Veterinary surgeon Richard Hepburn, who is a specialist in equine internal medicine, has revealed how feeding horses 80% of their daily forage during the day can help to reduce their risk of gastric ulcers, which is one of the leading causes of claims on horse health insurance policies.Speaking at Saracen Horse Feeds Equine Health & Nutrition Seminar recently, Richard discussed the latest research which has proved that horses are more likely to suffer from ulcers if they are starved in the daytime rather than at night.If you want to make stomach ulcers, starve the horse. Its really easy, you can do it in two to five days, he said.A very clever lady called Louise Husted took that model further 12 hours of starvation and what she showed was if you do it from 7am in the morning until 7pm at night you will get ulcers.If you re-feed those horses, treat their ulcers, make the stomach happy again [and] then do the same period or duration of starvation but now you are doing it from 7pm at night until 7am in the morning no ulcers.The risk period for ulcer formation in horses appears to be the daytime.Daytime forage biasRichard went on to discuss a daytime forage bias, which supports Louises research into gastric ulcers in horses. It suggests mimicking a horses natural behaviours by feeding the majority of their forage in the day.If you are dealing with the slightly chubby show horse, slightly chubby leisure horse, you are going to be forage-restricting them [and] they are going to need less food, continued Richard.In order to make their stomach a happier place, think about instituting the 80:20 daytime forage bias. So youve taken 80% of their 24-hour forage ration and you are now giving it to them [between] 7am and 7pm.Thats going to maximise the buffering effect on their stomach, reducing the likelihood of ulcers forming, explained Richard.If you look at the voluntary intake of feed by horses, what they tend to do is eat in the day, a little bit in the evening up to midnight, and then they sleep.So what were doing is providing them with food which is appropriate to their normal lifestyle if you give them the choice.View this post on InstagramA post shared by Saracen Horse Feeds (@saracen_horse_feeds)Limiting time without foodIndependent equine nutritionist Donna Case told Your Horse that horses should not be left for more than four hours without access to forage.While this isnt an issue for those horses living out and with access to grass, it can prove difficult for stabled horses or those who need to have their grass intake limited.For stabled horses, this timescale can become a challenge, so consider buddying up with a friend to provide hay/haylage nets little and often, advises Donna.You may find you need to get to the stables much earlier in the morning or later in the evening than you anticipated.Timing and amount of exercise is keyConsidering what time you ride and feed your horse can also help manage the symptoms of equine ulcers according to Dr Ben Sykes, associate professor in equine internal medicine at Massey University in New Zealand.He told Your Horse there are two distinct gastric syndromes in horses, one affected by intensity of exercise and the other by the amount.In short, intensity of exercise influences squamous disease, whereas the amount of exercise influences glandular disease.Over the course of a week, the total number of minutes a horse spends at trot, canter or gallop will contribute to the risk of squamous disease, he said.Exercise is also significant in relation to glandular ulcers, but for these ulcers its the number of days exercised per week, not the intensity or duration that is relevant.Dr Ben Sykes explains more hereMain image: copyright ShutterstockRelated contentWhy saliva is key to preventing gastric ulcersHow a horses digestive system worksHay vs haylage: which is best?The role of cafeteria style feeding and its benefits for horses *VIDEO*The post Feed 80% of forage during the day to reduce ulcer risk, says vet appeared first on Your Horse.

