Understanding and overcoming 7 common equine foot issuesNutrition, management, and farriery can all help protect the horses hooves from potential issues. | Adobe StockSometimes a severe, career-altering injury or pathology, such as a deep digital flexor tendon (DDFT) tear or coffin joint arthritis, causes your horses foot lameness. In other instances, usually less serious, the outer hoof structures themselves create the gimpy gait. Learning to recognize, treat, and prevent these (mostly) avoidable conditions not only spares your horse unnecessary discomfort but also helps you avoid lost riding time and incurring veterinary expenses. After all, youd be the one footing the bill for your horses hoof problems.To get some answers about seven common hoof capsule conditions, weve recruited two experts from the Virginia-Maryland College of Veterinary Medicine, in Blacksburg, Virginia: Lauren Trager, DVM, MS, Dipl. ACVSMR, clinical assistant professor of equine sports medicine and rehabilitation, and Travis Burns, MSc, CJF, TE, EE, FWCF, associate professor of practice and the chief of farrier services at the veterinary school.Promoting Healthy HoovesAs an owner, you must work with the cards you are dealtthe feet that came with your horse. But unlike a conformation fault thats set in stone, theres a lot you can do with nutrition, management, and farriery to protect less-than-perfect hooves from the myriad issues well discuss in this article. With all 1,200-plus pounds of your horse resting on the size equivalent of four upside-down saucers, its only natural youd want to take the absolute best care of his hooves.Starting with the basics, a balanced diet with adequate protein plays a crucial role in hoof growth and quality because the hoof wall consists mainly of a protein called keratin. Feeding enough biotin (vitamin B7)the single most important vitamin for hoof healthalso remains a top priority. Be patient with dietary adjustments and stick to the plan you have devised with your equine nutritionist or veterinarian, keeping in mind it can take up to a year for a horse to grow a whole new hoof.Proper hygiene pays dividends in keeping hooves healthy and intact. Bed your horses stall well (a minimum of 4 inches in depth) and clean it at least daily, limit mud exposure, and pick his feet regularlyespecially if he wears shoes, which can trap moisture and debris. Last, but certainly not least, regular hoof care by a skilled farrier can help prevent unbalanced, overgrown, or cracked hooves that open the dooror rather, the wallto abscesses and other issues.The Recipe for Hoof ProblemsProlonged exposure to moisture weakens the hoof horn. | iStockDespite the hoofs tough, impermeable appearance, it functions as a living, breathing organ that responds and adapts to its environment. Unfavorable genetics, nutritional deficiencies, unsanitary living conditions, and lack of quality hoof care all contribute as risk factors for poor hoof health.Specifically, prolonged exposure to watersuch as standing in deep mud all dayor, on the contrary, excessive drynessboth weaken the horses hoof horn1. Research2 shows that contact with manure and urine-soaked bedding also weakens the hoof wall and introduces bacteria and fungi into the frog and white line, compromising the health and integrity of the hoof capsule, Burns says.Weve categorized hoof capsule ailments into seven distinct conditions: subsolar abscess, hoof bruise, hoof crack, white line disease, thrush, canker, and supporting-limb laminitis.1. Subsolar AbscessIf youve ever found your horse suddenly three-legged lame, with a hot hoof and a bounding digital pulse, youve probably feared the worsta fractureand held your breath until a pocket of pus finally blew out the bottom of his foot. Subsolarmeaning under the soleabscesses in horses are essentially just large pimples. But because these pockets of pus and debris remain tightly compressed inside the hoof capsule, unable to swell and expand outward like they would on the skin, they cause extreme pain. (Imagine having a pimple stuck under your nail. Ouch!) Putting weight on the abscessed tissue aggravates the pain and often causes a degree of lameness that frightens the horses caretakers.Despite the crippling pain they can cause, abscesses are generally only serious if they are not treated but instead allowed to undermine the hoof capsule for a prolonged period of time, Burns says. This creates the potential for the infection to spread to other parts of the foot.Subsolar (under the sole) abscesses can cause extreme pain until they are opened. | The Horse StaffIn an ideal world, the farrier or vet locates and opens the abscess at the margin of the sole through the white line.This