Three horses from the Household Cavalry Mounted Regiment ran loose through London yesterday morning (Monday 1 July). This follows the serious incident in April when a group of horses bolted through the capital and two were seriously injured, but thankfully now recovering.On Monday, the horses were being taken on their morning exercise when three broke free from their riders and handler. Footage has been shared of the horses running through the streets by a black cab driver.They ran from Seville Street to South Eaton Place, where one horse was captured. The other two horses continued to Vauxhall Bridge via Belgrave Road before also being caught.The service animals were not seriously injured and the soldiers were unharmed.We can confirm that whilst exercising this morning, three horses from the Household Cavalry Mounted Regiment became loose from their riders, an Army spokesperson said. They were swiftly and safely recovered.One horse received minor injuries, but no further treatment is required and there were no injuries to the soldiers involved.The group were reportedly among a group of six taking their morning exercise. The trio allegedly broke free when they were spooked by a bus.The loose horses included the horse who had been leading the exercise, who was being lead and broke free from their handler, and two following ridden horses, who unseated their riders.They were returned to Hyde Park Barracks by 9.55am. None of the horses involved in yesterdays incident were those who made the headlines after breaking free earlier in the year.Lead photo: Library image by ShutterstockFurther readingUpdate on Household Cavalry horses who ran loose through London in AprilTouching video shows cavalry and police horses retired to Horse TrustPolice horse awarded bravery medal to enjoy well-deserved retirementThe post Military horses run loose through London in second recent incident appeared first on Your Horse.

The Longines Global Champions Tour proudly unveils a thrilling addition to its esteemed 2024 circuit with the introduction of a groundbreaking event in Rabat, Morocco. Taking place from October 18th to 20th, 2024, this momentous occasion marks the inaugural venture of LGCT into the vibrant and culturally rich landscape of the capital city of Morocco.Rabat, the City of Lights nestled...

Mental skills and mental toughness are as much a part of riding as horsemanship and training. Whether you need help moving past a bad experience or leveling up in competition, a riding coach can help you remove obstacles in your path.A coach can help give you the mental skills to move past a bad experience and continue advancing your riding goals. Photo by Shelley PaulsonAnxiety After InjuryLyndsey Wanits had ridden since childhood. At 19, she sustained an injury due to misguidance from a trainer and took five years off from riding. While she missed it, she was not 100 percent sure she wanted to get back in the saddle. She knew that if she mounted up again, she would need help.I eventually wanted to join a show team and also show in the alumni division of a college circuit, she says. I posted in a Facebook group asking for a professional experienced in working with riders with anxiety and timid tendencies. The coach I found got me up to speed and in those doors with the greatest support and mentorship.Following a riding injury, coaches have helped Lyndsey Wanits regain strength and confidence in the saddle. Photo by Skyler Mae Photo & DesignWanits also found an equestrian fitness coach who was instrumental in helping her regain strength and confidence. At the end of the 2022 show season, she finished fourth in the region in the western alumni division and was named Champion Jr. Horse and Reserve Walk Trot Jog Champion in her local show circuit.A Long HiatusTammy Thomas rode as a child without formal lessons, but had to put her passion for riding on hold for 40 years. In retirement, she bought her first horse and knew she needed a riding coach to help her chase her dreams.Because I started when I was older, I knew I didnt have as much time left in the saddle, so I needed someone who could teach me to ride my horse while working toward my goals, says Thomas. We spend a lot of time setting goals, and she tells me what might not be realistic at this point, or where she wants me to step up.After a 40-year hiatus, hiring a coach enabled Tammy Thomas to achieve her lifelong dream of competing in horse shows. Photo by High Cotton PromotionsWith her coachs guidance, she finished her first-ever show season as the Green Novice Rider Reserve Champion of her show circuit. Her next show season, she won the Intermediate Reserve Champion, and by her third show season, she was winning the Limited Non Pro Championship title.Trainer vs. CoachIts important to tease out the differences between a coach and a trainer. A trainer is a skilled horse person who teaches technical skills and maneuverers to you and/or your horse. A coach may also be a trainer, but goes beyond the technical aspects and focuses on your goals and mental skills to achieve your desired outcomes.The coachs job is to blend everything together and to help riders understand what they want to accomplish and why, says Shannon Pigott. She