Welcome to Barn Banter, the official podcast of Horse Illustrated. In Barn Banter episode 47, hosts Susan Friedlandand Horse Illustrated Editor In Chief Holly Caccamise chat with David Silver, founder and Executive Director of Detroit Horse Power.To end the episode, Holly chats with Michelle Fedewa of Lucky 7 Horse Rescue about Natsu, this months ASPCA Right Horse adoptable horse.Click here to listen on mobile.David Silver, Founder & Executive Director of Detroit Horse PowerDavid Silver of Detroit Horse Power, Barn Banter episode 47 guest.David Silver grew up as a competitive horseback rider in Westchester, N.Y. and graduated from Dartmouth College in 2012. He moved to Detroit through Teach For America and taught 4th and 5th grade from 2012-14. David then stepped outside the classroom and start Detroit Horse Power, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit that teaches Detroits youth valuable skills through riding and caring for horses. Since 2025, programs have brought youth from the city to partnering horse barns outside Detroit for free summer camps and after-school program. Construction is now underway to repurpose vacant land in Detroit into a transformational 14-acre urban equestrian center. The center is scheduled to open in December 2026. Detroit Horse Power Website Follow Detroit Horse Power on Instagram Follow Detroit Horse Power on FacebookAdoptable Horse of the Month, NatsuPhoto courtesy Lucky 7 Horse RescueNatsu is a talented young horse that is looking for his new person to take him on all kinds of adventures! He has been on many, many miles of trails and he has a very smooth and easy gait, as well as a smooth trot and canter. Natsu has energy to go, and the buttons of a well-trained horse. He is not for a beginner rider, and will require an intermediate to advanced rider because he is a forward and sensitive guy, but also extremely well-behaved.He is a pro at trailering and camping, and knows when hes working and when its rest time. He isnt spooky, but he needs guidance from his rider the first time hes at a new place until he falls into the groove of things.Learn more about Natsu here.In addition to Barn Banter episode 47, you can check out all previous episodes of Horse Illustrateds podcasts here.The post Barn Banter Episode 47 appeared first on Horse Illustrated Magazine.

A healthy pasture does far more than make a farm look good. It gives horses room to move, graze and follow the natural eating patterns their bodies were made for. Horse pastures work hard; grazing pressure, heavy traffic, drought, compaction and weeds all take a toll. Keeping a good pasture healthy, or helping a struggling pasture improve, requires consistent attention and a long-term plan.Ahorsesdigestive tract is designed to use forage, and horses naturally eatsmall amountsthroughout the day. Their hindgutcontainsmicroorganisms that help break down fiber and make use of the nutrients forage provides. A well-managed pasture supports that natural grazing behavior while giving horses the opportunity to move, forage and simply be horses. Taking care of the pasture is part of taking care of the horse.Graze-ON by Farriers Magic gives horse owners a practical way to support a pasture that is already performing well ormovea struggling pasture in the right direction. It meets each pasture where it is, supporting the soil and grass while fitting into the everyday realities of managing a working horse farm.Graze-ON combines corn protein meal (CPM) with sunflower hull ash. The CPM supplies nitrogen to feed established grasses and encourage healthy, dense growth. It also provides natural pre-emergent activity, helping reduce the number of newly germinating weeds that become established.Graze-ON does not kill weeds that are already growing, which is why regular mowingremainsan important part of the program.Mowing helps manage existing weeds and keeps them from going to seed while Graze-ON works to reduce the next generation.Sunflower hull ash provides potassium to support root development, plantstrengthand stress tolerance. Stronger roots helpgrassesmake better use of available water and nutrients, improving their ability to handle drought, grazing and high-traffic conditions.Graze-ONcontainsno synthetic herbicides and has zero re-entrytime; horses,pets, or peopledo not have to remain off the treated area. Farm life can continue without the interruption required by many conventional treatments.No two farms have the same needs or budget, so Graze-ON offers flexibility. It can be used throughout an entire pasture or focused on areas that need extra support. The best approach is one that fits your farm and can bemaintainedconsistently.Graze-ON is one piece of a complete pasture management plan,not the entire plan. Mowing, rotational grazing, reseeding and thoughtful management of drainage,compactionand grazing pressure all matter.Most importantly, Graze-ON is a program, not a one-time fix. We recommend giving your investment at least three years to work. Improving a struggling pasture takes patience, andmaintaininga good pasture requires continued care.Whether you are working to bring a pasture back or protect the progress you have already made, start where you can, stayconsistentand give your pasture the support it needs.Graze~ONby Farriers Magic The Pasture That PerformsThe post Graze-ON by Farriers Magic: The Pasture That Performs appeared first on Horse Illustrated Magazine.

