Horses and ponies need to eat at least 1.5% of their body weight in forage each day. | iStockQ. I have an overweight pony I started on a weight-loss program recently. I know a good way to ensure Im giving him the right amount of forage is to calculate the weight of the forage as a percentage of his body weight. Should I calculate this based on his current (overweight) body weight, or his ideal body weight?A. It is excellent that you realized your pony should be on a weight-loss program. Ponies, even more so than horses, are often easy keepers, which means they metabolize feeds efficiently, making them prone to obesity and related health challenges. I would strongly encourage you to have your veterinarian evaluate your pony for potential metabolic issues to make sure you arent fighting a more complicated problem.Calculating Equine Forage IntakeThere are a couple trains of thought about weight reduction and how to calculate desired feed intake on a percent of body weight basis. The common thread running through all these methods is that reducing caloric intake is key to weight loss. I would recommend no matter what method you choose, you come up with a way to consistently and objectively evaluate your horses weight, be it pounds of body weight or inches (or both). Also consider how you can increase his calorie expenditure, or the amount of exercise he gets in a day. A combination of decreasing calorie intake and increasing calorie expenditure will produce the best results.One common recommendation from nutritionists is to feed the horse or pony 1.5% of their current body weight in forage. The other is to feed him 2% of the desired body weight in forage. Since you did not give the type of pony or his current weight, I am going to show example calculations for a 14-hand Welsh pony that weighs 850 pounds with an ideal weight of 750 pounds. Using the 1.5% of current weight method, he should eat approximately 13 pounds of hay per day. Fed at 2% of desired body weight, he should eat 15 pounds of hay per day. You did not mention how much you currently feed, but I would caution against dropping the amount too quickly or drastically. Always feed at least 1.5% of the horses current weight, unless a veterinarian directs otherwise. Restricting forage too much can induce hyperlipidemia (an excess of lipids in the bloodstream), cause insulin resistance issues, and lead to stereotypies such as wood chewing.Other Factors in Equine Weight LossReducing the amount of forage offered per day will help your pony lose weight, but its also important to consider the type of hay youre feeding. It should be a more mature grass hay with a neutral detergent fiber (NDF) level of between 50% and 65%. A measure of insoluble fiber, the higher the NDF, the fuller your horse will feel, decreasing his appetite (similar to when people trying to lose weight increase their fiber intake. Having your hay analyzed is the best way to determine the NDF content. Avoid immature grass hay and legume hays, because they usually contain more calories than your pony needs.Also ensure your pony doesnt consume his allotted hay too quickly. You can accomplish this by feeding flakes of hay every few hours or dividing the hay into multiple meals. You can also invest in a hay net with very small holes, or even put your hay in multiple nets, to make it more challenging for your pony to pull out the hay.Take-Home MessageAdjusting the amount and type of hay your pony eats can help him lose weight efficiently and safely. Make sure to monitor your ponys weight loss carefully. Once he reaches the desired weight you might need to increase his hay intake to help him maintain a healthy weight. Work closely with your veterinarian and an equine nutritionist to ensure your pony does not have any underlying health conditions, and confirm his diet meets his nutritional needs.