is a western performance horse trainer and an executive coach based in Fredericksburg, Texas, who formerly worked in corporate America. My No. 1 goal is to help clients understand what they want to accomplish and why, not just the how to do it.Shannon Pigott is a western performance horse trainer and an executive coach based in Fredericksburg, Texas. Photo by Kate Bradley ByarsLeslie Holleman rode hunter/jumpers through young adulthood. After a 25-year break, she jumped back into riding in a new disciplineAmerican Quarter Horse Association (AQHA) ranch riding and ranch trail. But ranch versatility caught her eye. She knew she needed lessons to learn how to perform the maneuvers properly. But she also wanted more: a coach who focused as much on the mental skills as the technical skills.A coach may also be a skilled rider and trainer, but they are highly skilled at helping you communicate your goals, translating that into a forward trajectory to level up, and working on the mental management of stress and confidence that comes with showing, says Holleman.After a 25-year break from riding, Leslie Holleman sought a coach who could blend the technical skills and mental mindset skills for success in the show pen. Photo by High Cotton PromotionsFinding a CoachPhoto by Shelley PaulsonEvery coach brings a unique perspective and approach to their program. That diversity in skillsets means there is a person perfectly suited to your goals, values, and learning styles, and these three tips can help you find the right coach for your needs.1. Focus on fit: The instant Holleman read her coachs bio on the Downunder Horsemanship brand ambassador forum, she knew she had found the right person.Her bio said, Im a people coach, and I focus on novice riders and versatility ranch horse, says Holleman. I was like thats greatthats me!Working with a riding coach is a commitment, with many coaches requiring a minimum of six months to a year in their program. So, knowing a bit about the individual before making the investment is critical.Choose someone whose values align with yours and who will allow you to explore what is important to you and help you develop a plan to achieve your goals, Pigott said. I recommend interviewing people and taking a few lessons with different people until you find the right fit.2. Know your learning style: People learn and feel motivation differently. Thomas, a retired educator, knew her coach frequently uses a classroom style setting, and she appreciates that approach.If you learn best by having someone show you what to do and then having you go out and do it, you need a coach who teaches that way, she says. If youre an auditory and lecture-type learner, choose that type of coach.The Wrong FitWorking with a riding coach is a lot like being in a relationship, and not all work out as hoped. Its important to recognize when its time to break up.If you find yourself in a spot where the activities arent fun anymore, riding is a chore, you arent achieving the results you are looking for, or you feel like you have no support, start looking for someone different, says Wanits. Everyone deserves to have fun. Dont lose your spark because you and your coach dont jive.This article about hiring a riding coach appeared in the June 2023 issue of Horse Illustratedmagazine.Click here to subscribe!The post Should You Hire a Riding Coach? appeared first on Horse Illustrated Magazine.

SectionKey PointsThe Evolution of the Horse's TailEarly ancestors had tails crucial for locomotion and balance.Evolution reduced the tail's role in movement as speed became essential for evading predators.Dr. Stuart Sumida explains tail's diminished importance over time.The Modern Horse's Tail: More Than Meets the EyeTails are vital for communication, expressing emotions and intentions.Act as natural fly swatters for insect defence.Help in temperature regulation during cold weather.Provide subtle balance assistance during high-speed movements or jumps.The Tail's Role in BalanceResearch suggests tails help in fine-tuning balance and movement.Study shows tails aid in counterbalancing during quick turns or jumps.Dock muscles and vertebrae connected to spine provide sensory information.The Importance of a Healthy TailHealthy tails sit loosely and centrally between the hamstrings.Move symmetrically when walking or trotting.Should be free from stiffness or kinks indicating past injuries or discomfort.Changes in tail movement can indicate lameness or health issues.ConclusionTails contribute to overall balance and body awareness.Serve multiple functions beyond balance like communication and fly swatting.Essential part of equine anatomy evolved over millions of years.When we think of a horse's tail, we often picture it swishing away flies or flowing gracefully in the wind. But have you ever wondered if that long, luxurious appendage serves a more crucial purpose? Let's dive into the fascinating world of equine anatomy and explore whether horses truly need their tails for balance.The Evolution of the Horse's Tail To understand the role of a horse's tail in balance, we need to look back at its evolutionary history. Millions of years ago, the early ancestors of horses had tails that played a much more