Welcome to Barn Banter, the official podcast of Horse Illustrated. In Barn Banter episode 21, hosts Susan Friedlandand Horse Illustrated Editor In Chief Holly Caccamise talk all things BreyerFest, including Susans unboxing of childhood Breyers. Then, they talk with Amanda Delgado, owner of Athenian Lady, the 2024 BreyerFest Celebration Horse. Finally, they chat with Amanda Stevens, head trainer at the Humane Society of North Texas, about this months ASPCA Right Horse adoptable horse, Takoda.Click to listen on mobile.Listen to Barn Banter episode 21 now to hear about Amandas journey with Athenian Lady, and stay until the end to meet Takoda.Amanda Delgado, Owner of Athenian LadyAmanda Delgado and Athenian LadyAmanda Delgado is a lifelong equestrian who specializes in the rapidly growing discipline of western dressage. She graduated from St. Andrews University with a Bachelor of Arts in Equine Business Management and serves as an executive board member for the Western Dressage Association of America and is the president for the North Carolina Western Dressage Association.In 2015, she rescued her mare Athenian Lady. Overcoming Athenas dangerous temperament, injuries, and various health issues due to her neglect, Amanda trained Athena and has guided her to over 10 World Championship titles at the WDAA and PtHA World Shows in western dressage.Amanda currently owns and operates Olympus Equestrian on a small farm near Fort Liberty, N.C., where they specialize in western dressage and stock horse events. She prides herself on putting equine welfare first and teaching kind, correct horsemanship methods. She coaches, trains, and is a clinician all over the Carolinas. She currently holds her NCSU open show cards in the Western, Hunter, Saddleseat, and Gaited divisions and is working on her USEF Western Dressage r and AQHA Level 1 cards. Olympus Equestrian on Instagram (@olympusequestriannc)Takoda, Adoptable Horse of the MonthPhoto courtesy Humane Society of North TexasTakoda is a 23-year-old Quarter Horse cross available for adoption from the Humane Society of North Texas. He was a negotiated surrendered horse that HSNT rescued through a cruelty case last September, when he arrived in very poor condition with a body condition score of one. He also was blind in both eyes and needed to have his eyes removed.Takoda has since regained all of his strength and is healthy; he has had both eyes removed and is doing amazing. He is a beloved horse at the ranch and HSNT is so excited for him to find his forever home.Learn more about Takoda here.Susans Childhood BreyersAt the beginning of the episode, Susan tells us about some childhood Breyer models she found in her sisters basement. See below for the Breyers she revealed in her unboxing. 1 of 3 If youre also intrigued by the Chincoteague Pony Penning Week photo portfolio by Shelley Paulson, grab a copy of the July issue of Horse Illustrated.In addition to Barn Banter episode 21, you can check out all previous episodes of Horse Illustrateds podcasts.The post Barn Banter Episode 21 appeared first on Horse Illustrated Magazine.

Does your horse struggle with gastric ulcers? Learn how to identify this painful condition and how veterinarians might diagnose and treat it. Sponsored by SmartPak. The post SmartPak, The Horse Bring You Equine Gastric Health Awareness Month appeared first on The Horse.

