Wilmington, Ohio Fifteen starters met for the $30,000 Grand Prix at the Standlee Sanctuary Saturday evening of WEC Wilmington Thanksgiving in the Midwest to conclude Novembers featured competition. Canadas Michael Pegg designed the track that moved seven horse-and-athlete combinations onto the jump-off phase, but Richard Rinehart ultimately piloted The Diamant Rose Z (Toulon x Diamant Z) to the first grand prix win of[...]Read MoreThe post Richard Rinehart & The Diamant Rose Z Forge Partnership with $30,000 Grand Prix Win at Thanksgiving in the Midwest appeared first on World Equestrian Center.

Equine charity the Horse and Ponies Protection Association (HAPPA) has announced a host of fundraising activities taking place at its Burnley base in the run up to and during festive period.The money raised through these events will help HAPPA to continue to do its work and rescue, rehabilitate and re-home horses, ponies and donkeys.From Monday 25 November to Sunday 22 December, the caf at Shores Hey Farm, where the charity is located, will be serving a Christmas menu with a plethora of festive treats including mince pies, cakes and biscuits.On Friday 13 December, the caf will host a festive evening where guests will be treated to a three-course seasonal meal as well as live music.On the following weekend, Saturday 14 and Sunday 15 December, the caf will welcome Santa and his elves at breakfast time. Both kids and adults can enjoy a hearty breakfast before Santa gives out gifts to the kids and poses for photos. Access to the farm is included in the price of a ticket.This year our chefs and resident baker will be cooking up a storm, from turkey dinners to festive sweet treats there will be something for everyone to enjoy, said Andy Black, HAPPA caf manager.By booking a table with us and enjoying a lovely meal with family, friends or work colleagues you are helping HAPPA to help horses, perfect!As well as events in the caf, there will also be a range of activities taking place across the rest of the farm.Something for all the familyA Festive Fayre featuring several local artisan, craft and gift stalls will take place from 11am 4pm on Saturday 30 November. Running alongside the Festive Fayre will be HAPPAs Christmas raffle with many prizes to be won, a Christmas craft workshop and cake decorating opportunities.On Sunday 1 December, the charity will run a dog Christmas party which includes party games, dog agility and the opportunity to make paw print Christmas cards. Santa will be in attendance and will bring with him canine friendly gifts.Wreath making masterclasses with Amanda Berry will take place on Saturday 7 and Sunday 8 December. All attendees will go home with a handmade wreath to adorn their front door.The charitys popular Own A Pony Days will be hosted by the education team on Friday 27 December and Friday 3 January. These days are the perfect gift for pony mad youngsters aged between six and 16 as they give them the chance to gain valuable knowledge and insight into what it is like to care for a pony.To book tickets to any of the activities or to reserve a table in the caf visit www.happa.org.uk.More readingAdvent calendars for adults, children and horses this ChristmasMother who fundraises in memory of her showjumper daughter receives cheque from John WhitakerCharity conference ignites discussion on what a good life for a horse looks likeThe post Festive fun in store at HAPPA appeared first on Your Horse.

Section Key Points Understanding Thermatex Rugs Natural wool and acrylic blend; moisture-wicking properties to prevent chilling and maintain comfort. Determining the Right Size Use sizing guide; consider stretch of the fabric; may need to order a size smaller. Choosing the Right Type of Rug Exercise Rugs: For training/competition; General Purpose Rugs: Everyday use; Seasonal Rugs: Adjust based on climate. Features to Consider Moisture-Wicking, Breathability, Durability. Additional Accessories and Considerations Neck Covers and Liners for additional warmth; Leg Straps and Surcingles for snug fit; Follow care instructions for maintenance. The Ultimate Guide to Choosing the Right Thermatex Rug for Your HorseFor horse owners, ensuring that your horse is comfortable and healthy is a top priority. One way to achieve this is by choosing the right rug for your equine friend. Among the various options available, Thermatex rugs stand out for their superior performance and ability to keep your horse warm and dry.Understanding Thermatex RugsThermatex rugs are crafted from a natural wool and acrylic blend. This blend is designed to wick moisture away, keeping your horse's coat dry and its body at the optimum temperature. The moisture-wicking properties prevent chilling and are essential for your horses comfort year-round. These rugs are essential for any horse owner looking to balance functionality with comfort.Determining the Right SizeEnsuring a proper fit is crucial with any horse rug. Here are some guidelines to keep in mind:Refer to the Sizing GuideThermatex provides a comprehensive sizing guide categorized in inches and feet. Measure your horse accurately before making a purchase to avoid any fitting issues. If uncertain, consulting the guide will eliminate guesswork.Consider the StretchOwing to its stretchable fabric, Thermatex rugs may fit larger than expected. Users often suggest ordering a size smaller