allows for faster healing than an abscess that blows or erupts at the coronary band (where the hairline meets the hoof capsule), leaving a horizontal hoof crack that can take several months to grow out, says Burns.Soaking the hoof to soften it and packing it with drawing agents encourages a suspected abscess to emerge. Across various barns youll encounter different concoctions, often featuring Epsom salts and the drawing salve ichthammol. Some people also add the antiseptic povidone-iodine (Betadine) to kill bacteria. A hoof abscess is an infection, says Burns. The pus, an agglomeration of dirt, debris, and microbes, invades the foot.But the traditional soak, pack, then wait method isnt always the most effective or practical, experts say. Most of the drawing agents do not work well on the hoof, Burns says, reflecting on his experience. In my opinion, if a horse owner has a suspected abscess, they should call their vet or farrier right away. Using hoof testers and a hoof knife, either professional should be able to identify, localize, and open an abscess quickly to provide relief to the horse. Once the pus can drain, the pressure is released, and the horse should become at least somewhat more comfortable within 24 hours.Trager agrees. In my opinion, soaking the foot doesnt actually help an abscess mature, she says, arguing that moisture can be undesirable. Now, if the horse has an abscess thats already opened and draining, then soaking can help that process. Otherwise, I dont find it particularly useful.2. Hoof BruiseHorses with naturally thin soles are prone to hoof bruising if they step on hard, rocky ground. Thin solesand the solar bruising that can come with themchallenge many Thoroughbred owners, though the condition affects all horses, whether shod or barefoot. Depending on the amount of hemorrhage, blood might pool under the sole, causing red or purple discoloration. If your horse sustains a hoof bruise, expect him to show signs of lameness and sensitivity to pressure on his sole, frog, and/or heels.Horses with thin soles are prone to hoof bruising if they step on hard, rocky ground. | Adobe stockHoof pads or boots might be necessary to relieve the horses foot tenderness and guard the sole from further damage. With solar bruises, my first plan of action is typically to protect the sole by incorporating a leather or plastic pad (when shoeing), Burns explains. I also use soft silicone or foam hoof packing underneath to pad the bruised areas.If thats not enough, the farrier then turns to a metal plate for a more rigid protective cover. Solar bruises typically take weeks or months to heal, depending on their severity, the promptness and effectiveness of treatment, and the horses general hoof health.3. Hoof CrackHooves split and crack when they are too dry3, weak, or brittle. Cracks can also occur from uneven pressure distribution across the weight-bearing surface because of an unbalanced trim or sheared (uneven) heels4, for example. Hoof cracks can be quite painful and cause lameness. The most concerning cracks are vertical, complete (top to bottom), and full thicknessthrough all three layers of the hoof wall, says Burns.Farriers can repair hoof cracks with strategic trimming, shoeing, and literal patching. In the long run you can help keep your horses hooves in one piece by applying a hoof hardener (for weak, brittle horn) or a hoof moisturizer (for dry, cracking horn). Your veterinarian or farrier can help you select the best option for your case, taking the entire horse, his environment, and history into account.4. White Line DiseaseWhite line disease involves the separation of the hoof wall from the underlying laminae. | Alexandra BeckstettAlso called seedy toe, white line disease in horses involves the separation of the hoof wall from the underlying laminae. Abnormal or uneven stress on the hoof wall, either from poor hoof conformation or, again, an unbalanced trim5, typically plays a role. Opportunistic bacteria and fungi can infiltrate the fissures of the wall, leading to an infection that eats away at the hoof.Treating severe, advanced white line disease often means taking aggressive measures. Veterinarians might pursue debridement surgery, followed by packing topical antimicrobial medication and iodine or copper sulfate-soaked gauze pads into the surgical opening. In some cases the horse needs corrective shoeing to support and protect the hoof during the healing process.5. ThrushHorse owners commonly encounter thrush. In fact, youve probably seenand smelledthrush before you even knew what it was. Researchers have shown a mixed bag of bacteria causes the putrid black discharge coming from your horses frog and sole6.Risk factors for the