When Tiffany van der Kooi was young, she was reading Horse Illustrated magazine and was drawn to the big, black, majestic horse in the centerfold poster with a flowing mane and tail. She hung up the poster and decided that one day she was going to own a Friesian, her dream breed.Photo by Bob LangrishFriesian horses originally came from Friesland, which is a province in The Netherlands. The breed first appeared in North America in the 1600s, but due to inbreeding, they eventually all but vanished. However, in 1974, Friesians were reintroduced to North America, and have since held their place as a growing breed.The versatility of Friesians has helped keep them relevant in the ever-changing sport horse world. They can be used as pleasure and competition mounts, and are also commonly used for driving, costume, and sometimes even light farm work.Living Her DreamWhen van der Kooi was in her 20s, she made her dream come true by buying a Friesian mare who was both in foal and had a foal at her sidea three-for-one deal! She decided to try her hand at breeding, and now runs the largest Friesian stallion station in the United States.Having grown up riding other breeds, she adored the calmer nature of the Friesians and the fact that she could take her stallions to shows, completing her U.S. Dressage Federation bronze and silver medals. She now shares her horses with her children.Her farm, Black Pearl Friesians, now stands six stallions. They have a full medical-grade laboratory and produce both frozen and fresh-cooled semen that ships across North America, including to Canada. They also serve mares on site with artificial insemination (no live cover).To help produce the best quality horses possible, van der Kooi focuses on preventing inbreeding and matching the right stallion with the right mares. During stallion testing, the horses receive scores on everything from their temperament to the specifics of their conformation.Licensed stallions also undergo genetic testing to ensure the longevity of the breed. She states that inbreeding has gone down significantly; her stallion, Omer 493, has the lowest kinship score in North America and has been critical for helping bring the inbreeding numbers down.Mounted Shooting & MoreCarey Clausen latched onto Friesians when she was just 5 years old after watching the movie Lady Hawk. Six years ago, while looking at an Andalusian stallion to breed one of her mares to, Clausen stumbled upon Sil VoN de Oostwal, better known as Patron. Through a series of events, he became hers about a year later.While not the typical mount for mounted shooting, Patron and Clausen have made their mark in the sport. While Patron is proficient at driving and dressage, Clausen loves showing off everything else Friesians can excel at.In addition to mounted shooting, Clausen uses Patron for ranch work and has found that he is excellent with cattle; hes even been to concerts and church services. He has helped countless people learn to trust horses and has grown a bit of a fan base, both in the mounted shooting community and beyond.Carey Clausens Sil VoN de Oostwal (Patron) is proficient in driving and dressage, but they also work cattle and compete in mounted shooting. Photo courtesy Carey ClausenChampion MareKasi Barrows mare, Daenerys Van Scarpa Kroon AAA, was bred in 2017 by Deanna Arbucci of Scarpa Ledge. Daenerys remained with Scarpa Ledge for her first few years and produced a colt in 2022 before being purchased by Barrow. Daenerys is Barrows first full Friesian, and in their time together, they have accomplished an ever-growing list of accolades.Barrow took Daenerys to the Friesian Horse Association of North America (FHANA) Central Mare Show East and, under the guidance of trainer Wim Cazemier, she accomplished a driving score of 85.5, earning her AAA and IBOP Champion of the day. She also was selected as Champion of Ster Mares 5 years and older and Provisional Kroon Mares and several other awards, leading her to being the overall Champion of the day.To help continue the Friesian breeds growing success as well as Daeneryss list of accomplishments, Daenerys was bred to Ulbran 502 for a 2025 foal.Barrow noted that Daenerys journey is just beginning. She plans to continue her future in both sport and breeding and is amazed by her willing, affectionate, and intelligent personality. She continues under saddle training with Anna Fischer, and Cazemier continues to assist with driving.Kasi Barrows mare, Daenerys Van Scarpa Kroon AAA, was Overall Champion of the day at the the Friesian Horse Association of North America (FHANA) Central Mare Show East. Photo courtesy Kasi BarrowThe Friesian Breed by the NumbersFrom dressage to driving and mounted shooting to working cattle, its clear that Friesians are a versatile breed that continues to grow in popularity.Photo by Bob Langrish Population: Worldwide, there are over 45,000 registered Friesians. In North America, there are around 8,000 Friesians. Height: Average 15.2-16 hands, but some are taller or shorter. Stallions must be 15.3 by the age of 4 to be in the studbook. Weight: 1,300+ pounds on average. Color: Black, with white markings minimized by selective breeding.To learn more about Friesians, visit the Friesian Horse Association of North America website at www.fhana.com and the Koninklijk Friesch Paarden-Stamboek (KFPS) at www.kfps-presenteert.nl/en. This article about the Friesian breed appeared in the July/August 2025 issue of Horse Illustratedmagazine.Click here to subscribe!The post Breed Portrait: Friesian appeared first on Horse Illustrated Magazine.

