Mid Week Show Jumping League Classes for everyone from 30cms to 1MFabulous prizes at the final and sashes!Points accumulated each week with competitors having to compete in at least 2 weeks plus the f...

When it comes to considering how much weight a horse can carry, the number on the scales is just one factor to consider.There are many things to bear in mind when calculating whether a rider is a suitable size for a horse or pony and matching a jockey to an appropriate mount. These include features of both the rider and the horse, as well as the intended workload and use of the horse, plus the riding conditions, tack fit and more.Assessing how much weight a horse can carry and what a suitable horse riding weight limit is for them is a complicatedtask, but one that should beaddressed when youtake care of a horse if equine welfare is to be prioritised.Size rather than weightUnderstandingwhether a rideris an appropriate weight fortheir horse is a tricky and emotive topic, but one that is becomingly discussed more openly.It is not about whether a rider is fat ornot, its about whether theyre riding ahorse that is fit for the purpose required ofit, says Dr Anne Bondi, founder and director of The Saddle Research Trust.The terms weight andheavy are very emotive, and itsimportant to focus on the recognisedfacts, not emotions.Tall riders are just as likely to have a negative impact, so I think we should talk about rider size, rather than rider weight.How much weight can a horse carry?Dr Bondi devised a traffic lightsystem to help assess whether a horse iscarrying an appropriate load. The systemuses the riders weight ratio, which can becalculated by dividing the riders weight(ideally including tack) by the horses, andexpressing that figure as a percentage.GreenFor optimum performance (working close to or at its physiological limits without significantly increasing his risk of injury) and to be graded green, the horse should be carrying around 10% of their weight.AmberHowever, 15% is a much more common scenario, and this is graded amber.RedHorses carrying 20% of their weight are graded red as their welfare may be compromised.These guidelines are based on knowledge of the research that has taken place in this field to date, but these are my own views, explains Dr Bondi. We do not yet have scientific evidence for definitive figures due to the huge number of variables involved.There is concern about the message such ratios might give because it needs scientific basis, but it may be too complex to ever be able to provide accurate, suitable limits.In the meantime, the industry needs some guidance and I believe that this is a good place to start.Factors affecting horse riding weight limitDr Bondi stresses that each combination of horse and riderwill have different criteria dependingon their circumstances and that weightratios must be considered alongsideother important factors, including:Horse ageIf their musculoskeletal system isimmature, or the horse is a veteran, theywill be at greater risk of strain injury.The horses weight should be optimum.Type of horseThe horse must have a strongenough physique if they are to carry extraweight. Cannon bone circumference canbe used as a guideline, with the idealratio suggested as being 20cm per455kgs of bodyweight.BreedSpecific traits in certain breedscan offer an advantage in somecircumstances. The Arab, for example,has efficient metabolic features andgood running economy that may meanit can carry higher loads over longerdistances more easily.ConformationA dipped back, forexample, is a weakness that can put thehorse at higher risk of strain, whereas awider loin is believed to be desirable forendurance. The horses posture alsoaffects efficiency.Horse soundnessSome pathologicalconditions indicate a horse should becarrying easier (lighter) loads, which affects their horse riding weight limit.Rider sizeIts not just a case of how much weight a horse can carry; the riders weight, heightand the relative length of their limbs totheir upper body all influence thehorses performance throughdistribution of forces.Rider skillIn a balanced posture in thecentre of the saddle, the riders weightwill be close to the horses centre ofmass, and theyll be more able to carry it.The unbalanced load, by being out ofsynchrony with the horses movement,is likely to increase peak forces.Saddle fitAn incorrectly fitted saddle will adverselyaffect weight distribution on the horses back. The designshould contribute to the avoidance ofpeak pressures by providing a large,smooth and soft bearing surface. The weight of the saddle should be included when considering a horse riding weight limit.Horse fitnessFitness and preparation is an important factor. Working ona variety of surfaces and terrain isneeded to avoid repetitive strain injury.Workload (intensity and type)High impact activity increasesforces exerted on the horse by up totwice its own weight, while longerdistances and times make the horsemore vulnerable to injuries.TerrainThe effects of hill work on a horse aresignificantly higher than exercise onthe flat, and energy costs increase assurfaces become more uneven.Environmental factors such as heatshould also be considered.Rider skill and horse riding weight limitIf a rider is too tall for their horse, they could unbalance the horse much more easily and place excessive stress on the horse in the same way [as a too-heavy rider], says equine vet and former BEVA president Lucy Grieve.Although a more skilled rider will be able to maintain balance more easily than an inexperienced one, and so reduce the risk of damage to the horse, the potential is still