On October 29, a 6-year-old Quarter Horse mare in Nowata County, Oklahoma, tested positive for West Nile virus (WNV). The horse, who is unvaccinated, developed clinical signs on October 21, including ataxia and muscle fasciculations. She has recovered.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.

A pony who was abandoned by her owner during a difficult foaling is now thriving thanks to the care and attention of the Horses and Ponies Protection Association (HAPPA).Treacle, a seven-year-old part bred Welsh mare, was rescued by HAPPA following a report of cruelty from a concerned member of the public. She had been abandoned on council owned land and was taken by HAPPA straight to surgery to remove her dead foal.As well as being traumatised, Treacle was also underweight, infested with lice and her hooves were overgrown.Following a brief stay at the veterinary clinic, Treacle was moved to HAPPAs Shores Hey Farm in Burnley where she underwent further treatment and rehabilitation.Treacle spent three weeks in the isolation unit where she continued her recovery with the addition of medication and some much-needed love and attention, said Lauren Brown, HAPPA equine care officer.Sweet toothThe mare didnt like taking her medication unless it was mixed with molasses which is how she got the name, Treacle.Originally, Treacle was quite a defensive mare. She wasnt keen on being kept in her stable, showing her cheeky side by trying to push her way out. With lots of time and patience, and since moving onto the main yard, she has gotten much better with this and is proving to be a sweet pony, continued Lauren.Treacle was not used to having her legs lifted up and her feet picked out so the HAPPA team had to teach her this before she could receive farriery attention.Once Treacle had settled and received all her treatments, she was then able to go out in the fields and make some new friends. She struggled to socialise at first, but soon accepted the other mares and has now had a very happy summer living out with them, said Lauren.The HAPPA team are beginning to do desensitisation work with Treacle in the hope that in the future she will make a riding pony.Further readingRescue pony enjoys showing success in new homeCouple banned from keeping animals after neglecting two horses so badly that they diedStarving foal now thriving thanks to work of The Donkey SanctuaryThe post Pony abandoned during foaling enjoying new life at HAPPA appeared first on Your Horse.

Section Key Points Introduction A reflection on the Blair Castle International Horse Trials, its 35-year history, impact, legacy, highlights, venue change, and equestrian culture insights. A Legacy of 35 Years Started in 1978, became an international fixture by 1989, known for attracting top riders and celebrating the equestrian lifestyle. Global Participation and Star-Studded Lineup 14 nations participated, featuring famous riders like Tom McEwen and Ros Canter, enhancing the event's prestige. A Celebration of Equestrian Excellence Over 400 horse and rider combinations, featured events like Scottish Grassroots Championships, with nostalgic performances by legends like Ian Stark. Emotional Farewell Signified a sentimental goodbye with personal stories from longtime contributors like Jessica Elliott and Sally Murray. The Future of the Trials Scone Palace announced as new host from 2025, promising to maintain the event's renowned status and bring new features. Highlights of the Final Event Victories celebrated, like Piggy March's win, with local triumphs adding to the event's personal and historic significance. Community and Environmental Impact Focus on the societal and environmental contributions, aligning with regenerative agriculture. A Lasting Legacy The British Horse Society's enduring involvement supports Scottish equestrian pursuits despite venue changes. Conclusion The Blair Castle Trials' influence is lasting; the event's shift to Scone Palace is anticipated to offer exciting new traditions. Introduction The Blair Castle International Horse Trials, a cherished event in the Scottish equestrian calendar for 35 years, concluded its iconic run from August 22 to 25, 2024. As we reflect on its history and impact, this article will cover its legacy, highlights, and change of venue, along with insights into equestrian culture. A Legacy of 35 Years The Blair Castle International Horse Trials began in 1978, holding its first three-day event by 1989. Over the years, it has become a crucial international fixture, known for attracting top-class riders globally. The event's growth mirrored the rise of equestrian sports, combining competitive excitement with a celebration of the equestrian lifestyle. Global Participation and Star-Studded Lineup Participants from an impressive 14 nations graced the final edition, showcasing athletes like Tom McEwen and Ros Canter, who are celebrated for their FEI World rankings and Olympic achievements. Figures like Piggy March and Ryuzo Kitajima further elevated the events prestige, making the last competition a nearly epic gathering of equestrian talent. A Celebration of Equestrian Excellence Beyond competition, the Trials celebrated equestrian excellence. Including over 400 horse