Tourists from all over the world descend on the Hawaiian Islands each year to enjoy the breathtaking scenery and expansive ocean views. But few visitors realize that the Big Island of Hawaii is home to the largest contiguous cattle ranch in the United States and one of the oldest: the 130,000-acre Parker Ranch. Although down from its heyday, nearly 150,000 head of cattle still live on the Hawaiian Islands. Theres nothing more picturesque than seeing a paniolo, the Hawaiian term for cowboy, herding cattle in the lush hills, the Pacific Ocean shining in the distance. Paniolo carry a rich tradition of horsemanship, equipment, and culture that few on the mainland are familiar with.Paniolo carry a rich tradition of horsemanship, equipment, and culture that few on the mainland are familiar with. Photo courtesy of Nancy Erger, Waimea, Hawai`i IslandPaniolo History Cattle first arrived on the islands in 1793, when British Navy Officer Captain George Vancouver gifted Hawaiis King Kamehameha with six cows and a bull. The king prohibited their slaughter, and their numbers soared.These wild cattle became a nuisance, destroying crops and charging residents. With the cattle presenting a growing problem, Kamehameha permitted their capture, beginning around 1812. Horses had arrived on the islands about a decade earlier, also as gifts.Although down from its heyday, nearly 150,000 head of cattle still live on the Hawaiian Islands. Photo courtesy of Nancy Erger, Waimea, Hawai`i IslandIn the 1830s, Hawaiians hired vaqueros to teach them how to work with the cattle on horseback. The history of vaqueros dates back to the 1500s, when the Spaniards arrived in Mexico and began to train Indigenous Mesoamerican men in cattle and horsemanship.Derived from the word vaca (Spanish for cow), the vaqueros became legendary horseman. The vaqueros spread into what is now the Western United States, bringing with them their unique horsemanship, equipment and culture, which they eventually shared with the Hawaiian people.Our people are gifted with great hand-eye coordination; they took very quickly to horses, cattle and equipment, explains Billy Bergin, DVM, a retired veterinarian, founder of the Paniolo Preservation Society and co-author of the book The Hawaiian Horse, as well as a series of books on Parker Ranch. It was quick learning for the native Hawaiian people to learn to work cattle and use a lariat.Working cattle on the islands came with unusual challenges, including dense terrain. Before refrigeration was available, the cattle had to be shipped live. This required the paniolo to swim their horses and cattle out to longboats. The cattle were then tied to the sides of boats before being hoisted up to the awaiting steamers.Few visitors realize that the Big Island of Hawaii is home to the largest contiguous cattle ranch in the United States and one of the oldest, Parker Ranch. Photo courtesy of Nancy Erger, Waimea, Hawai`i IslandPaniolo EquipmentPaniolo retained the vaqueros wide-brimmed hats and leather boots but used lighter fabrics for clothing and more colorful prints. The ladies would wear large, colorful skirts to protect their clothing. This skirt is known as pa`u, and in modern-day parades, the pa`u is still worn with different colors representing different islands. Hawaiis rich canoe-building tradition helped them quickly adapt to creating lariats, bridles and saddles.In the Pacific, canoes were launched with different knots, braids and cords, so we already had those skills in our makeup, Bergin says. Hawaiians quickly learned how to build their own lariats and bridles, whips, and whatever else they needed.A paniolo holds the state flag of Hawaii at a rodeo. Photo courtesy of Nancy Erger, Waimea, Hawai`i IslandA native tree called the neneleau made the perfect material for saddle trees with its light weight and tight grain.It takes the hand of a good woodworker to build a saddle tree, Bergin says. Those same woodworkers grandfathers probably built sea vessels. Paniolo saddles feature more rawhide than traditional western saddles because rawhide is less expensive and stands up to the wet climate more effectively. Cured rawhide also allows some movement, making it more comfortable for horses. Another unique aspect of Hawaiian saddles is the aweawe, which refers to the braided rawhide strapping and rigging.Aweawe is very distinct piece in the identity of the Hawaiian tree saddle, which also differs from island to island and sometimes even within the islands between ranches, says DeeDee Bertelmann, a multi-generational employee of Parker Ranch who serves as the livestock administrator.Hawaiian saddle makers use personal leaf brand stamps to decorate the leather. The stamps were traditionally made from horse molars.Theres nothing more picturesque than seeing a paniolo herding cattle in the lush hills, the Pacific Ocean shining in the distance. Photo courtesy of Nancy Erger, Waimea, Hawai`i IslandPaniolo CultureThe most important culture around our paniolo lifestyle is familyohanaand our values, Bertelmann says. First and foremost is respect and responsibility to our `aina (land) and to each other. Then the kuleana to care for the animals we raise.As Bertelmann demonstrates, the language itself is another key aspect of the culture.The Hawaiian language is still used today on working ranches, Bergin explains. They have young men and women who grew up in that culture, and a lot of their communication in the field is in the Hawaiian language.Hawaiis rich canoe-building tradition helped them quickly adapt to creating lariats, bridles and saddles. Photo courtesy of Nancy Erger, Waimea, Hawai`i IslandMusic is another pillar of paniolo culture, just as country music is associated with mainland cowboys. One aspect of paniolo music is the use of classic Hawaiian slack-key guitar, ukuleles and vocals.The famous guitar artists of Hawaii trace back to paniolo, Bergin shares.Bertelmann agrees.Mo`olelo, or storytelling, is also a tradition not only in our Hawaiian way of life but in our paniolo way of life, she says. Knowledge is transferred from one generation to another by way of our storytelling as well as a vessel to hold close our ancestors teachings and knowledge.Bergin shares that cooking is another important aspect of paniolo culture. Men are often the chefs, and meat is made jerk-style or smoked. Paniolo spending long days working cattle in the hills and fields would often stop for a late lunch, he says. A few men would break off to gather herbs and other edibles in the forest and return with sticks to use as chopsticks, a true blending of cultures.Paniolo Horsemanship Rodeo has long played a role in paniolo culture. In fact, in 1908, three Hawaiians traveled to Wyomings Cheyenne Frontier Days, the worlds largest outdoor rodeo. To everyones surprise, Ikua Purdy won the steer-roping contest in 56 seconds, his cousin Archie Ka`au`a came in second, and another cousin, Jack Low, placed sixth despite having an asthma attack.Photo courtesy of Nancy Erger, Waimea, Hawai`i IslandMany years later, rodeo is helping to reinvigorate Hawaiis paniolo culture.When Hawaii joined the National High School Rodeo Association in 1988, that helped preserve the tradition, Bergin says, adding that it also helped motivate youth to keep their grades up and go on to college.The islands also host their own rodeos and parades to keep traditions alive. However, the culture is under threat.Today we are fighting for way of life in many different aspects, and one of the hardest is living on an island that is being bought out by foreigners and development, Bertelmann shares. This is one reason Bergin helped launch the Paniolo Preservation Society in 1998.He says the paniolos gentle style of horsemanship is a thing of beauty, built on working in harmony with the animals.The mishandling of animals is looked upon very, very harshly by the population, he says. The more humane you handle animals and each other, the better.The mishandling of animals is looked upon very, very harshly by the population, says Billy Bergin. Photo courtesy of Nancy Erger, Waimea, Hawai`i IslandFor example, during herding, paniolo keep their lariats low, spinning slowly beside the horse rather than high overhead, causing as little disruption as possible.Its very smooth and melodic, Bergin explains.Visitors to the islands can find their own horseback riding adventures at a number of stables. They can also learn more about paniolo by visiting Parker Ranch and the Paniolo Preservation Society, both located on the Big Island of Hawaii. This article about the paniolo of Hawaii appeared in the July/August 2025 issue of Horse Illustratedmagazine.Click here to subscribe!The post The Paniolo of Hawaii: Cowboy Tradition appeared first on Horse Illustrated Magazine.

