Working horse and donkey charity Brooke has received the largest share of a 10,000 prize pot, donated by SPILLERS, following an online public vote to decide which charity should receive the most money.The prize fund was divided between five equine charities with a percentage donation of the full amount being awarded to each charity based on the number of votes they received.Brooke, who are the worlds largest equine welfare organisation, had received the most votes from the equestrian community when voting closed on Friday 8 November and consequently it will receive a cheque for 4,220.The Riding for the Disabled Association will receive 2,510, Redwings will be awarded 2,230, Riders Minds will get 540 while the Injured Jockeys Fund will be awarded 500.The initiative is a part of feed manufacturer SPILLERS commitment to supporting the welfare and wellbeing of horses, ponies and the people that care for them.The five equine charities who were shortlisted were:Brooke Action for Working Horses and Donkeys, an international charity dedicated to protecting the lives of working equines.Injured Jockeys Fundwhich has provided vital support to injured jockeys and their families for nearly six decades.The Riding for the Disabled Associationwhich supports over 22,500 disabled adults and children each year with riding, carriage driving and non-ridden experiences.Redwings Horse Sanctuary,a charity committed to rescuing abandoned, mistreated and neglected equines across the UK.Riders Minds,a vital online resource dedicated to supporting the mental health of equestrians in the UK.We are proud to be able to support these five admirable charities in this way and it makes it extra special that the donations have been chosen by you, our valued community. Thank you to all who voted, to help support their important work, saidClaire Dyett, marketing manager at Mars Horsecare, home of SPILLERS.Further readingArmy horse returns to Household Cavalry after London incidentWorld Horse Welfare celebrates its grooms with special dayBrooke influences landmark animal welfare bill in PakistanThe post Brooke awarded largest slice of Spillers donation thanks to public vote appeared first on Your Horse.

Exciting news from Narrow Water! Our very own Michael and his horse Maximum Jay are back in the competition arena. They recently competed at the unaffiliated prix St George level and gained a respectable 62%. This was all in preparation for their upcoming affiliated competitions in the coming weeks. We couldn't be prouder of their hard work and dedication to their sport. Stay tuned for more updates on their journey to success! #TeamNarrowWater #HorseRidingChampions

Ann Geraldine OMalley bred Monbegs 4* Libertine and Elizabeth Power bred Phillip Duttons 4* Short winner Azure. Great work by Irish breeders continue to prove to the world that Irish is best for Eventing as the season winds down. See below the latest International Eventing Results The Event at Terra Nova (USA) 14th 17th November 2024 CCI 4* Long 5th Monbeg Libertine (ISH) 2013 gelding by Womanizer (KWPN) out of Chill Lady [ISH] by Chillout [ISH]. Breeder: Ann Geraldine OMalley (Mayo). Rider: Tim Bourke (IRL) 36.0, 6.2, 22.2 = 64.6. CCI 4* Short 1st Azure (ISH) 2012 mare by Omar (BWP) out of Cavalier Roselier (ISH) by Cavalier Royale (HOLST). Breeder: Elizabeth Power, Rider: Phillip Dutton (USA) 33.6, 0, 9.6 = 43.2 6th SBT Barolo (ISH)[was CSF High on Life] 2010 gelding by Loughehoe Guy (ISH)[TIH] out of Tentore Flight (AES)(P) by Carrolls Flight (AES). Breeder: []

Changing Lives through Horses Centre Award 2024 - Thursday 7th November Exciting News! Wirral Riding Centre Wins Prestigious AwardWe are thrilled to announce that Wirral Riding Centre has been awarded the Changing Lives through Horses Centre Award for 2024! This remarkable achievement recognises our unwavering commitment to enriching lives through equestrian experiences and promoting positive change in our community.Our dedication earned us an invitation to an exclusive presentation at Newbury Racecourse on Thursday, 7th November. This prestigious event was graced by HRH Princess Royal, the president of the BHS - Martin Clunes and the Chief Executive of the BHS - James Hick, underscoring the significance of this honour.We extend heartfelt thanks to everyone who supports Wirral Riding Centre. Your belief in our mission has helped make this achievement possible.The whole day was a wonderful celebration