Section Key Points Understanding the Issue Overgrown paddocks result from underutilization, needing attention to encourage growth and prevent weeds. Clipping and Mowing Cool-season grasses: 4 inches Warm-season grasses: 8 inches Mow when grass reaches 12 inches Allow pasture to recover before grazing Rotational Grazing Divide pasture into paddocks Rotate horses every 3-7 days Rest periods for several weeks to months Soil Health and Fertilization Conduct regular soil tests Apply necessary fertilizers based on test results Aeration and Compaction Relief Use chain harrows for compacted soil Regular aeration improves water penetration Consider mole draining for heavily compacted paddocks Overseeding and Renovation Intensive chain harrowing before overseeding Rest paddock for at least three weeks post-overseeding Manure Management Spread manure evenly to avoid high nutrient concentration Allow pastures to rest after spreading manure Conclusion Combining regular maintenance, rotational grazing, and soil health improves pasture quality and productivity for healthier horses. Additional Resources Pasture Management 101 by The Horse How to Renovate a Paddock by Landscape Juice Network Basic Pasture Management by Penn State Extension How to Manage Overgrown Paddocks: Tips and Solutions from Horse Owners Managing overgrown paddocks is a crucial aspect of maintaining healthy pastures for your horses. Overgrown areas can lead to reduced pasture quality, increased weed competition, and decreased nutritional value for your horses. Here are some practical tips and solutions to help you manage overgrown paddocks effectively. Understanding the Issue Overgrown paddocks often result from underutilization, which can be due to various factors such as insufficient grazing pressure or poor pasture management practices. Unlike high-traffic areas that suffer from overuse, overgrown areas need attention to encourage healthy growth and prevent weed invasion. Clipping and Mowing One of the most straightforward methods to manage overgrown paddocks is through clipping or mowing. This practice helps maintain the pasture at an optimal height, promoting even growth and preventing weeds from taking over. Height Guidelines Cool-season grasses should be mowed to about 4 inches, while warm-season grasses should be mowed to roughly 8 inches. For mixed pastures, aim for a medium height between these two. Timing Clip or mow pastures when they reach about 12 inches in height. This frequency helps prevent the grass from becoming too tall and reduces the risk of weed competition. Avoid Over-Grazing It's essential to avoid grazing horses on the same pasture immediately after mowing, as this can lead to over-grazing and stress on the plants. Allow the pasture some time to recover before reintroducing the horses. Rotational Grazing Implementing a rotational grazing system is a highly effective way to manage pastures, including overgrown areas. This method allows different sections of the pasture to rest and recover, promoting healthier and more productive grass growth. Basic Setup Divide your pasture into multiple paddocks using temporary or permanent fencing. Rotate your horses between these paddocks, allowing each section to rest for a period before being re-grazed. Grazing Periods The duration of grazing periods can vary, but generally, shorter periods (3-7 days) increase forage utilization and reduce overgrazing. For example, rotating every 2-3 days can increase utilization by 55-70%. Rest Periods Ensure that each paddock has adequate rest time to allow the grass to regrow. This can range from several weeks to months, depending on the growth rate of your grasses. Soil Health and Fertilization Healthy soil is the foundation of a well-managed pasture. Proper fertilization and soil care can significantly improve the quality and productivity of your pasture. Soil Testing Conduct regular soil tests to determine nutrient levels and pH. This information will help you apply the correct fertilizers and amendments to maintain optimal soil health. Fertilization Based on your soil test results, apply the necessary fertilizers to enhance nutrient levels. This will support the growth of desirable grass species and reduce weed competition. Aeration and Compaction Relief Overgrown paddocks can also suffer from compaction, especially if they have been heavily grazed in the past. Aeration and compaction relief techniques can help improve soil health and promote better drainage. Chain Harrowing Use chain harrows to break up compacted soil and remove dead grass and moss. This process helps to even out the ground and improve drainage. Aeration Regular aeration can help relieve soil compaction and improve water penetration. This is particularly beneficial for pastures that have been intensively grazed. Mole Draining For heavily compacted paddocks, consider mole draining to help water drain through the compacted layer and into the subsoil. Overseeding and Renovation If your paddock is severely overgrown or damaged, overseeding and renovation may be necessary. Intensive Harrowing Before overseeding, perform intensive chain harrowing to prepare