MOUNTED FUN ON DONAGHADEE BEACH SATURDAY 31 AUGUST, 2024.GRANSHA EQUESTRIAN CENTRE - BEST TURNED OUT TEAMJUDGED PRIOR TO THE EVENT (FREE ENTRY)MOUNTED BEACH TEAM RELAYSUPPORTED BY PIER 36 &NORTH DOWN AND ARDS BOROUGH COUNCILOPEN TO THE FIRST 12 TEAMS TO ENTER ENTRY FEE 80 PER TEAM ENTRIES CLOSE MIDNIGHT TUESDAY 27TH AUGUST.ENTRY MUST BE MADE ON THE GRANSHA EQUESTRIAN APP OR WEBSITE.All ENTRIES MUST BE ACCOMPANIED BY:-ENTRY FEE Copies of the Riders PL Insurance. (Such as BHS Gold Membership or 3rd party cover on your horses insurance). These are required to be uploaded with Entry Form.Each team must consist of 4 riders over the age of 12 years on 1/1/2024.Proper Hunt dress for adults or Pony Club dress for children.A riding crop must be carried and passed from one team member to the next as a baton.1st PRIZE 600.002ND PRIZE 250.003RD PRIZE 150.00

Learn how to master your reining spins with these tips from trainer Cody Crow. Photo by Heidi Nyland MeloccoThe spin is the maneuver specific to reining. The stylized movement shows your horses willingness to move on cue with speed and agility. Its also the move most associated with riders concerns. Will I stop on time? Will I get too dizzy? Will I lose count?Trainer Cody Crow rides reining patterns in working cow horse competitions. There, one of the requirements is to perform a reining pattern before calling for a cow. When in a reining class, youll be asked to do four or four-and-a-quarter turns in one direction.In a reined cow horse competition, youll need to do two-and-a-half to three-and-a-half spins. Whether youre preparing for a reining event or working cow horse, the move is the same.Crow describes how he prepares for turnarounds (also called spins) in a reining show.I let my horse get settled, I take a breath, make sure my horses head and neck are straight, then Ill open my inside leg, look in the direction of the spin and lay my rein on the horses neck. That starts the spin and my count. I count out loud as I go, saying the number as soon as I start that revolution.With practice and patience, the spin can look smooth and effortless. But that doesnt mean it starts off that way for every rider.A lot of riders panic when they get to the spin, says Crow. They run down and think that the horse immediately has to step into the spin. Instead, let your horse settle. Count to five and allow your horse to pause, then spin on your cue. The judge will appreciate that your horse is relaxed and settled. That sets the tone and builds eye appeal before you even start the maneuver.Perfect StartCrow suggests breathing and taking your time.Many riders forget that horses have to have time to get balanced. You have to be patient and allow your horse to transition from standing straight and square to rocking back and moving his shoulders laterally in the spin. He has to have a few steps to figure out where his feet are before maintaining a consistent turnaround with some speed.Once you stop your horse from the previous maneuver and allow him to stand still, its time to find your landmark to help you count your rotations. Youll pick a spot to look at so you know where to ask your horse to stop at the end of the spins. The spot youll choose to look at depends on your horse and how you learn to practice at home.Start the spin by squaring your shoulders and facing the same direction as your horse. Make sure his head and neck are in a straight line, and take time to correct his nose if needed by picking up and directing his nose.Then your horse should keep spinning once cued and until you tell him to whoa.When Im ready to turn, I move my chin and rotate my shoulders just slightly into the turn, says Crow. Then I rotate my shoulders slightly in the direction of the turn, which also rotates my pelvis. That helps my inside leg open and closes my outside leg and thigh against the horse. I will point my inside toe toward the direction were going. That reminds me to open up my leg.Count it OutCounting your spins is crucial to knowing when to stop. The shut-off, as Crow calls it, is important because you dont want a penalty.If you over- or under-spin by a quarter, its a one-point deduction, he says. If you spin much more than is requested, its considered being off pattern. You dont want to lose out because you havent practiced counting or planned how to stop.Crow says some riders have different counting methods, but his pattern is consistent and helps him keep his spoteven if the horse falters.I start by counting out loud as soon as I start spinning, he says. Then as I finish that first revolution, I say two and continue counting out loud. Only when I finish that revolution will I say the next number. Some riders will count the revolution then say the number, but if your horse sidesteps or stumbles, its easy to lose count. If you