to accommodate this flexibility. Remember, a rug that fits well prevents discomfort and chafing.Choosing the Right Type of RugYour horses activity level and the climate largely dictate the type of Thermatex rug you should choose.Exercise RugsDesigned specifically for horses in training or competition, exercise rugs ensure muscle warmth, thereby minimizing injury risk. They are integral gear for competitive horses.General Purpose RugsThese versatile rugs are suited for everyday use, providing consistent warmth and comfort. They are ideal for a wide range of weather conditions, thus being adaptive to your horse's needs.Seasonal RugsBased on climate requirements, opt for lighter rugs in spring/summer and heavier versions in winter, keeping your horse optimally comfortable throughout the year.Features to ConsiderSelecting the right features in a Thermatex rug can greatly enhance your horse's comfort. Heres what to consider:Moisture-WickingAs a hallmark of Thermatex, moisture-wicking is essential to maintain your horses body temperature effectively. It minimizes wetness and consequently, lowers chill risk.BreathabilityA breathable rug facilitates air movement, helping regulate body heat, crucial for horses prone to overheating.DurabilityInvest in high-quality materials with proven durability to endure daily use and washing without losing efficacy.Additional Accessories and ConsiderationsSometimes additional accessories can greatly enhance the effectiveness of a Thermatex rug:Neck Covers and LinersFor enhanced protection, especially in colder climates, consider adding neck covers or liners which offer more warmth.Leg Straps and SurcinglesEnsure a snug fit with adjustable leg straps and surcingles, preventing the rug from moving out of place.Care and MaintenanceFollowing care instructions meticulously will extend your rugs lifespan. Clean your rug regularly following the manufacturer's guidelines, ensuring it retains its protective qualities. If washing Tippex is your new favorite sport, you might be in for a disappointmentthese rugs need a gentler touch!ConclusionPicking the ideal Thermatex rug involves evaluating your horse's unique needs, observing all relevant factors such as size, rug type, and key features. By prioritizing your horses comfort through wise choices, you ensure not just their wellness, but their happiness too.For a broader collection of equestrian gear, explore the Everyday Horse Vitamins & Supplements and various other curated selections on the Just Horse Riders website.

Factors Contributing to Rising Costs Tips for Managing Costs Alternatives to Traditional Insurance Financial Implications Climate Change and Extreme Weather Shop Around and Compare Policies State-Run Insurers of Last Resort Impact on Household Budgets Inflation and Construction Costs Adjust Your Coverage and Deductibles Community-Based Initiatives Affordability for Home Buyers Reinsurance Rates and Market Dynamics Take Advantage of Discounts Improve Your Homes Resilience Navigating Rising Home and Land Insurance Costs: Tips and AlternativesIn recent years, homeowners across the United States have been facing a daunting reality: skyrocketing home and land insurance costs. This trend is driven by a combination of factors, including climate change, rising construction costs, and inflation. Heres a comprehensive guide to help you understand these increases and provide practical tips and alternatives to manage these escalating costs.Understanding the Reasons Behind Rising Insurance CostsClimate Change and Extreme WeatherOne of the primary drivers of rising home insurance premiums is the increasing frequency and severity of extreme weather events. Climate change has led to more frequent hurricanes, wildfires, and other natural disasters, resulting in higher payouts for insurance companies. For instance, between 2014 and 2023, hurricanes alone caused over $692 billion in property damage in the U.S.Inflation and Construction CostsInflation plays a significant role in the increasing cost of home insurance. As the cost of living rises, so do the costs of goods and services, including building materials and labor. For example, the cost of construction materials and labor has increased significantly, which in turn raises the cost to repair or rebuild a home after a claim. This has led insurance companies to adjust their premiums to keep up with these rising costs.Reinsurance Rates and Market DynamicsReinsurance rates, which insurance companies pay to protect themselves against catastrophic losses, have also surged. Between 2018 and 2023, U.S. property and casualty reinsurance costs doubled, contributing to what researchers call a "reinsurance shock." This increase is particularly pronounced in high-risk areas such as Florida and California, where specialty insurers rely heavily on reinsurance.Tips for Managing Rising Insurance CostsShop Around and Compare PoliciesOne of the most effective ways to manage rising insurance costs is to shop around and compare different policies. With fewer carriers willing to write policies in high-risk states, its crucial to explore all available options. For instance, in Florida and California, where several major insurers have pulled back, homeowners may need to consider specialty insurers or state-run "insurers of last resort."Adjust Your Coverage and DeductiblesAdjusting your coverage and