Pros Cons Key Considerations Increased Exercise and Socialization Risk of Mismanagement Clear Loan Agreement Financial Benefits Emotional Attachment References and Trials Training and Development Disputes Over Costs and Care Regular Communication Reduced Owner Responsibilities Loss of Control Exploring the Pros and Cons of Loaning Out Your Young Horse: Is It the Right Move? Loaning out a young horse can be a significant decision, filled with both potential benefits and pitfalls. Whether you are a seasoned horse owner or just starting out, understanding the pros and cons of this arrangement is crucial to ensure the well-being of both you and your horse. The Benefits of Loaning Out Your Young Horse Increased Exercise and Socialization One of the primary advantages of loaning out your young horse is that it ensures the horse receives regular exercise and socialization. In a part loan or share arrangement, the horse is typically exercised and cared for by the loanee for a specified number of days a week, which can help maintain the horse's physical and mental health. [Source] Financial Benefits Loaning out your horse can also provide financial relief. The loanee often contributes to the costs of caring for the horse, such as livery, feed, and veterinary expenses. This shared financial responsibility can be particularly beneficial for owners who are stretched financially or need help with the ongoing costs of horse care. [Source] Training and Development A loan arrangement can be an excellent way to ensure your young horse receives consistent training and development. Especially in a full loan scenario, the loanee is responsible for the full care of the horse, including training, which can help the horse develop its skills and behaviors under the guidance of an experienced rider. Reduced Owner Responsibilities For owners who cannot dedicate the necessary time to their horses, loaning can be a viable solution. It allows the owner to have some nights off or reduce their daily responsibilities while knowing the horse is being well cared for. The Drawbacks of Loaning Out Your Young Horse Risk of Mismanagement One of the significant risks associated with loaning out your horse is the potential for mismanagement. There have been cases where horses have been mistreated or sold without the owner's knowledge. It is essential to thoroughly vet the loanee, including checking references and ensuring they have the necessary equestrian experience. [Source] Emotional Attachment Loan arrangements can lead to strong emotional bonds between the loanee and the horse, which can be challenging when the loan period ends. It is crucial for both parties to remember that the horse does not belong to the loanee, and there is always a chance the owner could decide to terminate the loan or sell the horse. Disputes Over Costs and Care Disputes can arise regarding who is responsible for various costs, such as veterinary bills or farrier services. A well-drafted loan agreement is vital to avoid such conflicts. The agreement should clearly outline the responsibilities of both parties, including financial obligations and care requirements. Loss of Control When you loan out your horse, you may have less control over its daily care and activities. This can be particularly concerning if the loanee has different training methods or care standards than you do. Regular communication and clear guidelines in the loan agreement can help mitigate this issue. Key Considerations for a Successful Loan Arrangement Clear Loan Agreement A comprehensive loan agreement is the cornerstone of a successful loan arrangement. This document should cover all aspects of the loan, including the duration, financial contributions, care responsibilities, and any specific requirements for the horse's well-being. It should be signed by both parties and tailored to the specific needs of the horse and the arrangement. References and Trials Before finalizing a loan, it is advisable to obtain references from the loanee to ensure they are trustworthy and experienced. A trial period can also be beneficial to see how the horse is cared for and to assess the compatibility between the loanee and the horse. Regular Communication Maintaining open and regular communication between the owner and the loanee is crucial. This ensures that any issues are addressed promptly and that both parties are satisfied with the arrangement. Regular updates on the horse's condition and any changes in care can help build trust and prevent misunderstandings. Conclusion Loaning out your young horse can be a rewarding experience for both you and the horse, but it requires careful consideration and planning. By understanding the pros and cons, drafting a clear loan agreement, and ensuring regular communication, you can create a beneficial arrangement that meets the needs of all parties involved. Before making a decision, take the time to weigh the advantages and disadvantages, and do not hesitate to seek advice from equine professionals. Remember, the well-being of your horse should always be the top priority. For more detailed information, consider exploring the Jodhpur Collection, Horse Riding Boot Collection, and Horse Riding Gloves Collection for some high-quality equipment to ensure a fruitful horse-riding experience.```html```

The Tennessee Department of Agriculture recently confirmed one case of equine West Nile virus (WNV) in Hickman County. No additional information is currently available.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.

On November 13, an 8-year-old Quarter Horse mare in Canyon County, Idaho, tested positive for pigeon fever. The horse developed clinical signs on November 7, including two large pectoral abscesses that ruptured. She is now recovering, and two additional horses are exposed.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.About Pigeon FeverPigeon fever is a bacterial infection that affects cattle and horses. It can cause large abscesses, most commonly on the chest and under the belly. Horses become infected when bacteria enters through broken skin, such as small scrapes or wounds. Peak season for infection is late summer through fall.Good horse health safety practices are key to limiting the spread of pigeon fever. These practices include:Fly control;Not sharing water buckets or equipment; andAvoiding tying horses in high-traffic areas.If a horse owner suspects that their animal is affected, they should contact their veterinarian.