Your saddle is likely to be the most expensive item of horse tack that you will buy, and its fit is one of the most important things you need to consider before getting on board. When saddle fit is correct, it leaves both horse and rider feeling secure and confident, and enables your horse to work at their best while giving you confidence that they are comfortable. A poorly balanced saddle can shift or sway, lacking the balance necessary for you to maintain an effective position, which in turn will affect the way your horse moves.A well-fitting saddle should distribute pressure equally across your horses back, but also help you maintain the correct shoulder-hip-heel line, with your weight carried evenly through both seat bones.Because your saddle has such a huge affect on both you as the rider and also on your horse,Your Horse recommends that you have the fit checked by a qualified saddle fitter at least once a year (ideally six monthly) and more often if you notice any changes in its fit, your horse changes shape (for example after being out of work) or if there is a chance it may have been damaged.In the following video, Diana Fisher, a Society of Master Saddlers registered saddle fitter, explains how to correctly fit a saddle:What to expect at a saddle fitting1 Understanding your requirementsWhen you first speak to your saddler they will ask you a series of questions. Be completely honest with your answers, especially if they are coming out to you, as there are only so many saddles they can fit in their van.Questions will include what you do with your horse, their age, breed and fitness, and what your budget is.These questions help the fitter build a picture of you and your horse, and helps them decide which saddles may be most suitable for you to try.When the saddle fitter arrives theyll spend some time taking templates of your horses withers, back and spine using a flexicurve.Theyll also take your horses girth measurement.Your saddle fitter will refer to these when they come back and check your saddle in the future.This gives your fitter valuable information about where your horse might have changed shape.The templates also help a fitter to decide what width of saddle will more than likely fit your horse.2 Trying a new saddleThe fit of your saddle doesnt just impact on your horse, it affects you and your riding position tooThen its time to try a few saddles. Your fitter will check to see that the saddle panels sit evenly along your horses back, whether there is adequate clearance at the wither and that it allows the shoulder to move freely. Once theyre happy with these first few checks its time to get you on board.The saddle fitter will want to see you ride in walk, trot and canter on both reins. While youre riding theyll be making assessments on how the saddle is fitting now you are on the move.Once youve ridden in all the saddles its time to give your feedback and generally discuss the feel and fit of each saddle.When youre completely happy its decision time. It may be a case of leaving a saddle with you there and then, or you may have to wait for your saddle to be made. If you are buying second hand and nothing your fitter has in their van fits, they may be able to advise where to look for a suitable saddle and they can keep an eye out too. When the right saddle is found, you can arrange for the saddle fitter to return and assess it for you.How to check your saddle fitWhen you own a saddle, checking its fit is an ongoing process. Whether youre buying a saddle for your horse for the first time, or youve owned your horse and their saddle for years, it will need regular checking by a professional saddle fitter who will look at aspects of saddle fit you may be unaware of. They will also be best placed to perform safety checks and identify and possible damage to the saddle.In between visits from a saddle fitter, it is important to monitor saddle fit yourself.Master saddler Kay Hastilow suggests making the following checks:1 Clearance of the withers and spineThink about what were trying to achieve, which is clearance of the spinous processes in the horses back at all times, at all paces and with a rider on, says Kay. If the clearance is never less than half an inch then thats enough, but it must be right through the saddle, including under the cantle.2 Balance of the saddleThe saddle should balance evenly from front to back, so the rider will sit correctly without stirrups and without having to tip forwards to keep their balance, explains Kay. The easiest way to check this is by asking someone to take a photo of you side on, at halt, walk and trot. Look to see if the saddle looks level. If its not, the rider will tip forwards in an effort to keep their balance.Dont assume, though, that if theyre tipping forwards, the front of the saddle needs lifting. Its just as likely to be the opposite.3 Listen to your horseTake notice of what your horse is trying to tell you, says Kay. If they start moving to the back of the box when you go in to tack up, this may indicate theyre worried about something. It might be the saddle, but it could also be that the bridle, bit or girth is uncomfortable, or they are hurting somewhere in their body.Horses will tell us if they have a problem, but you have to learn the language. If your horse doesnt seem to be going as well as they could, or theyre downright naughty, take time to make