development of thrush include wet, unsanitary conditions, lack of movement, infrequent hoof cleaning, but also less-than-ideal hoof conformation such as contracted heels or an atrophied frog, says Burns. Additionally, horses that wear pads without antimicrobial hoof packing are more at risk for thrush due to the moist environment.Treatment for thrush has evolved in recent years because scientists have determined the active ingredients in many topical productsnamely formaldehyde and gentian violetcan be carcinogenic to the humans who handle them. Alternative treatments now include copper naphthenate, cephapirin benzathine, chlorhexidine, and iodine.6. CankerAs for canker, Trager explains its an infection characterized by a chronic, hypertrophic, moist dermatitis reaction that affects horn-producing tissues. While thrush and canker are two different diseases, both can affect the frog and arise under the same moist, unsanitary conditions, she says. Long-standing thrush has even been implicated as a cause of canker due to the damage and degeneration it causes to horn cells. Considering this, a horse with thrush could be more susceptible to canker, the veterinarian concludes, pointing to the need for further research on the apparent correlation between the two.7. Supporting-Limb LaminitisLaminitis occurs when the laminae, responsible for suspending the coffin bone within the hoof capsule, suffer damage and inflammation. In severe cases they detach, allowing the coffin bone to rotate downward or sink.It often stems from systemic issues such as a carbohydrate overload or a fever associated with a body-wide infection. Supporting-limb laminitis, a less common form of the condition, primarily affects the hoof capsule.Support-limb laminitis occurs when a horse overloads one foot to offload another painful one, explains Trager. Take, for example, a horse that has sustained a fracture to his right-hind cannon bone. The left hind leg will carry extra weight to support and offload the painful right hind. This can sometimes go on 24/7 for weeks or even months on end. The renowned Thoroughbred racehorse Barbaro faced this exact misfortune when he succumbed to supporting-limb laminitis in 2007 after successful surgical repair of his fractures.Support-limb laminitis happens because of laminar injury from hypoxia (low oxygen levels) in response to vascular derangement within the limb, Trager says, blaming lack of movement of the horses supporting limb for the vascular stasis (blood pooling) within the limb.Trager describes the disease process. Due to the decreased blood flow, small blood clots form in the vessels, eventually leading to laminar hypoxia, she says. This oxygen deprivation can cause the lamellar apparatus to fail, and the coffin bone to rotate. She notes that while the horse might not be systemically ill with supporting-limb laminitis, the vascular derangement that occurs can affect much more than just the hoof capsule.Take-Home MessageIn many cases you can spare your equine companion from painful, debilitating hoof capsule problems with balanced nutrition, clean living conditions, regular hoof picking, and skilled trimming or shoeing. Dutifully applying these simple concepts to your horses care and management lays the groundwork for strong, healthy, and resilient hooves.References1. Bertram JEA, Gosline JM. Functional design of horse hoof keratin: the modulation of mechanical properties through hydration effects. J Exp Biol. 1987;130(1):121136.2. Munzinger K, Monhart B, Geyer H. The Influence of Environmental Factors on the Hoof of Horses. Anatomia Histologia Embryologia. 2005;34(1):36.3. Ptz AC. (2006). Monitoring of seasonal influences, the effect of housing conditions and domestication on the horn quality of the equine hoof. Freie Universitt Berlin. tinyurl.com/ymdszvak4. Beasley B. Hoof Cracks in Horses. Merck Veterinary Manual. 2024. tinyurl.com/2uxswhud5. Beasley B. White Line Disease in Horses. Merck Veterinary Manual. 2024. tinyurl.com/3v884tnj6. Pelletier M, Draper J. Characterization and identification of bacterial flora from infected equine hooves. International Journal of Veterinary Science and Research. 2022;8(2):5056.This article is from the Winter 2024 issue ofThe Horse: Your Guide to Equine Health Care. We at The Horse work to provide you with the latest and most reliable news and information on equine health, care, management, and welfare through our magazine and TheHorse.com. Your subscription helps The Horse continue to offer this vital resource to horse owners of all breeds, disciplines, and experience levels. To access current issues included in your subscription, please sign in to theAppleorGoogleapps ORclick herefor the desktop version.