On November 13, a 16-year-old Quarter Horse gelding in Canyon County, Idaho, tested positive for strangles. The horse developed clinical signs on October 31, including fever, bilateral purulent nasal discharge, submandibular swelling, and a submandibular lymph node abscess. He is currently recovering. One additional horse is suspected positive.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.About StranglesStranglesin horses is an infection caused byStreptococcus equisubspeciesequiand spread through direct contact with other equids or contaminated surfaces. Horses that arent showing clinical signs can harbor and spread the bacteria, and recovered horses remain contagious for at least six weeks, with the potential to cause outbreaks long-term.Infected horses can exhibit a variety of clinical signs:FeverSwollen and/or abscessed lymph nodesNasal dischargeCoughing or wheezingMuscle swellingDifficulty swallowingVeterinarians diagnose horses using polymerase chain reaction (PCR) testing with either a nasal swab, wash, or an abscess sample, and they treat most cases based on clinical signs, implementing antibiotics for severe cases. Overuse of antibiotics can prevent an infected horse from developing immunity. Most horses make a full recovery in three to four weeks.A vaccine is available but not always effective. Biosecurity measures of quarantining new horses at a facility and maintaining high standards of hygiene and disinfecting surfaces can helplower the risk of outbreakorcontain one when it occurs.

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November 14, 2024 Ocala, FL Karen Lipp (USA) and her long-time partner Infinity were the days big winners with a new career high score in the Grand Prix CDI3* for Freestyle on Thursday, November 14, the opening day of the World Equestrian Center Ocala (WEC) November Dressage CDI3* presented byHampton Green Farms. The pair has been competing at the level for less[...]Read MoreThe post Career High Scores Set Tone on Day One at World Equestrian Center Ocala November Dressage CDI3* Show appeared first on World Equestrian Center.

The University of Edinburgh is asking the equestrian community for help as it seeks to examine the current state of knowledge in horse genetics across the UK and Europe.The educational institution is asking horse owners, riders, vets, breeders, farriers, trainers and any other members of the equestrian community to take part in an anonymous online survey.Results of the survey will help the University of Edinburgh, which is collaborating with researchers at the University of Florida on this project, to find out what equestrian stakeholders know about horse genetics and genetic diseases and want from future genetics research.A similar study has already taken place in the USA as an important part of a broader project launched by the Horse Genome Workshop.If you are interested in genetics of coat colours, performance, or different diseases and want to influence the direction of future equine genetics research then this survey is for you.The aim of the survey is to obtain information to help develop educational programmes and resources that meet the practical needs of those working with and caring for horses, as well as to better inform future research regarding horse health and management.Five sectionsThe questionnaire is divided into five sections and includes questions about you, a short quiz on genetics, questions about your priorities and interests in genetics, questions about your experience with horse health and some concluding questions.The survey is open to anyone involved in the equine industry who is aged over 18 and takes approximately seven minutes to complete.You do not have to provide any identifying information when completing the survey but if you choose to provide a contact email address at the end of the study you will be added to the Horse Genome Workship mailing list.For further information contact Dr Victoria Lindsay-McGee, Royal (Dick) School of Veterinary Studies, University of Edinburgh onvictoria.lindsay-mcgee@ed.ac.uk.To complete the survey, click here.Further readingTeenager rushed to hospital just hours after eventing winPonies owned by couple banned from keeping animals successfully rehomedBrooke influences landmark animal welfare bill in PakistanThe post University requests help from equine community for genetics survey appeared first on Your Horse.