the soil. Follow this with aeration and then overseed with faster-growing grass species. Rest and Fertilization After overseeding, rest the paddock for at least three weeks to allow the new seedlings to establish. Fertilize the area to support growth and prevent weed competition. Manure Management Effective manure management is crucial for maintaining healthy pastures. Properly managing manure can help distribute nutrients evenly and reduce the formation of "roughs" and "lawns" in your paddock. Manure Spreading Break up and spread manure evenly across the pasture to avoid creating areas with high nutrient concentrations. This helps to promote uniform grass growth. Resting Pastures Ensure that pastures are rested after manure spreading to allow the grass to recover and grow without the pressure of immediate grazing. Conclusion Managing overgrown paddocks requires a combination of regular maintenance practices, rotational grazing, and attention to soil health. By implementing these strategies, you can improve the quality and productivity of your pastures, ensuring a healthier and more nutritious environment for your horses. Additional Resources For more detailed information on pasture management, consider the following resources: Pasture Management 101: High-Traffic Areas and Overgrowth by The Horse: This article provides comprehensive guidance on managing both high-traffic and overgrown areas in horse pastures. How to Renovate a Poached and Muddy Paddock by Landscape Juice Network: This guide offers practical steps for renovating damaged paddocks, including chain harrowing, aeration, and overseeding. Basic Pasture Management for the Equine Owner by Penn State Extension: This resource outlines essential practices for maintaining healthy pastures, including soil testing, fertilization, and rotational grazing. Getting the Right Equipment Managing pastures effectively also requires the right gear. Visit the following collections for top-quality horse riding equipment and supplements: Jodhpur Collection Horse Riding Boot Collection Horse Riding Gloves Collection Horse Riding Socks Collection Horse Treats And Gifts Everyday Horse Vitamins & Supplements Stable Rugs Turnout Rugs Horse Fly Protection

Welcome to Horse Illustrateds weekly installment of the Right Horse Adoptable Horse of the Week, offered in partnership with the ASPCAs Right Horse program. This weeks adoptable horse is Monty! Check back weekly for a new featured horse so you can find your Right Horse.Photo courtesy Longmeadow Rescue RanchAdoptable Horse: Monty, a 19-year-old, 14.2hh Missouri Fox Trotter geldingOrganization: Longmeadow Rescue Ranch, Union, Mo.Get to Know Adoptable Horse MontyMonty came to Longmeadow this year after his previous owners could no longer care for him. He is a beautiful, gray Missouri Fox Trotter who caught the eyes of many when he came through Longmeadows barn doors. Monty is full of personality, up to date on his vaccines, and ready to find a home.Upon evaluation by Longmeadows trainer, they found that Monty tended to have some discomfort while being worked under saddle. After a vet examination, they then found that he had thickening of his left hind suspensory ligament, which they believe is the result of overcompensating due to changes in his fetlock caused by poor conformation. Because of these findings, the vet believes Monty would be a great candidate for a lead line horse for your kids or grandkids, or someone looking for a horse for light riding. Monty would also be perfectly happy as a pasture pet or companion horse for your horse at home. Monty does require a daily Equioxx tablet to keep him comfortable.Monty likes to have a job and aims to please. Longmeadow discovered that he typically requires an adjustment period to settle in, but once he becomes comfortable in his home, hes a sweetheart. He can be pushy on the ground at times, so his adopter needs to be an intermediate horse handler who isnt afraid to correct negative behavior and be his leader. Monty loves one-on-one attention with his handler, and would be a perfect addition to a home where he can spend his days eating hay with his equine friends and being groomed.Montys maximum carrying weight, including tack and rider, is 175 pounds.Contact Longmeadow Rescue Ranchtoday about ASPCA Right Horse Adoptable Horse of the Week, Monty!Photo courtesy Longmeadow Rescue RanchCould this weeks adoptable horse be the Right Horse you have been waiting for? Click here for more information about Monty,the ASPCA Right Horse Adoptable Horse of the Week.ASPCA Right HorseASPCA Right Horse is the online adoption platform of The Right Horse Initiative, a collection of equine industry and welfare professionals and advocates working together to improve the lives of horses in transition. A program of the ASPCA, their goal is to massively increase horse adoption in the United States. To find more adoptable horses and foster horses, visit www.myrighthorse.org. To learn more about The Right Horse, a program of the ASPCA, visit www.aspcarighthorse.org.The post ASPCA Right Horse Adoptable Horse of the Week: Monty appeared first on Horse Illustrated Magazine.