Advertisement featureIf youre in the market for a new riding hat, Charles Owen has recently introduced new Kylo colorways as part of its innovative EQX range of helmets, which are set to make a significant impact in the equestrian world.This new collection combines both style and function and boasts multiple impressive features. These include the precision dial-fit system, which ensures an accurate, customised fit for every rider.Certified to three international safety standards, the EQX helmets also offer the option of MIPS (Multi-directional Impact Protection System) technology for enhanced safety, making it one of the most reliable choices for equestrians today.Performance and protectionWith over 110 years of experience, Charles Owen continues to lead the equestrian helmet industry, providing high-quality headgear that prioritises rider safety and comfort.The EQX range is the latest in this legacy, designed for the modern rider who values both performance and protection.One standout feature is the flexible peak, which is available in both standard and wide finishes, catering to different rider preferences.Additionally, the helmet includes a removable, washable headband and extensive ventilation for maximum cooling during long rides, ensuring riders remain comfortable even in warmer conditions.The EQX helmets come with fully adjustable, leather-look harnesses that are equipped with quick-release buckles for ease of use, allowing riders to quickly put on or take off their helmets as soon as they need to.The wicking fabric headband on the inside helps keep riders dry by drawing moisture away from the skin, further enhancing comfort.Stylish colour optionsAvailable in classic navy and black colourways with either a matte or gloss finish, the EQX helmets also come with crystal and sparkly design options, appealing to those horse riders with a taste for luxury and style.Thanks to its lightweight design, precise fit, and stylish look, the EQX range by Charles Owen is an excellent choice for horse riders who seek both safety and fashion when in the saddle.In a nutshellThe Charles Owen EQX range offers:Pioneering dial-fit systemCertified to three international safety standardsOption of MIPS technologyFlexible peakRemovable, washable headbandExtensive ventilation for the riders headLeather-look harnessMultiple colours to choose fromFind out more about Charles Owens EQX range hereThe post Charles Owen introduces innovative EQX riding helmets with enhanced safety features *Promotion* appeared first on Your Horse.

On November 27, one horse at a boarding facility in Sarasota County, Florida, tested positive for strangles after developing a fever.This is Floridas 38thconfirmed case of strangles in 2024.EDCC Health Watch is an Equine Network marketing program that utilizes information from the Equine Disease Communication Center (EDCC) to create and disseminate verified equine disease reports. TheEDCCis an independent nonprofit organization that is supported by industry donations in order to provide open access to infectious disease information.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.

Ocala, FL World Equestrian Center Ocala (WEC) is excited to welcome AdventHealth Ocala as the presenting sponsor of the month-long Winter Wonderland holiday festival of lights. AdventHealth Ocala is a leader in providing individualized, whole-person care for body, mind and spirit through compassionate and comprehensive healthcare services for children and adults. AdventHealthOcala is thrilled to partner with World Equestrian Center Ocala as the[...]Read MoreThe post AdventHealth Ocala Joins as Sponsor of Winter Wonderland at World Equestrian Center Ocala appeared first on World Equestrian Center.

Brookes latest Annual Report has revealed it supported more than 32 million working horses and donkeys through its advocacy work in 2023-24.Over the past year, the charity directly supported more than 1.5 million working horses and donkeys through veterinary and farriery treatment provided by Brooke trained practitioners and skills training for individual owners.Brookes work with governments and policymakers to ban the donkey skin trade in Africa in February 2024 has contributed to its highest ever indirect reach 32.6 million donkeys will be protected once the ban is fully implemented.In the same 12-month period, the charity also worked with three million people and more than 11,000 communities.As Brooke marks its 90th anniversary of positive action for working horses, donkeys and mules, I am tremendously proud of what we achieve together as an organisation, said Chris Wainwright, ceo of Brooke.Exceeding targetsWe have exceeded our target in all aspects of our work, including the number of working animals weve reached, which is no mean feat.This is just another step on the path to ensuring every working horse, donkey and mule around the world has a life worth living, continued Chris.Earlier this year, Brooke combined with the World Veterinary Association to launch the first global list of essential veterinary medicines for food producing animals, including horses and donkeys.The list, which has been successfully endorsed in Ethiopia, will help improve veterinary care for working animals and there are plans to expand its presence in 2025.Also in East Africa, Brooke helped relieve suffering for over 46,000 animals who were affected by the regions worst drought in 40 years. The charity helped communities prepare for and build resilience to climate-related emergencies such as their water shortage. For more information and to read Brookes full report and accounts click here. Related contentBrooke awarded largest slice of Spillers donation thanks to public voteBrooke influences landmark animal welfare bill in PakistanFamily poem about horse requisitioned for war features in Brooke remembrance campaignThe post Brooke reveals it helped 32 million working horses and donkeys in 2023-24 appeared first on Your Horse.

