A June paddock can look full while quietly losing quality. As grass matures, leafy growth may give way to tall seedheads, tougher stems and patches that horses repeatedly reject.At the same time, a warm dry spell can slow fresh growth very quickly. June management is therefore a balancing act: keep the sward useful without grazing it into the ground, and intervene only when the grass, soil and weather make the job worthwhile.Look beyond how much grass you can seeDo not assess the paddock from total height alone. Walk through it and look at the proportion of leafy grass, coarse stems, seedheads, rejected areas and bare ground. Check whether horses are repeatedly returning to the same short patches while taller grass remains untouched elsewhere.This pattern can create the illusion of plenty while the usable grazing is shrinking. It can also put the most frequently grazed plants under pressure. A simple map or weekly photographs can help you decide whether to rotate, rest or top an area rather than reacting to the overall colour of the field.Keep grazing controlled, but do not overgrazeMeasured rotation can help keep grass in a more actively growing, leafy stage. Move horses before the preferred areas are repeatedly bitten down to the base, and allow enough recovery time before they return. Where growth is slowing, lengthen the rest period or reduce pressure rather than asking the sward to recover at the same speed.Grass availability and nutritional value are different issues. A horse that needs restricted intake may still require carefully managed access when the field is growing strongly. Monitor weight and body condition and review the plan with a vet or equine nutrition professional where laminitis or metabolic disease is a concern. See our guide to grass changes and laminitis risk for more detail.Manage seedheads before the paddock becomes coarseHorses often leave mature stems and seedheads, particularly around dunging areas. If grazing alone is not keeping the field even, topping selected areas can remove coarse material and create a more uniform starting point for regrowth.Only cut where conditions suit. Mowing a dry, stressed paddock too tightly removes leaf area the plant needs for recovery and exposes more soil to heat. Walk the field first, remove poisonous plants and hazards, and avoid leaving cut ragwort or other toxic material where horses can reach it.Our guide to topping a horse paddock in summer covers cutting decisions, weed checks and dry-weather precautions in more detail.Protect grass when early summer turns dryWhen growth slows, protect the leaf and ground cover that remain. The right response will depend on the land and number of horses, but useful options include: resting the driest or most heavily grazed section; using temporary fencing to spread pressure more evenly; moving water or feeding points where one route is being badly worn; providing suitable forage if grazing no longer meets the horse's needs; and delaying non-essential mowing, harrowing or fertiliser until conditions improve.Fresh water, shade, fly control and the horse's overall diet still matter alongside the grass itself. Our summer grazing guide for horses covers those wider care points.Deal with weeds before they set seedThin ground and repeatedly rejected areas give weeds room to establish. Identify the plant before deciding whether to dig, cut or treat it. Docks and thistles may be stopped from seeding by timely cutting, but established roots often need a longer plan. Avoid spraying simply because weeds are visible: hot, dry conditions can reduce treatment effectiveness, and every herbicide has its own application and grazing instructions.Ragwort needs separate care because it remains poisonous when cut and dried. Remove it safely, keep every part away from horses and forage, and dispose of it in line with current guidance.Time Suregrow fertiliser around need and moistureFertiliser is most useful where the soil and sward need the nutrients and the grass is actively able to respond. It should not be a routine follow-up to every grazing or topping job. If the paddock is drought-stressed or the cause of weak growth is unknown, wait and investigate first.Suregrow Fertiliser is formulated for horse and pony paddocks. Its slow-release nutrients are intended to support steady regrowth, root development and a denser sward rather than a sudden flush. The manufacturer's current spring and summer rate is four to five 20kg bags per acre between early March and late July.Apply it evenly, follow the current bag label and choose a suitable moisture window. Rainfall or heavy dew helps the pellets dissolve and move into the soil. If there is no rain forecast and the grass has stopped growing, applying immediately is unlikely to be the best use of the product.For paddock grass seed and fertiliser options, browse our horse grass seed and fertiliser collection.Your June horse paddock checklist Check how much of the field is leafy and usable, not just its total height. Rotate or rest areas before preferred patches are grazed bare. Top only where seedheads or rejected growth justify it and conditions are suitable. Protect residual cover if hot, dry weather slows growth. Identify weeds and act before they flower or set seed. Remove ragwort and all cut material safely. Apply fertiliser only where there is a genuine need and enough moisture for grass to respond.A useful June paddock is not necessarily the neatest-looking one. The priority is a resilient sward, safe grazing and enough flexibility to respond when the weather changes.