and rider combinations, events like the Inverness Paving Scottish Grassroots Championships offered diverse participation levels. Notably, Ian Stark competed for the last CCI3*-L class, adding a nostalgic layer to the rich equestrian history celebrated that weekend. A Legacy Continued The trials emphasized enduring dedication. Riders like Ian Stark epitomized a commitment to equestrian sports. The qualities demonstrated by him and others set a standard for aspiring professionals, ensuring that Scottish equestrianism remains influential in the sports global dynamics. Emotional Farewell The conclusion of the Blair Castle International Horse Trials signified an emotional farewell for riders, volunteers, and fans. People like Jessica Elliott, who has been involved since her teenage years, shared poignant memories. Similarly, Sally Murray expressed the personal loss of a cherished community venue that held years of personal and competitive achievements. The Human Element While competition often drives sporting events, the emotional ties between participants and venues underscore the unique nature of equestrian trials. Anecdotes from shared experiences reveal a deeper bond, as the trials have become a yearly tradition for many involved. The Future of the Trials Though ending at Blair Castle, the Trials future remains bright. Scone Palace has been announced as the new host, beginning in 2025, keeping the event alive in Perthshire. This transition was met with enthusiasm and optimism, as it promises to uphold the Trials legendary status within a fresh-to-the-location setting. Opportunities for an Updated Approach Moving to Scone Palace offers opportunities to introduce new features while retaining beloved traditions. With changes often come exciting new competitions and innovative presentations that rejuvenate and invigorate age-old events. Highlights of the Final Event The final event toasted to victories like Piggy March leading from start to finish in the CCI3*-L, culminating with a deserved celebration for her and her team. Locals, like Wills Oakden triumphing in the CCI4*L and completing a winning hat-trick, added a touching homage to personal aspirations and connections with the Trials site. Stories Worth Sharing These victories reflect stories of dedication and perseverance that will linger in the minds of equestrian enthusiasts. They symbolize the spirit of competition and the pursuit of excellence that define what these events are all about. Community and Environmental Impact While equestrian events focus on sport, the deeper societal and environmental impacts remain laudable. The many volunteers, competitors, and visitors shaped the regional character, though the decision to stop at Blair Castle emphasizes the estate's focus on regenerative agriculture. Balancing Traditions With Innovations Exploring regenerative practices shows how event venues can balance sporting traditions with modern sustainability needs. As part of this balance, equestrian sports continue to blossom, blending classic equestrian allure with contemporary environmental consciousness. A Lasting Legacy Despite the end of this chapter, the British Horse Society remains a crucial backbone for Scottish equestrian pursuits. Their ongoing support ensures equestrian activities thrive, regardless of location. Continuity promises fresh chapters with past lessons intact. A Call to Embrace Change The transition invites reflection on the dynamic nature of events, reminding us to celebrate past successes while embracing future changes. The story of equestrian excellence never truly endsit just transforms and continues. Conclusion In remembering the Blair Castle International Horse Trials as a cornerstone of Scottish equestrianism, we acknowledge its lasting influence on both the sport and the communities it touched. As the event moves to Scone Palace, we look forward to new traditions that will surely complement the legacy left behind, keeping the spirit of the Trials alive for future generations. To explore more regarding equestrian supplies and stay ready for your next equestrian activity, visit our diverse collections: Jodhpur Collection, Horse Riding Boot Collection, and Horse Riding Socks Collection. Stay ahead with appropriate horsecare essentials with Everyday Horse Vitamins & Supplements and more at your fingertips.```html```

Would you describe your horse as lazy? There are multiple reasons why your answer might be yes. Perhaps they are lacking fitness, being fed incorrectly for their workload, or bored in their work.Maybe its a bigger training issue, with the horse not understanding what you are asking of them, being slow to respond to your leg aids, or in the habit of falling behind your leg.Of course, physical issues like tack fit and underlying health issues could also be a reason, so rule all of these things out first.All horses are different. Some possess bags of talent, but as soon as you have to work a little bit harder to eek it out of them, they get described as being lazy.The solution? Engaging their brain and inspiring them to be more forward from the off.According to dressage rider Lili Brooksby Dalby, a British Dressage Level 2 trainer and Level 6 judge, its a case of