Section Details Understanding the Types of Turnout Rugs Lightweight: 0-150g fill, mild climates, spring/autumn. Medium-Weight: 200-250g fill, moderate winter weather. Heavyweight: 300g+ fill, colder climates below 0C. Considering Your Pony's Specific Needs Clipped vs. Unclipped: More insulation needed for clipped ponies. Weather Conditions: Waterproof and wind-resistant rugs for rainy/windy settings. Measuring and Fitting the Rug Measure from the center of the chest to the tail. Ensure rug sits ahead of withers, extends to top of tail. Strap adjustments: hands-width space for movement. Key Features to Look For Waterproof/Breathable: High denier count (600D or 1,680D). Neck Attachments: Highneck/detachable for warmth, prevents water leaks. Pleats/Gussets: Promote mobility, prevent restrictions. Tail Flaps: Protection against drafts/rain. Maintenance and Care Wash with specialty detergent, avoid fabric softeners. Use waterproofing rinses occasionally. Air dry to preserve fabric. Brush off dirt regularly. Choosing the Right Turnout Rug for Your Fine Show Pony: Tips and Recommendations Providing your fine show pony with the proper turnout rug is essential for ensuring their comfort and performance, come rain or shine. Throughout this article, we will explore expert tips and recommendations on selecting the best turnout rug for your beloved equine companion. Understanding the Types of Turnout Rugs Turnout rugs are designed to shield your horse from diverse weather conditions while offering necessary warmth and comfort. Depending on your pony's needs, here are the main types to consider: Lightweight Turnout Rugs Perfect for milder climates, these rugs have a fill weight of 0-150g and are optimal during spring and autumn to protect against wind and light rain. For more information on types, check Rainy Weather Coats. Medium-Weight Turnout Rugs Offering a great balance between heat retention and breathability, these rugs typically have a fill weight of 200-250g. Theyre perfect for moderate winter weather conditions. Heavyweight Turnout Rugs Essential for protecting ponies in colder climates below 0C, these rugs usually come with a fill weight of around 300g or more. This ensures your pony is warm and comfortable during harsher cold snaps. Considering Your Pony's Specific Needs Clipped vs. Unclipped Clipped ponies generally require more insulation. In contrast, an unclipped pony can usually make do with a lighter, waterproof turnout rug. Its essential to match the rugs warmth to your pony's coat condition. Weather Conditions The weather significantly influences about which rug to pick. A high-density waterproof rug is a must for rainy days, while wind-resistant designs are needed for breezy settings. Learn more about horse rug types here. Measuring and Fitting the Rug Ensuring a proper fit is critical for your pony's comfort and movement freedom. Here's how to measure: Measure from the center of the chest, alongside the body, to the top of the tail. The proper rug will sit a few inches ahead of the withers and extend to the top of the tail. Ensure strap adjustments have a hands-width space to prevent any restrictive movement. Key Features to Look For Waterproof and Breathable Materials A well-constructed turnout rug uses special fabrics for waterproofing and breathability. Look for high denier count rugs (such as 600D or 1,680D) for greater durability over time. For insights into waterproof fabric durability, visit Waterproof Fabrics. Neck Attachments Rugs offering highneck and detachable neck pieces can provide additional warmth and ensure no water leaks into the rug. This feature is especially valuable in wet and windy weather conditions. Pleats and Gussets These design details promote mobility, accommodating ponies with wider chests and shoulders, while pleats aid in preventing restrictions due to movement. Tail Flaps Tail flaps are advantageous as they protect against drafts and rain, keeping the tail and rump area comfortable and dry. Maintenance and Care Proper maintenance is crucial for extending the lifespan of your turnout rug: Wash with a specialty detergent for horse rugs; avoid fabric softeners. Use waterproofing rinses occasionally to maintain the rugs protective features. Air dry rather than machine drying to preserve the rugs fabric integrity. Brush off dirt regularly; this aids in keeping the rugs breathable nature intact. Conclusion In conclusion, selecting the appropriate turnout rug for your pony requires attention to their specific needs and environmental conditions. By considering the types, weather conditions, and rug features, you can keep your pony protected and at ease all year round. Interested in more equestrian gear? Check out our extensive Turnout Rugs Collection today!