New research has explored what equine welfare means to horse owners and those who care for horses.The study,What Is Welfare? A Qualitative Study into Perceptions of Equine Welfare of Horse Owners, identified a strong commitment to improving horses lives but also a continuing gap between understanding welfare principles and consistently putting them into practice.The research has been published in theInternational Journal of Equine Science and involved researchers from Hartpury University, EQuerry Co, Karlstad University, the Swedish National Equestrian School of Excellence, and Van Hall Larenstein University of Applied Sciences.The researchers analysed responses from 341 owners and equestrian participants, who answered eight open-ended questions about horse care, riding, training and welfare. Responses revealed four overarching themes: equine husbandry; human-horse interaction; equitation and training; and personal development and ethics.Equine husbandry emerged as the most prominent aspect of welfare for participants.Respondents highlighted the importance ofappropriate housing and management; access to forage, food and water; sufficient space and freedom of movement;year-round turnout;social contact with other horses;opportunities to express natural behaviours; andaccess to appropriate veterinary, farriery and other professional care.Among respondents discussing year-round turnout, 98% highlighted access to appropriate turnout, while 69% specifically mentioned social contact with other horses.The findings reinforce the importance owners place on management systems that allow horses to move, forage, interact socially and experience an environment suited to their behavioural needs.The research also demonstrates that welfare is closely connected to what happens when horses are ridden and trained.Ethical, consistent and welfare-based training was highlighted by every participant. Respondents also placed considerable emphasis on having access to knowledgeable, supportive and trustworthy coaches.The research identified concerns around inconsistent training practices, the misuse of tack and equipment, and the inappropriate use of artificial aids such as whips and spurs.The authors argue that evidence-based coaching can help riders understand equine learning, communicate more clearly with horses and recognise signs that a horse may be experiencing discomfort, stress or conflict.Participants emphasised the importance of understanding horse behaviour and being able to recognise signs of stress, pain or other abnormalities. The findings also highlighted the importance of recognising horses as sentient beings and approaching them with patience, kindness, respect, empathy and compassion.The researchers stressed that good welfare requires people to interpret horses behaviour accurately avoiding both inappropriate anthropomorphism and assumptions that horses emotional experiences can be ignored.They suggested that coaching philosophies can have a lasting influence on owners beliefs and practices. Providing accessible, evidence-based education could therefore help equestrians question established practices, reflect on previous experiences and make welfare-focused decisions throughout their lives with horses.Improving the lives of horsesThis research shows that horse owners are thinking deeply about welfare, said lead authorDr Victoria Lewis, Senior Lecturer in Equestrian Performance at Hartpury University.They recognise that welfare encompasses much more than physical health it includes behaviour, emotional wellbeing, training, relationships and the horses ability to express natural behaviours.What is particularly important is the opportunity to translate that awareness into everyday practice. Education has a crucial role to play in helping horse owners access reliable information, develop their skills and make informed decisions that genuinely improve the lives of horses.The study concludes that there is widespread and genuine concern for equine welfare among the respondents, but that awareness does not always translate into consistent application.The authors call for education and training initiatives that reflect the realities of everyday horse care across different disciplines, cultures and levels of experience.They argue that equestrian education should combine practical skills with scientific understanding and ethical reflection, empowering owners, riders and coaches to make welfare-focused decisions.The next step is not simply telling people that welfare matters, added Dr Lewis. It is empowering them with the evidence, practical skills and confidence to make positive changes at the grassroots level. That is where education, research and collaboration across the equestrian sector can make a real difference.Lead image by ShutterstockRelated contentHow to provide a stabled horse with the three Fs (and why its so important that you do)7 ways to enrich your horses environmentHow to tell if a horse is happyThe post What does welfare really mean? New research explores horse owners views appeared first on Your Horse.