there and should not be ignored.Riders at any level should endeavour to be the appropriate weight for their horse and/or choose a horse which is appropriate for them, and be as fit and balanced as possible if they wish to avoid putting the horse under undue physical stress and therefore pain.Rider weight: the researchSome studies have inferred that increased rider weight is less influential than other factors.A 1999 study Relationship of body condition score to completion rate during 160 km endurance races sought to find if rider weight influenced completion rate during 160km endurance races.It found that of 360 horses, rider weight and rider weight ratio had no effect on overall completion rates among all horses.It was also found that among the horses successfully completing the course, rider weight and rider weight ratio had no effect on finish time or placing.Another paper, entitled Increased Rider Weight Did Not Induce Changes in Behavior and Physiological Parameters in Horses and published in 2020, evaluated the effect of increased rider weight (+15% and +25% of the regular riders bodyweight) on horse behavioural, physiological and gait symmetry parameters during a standard dressage test.Data from 20 combinations was analysed and the researchers found that increasing the weight of the regular rider by 15% and 25% did not result in significant short-term alterations in the measured parameters.They stressed that maximum rider:horse weight ratios were 15-23% and the exercise intensity was relatively low; thus the results should not be applied to other weight ratios and exercise intensities.Workload and horse riding weight limitHigh impact work can increase the risk of injury, particularly if coupled with a larger rider. Joint care is essential. Overloading a horse risks damage to support structures of the limb, and hyper-extension of the fetlock, due to the weight of horse and rider, plus the reaction forces of the speed or height of the jump.Horses carrying extra weight are more likely to sustain injury, tire more quickly and make mistakes, explains Dr Bondi.This is not often taken into consideration, but mistakes can be fatal for example in cross-country.While risks are increased by more demanding work, horses in light exercise should also carry an appropriate load.Gentle hacking will have a lower impact on the horse, but if repeated long term with larger loading it can have a cumulative effect.Signs that a horse is carrying too much weightDr Bondi refers to a list of behaviours that are likely to reflect musculoskeletal pain if eight or more are displayed.A study looked at the effects of different rider sizes and found that all the horses demonstrated increased behavioural markers with larger riders, she says.The behaviours include:Repeated changes of head positionHead tiltingGoing in front or behind of the vertical for 10 seconds or longerHolding the ears back for five seconds or moreClosing or half closing the eyes for more than a few secondsFrequent blinkingExposure of the white of the eyeExhibiting an intense stareOpening their mouths for 10 seconds or moreHolding the bit to one sideClamping the tailSwishing the tailA rushed or slowed gaitHindlimbs not following the track of forelimbsRepeated changes of leg in canterSpontaneous changes of gaitRepeated stumbling or toe draggingSudden changes of directionA reluctance to move forwardRearingBuckingAs a vet its become increasingly common for me to see overweight horses and, sadly, we know that the human population has been demonstrating the same trend, adds vet Lucy Grieve.When we look at the effect rider size has on the horse, it can become a specific concern that we ought to be addressing.Awareness is growingAwareness about how much weight a horse or pony can carry is growing. In showing, for instance, several organising committees have cracked down on larger adults competing on small ponies.In 2022, Equestrian Australia revealed its Guide to Horse Capacity to help gauge whether a rider is an appropriate size and weight for their mount.Last year, The Suitably Mounted Group (SMG) launched a survey exploring the factors that should be considered when matching riders with horses or ponies.The SMGs Research Working Group, comprising Dr David Marlin, Dr Jane Williams and Lorna Cameron, devised the survey to capture the views of equestrians about which factors are the most important to consider when aiming to match riders with horses.The results of the survey will be shared by Your Horse as soon as they are available.There is a horse suitable for most ridersHowever, there is still a lot to be done. Tony Tyler, deputy chief executive of World Horse Welfare, said riders must recognise that every horse has a finite maximum horse riding weight limit it can carry and beyond that discomfort and harm can occur.There is a horse suitable for most riders, and percentage guides are a good starting point, but we must also be aware that each horse needs to be treated as an individual, he says.More research is needed on effects of rider size on the horse in the short- and long-term and, in the meantime, we must listen to our horses and be prepared to acknowledge and make changes if our size is negatively impacting on them in any way.Find out more about The Saddle Research TrustRelated contentHow a horses joints work plus vet advice to keep them healthyIs it bad behaviour or could your horse be asking for help?How to check the fit of your saddle *VIDEO*What you need to know about bridle fit and horse head anatomy *VIDEO*Main image ShutterstockThe post How much weight can a horse carry? appeared first on Your Horse.

