Five-star event rider Wills Oakden from Perthshire was among the winners at the horsescotland National Equestrian Awards which took place at the Dunblane Hydro Hotel on Friday 27 September.Wills was presented with the Performer of the Year Award following his successful 2024 season which included winning the CCI-4*L with Keep It Cooley and the CCI-2*L aboard Mile Beach at the final running of Blair Castle Horse Trials in August. He also finished in the Top 20 at Badminton with Arklow Puissance and Burghley with A Class Cooley this year.Youth Performer of the Year was awarded to talented showjumper Fergal Holohan while para carriage driver Jayne McGarvie was presented with the Para Performer of the Year award.Sophie Whitby took home the Youth Volunteer of the Year award following her fundraising efforts for the Equine Grass Sickness Fund. The 11-year-old has raised 6,000 for the charity over the last two years by organising sponsored rides.Amy Fraser received the Volunteer of the Year Award for her contribution to the running of Lochside Arena in Stornoway.Six decades of commitmentThe Outstanding Achievement Award was given to Jim Balfour in recognition of his lifetime of dedication to the farriery profession while David Reid was honoured with the Lifetime Achievement Award for 60 years of commitment to equestrianism. He has been a BE and FEI steward for the majority of his life.Bogenraith Equestrian were named Equestrian Business of the Year for creating a welcoming space for equestrian activities in the North East, V&C Equestrian received the award for Equestrian Club of the Year for providing riding opportunities for children and offering therapeutic visits to care homes, and the Scottish Para Home Nations Team were presented with the award for Team of the Year. The trio of Kyla Mantilla Ross, Margaret Lupton, and Lesley McNaughton-Wells finished second at the Para Home Nations.Other award recipients included John and Wendy McGrandles (Owner of the Year), Mary Turnbull (Equine Breeder of the Year) and Professor David Sutton from Glasgow Equine Hospital (Equestrian Employee of The Year).Further readingRedwings awarded 11,200 to create interactive paddock mapParliamentary debate will celebrate 200 years of the RSPCAScone Palace to host new international horse trials in ScotlandThe post Wills Oakden leads horsescotland award winners appeared first on Your Horse.

Alberts crew excel in show jumping to blow elite field away Dag Albert has hailed a fantastic team effort in testing conditions after the Agria Irish Eventing Team blitzed an elite field to win the four-star FEI Eventing Nations Cup at Boekelo today. Alberts squad of Aoife Clark on Sportsfield Freelance, Susie Berry on the Vincent Cousins-bred Irish Sport Horse Clever Trick, Pdraig McCarthy with Pomp N Circumstance and Austin OConnor with Iazsa concluded with a total of 102.6 penalties, to prevail comfortably from USA (116.1), as Germany claimed bronze on 131.9. A tremendous effort in yesterdays cross-country catapulted the Charles Ancona Green Jackets to the top of the 11-nation table ahead of this afternoons show jumping phase and they made no mistake, Clark confirming the famous victory with a professional four-fault round. Clarks beaming smile told a tale and when she joined her teammates and Horse Sport Ireland High []

Wilmington, Ohio This weeks Wilmington Sunday Spotlight shines on Charlotte Babbitt. The young professional, riding and managing at Riffle Hitch LLC, comes from a successful international Three-Day Eventing background, and recently made the switch to the Show Jumping ring. With her special mare, Vivianne Blue PS, Babbitt has spent time at both World Equestrian Center locations honing her skills and working toward the top[...]Read MoreThe post Wilmington Sunday Spotlight: Charlotte Babbitt appeared first on World Equestrian Center.