Pure Feed has completed its move to a fully soya-free range. Condition Pellets, Veteran Pellets and Meadow Mash were the final three products to be reformulated, so every feed in the current Pure Feed range is now made without soya.For owners who actively choose soya-free feeds, this makes the range simpler to navigate. It does not mean that every bag has the same nutritional purpose, however. A conditioning feed, senior feed and soaked hay replacer still do very different jobs, so the horses individual needs should remain the starting point.What has changed?Pure Feed began removing soya from its recipes over a period of time. According to the supplier, all of its mixes had moved to soya-free formulations by late 2024. The remaining three products have now followed: Pure Feed Condition Pellets; Pure Feed Veteran Pellets; and Pure Feed Meadow Mash. Condition Pellets, Veteran Pellets and Meadow Mash were the final three products to move to soya-free formulations. Image supplied by Pure Feed.The recipes and nutritional figures shown on the current product pages reflect the updated formulations. If you have an older bag in the feed room, check its label rather than assuming the ingredients and analysis are identical.Why has Pure Feed removed soya?Pure Feed says more owners are looking closely at ingredient lists and asking for straightforward feeds made from ingredients they feel confident using. Moving the complete range to soya-free recipes gives those customers a consistent choice across feeds for maintenance, condition, performance, veterans, breeding stock and forage replacement.Soya-free should not be treated as a shortcut for deciding whether a feed suits a horse. It does not automatically tell you how much energy, sugar, starch, protein, fibre, vitamins or minerals the product supplies. Those details still need to be considered alongside forage, workload, body condition and any veterinary concerns.The three newly reformulated feedsPure Feed Condition PelletsPure Feed Condition Pellets are designed for horses that need help gaining or maintaining condition. The current soya-free formula uses fibre and oil to provide slow-release energy and supplies 14.4% protein, 20% fibre, 6.5% oil, 4% naturally occurring sugar and 6% starch.The pellets can be fed dry or prepared as a mash, making them a useful option for fussy horses or those that prefer a pelleted feed. They contain an added vitamin and mineral package, so the manufacturers stated feeding rate matters when balancing the complete ration.Pure Feed Veteran PelletsPure Feed Veteran Pellets are formulated for older horses that need a nutrient-dense senior feed in pelleted form. They can be soaked to make a soft mash for horses that find chewing harder. The current recipe provides 12.66% protein, 20% fibre, 5% oil, 4% naturally occurring sugar and 7% starch.The formula includes elevated vitamins and minerals, quality protein, prebiotic fructo-oligosaccharides and live yeast. Age alone does not determine the right feed, so assess the horses teeth, weight, body condition, workload and forage before increasing calories.Pure Feed Meadow MashPure Feed Meadow Mash is a quick-soaking, high-fibre mash designed as a partial hay replacer. It contains no complete added vitamin and mineral package, which distinguishes it from the two fortified feeds above. The current formulation supplies 23% fibre, 4% naturally occurring sugar and 6% starch, and soaks in approximately five minutes.It can be useful for older horses with poor teeth, fussy eaters, horses that need a low-dust source of fibre and situations where adding water to the ration is helpful. Read our fuller guide to using a soaked hay replacer for preparation and feeding considerations.How to choose between themStart with the job the feed needs to do: Condition and weight gain: consider Condition Pellets where additional controlled calories and a fortified ration are required. Senior nutrition: consider Veteran Pellets for an older horse that needs a fortified feed and may benefit from a soft mash. Soaked fibre or partial forage replacement: consider Meadow Mash where the priority is an easy-to-chew, low-dust fibre source rather than a complete vitamin and mineral package.Do not select a feed on one label claim alone. Compare the digestible energy, sugar and starch, whether the product is fortified, the feeding rate and how it fits with the forage already supplied. A feed described as low in sugar or starch is not automatically suitable for every horse with laminitis, equine metabolic syndrome or PPID. Ask your vet or a suitably qualified equine nutritionist for individual advice.Changing to a new formulationEven when the product name stays the same, a reformulation is still a dietary change. Check the ingredient list, nutritional analysis and preparation instructions on the new bag, particularly if your horse has been eating an older version. Introduce the new feed gradually rather than changing the whole ration at once. Weigh the daily amount instead of relying on an unmeasured scoop. Follow the current bag instructions for soaking and feeding rates. Monitor appetite, droppings, body condition and behaviour during the transition. Keep forage at the centre of the diet and provide constant access to clean, fresh water.Owners can now choose from the Pure Feed range knowing that the current formulations are made without soya, while still selecting the product according to the horses nutritional requirements.Browse the Pure Feed range, or compare more options in our horse cubes, mixes and mashes collection.