Key Points Details Importance of Accurate Measurement An ill-fitting rug can lead to chafing, discomfort, and safety risks. Properly measuring your horse is crucial. Measurement Steps Start at the center of the horse's chest. Measure in a straight line from chest to the furthest rear point of the rump. Record and compare measurements to size charts. Common Mistakes Avoid measuring around the rump or including the tail. Consider the horse's build, not just height. Adjust for season and activity. Fitting the Rug Lay the rug to cover withers without shoulder pressure. Ensure tail flap sits correctly. Adjusting Straps Leg straps: Leave a hand's breadth between strap and thigh. Chest strap: Allow four fingers' width. Additional Considerations Surcingles: Tight enough to prevent slipping, allow movement. Neck covers: Fit snugly without straining the neck. Conclusion Measure accurately from chest to rump. Avoid the rump and tail. Consider build, activity, and seasonal changes. Fit and adjust correctly. The Art and Science of Measuring Horse Rugs: Tips, Tricks, and Common MistakesWhether you're an experienced equestrian or a beginner, ensuring the comfort and protection of your horse is paramount. Selecting the right-sized rug is a crucial part of this, but measuring your horse correctly is more of an art and science than a guessing game. In this guide, we'll explore how to measure your horse accurately, look at common mistakes, and offer tips for fitting rugs correctly.Why Accurate Measurements Are CrucialAn ill-fitting rug can lead to various problems, from compromising your horse's comfort to risking their safety. A rug that's too small can lead to chafing, while one that's too large can shift and potentially cause injuries.Importance of Proper Rug MeasurementEnsuring a proper fit requires understanding the anatomy of your horse and recognizing that not all horses measure the same, even if they are of similar sizes. Using accurate measurements will help you avoid discomfort and potential skin issues.Step-by-Step Measurement GuideStep 1: Choose the Right Starting PointBegin by placing the tape measure at the centre of your horse's chest. This measurement will set the foundation for the fitting process.Step 2: Measure Along the BodyMeasure in a straight line from the chest, around the shoulder, along the side, and stop at the furthest rear point of the rump. Be careful not to include the tail in your measurement.Step 3: Record and Compare MeasurementsRecord the measurement and compare it to the size charts from rug manufacturers. These usually provide sizes in feet and inches, incrementally adjusted for precision.Common Mistakes to AvoidMeasuring Around the RumpAvoid the mistake of measuring around the rump or including the tail, as this leads to an oversized rug that could create dangerous pressure on sensitive areas.Not Considering the Horses BuildConsider your horse's build. A broad horse might need a larger rug even if the height suggests otherwise.Not Adjusting for Season and ActivityRug choices should be season-sensitive. For instance, a horse that's clipped in winter requires a heavier rug than necessary for warmer months.Fitting the Rug CorrectlyCorrect fitting is just as significant as the right size. Learn how to adjust straps and secure areas to ensure your horse's comfort.Positioning the RugLay the rug on your horse and pull it forward to be covering the withers without mounting pressure on the shoulders. Ensure the tail flap sits correctly to avoid the dock being pressed.Adjusting Leg StrapsSecure the leg straps leaving a hand's breadth between the strap and thigh. Optimal fitting ensures safety and prevents discomfort.Securing the Chest StrapEnsure the chest strap is snug yet comfortable by allowing about four fingers' width between the rug and the chest. This prevents issues associated with excessive pressure or loosening.Additional ConsiderationsSurcinglesFasten surcingles tightly enough to prevent slipping while allowing natural movement. Avoid over-tightening, which can hinder your horse's breathing or movement.Neck CoversNeck covers should fit snugly, allowing your horse natural movement without extra fastening that might strain their neck.ConclusionPrecise measurement is the key to ensuring your horse's rug fits like a glove, offering both comfort and protection from elements. Remember to: Measure accurately from chest to rump Avoid the rump and tail Consider build, activity, and seasonal changes Fit and adjust correctlyBy following these guidelines, you provide your horse with the optimum comfort and safety, enhancing their performance and happiness. If you require any additional insights, feel free to access our Stable Rugs and Turnout Rugs collections for further guidance and options.```html```