significant role in locomotion and balance. As these prehistoric creatures evolved from small, forest-dwelling animals to the larger, open-plain dwellers we know today, the function of their tails changed dramatically.Dr. Stuart Sumida, an expert in evolutionary biology, explains that by the time the horse's early ancestor Hyracotherium appeared in the Eocene epoch, the tail had already become less critical for locomotion. The animal's physique had adapted to allow for greater speed, which was crucial for evading predators. As a result, the tail's importance in movement and balance diminished significantly.The Modern Horse's Tail: More Than Meets the Eye While the horse's tail may not be as vital for balance as it once was, it still serves several important functions:Communication: A horse's tail is a vital communication tool, expressing emotions and intentions to both other horses and humans.Insect defence: The tail acts as a natural fly swatter, helping horses protect themselves from biting insects.Temperature regulation: During cold weather, horses can use their tails to protect sensitive areas from the elements.Subtle balance assistance: While not crucial, the tail does provide some aid in balance, particularly during high-speed movements or jumping.The Tail's Role in Balance So, do horses actually need their tails for balance? The answer is not as straightforward as you might think. While horses can certainly function without their tails, research suggests that the tail does play a role in fine-tuning balance and movement.A study published in the Equine Veterinary Journal found that horses use their tails to make subtle adjustments during locomotion, particularly at higher speeds. The tail's movement can help counterbalance the horse's body, especially during quick turns or jumps.Interestingly, the tail's influence on balance extends beyond just its physical movement. The muscles and vertebrae at the base of the tail, known as the dock, are connected to the horse's spine and pelvic area. This connection allows the tail to provide valuable sensory information about the horse's body position and movement.The Importance of a Healthy Tail While horses may not rely on their tails for balance as much as their prehistoric ancestors did, maintaining a healthy tail is still crucial for overall equine well-being. A horse's tail should:Sit loosely and centrally between the hamstringsMove symmetrically from side to side when the horse walks or trotsBe free from stiffness or kinks, which could indicate past injuries or current discomfortOwners and caretakers should pay attention to any changes in tail carriage or movement, as these can be indicators of lameness or other health issues.Conclusion In conclusion, while horses don't strictly need their tails for balance in the same way that, say, a tightrope walker needs a balance pole, the tail does contribute to the horse's overall balance and body awareness. It's a multifunctional appendage that has evolved alongside the horse, adapting to serve various purposes beyond just balance.The next time you see a horse's tail swishing in the breeze, remember that you're looking at a fascinating piece of evolutionary history one that continues to play an important role in the life of these magnificent animals. Whether it's communicating with herd mates, swatting away flies, or making those minute adjustments during a gallop, the horse's tail is truly more than just a hairy fly swatter.For more information on horse care and products, check out our Jodhpur Collection and Horse Riding Boot Collection.Asked by YouCan a horse survive without a tail?Yes, a horse can survive without a tail. While the tail serves several important functions, such as communication and insect defence, horses can adapt and manage without it. However, the absence of a tail can affect the horse's quality of life and its ability to communicate and protect itself from insects.What happens if you cut a horse's tail off?If a horse's tail is cut off, it loses a significant tool for communication and insect defence. The horse may also experience discomfort or phantom pain, similar to what humans feel after an amputation. Additionally, the horse may struggle more with balance during high-speed movements or jumps.What is the purpose of a horse's tail?A horse's tail serves multiple purposes, including communication, insect defence, and temperature regulation. It helps horses express emotions and intentions to other horses and humans, swat away flies, and protect sensitive areas from the elements during cold weather. The tail also provides subtle assistance in balance, especially during high-speed activities.Can a horse's tail grow back?A horse's tail can regrow if only the hair is cut. The hair will eventually grow back to its original length over time. However, if the tail is amputated or severely injured, the bones and muscles will not regenerate, and the horse will permanently lose part of its tail. Do Horses Need a Tail to Balance? - FAQ

Researchers reviewed literature about an anatomical variation of the equine cervical spine called TC67 that occurs most often in Warmbloods.The post Diagnosing Equine Neck Pain Without Neurologic Disease appeared first on The Horse.

