HSI engagement with the Department delivers progress on bridleway funding Minister Dara Calleary at the launch of the Outdoor Recreation Infrastructure Scheme (ORIS) Horse Sport Ireland (HSI) has welcomed amendments to the Outdoor Recreation Infrastructure Scheme (ORIS) that will significantly increase access to funding for equestrian trails and bridleways. The announcement was made at the opening of a new ORIS funding round by Minister for Rural and Community Development and the Gaeltacht, Dara Calleary TD.Minister Calleary outlined that local authorities will now be able to submit one additional application for equestrian trails/bridleways of up to 50,000 under the Project Development Measure of the ORIS scheme which will allow development of equestrian projects to enable them to reach a standard for application under Measure 2 or Measure 3 of ORIS.Speaking on the announcement, Minister Calleary said:I am delighted to be announcing this significant funding package today that will continue to deliver for the outdoor recreation sector.I am pleased to be providing greater flexibility to local authorities and local development companies to fund the predevelopment work required for new projects, including for equestrian trails.Welcoming the ORIS scheme, HSI CEO Denis Duggan said: The inclusion of funding up to 50,000 per project for bridleways and equestrian trails as part of ORIS is a very positive development for the sport horse sector and the wider equine industry.Horse Sport Ireland has been engaging with Minister Calleary and his department over recent months to advocate for a dedicated funding stream for bridleways under ORIS.HSI has worked with and listened to our recreation stakeholders on the needs required to further supports for Irelands recreational equine sector.Mr Duggan continued; In a survey carried out there was a clear need for trail development outlined, and investment and government support in equestrian trails and bridleways will support the demand and the substantial tourism potential associated with horse trails.There is significant untapped potential for the development of bridleways across the country, and Ireland has not yet fully capitalised on this opportunity compared to our neighbours in the UK and across Europe.Mr Duggan outlined that feasibility work supported under the Project Development Measure could unlock access to funding of up to 500,000 in future ORIS rounds. This announcement represents an important first step in building a bridleway network, where local authorities identify opportunities for equestrian trails while not detracting from other trail projects competing for funding.The new ORIS 20262027 policy also introduces a targeted focus on equestrian trails. Local authorities will be encouraged to engage with local development companies and state bodies to identify opportunities projects developed in partnership will be prioritised.Mr Duggan added: We thank Minister Calleary for his engagement with HSI on behalf of the sector and for recognising the significant potential of equestrian trails to support rural communities and contribute to the growth of the sport horse sector.I would encourage any equine organisation, business or individual who sees potential for an equestrian trail / bridleway in their area to engage with HSI and their local authority or local development company to explore these new opportunities under ORIS, concluded Mr. Duggan.Details: ORIS Project Development Measure Equestrian Trails/BridlewaysDetailed development of projects which would enable them to reach a standard for application under Measure 2 or Measure 3 of ORIS.If sufficient interest and demand exist, one additional application focussing on equestrian trails/bridleways up to 50,000. https://assets.gov.ie/static/documents/c8441f61/ORIS_Scheme_Outline_2026_2027.pdfClosing date for applications: September 25th2026Local authorities may hold their own expression of interest process which will have a separate closing date set the local authority itself.Notes:In 2022 HSI in partnership with TREC Trails Ireland carried out a comprehensive survey of equestrian participants with 82% of respondents saying they engaged regularly in Trail Riding / Hacking. Almost three quarters of respondents do so on the road despite a significant proportion advising that they do not feel save on the road. In the survey, participants were asked if there was a potential for equestrian trail development in their area with 82% of respondents advising that there was.The post Horse Sport Ireland welcomes targeted focus on equestrian trails in new ORIS funding appeared first on .

According to the State Department of Agriculture, one horse in Yamhill County, Oregon, has tested positive for equine herpesvirus-1 (EHV-1). The horse is quarantined, and four additional horses have been exposed.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.

On May 22, an 18-year-old Quarter Horse cross mare in Adams County, Wisconsin, tested positive for strangles and equine herpesvirus-4 (EHV-4). The mare presented with lymphadenopathy on May 20. She is currently quarantined.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.

