Finesse Bridles have been created to allow your horse to perform at their best, by eliminating pressure points on sensitive areas of the face and allowing greater freedom of movement. Well known and respected Grand Prix Dressage rider, Cathrine Dufour has worked with Finesse and tested these bridles for over 2 years on several of her horses. Cathrine provided invaluable input into the design and fit details and helped ensure that correct adjustments were made. This long term collaboration and testing has resulted in a bridle collection that truly delivers on style, functionality, and above all comfort for the horse.The Finesse range also includes a gorgeous range of handmade Big Stone Browbands to allow you to bring a personal touch to your horses tack, and throughout October 2024 these can be customised to perfectly match your style! Choose from an array of beautiful Swarovski crystal colours to create your dream design.Step 1 Size: Firstly, you need to choose the size of your Finesse Browband. Pony, Cob, Full and Extra Full are available.Step 2 Leather Colour: Next, pick from soft and supple black or brown leather to match your horses bridle.Step 3 Crystal Colours: This is the exciting part! Now you can choose the colour/s for your Finesse Browband. Will you stick to all one colour, alternate between two tones, or let your imagination run free with a mixture? Choose from the following colours and check out some inspiration:GreyBronzeGoldenChampagneEmeraldLight GreenBlackPinkRose PeachTanzaniteDenim BlueAqua MarineCrystalLight AmethystAmethystDark RedSapphireMontanaReady to create your own Finesse Crystal Browband? Our trained team here at Redpost can guide you through the design process from start to finish. Fill in our Contact Form below to get started, or call 01803 812040. Contact Form The post Create Your Own Finesse Crystal Browband first appeared on Redpost Equestrian Blog.

See the full results of each auction here 27 September - Jumping horses and youngsters 28 September - Foals 29 September - Dressage horses and youngstersThe post Results of Westfalen Golden Autumn auction appeared first on Breeding News for Sport Horses.

This holiday season, we are thrilled to announce the return of our extended Christmas returns offer! Now you can shop for all your Christmas gifts with confidence, knowing that you have until Wednesday 8th January to return or exchange any items. Take the stress out of your holiday shopping and enjoy the flexibility of our extended returns policy. Start your Christmas Shopping Today! Our top tips for Christmas ShoppingStart your Christmas shopping early to avoid the last-minute rush and ensure you have time to find the perfect gifts for your loved ones.Look for extended returns periods (just in case it doesnt fit!)Dont forget to consider shipping times if you are ordering gifts online to ensure they arrive in time for Christmas.Set a budget for your Christmas shopping to help you stay on track and avoid overspending.Take advantage of Black Friday!Terms and Conditions Apply. The post Extended Christmas Returns is back! first appeared on Redpost Equestrian Blog.

Section Key Points Exploring the Best BYOH Holiday Destinations with Guided Hacks BYOH holidays are great for horse enthusiasts; bring your own horse for unique riding adventures. Understanding BYOH Holidays Enjoy guided hacks in scenic locations; comfort and familiarity of your own horse. Essential Elements of a BYOH Holiday Self-catering accommodation for you and facilities for your horse. Guided hacks for security and better enjoyment. Scenic routes with varied scenery and good canters. Top Destinations for BYOH Holidays The Chilterns, UK - Rolling hills, woodlands, and picturesque villages. Northumberland, UK - Coastal and countryside rides, historic sites. Ireland - Extensive riding trails and green landscapes. Planning Your BYOH Holiday Check your calendar and plan travel dates in advance. Use tools like Google Sheets and Trello for organization. Be flexible with travel dates for better deals. Preparing Your Horse Health checks and vaccinations. Safe and comfortable transportation. Acclimatization to new climate and terrain. Conclusion Choose the right destination, plan carefully, and prepare your horse for a memorable experience. Exploring the Best BYOH Holiday Destinations with Guided Hacks If you're a horse enthusiast looking for a unique and enjoyable holiday experience, a Bring Your Own Horse (BYOH) vacation with guided hacks could be the perfect choice. Heres a guide to help you find the best destinations for such an adventure, ensuring you have a memorable and stress-free experience. Understanding BYOH Holidays A BYOH holiday allows you to bring your own horse and enjoy guided hacks in beautiful and often