have the number three in your mind, you may forget if you are on three or just finished three. However you choose to count, keep it consistent.Crow counts each revolution out loud at the start of each turnaround to keep track. Photo by Heidi Nyland MeloccoOnce the horse is moving, he should maintain the speed you request and keep going steadily through all the spins. If a judge sees a horse start slowly, build up, then slow down and anticipate a stop, that spin wont score well.The FinishCrow says every horse has a little different timing in the shut-off.When Ive finished my four revolutions but need to do another quarter, I say whoa and pick my hand straight up. In that time, the horse will take another quarter-turn step. I shut off my horse at the four mark, and by the time he can actually stop, he is at the four-and-a-quarter markjust as we want. As I finish the fourth spin, I know I need to look at the center marker of the arena. I make sure to look up at the marker I need. I look in the direction of the spin, but up above the horse so Im not looking at the ground. If I look at the ground, Ill get dizzy.Learn how long your horse takes to stop so you can cue the shut-off in time to get the right spin count. Photo by Heidi Nyland MeloccoWhen it comes to knowing where to stop, Crow says some horses will stop their spin as soon as you pick up your hand. Other horses will need a few steps to stop completely. Youll need to practice this at home to find out where your horse needs to get the cue so that hell consistently shut off at the point where you need it.When I ask a horse to stop, I move my legs off and lift my reining hand up and say whoa, says Crow. If I have a horse that is a little sloppy, I will say whoa, then may use my inside leg to support that horse in the stop.Reining Spin Practice TipsCrow says that most horses dont get dizzy after turning just four times. He has found that horses get dizzy if you practice too many spins in one direction during practice at home. How do you avoid this? Dont require your horses to spin his best during every practice. Keep your horse relaxed.Crow recommends practicing at home with half the speed your horse could go. Youll keep your horse turning on your cue and keep a consistent pace until the cue to stop. If you dont cluck or kiss to your horse to ask for more speed, he should just go in a nice slow speed.Practice at half speed until closer to a show, then kiss or cluck to add speed. Vary the number of revolutions so your horse doesnt anticipate when to stop. Photo by Heidi Nyland MeloccoWhen its closer to a show and you want to practice just as youll perform at a show, kiss or cluck and ask for the show speed. Remember, once you cue your horse to spin, he should stay in the turnaround until you tell him to whoa.When working with students, Crow has his riders practice their cues, then work on the horses performance.I want to know that the rider can count correctly and get the correct number of spins for the show. Once I know that the rider is trained, I also want to make sure the horse is ready and doesnt learn to anticipate. Ill mix up the number of spins we do. I dont want my riders to constantly spin four times. I dont want the horses to anticipate and shut off at four. Instead, I like riders to practice spinning six revolutions. Thats just enough to not get dizzy while keeping them from anticipating and learning to stop the spin too soon.Leg GearAt a show, youll want to outfit your horse with polo wraps or sport boots when he is traveling at his highest speeds.Heres when to use equine leg protection:Reining Classes: Many competitors choose splint boots for the front legs and skid boots on the hind legs to help protect horses moving at high speeds.Working Cow Horse Classes: Polo wraps are the legwear of choice for riders comfortable with applying them correctly. Other horses wear sports medicine boots.At Home: Know your horse and how fast youll go. For our photoshoot, Crow didnt ask Doc to move at performance speeds and kept his legs bare as is customary when practicing for other ranch-riding events.Meet the TrainerCody Crow owns and operates No Where But Up Performance Horses with his team of trainers in Johnstown, Colo. He trains horses and riders to compete in versatility ranch horse, ranch riding, ranch trail, and reined cow horse competitions. He has earned world and reserve world championships and helped his horses earn titles in American Quarter Horse Association, American Paint Horse Association, Appaloosa Horse Club, National Reined Cow Horse Association, and National Snaffle Bit Association events.This article about reining spins appeared in the June 2023 issue of Horse Illustratedmagazine.Click here to subscribe!The post Master Your Reining Spins appeared first on Horse Illustrated Magazine.