The horse lives in Douglas County. The post Nevada Horse Positive for WNV appeared first on The Horse.

The Secret to Boosting Your Horse's Health: Super Solvitax Pure Cod Liver OilAt Just Horse Riders, we know that keeping your horse in peak condition is a top priority. Whether you're focusing on their coat, energy levels, or overall health, supplements like the Super Solvitax Pure Cod Liver Oil are here to help. But why cod liver oil? Well, it turns out this stuff is practically liquid gold for your horse!Why Choose Super Solvitax Pure Cod Liver Oil?Cod liver oil has been used for centuries, even by sailors fighting off scurvy. It was known as a survival tool on the high seas, and for your horse, it offers benefits that go far beyond just survivingthis oil helps them thrive. Packed with vitamins A, D, and E, it's the perfect supplement to enhance your horses health and overall well-being.A Rich Source of Natural EnergyIts a rich source of slow-burning natural energy, says Aaron from Just Horse Riders in our product review video. This means that your horse can enjoy sustained energy without those jittery spikes or crashes. Whether theyre training or performing, this oil gives them the stamina to feel like a marathon runnerbut, as Aaron humorously puts it, without the awkward spandex shorts.Shiny Coat and Bright EyesOne of the most noticeable benefits of cod liver oil is the way it improves your horses appearance. Thanks to the vitamins A, D, and E, your horse will have a healthy coat, bright eyes, firm bones, and strong teeth. According to Aaron, Your horse will look like its just walked out of a beauty salon. And who doesnt want their horse looking show-ready, right?Reduces Dustiness in FeedIf your horse is prone to sneezing or respiratory issues, cod liver oil could be a game changer. It helps reduce the dustiness in feeds, cutting down on those frustrating sneezes. As Aaron points out, Say goodbye to the sneezes. Your horse will no longer sound like its auditioning for a musical about hay fever.By adding cod liver oil to your horse's diet, youre not just ensuring they look goodyoure also helping them breathe better and feel more comfortable. If your horse struggles with respiratory issues, nows the time to buy now and experience the difference yourself.Improves PalatabilityHorses, much like people, can be picky eaters. Thankfully, Super Solvitax Pure Cod Liver Oil is practically a gourmet seasoning for your horses feed. Aaron says, Horses love the taste, and it makes even the fussiest of eaters clean their plate. So, if your horse has been leaving meals untouched, this might be the trick to getting them to enjoy their food again.Omega-3 for Overall WellnessOmega-3 fatty acids are another crucial element of this supplement, known for their ability to boost immune function and support bone health. As Aaron says, With regular use, your horse will be galloping around with shiny fur and bones so solid theyll give Superman a run for his money. Whether your horse is an athlete or simply part of the family, this supplement ensures theyre healthy from the inside out.Fun Fact: Cod Liver Oil's HistoryDid you know that cod liver oil has been a trusted remedy for centuries? Sailors used it to ward off scurvy during long sea voyages. If it can help a sailor survive months at sea, imagine what it can do for your horses bad hair day or energy slumps! Its no wonder this oil is now considered a must-have in modern equestrian care.Managing That "Fishy" SmellWhile this product is a hit with horses, some owners have mentioned a slightly fishy smell when first using cod liver oil. Dont panicits just your horse embracing its inner dolphin! As Aaron humorously points out, If you catch your horse giving off ocean vibes, dont worry. Its all part of the cod liver experience.Subtle Call to Action: Listen, Watch, ShopReady to see the results for yourself? Watch our full review video and discover why so many horse owners are adding Super Solvitax Pure Cod Liver Oil to their routine. You can also shop now to give your horse the benefits of a shiny coat, bright eyes, and enhanced energy!Additional Equestrian Products to ExploreAt Just Horse Riders, we don't just stop at supplements. We offer a wide range of Jodhpurs, Horse Riding Boots, and Horse Riding Gloves to keep you and your horse in top form.If youre looking to make feeding time a little more exciting for your horse, check out our Horse Treats and Gifts. And for everyday health, our Everyday Horse Vitamins & Supplements can make a world of difference.Stay Warm with Stable Rugs and Turnout RugsWinter is coming, and keeping your horse warm is crucial. Browse our