Isabell Werth (GER) and DSP Quantaz, winners of the FEI Dressage World Cup™ - Lyon (FRA)  Copyright © FEI/Łukasz Kowalski In Thursday’s Grand Prix, the competition was intense among the top three contenders, setting the stage for a nail-biting finish in the second leg of the FEI Dressage World Cup™ Western European League in Lyon (FRA). The suspense held until the...

Photo: Haylie Kerstetter/The HorseVeterinarians commonly use joint injections to treat joint disease in horses, but how do they decide which product suits each case? Jennifer Feiner Groon, VMD, of The Feiner Equine, in Ringoes, New Jersey, describes the pros and cons of the most commonly used joint injection options and how veterinarians select the right one for your horse.This podcast is an excerpt of our Ask TheHorse Live Q&A, Preventive Equine Joint Care. Listen to the full recording here.About the ExpertsJennifer Feiner Groon, VMDJennifer Feiner Groon, VMD, is an equine veterinarian with a focus on sports medicine. Graduating from the University of Pennsylvanias School of Veterinary Medicine in 2006, she has since built a successful practice, The Feiner Equine, where she splits her time between Central New Jersey and Wellington, Florida. Groons career has been marked by a diverse range of experiences. Prior to establishing her own practice, she served as a member of the Hagyard Equine Medical group in Lexington, Kentucky, and an ambulatory veterinarian at MidAtlantic Equine Medical Institute in Ringoes, New Jersey. She served as the Head of Quarantine and a USEF/FEI Veterinary Apprentice at the 2007 Beijing Welcome Games Test Event and the 2008 Beijing Olympic Games. She was actively involved with the Area II and Area VIII Eventing Teams during the 2009 FEI Adequan North American Junior and Young Rider Championships. In 2010, she was in charge of the quarantine efforts at the Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games. In her free time, she competes in hunter and jumper disciplines. She loves sharing her passion of everything about animals with her family.The post Choosing Products for Horse Joint Injections appeared first on The Horse.

Dries Degrieck (BEL) winner of the FEI Driving World Cup™ at the Longines Equita Lyon 2024, Lyon (FRA). ©FEI/Lukasz Kowalsk Dries Degrieck’s (BEL) quest to top the podium at a FEI Driving World Cup™ seems promising after a powerful performance at the 30th Longines Equita Lyon (FRA). As the winner of Saturday’s opening two-round competition, the Belgian was last to...

03 November 2024 Richard Vogel (GER) and United Touch S during the LONGINES FEI Jumping World Cup™ Lyon at the Longines Equita Lyon 2024, Lyon (FRA). ©FEI/Lukasz Kowalski Richard Vogel (GER) on United Touch S flew to victory in the FEI Jumping World Cup™ qualifier in Lyon (FRA), wowing the crowd in the process.   Vogel modestly gave all credit to his horse, United Touch...