scenic locations. This type of holiday is ideal for those who want to explore new areas on horseback while having the comfort and familiarity of their own horse. Essential Elements of a BYOH Holiday When searching for the perfect BYOH holiday destination, there are several key elements to consider: Self-Catering Accommodation: Look for places that offer self-catering accommodation for you and your family, as well as suitable facilities for your horse, including stables and paddocks. Guided Hacks: A guided hack is essential, especially if you or your companions are not familiar with the area or prefer the security of a guide. This ensures you can enjoy the scenery without worrying about getting lost or missing out on the best routes. Scenic Routes: Opt for destinations that offer interesting and varied scenery, including opportunities for good canters and enjoyable riding experiences. Top Destinations for BYOH Holidays Here are some top recommendations for BYOH holiday destinations that offer guided hacks and meet the above criteria: The Chilterns, UK The Chilterns Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) is a fantastic destination for horse riding. With its rolling hills, woodlands, and picturesque villages, it offers a serene and beautiful backdrop for your guided hacks. Many stables and self-catering accommodations in the area cater specifically to BYOH holidays, ensuring you have everything you need for a comfortable stay. The Chilterns map: [Map of the Chilterns](https://www.example.com) Northumberland, UK Northumberland is known for its stunning landscapes and historic sites. Places like Bamburgh, Alnwick, and Lindisfarne (Holy Island) offer a mix of coastal and countryside rides. Many local stables provide guided hacks, and there are plenty of self-catering accommodations available that welcome horses and their owners. Visit Northumberland: [Northumberland Coastlines](https://www.example.com) Ireland Ireland is renowned for its green landscapes and friendly hospitality. Counties like Wicklow and Kildare offer extensive riding trails and guided hacks through some of Ireland's most beautiful countryside. Many equestrian centers and farms provide self-catering accommodation and stable facilities for BYOH holidays. Experience Ireland: [Irish Countryside](https://www.example.com) Planning Your BYOH Holiday To ensure your holiday is well-organized and enjoyable, here are some tips to keep in mind: Check Your Calendar Plan your travel dates well in advance to ensure you have enough time to prepare. This includes arranging for your horse's transportation, booking accommodations, and scheduling guided hacks. Use the Right Tools Utilize tools like Google Sheets to manage your itinerary, including flight details, accommodation bookings, and guided hack schedules. Tools like Trello can help you organize tasks related to your trip, such as packing lists and travel arrangements. Flexibility Be flexible with your travel dates if possible. This can help you secure better deals on accommodations and guided hacks. However, if you have specific dates in mind, make sure to book early to avoid disappointment. Preparing Your Horse Before embarking on your BYOH holiday, it's crucial to ensure your horse is well-prepared: Health Checks: Ensure your horse is in good health and has all necessary vaccinations and documentation. Transportation: Arrange for safe and comfortable transportation for your horse to the destination. Acclimatization: If traveling to a new region, consider acclimatizing your horse to the local climate and terrain before the holiday. Conclusion A BYOH holiday with guided hacks can be a wonderful way to explore new places while enjoying the company of your horse. By choosing the right destination, planning carefully, and preparing your horse, you can ensure a memorable and enjoyable experience. Whether you opt for the scenic trails of the Chilterns, the historic landscapes of Northumberland, or the lush countryside of Ireland, these destinations offer a perfect blend of adventure and relaxation for both you and your horse. --- For more detailed information on planning and organizing your BYOH holiday, you can refer to the following 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

Horse Sport Ireland has announced the team of horses that will represent the Irish WBFSH Studbooks at the FEI WBFSH World Breeding Eventing Championships for Young Horses 2024. The Championship will be held atLe Lion DAngers from the 17th to 24th October 2024. Further information about the championships can be found here Six Year Olds Belline Thistle Bethelasttime (ISH). Mare by Grafenstolz (TRAK) out of Karmyn (ISH), by Kannan (KWPN). Bred by Johnston Brodie, Co. Wexford, owned by Richard Ames and ridden by Robbie Kearns (IRL) Independent Article (ISH): Gelding by Tyson (KWPN) out of Sassie Cassie (ISH), by Cascaletto St. Ghyvan Z (ZANG). Bred and owned by Margaret Kinsella, Co. Galway and ridden by Cathal Daniels (IRL). Kief Rhapsody of Belline (ISH): Gelding by Sligo Candy Boy (ISH) out of Lissangle Lux The Business (ISH) by Lux Z (HANN). Bred by Kieran Fahey, Co. Cork, owned by Jenny Curley []