selection of Stable Rugs and Turnout Rugs to ensure theyre cozy through the colder months. Don't forget to explore our Fly Protection range for those warmer months!Final Thoughts: Is Cod Liver Oil Right for Your Horse?If youre looking for a supplement that offers more than just a shiny coat, Super Solvitax Pure Cod Liver Oil is the perfect addition to your horse's diet. Whether they need a boost in energy, respiratory support, or a palatability enhancer, this supplement does it all. Remember to watch the full review and shop now for your next favorite equine supplement!If you have any questions about this product, feel free to reach out to us at Just Horse Riders. Were happy to help you find the perfect solution for your horses needs!

Twas the night before Horse of the Year Show (HOYS) and all through the house not a creature was sleeping, not even a mouse! They were far too busy watching the weather forecast, double checking passports and packing extra rugs Just in case!With the final practices and shows done and dusted, attention turns squarely to the insanity that is HOYS this week.Whilst it really brings with it plenty of stress for a variety of reasons, most of the season we spend worrying about qualifying then once we qualify its the age old stress of coats, clipping, weight and working in.It really is an unbelievably special show and there isnt any other show quite like it in the world.Car Park of DreamsWith the final preparations mostly complete and the packing done the first of the competitors will be ready to roll in to the Car Park of Dreams on Tuesday morning.Some will be heading in for the week with ponies coming in and out on transporters, others just for the one night.There is such a range of experience amongst the competitors from the first timers in the Search for a Star classes to those that have been attending year after year and its lovely to see everyone get that buzz as they pull in.My best advice HOYS adviceFor those heading to HOYS for the first time my best advice is to allow extra time for everything, whether that is walking to the arenas or getting passes.It can all take longer than you anticipate and the last thing you want be doing is stressing and rushing.Remember you need to be there in person to collect your wristband, one person cant collect them for the group.To an outsider, it must seem utterly ridiculous that we spend all season traipsing the length and breadth of the country, getting up at ungodly hours and spending a fortune to qualify for another show and a show in a car park next to Birmingham Airport, for that matter.But anyone that has been in that hallowed car park knows that its not just another show. Its the show where dreams come true and lifelong goals are achieved.For a lot of people that doesnt mean winning or even placing, its getting to ride through those curtains into the Arena of Dreams and thats what makes this show so magical.Theres something in my eyeI hope Im not the only person that gets emotional when I hear the opening chords of Holyrood, even when I have absolutely no connection to the winner I cant help but find that there is something in my eye.It is such a powerful piece of music and feels perfect for that wonderful moment of leading off the lap of honour at HOYS.I hope that I will be that lucky person one day a girl can dream! But until then Ill continue to enjoy watching the fortunate few have their moment in the spotlight.The day starts at 3.30amFor show grooms, HOYS is a very long week. Most days start at around 3.30am to get horses fed and ready for the morning working in.Its then a day of running back and forth between the lorry, stables and the rings, whilst getting every horse worked enough in the limited time available and ready for their class.Your day isnt done when the classes finish as the next days horses all need to go down for their evening exercise slots. So its common to not be finished until 10.30pm.Hopefully most employers provide plenty of food and drinks for their staff. Ive been pretty lucky on that front with most people I have worked for.Team Elenor were brilliant for having easy-to-grab bits on the lorry, something always appreciated as there isnt always time to eat real food. Having said that, we did eat our bodyweight in chips last year from Five Guys on the Saturday night!Staple show groom dietAn absolute staple of the show groom diet for the week is a toastie from the infamous toastie van. Its not HOYS if you havent had at least one toastie!There have been some odd combinations witnessed over the years, but the toastie van queue is a strict no judgement zone and whatever you need to keep running goes.A