In this episode, host Stephanie Ruff talks with Dr. Carey Williams, equine extension specialist and interim director of the Equine Science Center at Rutgers University, in New Brunswick, New Jersey, where she focuses on equine nutrition, exercise physiology, and management practices that promote horse health and performance.They have a great conversation about all things haywhy its important, what types there are, how to determine how much to feed, and more! Even in Viral Ideas, Real Horses they discuss if green hay is always a better choice. Tune in!Watch Feeding Horses on YouTube or listen wherever you get your podcasts.Disclaimer: The information provided in this podcast is intended for educational and informational purposes only. It does not replace professional veterinary advice, diagnosis, or treatment. The hosts and guests might discuss general nutrition concepts, research, and personal experiences. These discussions should not be interpreted as specific recommendations for individual horses.The creators of this podcast make no guarantees regarding the accuracy, completeness, or applicability of the information discussed. They assume no responsibility for actions taken based on the content of this podcast. They also encourage listeners to seek professional guidance before making changes to their horses diet, supplements, or healthcare program.Meet the Nutritionist:Carey A. Williams, PhDCarey A. Williams, MS, PhD, is the equine extension specialist, and interim director of the Equine Science Center at Rutgers University, in New Brunswick, New Jersey, where she focuses on equine nutrition, exercise physiology, and management practices that promote horse health and performance. With a MS and PhD in animal science (equine nutrition focus) from Virginia Tech, Williams has become a respected expert in the field, contributing significantly to research and education in equine science. Her work includes developing educational programs for horse owners and professionals, conducting research on equine nutrition, and advising on best practices for horse care. Williams is also actively involved in outreach, helping to bridge the gap between scientific research and practical horse management. As a hobby, she is currently training her 9-year-old sport horse, Palmer, for dressage and eventing.

There was a plea for horse owners and riders to show greater humility at World Horse Welfares media briefing which took place at Saddlers Hall in London earlier today (Wednesday 3 June).David Mountford, Chief Executive of the British Equine Veterinary Association, made the call during a panel discussion at the event which was entitled Public acceptance of the involvement of horses in sport: what does good training look like?I think one of the things that is true in horse sports, in racing, is that we dont have much humility, said David. One of the things that we can do is bring a big box of humility to the table. We can all learn every week whether its from a colleague, whether its from someone with decades of experience and a huge tradition in the industry, or whether its from the latest research on how horses learn. Those riders at the very top level, they will be having weekly lessons and people throughout the industry should be having lessons on riding, but also lessons on whats going on with the science, how they can improve, how we can learn from others, both in research, new stuff, and tradition, old stuff.Decline in public support David was joined on the panel by Baroness Minette Batters, Chair of British Racings Horse Welfare Board,David OConnor, Chief of Sport at the US Equestrian Federation and Chair of the FEI Eventing Committee, and Lydia Hislop, a broadcaster and journalist. The panel was chaired by journalist and editor Lucy Higginson and explored the latest YouGov public opinion poll on the public acceptance of horses in sport.Results of the poll show that the public have become slightly less supportive of horse sport with 24.4% saying they do not support this under any circumstances, compared with 19.5% in 2024. The percentage of those who support the continued involvement of horses in sport has decreased from 23.3% in 2024 to 20.9%.Its really important that we speak to our audience. Well-regulated horse sports are the safest place, particularly for the Thoroughbred, that is the Formula 1 or the Porsche car equivalent, said Minette. The Horse Welfare Board has done many things since it was founded, and its really important for the independence of it that its not deemed to be just within the sport.The more we can open our doors as horse sport, as British racing, and show people what were doing because we all know that the people looking after the horse are the people closest to the horse, are the people who care most passionately. Its showing that, painting that picture, telling that story that is so important to create that better level of understanding. Weve got to keep telling that story.Horses seen as petsMost of the public viewed horses more as pets (with 65.0% indicating that was very or somewhat close to their view of horses) or leisure animals (64.9%) than working animals (56.1%), livestock (54.3%), or sport animals (49.4%). The vast majority of the public believe that welfare should always take priority, regardless of the effect on performance (70.3%), and that short-term pain or discomfort to improve performance was not very or not at all acceptable (77.3%).These results indicate that the majority of the public, including those who are closest to horses, believe a horses wellbeing should always take priority in training, regardless of the effect on performance, said Roly Owers, ceo at World Horse Welfare.However, more than half of all respondents either expressed concerns or did not trust at all that most people in horse sport train in a way that they believe is acceptable. We hope todays event provides food for thought and illustrates where those in horse sport have opportunities to build trust.Image Shutterstock.Related contentThese are the big benefits of regular hacking for horses and ridersHow to tell if a horse is happy: behaviourist reveals 13 key signsEssential horse worming schedule and management tips from a vetIntroducing your horse to a new herdThe post We can all learn every week: calls for the horse world to show greater humility appeared first on Your Horse.