Irish breeders take majority of Top placings in the CCI classes at Little Downham, while Irish breeding swamps Novice classes across the results giving confidence for the future of the breed code. See below this weeks Eventing results for Irish Sport Horses. Little Downham International and One Day Event (GBR) 28th 29th September 2024 CCI 4* Short K 1st Ballaghmor Class (ISH) 2007 gelding Courage II (HOLST) out of Kilderry Place (ISH). Breeder: Noel Hickey (Limerick). Rider: Oliver Townend (GBR) 26.0, 0.4, 6.4 = 32.8 4th MHS Seventeen (ISH) 2013 gelding by Callahan (HANN) out of MHS Dancing Queen (ISH) by Quidam Junior I (KWPN). Breeder: Mary Brennan (Kilkenny). Rider: Rosalind Canter (GBR) 30.2, 0, 8.4 = 38.6 5th Chapel House (ISH)[was Dicksgrove Heartbeat] 2014 gelding by Sibon W (KWPN) out of Dicksgrove Coleen (ISH). Breeder: John OSullivan (Kerry). Rider: Sam Ecroyd (GBR) 31.9, 4, 4.4 []

The RSPCA has reported a rehoming crisis on day one of its month-long Adoptober rehoming campaign (1 October). Its animal intake is now 42% higher than the number of animals being successful adopted into new homes and the situation is described as being critical.In the first six months of this year, the RSPCA took in 32% more equines compared to the number rescued during the first half of 2023. The number of dogs and cats rescued also increased significantly, at 21% and 16% respectively.Our rescue centres are jam-packed, and weve been seeing more animals coming to us than we are rehoming, said Karen Colman, who leads the charitys team finding places for rescued animals.We urge anyone considering adding a pet to their family to step in and help by giving a rescue pet a second chance instead of buying from breeders.Our rehoming centres have reached crisis point and are full to bursting, creating a bottle neck where were having to care for rescued animals.Cost of living influencesThe RSPCA hopes Adoptober will increase adoption rates across England and Wales by celebrating the benefits of rescue pets and highlighting the animals that are waiting to find their forever home.Our 14 national centres prioritise animals rescued from cruelty and neglect, added Karen. They are the animals which need the most help with veterinary and behavioural care to rehabilitate them.These most vulnerable animals take time to recover from the cruelty and neglect they have experienced so its even more rewarding to see them ready to find loving new homes where they will be lavished with the love they deserve, and we hope even more will get to experience that during Adoptober.She also said that concerns about the cost of living remains an influencing factor in people giving up their animals.Our amazing teams are doing all they can. Our 135 independently run branches continue to rehome at a phenomenal pace and we are extremely proud of the work that they do, continued Karen.They play a vital role in local communities across England and Wales and whilst they feel the pressure of taking in more animals they have done an incredible job finding so many loving new homes.If you are interesting in rehoming a horse, pony or other animal, search those seeking a new home here.Seeking a new homeOlivia is seeking a new homeTwo ponies currently on the rehoming list are Olivia, a coloured Welsh part-bred mare, and River, a piebald cob.Three-year-old Olivia is a very sweet and affectionate 13hh mare who needs a calm, patient owner. She is easy to catch, lead, groom and pick out her feet. She is up to date with vaccinations, worming, teeth and trimming.Find out more about OliviaRiver (pictured top) is a 12.2hh three-year-old who is very quiet to handle. She lives out 24/7 but is happy to be stabled. The RSPCA believe she would benefit from a one-to-one situation so that she has her own person in order to fulfill her potential.River is up to date with her vaccinations, teeth, worming and is micro-chipped and passported.Find out more about RiverImages RSPCARelated contentHow to take care of a horseWhich type of bedding is best for your horse?Research paints worrying picture for owners due to cost of living crisisCharity mourns once-neglected Sheltand who leaves a hoofprint in our heartsBan for man who left pony tied up in car park while he went to the pubThe post RSPCA reports rehoming crisis as animal intake nearly doubles those finding new homes appeared first on Your Horse.