CategoryDetailsUnderstanding Horse MarkingsWhite areas on a dark base coat; present at birth; used for identification; markings remain constant throughout life.Common Facial MarkingsStar: White mark between or above eyesSnip: White mark on muzzle between nostrilsBlaze: Wide white stripe down the faceBald Face: Very wide blaze, extending past eyesCommon Leg MarkingsCoronet: White just above the hoofPastern: White above the hoof, below fetlockSock: White higher than fetlock, below knee/hockStocking: White extending to knee/hock or higherGenetic FactorsGenes determine white markings; Chestnut horses have more extensive markings; W20 allele associated with white face and leg markings.Significance of MarkingsIdentification: Unique to each horseBreed Standards: Specific requirements/preferencesAesthetic Appeal: Adds beauty and varietyNon-White MarkingsBend-Or spots: Dark spots on Chestnut/Palomino coatsErmine marks: Black marks on white markings, usually on legsMedicine hat: Dark ears and poll surrounded by whiteFamous Horse MarkingsExamples like Seabiscuit with a star on the forehead highlight the importance and charm of horse markings.Horses are magnificent creatures, each with their own unique characteristics. One of the most fascinating aspects of horses is their markings - distinctive patterns of white hair on their coat that not only add to their beauty but also serve as important identification features. In this blog, we'll explore the world of horse markings, their significance, and how they contribute to each horse's individuality.Understanding Horse MarkingsHorse markings are typically white areas on an otherwise dark base coat colour. These markings are present at birth and remain constant throughout the horse's life, making them invaluable for identification purposes. Most markings have pink skin underneath the white hairs, although some faint markings may have white hair without underlying pink skin.It's important to note that while a horse's winter coat may slightly alter the appearance of markings, the underlying pattern remains unchanged. Even in grey horses, which lighten with age, markings can still be determined by trimming the hair closely and wetting the coat to reveal the skin colour underneath.Common Types of Horse MarkingsFacial MarkingsFacial markings are among the most visible and varied. Some of the most common types include:Star: A white mark between or above the eyes.Snip: A white mark on the muzzle, between the nostrils.Blaze: A wide white stripe running down the face from the forehead to the muzzle.Bald Face: A very wide blaze, extending to or past the eyes.Leg MarkingsLeg markings are another key area where horses can have distinctive white patterns. These include:Coronet: White just above the hoof, usually no more than 1 inch above the hoof.Pastern: White extending above the top of the hoof, but below the fetlock.Sock: White extending higher than the fetlock but not as high as the knee or hock.Stocking: White extending at least to the bottom of the knee or hock, sometimes higher.The Genetics Behind Horse MarkingsRecent studies have shed light on the genetic factors influencing horse markings. Interestingly, a horse's genes play a significant role in determining whether it will have white markings, although the specific genes involved may vary between breeds.Some key findings include:Chestnut horses generally have more extensive white markings compared to bay or black horses.Horses with the W20 allele typically have white face and leg markings.The Significance of Horse MarkingsHorse markings serve several important purposes:Identification: Markings are unique to each horse, making them excellent identifiers.Breed Standards: Some breed registries have specific requirements or preferences for certain markings.Aesthetic Appeal: Many horse enthusiasts appreciate the beauty and variety that markings add to a horse's appearance.Non-White MarkingsWhile white markings are the most common, horses can also have other types of distinctive marks:Bend-Or spots: Dark faint spotting, usually seen on horses with a Chestnut or Palomino coat colour.Ermine marks: Black marks on a white marking, often seen on leg markings just above the hoof."Medicine hat": An unusual Pinto or Paint colouring where the horse has dark ears and poll surrounded by white on the head and neck.Real-World Examples and AnecdotesFamous horses often have notable markings. For example, Seabiscuit, a champion thoroughbred, had a distinct star on his forehead. Such markings not only help in identifying these horses but also become part of their legend and charm.ConclusionHorse markings are more than just beautiful patterns; they're an integral part of equine identification and genetics. From the simple star to the striking bald face, each marking contributes to the unique identity of a horse. Whether you're a horse owner, enthusiast, or simply curious about these magnificent animals, understanding horse markings can deepen your appreciation for the diversity and individuality of horses.Remember, while this guide covers many common markings, the world of horse coloration is vast and complex. Each horse is unique, and their markings are just one aspect of their individual beauty and character.What are the markings on horses called?The markings on horses are generally referred to as white markings. These include various patterns of white hair that can appear on the horse's face, legs, and body, providing unique identifiers for each horse.What are the 5 ways to identify a horse?There are five primary ways to identify a horse: markings, colour, breed, brand/tattoo, and microchip. Markings include distinctive white patterns; colour refers to the horse's overall coat colour; breed can provide specific physical traits; brands or tattoos are often used by registries; and microchips offer a modern, reliable method for identification.How are horses marked?Horses can be marked in several ways, most commonly through their natural white markings on the face and legs. Other methods include branding, which involves a hot or cold iron to create a permanent mark on the skin, and tattooing, often used inside the lip. Additionally, microchipping is an increasingly popular and reliable method.What is a star marking on a horse?A star marking on a horse is a white spot located between or above the eyes. This marking is one of the many facial markings that can help identify and add character to a horse.