Photo by kwadrat70/Adobe StockWhen you think of the term companion horse, one that is versatile with the ability to fill a variety of needs isnt what usually comes to mind. However, according to the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals, many of these horses are just that.Essentially, it is a horse that is best suited for a career, home, or adopter who wants to enjoy their equine from the ground, says Cailin Caldwell, director of the ASPCA Right Horse program.While that may be a familiar definition to some, these horses are so much more. Some horses who fall into this category can still be shown in-hand in halter and showmanship classes, compete in agility, thrive in liberty work, practice in-hand trail course obstacles, and more. Others fill a need to be good companions to their pasture or barn mates and owners alike.What Makes a Companion Horse?The reasons that horses become unsuitable for under-saddle work are plentiful.Lack of training, unexplained behaviors that compromise safety, physical limitations that makes riding painful for the horse or unsafe for the rider, age limitations, basic characteristics like size or type, and horses that have a distinct preference for ground or driven work are chief among them.True VersatilityJust because a horse cant be ridden doesnt exclude him from participating in breed organization events and activities.For example, the Pinto Horse Association of America, Inc., an ASPCA Right Horse Industry Partner, created the On the Trail: Recreational Pinto Program where owners can get rewarded for spending time with their horse, even if that time is on the ground doing such activities as driving, working in-hand, or even just spending time bonding with their horse.But if this too sounds limiting, consider that these horses can also fill a niche as unmounted therapy horses.Sometimes these horses are a great fit for that, says Caldwell.While many people dream of riding, there is a growing contingent of equestrians whose dreams dont involve riding.Maybe they originally got into horses because they wanted to ride, says Caldwell. But at the end of the day, their favorite part of being at the barn is that time spent grooming and caring for their horse, listening to him munch hay, and brushing or bathing him.A Common MisconceptionA familiar misconception about companion horses is that they may require specialized care. In reality, even if it is a physical ailment that makes a horse unable to be ridden, not all companion horses require extra medications, treatments, or shoeing.Caldwell assures potential adopters that if a particular horse does require more than the usual, the organization has an open book policy with full disclosure as to what those needs may be.If someone is looking to adopt one of these horses, the horse will come with a thorough vetting, support from the adoption organization, information about what the horse needs, and what caring for that horse is going to look like, she says.Adopting Companion Horses Fills a NeedCaldwell says that about 40 percent of the horses available through the ASPCAs Right Horse Adoption Partners can be categorized as companion horses.It varies between groups, she says. Some of our groups specialize in this population of horses, while others get them much less frequently.It can be easy to jump to the conclusion that companion horses are more difficult to adopt out. However, the biggest obstacle is finding ways to connect these horses to the people who want to enjoy horses from the ground.Caldwell cites the ASPCAs Equine Transition and Adoption Center as a good example of ways that the organization is working to match these types of horses with just the right owners.When to Adopt a Companion HorseIf companion horses have piqued your interest, adopting one may be the right decision for you. Caldwell advises that when considering adopting a companion horse, one of the biggest considerations is what your goals are for the partnership.If you have one horse on your property that needs a companion or if you love spending time in the company of horses, or maybe you want to introduce your grandkids to horses, a companion horse can be a wonderful way to do that, she says. Many companion horses are fantastic-natured, very easy to handle on the ground, and have a lot of love to give.If you want to bond and have that deep, special connection with a horse, a companion horse can be a great option, Caldwell adds.There are still other reasons to adopt a companion horse.For those who want to make a difference, give back, and be there to support horses, a companion horse can be a way to make that difference, she says.Finally, if you were once a rider who no longer feels safe astride, or your goals have simply changed, companion horses can be a great way to continue your involvement with horses.An Adoption Success StoryAdopted companion horses Shorty and Hero received specialized training at the ASPCA Equine Transition and Adoption Center (ETAC) and are two of many adoption success stories.Hero was given retraining at the ASPCA Equine Transition and Adoption Center. Photo courtesy ASPCAShorty, a previously unhandled and unsocialized horse, came into the ASPCAs care after his owner passed away. Hero was transferred to ETAC from one of the ASPCAs partner shelters for additional behavioral support.In July 2022, both horses were adopted by a residential boys ranch. At first skeptical, both horses have grown to look forward to being with the boys at the ranch. This may be in part because both have been through traumatic experiences, allowing them to more easily relate to one another and to form special bonds.Shorty started out skeptical, but has taken to his therapeutic role at a boys ranch, gaining confidence and new skills. Photo courtesy ASPCAWorking with the horses has been beneficial to both the horses and the boys as each gains confidence while also learning new skills. Shorty and Hero demonstrate daily that unmounted therapy horses are one of many viable options for adoptable companion horses.Shorty was previously unhandled and unsocialized. When his owner passed away, he was trained at ETAC and now enjoys forming bonds with boys that have also been through traumatic experiences. Photo courtesy ASPCANext Steps for Adopting a Companion HorseIf adopting a companion horse seems like a good fit for you, the ASPCA maintains a website, MyRightHorse.org, where hundreds of adoptable horsesincluding companion horsescan easily be found from equine adoption facilities around the country.This article about companion horse adoption appeared in the October 2023 issue of Horse Illustratedmagazine.Click here to subscribe!The post Adopting a Companion Horse appeared first on Horse Illustrated Magazine.