View this post on InstagramA post shared by Richard and Victoria Jones (@team.jones.equestrian)A very happy retirement beckons for stalwart five-star horse Alfies Clover, who weve so enjoyed seeing blazing around the Big Bs with Richard Jones in the irons. I love this post from Richard and his team, which really shows what a broad group effort it is to get a horse to this level. They really do form families around them, and were all so lucky to be in their orbit.Events Opening Today:Full Moon Farms Fall HT, The Event at TerraNovaEvents Closing Today:Hagyard Midsouth Three-day Event,MARS Maryland 5 Star at Fair Hill presented by Brown Advisory,Ram Tap National H.T., Windermere Run H.T.,Willow Draw Charity ShowNews & Notes from Around the World:Plenty of different fence profiles can be collapsible and now, trakehners join their ranks.Osberton International in the UK will debut a frangible trakehner at their venue next week in both the two-star and three-star courses. Heres how they made it work.Us horsey folks are, well, a touch unique.Or certainly, we all show up smelling quite unique in circumstances we probably oughtnt to, anyway. I enjoyed this ode to that special brand of horse-person looniness here, and I reckon youll get that little ripple of familiarity too.On that note, your family might not be as keen as you are on your horse habit.So how do you make it something you can all enjoy together? Is that even possible? Heres some food for thought.Recent incidents have prompted a change to some key wording in rule GR838 in the USEF rulebook.This is the rule that, specifically, focuses on the abuse and mistreatment of horses, and the rewrite will come into effect in December in a bid to better protect the equines within its remit. You can read the revision here.Sponsor Corner:Should you be adjusting your horses diet for seasonal changes? A horses dietary requirements can shift based on season, and there are a few things you can do to assess your current program and make adjustments as appropriate. Learn more with Kentucky Performance Products here.Watch This:Catch up with Moroccos Noor Slaoui after her history-making turn at the Paris Olympics:

Key Points Description Types of Loans Full Loan: Loanee takes full responsibility and cost. Part Loan: Shared care and cost with the owner. Permanent Loan: Full responsibility by loanee, owner retains ownership. Responsibilities Financial Commitment: Includes livery, veterinary, and other expenses. Veterinary Care: Agreement should outline who decides on treatments and who covers the costs. Insurance: Public liability insurance is essential for loanee. Risks Disputes Over Costs: Common disagreements over expenses. Change in Circumstances: Notice periods can be short, impacting both parties. Welfare of the Horse: Ensuring the horse adjusts well to new environments and is well cared for. Benefits Reduced Financial Burden: No initial purchase costs. Retaining Ownership: Owners maintain control while ensuring care. Flexibility: Part loans offer shared responsibility and costs. Tips for Success Draft Comprehensive Agreement: Outlines duration, responsibilities, and restrictions. Choose the Right Loanee: Ensure trustworthy and capable care. Consider Insurance: Essential for protection against liabilities. Conclusion Weigh risks and responsibilities; careful planning and communication are key for a rewarding experience. Is Loaning a Pony Worth the Risk and Responsibility? Loaning a pony can be a viable and appealing option for both those who want to care for a horse without the long-term commitment of ownership and for owners who need to ensure their horse is well cared for while they are unable to do so themselves. However, it is crucial to weigh the risks and responsibilities involved in this arrangement to determine if it is the right choice for you. Understanding the Types of Loans Before diving into the risks and responsibilities, it's essential to understand the different types of loan agreements available. Full Loan A full loan agreement involves the loanee taking on full financial responsibility and care for the horse. This typically means the horse will be moved to the loanee's yard, and the loanee will be responsible for all costs, including livery, healthcare, and other expenses. Part Loan A part loan is a more flexible arrangement where the loanee shares the care of the horse with the owner. The horse usually stays at the owner's yard, and the loanee pays a contribution towards the horse's upkeep. This can range from one day to several days a week, depending on the agreement. Permanent Loan In a permanent loan, the loanee takes on all