channelling your horses energy into doing something fun, so that they dont fall behind the leg and become unreactive to your aids.Find a lazy horses on switchWhen youre warming up, keep things interesting. For example, ride lots of circles, serpentines and figures of eight; walk over poles on the ground and between tunnels of poles.As well as direct transitions (walk-trot, trot-canter, for example), ask for changes within the pace (such as collected canter to extended canter) and assess how your horse is reacting to your hand and leg aids, advises Lili.Is your horse switched off and lazy? If so, play around, find something they enjoy doing and focus on this.Get to know what works for your horse.Stop niggling with your legsWhen a horse is lazy, its easy to constantly use your legs against their sides. Once youve found the on switch, you need to make the horses reactions to your leg aids even better.When you apply your leg, do you get an instant reaction or do they ignore you?If your horse is lazy and not in front of your leg, theyll become brittle in the contact, explains Lili. Its easy with a lazy horse to get busy with your legs, but in fact they need to remain still so that when you do use them it really means something.Exercise:Divide your leg aids into three categories: (1) a gentle touch, (2) a squeeze and (3) a kick.Whenever you use your legs, start with stage one (a gentle touch).If your horse ignores you, move on to stage two (squeeze), and so on.Sharper transitions for a lazy horseLilis top tip is to pick a certain point to make a transition. This might be when you cross the centre line in your arena, or at a certain post when schooling in a field, or when you reach a certain tree out hacking. Doing this will help you rideprecisely.Exercise:In trot, ride a three-loop serpentine, asking for a transition to walk each time you cross the centre line.Walk for a few strides and then pick up trot again.Control the rhythm and be assertive: decide where you want the transition to happen, prepare for it and be precise.Next, ask for walk to trot transitions on a circle, trotting for a few metres each time.The more you practise, the sharper your horses reactions will become.Grade your leg aids as in exercise two, always starting with the lightest touch.Horse starting to anticipate? Relax! This is a good thing in my opinion, says Lili, as its less work for you.Focus on your contactAs well as accurate transitions, your horse needs to be working in a consistent frame and contact.Begin by trotting on a circle, moving up and down the gears within the pace, says Lili. Again, grade yourleg aids, always starting with the lightest touch, and as your horse goes bigger and moves into medium trot, give with your reins to allow him forwards.Exercise:Ride a 20m circle in trot, making regular changes of pace within the gait.Constantly check how your horse is reacting to your leg, and adapt the aid accordingly if theyre being lazy.Progress to walk-to-canter transitions on a circle.Practise going up and down through the gears in canter, as you did in trot.Collect the canter, for a smaller but active step. Think small, short, round, bouncy.Play around and go from collected to extended canter, and from collected canter to walk.Move on to riding simple changes on a serpentine.Ask for a canter-walk-canter transition each time you cross the centre line.If your horse feels a little heavy in your hands on the transition to walk, ask for a few steps of rein-back and then move forwards again.With all of these exercises, make sure you ride them evenly on both reins. You need to be consistent too. Dont ask your horse to be reactive to your aids one day, and then let them be sluggish to respond the next. Horses learn by repeatedly doing the same thing, so its your job to get them going forward away from your legs every time you ask.All horses are differentA bit like people, some horses simply have more enthusiasm for working that others. My sister and I once rode matching dark bays, who looked very similar but were polar opposites in other ways. The tiniest squeeze with your legs would send Classic forward, and he would tow you into a fence. Marcus, meanwhile, was more whoa than go and my legs always seemed to work the hardest.Marcus often got called lazy. He wasnt really he just needed riding differently to Classic. When the latter horse was cantering on the spot and leaping around because he wanted to go faster, Marcus would be alongside calmly walking on a loose rein. But while Marcus came out of a cross-country startbox a little stuffy, prompting a strong leg all the way to the first fence, Classic zoomed from the word go.So the next time you feel your horse is being lazy, stop and think. Why might they be being this way? Look for ways to inspire them, get to know what they like, and learn to ride them in a way that gets the best from you both. Thats what I did with Marcus and he was one of the best horses Ive ever had.Related contentWhat are the Scales of Training for horses in dressage and flatwork?How well does your horse walk? *VIDEO*Austin OConnors exercises to make a horse sharper off the aidsThe post Exercises to help a lazy horse be more active appeared first on Your Horse.