May is often the point when a horse paddock changes gear. Longer days and warmer soil can turn slow spring growth into a surplus within a surprisingly short time.The aim is not simply to grow as much grass as possible. Good May management keeps useful grass leafy, gives worn areas a chance to recover and avoids creating more grazing than a horse can safely use. A weekly field walk is usually more valuable than following a fixed calendar, because soil, weather, stocking density and individual horses all change what the paddock needs.Start with a weekly paddock walkWalk the whole field rather than judging it from the gate. Look at both the grass and the way the horses are using it: Are some areas being grazed very short while others are becoming tall and stemmy? Are gateways, troughs or favourite tracks becoming bare or compacted? Have earlier repairs established evenly, or are there still thin patches? Are docks, thistles, ragwort or other unwanted plants beginning to appear? Is the soil moist enough for seed or fertiliser to be useful?Taking a few photographs from the same points each week makes changes easier to spot. It also helps distinguish a short-lived flush after rain from sustained growth that needs a change in grazing management.Balance grazing with recoveryFast growth does not automatically mean unrestricted turnout will suit every horse. Good doers, native types and horses with a history of laminitis may need carefully controlled access even when the field looks ideal. Monitor body condition, crests, hoof comfort and the amount of grass actually being eaten. Our guide to laminitis risk and changing grass explains the wider horse-health considerations.Where space allows, divide the field so one section can rest while another is grazed. Temporary electric fencing can make rotation or strip grazing more practical, provided the fence is correctly installed, clearly visible and suited to the horses using it.Avoid allowing every section to be grazed down to bare soil. Grass needs enough leaf to keep growing, and exposed ground is more vulnerable to weeds, compaction and summer drought. Equally, leaving the whole paddock untouched can allow mature stems and seedheads to replace the softer leafy growth horses tend to select.Use a harrow for a clear reasonHarrowing can break up dead material, level minor surface disturbance and open a dense mat so light and air reach the base of the sward. It should not be an automatic May job, however. Ground that is too wet can be damaged by machinery, while harrowing horse droppings in cool or damp conditions may spread parasite larvae across a wider grazing area.Continue regular poo-picking and fit any harrowing into a considered parasite-control and resting plan. If manure is to be spread, horses should be removed and the timing, weather and rest period should be appropriate. Ask your vet, suitably qualified parasite adviser or paddock contractor if you are unsure.Repair thin areas while moisture remainsEarly May can still offer a useful opportunity to overseed small bare or sparse patches before the soil dries. Seed needs good contact with the soil, consistent moisture and protection from grazing and traffic while it establishes. Simply scattering seed into long grass or returning horses immediately is unlikely to produce an even repair. Identify why the patch became bare before reseeding it. Relieve severe compaction or drainage problems where necessary. Choose a seed mixture intended for horse paddocks and the conditions on the site. Keep horses off the repaired area until the new plants are well rooted.Browse our horse grass seed and fertiliser range for paddock-repair options.Keep weeds from gaining spaceA thick, healthy sward is one of the best long-term defences against weeds, because it leaves less bare soil for unwanted plants to colonise. Deal with isolated weeds before they flower and set seed, but identify the plant before choosing a control method. Digging, repeated cutting and herbicide treatment are not interchangeable, and established perennial roots may require a longer-term plan.Remove poisonous plants safely and keep all pulled or cut material away from horses and forage. If using a herbicide, select one approved for the situation, follow the label exactly and observe every grazing exclusion period.Does the paddock need Suregrow fertiliser?May grass can use nutrients quickly, but visible growth alone does not prove that more fertiliser is needed. Soil pH, nutrient status, drainage, compaction and grazing pressure all affect performance. A soil test is the best starting point where the cause of poor growth is unclear.Suregrow Fertiliser is a slow-release product formulated for horse and pony paddocks. It supplies nitrogen, phosphorus and sulphur to support sustained grass growth, root development and a denser sward. The manufacturer's current spring and summer guidance is four to five 20kg bags per acre, applied from early March to late July.Spread it as evenly as possible and follow the current bag label. Rainfall or heavy dew helps the pellets dissolve, so do not apply simply because it is May if the ground is dry and no useful moisture is expected. Fertiliser is also unlikely to solve a field that is being continually overgrazed or where soil pH is preventing efficient nutrient uptake.Your May horse paddock checklist Walk the field weekly and photograph recurring problem areas. Adjust grazing before short patches become bare or tall areas turn coarse. Monitor horses closely as grass availability and quality change. Poo-pick regularly and use a harrow only as part of a suitable plan. Overseed small thin areas while moisture and resting time are available. Identify and control weeds before they set seed. Use soil information and current label instructions before applying fertiliser.As growth moves towards early summer, continue with our June horse paddock care checklist for seedheads, topping decisions and dry-weather management.

Premier Equine Journal Saddle RoomMerino wool saddle pads: what matters beneath the saddle.Natural softness, moisture management and temperature-regulating fibre properties, combined with technical saddle-pad construction. Here is how to choose the right Merino pad for your horse and saddle.In this guide What is it? Benefits Why PE? Half pad or half-lined? Compare PE designs Merino vs fleece How to choose QuestionsMerino wool saddle pads -Riders choose it for natural softness, breathability, moisture management and temperature-regulating fibre properties.The wool is only one part of the decision. Cut, thickness, lining coverage and saddle fit matter just as much.In shortChoose the correct cut for your saddle first.Decide whether you need a full saddle pad or a separate half pad.Compare lining, thickness, grip and airflow features next.Use the complete setup when checking saddle fit.01 Why Merino?What are the benefits of Merino wool saddle pads?Merino wool is part of the complete pad. Quilting, filling, binding and cut also affect how the pad sits beneath the saddle.Soft contactMerino fibres are fine and flexible. This gives the wool a soft feel where it sits against the horse.Moisture managementWool naturally absorbs moisture within its fibres, while Premier Equine Merino pads