sure the behaviour isnt pain-related, continues Kay. Observe, listen and give your horse the benefit of the doubt until youre totally sure its just naughtiness, not them shouting Im hurting please hear me.Why is correct saddle fit so important?Prolonged riding in an out-of-balance saddle can have a serious welfare and performance impact on both you and your horse. Any change in your horses shape or posture (good or bad) will influence the fit and balance of your saddle, and theircondition, posture, and conformation varies depending on fitness and time of year. Its also important to note that these changes in condition and posture may happen in a very short space of time. Things like travel, competition and stress can all have an impact on your horses condition. This highlights the importance of having regular saddle fitting checks at least two to three times a year more can often be required.What causes poor saddle fit?Saddle fit can be affected by:Hoof balance: your saddle may become less stable towards the end of your horses shoeing cycle.Tight muscles through exercise.Veterinary issues, such as gastric ulcers or low grade lameness.Any change in shape or posture of your horse will affect saddle stability, positioning and balance. You as the rider can also gain or lose weight, which affects your position and stability in the saddle. All these changes can have a negative effect on both you and your horse with your saddle dropping at the front or rear, rolling side to side, or slipping to one side on one rein.Signs you need to call a saddle fitterHeres our saddle balance checklist. If you feel any of these, its worth giving your saddle fitter a call:Your horses movement feels restricted.Their paces feel unlevel.Theres a lack of power in the horses paces.Their back muscles are sore.Theres a dip in their quality of work and/or competition performance.You have difficulty maintaining a correct riding position.You find giving the correct aids is difficult.You suffer from muscular pain in your lower back and shoulders.You have a feeling of being unstable and unbalanced in the saddle.Your lower leg position is too far forward or slip too far back.You have a tendency to tip forwards with your upper body or lean backwards.Of course, saddle fit isnt the only cause of the above problems, and this list isnt exhaustive either. If you notice a change in your horse, checking their saddle fit is just one part of finding the cause of the problem. You will need to work with your vet, equine dental technician, equine physiotherapist, farrier and/or nutritionist to help your horse return to full health.Remember that buying a saddle is a big investment and making sure it fits you and your horse correctly is crucial for their welfare. Horses can and do change shape regularly, so even if all seems fine to you, it is still well worth spending the money on regular checks from a qualified saddle fitter to keep you and your horse sound and comfortable for longer.Things to consider about your saddlepad and girthWhatever half-pad or saddlepad you choose to use, its important to discuss this with your saddle fitter, who can take it into account when your saddle is fitted or checked, so remember to have it with you.Of course, its important that any pad you use under your saddle is a good fit; not too small, and it must not close in on the top or either side of the spinal processes.Many horses seem to prefer half-pads, as these can often act as a shock absorber between you and them and reduce forces on the horses back. According to a study by Dr Russell MacKechnie-Guire et al*, half pads were found to help buffer forces on a horses back generated by the rider in trot and canter. However, in some cases a half-pad can destabilise your saddle and lift you away from your horse slightly. As weve already mentioned, all horses are individuals and its important to listen to them and make changes if necessary.Girths offer more stability to the saddle when fitted without elastic. However, many horses who are girthy tend to prefer a girth that has a bit of give in it. If this is your horse, a girth sleeve may help, or if you choose an elasticated girth ensure that the elastic is short and not too stretchy, otherwise the saddle could become unstable.Anatomically-shaped girths work well with many horses, but again its important that the shape and size suits the conformation of your horse, in this case their ribcage. Your saddle fitter will be able to give you advice here if youre uncertain.How to find a saddle fitterWhether youre buying a new saddle or need a current one altering or its fit checking, members of the Society of Master Saddlers (SMS) are considered to be the best in the industry. Search for your nearest SMS fitter and retailer here.Main image: copyright Your Horse Library/Kelsey MediaRelated contentEssential guide to buying a saddleHalf pads do help reduce forces on a horses back, study revealsBridle fit and horse head anatomy: everything you need to know *VIDEO*Gastric ulcers in horses: why the time of day you ride and feed is keyHow to stop a horse bucking*Read the full study:MacKechnie-Guire R, Fisher M, Pfau T. Effect of a Half Pad on Pressure Distribution in Sitting Trot and Canter Beneath a Saddle Fitted to Industry Guidelines. Journal of Equine Veterinary Science. 2020The post How to check your saddle fit *VIDEO* appeared first on Your Horse.