responsibility and costs, but the owner retains ownership. This type of loan can continue indefinitely as long as the horse is well cared for. Responsibilities of Loaning a Pony Loaning a pony is not a decision to be taken lightly, as it comes with significant responsibilities. Financial Commitment One of the primary responsibilities is the financial commitment. Whether it's a full or part loan, the loanee will need to budget for various costs such as livery, veterinary care, farrier services, and other expenses. The average cost of loaning a horse can vary greatly depending on the type of agreement and the horse's needs. Veterinary Care Deciding on veterinary treatment is a critical aspect of loaning a pony. The loan agreement should clearly outline who has the authority to decide on the horses veterinary treatment, especially in emergency situations. It is also important to determine who will cover the costs of veterinary care and whether the horse will be insured. Insurance Public liability insurance is essential for any loanee, as they will be responsible for any damage the horse causes to a third partys person or property. Ensuring that the loanee has the correct insurance in place can provide peace of mind and protect against potential liabilities. Risks Involved While loaning a pony can be beneficial, there are several risks to consider. Disputes Over Costs One of the most common disputes arises over who pays for what, especially when it comes to large vet bills. A well-drafted loan agreement can mitigate this risk by clearly outlining the financial responsibilities of both parties. Change in Circumstances Loaning agreements often include a notice period, which can be as short as 30 days. This means the loanee could lose the horse with little notice if the owner decides to terminate the agreement. Similarly, the owner must be prepared to take the horse back if the loanee is unable to continue caring for it. Welfare of the Horse The welfare of the horse is paramount. Ensuring that the horse is happy and healthy in its new environment is crucial. This includes considering whether the horse will adjust well to a new home, whether it gets along with other horses, and if it has any special needs. Benefits of Loaning Despite the risks and responsibilities, there are several benefits to loaning a pony. Reduced Financial Burden Loaning a pony removes the initial purchase expense, making it a more accessible option for those who cannot afford to buy a horse outright. It also allows owners to share the costs of caring for their horse without having to sell it. Retaining Ownership For owners, loaning allows them to maintain ultimate control over their horses future while ensuring the horse is well cared for. This is particularly beneficial for owners who are temporarily unable to care for their horse due to travel, injury, or other commitments. Flexibility Part loans offer flexibility for both owners and loanees, allowing them to share the responsibilities and costs according to their schedules and commitments. This can be an excellent way to get used to owning a horse without the full-time commitment. Tips for a Successful Loan To ensure a successful and smooth loaning experience, here are some key tips: Draft a Comprehensive Loan Agreement A written loan agreement is essential. It should cover all aspects of the loan, including the duration, financial responsibilities, veterinary care, insurance, and any restrictions on the horses use. Choose the Right Loanee For owners, it is crucial to find a trustworthy and capable loanee who can provide the necessary care and attention. Regular visits and open communication can help maintain a positive relationship and ensure the horses welfare. Consider Insurance Public liability insurance is vital to protect against any potential liabilities. Ensuring that the loanee has this insurance can provide peace of mind for both parties. Conclusion Loaning a pony can be a rewarding experience for both owners and loanees, but it is not without its risks and responsibilities. By understanding the different types of loans, being aware of the financial and care commitments, and taking steps to mitigate potential risks, you can make an informed decision about whether loaning a pony is right for you. Ultimately, the key to a successful loan is careful planning, clear communication, and a commitment to the welfare of the horse. With the right approach, loaning a pony can be a beneficial and enjoyable experience for all involved. For detailed information on the logistics of loaning a horse, you can refer to resources from Horse and Country, Harry Hall, and World Horse Welfare.```html```