combine this benefit with model-specific fillings, mesh and other technical layers.Temperature managementMerino is a naturally active fibre. Its structure helps manage moisture and heat as conditions change, which is one reason wool is widely used in performance textiles.Natural resilienceWool has a naturally crimped structure. This helps the fibre spring back after compression and gives it a resilient feel.Useful across different routinesMerino designs are suitable for schooling, hacking and competition, with the ideal choice depending on your horse, saddle and preferred construction.Start with fit. Then choose the material and features that support the way you ride.02 The PE differenceWhy are Premier Equine Merino saddle pads different?The difference is not simply that the pad contains wool. Premier Equine combines Grade 1 Merino wool with saddle-specific shaping and technical layers, so the natural fibre is part of a complete system beneath the saddle.Real MerinoGrade 1 wool, not a fleece lookalikeCore Premier Equine Merino designs use Grade 1 Merino wool. On the European range, the wool is knitted onto cotton yarn, giving a real wool contact layer without attached skin.Designed around the saddleHigh-wither shaping and a considered spine profilePE Merino pads use high-wither shaping and a developed spine design. The aim is a cleaner profile through the wither and a larger Merino contact area beneath the saddle.Moisture managementNatural fibre plus wicking constructionMerino manages moisture within the fibre. PE then combines it with wicking fill and, on selected models, AirTech mesh to help move moisture through the complete pad.Protection where it works hardestGirth protection and model-specific technologySelected PE pads add durable girth protection, silicone anti-slip sections or Airtechnology shockproof layers. You can choose the construction around the job your horse and saddle need.Practical by designTechnical performance without making the pad difficult to live with.The Merino designs featured in this guide are machine washable at 30C and dry naturally. That matters for a product used against sweat and hair several times a week.Material science: Woolmark describes Merino wool as naturally breathable, moisture managing and temperature regulating. Those are properties of the fibre itself. The performance of a finished saddle pad also depends on its construction, thickness and fit. Read more about the wool fibre.03 ConstructionHow should you compare Merino saddle pads?Two Merino saddle pads can look similar but feel very different in use. Check three things before you choose.01 / CUTMatch the saddleA GP/jump pad and a dressage pad are shaped differently. Choose the correct cut before comparing colour or finish.02 / LININGCheck where the wool sitsLook at the underside. A half-lined saddle square and a separate half pad place the wool in different ways.03 / FEATURESChoose a useful extraGrip, mesh, wicking fill or a satin outer should answer a real need in your setup.04 Know the differenceWhat is the difference between a Merino half pad and a half-lined saddle pad?The names sound similar, but they describe different products. The difference matters because it changes the amount of padding beneath the saddle.Separate layerMerino wool half padA half pad is a compact layer that sits beneath the saddle panels. Adding one changes the overall thickness under the saddle.Full saddle squareHalf-lined Merino saddle padThis is a full saddle square with Merino wool covering part of the underside. Half-lined refers to the lining coverage.Fit point: if you add a half pad or change the thickness beneath the saddle, include that setup when your saddle fitter checks the fit.05 The PE editWhich Premier Equine Merino saddle pad should you choose?These three GP/jump designs use Grade 1 Merino wool but have different outer fabrics and technical features. Use the difference between them to narrow your choice.Choose European ifYou want a classic cotton constructionIt combines a cotton outer and underside with a Merino wool half lining. It is a clear starting point for everyday or competition use.View European Choose Atlantis ifYou want satin with AirTech meshAtlantis combines a quilted satin outer, Merino wool half lining and AirTech mesh lining.View Atlantis Choose Capella ifYou want satin with added gripCapella adds a silicone gel print beneath the saddle to its satin and Merino construction.View Capella Cotton MerinoEuropeanClassic cotton construction with a high-wither GP/jump cut and Merino wool half lining.Shop European Satin Merino MeshAtlantisA polished satin design with Merino wool half lining and AirTech mesh on the underside.Shop Atlantis Satin Merino GripCapellaA satin Merino design with a silicone gel print in the saddle-facing section for added grip.Shop Capella 06 Material choiceMerino wool vs synthetic fleece: what is the difference?Both can create a soft surface beneath the saddle, but they are different materials. This is where the Premier Equine proposition becomes clearer.Premier Equine MerinoNatural fibre + technical constructionSelected PE pads use Grade 1 Merino wool as the wool component, then add features such as wicking fill, AirTech mesh, anti-slip grip or shockproof layers depending on the model.Merino blendsNatural and synthetic fibres togetherSome products on the market mix Merino with man-made fibres to change durability, drying time or care. Always check the fibre composition rather than relying on the word Merino alone.Synthetic fleeceDesigned to imitate the feel of woolArtificial fleece can be soft and easy to maintain, but it is a different fibre system. If natural Merino is important to you, check the material specification before buying.What makes PE a strong choice: the proposition is not Merino at any cost. It is real Merino combined with a range of purpose-led constructions, from cotton everyday pads to satin, anti-slip and Airtechnology Shockproof options.07 Buying guideHow do you choose the right Merino wool saddle pad?Start with the saddle. Then choose the pad format and features that suit your horse and routine.For a GP or jumping saddle Choose a GP/jump cut. Check the depth, panel coverage and wither shape against your saddle.For a dressage saddle Choose the straighter dressage shape and check that the pad sits neatly beneath the longer flap.For a separate half pad Check the dimensions and thickness. Treat the half pad as part of the full saddle setup.For a close contact saddle Compare the cut, wool coverage and technical features across the close contact Merino range.For a pony saddle Use the actual saddle and pad measurements. Do not choose from the ponys height alone.To compare the full Merino range Browse saddle pads, numnahs and half pads across Premier Equines Merino collection.Choose by needWhen another saddle pad may suit the job better.Merino does not need to be the first feature you choose. Start with the main problem you want the pad to solve.If saddle movement is the priority Compare anti-slip designs and check the saddle fit if movement continues.If you want a shockproof construction Look at AirTech Shockproof pads and compare the lower layers and pad thickness.If you want a simple everyday pad A cotton GP/jump pad may be the