If you were a Pony Club member, you probably remember learning and reciting the feeding rules for horses in order to pass your first efficiency test, long before you were a teenager. Every horse owner and rider, of all ages, needs to know what these rules are and understand them so that they can be correctly applied to your feeding regime. Horses have complex digestive systems and providing them with a balanced diet is the basis of keeping them in good working order.In fact, a horses general health and wellbeing rely on you being able to abide by these feeding rules. Its not just whats in their bucket that counts how and when you feed forage or hard feed is crucial too. Nailing a suitable feeding routine will help to prevent common (and serious) digestive disorders, such as colic and gastric ulcers. Below are 10 golden rules for feeding a healthy horse.1 Provide free access to clean, fresh waterHorses can drink around five to ten gallons of water each day, so make sure its available constantly. Keeping your troughs and buckets scrubbed clean, free from algae and removing any ice will encourage horses to continue drinking. Water is the core ingredient for keeping a horses digestive system working correctly, which is why access to the wet stuff should never be restricted especially around feed time. This is one of the golden rules of feeding a horse. You can boost hydration levels by adding water to hard feed or using a soaked feed too.2 ForageHorses should be provided with access to ad-lib forage (grass, hay or haylage) throughout the day, which will maintain a healthy digestive system. This will be particularly important during the winter as forage will fuel the fermentation process within the hind gut, helping to keep your horse warm.3 Feed little and oftenAnother rule when feeding a horse is to give food little and often. This is in order to satisfy our horses natural grazing behaviours. Feeding little and often is good management practice, alongside feeding no more than 2kg of concentrates per meal. As horses are trickle feeders, placing forage in one or two haynets around the stable will allow your horse to graze between these throughout the day. This is a step towards cafeteria-style feeding, which has huge benefits for horses.4 Avoid sudden dietary changesWhen making changes to your horses diet, its important to do this gradually, ideally over a period of 7-10 days to avoid digestive upset or colic. This is another golden feeding rule that applies to all horses.5 Monitor weight and conditionBecause you see your horse every day, it can be tricky to notice the small changes in their weight and condition. Taking a weekly picture on your phone and using a weigh tape and body condition score chart will ensure they dont lose or gain too much weight.6 Extend their eating timeIf you have a horse whos a quick eater and bolts their feed, its really important to slow them down to avoid episodes of choke. Adding a chaff into your horses feed is a great way to do this. However, if they can no longer manage a chaff, placing a large stone in the middle of a shallow bucket with the feed around it will also help. A soaked feed, fed sloppy, could also be useful in this scenario.7 Bear in mind the horses veterinary historySome conditions will require a strict feeding regime, so its always advisable to contact your feed manufacturer before buying the feed to make sure its suitable for your horses specific health condition.8Consider their workloadIf you increase or decrease your horses workload, appropriate changes should be made to their diet to ensure theyre getting enough energy for their work.The type of energy they need should also be considered. Quick-release energy will often be provided from competition or more traditional feeds that use molasses or cereal grains as energy sources. Slow-release energy will come from fibre and oil-based sources.If your horse requires more energy in their feed but increasing what they have is affecting their behaviour, speak to a nutritionist. We, and other feed companies, all have a feed helpline that you can call for free help and advice.9 Provide high-quality feedsNever be tempted to feed out of date, dusty or mouldy feed to your horse as this may contribute to respiratory problems or colic.10 Stick to a routineHorses are creatures of habit who love routine so feeding at the same time each day will keep them happy. If you might be late, leave hard feed mixed and a haynet filled and ask someone else to pop them in to your horse. If youre on a DIY livery yard where people visit at different times and horses are fed separately, consider implementing a system where all feeds are pre-prepared and ready to put in by the first person to arrive. This makes for happier, more settled horses.Main image: copyright ShutterstockRelated contentInside a horses digestive system and how to keep it healthyWhy every horse will benefit from having a soaked feedHow to save money on horse feedAll about impactions and gassy colic in horsesGastric ulcers: why the time of day you ride and feed is so importantThe post 10 golden feeding rules for a healthy horse appeared first on Your Horse.

Do certain concentrates increase gastric ulcer risk? A nutritionist answers this commonly asked question.The post Can I Feed My Ulcer-Prone Horse Sweet Feed? appeared first on The Horse.

Summer Dressage League Week 3Strictly entries before 9pm on the Thursday before, times postedby 5pm on the FridayClass 1a - Intro C (2016) AssistedClass 1b - Intro C (2016) JuniorClass 1c 0 Intro C (2...