Section Key Points Understanding Quality of Life Continuous or Unmanageable Pain Hopeless Medical or Surgical Conditions Unmanageable Medical Conditions Lifestyle Confinement Assessing Your Horses Condition Good Appetite and Interaction Mobility and Comfort Impact of Chronic Conditions Making the Decision Veterinary Advice Trust Your Gut Feeling Consider Financial and Emotional Readiness Having a Plan in Place Identify Criteria for Euthanasia Research Euthanasia Methods Plan for the Remains Coping with Grief Allow Time to Grieve Seek Support Commemorate Your Horse Navigating the Difficult Decision: When to Say Goodbye to an Elderly HorseDeciding when to euthanize an elderly horse is one of the most emotional and challenging decisions horse owners may face. It requires a deep understanding of the horse's quality of life, a careful examination of different factors, and, often, a significant amount of emotional readiness. This comprehensive guide aims to provide insights and clarity to help navigate this difficult decision.Understanding Quality of LifeThe quality of life for your horse lies at the heart of this decision. According to the American Association of Equine Practitioners (AAEP), several key factors should weigh into the decision: Continuous or Unmanageable Pain Hopeless Medical or Surgical Conditions Unmanageable Medical Conditions Lifestyle ConfinementAssessing Your Horses ConditionRegular health checks by a veterinarian are crucial in evaluating your horses condition. Here are some signs to look for: Appetite and Interaction: A horse with a good quality of life should have a good appetite and interact willingly with its owner and other horses. Mobility and Comfort: Recurring issues such as lameness, weight loss, or difficulty chewing could significantly affect your horses comfort. Chronic Conditions such as arthritis or dental issues may significantly impact quality of life.Making the DecisionThe decision to euthanize a horse is both personal and complicated. It's influenced by your own values, experiences, and the unique circumstances of your horse: Veterinary Advice: Your veterinarian can offer valuable insights into your horses health. Gut Feeling: Trust your instincts when it feels like the right time. Consider financial and emotional readiness.Having a Plan in PlaceHaving a clear plan in place can provide a semblance of control in this difficult time: Identify Criteria for Euthanasia: Set criteria based on your horses well-being. Research Euthanasia Methods: Understand all available methods. Properly plan for your horses remains whether through cremation or other means.Coping with GriefLosing a beloved horse can be extremely painful. Here are some tips to help you cope with grief: Allow yourself time to grieve. Seek support from friends, family, or counselors. Find ways to commemorate your horse.ConclusionDeciding when to say goodbye to an elderly horse is never easy, but it's often a necessary act of compassion. By thoroughly considering your horses quality of life, seeking sound veterinary advice, and having a practical plan in place, you can ensure your horses last days are as comfortable and dignified as possible. Remember, preventing unnecessary suffering often means making the decision a week early rather than a day late.For further guidance, more detailed information can be found in resources like "When the Time Comes to Say Goodbye" and "End of life: a decision".```html```

Two colts have been removed from a herd to end the breeding cycle and help the owner who was finding it difficult to cope with the number of horses she owned.Seth and Arlo, both Welsh/Thoroughbred bay colts, were taken to the Horse and Ponies Protection Associations (HAPPA) base at Shores Hey Farm in Burnley.Three-year-old Arlo (pictured above) has completed his rehabilitation and has found a foster home through the charitys loan scheme. Seth, who was rescued more recently, is still undergoing rehabilitation. It is hoped he will find his forever home in due course.A concerned member of the public contacted HAPPA and following a visit by a charity inspector, the owner sought help and supported the two horses coming into the charitys care.A charity statement said that the horses owner is committed to making changes. By reducing the number of horses and removing the colts to end the breeding cycle, they are better able to care for the remaining horses.A difficult round-upSeths rescue proved problematic as he lived on 50 acres of hillside and was unhandled. The yearling had never worn a headcollar or been in a horse trailer.Seth and Sophie Collier at Shores Hey FarmThe terrain was a problem, very steep and undulating. In difficult round-ups we get help from fellow charity World Horse Welfare and their field officers, said HAPPA equine inspector racy Heaton.They have pens which we erect and herd the horses in. This makes it safe for the horses and the team, especially for unhandled horses.We must assess the landscape, and the horses needs, then plan how were going to use the equipment to safely guide the horse onto the trailer.The colt can now follow in the hoof prints of his brother and have a wonderful life with HAPPA, added Tracy.A gentle soulHAPPA equine care officer Sophie Collier was allocated to Seth on his arrival. She has been working hard to gain his trust and confidence.When Seth arrived he was very unsure about human contact but very curious, so I knew he was a gentle soul, she said.Gradually, through daily one to one interaction, he has progressed from allowing human touch to having a headcollar on, and now is gaining confidence in being led on a rope by a human.He has taken everything in his stride and his cheeky, affectionate personality is beginning to show, added Sophie.HAPPA has funded all veterinary costs in relation to gelding both colts and the aftercare following the procedure. Both will be protected by the charity for the rest of their lives.Equine Inspector Tracy Heaton remains in contact with Arlo and Seths previous owner, and provides support and guidance when necessary.Further readingRedwings awarded 11,200 to create interactive paddock mapParliamentary debate will celebrate 200 years of the RSPCABrooke attends UN High-Level Meeting to tackle antimicrobial resistanceHow to take care of a horseAd lib forage and other fundamentals of a horses dietThe post Horses rescued by equine charity as owner struggles to cope appeared first on Your Horse.