When was the last time you had your horses teeth checked by a vet or equine dental technician? If you have ever experienced toothache, you will know how painful it can be, as well as the efforts you are prepared to go to in order to relieve the horrendous discomfort.For you and I, painkillers and an emergency trip to the dentist is likely to swiftly solve the problem. Unfortunately, however, our horses dont have this same ability to ask for help when their teeth start to hurt.Regular teeth checks are a vital part of taking care of a horse. For some equines, a yearly check up is enough. In other cases, horses may need to be seen every six months or more often, especially if a problem arises.Whatever length of time passes between teeth checks, the best way to keep horse teeth healthy and spot potential problems early is to keep on top of those visits.Routine raspingDuring a routine teeth check, your horse may need to have their teeth rasped to remove sharp edges and hooks.The upper and lower teeth grind against each other when a horse chews tough grasses in the wild and this process naturally wears teeth down.However, domestic horses typically spend less time grazing and more time chewing hay, haylage and soft feed, which doesnt have the same effect on teeth.Consequently, their teeth wear unevenly and sharp edges and hooks are formed in the horses mouth. These then rub and catch against the cheeks and tongue, causing pain and abscesses.In order to file teeth down to an even level, the horse will wear a gag (see main image) which holds their mouth open so that a rasp can be safely inserted.Unsurprisingly, some horses are not a fan of this and so they are often sedated for the procedure to take place.Signs a horses teeth are hurtingThere are several ways to identify ifyour horse is having problems with theirteeth, and the symptoms tend to dependon the issue.Be observant, advises Dr Melissa Emson, an equine vet and dentist who isamember of the British Association ofEquine Dental Technicians (BAEDT).Doeshe normally have a lump on the side ofhis face and does it disappear? Does hehave nasal discharge from one nostriland is that foul smelling and comingfrom his mouth or the nostril? Theseare all signs of dental disease.Cheek teeth are impossible to view in a horses mouth without a speculum, but most owners can lift the lips to look at the gums and teeth around the incisors and canines.If the incisors are partially hiddenby food material, calculus, or have haypacked between them, your horse willcertainly be experiencing gum diseaseand dental pain, adds Melissa.Have alook at the gum around the teeth. Is ithealthy looking or red and inflamed?You may notice small spot-like lesionswith pus discharging which suggestsmore severe disease.The carrot test for horse teethThe dark pink area on the bottom gum is an ulcer. Photo credit: Dr Melissa Emson/The Equine Dental VetOffering your horse a carrot is a goodindication of incisor health and manyowners will remember exactly when itwas that their horse was first unable tobite into a carrot.Its a memorable moment, so domention it at your horses next dentalexamination as it could be a subtle signof an autoimmune condition that canaffect older horses incisors and canines,says Melissa.Equine odontoclastictooth resorption and hypercementosis(also known as EOTRH) can be diagnosedfrom a simple radiograph which allowsfor the monitoring of the affected teethand will detail if extraction is required.Very observant owners may notice thattheir horse eats on only one side of theirmouth, or that they chomp (more akin toa crocodile eating) instead of chewing. They aredoing this to avoid pain.Chewing like this can cause largetransverse ridges on the surface of thetooth in addition to the regular enamelovergrowths to the edges of the teeth,says Melissa.This is an uncomfortablemouth as it is, but introduce a bit, anoseband and a contact and this cancause a very painful and explosiveresponse. Some sufferers will remainvery still in the contact, however, so youwould never know.Hiding tooth painIts important to understand that horses are designed to hide dental painand will carry on eating regardless. So its possible that your horse is in pain, but not showing it, which is why regular teeth check ups are so important.Their natural diet of grass is veryeasy to eat with poor dentition, explains Melissa.Horsesuse their incisors to grasp food and pullit away, whereas their cheek teeth grindfood down to a short enough length forthe gut to digest.While grass is abundant they maintain their condition well, so a lot of my clients are totally unaware of any issues and are absolutely devastated when I show them the problems inside their horses mouth.Those horses will always find a way toeat, so by the time they are showing signsof discomfort, they have been strugglingfor a while. This is why we need to beproactive, adds Melissa.Winter is the mostcommon time period for horses to show signsof dental discomfort.After a summer out at grass, horses canbe suddenly introduced to hay, whichrequires a stronger power stroke to grindit down compared to softer grass,explains Melissa. Minor dental painwhich was bearable at grass may nowbecome less so when under this newwinter feeding regime.Common causes of dental disease in horsesCommon causes of dental disease in horsesinclude:Teeth with routine sharp enamelovergrowths that cause trauma to thecheek or tongue.Overgrown teeth due to the opposingtooth being absent or displaced.Diastemas (gaps) between the teethwith food packing and subsequent painfulgum disease.Diseased teeth; ie, infundibulardisease, or pulp cavity defects potentiallyleading to fractures