<p><strong>August is often a holding month for horse paddocks. Growth may be slow, grass can become stemmy and uneven, and the effects of summer grazing are usually easy to see.</strong></p><p>That makes late summer a useful time to assess rather than rush. A measured tidy-up now can protect the remaining sward and prepare worn areas for stronger growth when rain and cooler conditions return.</p><h2>Start with a simple paddock audit</h2><p>Walk each field and note where the problems are. A few photos on your phone can make it easier to compare the same spots after autumn regrowth.</p><ul> <li><strong>Gateways and troughs:</strong> look for bare soil, ruts and heavily compacted routes.</li> <li><strong>Grazed areas:</strong> identify very short patches that are being revisited before they recover.</li> <li><strong>Rejected areas:</strong> mark tall, stemmy clumps and growth around dunging areas.</li> <li><strong>Weeds:</strong> record ragwort, docks, thistles and any plant you cannot confidently identify.</li> <li><strong>Fences and water:</strong> check posts, tape, gates, troughs and access before wetter weather makes repairs harder.</li></ul><h2>Tidy rough growth without weakening the sward</h2><p>If grass has become coarse or patchy, topping can remove old stems and help create a more even starting point for fresh growth. Avoid cutting a drought-stressed paddock very short. The grass needs leaf area to recover, and bare ground gives weeds an easier place to establish.</p><p>Where possible, move horses before they repeatedly graze the same short areas. Temporary divisions can help rest part of a field without requiring a permanent layout. Browse <a href="/collections/electric-fencing-horse-kits">electric fencing kits for horses</a> if a simple rotation or back fence would make recovery easier.</p><h2>Deal with late-summer weeds before they seed</h2><p>Thin or stressed swards often leave space for weeds. Docks and thistles can be cut before seed is dispersed, although established roots may need a longer-term control plan. Do not spray simply because weeds are visible: hot, dry conditions can reduce treatment effectiveness, and every product has its own application and grazing instructions.</p><figure style="margin: 1.5rem auto; max-width: 900px; text-align: center;"> <img src="https://mcusercontent.com/c01b0d95027ca2e90266a62c5/images/83cf5cb6-b17f-c486-5213-b6f33e67dbb9.jpg" alt="Flowering ragwort growing in a horse paddock during late summer" width="1000" height="667" loading="lazy" decoding="async" style="display: block; height: auto; max-width: 100%; width: 100%;"> <figcaption style="font-size: 0.9em; margin-top: 0.5rem;">Ragwort should be removed safely and never left where horses can reach it. Image supplied by Suregrow.</figcaption></figure><p>Ragwort needs particular care. It is poisonous to horses and remains toxic when dried. Remove the whole plant, including the roots, wear suitable gloves and keep pulled or cut material away from grazing and forage. Dispose of it in line with current local and government guidance. If identification or the scale of an infestation is uncertain, seek professional advice.</p><h2>Protect the areas that need to recover</h2><p>A late-summer plan often works better than a single large job:</p><ul> <li>rest the weakest section before autumn rain arrives;</li> <li>move water, forage or mineral points away from badly worn ground where practical;</li> <li>keep poo-picking to reduce rejected areas and make new weeds easier to spot;</li> <li>repair fencing while access is firm; and</li> <li>decide which gateways or feeding areas will need protection in winter.</li></ul><h2>Plan patching or reseeding for the moisture window</h2><p>Late summer into early autumn can provide useful conditions for patch repair because soil is still relatively warm and rainfall may improve establishment. Do not scatter seed onto compacted, grazed ground and expect it to survive. Identify the cause of the damage, prepare the surface as the seed supplier directs and keep horses off the repaired section while seedlings establish.</p><p>Choose a mixture for the intended use, whether that is routine horse grazing, a hard-wearing gateway or forage production. Our <a href="/collections/new-horse-grass-seed-fertiliser">equestrian grass seed and fertiliser collection</a> brings the relevant options together.</p><h2>Do not fertilise a dry, inactive paddock</h2><p>Moisture is essential for useful nutrient uptake. Suregrow advises waiting through hot, dry conditions and applying when rain or adequate moisture returns. The current published timing table for <a href="/products/1474">Suregrow Fertiliser</a> lists spring and summer use from early March to late July, followed by an autumn window from September to mid-November. Check the current bag label or ask the manufacturer before making an August application.</p><p>A soil test can help establish whether fertiliser or lime is actually required. Applying nutrients without knowing what the soil needs can waste money and will not correct compaction, drainage or grazing pressure.</p><h2>Your August paddock checklist</h2><ul> <li>Photograph and map bare, compacted and weed-heavy areas.</li> <li>Top rough grass only where conditions allow, without scalping the sward.</li> <li>Remove ragwort safely and prevent docks and thistles setting seed.</li> <li>Rest overgrazed sections and spread traffic away from worn gateways.</li> <li>Repair fences, gates and water points before wetter ground arrives.</li> <li>Choose seed for the job and prepare a protected repair area.</li> <li>Wait for moisture and confirm the current label timing before fertilising.</li></ul><p>If seedheads and rough summer growth are still the main issue, read our guide to <a href="/blogs/equestrian-articles/topping-horse-paddock-summer-july-guide">topping a horse paddock in summer</a>. Then move on to the <a href="/blogs/equestrian-articles/autumn-horse-paddock-care-september-checklist">September paddock plan</a> when cooler weather and autumn rain arrive.</p>