Theres a very famous saying: no foot, no horse and its true if you underestimate the importance of hoof care in your horses daily routine theyre unlikely to stay sound and well for long. Whether they are a newborn foal or older, allowing horse hooves to become overgrown, unbalanced or hoof wall quality to deteriorate will eventually cause pain and lead to lameness. Suddenly you find yourself with a horse that is unrideable and, chances are, a hefty vet (and farrier) bill to boot.Horses typically need re-shoeing anywhere between four and 10 weeks apart. For those who are unshod (barefoot), they should still be seen by a farrier or trained equine podiatrist at regular intervals for a possible trim and to check their general hoof health.How often your horse needs to be shod depends on their breed and the type of work they do. Native breeds in light work tend to go longer between farrier visits, compared to a Thoroughbred that does a lot of roadwork, explains Northampton-based farrier Reubin Underwood, whose toppiece of advice is to check your horses hooves on a daily basis.Make it a part of your normal daily routine perhaps when grooming or changing rugs in the morning and evening as you know your horse best and so will be able to spot a potential problem early.Hoof care for a sound horseThis is a nicely trimmed and cared for hoofAbalanced diet aids the growth of healthy hoof. Your farrier may recommend that you feed a hoof supplement, many of which include biotin, especially if your horse has limited turnout and is lacking in the natural, hoof-friendly vitamins and minerals found in grass.Regularly wash your horses frogs with salt water to prevent infection and check it daily for any wounds as part of your hoof care regime. Always dry the sole of your horses feet well afterwards and avoid allowing your horse to stand on wet bedding or ground for too long, as this can cause thrush.Apply a hoof dressing a couple of times a week, to help keep the hoof wall in good condition. Speak to your farrier about whats best to apply and when as it is weather dependent. During a hot, dry spell, hooves may need moisture to help prevent cracking and/or the hoof wall becoming brittle, while in wet weather they need to be given time to dry out.Reubin advises the following daily hoof care routine:Pick your horses feet out at least once every day. You should always pick out hooves before riding and after riding, as well as when the horse is brought in from the field. Picking feet out regularly helps to prevent thrush and removes any dirt/stones that could cause bruising.Apply a hoof dressing to protect and nourish the horn, so to avoid cracks and flakes. Your farrier will be able to advise what sort of hoof ointment will suit your horse best.Check that all shoes are still in the correct place, arent loose or overly worn, and that the clenches havent risen.Horse hooves and the weatherHorse hooves grow fastest in the spring and autumn, coinciding with shedding or growing a winter coat to prepare for the change in season. In the summer and winter, hoof growth slows down. However, maintaining routine farrier visits for a regular hoof trim or a new set of shoes remains key all-year round. Of course, changing seasons means variable weather conditions too, which has an enormous impact on hoof quality.In fact, the weather affects a horses hooves more than you probably think, and it should influence your hoof care regime too. Particularly in countries where the weather can throw unexpected curve balls thunderstorms in the middle of summer, for example (I can see one out of my office window as I write this in the UK) the constant change from wet to dry and back again can wreak havoc on horse hooves.Its the sudden change in conditions that causes the issues, explains Worcestershire-based farrier Jack Climo Dip WCF. It takes on average three days to a week for horse hooves to adapt, so when the weather is constantly changing, it can leave the hoof vulnerable.Problems arise after a wet spell, when the soles of the horses hooves become soft and then the ground suddenly hardens up after a prolonged dry period when the moisture content is low. This leaves horses exposed to bruised soles and hoof abscesses.In these cases, be careful where you ride for a week until your horses feet have caught up with the current conditions, advises Jack. Avoid stony, hard and unlevel going.Moisture levels in horse hoovesIts important that your horse hoof care regime is geared towards maintaining a consistent moisture level.Horse hooves can adapt very well to long dry periods or to constant wet, like most of our winters here in the UK, but what the hoof struggles with is wet-dry-wet conditions, which are typical of a British summer, states Jack. When the hoof is exposed to moisture it expands and softens, whereas when it is dry it contracts. Changes in moisture levels means the hoof wall is constantly expanding and contracting, which can lead to loose nails, hoof wall cracks and foot abscesses.Jack echoes Reubins advice, which is to apply a hoof moisturiser or oil twice a day (ideally after picking hooves out) to help keep the hooves well moisturised during a dry spell.Be aware that the type of bedding you use will also have an impact on the moisture in your horses hooves. Shavings generally offer the optimum moisture levels, whereas straw can dry the hooves and increase the risk of thrush in the frogs.How to add condition to horse hoovesTo help maintain a consistent moisture content in hooves, Jack recommends applying a moisturising hoof conditioner to help trap moisturiser in and prevent hooves from becoming dry and brittle.If your horse is out overnight, apply the oil when they come in as theyre likely to have moisture from the grass dew on their hooves and the oil will help to keep the moisture in, advises Jack. If the hooves are dry, you could spray them with the hose to apply some water before adding the oil. For very soft soles that bruise easily, you could apply iodine or a hoof hardener.Beware your horse stamping their hooves due to flies in summer. This can cause bruising, concussion and cracks in the hoof wall. Consider stabling your horse at peak fly times and use fly sprays and fly rugs, including when theyre in the stable.Signs of a well-shod hoofA well-shod hoof is the end result of good horse hoof care, but do you know what that looks like? Here are three things to look for:When your horse is stood square and on level ground, look at their front feet. Both hooves should look as though