deductibles can help lower your premiums. However, its important to balance cost savings with adequate coverage. Increasing deductibles for risks such as hail and fire damage can reduce premiums, but it also means youll pay more out-of-pocket in the event of a claim.Take Advantage of DiscountsMany insurance companies offer discounts for various reasons, such as having a security system, being a non-smoker, or bundling multiple policies. Working with an independent insurance agent can help you identify potential discounts and savings opportunities that you might otherwise miss.Improve Your Homes ResilienceInvesting in home improvements that enhance resilience against natural disasters can lower your premiums. For example, installing storm shutters, reinforcing your roof, or using fire-resistant materials can make your home less risky to insure. Some insurers offer discounts for homes with these features.Alternatives to Traditional InsuranceState-Run Insurers of Last ResortIn states where private insurers are pulling back, state-run "insurers of last resort" can provide coverage for those who cannot get it from private companies. However, these programs often come with higher premiums and may not offer the same level of coverage as private policies.Community-Based InitiativesCommunity-based initiatives and non-profit organizations are increasingly playing a role in addressing the affordability of home insurance. For example, HUD has convened summits to address rising property insurance costs and lack of available coverage, bringing together industry executives, government leaders, and non-profits to find solutions.Financial Implications and PlanningImpact on Household BudgetsRising home insurance rates can significantly strain household budgets. Homeowners may need to adjust their coverage or shop around for more affordable options to manage these costs. Its also important to factor in these increased costs when planning for other essential expenses.Affordability for Home BuyersFor those in the process of buying a home, higher insurance rates can affect overall affordability. Lenders often require proof of insurance as part of the mortgage approval process, and higher premiums can increase monthly mortgage payments, potentially making it harder to qualify for a loan or afford a desired property.ConclusionNavigating the complex landscape of rising home and land insurance costs requires a multifaceted approach. By understanding the underlying factors driving these increases, such as climate change, inflation, and reinsurance rates, homeowners can make informed decisions to manage their costs.Here are some key takeaways: Shop Around: Compare policies from different insurers to find the best rates. Adjust Coverage: Balance cost savings with adequate coverage by adjusting deductibles and policy limits. Seek Discounts: Work with an independent agent to identify potential discounts. Improve Home Resilience: Invest in home improvements that reduce risk. Consider Alternatives: Look into state-run insurers of last resort or community-based initiatives.By staying informed and proactive, homeowners can better navigate the challenges posed by rising insurance costs and ensure they protect their investments while maintaining financial stability.

Very, very long time readers will remember that once upon a time, I had chickens. They were mentioned a lot, I even wrote down the history of their colony, admittedly, I did exaggerate slightly.Reading over that again, I really have no idea why I wrote that, but whats done is done. Chickens are pretty funny though. Its easy to watch their little chicken drama and invent tales about why they do the things they do.A while after that story all of my chickens were killed. I had built what I thought was the Fort Knox of chicken coops, with a big run around it, but a fox dug under the fencing and killed all my chickens Every single one.I was done with chickens at that point. I had loved all my little chickens, and it was devastating to lose all of them.About a month ago, I went to my friends house. She is also an equestrian, and she has chickens. It was fun seeing them again, and as a bonus, my kids seemed really into them, too. They kept asking to go to her house and see the chickens. Everyday, the kids asked to go see the chickens. So when she told me she was giving away her beautiful silkie rooster, I was tempted to take it. Then she said shed throw in a hen as part of the deal, so I took it. Two free chickens? Thats a deal too good to pass up.Weve had them a few weeks now, and they have been a smashing success. They live in the big 50 chicken coop by themselves, but the space is good, because I keep them in there a lot. I love free range chicken but I dont want to lose anymore chickens.The kids love them. Which is why Im writing this warning to other parents, before you get chickens for your kids. Know this, before you venture into the world of chickens.You Will Spend All Your Time OutsideThe chickens are outside, therefore, the kids want to be outside. Settle in parents pack a bag lunch and set up camp outside, because thats where youre going to be spending your whole day.The kids ask me to play with the chickens starting from the moment they wake up. But since I am very protective of these chickens, they are not let out of the coop unless a parent is present. Which means if