personal favourite of mine is the KitKat toastie. Its the perfect post morning working in pick me up.Its safe to say the run up to HOYS has been a busy one for me this year, I have clipped six for HOYS this time from junior mountain and moorland workers to hunters and most sections in between.To say it is stressful doing such important clips is an understatement, but it is worth it to see them walk in that ring absolutely gleaming with the perfect coat.I will be glad to have a couple of days off next week!I will sign off now by wishing everyone competing the very best of luck for HOYS week. Stop to take a breath and enjoy every moment.It passes in the blink of an eye if you arent careful.Related contentHave you heard of a horse grooming vacuum?Meet our show groom blogger, Tabby Oliver!Diary of a Show Groom: what exactly does my job entail?Diary of a Show Groom: how to get into show groomingMain image of Tabby plaiting a horses mane by Ems Ohren PhotographyThe post HOYS Eve is here: 3.30am starts, KitKat toasties, Car Park of Dreams and spine-tingling moments await appeared first on Your Horse.

Mud fever, or cracked heels is a common term for a bacterial infection also known as pastern dermatitis. It is most commonly seen on the pasterns and is a condition that causes scabs, irritation, sores and in more severe cases heat, swelling and lameness. As the name suggests, mud fever is typically seen in winter, in wet and muddy conditions.Mud fever is caused by a combination of two factors damage to the skin surface and bacterial infection. The skin is a clever and effective barrier protecting the body from the outside world. In healthy horses it is perfectly normal for numerous different types of bacteria and microorganisms to live on the skin without causing any harm. However, when the skin is damaged, bacteria can enter and cause an infection. The most common type of bacteria found to cause mud fever is Dermatophilus congolensis, although other bacterial species can also contribute.What causes the skin to be damaged?The wet muddy conditions we tend to see throughout winter can play havoc with horses lower legs. The prolonged cold and wet can soften the skin, leaving it susceptible to abrasions from mud. Bacteria can enter the skin through these tiny rubs and infection can take hold.Interestingly, there is an extra element that predisposes horses to suffering from mud fever, and that is the constant wet-dry cycle. Many horses can have muddy legs for the entirety of winter and dont seem to have an issue with mud fever. But those who have their legs washed repeatedly can seem to struggle. It is thought that the wetting and chilling from cold water, coupled with inadequate drying can leave skin more susceptible to bacterial infections.What does mud fever look like?Mud fever can range in severity, but all cases have scabs, most commonly on the pastern. However, scabs can extend to the fetlock and in severe cases, the cannons. Along with scabs there is often oozing, heat, matted hair, hair loss, crusting, swelling and heat. Horses who are several affected can be lame.What to do if your horse has mud feverThe primary objective of treating mud fever is to remove the scabs. The bacteria are thought to live in the scabs, so removing them will remove the bacteria. Also, Dermatophilus congolensis is an anaerobic bacteria, meaning it cannot survive in the presence of oxygen. Removing scabs exposes the affected area to oxygen, helping to control the infection. Scab removal, however, can be difficult, as not only can it be painful for horses, but the scabs are often thick, crusty and hard to remove. The following steps help to remove scabs as pain-free as possible: Clip the legs with fine clippers. Hair can often act as an extra surface for the scabs to attach to and can also act as barrier for getting access to the scabs. Use a softening cream to soften the scabs. Nettex Muddy Marvel De-Scab is an effective cream which softens the scabs making them much easier to remove. When applied to cotton wool and gently rubbed over the scabs, much of the scab will come away. It is important not to forcibly remove scabs, so any that do not come away on initial application should be left. Ensure all scabs are covered with a liberal layer of softening cream. Bandage legs. Place a stable bandage over a cling-film layer. Horses should be stabled to reduce excessive movement and to keep the legs dry. Remove after 24 hours. Once the bandage and cling-film has been removed, scabs should easily come away. Next wash the legs with warm water and dilute Nettex Veterinary Surgical Scrub antibacterial wash. Thoroughly dry legs with