This month we have a selection of amazing prizes on offer: A Mackey Wicklow mediumweight turnout rug, a tub of ColiFlex joint and digestive supplement, and a six months supply of products from the Golden Paste Company. Find out more about these great items below.For your chance to win one of these fabulous prizes, click enter here below.Win a Turnout Rug from MackeyRug worries for the winter ahead will be sorted for whoever is one of the two lucky recipients* of this giveaway, each receiving a medium weight Mackey Wicklow turnout rug.This waterproof and breathable rug has a 1,680 denier ballistic outer with taped seems and a cosy 200g filling. It also features a detachable neck piece that is rouched at the top of the neck for a closer fit. Generous shoulder gussets enhance movement, while the anti-rub 210 denier polyester lining aids comfort.To complete this turnout rug there are reflective strips front and back and a tail flap to help keep out the elements.Win Six Months Supply of Products from The Golden Paste CompanyThe Golden Paste Company is an expert at making natural supplements from the highest qualityingredients. One lucky reader* will win six months supply of the companys fantastic products three tubs of TurmerAid and three tubs of TurmerItch.TurmerAid is made of easy to feed pellets that include oil and pepper to ensure maximum absorption and bioavailability. TurmerAid targets joint health and wellbeing, aids digestion and maintains a healthy, shiny coat.TurmerItch is a skin and coat supplement that is absorbed into the bloodstream rather than applied topically. It reduces itching, repels insects, supports hair regrowth and soothes the skin.Naturally low in sugar, TurmerAid and TurmerItch are suitable for horses and ponies prone to laminitis.Win a Tub of ColiFlex Joint and Digestive SupplementThree lucky winners* will each receive a 3kg tub of ColiFLEX that contains a combination of scientifically proven ingredients to help alleviate joint and gastric issues in one easy to feed supplement.This unique formulation contains 50% Coligone, which uses natural active ingredients to support optimum digestion of the joint care supplement ingredients. Suitable for all equines, ColiFlex offers targeted nutrition to promote joint flexibility and integrity.This unique supplement provides a beneficial combination of key nutrients including glucosamine, hyaluronic acid, MSM, omega-3 and vitamin C and E that help to provide the building blocks to support healthy, strong and flexible joints.Enter hereClosing date is 10 October 2024*UK only.The post Win Supplements and Turnout Rugs appeared first on Your Horse.

Our nutrition expert offers care and feeding tips for a thin senior horse before the cold weather hits.The post Helping Old Horses Gain Weight Before Winter appeared first on The Horse.

The following is written by Kate Hore RNutr(Animal) R.Anim.Technol (Cert). Head Nutritionist at NAFAs we head into autumn, those chilled-out, hazy days of summer can seem a distant memory. Circumstances conspire which can result a sharper, more reactive horse.Horses who have spent the summer living out 24/7 may now find themselves with increased time stabled, and a change of diet away from ad lib pasture towards more preserved forages and the need for bucket feeds. An unnatural diet can challenge gut health, leading to a dysbiosis (imbalance) of the hindgut microbiota, which in turn can negatively impact mood and behaviour along the gut-brain axis which allows the hindgut microbes to directly influence the brain, and vice versa.Alongside a change of regime, and knock-on dietary changes we often see changes to exercise patterns at this time of year. Poorer weather and shorter daylight days, can mean less exercise, particularly during the week, again potentially influencing your horses focus when you do want to ride.Autumn SeasonOf course, when you do get saddle time, there is much to get excited about at this time of year. Autumn fun rides can be hugely fun for both horse and rider or the move to indoor competing. All plenty for your horse to get excited about. While enthusiasm is key to a successful season, we do want to ensure that focus stays forward and doesnt bubble over into reactiveness or lack of concentration.Award winning NAF Five Star Magic is the ideal choice for those horses who benefit from natural targeted support for focus, learning and concentration. Proven to not sedate your horse or pony in any way, Magic instead supports your horses learning and confidence, as we firmly believe once they understand what is expected of them they can focus and go forward.Magic has been independently trialled and verified, with a peer reviewed and published paper, by the respected academics at The Royal Agricultural University, Cirencester. The results showed improved learning and reduced reactivity, and as lead researcher, Dr Andrew Hemmings concluded: Still your horse just more trainable.NAF Five Star MagicMagic Liquid provides a powerful, fast acting herbal formula in an easy to feed solution.Use Instant Magic for when speed countsMagic Powder combines herbal support with bioavailable magnesium and gut friendly nutrients for a stable microbiome, and settled gut-brain axis.The UnexpectedThis time of year can also be full of the unexpected, particularly for your horse or pony, who thrive on routine; but the only spooks we want to see are the ghosts and ghouls of Halloween!If you know your horse is likely to be meeting the unexpected this season, whether Halloween, Bonfire Night or Diwali, be prepared. Minimise changes as much as possible, maybe talking to neighbours who are holding a party to help them understand the risk to horses, and see what can be done to reduce those surprises. Keep your horse in their normal routine as much as possible, feeding ad-lib hay to keep them occupied. If stabled, consider leaving a light on and some music on the yard for distraction. For reactive types it may be advised to feed a short term natural calmer, just to give your horse that extra bit of thinking space, allowing them to work out that while its a loud noise, its not actually hurting them. If you feel your horse is particularly likely to panic and become upset, then discuss with your vet what your best options are. They may advise use of a sedative, or even moving your horse for the night.If the display is close to your land, dont forget to carry out a check of your fields the following morning and clear any debris which could be potentially dangerous for your horse.Explore NAFs complete range of supplements and grooming products on our website, in our app, and at our Totnes Store. Regularly feeding NAF Supplements to your horse? Sign up to ourStride Membershipfor free premium delivery on all orders over 20*! Shop all NAF The post For Whatevers Round the Corner this Winter, Theres NAF Five Star Magic first appeared on Redpost Equestrian Blog.

Topic Details Best Smaller Cars for Towing Subaru Outback: Towing capacity up to 2,700 pounds, good fuel efficiency, reliable AWD system. Toyota Corolla: Towing capacity around 1,500 pounds, known for good gas mileage, reliable performance. Hyundai Elantra: Potential towing capacity over 3,000 pounds (varies by model year and trim). Volkswagen Arteon: Towing capacity up to 2,000 pounds, suitable for smaller trailers. Subaru Forester: Towing capacity up to 1,500 pounds, known for AWD system, good fuel efficiency. Key Considerations Engine Power: More powerful engines can tow heavier loads. Transmission and Drivetrain: Type affects towing capability (FWD, RWD, AWD). Braking System: Essential for safe towing, especially with heavier loads. Suspension and Chassis: Must be sturdy to handle the stress of towing. Tips for Safe Towing with Smaller Cars Check the Vehicle's Specifications: Refer to the owner's manual for towing ratings. Use the Right Hitch: Ensure compatibility and proper fit, typically a 1.5" hitch for smaller cars. Load Distribution: Properly distribute trailer weight to avoid stress. Regular Maintenance: Keep braking system, suspension, and engine well-maintained. Conclusion Smaller cars can safely and reliably tow lighter loads without the need for a full-size vehicle. Models like the Subaru Outback, Toyota Corolla, Hyundai Elantra, Volkswagen Arteon, and Subaru Forester are excellent options. Always ensure your vehicle is rated for towing and follow safe practices. Which Are the Best Smaller Cars for Safe and Reliable Towing? When it comes to towing, many assume that only large trucks and SUVs are capable of the task. However, several smaller cars can safely and reliably tow lighter loads. Whether you need to transport small trailers, boats, or other equipment, you don't always need a full-size vehicle. In this article, we'll explore some of the best smaller cars for towing, considering towing capacity, fuel efficiency, and overall reliability. Understanding Towing Capacity Before diving into specific models, it's crucial to understand towing capacity. Towing capacity is determined by the vehicle's manufacturer based on factors such as chassis strength, suspension tuning, braking capability, engine cooling capacity, and horsepower. Key Considerations Engine Power: A vehicle's engine power is a significant factor in its towing capacity. Generally, vehicles with more powerful engines can tow heavier loads. Transmission and Drivetrain: The type of transmission and drivetrain (e.g., front-wheel drive, rear-wheel drive, all-wheel drive) also affects towing capability. Braking System: A robust braking system is essential for safe towing, especially when dealing with heavier loads. Suspension and Chassis: The vehicle's suspension and chassis must be sturdy enough to handle the weight and stress of towing. Best Smaller Cars for Towing Subaru Outback The