abscess/sinusinfection.Fractured, displaced, missing,additional, or loose teeth.Smooth teeth seen in older horseswhich makes it difficult for them to chewcoarse, fibrous foods.Tooth decay, or caries, results in a roughsurface against soft tissue/the cheek/thetongue.Unerupted/blind, unusually large, ordisplaced wolf teeth.Is sugar bad for horse teeth?Just as too much sugar in a humansdiet is bad for their teeth, the same istrue for the horse and it can causedental issues. Tooth decay, also knownas dental caries, is the result of bacteriametabolising sugars which produce acid as a by-product.The acid attacks the outer layer,the cementum of the teeth, leaving arough surface, explains Melissa. Slide yourtongue over the surface of your teethand they should feel smooth. Nowimagine your teeth feeling like thehoneycomb centre of a Crunchie bar rough, brittle and gritty. That iswhat peripheral cemental defects(PCD) feels like.For this reason, it is important tofeed appropriately for the work yourhorse is doing. Check the sugarquantity in feeds and avoid too manysugary licks and treats.Equine dental technician Penny Brownings agrees.Its true that giving stable and field licks can be bad for your horses teeth. The licks you give your horse for treats are predominantly bound with sugar and sugar syrup, she says. Were seeing an increased number of horses with tooth decay due to the fact theyre being fed more sugary treats and are spending less time grazing as they would do naturally.This unnatural dietary change causes an imbalance in the pH of your horses teeth, which can cause dental caries (tooth decay). Studies are being carried out at Edinburgh University on the effects of pH components fed to your horse, with sugar being one of the main influencers.Alternatives to sugary treatsSearching for carrots in a haynet. Photo credit: Aimi ClarkPenny adds that she wouldnt recommend feeding treats of any kind to your horse. If you want to give a horse something extra to keep them entertained, she suggests one of the following instead:Himalayan salt lick on a string.Vegetables, such as parsnips and swedes, hung up like a kebab.Carrots hidden in hay in a double-netted haynet so your horse has to search to find them.Split hay into two hay nets, hanging one so it swings, and one in its usual place.These are much healthier alternatives to treats, which horses really dont need, and will help prevent tooth decay in your horse, states Penny.Pesky plaqueVeterinary equine dental technician Vikki Fowler often has to remove plaque build up from a horses teeth.Its super easy and quick to do,and it makes a massive difference,she says. One particular horseI visited had plaque build up on hiscanine teeth. Because these teetharent used to eat, the mineraldeposits accumulate over time andarent removed naturally by theprocess of the horse eatingroughage.From my experience, Ive noticedthat horses who drink from naturalsources, such as bore holes, naturalsprings and streams, tend to getthese build ups more significantlydue to the larger amounts ofminerals in the water.If not dealt with, this plaquebuild up causes localised gingivitisand can lead to gum recession.When plaque becomes large, it pushes into thetongue and can affect bitplacement too, so it is importantthat it is removed for the horsescomfort and mouth health.How to keep horse teeth healthyMelissa advises doing the following when it comes to feeding a horse in order to keep their teeth healthy:Young horses who are turned out 24/7have considerably better wear patternsand healthier mouths than those standingin a stable eating from haynets, so thisgives them a great start to life.Horses are designed to eat from thefloor and will wear their teeth significantlybetter if you feed from there.Undertake research to find out whatfeed is appropriate for your horse, andwhether it is really essential to buy allthose supplements and sugary treats.Source a finer meadow hay for olderhorses and provide hay replacers, such asfibre nuts/alfalfa nuts soaked in a trugbucket alongside hay as an alternative.If your horse has diastemas (gaps), ensure thattheir feed doesnt contain chaff which canlodge in the gaps.Listen and follow instructions after anydental examination. However, be realisticwhen it comes to management changesand discuss what works for you and yourhorse.General health is also important and Ilike my older clients to be regularly testedfor Cushings, or monitored if on treatment.If you are able to brush your horsesincisors and canines with a softtoothbrush, I recommend thatyou do so in order to remove any calculusor feed that may be lodged.How can horse owners help?The aim is for the horse to eat using thewhole of his mouth comfortably so that,longevity-wise, his teeth last for years,says Melissa. What we dont want is forthe horse to eat in just one small area ofhis mouth where he finds it comfortableand overly wear down those teeth.Because horses dont show theirdental pain to their connectionsparticularly obviously, the mostimportant course of action for anyowner is to have their horses teeththoroughly examined regularly bya qualified BAEDT technician, or anequine vet, every six to 12 months.Some horses may require checks more often than this; follow your vet or dentists advice. Regular examinations allow forearly detection of new problems whichcan be addressed immediately witha plan between you and your vet or equine dental technician.Main image: copyright ShutterstockRelated contentShould wolf teeth be removed?How to tell a horses age by looking at their teethHow to identify and prevent colic in horsesHow do horses sleep?13 signs a horse is happyThe post How to keep horse teeth healthy and pain free appeared first on Your Horse.