more direct choice for a straight forward daily setup.08 Fit & careHow should a Merino saddle pad fit and how do you care for it?Keep the pad smooth beneath the saddleThe pad should sit flat, with suitable coverage around the saddle. Lift it into the Pommel so it is not pulled tightly over the withers.Check the underside after ridingLet the pad dry fully before storing it and remove loose hair and dirt.Wash to the product instructionsThe European, Atlantis and Capella models featured here are listed as machine washable at 30C and should be dried naturally. Always check the care label on your own pad.Before you ride60-second tack-up checkCheck the underside for dirt, dampness or worn areas.Position the pad smoothly beneath the saddle.Lift the pad into the gullet around the withers.Check that the saddle sits inside the pad edges.Secure the straps without pulling the pad out of position.09 Quick answersMerino wool saddle pad questions riders often ask.Is Merino wool good for saddle pads?Merino is popular because it feels soft, has natural resilience and can absorb moisture within the fibre. The finished pad still needs the right cut, thickness and fit.Is a Merino saddle pad better than a cotton saddle pad?It depends on what you need. Merino adds a wool contact layer. A cotton pad can be a simpler everyday choice. Fit and construction should guide the decision.Can a Merino half pad change saddle fit?Yes. A half pad adds thickness beneath the saddle. If you add one, include it when the saddle fit is checked.What is a high-wither saddle pad?A high-wither design has a stiffer shape at the front of the pad, to prevent any rubbing and so it has equal pressure distribution through out the entire pad.Which Merino pad is best for jumping?Start with a GP/jump or close contact cut. Then compare the construction. European uses cotton, Atlantis adds satin and AirTech mesh, while Capella adds a silicone grip feature.How often should you wash a Merino saddle pad?There is no single schedule for every horse. Brush away loose hair after use, let the pad dry, and wash it when sweat and dirt build up. Follow the care label for the specific product.Premier Equine Merino CollectionFind the pad that fits the way you ride.Explore Merino wool saddle pads, numnahs and half pads for GP/jump, dressage and pony saddles.Shop Merino wool saddle pads

Dried-grass feeds often attract extra attention when grazing is poor or forage supplies are under pressure. Their usefulness is not limited to a shortage, though. A simple grass chaff can add fibre to a bucket feed, encourage chewing and provide a familiar grass-based ingredient throughout the year.Dodson & Horrell Just Grass is a molasses-free, precision-chopped dried grass feed. This guide explains what is in it, how its current nutritional figures compare and how Dodson & Horrell recommends feeding it.What is Dodson & Horrell Just Grass?Dodson & Horrell lists one ingredient for Just Grass: dried grass. There is no added molasses, and the product is supplied as a fibrous chop rather than a cube, mix or mash.The manufacturer explains that the length and fibrous texture encourage chewing and saliva production. This makes it a useful way to add structure to a bucket feed. However, it should not automatically be treated as a complete feed or vitamin and mineral balancer simply because it is made from grass. The whole ration still needs to meet the horse's nutritional requirements.For more background on why forage and fibrous feeds matter, read our guide to the role of fibre in a horse's diet.Current nutritional analysisDodson & Horrell currently publishes the following typical analysis for Just Grass. Recipes and analyses can change, so always check the latest bag label before feeding. Nutrient Typical analysis Crude protein 8.5% Crude fibre 34% Oil 2.4% Sugar 6% Estimated digestible energy 8MJ/kg Molasses-free does not mean sugar-free. The grass itself contains naturally occurring sugar, so the published sugar figure and the needs of the individual horse matter more than the absence of added molasses.When might a dried grass chaff be useful?Just Grass may be considered when you want to: add a high-fibre chop to a bucket feed; encourage more chewing than a meal made up only of cubes or mix; use a simple grass-based product with no added molasses; provide slow-release energy from fibre; or add variety when grazing quality or availability has fallen.Its suitability still depends on the horse's body condition, workload, forage, grazing and the rest of the ration. A good doer needing tight calorie control has different requirements from a horse in work that struggles to maintain condition.Can Just Grass replace hay or haylage?The supplier email that prompted this guide referred to increased demand during a difficult forage season. That was a stock update, not an instruction to replace the horse's forage.Dodson & Horrell's current feeding directions say Just Grass should be fed with free access to forage. The manufacturer also specifies a minimum daily forage intake of 1.5kg per 100kg of bodyweight. Unless your vet or an equine nutritionist has designed a different ration for a horse with a particular problem, do not assume a dried grass chaff can simply replace all long-stem hay or haylage.How much Dodson & Horrell Just Grass should you feed?The current manufacturer guideline is 50600g per 100kg of bodyweight per day, fed alongside free access to forage. Divide the daily amount between at least two or three meals. Horse or pony weight Daily Just Grass range Minimum daily forage 200kg 100g1.2kg 3kg 400kg 200g2.4kg 6kg 500kg 250g3kg 7.5kg 600kg 300g3.6kg 9kg One level Stubbs scoop holds approximately 0.2kg of Just Grass, but weighing the portion is more accurate. The broad feeding range allows for very different horses and uses, so the appropriate amount should be chosen in the context of the complete diet rather than by bodyweight alone.Is Just Grass suitable for a horse with laminitis?Do not choose a feed for a laminitis-prone horse solely because it is molasses-free. Just Grass has a current typical sugar level of 6%, and an individual horse may need a carefully controlled intake of sugar, starch and calories.If your horse has laminitis, insulin dysregulation, Equine Metabolic Syndrome (EMS) or another condition requiring dietary control, ask your vet or a suitably qualified equine nutritionist before feeding it. Our guide to laminitis risk and changing grass explains why grazing and the whole ration need to be considered together.Introduce it gradually and monitor the horseIntroduce any new feed gradually, normally over at least 714 days unless your vet or nutritionist advises otherwise. Keep fresh drinking water available, store the bag in a cool, dry place and monitor body condition, droppings and appetite as the ration changes.Just Grass is sold in a 12.5kg bag. You can buy Dodson & Horrell Just Grass from Chestnut Mill, browse more Dodson & Horrell horse feeds or compare our full range of horse chaff and fibre feeds.Always follow the latest instructions on the bag. For a horse with a health condition, unexplained weight change or difficulty chewing forage, obtain veterinary and professional nutrition advice before making significant dietary changes.