The FEI Eventing European Championships will take place at the Agria Blenheim Palace International Horse Trials next year, from 18th to 21st September 2025.It comes 20 years after the Oxfordshire venue previously ran the Europeans, in 2005 when Zara Tindall (then Phillips) won individual gold aboard Toytown and Britain won team gold. It will also be the first senior eventing championship to be held in Great Britain since Blair Castle in 2015.It is a great honour to be bringing the FEI Eventing European Championship back to Britain, said event organiser Katrina Midgley of Stable Events. Blenheim is such a fitting backdrop, with the palace and the spectacular parkland cross-country course, and we look forward to welcoming the teams and their supporters for a truly memorable occasion.Thanks must go to the teams at British Equestrian, FEI, British Eventing, Agria and UK Sport who have been instrumental in securing this exciting fixture.Esther Britten, UK Sports head of major events, added: Delivering major events like this continues to demonstrate the UKs reputation as one of the worlds leading hosts, creating extraordinary sporting moments that reach, unite and inspire the nation.New title sponsorNext years Europeans will be the 37th running of the bi-annual eventing championship, which started in 1953, and is set to be the 12th time it has been hosted by Great Britain. It will also mark the 35th anniversary of the first international horse trials at Blenheim.Blenheim is long established as a popular and beautiful eventing venue and we are very much looking forward to the FEI Eventing European Championship taking place there, said FEI eventing director Catrin Norinder.The 2025 fixture will be Agrias first as title sponsor of Blenheim.Could there be a more thrilling way to celebrate the third UK birthday of our game-changing lifetime equine insurance than by becoming Blenheims title sponsor for the 2025 Agria FEI Eventing European Championships? said Vicki Wentworth, chief executive of Agria UK.Agria celebrates another birthday next year the 135th since it was founded in Sweden and we cant wait to host the best riders in Europe plus owners and horse fans from far and wide to Blenheim on its 35th anniversary. Its a brilliant event that always produces a memorable competition.Brits are the reigning championsThe team podium at the 2005 Europeans. From left: team Germany (bronze), Great Britain (gold) and France (silver) FEI/Kit HoughtonAs well as being the host nation, team Great Britain will start as defending champions. Ros Canter will be the reigning individual champion, after her victory last year riding Lordships Graffalo at the championships held in Le Pin au Haras, France.The first ever FEI Eventing European Championship was held at Badminton in 1953, where Britain took individual gold and silver, as well as team gold.British athletes have dominated since then, accumulating a total of 20 individual gold medals. This is more than all other nations combined, including two wins by members of the British Royal Family: The Princess Royal in 1971 and her daughter Zara Tindall in 2005.The combination of Germany and the Federal Republic of Germany has won 27 individual medals, including six golds.In the team medal board, Britain has won 24 golds, while Frances total is 18. Germany has won 17 team medals, six of which are gold.Main image: Laura Collett and Hester at the Blenheim Palace International Horse Trials 2023 Libby LawThe post Oxfordshire venue will host FEI Eventing European Championships in 2025 appeared first on Your Horse.