theyre the same length, and the coronary bands should be parallel to the floor. Then look at the hind feet for the same signs.Pick up each foot and examine the shoe. It should be smooth with no kinks or bumps, and nicely rounded towards the front. Pointed shoes will impact on your horses break-over movement. Shoes that are worn at the front, particularly on the hind hooves, are a sign the horse has been dragging their back feet.Look at your horses heels on the front feet. Every horse is different, but as a general rule if their heels are are upright, their shoes will need to stick out less at the back as they wont need as much support as a horse with an under-run heel. However, heel support on the back feet tends to be different, as this is where the horse gets their speed and power from. To help with this, your farrier may leave more shoe sticking out of the back of the foot to better support the heel, in turn helping the horse with their movement.Signs a horse needs new shoesHaving new shoes at the correct intervals is another part of good horse hoof care. The following are good indicators that your horse needs to be seen by a farrier:The clenches have risen away from the hoof wall. The clenchesare the top of the nails that you can see on the outside of the hoof.The hoof has visibly overgrown the shoe at the front or sides. Overgrown horse hooves should always be avoided.The shoe has become worn and thin, so your horse has no grip on smooth surfaces.The shoe is twisted or has become loose or its come off completely.What does a balanced hoof look like?Youll often hear farriers (and vets) refer to a balanced hoof, and this is critical in order to maintain soundness. In a nutshell, it refers to the way your horses hoof strikes the floor (all four hooves must do this with equal impact). If your horses footfall is uneven for example if one heel strikes before the other heel does it will cause uneven stress within the foot and lower limbs. This, in turn, will affect your horses gait and limit their mobility.In a balanced hoof, the pastern and the front of the hoof run at the same angle to one another. If you look at the hoof side-on, there should be a straight line from the fetlock joint down to the bottom of the hoof. The foot should also land on the ground evenly, not one side before the other.Break-over is the moment your horseshoof starts to leave the ground in walk, with their heel rising first before the toe.If the hooves are unbalanced, your horse will struggle with this movement and may become unsound. This is usually the result of your horses toes becoming too long, or the shoe no longer fitting properly. Your farrier will shape your horses hoof in a way that aids its break-over, usually by rounding or squaring it off.Its vital that your horses heel is supported correctly by their shoe. If a shoe doesnt extend to the back of the heel, theres no support for the bones, tendons and ligaments in the back of your horses leg. This also puts stress on other parts of the limb, limiting your horses movement and affecting their long-term soundness.Overgrown horse hoovesThese horse hooves are overgrownMany of the rescue horses Your Horse reports on are found with overgrown hooves. In a six-week shoeing cycle, the average horse hoof grows a quarter of an inch. A good exercise is to measure the length of your horses hoof from the front centre of the coronet band down to the toe clip on the shoe. Make a note of the length and remeasure the day your horse is being reshod. You could also take photos of the hooves at both stages as well, and then compare the difference.The main problem with overgrown hooves is that it affects a horses balance. Rather than the whole hoof carrying their weight, the horse is forced on to their heels, affecting their movement and causing discomfort. Without regular farriery attention, hooves become overgrown very quickly.You might be thinking that horses in the wild dont have farrier check ups and they manage fine and youd be right. All the walking around a wild horse does on varying terrain helps to keep hooves at a healthy length. But kept horses typically dont have this sort of freedom. Even if they are turned out 24/7, a grass surface alone is unlikely to keep an unshod hoof trim; and if your horse is wearing shoes (shod), it makes no difference at all.I have seen overgrown horse hooves once before, when my farrier responded to an RSPCA case and asked for my assistance. There were five horses and ponies altogether. All hooves were so long that the front hooves had curled at the toe. The worst affected was a little grey Thoroughbred who was in so much pain she could barely move, and sadly she was put to sleep. The other four fully recovered.Newborn horse hoovesNewborn horse hooves are soft at firstI think newborn horse hooves are fascinating. When a foal is born, their hooves are covered in eponychium. This is a soft covering designed to protect the mares uterus when she is pregnant (foals like to kick when inside their dams tummy) and when she gives birth. Foals pass through the birth canal front legs first, with their heads tucked in between them so the first thing youll see if you witness a foaling are newborn hooves.In the wild, remember, horses are prey animals and so a foal needs to get up and move after being born if it is going to survive. That is why a newborn has fully formed hooves.Newborn hooves are made of the same horn tubules, keratin and lamellae as an adult horse hoof. Eponychium is deciduous hoof capsule, which means it will eventually fall off. Another term for it is fairy fingers the soft, rubbery newborn hooves do look rather fingerlike. There is a great image showing this here.As soon as they are exposed to air, newborn horse hooves start to dry out and harden. It takes the eponychium a couple of days to fall off and the foal will be ready to see a farrier by the time theyre one-month-old, ready to start their regular horse hoof care routine. Newborn hooves grow at around 0.4mm per day two times as quickly as an adult horse!Main image: copyright Your Horse Library/Kelsey Media/Contemporary Captures.Other images: copyright ShutterstockRelated contentWhat is the difference between a farrier, blacksmith and equine podiatrist?All about hoof trimming for horsesIs barefoot a better choice for your horse?Bruised soles in horses: common signs, causes and six ways to treat themHow to poultice a hoof: Alan Davies step-by-step guideThe post Essential hoof care guide for every horse owner appeared first on Your Horse.