MOUNTED FUN ON DONAGHADEE BEACH SATURDAY 31 AUGUST, 2024.GRANSHA EQUESTRIAN CENTRE - BEST TURNED OUT TEAMJUDGED PRIOR TO THE EVENT (FREE ENTRY)MOUNTED BEACH TEAM RELAYSUPPORTED BY PIER 36 &NORTH DOWN AND ARDS BOROUGH COUNCILOPEN TO THE FIRST 12 TEAMS TO ENTER ENTRY FEE 80 PER TEAM ENTRIES CLOSE MIDNIGHT TUESDAY 27TH AUGUST.ENTRY MUST BE MADE ON THE GRANSHA EQUESTRIAN APP OR WEBSITE.All ENTRIES MUST BE ACCOMPANIED BY:-ENTRY FEE Copies of the Riders PL Insurance. (Such as BHS Gold Membership or 3rd party cover on your horses insurance). These are required to be uploaded with Entry Form.Each team must consist of 4 riders over the age of 12 years on 1/1/2024.Proper Hunt dress for adults or Pony Club dress for children.A riding crop must be carried and passed from one team member to the next as a baton.1st PRIZE 600.002ND PRIZE 250.003RD PRIZE 150.00

Learn about 5 reasons to use complementary therapies such as acupuncture and chiropractic for your horse and the research behind them.The post Complementary Therapies for Horses appeared first on The Horse.

Key PointDetailsUnderstanding Equine ColicColic refers to abdominal pain in horses, which can range from mild discomfort to life-threatening conditions. Symptoms include pawing, rolling, bloating, sweating, distress, uneasiness, loss of interest in food and water, peculiar postures, and absence of gut sounds.Causes of ColicHigh grain-based diets, mouldy feed, abrupt changes in feed, parasite infestations, lack of water consumption, sand ingestion, long-term use of NSAIDs, stress, dental problems, and impaction.Wet Grass and Colic ConnectionWet grass itself is not inherently harmful, but conditions associated with wet grass can contribute to colic.High Water ContentWet grass has higher water content, leading to potential imbalance in the horse's digestive system and disruption of normal fermentation, causing gas build-up and spasmodic colic.Rapid Intake and OvereatingHorses are more likely to overeat lush, wet grass, causing stomach distension and potential colic.Bacterial and Fungal GrowthWet conditions promote growth of bacteria and fungi on the grass, leading to gastrointestinal disturbances and colic.Preventive MeasuresGradual introduction to wet grass, monitoring grazing time, providing dry forage, regular deworming, and monitoring water intake.Colic is a term that strikes fear into the hearts of horse owners. It refers to abdominal pain in horses and can range from mild discomfort to life-threatening conditions. One question that often arises is whether wet grass can cause colic. This blog will explore the relationship between wet grass and colic, backed by research and expert opinions.Understanding Equine ColicColic is a broad term that encompasses various gastrointestinal issues in horses. The causes of colic are numerous and can include:High grain-based diets or low forage dietsMouldy or tainted feedAbrupt changes in feedParasite infestationsLack of water consumptionSand ingestionLong-term use of NSAIDsStressDental problemsImpaction (blockages in the intestines)The symptoms of colic can vary but often include pawing, rolling, bloating, sweating, distress, uneasiness, loss of interest in food and water, peculiar postures, and the absence of gut sounds.Wet Grass and Colic: The ConnectionThe question of whether wet grass can cause colic has been a topic of discussion among horse owners and veterinarians. Wet grass itself is not inherently harmful, but certain conditions associated with wet grass can contribute to colic.High Water ContentWet grass has a higher water content, which can lead to an imbalance in the horse's digestive system. Horses that consume large amounts of wet grass may experience a rapid intake of water, which can disrupt the normal fermentation process in the gut. This disruption can lead to gas build-up and spasmodic colic, a type of colic characterized by painful contractions of the intestines.Rapid Intake and OvereatingHorses may be more likely to overeat when grazing on lush, wet grass. Overeating can cause the stomach to distend, leading to discomfort and potential colic. The small capacity of a horse's stomach makes it particularly susceptible to distension when large amounts of food are ingested in a short period.Bacterial and Fungal GrowthWet conditions can promote the growth of bacteria and fungi on the grass. Ingesting contaminated grass can lead to gastrointestinal disturbances and colic. Horses with sensitive digestive systems may be particularly at risk.Case Studies and Expert OpinionsSeveral anecdotal reports and case studies support the connection between wet grass and colic. For instance, a discussion on the Horse and Hound Forum highlighted instances where horses developed colic after being turned out on wet, waterlogged fields. Vets in these cases often diagnosed the horses with spasmodic colic, attributing it to the high water content in the grass.Similarly, a post on the Dalesfans Message Board described a situation where a horse