ADVERTISEMENT FEATUREAs summer fades away and the evenings draw in, it is a good time to review your horses feeding plan and diet in preparation for the winter ahead.There are three key areas to consider:Your horses weightPlanning what forage to useEnsuring your horse continues to have a balanced food ration.Lets look at those in more detailHows your horses weight?The first thing to assess is your horses body weight and level of fat cover. How have they done over the summer?If you are having to press much harder to feel your horses skeleton when fat scoring it is an indicator your horse is carrying excess weight and the focus over the coming months should be on weight loss.Here is a short video about how to fat score your horse or pony:Grass intakeIf you routinely restrict your horses grass intake to help manage their weight, then dont be fooled into thinking you can start to relax their grazing management just yet.The cooler but mild and moist conditions in autumn after a drier summer can result in a seasonal flush of grass growth that can result in rapid weight gain.An increase in the amount of grass available also means an increase in the intake of non-structural carbohydrates (NSC).This is an analytical term for the sum of starch plus water-soluble carbohydrates (WSC), which is simple sugars plus fructans added together.Those that are particularly prone to laminitis due to underlying insulin dysregulation may need removing to a no-grass area at this time of year to manage their intake of NSC and therefore laminitis risk, as well as their weight.What forage have you got?Over the coming months, the reliance on conserved forages increases as your horse spends longer in the stable.One of the key challenges for good doers and those that are laminitis prone who need to lose weight is feeding sufficient forage to maintain digestive and behavioural health whilst encouraging weight loss.At a minimum, all horses and ponies should have access to 1.5% of their bodyweight on a dry matter basis daily.Whilst some dietary restrictions may be required to encourage weight loss, first and foremost we should focus on using the lowest calorie forage available to allow a greater quantity of forage to be used to keep your horse happy.In the UK, our forage choice is between haylage, hay, and straw.Hay, haylage or straw?Haylage tends to be the most digestible and therefore most calorific option as the grass is cut at an earlier botanical age. Hay sits between haylage and straw in its digestibility and therefore calorie level.One advantage of hay is that it can be soaked in water to encourage the loss of WSC further reducing its calorie level.Here is a short video explaining the difference between hay and haylage:Straw as forageStraw is the lowest calorie option for horses as it is cut when the plant is mature and it also contains a larger amount of an indigestible type of fibre called lignin.When using typical energy values for straw and average hay, replacing 50% of hay with straw can reduce energy intake by around 20%.If straw replaces even higher energy value forages like haylage, the reduction in energy intake can be even greater.Some people are reluctant to try straw in their forage ration as they have heard that it increases the risk of impaction colic and gastric ulcers.Whilst we do need to be mindful of the colic risk, the biggest threat may be from a sudden dietary change, or from a horse that is unable to chew efficiently.If you want to try straw as part of your horses forage ration the key advice is that your horse must have good dentition, and that straw must be introduced gradually to the feeding regime.Research by Jansson et al (2021)* has shown that feeding up to 50% of the forage ration as straw is acceptable and doesnt increase the risk of Equine Gastric Ulcer Syndrome (EGUS).They also found in this study that the use of straw slowed the rate of eating so significantly that the insulinemic response was negligible.This is particularly beneficial for those that are laminitis prone due to underlying insulin dysregulation further supporting the use of straw for laminitis and weight management.Low calorie forage replacersHere is a short video about feeding low calorie forage replacers:Whist using straw and soaking hay are very useful methods to aid weight control and help to manage laminitis risk, unfortunately there are times when they arent a practical option.Lack of availability or poor hygienic quality of straw is common and freezing winter conditions make it impossible to soak your hay. This is where products like Dengie Meadow Lite with Herbs can be a more practical