Debora Pijpers has announced her decision to step down as Horse Sport Ireland (HSI) High Performance Para Dressage Director at the end of 2024, after a transformative five-year tenure. Since taking on the role in 2019, Pijpers has developed a structured and successful programme that has delivered exceptional results on the global stage. Under her leadership, the Irish Para Dressage team consistently achieved top-10 finishes at major international championships, including the World Championships in Herning (2022), the European Championships in Riesenbeck (2023), and the Paralympic Games in Paris (2024). These achievements reflect the strength of the programme and the dedication of all involved. Despite challenges such as navigating the pandemic and enhancing programme structures, Pijpers demonstrated commitment has ensured a lasting legacy for Irish Para Dressage. To ensure continuity, she will remain involved as an advisor during the transition period, while Horse Sport Ireland looks to build on the strong []

Three-time Olympic gold medallist Charlotte Dujardin has been banned from competition by the FEI for a year after she engaged in conduct contrary to the principles of horse welfare.Dujardin was provisionally suspended from competition and forced to withdraw from the Paris Olympics in July after a video emerged of her whipping a horses legs during a training session in an indoor arena.The FEI announced the sanctions, which also include a fine of 10,000 Swiss Francs (8,886), today (Thursday 5 December). The time served during Dujardins provisional suspension, which was imposed on 23 July 2024, will be credited towards her one-year suspension.The ban has also been reciprocated by British Equestrian and British Dressage which means Dujardin cannot compete in any national competition or training event until the end of her suspension in July 2025.TimelineThe FEI received a video, submitted by a lawyer representing an undisclosed complainant, showing Dujardin repeatedly striking the legs of a horse with a whip, on 22 July 2024. The FEI immediately started an investigation and contacted both Dujardin and her national federation.The next day Dujardin confirmed she was the person in the video, announced she would withdraw from the Paris Olympics, and agreed to be provisionally suspended pending the outcome of the investigation.The FEIs investigation, conducted with Dujardins full cooperation, concluded that Dujardin was the only person who had engaged in a rule violation in relation to the video. Additionally, the investigation found that aside from the conduct shown in the video, no other rule violations had occurred during, or in connection with, the training session, said an FEI statement.Following the investigation, the FEI initiated formal disciplinary proceedings, citing three charges i) abuse of horse; ii) conduct that brings the FEI and/or equestrian sport and the FEI into disrepute; iii) breach of the FEI Code of Conduct on the Welfare of the Horse.Given the gravity of the offence and the relevant mitigating circumstances, including Dujardins prior clean disciplinary record and her voluntary withdrawal from the Paris 2024 Olympic Games, the FEI proposed a one-year suspension and a CHF 10,000 fine.The FEI said that they have not received any further complaints or reports of violations concerning Dujardin since the video emerged.Send a clear messageIt is regrettable that this case has put our sport in the headlines for all the wrong reasons, especially during a critical time leading up to the Olympic Games, said Sabrina Ibez, FEI secretary general.Yet, despite the challenges, the FEI acted decisively by immediately opening an investigation and imposing a provisional suspension.These significant sanctions send a clear message that anyone, regardless of their profile, who engages in conduct that compromises the welfare of the horse will face serious consequences.We believe this outcome reaffirms the FEIs commitment to equine welfare and to its role as guardian of our equine partners.Related contentIm deeply ashamed: Charlotte Dujardin withdraws from Paris OlympicsFEI announces provisional suspension for Charlotte DujardinVideo released relating to Charlotte Dujardin investigationWorld Horse Welfare and Brooke respond to Charlotte Dujardin investigationThe post Charlotte Dujardin handed one year ban 