developed colic after consuming wet grass. The attending veterinarian noted that wet weather often coincides with an increase in colic cases, suggesting a link between wet grass and gastrointestinal issues in horses.Preventive MeasuresTo minimize the risk of colic associated with wet grass, horse owners can take several preventive measures:Gradual IntroductionGradually introduce horses to lush, wet grass to allow their digestive systems to adjust.Monitor Grazing TimeLimit the amount of time horses spend grazing on wet grass, especially if they are prone to colic.Ensure that horses have access to dry forage, such as hay, to balance their diet and reduce the intake of wet grass.Regular DewormingMaintain a regular deworming schedule to prevent parasite infestations, which can exacerbate colic symptoms.Monitor Water IntakeEnsure that horses have access to clean, fresh water at all times to prevent dehydration and impaction colic.ConclusionWhile wet grass itself is not a direct cause of colic, the conditions associated with wet grass can contribute to gastrointestinal disturbances in horses. By understanding the risks and taking preventive measures, horse owners can help reduce the likelihood of colic and ensure the well-being of their equine companions.For more detailed information on colic, its causes, symptoms, and treatment, you can refer to resources such as My Horse University and the National Center for Biotechnology Information.By staying informed and vigilant, horse owners can better manage the risks associated with wet grass and keep their horses healthy and happy.Additional ResourcesCheck out our Jodhpur Collection, Horse Riding Boot Collection, Horse Riding Gloves Collection, and Horse Riding Socks Collection for high-quality products that can help keep your horse comfortable and healthy.Don't forget to explore our Horse Treats and Gifts and Everyday Horse Vitamins & Supplements to ensure your horse receives the best care.For additional protection, consider our Stable Rugs and Turnout Rugs.Asked by YouCan grass cause colic?Yes, grass can cause colic, especially if a horse overeats or rapidly consumes lush, rich grass. High sugar content in the grass can also contribute to digestive disturbances leading to colic.Can wet hay cause colic?Wet hay can potentially cause colic if it becomes moldy or contaminated with harmful bacteria and fungi. It is crucial to ensure hay is properly dried and stored to prevent these issues.Can rain cause colic?Rain itself does not cause colic, but it can lead to conditions that contribute to colic, such as wet, lush grass and waterlogged fields that might encourage overeating or consumption of contaminated forage.What are the symptoms of grass affected horses?Symptoms of grass-affected horses can include bloating, gas, abdominal pain, diarrhea, and changes in behavior such as restlessness or lying down more than usual. Observing these signs early can help in managing and preventing severe colic. FAQ Structured Data

SectionKey PointsWhat is a Digital Pulse?Rhythmic expansion and contraction of an artery in the lower leg.Located in the fetlock and pastern areas.Generated by blood flowing through the digital artery to the hoof.Typically faint and hard to detect in a healthy horse.Importance of Checking the Digital PulseIndicates inflammation (e.g., laminitis, abscesses, bruises).Signifies pain due to injury or underlying conditions.Helps in early detection of potential problems.How to Check the Digital PulsePosition: Squat down on the side of the horse's leg.Finding the Pulse: Use index and middle fingers around the lower edge of the fetlock joint.Feeling the Pulse: Apply pressure to feel the pulse.Assessing the Pulse: Determine if the pulse is normal or strong.Repeat: Check all four legs for comparison.Common Causes of Increased Digital PulseLocalized Issues: Abscess, bruise, or injury.Systemic Issues: Laminitis, often showing symptoms like shifting weight and lying down more than usual.Tips for Accurate Pulse CheckingPractice regularly to familiarize yourself with the normal pulse.Incorporate pulse checking into regular grooming or hoof care routine.Consult a veterinarian if unsure or if a strong pulse is detected.Understanding Your Horse's Digital Pulse: A Key to Equine HealthUnderstanding your horse's digital pulse is a crucial aspect of equine health management. This blog will delve into what a digital pulse is, why it is important, and how to check it. By the end, you will have a comprehensive understanding of this vital sign and how it can help you monitor your horse's health.What is a Digital Pulse? A digital pulse is the rhythmic expansion and contraction of an artery in a horse's lower leg, specifically in the fetlock and pastern areas. This pulse is generated by blood flowing through the digital artery to the hoof. In a healthy horse, the digital pulse is typically faint and hard to detect. However, if there is inflammation or injury in the hoof, the pulse becomes stronger and easier