As we move into the summer season at World Equestrian Center, we share a collection of stories that embody devotion, determination and an unwavering love for the horse. We meet remarkable individuals that are driven by their passion and have dedicated their lives to the equestrian industry, each in their own unique way. Read through to explore the stories!Read MoreThe post Volume II 2024 appeared first on World Equestrian Center.

The British Horse Society (BHS) are once again calling on the equestrian community to saddle up and take part in the charitys annual Rideathon Challenge.

Sophie is the Marketing Manager for Redpost, overseeing all aspects of E-commerce and Marketing. Sophie enjoys happy hacking with her now retired Show Horse Jim, and country walks with her rescue Labrador, Chester.About the productThe Kentucky Classic Fly Mask with Ears is expertly crafted from breathable mesh fabric, making it tough enough to withstand the rigors of the field. Its unique design ensures that the fabric always springs back into shape. It also has soft ear material with fine mesh holes. Kentucky Classic Fly Mask with Ears What were your first impressions?The Kentucky Fly Mask arrives with a cardboard frame to keep the shape of the mask, allowing it to be used straight away without any folds. The mask is extremely lightweight, with soft fabric around the top of mask and on the nose to reduce any pressure areas or rubbing. The UV protection within the mask is a must-have, especially with my older horse. The fine mesh allows the horse to maintain visibility while stopping any flys or insects from causing irritation. How was the sizing & fit?As with many Kentucky products, the classic fly mask is true to size. I went with a full, which gave plenty of room to securely attach using the two velcro straps under the jaw. There us a good amount of give with areas allowing stretch for a custom fit to the horses head. The ears allowed room at the top and had a good width to comfortably fit over the top, without squeezing or laying flush to the skin. The design allows for clearance over the eyes, which I have found a problem with other brands, the fold in the mesh keeps the material away from the eye, maintaining eyesight and reducing the risk of irritation. How did you test the product?When weather allowed, Jim has worn the fly mask in the field, and for once I have not had to search the hedgerows and entire field to find it after rubbing it off the room above the eye is definitely the reason for this! The mask has helped to increase his enjoyment in the field by reducing his irritation and the stress flys on the face can cause. What was your favourite feature?The space around the eyes and cut of the mask are the features that draw me to this horse fly mask. I have spent years trying to find the perfect fit for Jim, and the Kentucky Classic fly mask is perfect for him. Any other comments?I would highly recommend this mask, it is extremely high quality and has been designed with the horse in mind. The post Tried & Tested: Kentucky Classic Fly Mask with Ears in Black first appeared on Redpost Equestrian Blog.

What a week we had at Bramham, with Annaghmore Valoner winning the prestigious Defender CCI4*L, alongside superb performances from Et Hop du Matz and Amiro Island in the 4*L and 4*S respectively.From the momentwe drove in and I found myself saying, I love this event. Its a beautiful time of year, a beautiful park, and a beautifully-presented event. Its horse-friendly and competitor-friendly with a happy, relaxed atmosphere and a real buzz of the big stage.To me Bramham is an essential stepping stone a last stop for about-to-be 5* horses. Its full of meaty questions to really get your teeth stuck into and it tests the horses whilst bringing them on and preparing them for the very top level. Its the kind of event that reminds me why I wanted to become an event rider, an event I grew up wanting to ride at, and subsequently wanted to win.Annaghmore Valoner is as lovely a person as she is talented, so I couldnt be happier. Shes very sensitive a bit of a worrier and a horse who needs her hand holding to give her the chance for any latent talent to come to fruition. Her result here following her podium finish at Blenheim 4*L last Autumn has confirmed my hopes that she could be the next superstar. She has all the ingredients to be a top 5* horse; the speed, stamina, bravery, scope, and the training in all three phases. Watch this space!I was lucky enough to have a second top ten finish in the 4*L with the indomitable Et Hop du Matz, who made the cross country feel like childs play. He was giving me such a sensational ride that I punched the air half-way round in a very uncharacteristic way, and commented to a spectator as we cruised by this is as good as it gets! I was thrilled with his dressage test and he too show jumped beautifully, just tipping the second last. He will now set his sights firmly on an Autumn 5*.At the last minute 8 year old Amiro Island jumped in to run in the 4*S, filling the shoes of Jet Fighter who was unable to compete. The 4*S was being used by many nations as a final Olympic trial so it was a big ask of an 8 year old contesting his first Advanced/4*. Amiro Island joinied us as a recently backed 4 year old in 2020. He has taken everything is his stride ever since, this huge test was no different! He did a super dressage test, show jumped beautifully with just one unlucky rail, and was brave and straight across country. This being part of his education (not his goal) meant he ran steadily which he did immaculately.I couldnt be prouder of all three horses and our whole team who have worked so hard for this result, or happier for their respective owners with whom we share the journey.The post Harry Meade talks about his triumph at Bramham first appeared on Redpost Equestrian Blog.