Laminitis is an extremely painful condition affecting the tissues that support the pedal bone inside the hoof. It can develop quickly, and the early signs are not always dramatic. Knowing what is normal for your horse and acting on small changes can make an important difference.If you suspect laminitis, call your vet immediately. Laminitis should always be treated as an emergency. Do not wait for the horse to develop the well-known rocked-back stance and do not force a reluctant horse to walk.Early warning signs of laminitisSome horses show several signs at once, while others initially display only a subtle change in movement or behaviour. Warning signs can include:a strong or bounding digital pulse at the back of the fetlock;a shortened, stiff or pottery stride;reluctance to walk, turn tightly or pick up a foot;greater discomfort on hard or stony ground and a preference for softer surfaces;repeatedly shifting weight from one foot to another;standing unusually, sometimes with the forefeet placed further forward;spending more time lying down;abnormal heat around the hoof wall or coronet; anda change in behaviour or temperament that may indicate pain.The classic stancerocking back to take weight off the front feetoccurs in fewer than half of diagnosed cases according to the British Horse Society (BHS). Hoof warmth on its own does not prove that a horse has laminitis either. A vet needs to assess the complete picture.What to do immediatelyCall your vet. Describe every change you have noticed, when it began and whether more than one foot appears affected.Do not force movement. Unnecessary walking can cause further damage to already weakened tissues inside the hoof.Move the horse only when it is safe. The BHS advises moving a horse that can walk to a nearby stable or shelter. If the horse cannot walk, keep them comfortable where they are, restrict movement and access to grass, and wait for veterinary instructions.Prepare a deep bed if the horse is stabled. The BHS recommends a deep bed, ideally shavings, to help support the feet while awaiting the vet.Do not improvise treatment. Give medication, apply hoof supports or make sudden dietary changes only under veterinary direction.When speaking to the vet, mention any previous laminitis, diagnosed or suspected Equine Metabolic Syndrome (EMS), Pituitary Pars Intermedia Dysfunction (PPID or Cushing's disease), recent illness, retained placenta, injury to another limb, medication, changes in grazing or accidental access to feed. This information may help the vet assess urgency and possible causes.How to prepare the stableIf the horse can be moved safely and the vet wants them stabled, the aim is to minimise unnecessary movement and provide a supportive, comfortable surface. Follow the vet's instructions for the individual horse, but useful preparation may include:creating a deep, level bed across the area the horse will use.removing bare or thin patches that could leave the feet unsupported;keeping the bedding dry, clean and free from ammonia build-up;placing water and prescribed forage where they can be reached without unnecessary movement;keeping the stable calm, well ventilated and free from avoidable disturbance; andmaking sure everyone caring for the horse understands the movement, feeding and medication instructions.Do not encourage a sore horse to move so that the stable can be tidied. Ask the vet how to manage the bed when strict confinement or minimal movement is required.Why shavings may be recommendedA deep shavings bed can settle around the foot and provide cushioning beneath the sole and frog. It also gives the horse a comfortable surface for lying down. The bed needs to remain level and sufficiently deep rather than becoming thin, compacted or uneven.Bedmax Shavings are purpose-made pine shavings containing a mixture of large, medium and smaller flakes. Bedmax designs this structure to create a resilient, supportive bed while allowing moisture to move away from the surface. The shavings are dried to a controlled moisture level and dust-extracted during production.Bedmax bedding does not treat laminitis and is not a substitute for veterinary or farriery care. Its role is to help create the stable environment prescribed for the horse. Follow the current Bedmax set-up instructions as well as any different requirements given by your vet.Our guide to creating a comfortable stable during box rest covers bedding, hygiene, ventilation and routine in more detail. You can also compare Bedmax with other options in our horse bedding collection.What happens after the vet arrives?The vet will assess the horse's posture, movement, digital pulses and response to hoof pressure. X-rays may be needed to examine the position of the pedal bone. Treatment can include pain relief, box rest, dietary management and hoof support, with the vet and farrier working together.Finding the underlying cause is an important part of reducing the chance of another episode. Hormonal conditions such as EMS and PPID are strongly associated with laminitis, but inflammatory illness and abnormal weight-bearing can also be responsible. Management therefore needs to be based on the individual diagnosis rather than assuming that grass was the only cause.For longer-term prevention, read our separate guide to laminitis risk and seasonal grass changes. If a suitable diet has already been discussed with your vet or nutritionist, our Pure Feed guide for laminitis-prone horses compares three different feeding formats and their daily feeding rates.Frequently asked questionsShould I walk a horse with suspected laminitis?No. Do not force a reluctant horse to walk. Call your vet immediately and follow their instructions about movement or transport.Does a warm hoof mean laminitis?Not by itself. Hoof temperature can vary normally, but unusual heat accompanied by a strong digital pulse, altered gait, weight shifting or reluctance to turn requires prompt veterinary advice.Can a farrier diagnose laminitis?Suspected laminitis requires immediate veterinary assessment. The farrier can play an essential part in hoof support and longer-term treatment, working with the vet after diagnosis.Can supportive bedding cure laminitis?No. A deep, stable bed may support comfort and the feet during veterinary treatment or prescribed box rest, but it cannot diagnose, prevent or cure laminitis.This article provides general information and is not a substitute for veterinary diagnosis or treatment. It was informed by the British Horse Society's laminitis guidance and Bedmax's supplier article on spring grass, laminitis and supportive bedding. If you suspect laminitis, contact your vet immediately.