Follow these steps to safely and successfully add a new horse to an existing herd. Learn more in The Horse's 2024 Preventive Care issue. The post Introducing a New Horse to the Herd appeared first on The Horse.

Mid week Show Jumping LeaguePoints accumulated each week with the best 4 weeks plus final counting towards league placingsCompetitors must compete at 4 out of the first 5 weeks (in the same class) plu...

Emily enjoys happy hacking in the wonderful Dartmoor National Park. About the product The Fairfax & Favor Sheepskin Boudica Ladies Ankle Boots are an extremely versatile design ideal for a range of active pursuits! An all-terrain boot that retains style and comfort, the Boudica is a Chelsea-style boot built for the great outdoors. It is crafted from a waxed full-grain leather outer with the addition of a luxuriously soft and warm shearling lining for comfort. Elasticated panels on each side allow for flexibility and freedom of movement. Fairfax and Favor Sheepskin Boudica Ladies Ankle Boots Oak What were your first impressions?I had been deliberating about purchasing the Boudica boots for a while before I finally got my hands on a pair, and I have not been disappointed. The Boudica is well designed and beautifully finished, boasting a durable sole, soft leather and fine detailing that mark this boot as a premium product. They were instantly comfortable to wear. The leather is supple and the elasticated ankle webbing makes them easy to take on and off, as well as providing a snug fit. The cushioned insole provides excellent arch support, and the shearling lining makes these boots especially cosy during the winter months. Quality aside, the value of the Boudica lies in its versatility. This is a practical boot as suitable for walks in the countryside as it is for stylish dressing. For those deliberating as to whether they are worth the investment, I would strongly recommend them!The post Tried & Tested: Fairfax and Favor Sheepskin Boudica Ladies Ankle Boots in Oak first appeared on Redpost Equestrian Blog.

SectionKey PointsThe Importance of a Unique Horse NameReflects character, heritage, and special bondMakes your horse stand outConversation starter and creative expressionMythological MarvelsPegasus: Symbolizes freedom and graceBucephalus: Known for strength and loyaltySleipnir: Represents speed and agilityArion: Known for incredible speedKelpie: Adds an element of mysteryPop Culture PicksShadowfax: Known for speed and intelligenceUnicorn: Associated with magic and purityHarry Trotter: Playful and spirited personalityBojack: Quirky and unique characterTwilight Sparkle: Whimsical and charmingNature-Inspired WondersStorm: Powerful and dynamic presenceAurora: Captivating and ethereal beautyCinnamon: Warm and spicy nameMoonshadow: Poetic and mysteriousMeadow: Gentle and serene natureFun and Whimsical NamesSir Neighs Alot: Humorous and charmingDavid Hasselhoofs: Larger-than-life personalityMane Event: Center of attentionNoodles: Quirky and endearingPuddin: Gentle and loving dispositionPractical ConsiderationsEasy to pronounce and rememberCheck for uniqueness to avoid confusionEngaging Your CommunityHost a naming contest on social mediaGenerate creative suggestions and excitementStrengthen community bondConclusionCelebrate your horse's unique qualitiesFind a name that resonates with you and your horseEnsure your horse stands out and is rememberedUnusual Horse Names: A Journey Through Creativity and TraditionNaming a horse is a special task that reflects the bond between the owner and the animal. Whether you are inspired by mythology, pop culture, or simply the horse's unique personality, the name you choose can make a lasting impression. In this blog, we will explore some of the most unusual and creative horse names, providing you with inspiration and insight into the fascinating world of equine nomenclature.The Importance of a Unique Horse NameA horse's name is more than just a label; it is a reflection of its character, heritage, and the special relationship you share. A unique name can make your horse stand out in the barn, the show ring, or on the trail. It can also be a conversation starter and a way to express your creativity and interests.Mythological Marvels Mythology offers a treasure trove of unique and powerful names that can add a touch of mystique to your horse. Here are some mythological names to consider:Pegasus: The winged horse from Greek mythology, symbolizing freedom and grace.Bucephalus: Alexander the Great's legendary horse, known for its strength and loyalty.Sleipnir: Odin's eight-legged