Cooler days, warm soil and returning rain can trigger an autumn flush: a fresh burst of grass growth after the slower weeks of late summer.That growth can help build useful cover for winter, but it needs managing. September is the month to balance grazing intake, give tired areas time to recover, deal with persistent weeds and strengthen the sward before wet ground and heavy traffic increase the risk of poaching.1. Treat fresh autumn grass as a genuine grazing changeDo not assume autumn grass is automatically low-risk. Rapidly changing pasture can affect calorie and sugar intake, particularly in good doers and horses with a history of laminitis, equine metabolic syndrome or PPID.Check body condition, crest development and grazing behaviour, and make changes gradually. Strip grazing, a suitable grazing muzzle or restricted access may form part of an individual plan. Read our guide to laminitis risk and seasonal grass changes, and ask your vet for advice if your horse is vulnerable or shows signs of foot soreness.2. Rotate early enough to let grass recoverIf you have more than one area available, move horses before the main paddock is grazed down or churned up. Resting ground while it is still actively growing gives the sward a better chance to thicken before winter. Use a back fence so grazed sections are not continually revisited. Protect gateways, troughs and feeding points before they become muddy bottlenecks. Keep horses off saturated ground where hooves will damage the soil structure. Continue poo-picking so rejected patches do not expand.Where a temporary division would help, see our electric fencing kits for horses.3. Repair worn patches while conditions suitSeptember can be a useful time to patch bare ground because soil may still be warm while moisture improves germination. Concentrate on gateways, around troughs and other high-traffic areas. Prepare the ground and protect it from grazing according to the seed supplier's instructions.Use a mixture intended for the job rather than choosing seed on price alone. A grazing paddock, hard-wearing access route and field intended for hay or haylage have different requirements. Browse horse paddock grass seed and fertiliser to compare the current options.4. Decide whether autumn fertiliser is neededFertiliser cannot correct every paddock problem. Soil pH, nutrient status, drainage, compaction and grazing pressure all affect grass performance, so a soil test is a sensible starting point where the cause of poor growth is unclear. Suregrow is formulated for use on horse and pony paddocks. Image supplied by Suregrow.Suregrow Fertiliser supplies nitrogen, phosphorus and sulphur through a slow-release formulation designed to support sustained growth, root development and a denser sward. The manufacturer's published autumn rate is four 20kg bags per acre from September to mid-November. Spread it evenly and follow the current bag label. Rainfall or heavy dew helps the pellets dissolve.Suregrow states that horses may remain on or return to the paddock immediately after application where there is at least 50mm (2in) of grass. That condition matters: follow the current manufacturer instructions rather than applying the same rule to a bare or overgrazed field, and do not feed the product to animals.5. Take a final look at perennial weedsDocks, thistles and nettles are still active before winter dormancy. Digging out individual plants or using an appropriate targeted treatment can reduce the burden next spring. Follow the herbicide label and all grazing restrictions, or use a qualified contractor.Ragwort needs separate care because it is poisonous to horses and remains toxic when dried. Remove the whole plant safely, keep all cut material away from grazing and forage, and dispose of it in line with current guidance.6. Prepare the paddock for winter trafficUse September to deal with the small weaknesses that become large problems in prolonged wet weather: repair loose posts, damaged tape and awkward gates; make sure troughs drain without creating a permanent bog; identify a turnout or sacrifice area for the wettest periods; move stored forage and field equipment before vehicle access becomes difficult; and plan how you will protect newly seeded or rested areas.It is also a good time to check shelters and stable routines. Our guide to preparing the stable for winter covers the indoor side of the seasonal change.Your September paddock checklist Monitor fresh grass and adjust grazing for horses at risk. Rotate or rest ground before it is grazed bare or poached. Patch suitable worn areas while soil is warm and moisture is available. Use a soil test where nutrient need or pH is uncertain. Apply fertiliser only at the labelled rate and under the stated grazing conditions. Remove ragwort safely and tackle perennial weeds before dormancy. Repair fencing, gates, trough areas and winter access routes.If your paddock is still showing the effects of a dry summer, start with the late-summer recovery checklist before encouraging more growth. A stronger winter paddock starts with protecting the grass and soil you already have.

By July, a horse paddock can change quickly. Grass may shoot up after rain, slow almost to a standstill during a hot spell and leave behind tall seedheads or rough patches that horses avoid.Topping can help reset uneven summer growth, but timing matters. Cutting a dry, stressed sward too tightly can make recovery harder, while mowing without checking for poisonous plants can create a serious grazing hazard. The aim is not to make the field look like a lawn. It is to keep useful grass leafy, protect ground cover and stop problem plants setting seed.What does topping a horse paddock do?Topping means cutting the taller, less palatable growth that animals have left behind. Used carefully, it can: remove mature grass seedheads and coarse stems; encourage more even, leafy regrowth when moisture is available; reduce the number of rejected clumps around dunging areas; stop some docks and thistles reaching seed; and make it easier to see bare patches, holes and emerging weeds.Topping does not solve overgrazing, compacted gateways, poor drainage or a nutrient imbalance. If the same parts of the field repeatedly become bare while others grow rank, adjust the grazing plan as well as cutting the grass.Walk the paddock before you mowInspect the whole area on foot first. Look for rabbit holes, stones, discarded baler twine, damaged fencing and poisonous plants. Pay particular attention to ragwort. Ragwort remains toxic when cut and dried, when it may be easier for horses to eat, so it should be removed safely and never left in or beside the grazing. Deal with docks, thistles and poisonous plants before they set seed. Image supplied by Suregrow.Docks and thistles can be cut before they seed, but repeated topping alone may not remove established perennial roots. Where a herbicide is needed, use a product approved for the situation, follow its label exactly and observe every grazing exclusion period. A qualified paddock contractor can help where identification, timing or application is uncertain.Avoid scalping dry summer grassHot, dry weather pushes grass into survival mode. Growth slows, soil moisture falls and a very short cut exposes more ground to heat. If the field is already brown, brittle or slow to recover, delay non-essential cutting and concentrate on reducing grazing