Learn more about cellulitis in horses, which occurs when a subcutaneous bacterial infection gets out of hand.You walk out to catch your horse and bring him in for morning feed, but hes not at the gate. Hes standing a ways off, but as soon as he starts to move, its obvious something is very wrong.Hes significantly lame, reluctant to even put weight on his left hind leg, which is so swollen its almost double the normal size. Whats going on?Hes had some hard workouts this week. Could this just be stocking up?Cell phone in hand, you call your veterinarian and then slowly lead your hobbling horse into the barn.By the time the vet has come and gone, you have a diagnosis and a treatment plan.Cellulitis.Unlike stocking up, which usually occurs in both hind legs (or even all four legs) and goes away after exercise, cellulitis does not. Photo by Bob LangrishWhat is Cellulitis?A bacterial infection within the connective tissue beneath the skin, cellulitis is a serious and painful condition that must be addressed promptly so it doesnt progress and cause complications.Also referred to as septic cellulitis, the infection often occurs in one limbfrequently a hind legalthough it can develop anywhere on the body.Cellulitis is a soft tissue infection that is often due to a puncture wound. It can happen anywhere in the body, but most of the time, its in a leg, says Sam Crosby, DVM, whose equine veterinary practice is based in Arcadia, Okla. It can also be introduced by a systemic infection, such as an infection of the bloodstream.Because cellulitis can develop rapidly, at first glance, it may appear that the horse has a fractureespecially because the considerable swelling is usually accompanied by dramatic lameness.The horse often doesnt want to put weight on the leg and can be a 3 to 5 [out of 5] on the lameness scale, he adds, noting that horses with cellulitis may react painfully just to having the limb touched.In addition to obvious lameness when cellulitis is in a leg, other clinical signs include: Marked swelling (stovepipe appearance if in leg) Heat in the swollen limb Very painful to the touch Pitting edema (when an indentation remains in the swollen spot after you press on the skin)In addition to marked lameness, a swelling or stovepipe appearance, generally in one hind leg, is a common clue that cellulitis is the cause. Photo by Bob LangrishDiagnosisIf your horse shows clinical signs of cellulitis, call your veterinarian promptly. While youre waiting for the vet to arrive, take your horses temperature to see if hes running a fever. You can also hose the swollen leg with cold water to offer some relief.The veterinarian will conduct a physical exam and will generally pull blood to run a complete blood count (CBC). A high white blood cell count indicates infection.We can also do a quick stall-side blood test called an SAA, says Crosby. This can be done on site and checks for inflammatory conditions, including infections. Vets often use both CBC and SAA test kits.If cellulitis is suspected, your horses veterinarian will run a complete blood count (CBC). A high white blood cell count indicates infection. Photo by GRUBRin/Adobe StockIf theres any question of a foreign body being involved, the veterinarian may also use radiography or ultrasound to take a deeper look at the affected area.It usually takes 12 hours or more to develop cellulitis, but it can also show up several days after an injury, he adds.Treating a Horse for CellulitisCellulitis is very painful for the horse, and you want to get the swelling down as quickly as possible because it can cause other problems if not treated, says Crosby.If allowed to progress without treatment, cellulitis can lead to skin ulceration, abscesses, tissue necrosis or even sepsis. Other complications can include inflammation of the lymph vessels (lymphangitis), which can cause permanent damage. Laminitis in the supporting limb has also occurred in severe cases of cellulitis.If a wound is discovered while examining the horse, the veterinarian may take a sample to culture and determine specific bacteria. But the first step is usually putting the horse on a course of broad-spectrum antibiotics to get the infection under control. This can also help stave off any secondary infection.Your veterinarian will also prescribe an anti-inflammatory like phenylbutazone (Bute) or flunixin (Banamine) to reduce inflammation and pain.In some cases when the condition is due to an infected wound, the veterinarian may need to address drainage and debriding of tissue.Its crucial to address the swelling caused by accumulated fluid. Hosing with cold water will help. Your veterinarian may recommend the use of poultice or a similar product to help draw out fluid. In addition, youll likely be told to hand walk your horse multiple times a day, as movement helps reduce the swelling.Its crucial to address the swelling caused by accumulated fluid. Hosing with cold water will help. Photo by R. Andreas Klein/Adobe StockDont bandage the swollen limb unless specifically instructed by your veterinarian, or you may cause additional swelling.What Its NotTrue cellulitis is typically in one limb, says Crosby. If all four limbs are swollen, its more likely systemic, such as purpura hemorrhagica (PH). This happens when blood vessels become leaky after a respiratory infection like strangles or influenza. He adds that PH is a result of an improper immune response and isnt contagious.Cellulitis is also very different from stocking up, which occurs when fluid in the lower legs accumulates during a period of inactivity, such as being stalled overnight. This edema can involve both hind legs, both forelegs, or all four legs. The swelling is typically the same in all affected legs, which arent hot to the touch or painful. With stocking up, the swelling usually resolves quickly once the horse is exercised or turned out.Your vet will likely advise hand-walking your horse multiple times per day to help reduce swelling. Photo by Oger Ashford/Adobe StockCellulitis Prevention Unfortunately, once some horses have had cellulitis, they can have recurrent cases if they end up in a situation where bacteria is introduced under the skin again.To prevent cellulitis, its important to clean any wound or breaks in the skin promptly. Treat the area and keep it clean to avoid infection.Even if you arent riding, dont skip daily close observation of horses. Check legs and pick hooves every day. Run your hand up and down each leg to feel for any injuries that may not be immediately obvious. Beware of any small wounds, breaks in the skin, or hoof cracks that can allow entry for bacteria, and treat them accordingly.Scratches, dew poisoning, cracked heels, hoof abscesses, et cetera can all allow bacteria to enter beneath the skin, potentially setting off infection.Dont assume any cut is minor; it can become serious if it develops into cellulitis, cautions Crosby, who recently treated a bad case of cellulitis after a horse developed a subsolar abscess in the foot.Because cellulitis is caused by bacteria, stable management is important. This includes keeping stalls and turnout areas clean and dry, so horses arent routinely standing in moist, dirty, or muddy conditions. This article about cellulitis in horses appeared in the May/June 2025 issue of Horse Illustratedmagazine.Click here to subscribe!The post Cellulitis in Horses appeared first on Horse Illustrated Magazine.