horse from Norse mythology, representing speed and agility.Arion: An immortal horse from Greek mythology, known for its incredible speed.Kelpie: A shape-shifting water spirit from Scottish folklore, adding an element of mystery.Pop Culture Picks Pop culture is another great source of inspiration for unique horse names. From movies and TV shows to books and music, there are countless characters and references that can make for memorable names:Shadowfax: Gandalf's horse from "The Lord of the Rings," known for its unparalleled speed and intelligence.Unicorn: A mythical creature often associated with magic and purity.Harry Trotter: A playful twist on the famous wizard Harry Potter, perfect for a horse with a spirited personality.Bojack: Inspired by the animated series "Bojack Horseman," ideal for a horse with a quirky and unique character.Twilight Sparkle: From "My Little Pony," a name that brings a touch of whimsy and charm.Nature-Inspired Wonders Nature provides endless inspiration for beautiful and unique horse names. Whether you are drawn to the elements, animals, or landscapes, these names can capture the essence of the natural world:Storm: Perfect for a horse with a powerful and dynamic presence.Aurora: Inspired by the Northern Lights, ideal for a horse with a captivating and ethereal beauty.Cinnamon: A warm and spicy name, great for a horse with a rich, reddish coat.Moonshadow: A poetic and mysterious name, suitable for a horse with a dark and enigmatic appearance.Meadow: A gentle and serene name, reflecting a horse's peaceful and calm nature.Fun and Whimsical Names Sometimes, a fun and whimsical name is the perfect fit for a horse with a playful and spirited personality. Here are some names that are sure to bring a smile to your face:Sir Neighs Alot: A humorous and charming name for a horse that loves to vocalize.David Hasselhoofs: A playful nod to the famous actor, great for a horse with a larger-than-life personality.Mane Event: A clever and catchy name, perfect for a horse that loves to be the center of attention.Noodles: A quirky and endearing name, ideal for a horse with a fun and playful nature.Puddin: A sweet and affectionate name, perfect for a horse with a gentle and loving disposition.Practical Considerations When choosing an unusual name for your horse, it's important to consider some practical aspects. Ensure the name is easy to pronounce and remember, as this will make it easier for others to use it correctly. Additionally, check if the name is unique enough to avoid confusion with other horses in your barn or at events. You can even conduct a quick online search or check horse name registries to confirm its uniqueness.Engaging Your Community Involving your community in the naming process can be a fun and engaging experience. You can host a naming contest on social media or within your local horse-riding group. This not only generates excitement but also provides you with a variety of creative suggestions. Plus, it can strengthen the bond within your community and create a sense of shared ownership and pride in your horse's unique name.Conclusion Choosing an unusual horse name is a wonderful way to celebrate your horse's unique qualities and the special bond you share. Whether you draw inspiration from mythology, pop culture, nature, or whimsy, the right name can capture the essence of your horse and make them truly unforgettable. Happy naming!By exploring these diverse and creative options, you can find the perfect name that resonates with you and your horse, ensuring that they stand out and are remembered for years to come.What are some rare horse names?Rare horse names often draw from unique sources such as obscure mythology, foreign languages, or rare natural phenomena. Examples include Elysium, Zephyr, and Solstice. These names are distinctive and help your horse stand out.What is a cool name for a horse?A cool horse name should reflect a sense of strength and style. Names like Blaze, Thunder, and Rogue are popular choices that convey a sense of power and personality.What is a pretty horse name?Pretty horse names often have a musical quality or evoke beautiful imagery. Examples include Isabella, Valentina, and Serenade. These names are elegant and enhance the charm of your horse.How to pick horse names?Picking a horse name involves considering your horse's personality, appearance, and heritage. It's also helpful to choose a name that is easy to pronounce and memorable. Involve friends or community members to get creative suggestions and ensure the name resonates with you and your horse.