An 18-year-old Oldenburg gelding in Burlington County, New Jersey, has tested positive for equine herpesvirus-1 (EHV-1). The horse and 18 exposed horses on the premises are under quarantine. There has been no recent horse movement within this herd, making the risk of disease spread from this case very low.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.

On May 26, a 10-year-old Quarter Horse gelding used for racing in Weld County, Colorado, tested positive for equine infectious anemia (EIA). The horse was tested due to exposure to an EIA-positive horse a year and a half ago.The gelding was euthanized. Twenty-seven horses have been exposed.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 EIAEquine infectious anemiais a viral disease that attacks horses immune systems. The virus is transmitted through the exchange of body fluids from an infected to an uninfected animal, often by blood-feeding insects such as horseflies. It can also be transmitted through the use of blood-contaminated instruments or needles.ACoggins test screens horses blood for antibodiesthat are indicative of the presence of the EIA virus. Most U.S. states require horses to have proof of a negative Coggins test to travel across state lines.Once an animal is infected with EIA, it is infected for life and can be a reservoir for the spread of disease. Not all horses show signs of disease,but those that do can exhibit:Progressive body condition loss;Muscle weakness;Poor stamina;Fever;Depression; andAnemia.EIA has no vaccine and no cure. A horse diagnosed with the disease dies, is euthanized, or must be placed under extremely strict quarantine conditions (at least 200 yards away from unaffected equids) for the rest of his life.

One horse at a stable in Broward County, Florida, has tested positive for strangles, marking the states 10thconfirmed strangles case of 2026.The sick horses premises and one epidemiologically linked premises have been quarantined. In total, 35 horses have been exposed.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.

Three horses in Wisconsin have tested positive for equine influenza, and one of the three horses has also tested positive for strangles.In Polk County, a 12-year-old Quarter Horse mare was confirmed positive for equine influenza on May 29. Two additional cases are suspected.In Dane County, a 3-year-old Quarter Horse mare tested positive for equine influenza on May 30. Also in Dane County, a 5-year-old Miniature Horse gelding tested positive for both influenza and strangles on June 1.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.About Equine InfluenzaEquine influenzais a highly contagious respiratory disease that infects horses, ponies, and other equids, such as donkeys, mules, and zebras. The virus that causes it is spread via saliva and respiratory secretions from infected horses. Horses are commonly exposed via horse-to-horse contact; aerosol transmission from coughing and sneezing; and contact with humans contaminated hands, shoes, or clothes or contaminated tack, buckets, or other equipment.Clinical signs of equine influenza infection can include a high fever (up to 106F); a dry, hacking cough; depression; weakness; anorexia; serous (watery) nasal discharge; and slightly enlarged lymph nodes. Consider monitoring your horses health at shows by taking his temperature daily, which can help you pick up on signs of infection early and take appropriate measures to reduce disease spread.Vaccinationis an important and inexpensive way to protect your horse. US Equestrian requires proof that horses have had an equine influenza vaccination within the six months prior to attending organization-sanctioned competitions or events. Your veterinarian can help you determine what other vaccines your horse might benefit from.In addition to vaccinating, following strictbiosecurity protocolscan help reduce your horses chance of infection and disease. Such measures include quarantining new equine arrivals at barns, disinfecting buckets and equipment, and preventing nose-to-nose contact between horses.

Barry OConnor at the Horse Sport Ireland International Marketing Symposium in 2016Horse Sport Ireland acknowledges the contribution of Barry OConnor in his role as an athlete representative on the Senior Jumping High Performance Advisory Group, and we thank him for his time and engagement in supporting the development of the programme.Following his decision to step down, a process will commence over the coming months to appoint a replacement athlete representative. This process will be informed by the principles underpinning athlete representation, including consideration of an Athletes Commission model to ensure effective and structured input from athletes into the high-performance system.Horse Sport Ireland remains committed to ongoing engagement with athletes as a key stakeholder group in the continued development of high-performance structures.The post Acknowledgement of Barry OConnor appeared first on .