony for having me and giving me the opportunity to perform at Badminton. It has been amazing and I just cant wait to do more.Sid Holdsworth, CEO of Ebony Horse Club said This is a fantastic opportunity for our brilliantly talented young people, who were so excited to ride for HM The Queen. Thanks to our fantastic group of volunteers, the team at Badminton and HM The Queen, we have all had a fantastic day.Main image by Kit Houghton & Sally Newcomb/Badminton Horse Trials.Related contentIt works, so I stick with it: Laura Collett on showjumping her mare in bitless bridleChange of bit to prevent horse over-bending gives Emily King the best feeling so farNo teeth? No problem! Tim Prices Badminton ride is even more like a grandpa but as happy as everThe post The Queen visits Badminton Horse Trials appeared first on Your Horse.