Topic Key Points Understanding Challenges Requires patience, understanding, and respect for developmental stages. Avoid starting horses under saddle before age three. Early Handling Reduces behavioral issues. Accustoms foals to human presence and basic handling. Building Trust Use positive reinforcement with treats. Create safe and non-threatening environments. Utilize approach and retreat method. Avoid rushing; take small steps. Managing Self-Doubt Seek professional guidance. Learn from others, focus on small victories. Maintain a support network. Safety First Use appropriate equipment like round pens. Avoid high-risk situations; seek professional help if needed. Conclusion Patience and persistence are key. Seek guidance when in doubt. How to Cope with Doubts When Training a Young and Unhandled Horse: Tips from Experienced Owners Training a young and unhandled horse can be a daunting task, filled with moments of self-doubt and uncertainty. Whether you are a seasoned horse owner or a novice, the challenges of training a young horse are significant. Here are some valuable tips and insights from experienced owners and trainers to help you navigate these challenges and build a strong, trusting relationship with your horse. Understanding the Unique Challenges of Young Horses Training young horses is a specialized skill that requires patience, understanding, and a deep respect for the horse's developmental stages. As one experienced owner noted, "Training young horses is generally a ton of small steps forward and in some instances, a landslide backward." Young horses, especially those under the age of three, are still developing both physically and mentally. Starting them too early can be detrimental to their health and well-being. For instance, many trainers now advocate for not starting horses under saddle until they are at least three years old, as their bodies and minds may not be fully prepared before then. The Importance of Early Handling Early handling is crucial for the development of a young horse. Handling foals in the first few weeks of their life can significantly reduce behavioral issues later on. As emphasized by horse training experts, "Handle every foal in the first few weeks of his life and you won't have dramas when he's older" [source](https://www.reddit.com/r/horses/comments/how_many_years_of_horse_experience_before/). This early interaction helps the foal become accustomed to human presence, touch, and basic handling such as wearing a halter and having their feet handled. This foundation makes future training much easier and less stressful for both the horse and the handler. Building Trust with Unhandled Horses When dealing with unhandled horses, building trust is paramount. Here are some steps you can follow to earn their trust: Use Positive Reinforcement Positive reinforcement through treats and gentle interactions can go a long way in building trust. Start by offering treats to help the horse associate your presence with positive experiences. Gradually introduce touch and handling, always ensuring the horse feels safe and comfortable. Create a Safe Environment Ensure the environment is safe and non-threatening. Using a small stable or yard can help the horse feel more secure and reduce the likelihood of them feeling cornered or trapped. Avoid using small paddocks that might make them feel confined. Approach and Retreat Method Use the approach and retreat method to help the horse become comfortable with your presence. Start by approaching the horse, then retreating to give them space. This method helps the horse learn to trust your movements and presence without feeling overwhelmed [source](https://www.horseforum.com/how-to-approach-unhandled-horses/). Avoid Rushing the Process Patience is key when working with unhandled horses. Rushing the process can lead to fear and mistrust. Take small steps, and let the horse dictate the pace of the training. For example, if the horse is fearful of people, spend time simply sitting near them until they become comfortable with your presence. Managing Self-Doubt Self-doubt is a common companion for many horse owners, especially when working with young or unhandled horses. Here are some tips to help manage these feelings: Seek Professional Guidance Working with a professional trainer can be incredibly beneficial. They can provide guidance, troubleshoot problems, and help you build confidence in your abilities. Even experienced owners often send their young horses to professionals who specialize in starting young horses under saddle. Learn from Others Reading about the experiences of other horse owners and trainers can be very reassuring. Many experienced trainers have shared their journeys, highlighting the challenges and the importance of patience and persistence. For instance, one trainer shared their experience of working with a feral pony, emphasizing the slow but eventual progress that came from patient and gentle training. Focus on Small Steps Training a young horse is a journey of small steps. Celebrate each small victory and do not be too hard on yourself when things do not go as planned. Remember, every horse is unique, and what works for one may not work for another [source](https://www.milestoneequestrian.com/self-doubt-in-riding-everyone-has-it/). Maintain a Support Network Having a support network of experienced horse owners and trainers can be invaluable. They can offer advice, provide reassurance, and help you stay motivated during the challenging times. Safety First Safety is a critical aspect of training young horses. Both the horse and the handler are at risk of injury if the training is not conducted properly. Use Appropriate Equipment Use appropriate equipment such as a round pen or a safe, enclosed area to prevent the horse from feeling cornered or escaping. If you do not have access to a round pen, ensure the area you are using is safe and secure. Avoid High-Risk Situations Avoid situations that could lead to injury, such as trying to handle a frightened or aggressive horse without proper training or equipment. It is always better to seek professional help in such cases. Conclusion Training a young and unhandled horse is a rewarding but challenging task. By understanding the unique needs of young horses, building trust through positive reinforcement, managing self-doubt, and prioritizing safety, you can navigate these challenges successfully. Remember, patience and persistence are key. Every small step forward, even if it seems insignificant, is a step in the right direction. And when in doubt, do not hesitate to seek guidance from professionals who have dedicated their careers to the art of horse training. For more detailed information on these topics, you can refer to the following resources: How many years of horse experience did you have before ... - Reddit Catching an Unhandled Horse - Fear Free Horse Training How to approach unhandled horses? | The Horse Forum Self Doubt in Riding: Everyone has it - Milestone Equestrian ```html```

Diva's Dressage day!Classes for everyone incorporating Pony club spring festival qualifiers. Full range of classes from Intro to Medium with junior classes. Sashes for the winners in non pony club c...