William Fletcher won the most recent British Horse Feeds Speedi-Beet Horse of the Year Show Grade C Qualifier held at the Royal Norfolk Show, earning two more qualifying spots for the final.With his homebred Secret Sunset, Fletcher, who has already qualified two horses for the Horse of the Year Show final, went first in the jump-off. They established the benchmark by finishing in an unbeatable 43.05 seconds. Fletcher remarked after his victory, She jumped super. This was her first ever county show, although she has had a lot of practice on grass. She settled in really nicely and jumped superbly; took strides out and did the turns needed. She seemed really comfortable out there.Here at British Horse Feeds we are best known for our flagship product Speedi-Beet which, thanks to the unique patented process has revolutionized the feeding of beet pulp. Speedi-Beet has improved nutrient availability and soaks in just 10 minutes, compared to 24 hours for sugar beet pellets. Its a great way to add quality fibre to your horses diet for slow release energy.For more information and expert advice from our nutritional team contact British Horse Feeds on 01765 680300 or visit our website onwww.britishhorsefeeds.com.[photo Credit: TopShots Photography]The post The Royal Norfolk Show hosts the British Horse Feeds Speedi-Beet Horse of the Year Show Grade C Qualifier with William Fletcher taking the win. appeared first on British Horse Feeds.

A set of mane thinners is a very useful item to keep in your grooming kit.Whether youre looking to shorten or thin your horses mane to make plaiting easier, or youre simply trying to tame their wild locks, many horse owners agree that the traditional way of pulling a mane isnt the easiest (or kindest) way to do it. A lot of horses dislike having their mane pulled, and so alternatives methods have had to be found.To get the best results when youre pulling a horses mane, you need to thin it as well as shorten it, and there there are a growing number of products that claim to do this in a humane way, such as mane thinners. Our tester used a number of mane pulling products on two horses for over 12 months. Neither horse likes having their mane pulled, so she was keen to see how they reacted to this new method of tidying. As well as assessing her horses behaviour, our tester also considered how easy the products are to use and how effective they are at giving a neat and natural finish. Each product is marked out of five for ease of use, effectiveness and value for money.The Your Horse test: mane thinnersThe SolocombSolocombIs it easy to use?This is a simple piece of kit that is easy to use. The handle of the comb is rubberised, which makes it easy to hold. To cut the mane you simply press down the lever on the top of the comb handle and the blade cuts the mane. The horse feels no pain or discomfort not even a pull.Does it do a good job?The more I use the SoloComb the better the results I get. At first one of my horses still thought I was going to pull hair out, as the technique you use is similar back combing hair before pressing the lever to cut through the mane and he was anticipating the hair being pulled out. He soon realised that pulling hair out wasnt going to happen and now stands quietly to have his mane shortened. You cant be greedy. To get the best results only cut a small amount of hair at a time.Value for money?This is an affordable piece of kit and very good value because it does a good job. The blade has done both of my horses manes several times. You can buy replacement blades.RRP 20.49 (US$42.99)Buying in the UK? Purchase hereBuying in the USA? Purchase hereSolorakeIs it easy to use?This rake is so easy and quick to use for mane thinning. The shape of the handle makes it comfortable to use too. Ive used this product on my both my horses manes and tails with great results. All you do is comb through the mane and tail in the usual way. I recommend combing through with a regular mane comb first to remove any knots and tangles for best results.Does it do a good job?This is a double-headed rake and it makes short work of thinning out thick manes. Ive used it a lot on an Irish Sport Horse who has a particularly thick mane and who thoroughly dislikes having his mane pulled. The SoloRake does the job and my horse stands quietly while I use it. I found that I just needed to tidy the length up a little once I finished thinning the mane.Value for money?I think this is great value for a handy mane thinning rake.RRP 20.49 (US$25.95)Buying in the UK? Purchase hereBuying in the USA? Purchase hereLincoln Thinning KnifeIs it easy to use?This is a neat bit of kit that folds away neatly (like a pen knife) when youre not using it for easy storage in a grooming kit or similar. The wooden handle is a good shape and provides good grip. It took