Subaru Outback is a popular choice for those who need to tow occasionally. It offers a towing capacity of up to 2,700 pounds, making it suitable for small trailers and boats. The Outback also provides good fuel efficiency and a reliable all-wheel-drive system, making it an excellent option for both daily driving and towing. Toyota Corolla While not as common for towing, the Toyota Corolla can handle light loads. It has a towing capacity of around 1,500 pounds, which is sufficient for small utility trailers or lightweight boats. The Corolla is known for its good gas mileage and reliable performance. Hyundai Elantra In some configurations, the Hyundai Elantra has been rated for towing over 3,000 pounds, although this may vary depending on the model year and specific trim. This makes it a viable option for those who need to tow moderate-sized trailers. Volkswagen Arteon The Volkswagen Arteon is a mid-size car that offers a respectable towing capacity. While not as high as some SUVs or trucks, it can handle loads up to 2,000 pounds, making it suitable for smaller trailers and equipment. Subaru Forester Similar to the Outback, the Subaru Forester is another reliable option for towing. It has a towing capacity of up to 1,500 pounds and is known for its all-wheel-drive system and good fuel efficiency. Tips for Safe Towing with Smaller Cars Check the Vehicle's Specifications Always refer to the vehicle's owner's manual or manufacturer's specifications to ensure the car is rated for towing and to find out its maximum towing capacity. Use the Right Hitch Ensure that the tow hitch is correctly fitted and compatible with your vehicle. A 1.5" hitch is often recommended for smaller vehicles to accommodate bike racks and other accessories. Load Distribution Properly distribute the weight of the trailer to avoid uneven stress on the vehicle's suspension and chassis. Regular Maintenance Keep your vehicle well-maintained, especially the braking system, suspension, and engine, to ensure safe towing. Conclusion While smaller cars may not offer the same towing capacity as larger trucks and SUVs, several models can safely and reliably tow lighter loads. The Subaru Outback, Toyota Corolla, Hyundai Elantra, Volkswagen Arteon, and Subaru Forester are all viable options for those who need to tow occasionally without the need for a full-size vehicle. Always ensure that your vehicle is rated for towing and follow safe towing practices to avoid any potential risks. By choosing the right smaller car for your towing needs and following safe towing practices, you can enjoy the benefits of towing without the necessity of a larger vehicle. Additional Resources Jodhpur Collection Horse Riding Boot Collection Horse Riding Gloves Collection Horse Riding Socks Collection Horse Treats and Gifts Everyday Horse Vitamins & Supplements Stable Rugs Turnout Rugs Horse Fly Protection About Just Horse Riders Just Horse Riders specializes in Horse Riding Equipment/Apparel and Equestrian Supplements. For more information, visit our homepage. References Car Talk Community: "Smallest vehicle that can tow" iSeeCars: "Best Towing Vehicles for 2024" SailNet Community: "Good small tow vehicles"

Photo courtesy American Horse PublicationsCharlottesville, Va. American Horse Publications (AHP) is excited to announce Dallas, Texas as the destination for its 2025 Equine Media Conference, to be held May 15-17, 2025, at the Doubletree Galleria Dallas.The board of directors of AHP is really excited about next years venue, explained AHP president Barrie Reightler. We are ready to jump into planning our 2025 annual conference and bring our members together for a classic AHP experience.This members only AHP event features three days of educational sessions and unique opportunities to build industry relationships.The AHP conference never disappoints, said past attendee and sponsor Rebecca Didier of Trafalgar Square Books. Providing valuable networking opportunities and continuing to grow our businesses and careers ensures a thriving equine media industry and a positive, supportive community we can learn from and enjoy. It is absolutely worth being a member and attending the conference.Information about the schedule, speakers, and registration details will be available in early 2025. In the meantime, current AHP members are encouraged to save the date, and prospective members involved in equine content creation, publishing, and marketing are invited to join AHP to gain access to this valuable experience and many other member benefits. Learn more here.Edited Press Release | Source: American Horse PublicationsThe post AHP Announces Dallas as 2025 Equine Media Conference Location appeared first on Horse Illustrated Magazine.

Two veterinarians describe how you can assure funds for your horses care should you die before they do. The post Planning for Your Horses Future After Youre Gone appeared first on The Horse.