I let them out early in the day, Ill have to be out there with them all day. Yes, this has happened. The kids are in heaven. I am too for a bit. But after about the 2nd hour, Im wondering if I can bring my office outside to get some work done.It should also be pointed out that kids seem to be immune to weather. I guess we are born completely weatherproof and it wears off as we grow up, because I am not immune to the weather. I feel the cold and the wind very distinctly. But those kids they love the rain, and seem completely indifferent to cold. Im completely bundled up, and they are shedding all their layers down to their t-shirt. Have scientists done a study on this? Why do we lose this ability when we grow up?They Gain Confidence and Morph into Something NewTechnically, we already lived on a farm. We have the horses, and a few acres. But I hesitate to call us a farm, its more like a extended suburban lot. A ruburb, if you will.Pre-chickens, my kids were very much suburb style kids. We went outside mainly to play on the swings, or wed go to the big community playground. They didnt like getting dirty. They rarely came out to help with the horses.When the chickens first arrived, the kids were timid. I was the one catching the chickens and handing them to the kids to hold. The kids were a little afraid of reaching out. They would scream and run if the chickens moved towards them.A few weeks in, and now I have farm kids, who lunge into the dirt to catch chickens. They are covered with dirt and scratches from fetching chickens out of the bushes. They are crawling on their bellies under the coop. They dont need me anymore, they are very capable of catching chickens all on their own. My three year old caught both chickens at the same time.I give the chickens a break by taking the kids down feed the horses. We do it everyday, since I assume the chickens need a break from the kids. They can now feed them grain and hay, and refill the water troughs. They can also also climb the round bales, and rake up piles of hay to jump in. They make mud soup in my spare water trough, and drop horse equipment into its murky depths.They are evolving. Their capability is frightening. The children are too advanced. Who knows what they will be able to do in another week.Your Children May Love the Chickens MoreI love chickens. They are way more intelligent than people give them credit for. They are also so funny to watch, and their chicken drama is inspirational as in, I can make up stories about why things happened the way they did. Again, see the story of Rupert.Well, the kids love them too. In fact, they might love them more than me. They are asking to go see them, and its because they want to just hold them and love them. Look at my sons face and try to tell me he doesnt love that rooster more than love itself.His love for the rooster was so incredibly cute that Ive been taking a photo of him almost every day with the rooster. Im not sure if the rooster loves him back, it kind of looks like hes just given up and accepted that this is his life.My daughter loves the hen. Shes tiny, and cute, and fluffy, and the chicken every little girl would dream about (if that was a common dream of little girls.) She loves to just sit and holds her.These are super active, rambunctious kids. But when they hold the chickens, they just go into a trance, happily holding and cuddling them. Its ridiculously sweet.The kids might love the chickens more than me, but I get it. Im not tiny and fluffy and cute, so naturally the children want that. These chickens in particular are especially fluffy, so basically living stuffed animals. It makes sense.This may have been tongue in cheek, but seriously, get your kids the chickens. Chickens are so cute, parents and kids alike love them. Do it!Chicken Breeds for ChildrenFor the non-chicken people, you might be wondering why our chickens look the way they do. They dont look like the stereotypical white chicken. You are right, they are not. They are called Silkies, and Im going to give you the brief rundown on them.Silkies are a breed that originated in China, and they are known for their fluffy feathers and small size. They are a bantam breed, which means they are basically miniature chickens, anywhere from half to a fourth of the size of standard chickens. They also dont lay well, and the eggs they do lay are small. They arent good meat birds, as they barely have any, and what they have is black, which is only a visual, but it can be offputting when youre used to normal color chicken. They are basically considered ornamental chickens, good for being pet and admired.They are usually known to be sweet, kind and friendly, which is why they are perfect for children. It could be argued that the personality of the chicken depends more on the individual chicken than the whole breed, but as a whole, they are generally pretty nice. It is also possible for an entire breed to be super friendly, as I had a few bantam cochins, and they were the happiest, friendliest balls of fluff Ive ever had. Hopefully Ill get some more of those.Any chicken can be a wonderful pet, but if youre looking for a specific breed, I highly recommend either a silkie or a cochin.Happy chickening out! (do you get it, its like a play on words.)The post Warning: Read this Before you Buy Chickens for Your Kids appeared first on An Equestrian Life.