Ireland enjoyed an outstanding 2026 FEI Jumping Nations Cup Youth Finals at Peelbergen, The Netherlands, after an incredible season with many victories and podium finishes throughout the series.Last weekend, the Irish Pony team were crowned champions, while the Junior and Young Rider teams both claimed bronze medals and the Children on Horses team finished third in the Challenge Cup.It was a hugely successful conclusion to the FEI Youth Nations Cup season, with Irish teams competing for medals across all four age categories and demonstrating the depth of talent within the countrys youth jumping programme.The Irish Pony squad of Robbie Sheehan with Daytona, Jack Dore with K-Little Hero, Ella Rush with Galaxy V, Charlie Flynn with HK Zena and Ted Fagan with Ballyfore Rosie, produced the standout performance of the weekend to win the FEI Jumping Nations Cup Youth Final.Ireland completed the Pony Final on a perfect score of zero faults, becoming the only team to finish without adding a penalty to their score to secure victory. The Netherlands finished second on four faults, with Great Britain third, also on four.Denis Flannelly and Irelands Pony squad on the podium after their brilliant win in Peelbergen The achievement was complemented by bronze-medal finishes for the Irish Junior and Young Rider teams in their respective Finals on Sunday, while the Children on Horses squad finished third in Saturdays Challenge Cup.Horse Sport Ireland (HSI) Youth Jumping High Performance Manager, Denis Flannelly, said the results reflected not only the talent of the young athletes but also the strength of the wider HSI youth programme.He said: Its been an outstanding week for Irish youth jumping. Firstly, to have all four Irish teams qualify was a historic achievement, something I was extremely proud of as only the best teams in the world qualify for the final. To finish on the podium across the four categories is a fantastic achievement, and everyone involved should be incredibly proud of their success.The Pony team were exceptional in the Final. They had been building throughout the week and when it mattered most, they produced a superb performance to finish on a zero score and take gold. But equally, to see our Junior and Young Rider teams both make the podium, and our Children finish third in the Challenge Cup, shows the depth we have across the entire programme.These Finals are incredibly competitive as only the top 12 teams in each category qualify to jump here in Peelbergen. There is a huge amount of pressure on the riders. Unlike the European Championships, there is no individual category so this is all about team jumping. They have to ride for their teammates, and I was very impressed with how they supported each other and handled that pressure.There is a huge team behind these results the riders, horses, owners, parents, grooms, coaches and support staff and everyone deserves recognition. HSI has built a programme which puts a strong emphasis on team spirit, education and development, and we are continually looking at how we can improve.The talent coming through these four age groups is very encouraging. Our job now is to keep supporting these young athletes, give them the opportunities and experience they need as they progress and provides a clear pathway towards senior international competition.A great emphasis is placed on the European Championships each year, and rightly so. The Jumping Nations Cup Youth Finals, however, are also an incredibly important event and you can see by the make-up of the teams competing in Peelbergen just how important it was for the other nations.Id like to take this opportunity to thank Liz Brennan, who helps me run the programme; Chair of the selection committee, Sally Anne Tobin and my co-selector Denis Lynch. I must express my gratitude to all of the team in HSI, who have given tremendous support since my appointment as High Performance Youth Jumping Manager and trainer of these young athletes.Im now looking forward towards 2027.Irelands Pony squad had also been responsible for a series of excellent individual performances throughout the week. Sheehan won the Ponies Big Tour with Pjotr van de Groenheuvel in Thursdays opening competition, while Lucia Keane, competing as a team member in the Children on Horses category, won the Ponies Big Tour two-phase special with RDJW Merclov, with four Irish combinations finishing inside the top five including Keane herself in fourth on Clonbrock Against All Odds.Friday brought another Irish victory when Ted Fagan won the Ponies Big Tour with Kilkillahara Beauty, while Sheehan finished runner-up. Fagan and Kilkillahara Beauty then claimed another victory on Saturday, while the final day saw Charlie Flynn win the Ponies Big Tour two-phase special with Royal Remark 259.The Irish Junior team on the podium after winning bronzeThe Irish Junior team also produced a strong performance to take third place in Sundays FEI Jumping Nations Cup Youth Final.Isobel Sheehan with Athea Clover Trend, Brd Ryan with Cariati dElsendam Z, Annie Boland with Calisto Blanc and James Derwin with Amos L Z finished on a final score of six faults.Belgium took the gold medal on four faults, with Switzerland second on five, leaving Ireland just one time fault behind the silver-medal position in a tightly fought competition.The Irish Juniors had made an excellent start to the finals, finishing second in Thursdays opening qualifier on four faults. They followed that with another four-fault performance in Fridays second qualifier before producing the performance required to secure their place on the podium in Sundays Final.Irelands Young Riders also secured a place on the podium, themselves finishing third in a highly competitive Final.The team of Eoin Brennan with Augustus Z, Billy Sinnott with Macgyver, Alice Wachman with Killarney, Coen Williams with Dominante Z and Ben Walsh with Adastra Milo finished on eight faults.Irelands Young Riders with their medalsSweden took the title with a clear score, while France finished second on eight faults, edging Ireland on the combined team time. Irelands time was 228.85 seconds compared with Frances 227.49.The Irish team had finished fifth in Thursdays opening qualifier on eight faults before moving up to fourth in the second qualifier, again on eight. Their consistency across the week was rewarded with a podium finish in Sundays Final.There were also strong individual performances from the Irish Young Riders, with Ben Walsh and Adastra Milo finishing third in Thursdays Young Rider Big Tour 1.45m class before going one better with a second-place finish in Saturdays 1.45m two-phase special.There was also a fitting conclusion to the week for the Irish young athletes when Ruby Lily Gaines won the Junior Big Tour two-phase special with Royal Cornet MRO on Sunday, with Coen Williams taking second with Rolex vanT Schawijke to give Ireland an impressive one-two finish.The Irish Children on Horses team also enjoyed a highly successful week, finishing third in the Challenge Cup on Saturday.Charlotte Foley with Cillbhrid Excel, Ellie Sheane with Monbeg Hendricks, Blthnaid Murphy with Godiva Quality and Lucia Keane with Elia produced a superb performance in Thursdays opening qualifier, with all four riders jumping clear to put Ireland at the top of the standings.The standard was exceptionally high, with all of the leading teams completing the opening competition without a fault.While Fridays second qualifier proved more challenging for the Irish team, they regrouped for Saturdays Challenge Cup to secure third place.The result provided another podium finish for Ireland across the four age categories and further underlined the depth of talent emerging through the HSI youth programme.There were also individual highlights throughout the week, with Colm Widger and Jerenice Dysenbeeck Z finishing second in the Children Big Tour, while Blthnaid Murphy and Godiva Quality took joint third in Saturdays 1.25m two-phase special.The Children on Horses team of Blathnaid Murphy, Ellie Sheane, Colm Widger, Lucia Keane and Charlotte FoleyThe post Incredible Irish finish youth season in style with medals across the board appeared first on .