a few goes with this to perfect my technique as you have to make sure you hold the hair you want to remove tightly, otherwise it doesnt cut very well.Does it do a good job?Once Id got my technique sorted I got on very well with this thinning knife. It important not to try and remove too much hair at a time in order to get the best results. Its great for quick tidy ups to keep my horses mane at a good length for easy plaiting. Both of my horses are happy to stand quietly while I shorten and tidy their manes.Value for money?This is very good value and a useful item to have. I will definitely buy it again.RRP 13.50 (US$39.99)Buying in the UK? Purchase hereBuying in the USA? Purchase hereSmart Grooming Pro Levelling KnifeIs it easy to use?This handy knife has proved to be great for tidying manes. Its easy to hold and the wide blade makes it effective as well as easy to use.Does it do a good job?This knife leaves a natural looking finish to a mane, which I like. It also doesnt take very long to work down the mane and get it nice and level. One of my horses still isnt keen on having her mane back combed, as she thinks Im going to pull the hair out, but she is getting better the more I use this knife. I found that it works best when used with a rake to thin the mane first.Value for money?This is very good value. It is a great piece of kit to have in your grooming kit for regular mane touch-ups. You can choose between a blade for fine or coarse hair.RRP 14.95 (US$19)Buying in the UK? Purchase hereBuying in the USA? Purchase hereSmart Grooming Smart Manes Thinning RakeIs it easy to use?This rake is quick and simple to use: simply brush the mane onto the wrong side and brush it through, before running the rake through from the top of the neck down. Its a quick job just run the rake over the area of mane that you want thinning a couple of times. I found it quick and easy to use. It is particularly handy for horses who dislike their mane being backcombed as is the case with my horse because there is no need to backcomb the mane at all. It removes a lot of the stress associated with mane pulling for both of you.Does it do a good job?I found this rake really effective, but you need to be careful you dont get too much mane in it at once. I only use it on the thickest part of the mane and both of my horses stand quietly while it is done. You need to tidy up and level off the mane after youve thinned it to give a neat appearance.Value for money?This isnt a cheap thinning rake, but it feels like it is good quality and it is still working well after heavy use. Replacement heads are available to buy separately and are available for fine, coarse or medium hair.RRP From 39.95 (US$49)Buying in the UK? Purchase hereBuying in the USA? Purchase hereRoma Mane Comb and Thinning BladeIs it easy to use?This mane comb is a really handy addition to your grooming kit. Its easy to hold and you can use it just as a comb or turn it over so that the blade is facing the mane to thin and shorten. Think of it as a two in one. If your horses mane needs a quick touch up, you dont even to swap mane combs.Does it do a good job?I got on better with this one when I used it as a finishing off comb. The blade copes well with levelling off the length of the mane, but I found that it struggled to thin out my horses mane. Ive used it on both of my horses several times and the blade still has some life left in it.Value for money?This is an absolute bargain for such a handy item! It is very good value because it works well at shortening and tidying. I think everyone should have one in their grooming kit at home and one on the lorry for final touch ups when youre out at a show.RRP 2.70 (US$8)Buying in the UK? Purchase hereBuying in the USA? Purchase hereMetal Thinning RazorIs it easy to use?I like the longer handle on this comb which makes it easy to hold and use. I also like that blades can be easily replaced when needed. As well as manes and tails, it can be used to thin feathers on a horses legs, so its a handy razor to have.Does it do a good job?This razor is not as effective at thinning out the mane as some of the others products Ive used and tested, but I found it good for levelling off the mane after it had been thinned. It did work a little better on the tail. The blades do need replacing quite often.Value for money?This is a useful bit of kit that wont break the bank.RRP 4.99Buying in the UK? Purchase hereRelated contentMane and tail detanglers independently tested by horse ridersEssential horse brushes for your grooming kitHow to plait a horses mane: essential step-by-step guide *VIDEO*Horse grooming vacuum: what they are, how they work and where to buy oneGrooming advice for a mud- and dust-free coat that shinesThe post Seven humane mane thinners tried and tested appeared first on Your Horse.