Topic Key Points Perception of Beauty Beauty affects animal treatment, conservation, and parent-offspring interaction. Universal Appeal of Beauty - Humans prefer attractive faces and bodies. - Attractive animals are perceived quicker. - Linked to evolutionary and cognitive factors. Children's Perception - Prefer attractive animals like birds and squirrels. - Attractiveness influences moral judgments and conservation willingness. Parental Perception and Care - Attractiveness indicates health, influences care. - "Baby schema" may trigger nurturing responses. Conservation Implications - Attractive animals ("charismatic species") receive more support. - Bias may neglect less attractive species. Cross-Cultural Perceptions - Universal elements in attractiveness like symmetry and bright colors. - Varied cultural perceptions. Conclusion - Beauty influences human-animal interactions. - Importance of compassionate and inclusive approach in conservation. Exploring the Perceptions of Beauty in Young Animals: Do Parents See Their Offspring Differently?When we think about beauty, it's often in the context of human aesthetics, but the concept of beauty extends far beyond our species. In the animal kingdom, the perception of beauty can have significant implications for how animals are treated, conserved, and even how parents interact with their offspring. This blog will delve into the fascinating world of animal beauty, particularly focusing on how young animals are perceived and whether parents see their offspring differently based on these perceptions.The Universal Appeal of BeautyResearch has shown that humans have an innate preference for attractive faces and bodies, a preference that is not limited to human subjects. Studies have demonstrated that attractive animal faces, much like human faces, enjoy an advantage in both conscious and preconscious processing. For instance, a study on cat and tiger faces found that attractive cat faces were detected more quickly and dominated visual awareness for longer periods compared to less attractive faces.This universal appeal of beauty is rooted in evolutionary and cognitive factors. Humans tend to perceive animals with certain characteristics, such as juvenile appearance, bright colors, and symmetrical shapes, as more attractive. These characteristics often signal health, vitality, and genetic fitness, which can be crucial for survival and reproduction.Children's Perception of Animal BeautyChildren's perceptions of animal beauty are particularly interesting because they reflect early developmental stages of human cognition and empathy. A study involving primary school children found that children rate certain animals, such as birds, butterflies, and squirrels, as more attractive than others like bats, moths, and ants. This preference influences their moral judgments; children tend to consider it more severe to hurt attractive animals compared to less attractive ones.This differential treatment based on attractiveness highlights how early in life humans begin to attribute moral value to animals based on their aesthetic appeal. Children's willingness to conserve and protect attractive animals over less attractive ones underscores the significant role beauty plays in shaping our attitudes towards other species.Parental Perception and CareIn the animal kingdom, parental care is often influenced by the perceived attractiveness or health of the offspring. While direct studies on parental perception of beauty in their offspring are less common, we can infer from related research. For example, the "baby schema" or "kindchenschema" proposed by ethologist Konrad Lorenz suggests that certain features such as large eyes, round faces, and soft features trigger nurturing responses in adults.In many species, parents are more likely to invest care in offspring that appear healthy and vigorous, which can be linked to attractiveness. For instance, in some bird species, parents may favor feeding the most vigorous or attractive chicks, ensuring the survival of the fittest offspring.Conservation ImplicationsThe perception of beauty in animals has significant implications for conservation efforts. Attractive animals, often referred to as "charismatic species," receive more attention and funding for conservation. People are more inclined to support the conservation of animals they find aesthetically pleasing, such as pandas, elephants, and dolphins, compared to less charismatic species like insects or reptiles.This bias towards attractive animals can have both positive and negative effects. On one hand, it can mobilize public support and resources for conservation. On the other hand, it can lead to the neglect of less attractive but equally important species.Cross-Cultural PerceptionsThe perception of animal beauty is not uniform across cultures but shares some universal elements. For example, across different cultures, animals with characteristics like symmetry, bright colors, and juvenile features are generally considered more attractive. However, cultural influences can also shape these perceptions; what one culture finds beautiful might not be the same for another.Equestrian Equipment and BeautyThe beauty and grace of horses are undeniable, but maintaining these majestic creatures requires a wide range of horse riding equipment and apparel. At Just Horse Riders, we offer everything you need to keep your horse looking and feeling great, from the finest stable rugs to elegant jodhpurs and boots.ConclusionThe perception of beauty in young animals is a complex and multifaceted topic that influences various aspects of human-animal interactions. From children's moral judgments to parental care and conservation efforts, beauty plays a significant role. Understanding these perceptions can help us better appreciate the intricate relationships between humans and animals and highlight the importance of considering all species, regardless of their aesthetic appeal, in our conservation and welfare efforts.By recognizing the universal appeal of beauty and its impact on our behaviors, we can work towards a more inclusive and compassionate approach to animal welfare and conservation. Whether it's the cute face of a puppy or the majestic appearance of a tiger, each animal deserves our respect and care, regardless of how we perceive their beauty.For further information on how you can enhance the beauty and performance of your horse, visit Just Horse Riders. Our collection of horse treats and gifts and equine supplements are designed to ensure your equine partner is at its most beautiful.```html```

With London International Horse Show just around the corner, running from 18–22 December, the Show recently celebrated a heartwarming day with its Official Charity for 2024, Riding for the Disabled Association (RDA). Hosted at Park Lane Stables RDA in Teddington, the event gave participants a special opportunity to meet Natasha Baker OBE, the inspiring Para Dressage rider and passionate...

05 November 2024 Longines League of NationsTM  2025 qualified teams © FEI The FEI has officially confirmed the qualified nations of the second edition of the Longines League of NationsTM, with the top 10 ranked nations set to compete in the world’s oldest and most prestigious equestrian team Jumping competition. Nine nations have qualified again for the 2025 edition: Ireland,...

Eight-time Paralympic gold medallist Sophie Christiansen has called time on her competitive career.Sophie, who has cerebral palsy, enjoyed a glittering para dressage career which included winning 24 European, World and Paralympic gold medals for Great Britain.After a 20-year competitive career, I have decided to retire from para dressage. I was once told, when you know, you know. I used to wonder what this meant, but now I realise that I am more excited about the possibilities of what I could do outside of the sport than doing another 4-year cycle of highs and lows as an athlete, said Sophie in a post on her Facebook page.The 36-year-old won an individual bronze medal on her Paralympic debut in Athens in 2004 when she was aged just 16 aboard Hotstuff. At the time, she was the youngest member of the GB team.Clean sweepShe went on to contest the next three Paralympic Games at Beijing, London and Rio winning three gold medals on home turf in London and again in Rio four years later.To achieve my first clean sweep of gold medals at a home Games, London 2012, was beyond my wildest dreams. Having my brother and cousins start a chant of we love you, Sophie! by 10,000 spectators was just insane, said Sophie.The memories still give me goosebumps! It was here that my double life as a Paralympic gold medallist with a career gave me a platform to highlight the barriers that disabled people face in society. I hope that in some way I can make a difference and create a more equitable world.Sophie, who comes from a non-horsey family, started riding with the RDA when she was six years old.People began seeing my potential as a teenager and suggested that I started para dressage at South Bucks RDA. I have always been competitive, so being able to find a sport that I could excel at was a complete game changer, continued Sophie.Future plansAs well as being a highly successful rider, Sophie also has a masters degree in mathematics and works as a software developer for Goldman Sachs.Para dressage has given me so much and sport has empowered me to redefine what I thought was possible and to keep breaking barriers in all areas of my life, she added.I want to work alongside the RDA, British Dressage and British Equestrian continue introducing people to the world of para dressage so that when another me comes along, they can also achieve their dreams. You wont get rid of me that easily!Further readingRescue pony enjoys showing success in new home12 lead rein and first ridden ponies in quest for SEIB Search for a Star titlesNatural horsemanship: core principles for horse riding and trainingThe post Paralympic champion Sophie Christiansen announces her retirement appeared first on Your Horse.