Welcome to Horse Illustrateds weekly installment of the Right Horse Adoptable Horse of the Week, offered in partnership with the ASPCAs Right Horse program. This weeks adoptable horse is Vision of Elias! Check back weekly for a new featured horse so you can find your Right Horse.Photo courtesy Horse and Hound Rescue FoundationAdoptable Horse: Vision of Elias, a 5-year-old, 16.1hh Thoroughbred geldingOrganization: Horse and Hound Rescue Foundation, Guthrie, Okla.Get to Know Adoptable Horse Vision of EliasVision of Elias is handsome gelding looking for his forever home. As Elias receives the downtime he deserves, Horse and Hounds dedicated volunteers are hard at work evaluating his unique qualities and capabilities. What theyve discovered is a horse with a fun and sweet personality, eager to connect with humans and eager to please. Elias listens well and demonstrates a willingness to learn, making him a standout candidate for adoption. Its important to note that Elias requires a rider who can appreciate his sensitive nature and provide the reassurance and guidance he needs to thrive.Sporty and sound, Elias possesses a natural athleticism that sets him apart. Whether its tackling a challenging course in the arena or hitting the trails for a scenic ride, he thrives in environments that allow him to showcase his skills and abilities.Photo courtesy Horse and Hound Rescue FoundationContact Horse and Hound Rescue Foundationtoday about ASPCA Right Horse Adoptable Horse of the Week, Elias!ASPCA Right HorseASPCA Right Horse is the online adoption platform of The Right Horse Initiative, a collection of equine industry and welfare professionals and advocates working together to improve the lives of horses in transition. A program of the ASPCA, their goal is to massively increase horse adoption in the United States. To find more adoptable horses and foster horses, visit www.myrighthorse.org. To learn more about The Right Horse, a program of the ASPCA, visit www.aspcarighthorse.org.The post ASPCA Right Horse Adoptable Horse of the Week: Vision of Elias appeared first on Horse Illustrated Magazine.

Section Key Points Understanding Where Fat is Stored Neck: Fat as a crest, associated with laminitis and EMS Body: Deposits behind withers, along rib cage, over back Quarters: Rounded buttocks with a gutter down the middle Assessing Body Condition Neck: Healthy neck vs. overweight with fatty crest Body: Feelable ribs, defined spine, no fatty deposits Quarters: Muscular with no middle crease Dietary Adjustments Restrict Grazing: Use strip grazing, avoid lush pastures Soaked Hay: Remove sugar to reduce calorie intake Low-Calorie Supplements: Ensure nutrients without excess calories Appropriate Forage: Low NSCs forage for weight loss Exercise and Activity Regular Exercise: Walking, trotting to burn calories Seasonal Weight Loss: Adjust diet and exercise per season Monitoring and Maintenance Body Condition Scoring: Regular assessments Weight Checks: Monitor and feed based on body weight Health Implications Laminitis and EMS: Linked to excess neck and body fat Practical Tips for Summer Stable in Afternoon: Reduce grazing time Use Grazing Muzzles: Limit grass intake Increase Water Intake: Ensure hydration Conclusion Implement dietary adjustments, exercises, monitoring Understand fat storage, assess condition accurately Consult veterinary professionals for advice Exploring Effective Weight Management Strategies for Hardy Fat Cobs and Native Breeds in Summer Managing the weight of hardy fat cobs and native breeds, especially during the summer months, is crucial for their health and well-being. These breeds are often prone to obesity and associated metabolic issues, such as insulin dysregulation and laminitis. In this comprehensive guide, discover how to implement effective weight management strategies for your hardy cob or native breed horse. Understanding Where Fat is Stored Before diving into weight management, it's essential to understand where fat is stored on your horses body. Fat deposits are commonly found in various areas: On the Neck: Fat is stored as a crest on top of the neck and on the sides. A fatty crest is not just aesthetically undesirable but also a welfare issue closely associated with laminitis and Equine Metabolic Syndrome (EMS). Along the Body: Fat deposits are found behind the withers, along the