to feel due to restricted blood flow. Learn more about the importance of digital pulse.Why is Checking the Digital Pulse Important?Monitoring your horse's digital pulse can provide early indications of various health issues, including:Inflammation: A strong or "bounding" digital pulse often indicates inflammation in the hoof. This can be due to conditions such as laminitis, abscesses, or bruises. Read more about hoof inflammation.Pain: An increased pulse can also signify pain in the hoof, which may be due to an injury or other underlying conditions.Early Detection: Regularly checking the digital pulse helps in early detection of potential problems, allowing for prompt intervention and treatment. Discover more about the benefits of equine supplements.How to Check Your Horse's Digital PulseChecking the digital pulse involves a few simple steps:Positioning: Squat down on the side of your horse's leg, preferably starting with the left front leg. Finding the Pulse: Place your index and middle fingers around the lower edge of the fetlock joint. Apply pressure and strum your fingers side to side until you feel a cord-like bundle (vein, artery, and nerve) snap underneath your touch.Feeling the Pulse: Apply pressure to this bundle for 5 to 10 seconds until you feel the pulse. Adjust the pressure if necessary; too much pressure can cut off blood flow, while too little may not create enough resistance to feel the pulse.Assessing the Pulse: Determine whether the pulse is normal or abnormally strong. A healthy pulse is often faint and hard to find. A strong, easily detectable pulse can indicate a problem. Find more tips here.Repeat: Check the digital pulse on all four legs to compare and identify any abnormalities.Common Causes of an Increased Digital Pulse Several factors can cause an increased digital pulse, including:Localized Issues: A strong pulse in one hoof may indicate an abscess, bruise, or injury. This is often accompanied by lameness or tenderness in the affected limb.Systemic Issues: A strong pulse in multiple hooves can be a sign of laminitis, a serious condition that requires immediate veterinary attention. Symptoms of laminitis include shifting weight from foot to foot, lying down more than usual, and possible fever. Find more about laminitis.Tips for Accurate Pulse CheckingHere are some tips for ensuring you accurately check your horse's digital pulse:Practice Regularly: Familiarize yourself with your horse's normal pulse when they are healthy. This will help you detect any abnormalities more easily. Check During Routine Care: Incorporate pulse checking into your regular grooming or hoof care routine to ensure consistency and early detection of issues. Learn about horse grooming.Consult a Veterinarian: If you are unsure about the pulse or if you detect a strong pulse, consult your veterinarian for a professional assessment. Find more veterinary tips.ConclusionMonitoring your horse's digital pulse is a simple yet effective way to keep an eye on their health. By understanding what a digital pulse is, why it is important, and how to check it, you can catch potential issues early and ensure your horse remains healthy and happy. Regular practice and consultation with your veterinarian will make you more confident in assessing your horse's digital pulses and taking appropriate action when necessary.Remember, a healthy horse is a happy horse! For more tips on maintaining your horse's health, check out our horse treats and gifts collection and keep your equine friend in top shape!Asked by YouDoes a digital pulse always mean laminitis?No, a digital pulse does not always indicate laminitis. While a strong digital pulse can be a sign of laminitis, it can also result from other conditions such as abscesses, bruises, or injuries. It is essential to consider other symptoms and consult a veterinarian for an accurate diagnosis.How do you get a digital pulse on a horse?To check a digital pulse on a horse, position yourself by the side of the horse's leg. Place your index and middle fingers around the lower edge of the fetlock joint. Apply pressure and strum your fingers side to side until you feel a cord-like bundle (vein, artery, and nerve). Apply pressure to feel the pulse, adjusting as necessary.What is the significance of a post-operative digital pulse in a horse?The significance of a post-operative digital pulse in a horse can indicate how well the horse is recovering from surgery. An increased or strong pulse may suggest inflammation or pain at the surgical site. Monitoring the digital pulse post-operation can help detect complications early and ensure appropriate medical intervention.What are digital pulses?Digital pulses are the rhythmic expansion and contraction of arteries located in the horse's lower leg, specifically in the fetlock and pastern areas. These pulses can provide crucial information about the health of the horse's hooves and can indicate issues such as inflammation, pain, or injury when they become more pronounced.