TopicKey PointsThe Natural Hoof Growth ProcessHorses' hooves grow continuously, about 6-9 mm per month.Growth is essential for healthy hooves and replacing worn-out tissue.The hoof wall grows downward from the coronet band.Do Horseshoes Interfere with Growth?No significant difference in hoof growth rates between shod and unshod horses.Horseshoes prevent natural wear, making regular trimming crucial.Shoeing can affect hoof shape and mechanics, including the hoof angle.The Importance of Proper ShoeingImproper shoeing can lead to hoof problems.Skilled farriers are essential for correct shoe application.Shod horses should be re-shod every four to six weeks.Barefoot vs. ShodDecision depends on the horse's needs, work type, terrain, and health conditions.Some horses perform well barefoot, others need protection from shoes.Horses on hard or abrasive surfaces may require shoes to prevent wear.Alternatives to Traditional HorseshoesHoof Boots: Temporary protection during rides or work.Polymer Shoes: Allow natural hoof movement with protection.Glue-On Shoes: Less invasive, suitable for thin or damaged hoof walls.Maintaining Healthy HoovesRegular trimming every 3-4 weeks for barefoot, 4-6 weeks for shod horses.Balanced nutrition supports hoof health.Regular exercise promotes blood circulation.Clean, dry living conditions prevent infections.Horseshoes have been a staple in equine care for centuries, but their impact on hoof growth is a topic that often sparks debate among horse owners, farriers, and veterinarians. To understand whether horseshoes prevent hoof growth, we need to delve into the science behind hoof development and the effects of shoeing.The Natural Hoof Growth ProcessHorses' hooves grow continuously, much like human fingernails. In fact, the average horse's hoof grows about 6-9 mm per month RSPCA. This growth is essential for maintaining healthy hooves and replacing worn-out tissue. The hoof wall grows downward from the coronet band, which is the area where the hair meets the hoof at the top.Do Horseshoes Interfere with Growth?Contrary to popular belief, horseshoes do not directly prevent hoof growth. Research has shown that there is no significant difference in hoof growth rates between shod and unshod horses Journal of Equine Veterinary Science. A study published in the Journal of Equine Veterinary Science found that the mean growth at the dorsal growth cross mark for barefoot horses was 0.238 mm per day for the left fore and 0.235 mm per day for the right fore Journal of Equine Veterinary Science.Altered Wear PatternsIn unshod horses, natural wear helps maintain hoof shape and length. Horseshoes prevent this natural wear, which means regular trimming becomes crucial RSPCA.Changes in Hoof MechanicsA study exploring changes in hoof shape related to horseshoe application found that the proximal (coronary band) hoof circumference decreased more when horses were shod compared to barefoot Journal of Equine Veterinary Science. This suggests that shoeing can affect the overall shape and mechanics of the hoof.Hoof Angle ChangesThe same study observed that hoof angle decreased when horses were shod but increased when horses were barefoot over a seven-week interval Journal of Equine Veterinary Science. This indicates that shoeing can influence the angle at which the hoof grows.The Importance of Proper ShoeingWhile horseshoes don't prevent growth, improper shoeing can lead to hoof problems. It's crucial to have a skilled farrier who understands hoof biomechanics and can apply shoes correctly. The Royal Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (RSPCA) recommends that shod horses should be re-shod every four to six weeks, regardless of whether they have worn the shoes out RSPCA.Barefoot vs. Shod: A Balanced PerspectiveThe decision to shoe a horse or keep it barefoot depends on various factors, including:The horse's individual needsThe type of work or activity the horse performsThe terrain on which the horse typically movesAny existing hoof or leg conditionsSome horses perform well barefoot, while others benefit from the protection and support that horseshoes provide. For instance, horses working on hard or abrasive surfaces may need shoes to prevent excessive wear Equestrian Surfaces.Alternatives to Traditional HorseshoesFor horse owners concerned about the potential impact of metal shoes on hoof health, there are alternatives:Hoof BootsThese can be used for temporary protection during rides or work sessions RSPCA.Polymer ShoesThese flexible shoes allow for more natural hoof movement while still providing protection American Farriers Journal.Glue-On ShoesThese can be less invasive than traditional nailed-on shoes and may be suitable for horses with thin or damaged hoof walls American Farriers Journal.Maintaining Healthy HoovesWhether a horse is shod or barefoot, proper hoof care is essential. This includes:Regular trimming (every 3-4 weeks for barefoot horses, 4-6 weeks for shod horses) RSPCABalanced nutrition to support hoof health Just Horse RidersRegular exercise to promote blood circulation to the hoovesClean, dry living conditions to prevent bacterial and fungal infectionsConclusionWhile horseshoes don't prevent hoof growth, they do alter how the hoof grows and wears. The key to maintaining healthy hooves lies in understanding each horse's individual needs and providing appropriate care. Whether shod or barefoot, regular attention from a skilled farrier or hoof care professional is crucial for ensuring optimal hoof health and overall equine well-being.Remember, every horse is unique, and what works for one may not work for another. Always consult with your veterinarian and a qualified farrier to determine the best hoof care regimen for your equine companion.How do horses in the wild not get overgrown hooves?Horses in the wild naturally wear down their hooves by traveling over various terrains, which keeps their hooves at a manageable length. The constant movement and different surfaces, such as rocks and hard ground, help trim the hooves naturally.Is it better to shoe a horse or not?The decision to shoe a horse or leave it barefoot depends on several factors, including the horse's work, environment, and hoof health. Horses that work on hard or abrasive surfaces may benefit from shoes to protect their hooves, while horses with healthy hooves and less demanding workloads might do well barefoot.What happens if you don't shoe a horse?If a horse that needs shoes goes without them, it might experience excessive hoof wear, cracking, or discomfort, especially if it works on hard or rough surfaces. Regular hoof care and trimming are crucial for barefoot horses to prevent these issues.Does putting on a horseshoe hurt the horse?Putting on a horseshoe does not hurt the horse when done correctly. The nails used to attach the shoe are driven into the outer part of the hoof, which does not have nerve endings. A skilled farrier ensures that the process is painless and does not harm the horse.