rib cage, over the back, and around the loins. An overweight horse will have a spine set in a gutter, and it will be difficult to feel the ribs. On the Quarters: Overweight cobs have apple-like, rounded buttocks with a gutter running down the middle, which differs from muscular quarters that lack such creases. Assessing Body Condition Accurately assessing your horses body condition is the first step in any weight management plan. Consider the following metrics: Neck: A healthy neck joins the shoulder with good definition, while an overweight neck merges with the shoulder with little angulation and a noticeable fatty crest. Body: Feelable ribs, a defined spine, and identifiable hip bones indicate a healthy body condition. Avoid a spine set in a gutter and fatty deposits behind the withers. Quarters: Muscular quarters should have no crease running down the middle, resembling an upside-down C shape from the rear. Dietary Adjustments Dietary changes are critical for managing weight in hardy cobs and native breeds. Restrict Grazing Use strip grazing to limit access to lush pastures, especially during summer when grass is rich in calories and sugars. Avoid good grazing altogether if possible, as it can lead to rapid weight gain. Soaked Hay Feed hay that has been soaked to remove most of the sugar, thereby reducing caloric intake without starving the horse. Low-Calorie Supplements Choose low-calorie vitamin and mineral supplements to ensure your horse receives necessary nutrients without excess calories. Consider products from the Everyday Horse Vitamins & Supplements collection. Appropriate Forage Provide preserved forage low in Non-Structural Carbohydrates (NSCs) to help induce weight loss and improve insulin sensitivity, particularly important for native breeds. More detailed information can be found in resources from reputable equine welfare organizations (source). Exercise and Activity Exercise plays a vital role in weight management and overall health. Regular Exercise Incorporate regular exercise into your horses routine. Consider activities like walking and trotting, which help burn calories and improve insulin sensitivity. Seasonal Weight Loss Promote seasonal weight loss by adjusting diet and exercise regimens according to the season. During summer, for example, increase exercise and reduce caloric intake to facilitate weight loss. Monitoring and Maintenance Regular monitoring is essential to ensuring that your weight management plan is effective. Body Condition Scoring Regularly assess your horses body condition using the body condition scoring system to identify any changes early on. Weight Checks Monitor your horses weight regularly. If weight loss is needed, feed your horse 1.5% of their body weight in forage per day, adjusting as necessary. Health Implications Obesity in hardy cobs and native breeds is associated with serious health issues. Laminitis and EMS Excess weight, particularly fat stored around the neck and body, is closely linked with laminitis and Equine Metabolic Syndrome (EMS). These conditions can be debilitating and require careful management. For more information about weight management and these conditions, visit The Ride Out. Practical Tips for Summer During the summer, when grass is particularly lush and calorie-dense, follow these practical tips: Stable in the Afternoon: Stable your horse in the afternoon to late evening to reduce grazing time. Use Grazing Muzzles: If grazing is necessary, use grazing muzzles to limit grass intake. Increase Water Intake: Ensure your horse has access to plenty of fresh water to stay hydrated during hot summer months. Conclusion Managing the weight of hardy fat cobs and native breeds requires a multifaceted approach that includes dietary adjustments, regular exercise, and continuous monitoring. By understanding where fat is stored, assessing body condition accurately, and implementing effective weight management strategies, you can help your horse maintain a healthy weight and reduce the risk of associated metabolic issues. For additional advice, consulting with veterinary professionals is highly recommended. Learn more about specific products like Horse Riding Boot Collection and Horse Riding Gloves Collection that can support your horse's active lifestyle. ```html```

Times for Friday Night Jumping @ Gransha Equestrian Centre.