On November 1, a Paso Fino filly in Marion County, Florida, tested positive for West Nile virus (WNV). The filly, who is vaccinated, developed clinical signs on October 29, including head shaking, muscle twitching, incoordination, weakness, and inability to stand. She is currently still alive.This is Floridas ninth confirmed case of WNV in 2024.EDCC Health Watch is an Equine Network marketing program that utilizes information from the Equine Disease Communication Center (EDCC) to create and disseminate verified equine disease reports. TheEDCCis an independent nonprofit organization that is supported by industry donations in order to provide open access to infectious disease information.WNV 101West Nile virusis transmitted to horses via bites from infected mosquitoes. Not all infected horses show clinical signs, but those that do can exhibit:Flulike signs, where the horse seems mildly anorexic and depressed;Fine and coarse muscle and skin fasciculation (involuntary twitching);Hyperesthesia (hypersensitivity to touch and sound);Changes in mentation (mental activity), when horses look like theyre daydreaming or just not with it;Occasional drowsiness;Propulsive walking (driving or pushing forward, often without control); andSpinal signs, including asymmetrical weakness; andAsymmetrical or symmetrical ataxia.West Nile virus has no cure. However, some horses can recover with supportive care. Equine mortality rates can reach 30-40%.Studies have shown thatvaccines can be effective WNV prevention tools. Horses vaccinated in past years need an annual booster shot, but veterinarians might recommend two boosters annuallyone in the spring and another in the fallin areas with prolonged mosquito seasons. In contrast, previously unvaccinated horses require a two-shot vaccination series in a three- to six-week period. It takes several weeks for horses to develop protection against the disease following complete vaccination or booster administration.In addition to vaccinations, owners should work to reduce mosquito population and breeding areas and limit horses mosquito exposure by:Removing stagnant water sources;Dumping, cleaning, and refilling water buckets and troughs regularly;Keeping animals inside during insect feeding times (typically early in the morning and evening); andApplying mosquito repellents approved for equine use.The post Vaccinated Florida Filly Tests Positive for WNV appeared first on The Horse.

Broadcaster Angela Rippon will attend a remembrance service for lost animals in war on behalf of horse and donkey charity Brooke on Friday 8 November 2024.The service, which commemorates all the animals who served and sacrificed themselves during conflict, will take place at the Animals in War Memorial in Hyde Park in London.Im honoured to support Brooke at such an important and moving service, a time to reflect and remember the service of millions of horses, donkeys and mules who went to war alongside our soldiers, said Angela, who will lay a wreath during the service.Working equines are still the backbone of many communities throughout the developing world. I have long supported Brooke, having left a gift in my will to Brooke in 2018.The service, which has taken place each year since 2004, is organised by Petplan Charitable Trust. UK animal charities are invited to attend the service and pay their respects.Well-known guestsPrevious attendees have included Jilly Cooper, Sir Derek Jacobi and Annette Badland.The Animals in War Memorial was unveiled by HRH The Princess Royal in 2004, the 90th anniversary of the start of World War I. It pays tribute to all animals that have served, suffered and died alongside British, Commonwealth andAllied forces in the wars and conflicts of the 20th century.In World War I it is estimated that eight million horses, donkeys and mules gave their lives. Most equine survivors never returned home and endured hard labour.Brookes founder, Dorothy Brookes, discovery that thousands of former British war horses were suffering in Egypt in 1930 was the catalyst that led to the charity being formed.Dorothy opened the Old War Memorial Hospital to ensure the animals were treated with care, respect and compassion.Today, Brookes work has expanded to support working animals across Africa, Asia and Latin America.Each November, Brooke encourages people to get involved in Every Horse Remembered Week (6-11 November), to honour the heroic war horses of the past and protect the millions still suffering.Related contentOwners belief in horse emotion linked to animal wellbeing, Brooke study showsBrooke unveils online learning platform for vets in developing countriesRory Bremner and Annette Badland to attend Brookes Christmas carolsThe post Angela Rippon to represent Brooke at remembrance service for animals lost in war appeared first on Your Horse.