Section Key Points Adapting Horse Routines Switch from night to day turnout in winter; challenges involve ensuring horse health, safety, and comfort Why Switch from Night to Day Turnout? Winter nights are cold; horses benefit from sunlight; helps in pasture management Benefits of Day Turnout in Winter Reduces injury risks; better shelter utilization; improves health by reducing conditions like mud fever Practical Considerations Monitor weather; adjust grazing and ensure shelter/rugs for comfort Tips for a Smooth Transition Gradually adjust schedules; observe horse behavior; use pasture rotation Conclusion Careful planning ensures equine welfare; consult a veterinarian for personalized advice Adapting Horse Routines: The Switch from Night to Day Turnout for WinterAs winter approaches, horse owners find themselves challenged to adapt care routines to cater to the shifting needs of their equine companions. Changes in daylight, temperature, and pasture conditions compel a move from night to day turnout. This comprehensive guide explores the reasons, benefits, and practical considerations you should factor into this seasonal transition.The Importance of Adjusting Horse RoutinesThe transition between seasons requires diligence and care to ensure horses remain healthy, safe, and comfortable. One crucial adjustment involves switching from night turnout to day turnout as winter approaches. Here's why it matters.Why Switch from Night to Day Turnout?During the hot summer months, night turnout is often preferred to keep horses cool and away from flies. However, winter nights can pose significant risks and challenges, necessitating a switch to day turnout.Avoiding Cold NightsHorses generally find it easier to regulate their body temperature during daylight hours even in cold weather. Daytime sunlight offers warmth beneficial for older horses or those with joint issues, helping maintain their comfort level better than chilling nights [5].Pasture ManagementManaging pasture throughout the colder months is vital. Turning horses out during the day offers the ground a chance to recover from night frost and moisture. This careful management ensures healthier pastures that will thrive in future seasons [2].Benefits of Day Turnout in WinterReduced Risk of InjuriesWith reduced visibility at night, the risk of trips or falls on icy or muddy surfaces increases. Day turnout minimizes these dangers, providing optimal visibility and safety for horses.Better Shelter UtilizationOffering access to shelters ensures horses can escape harsh conditions such as heavy rain or wind. Maintaining access to shelter during the day improves their ability to seek cover when extreme weather hits [5].Improved Health and SafetyDay turnout decreases health risks such as mud fever and rain scald, common in damp, cold environments. It also reduces the likelihood of issues like pulled shoes or other paddock injuries, enhancing overall animal wellbeing [5].Practical Considerations for the SwitchImplementing winter routines isn't without its challenges. Monitoring weather and grazing effectively supports a successful transition.Monitoring Weather ConditionsKeep an eye on weather forecasts to determine the best days for turnout. During severe storms or extreme conditions, consider stabling your horses to ensure maximum safety [2].Adjusting Grazing SchedulesFor horses with specific dietary needs, adjust grazing schedules to ensure optimal health. Particularly for those managing weight or susceptible to double sugar intake, such as PPID or laminitis sufferers. Finding the right balance in grazing schedules maintains a healthy routine [1].Shelter and RugsProvide adequate shelter and appropriate warm rugs for horses to remain comfortable despite the cold. Use lightweight but effective stable rugs and turnout rugs to keep horses warm during their time outside.Tips for a Smooth TransitionA deliberate approach guarantees a smooth adjustment and maintains your horse's overall health.Gradual AdjustmentIntroduce turnout changes gradually. Altering schedules over several days allows horses to adjust slowly and reduces associated stress. This kind of thoughtful approach fosters adaptability.Observing Your HorsesRemain observant to your horse's behavior, tracking changes in weight and mood. Should complications arise, a flexible schedule diminishes undue stress [1].Pasture RotationLeveraging multiple pastures through rotation allows each to recover and reduces weather-related wear. This strategy is crucial for maintaining healthy pastures over subsequent seasons [2].ConclusionSwitching from night to day turnout in winter requires careful planning and execution to ensure equine welfare. Thorough understanding of the benefits and considerations eases this transition and optimizes a horse's seasonal adaptation.Remember that horses, like humans, vary in their needs and responses. Consult a veterinarian for personalized advice, and ensure you remain responsive to your horse's needs during any routine changes. A successful transition results in a happier and healthier horse, ready to embrace winter with vigor.For all your equine needs throughout the winter and beyond, explore the Jodhpur Collection, Stable Rugs, and Horse Riding Apparel available at Just Horse Riders.```html```