Although it is not dangerous for horses to consume cold water during winter, they might prefer warm water. | iStockQ:Should I give my horses warm drinking water in the cold weather? What are the pros and cons of warm drinking water versus cold during the winter?A: Drinking water is one of the most important aspects of horse care in any season, but during the winter, providing fresh water can be particularly challenging due to freezing temperatures. Horses do not seem to mind drinking cold water: however, research shows that overall consumption decreases as water temperature drops. Researchers have also noted that if given the choice of cold and warm water, horses will preferentially drink the cold water. This becomes a problem if, through their choice, they are drinking less than they would have if only warm water been available. The ideal temperature for drinking water is 45-65 degrees Fahrenheit, but it can be made warmer if consumption remains low.Decreased water consumption increases the risk of impaction colic, which is a major health concern and a leading cause of death. Therefore, take steps to maximize water consumption throughout the year. If you live in a cold climate where water freezes, having the ability to offer warm water is a good idea. This could be in the form of heated water buckets, insulated regular buckets, or adding boiling water to cold water to raise the temperature even for a short period.RELATED CONTENT | Heated Water Trough Safety If it is not possible to offer warmed water around the clock, consider making it available for a period of the day, such as overnight if horses are brought into stalls. Remember that if cold water is also available, your horse might choose to drink that rather than take advantage of your efforts to provide warmer water.Researchers at the University of Pennsylvania have shown that heating water continuously versus providing ambient near-freezing water increases horses water consumption by 41%. They noted similar results (38% increase in consumption) when warmed water was provided twice a day versus continuously. Video footage showed the studied horses consumed most of the water within three hours of feeding. Consuming forage typically creates a drive to drink. Therefore, this might be the most opportune window in which to provide warmed water. Other important thirst stimulants that can help encourage water consumption include adding salt to feed rather than relying solely on salt blocks.As to whether drinking cold water is dangerous, this is a myth that should be cast out. Allowing horses to drink cold water will not have negative health implications. Another winter water myth is that horses will gain the water they need by eating snow. This is very unlikely, as the water content of snow can be quite low, and it is just not feasible for it to meet horses need to consume 30 to 50 plus liters a day.Do you have an equine nutrition question? The Horses editors want to hear from you! Send your questions to editorial@thehorse.com.

Wilmington, Ohio This weeks Wilmington Sunday Spotlight shines on Samantha Wertz of Zionsville, Indiana. Riding out of Rinehart Farm, the junior rider has worked her way up the ranks in the jumper ring with her mount, Dario S. We caught up with Sam after her fourth place finish in the $10,000 Futures Prix to learn more about her riding journey, Dario S and her[...]Read MoreThe post Wilmington Sunday Spotlight: Samantha Wertz appeared first on World Equestrian Center.

Equine charity World Horse Welfare revealed ambitious environmental commitments as part of its new sustainability strategy at its annual conference earlier this month.The charitys new strategy, which has been created with the pro bono help of sustainability consultancy White Griffin, sets out its commitment to making a positive impact on the natural world through its welfare work.The strategy features eight overarching goals as well as a roadmap of commitments to be implemented in both the UK and abroad.Our environmental welfare strategy acknowledges the interconnectedness of the wellbeing of people, horses and the environment, said World Horse Welfare chief executive Roly Owers.This strategy focuses upon the ways in which we will ensure environmental sustainability is embedded in our own operations, as well as our research, education and influencing work.Beginning of our journeyWe are at the beginning of our journey into these complex connections, and we do not have all the answers.But we are committed to learning and crucially, acting to move forward towards a world that is kinder for people, the environment and of course horses.Domestically, the charity aims to launch research-based land management projects at its farms to ensure all the horses living there are looked after more sustainably and in ways that could further benefit their welfare.World Horse Welfare is also hoping to partner with wildlife charities in order to promote nature and conservation at its visitor centres.The charity has created educational resources which include webinars, information documents, case studies and tips for horse owners to download from their website.Internationally, the charity will continue to support communities to create and implement sustainable practices that promote help the environmental rather than being detrimental to it.The World Horse Welfare annual conference, which was attended by over 750 people, took place at the Royal Geographic Society on Thursday 7 November.The conference was sponsored by the Sir Peter OSullevan Charitable Trust.To find out more about the new strategy or to download the resources click here. Further readingCharity conference ignites discussion on what a good life for a horse looks likeWorld Horse Welfare celebrates its grooms with special dayRescue pony enjoys showing success in new homeThe post World Horse Welfare launches sustainability strategy appeared first on Your Horse.