Ocala, FL The All for the Horses Expo, an all-equine industry expo, is set to return for a fifth year at World Equestrian Center Ocala February 19 to 21, 2027. The expo will be held in Indoor Arena 5 on Friday, February 19 and Saturday, February 20 from 9:30am to 4:30pm, and Sunday, February 21 from 9:30am to 2pm. The All for the Horses Expo brings together leading equestrian andSource

Irelands young horses, and their riders, have made an impressive start to the 2026 FEI WBFSH Jumping World Breeding Championships for Young Horses in Lanaken, with Irish combinations recording a series of top-class results and clear rounds across the five-, six- and seven-year-old divisions.The opening two days of competition in Belgium have seen Irish riders feature prominently across all three age categories, with Ireland recording victories in both the six- and seven-year-old second qualifiers, alongside numerous top-ten finishes and a significant number of clear rounds.The six-year-old division produced one of the standout Irish performances of the opening day, when Lauren Adams and Playboy ASJ took victory in Thursdays first qualifier.The combination jumped clear through both phases of the 1.35m competition, stopping the clock in 24.51 seconds in the second phase to take the win. Adams then completed an outstanding double clear on the podium, taking third place with BP Le Tara in 24.74 seconds, while Emily Moloney and Ukina also jumped double clear to finish fifth in 25.02 seconds.The Irish continued to make its mark in todays second six-year-old qualifier, with Niamh McEvoy and Doris V Z producing a clear round to finish an excellent second in 64.93 seconds.Doris V Z and Niamh McEvoy in action at the championships in Lanaken. Pic: SportfotMcEvoy also recorded another clear with Easy Peasy Indebus Z, finishing tenth in 67.43 seconds.There were further Irish clear rounds from Ethen Ahearne and BP Quarterback van T Veer, who finished sixth; Jack Ryan and Isla Flight, seventh; Stephen Gibbons and Umbrillio van het Kapelhof, eighth; Coen Williams and Parc Kesha WSH, 12th; Rhys Williams and Boreas KPCM Z, 15th; Kian Dore and Olga dEcaussinnes, 27th; Jenny Rankin and Kassie Devine Z, 29th; Sam Widger and BP Wishes, 33rd; Michael Pender and Cafe vd Berghoeve Z, 36th; and Rhys Williams and Codex Girl van Twelve Oaks Z, 47th.There was another Irish victory in this afternoons seven-year-old second qualifier, with David Simpson and Ocean producing the fastest clear round of the 1.40m competition to take the win in 68.17 seconds.Max Foley and HHS Lexington also delivered a clear round to finish sixth.Further Irish clear rounds came from Jessica Burke and Rials Varinjo in 18th, Niamh McEvoy and Jasmin dAriel in 26th, Jack Ryan and DSH Vigo in 33rd, Alexander Butler and Think Nice DC Z in 41st, and Conan Wright, who again produced clear rounds with both Oliva P. and I M Special Bella GB, finishing 37th and 43rd respectively.Max Foley and HHS Lexington impressed in Lanaken. Pic: SportfotWrights performance was particularly notable after his double clear in Thursdays opening seven-year-old qualifier, when he finished fifth with I M Special Bella GB and sixth with Oliva P.The five-year-old horses have also produced a strong showing from the Irish contingent.In the second qualifier, Irish clear rounds came from Conan Wright and Ranfinity, Alisha Vard and Romai, Niamh McEvoy and BP Bob Rock, Coen Williams and GLC Mr President, Gemma Phelan and Vibe of Picobello Z, Emma ODwyer and Louxor du Feu, Chloe Fagan, Sam Widger, Conan Wright and Elfhaban van Beek Z, Gemma Phelan and ABC Mayflower, Eddie Moloney and Soco Flex, and Michael Pender and HHS Lugano.The result provided further evidence of the depth of Irish young-horse production, with a number of combinations from the official Irish team among those faultlessly negotiating the Lanaken course.The performances underline the strength and depth of Irish representation at this years World Championships, with Irish Sport Horses featuring strongly across the five-, six- and seven-year-old categories.With the qualifying rounds now completed, attention turns to the next stages of the championships, with the Irish combinations at Zangersheide bidding for more success over the weekend.Participation by the Irish teams at the FEI WBFSH Jumping World Breeding Championships for Young Horses in Lanaken is funded by the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine under National Breeding Services.Jack Ryan and Isla Flight jumped clear for Ireland in Lanaken. Pic: SportfotThe post Irish horses in contention ahead of world championships weekend in Lanaken appeared first on .