Section Details Understanding Pony Measurements Large Pony: Over 13.2 hands but not exceeding 14.2 hands. Medium Pony: Over 12.2 hands but not exceeding 13.2 hands. Small Pony: Does not exceed 12.2 hands. Measurement affects competition eligibility. Pre-Competition Measurements Pony must be registered before being measured. Ponies <6 years: Temporary measurement card, yearly assessment. Measurements on level, concrete or paved surface. Equipment and Tack Regulations Tack and equipment must be well-fitted and maintained. Certain bits and nosebands not allowed. Martingales restrictions in some classes. Rider and Pony Welfare Exhausted or lame ponies should not compete, no excessive whipping. Pony can be dismissed for disease or unsafe conditions. Competition Rules and Penalties Preliminary equitation tests in Special Olympics events. Falls result in disqualification. Course and Class Requirements Hunter classes: courses with direction changes. Equitation classes: evaluate rider skill and horse performance. Handling Ties and Disputes Judges resolve ties, final decision unless rule violation found. Safety and Conduct Unsportsmanlike conduct results in dismissal. Excessive whip use is penalized. Competing with a 14.2 Pony as a Teen or Adult in Equestrian SportsHorse riding is an exhilarating sport that bridges humans and animals in a dance of skill, trust, and camaraderie. At Just Horse Riders, we're here to support your equestrian passions with an unmatched range of horse riding apparel and equestrian supplements. Our blog today will navigate the intricacies of competing with a 14.2-hand pony for teenage and adult equestrians, ensuring you and your pony trot the path of success seamlessly.Understanding Pony MeasurementsClassifying ponies starts with understanding the height categories set by the United States Equestrian Federation (USEF). They categorize ponies into three main groups: Large Pony: Over 13.2 hands but not exceeding 14.2 hands. Medium Pony: Over 12.2 hands but not exceeding 13.2 hands. Small Pony: Does not exceed 12.2 hands.Height is a critical factor for eligibility in competitions and one of the first steps for competitors is ensuring your pony measures correctly.Pre-Competition MeasurementsPrior to joining the competition, a formal measurement process is conducted. It's imperative to know the nuances of this procedure: Your pony must be registered in the competition before it can be measured. Ponies under six years old get a Temporary measurement card and must be assessed yearly until they turn six. Measurements are performed on a level, concrete, or paved surface where the pony must stand evenly square.Equipment and Tack RegulationsEnsuring safety and well-being through proper equipment and tack is non-negotiable. Here's what you need to look out for: All tack and equipment must be impeccably fitted and well-maintained. Certain bits and nosebands, such as three-ring bits and figure-eight nosebands, are not allowed. Martingales (except standing or running) are prohibited in select classes.Rider and Pony WelfareWelfare remains at the core of all competitions. Judges and officials enforce these standards, ensuring: Exhausted or lame ponies should not compete, and excessive whipping is forbidden. In cases of obvious disease or unsafe conditions, the judges can dismiss the pony.Strict adherence to these rules ensures the well-being of both rider and pony is prioritized over all else.Competition Rules and PenaltiesA working knowledge of competition-specific rules is crucial. For instance: Special Olympics equestrian events require riders to pass preliminary equitation tests, with specific penalties for exiting the arena early. Falls in the arena, defined as a rider or horse coming into contact with the ground, lead to disqualification.Understanding these regulations minimizes the risk of unnecessary penalties during the competition.Course and Class RequirementsDifferent classes demand varying requirements: In Hunter classes, courses should include multiple direction changes. For Equitation classes, rider skill and horse performance, such as maintaining a regular walk, are evaluated.Handling Ties and DisputesCompetitions often require tactful resolution of ties and disputes: Judges may declare the winner after reviewing score sheets during ties. Their decisions are final unless an appeal reveals rule violations.This allows for fair play and ensures rules are followed throughout the competition.Safety and ConductSafety and proper conduct should be embedded in every participant's mindset, preventing mishaps: Unsportsmanlike conduct, like being abusive towards ponies or being unable to control them, results in dismissal. Appropriate whip use is enforced, with excessive actions promptly penalized.ConclusionCompeting with a 14.2-hand pony invites a whirlwind of challenges and triumphs, supported by unwavering adherence to rules and regulations. By being thorough in understanding pony measurements, complying with equipment standards, safeguarding welfare, and grasping competition rules, you'll ensure a rewarding equestrian journey. Every pony deserves a rider who respects and loves the sport, just as Just Horse Riders loves equipping you for the ride. Whether browsing our extensive horse riding boot collection or gearing up with fly protection essentials, allow us to be part of your equestrian adventures.Additional ResourcesFor more information, explore these valuable resources: US Equestrian Federation Measurement Guide Special Olympics Equestrian Rules Cornell CALS Horse Show General Rules