High-fiber feed can improve a horses gut microbiome health. | Getty imagesUnderstanding the equine gastrointestinal (GI) tract and how to optimally support it is important for your horses health and welfare. Currently, knowledge on digestive disorders and how diet influences the GI environment is lacking.To address this gap, Federica Raspa, DVM, PhD, of the University of Turin, in Italy, investigated variations in gut microbiota along the length of the digestive tract in healthy horses of the same age and breed, all kept under the same management conditions.Evaluating the Equine MicrobiomePromoting your horses GI health helps his well-being. The study of microbiota is an important area of research because it allows us to emphasize that diet is critical for ensuring the horses gut health, said Raspa. Moreover, studies on the gastrointestinal microbiota could enable us to gain a deeper understanding of the mechanisms underlying common gastrointestinal disorders that affect horses.Raspa and her colleagues randomly assigned 19 young horses to a high-fiber (HF) or high-starch (HS) group. They housed the horses in indoor pens for the duration of the study (129 days) and fed them the same hay, with differing complementary feeds. They fed the HS group of horses a starch-rich pellet at increasing rates until they reached 8 kilograms/day, and they offered HF horses 3.5 kg of a fiber-rich pellet daily.After horses consumed the diets for 72 days, the researchers collected postmortem samples from the duodenum, jejunum, and ileum (parts of the small intestine); the cecum; the sternal flexure, pelvic flexure, and right dorsal colon (parts of the large colon); and rectum. Then they extracted DNA and sequenced it to evaluate the microbiota present in each sample.How Diet Influences Equine Microbiota CompositionThe researchers is study found horses on a HF diet had higher diversity in the cecum, pelvic flexure, and right dorsal colon than horses on the HS diet. Previously, scientists had established that greater diversity in the intestinal microbiota is associated with greater microbiome stability and resistance against potentially pathogenic (disease-causing) bacteria increases with greater alpha diversity.Raspa and her colleagues were also able to demonstrate that changes occurring at the lower taxonomic levela more detailed, specific grouping within the broader classificationcannot be observed by analyzing fecal samples collected from the rectum, which is how veterinarians check hindgut health in live horses. From a clinical perspective, the analysis of the fecal microbiota can provide important insights into the characteristics of the diet fed to the horse, she said. However, as our study shows, caution is needed when interpreting fecal microbiota reports, as changes occurring at the lower taxonomic level may not reflect the condition of the entire digestive tract.The researchers noted the studys limitations included the smaller sample size and the fact horses did not serve as their own controls (the scientists couldnt compare fecal microbiota before and after the feeding trial). Additionally, if the study period had been longer, they could have documented significant differences in microbiota presence in more of the evaluated areas.Take-Home MessageDeepening our understanding of the equine GI tract could help improve how we manage horses diets. I would like this area of research to lead to the development of guidelines for the correct interpretation of fecal microbiota reports so that veterinary nutritionists can have an appropriate tool to understand microbial changes, said Raspa.Work with a qualified equine nutritionist and your veterinarian to closely evaluate your horses diet and ensure it contains enough fiber to prevent dysbiosis (disruption) of the gut microbiota associated with high-starch diets.The study, Microbiota characterization throughout the digestive tract of horses fed a high-fiber vs. a high-starch diet, appeared in Frontiers of Veterinary Science in May 2024.

Isabell Werth (GER) rides on Wendy de Fontaine - winner of the FEI Dressage World Cup 2024/25 - Stuttgart (GER)     Copyright © FEI/Leanjo de Koster Germany's legendary Isabell Werth added another prestigious victory to her record in Stuttgart, taking home top honours on Wendy de Fontaine. Scoring an impressive 86,745%, Werth claimed the third leg of the FEI Dressage World...

Richard Vogel (GER) rides on United Touch S - winner of the Longines FEI Jumping World Cup 2024/25 - Stuttgart (GER)   Copyright © FEI/Leanjo de Koster Richard Vogel and his charismatic stallion, United Touch S, dazzled in front of an electrified home crowd at the Stuttgart German Masters, clinching victory at the Longines FEI Jumping World Cup™ qualifier. The pair’s...

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