a towel. Use a separate towel for each leg to avoid contamination. Then apply Nettex Muddy Marvel Disinfect by dabbing on to affected areas and allow to dry. Apply Cream. If your vet has prescribed an antibiotic cream, apply it once the scabs have been removed. At this stage a barrier cream can also be applied, such as Nettex Muddy Marvel Barrier Cream which also contains moisturisers to support healthy skin and elasticity to reduce cracking and drying. In some cases, these steps need to be repeated. Shop all Nettex How to keep feet and legs in good conditionMud fever can be difficult to get on top of, and prevention is always better than cure. Follow these top tips for the best chance of preventing infection: Avoid leaving horses standing in wet and muddy conditions for extended periods of time. Ensure they have somewhere dry to stand for at least part of the day and consider laying hardcore in high frequency areas such as gateways and around water troughs. Avoid over washing horses legs. Constant wetting and chilling of legs is a contributing factor for the development of mud fever. Washing legs results in them being cold for hours after, which we know increases the chances of developing mud fever. Use warm water and dry thoroughly. If you need to wash legs, make sure you use warm water and use a towel to thoroughly dry the legs. Use a separate towel for each leg to avoid contamination. Ensure you dry legs promptly and never leave them wet. Leave mud on legs overnight. Rather than wash off wet muddy legs when you bring your horse in, place stable bandages on overnight and in the morning brush off the dried mud. Trim long feathers. While you shouldnt over clip, and expose delicate skin, trimming the feathers and coat over the lower limbs reduces the amount of mud that can stick to your horses legs, and also allows you better access to the skin to both observe what is happening, and treat if you need to. Use an effective barrier cream such as Nettex Muddy Marvel Barrier Cream, or a barrier spray such as Nettex Muddy Marvel Seven Day Mud Away (before exposed to wet and muddy conditions and skin becoming compromised). Do not apply Seven Day Mud away to cracked or broken skin. Supporting the delicate skin around the pastern with a barrier cream or spray can be useful for reducing the contact between skin and the mud. Ensure the leg is clean and dry before applying either a barrier cream or spray, and always remember to patch test for 48 hours before use.The above has been written by Dr Jim Rawlinson BVMS MBA MRCVSAt Redpost Equestrian, we have a huge variety of products and applications to help prevent and treat mud fever and other seasonal issues. Need something in a hurry? We offer Next Day Delivery to most UK mainland addresses (excluding the Scottish Highlands)! Shop all Mud Fever The post How to Treat Mud Fever with Nettex first appeared on Redpost Equestrian Blog.

The horse lived in Morgan County. The post Tennessee Horse Positive for WNV appeared first on The Horse.

The case is located in Jefferson County. The post Morgan Mare in New York Positive for EEE appeared first on The Horse.

With the highly anticipated Horse of the Year Show just a few days away, we want to wish our amazing graduates the best of luck as they compete in the young horse finals.We are so proud to see our horses, like "Marshmallow" and "Nike van het singraven", excel in their respective classes after being bought from us as raw 3-year-olds. It's truly a testament to their talent and hard work put in by their new owners and riders.And let's not forget about "Honky cat", who has been making waves with Julian Mincher Equestrian and is now heading to Hoys for the Foxhunter final at just 6 years old! As these youngsters prepare for the 'big stage' it's a great time to look at some of their before and after shots !Marshmallow Eldorado van de zeshoek x zento and Hannah sims head to hoys for the grade c finals . He was bought from us as a raw 3yo.Nike van het singraven (andiamo de semilly x haarlem) sold by usas a 3yo to river lodge equestrian in Ireland , rafael sanctuary and Michelle Kenny and now heading to hoys with former Olympian holly smith for the newcomers and foxhunter finals as a 6yo.Honky cat (Elton John x mr blue ) sold by us to Julian mincher equestrian as a 3yo for his owner louise drink water , heads to hoys as a 6yo to contest the foxhunter final , a highly talked about young horse this one !

Routinely testing the efficacy of deworming protocols is crucial to reducing the populations of these parasites. Heres why.The post Anthelmintic Treatment Failure Against Equine Tapeworms appeared first on The Horse.