alternative.Dengie Meadow Lite with HerbsDengie Meadow Lite with Herbs is our lowest calorie fibre feed at only 5MJ/kg Digestible Energy. It combines chopped straw and grasses with pea hull fibre, a rapeseed and linseed oil coating, cinnamon, thyme and postbiotics.Meadow Lite with Herbs is low in sugar and starch at 3% and 0.5% respectively, making it suitable for those that are laminitis-prone and watching their weight.Once gradually introduced to the feeding regime, it can be used as a total forage replacer if required. It is acceptable to leave a large amount of Meadow Lite with Herbs for your horse to munch on as and when, similar to how you would offer a net of forage.Dividing Meadow Lite with Herbs up into multiple buckets can also help increase foraging time, as can the use of slow feeding devices like a Trickle Net Shake & Graze.Are you providing a balanced diet?UK pasture and conserved forage commonly lack the trace minerals copper, selenium, and zinc as well as Vitamin E for conserved forage.To this end, we look to add these nutrients to the horses bucket feed to provide a balanced ration. This can be achieved by feeding the recommended amount of a fortified feed, such as Dengie Healthy Hooves Molasses Free.For those horses that are good doers, even a low-calorie fortified feed supplies too many calories. A feed balancer or broad-spectrum vitamin and mineral supplement can be used alongside a low-calorie fibre feed such as Dengie Hi-Fi Molasses Free.Dengie Hi-Fi Molasses Free combines chopped and pelleted alfalfa and straw with a rapeseed oil coating, mint, and fenugreek.Hi-Fi Molasses Free is one of Dengies lower calorie fibre feeds at 8.5MJ/kg Digestible Energy with only 2.5% sugar and 1.5% starch.Dengie Hi-Fi Molasses Free can be used as a bucket feed or as a partial forage replacer up to 1kg per 100kg of bodyweight.Merlin: managing calorie intakeMerlin is a 14.2hh Connemara who is schooled and hacked three or four times per week for approximately 30-45 minutes a session, with some longer hacks.His owner, Lisa, is always working hard to keep Merlins weight in check and she strip grazes him all year round to limit his calorie intake.However, he still tends to gain a bit of weight through the summer. Merlin is fed a double handful of Hi-Fi Molasses Free with a low-calorie balancer daily to provide him with a balanced ration.Merlin has some stable time all year round, but this increases through the autumn into the winter as the daylight hours decrease and the change in weather means it is trickier to maintain a grass strip that doesnt turn to mud.Lisa hates the thought of Merlin standing without anything to eat, but she is aware that offering Merlin ad-lib hay is likely to provide more calories than his grass strip, so she tries to find a balance between the two.A diet that worksStraw isnt easily available for Lisa to buy or store at her yard, so she offers Merlin some additional Dengie Meadow Lite with Herbs alongside his hay ration as a lower-calorie alternative.The amount used varies, but when Merlin is only out for four hours on his strip, Lisa offers him 1.5% of his body weight on a dry matter basis to ensure he has his minimum forage requirements.At 450kg, this is 6.75kg dry matter or 7.5kg as fed assuming the forage is around 90% dry matter.Lisa typically provides this as 5.5kg of hay and 2kg (eight large round Stubbs scoops) of Meadow Lite with Herbs. She reduces the hay and increases the Meadow Lite with Herbs on a weight-for-weight basis if she is concerned that Merlin isnt losing the weight he needs to over winter.Lisa leaves the greatest proportion of hay in a greedy feeder net for the overnight period. She uses a smaller amount of hay and the Meadow Lite with Herbs for the daytime, which is divided into a couple of feeds to keep Merlin occupied for as long as possible.For further information or advice contact the Dengie Feedline 01621 841188 or visit www.dengie.comImages/videos Your Horse Library/Dengie Horse Feeds/ShutterstockSources*Jansson, A., Harris, P., Davey, S.L., Luthersson, N., Ragnarsson, S., Ringmark, S. (2021) Straw as an Alternative to Grass Forage in HorsesEffects on Post-Prandial Metabolic Profile, Energy Intake, Behaviour and Gastric Ulceration. Animals 2021, 11, 2197.Related contentAccuracy of weigh tapes for horses can vary by more than 20%, finds studyHow to condition safely when feeding your horse this winter *PROMOTION*Breaking the stereotype: concern about overweight horses being gastric ulcer prone is on the riseThe post Three key areas to review for a healthy horse this autumn with Dengie Horse Feeds *PROMOTION* appeared first on Your Horse.