pressure. Rest the driest area where another paddock is available. Use temporary fencing to protect recovering sections. Avoid repeatedly grazing down to the base of the plant. Move water or feeding points if one patch is being heavily worn. Keep machinery off ground that is so dry it will be damaged or so wet it will rut.After rain, reassess rather than cutting automatically. A modest topping may be helpful once active growth resumes, but give weak areas time to produce enough leaf to recover.Could mixed grazing help?Where land, fencing and livestock management allow, sheep may graze some of the grass horses reject and can help create a more even sward. This is optional rather than essential. Stocking density, parasite control, water, fencing and the nutritional needs of every species still need to be planned properly. Topping remains a practical option for horse owners without access to sheep.Should you fertilise after topping?Fertiliser should answer a genuine soil and grass requirement, not simply follow the mower. In a dry spell, nutrients cannot be used efficiently by an inactive sward. Wait for a suitable moisture window and follow the current product label, application rate and timing.Suregrow Fertiliser is formulated for horse and pony paddocks and uses slow-release nutrients to support sustained growth and a denser sward. The manufacturer lists a spring and summer application rate of four to five 20kg bags per acre from early March to late July. Rain or heavy dew helps the pellets dissolve and move into the soil. Do not apply simply because the calendar says July if the grass is severely heat-stressed or the label conditions are not met.For seed, fertiliser and paddock-repair options, browse the equestrian grass seed and fertiliser collection.Your July paddock checklist Walk the field and remove hazards before using machinery. Remove ragwort safely, including the roots, and keep all cut plants away from horses. Top coarse seedheads and rejected clumps only where conditions suit. Avoid scalping grass during hot or dry weather. Rest thin areas and use temporary fencing to spread grazing pressure. Check troughs, gateways and shade as part of the same field walk. Apply fertiliser only at the stated rate and timing, with suitable moisture and label conditions.For the wider horse-care picture, including hydration, shade and managing grazing intake, see our summer grazing guide for horses. As July turns into August, use our late-summer paddock recovery checklist to plan the next stage.

A man has lost his appeal against multiple animal welfare convictions, which involved 13 horses and ponies, including a collapsed foal (pictured above).Henry Brewer, 57, of Esholt Lane, Shipley, was originally convicted on 26 March 2025 following a trial, after which he lodged an appeal against both his conviction and sentence.The appeal hearing took place between 1 and 3 September at Bradford Crown Court, but a District Judge and bench ultimately dismissed the appeal.In the prosecution brought by the RSPCA, Brewer was found guilty of seven animal welfare offences four counts of causing unnecessary suffering to five horses and three counts of failing to meet the needs of 13 horses. The animals were kept across three locations: Old Hollins Hill and Park Lane in Baildon, and a third site in Esholt.Brewer received a 14-week prison sentence, suspended for 12 months, and a 10-year disqualification from owning equines. Additionally, he was ordered to complete 100 hours of unpaid work, a 10-day Rehabilitation Activity Requirement, and pay court costs but he went onto appeal the conviction.Removal of horsesThe court heard that the investigation began in January 2023 when the RSPCA was contacted with concerns about horses kept by Brewer. Several visits from the charitys welfare officers followed, observing the horses to have limited water and hay, and officers were concerned about the body condition of some of the horses, leaving a notice for improvement.After attending the two sites in Baildon on 18 January 2023 with police and a vet, three horses including one young foal, were removed from Old Hollins Hill due to concerns for being underweight.Regular follow-up visits revealed continuing welfare issues and a lack of hay. Attempts to work with Brewer were not successful, leading to the RSPCA issuing warning notices for a number of the remaining horses.Later on 6 March 2023, RSPCA officers along with police and local authority workers attended the site in Esholt, where a nine month old skewbald colt was discovered collapsed in a stable. The colt had a body condition score of just one out of a possible five (with zero being emaciated and five being obese, and three being ideal). There was no bedding on the floor, which was uneven and made of bricks and concrete.Police removed the colt from Esholt, along with further horses from Old Hollins Hill due to welfare concerns, and placed the animals into the care of the RSPCA.Charges upheldThe poor body conditions of some of the horses in this case were very obvious to see, said a specialist equine vet who examined the horses, in their witness statement. They were visually in varying degrees of very poor condition. The owner had been previously warned by the RSPCA Inspector about providing supplementary forage at all times for the horses and to improve body conditions.They added that in their opinion, if the horses had been left in the field and not removed by the RSPCA, it is likely that their conditions would have worsened, and that Brewer had stated to them that he believed the condition of the horses to be fine.Following deliberation, the bench concluded there was substantial evidence to uphold all seven charges against Brewer.This was a very upsetting case for our rescuers to investigate, said an RSPCA spokesperson after the conclusion of the appeal hearing. Seeing this number of horses, including a foal, being let down by their owner, who continued to fail to provide them with suitable care despite advice and notices from us, was frustrating and very sad.The horses made good progress under the care of the RSPCA specialist equine facilities, and in addition three foals were born to already in foal mares. Sadly four of the ponies were put to sleep by a vet due to poor health, but others have gone on to make good recoveries, and some have already found loving new homes.Images by the RSPCAMore from Your HorseHow to provide a stabled horse with the three Fs (and why its so important that you do)7 ways to enrich your horses environmentHow to tell if a horse is happyLacking hacking motivation? These three ideas will helpThe post Owner loses appeal against welfare convictions in very upsetting case appeared first on Your Horse.