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 Flag Bearer!Check back weekly for a new featured horse so you can find your Right Horse.Photo courtesy Serenity Oaks Equine SanctuaryAdoptable Horse: Flag Bearer, a 9-year-old, 18.0hh Thoroughbred geldingOrganization: Serenity Oaks Equine Sanctuary, Plymouth, Mich.Get to Know Adoptable Horse Flag BearerMeet your new best friend! Bear is the kindest gentleman youll encounter. Hell accompany you wherever you need to go. Hes a steadfast citizen with a reliable mind, always eager to please. Appropriate for an advanced rider, Bear is sound and sane under saddle. He responds to all transitions and lead changes; he was in the dressage ring for a couple years before Serenity Oaks took him in. He easily could go back to showing in dressage or be your next trail horse; he really can go whichever way you want to take him. He will go out alone or with a friendhes not buddy-sour.Bear gets along well in both large and small herds, with mares or geldings. Currently, Bear enjoys 24/7 turnout with two other geldings. Bear loads, cross-ties, and is well behaved during visits from the farrier and veterinarian. Bear will stall with no issues. Bear is big and can be pushy sometimes, so he needs a strong but kind handler. Hes really an in-your-pocket kind of guy!Photo courtesy Serenity Oaks Equine SanctuaryContact Serenity Oaks Equine Sanctuary today about ASPCA Right Horse Adoptable Horse of the Week, Flag Bearer!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: Flag Bearer appeared first on Horse Illustrated Magazine.

Olympic champion Charlotte Dujardin, who was today (Thursday 5 December) handed a one-year ban and a fine by the FEI for excessively whipping a horse, has issued a statement on her Facebook and Instagram accounts.The GB dressage rider said she fully respected the verdict which will see her unable to compete internationally or nationally until July 2025 and required to pay a fine of 10,000 Swiss Francs (8,886).On 22 July 2024, a video was submitted to the FEI by a lawyer on behalf of an undisclosed claimant, which showed Dujardin continually hitting the legs of a horse she was training with a whip.The FEI immediately started an investigation, the 39-year-old was provisionally suspended and forced to withdraw from the Paris Olympics.Dujardin revealed the time since July 2024 had undoubtedly been one of the darkest and most difficult periods of my life and thanked those who had supported her saying every kind word truly has made a difference, more than youll ever know.In the statement, the three-time Olympic gold medallist also announced that she is pregnant with her second child, due in February, something that was planned well before the Olympics and something my partner Dean and I have been excited about for a long time.Charlotte Dujardins Facebook and Instagram statement in fullI fully respect the verdict issued by the Federation for Equestrian Sports (FEI), released today.As the federation has recognised, my actions in the video do not reflect who I am and I can only apologise again. I understand the responsibility that comes with my position in the sport, and I will forever aim to do better.This has undoubtedly been one of the darkest and most difficult periods of my life, and I would like to take this opportunity to thank everyone who has supported me during this time. To those of you who have sent messages, emails and tried to reach me to check in on how I am thank you. Every kind word truly has made a difference, more than youll ever know.What I was unable to share at the time is that I am currently pregnant, with my baby due in February. This was planned well before the Olympics and something my partner Dean and I have been excited about for a long time.At the moment, the energy I have is focused on Dean and our daughter Isabella, and we are all very much looking forward to the arrival of our new family member.Charlotte Dujardin, 5th December 2024The time served during Dujardins provisional suspension, which was imposed on 23 July 2024, will be credited towards her one-year suspension meaning she will be eligible to compete in July 2025.Related contentCharlotte Dujardin handed one year ban and fine by FEIIm deeply ashamed: Charlotte Dujardin withdraws from Paris OlympicsFEI announces provisional suspension for Charlotte DujardinVideo released relating to Charlotte Dujardin investigationWorld Horse Welfare and Brooke respond to Charlotte Dujardin investigationThe post I will forever aim to do better: Charlotte Dujardin responds to FEI ban appeared first on Your Horse.