Photo by Alayne BlickleDepending on whether you and your horses live in Maine, Kentucky, Montana, or California, winter in each area manifests itself differently. Each region has unique patterns; winter pastures in Montana look whiter than those in Northern California, which might be soggy and green. Experts tell us one principle is the same for winter horse pasture management no matter where you live: Overgrazing and allowing horses on soggy, wet soils are the bane of winter horse pasture management.Table of ContentsToggleThe Off SeasonWet Soils + Grazing = CompactionThe Cutoff Point Confinement Areas Guidelines for Limited Grazing Getting Help for Winter Horse Pasture ManagementKnow Your ResourcesWinter Horse Pasture Management: Key TakeawaysThe Off SeasonThere is always an off season, no matter where you live, says Jay Mirro, senior resource planner for the King Conservation District outside of Seattle, Wash. Mirro develops farm plans for horse and livestock owners; farm plans are basically a road map for managing land and animals.His tenet for winter horse pasture management is to never graze on wet soils and never graze below 3 inches of forage stubble heightthe height of a plant after grazing or mowing.The off season is when you dont put horses on pastures out of concern of degrading the health and productivity of your pasture, he explains.Wet Soils + Grazing = CompactionIdeally, its best for the pasture if you dont do anything to it in the winter when the ground is wet and not frozen, says Mirro. Grazing ground that is saturated and soggy creates compaction. Compacted soils dont drain as well and have less oxygen for plant roots to respire, creating an environment that promotes weeds instead of grass.Letting horses spend all winter on their normal pasture will compact wet soils and kill grasses. Photo by Alayne BlickleAll this reduces soil health, microbial life, and nutrient cycling of manure and urine, explains Mirro, who is himself also the owner of a 34-acre farm with seven acres of pasture for his beef cows, sheep, and goats.Grazing when the soils are wet makes for a higher chance that horse hooves will physically damage sod, tearing the grass out of the ground, creating depressions and uneven pock marks in the soil surface, he says. Next summer when you mow the field, you will curse because the ground is so uneven.Compacted ground is a bad deal if your intention is to grow a productive pasture. Compacted soils are much less absorbent, which causes water to run off, carrying soil sediment along with nutrients and pathogens from manure and urine. All of this is labeled as non-point pollution, and it can potentially harm waterways and the animals that live there.If the ground is wet enough that you wouldnt consider driving [equipment] on it, then its too wet for animals to use it, explains Marty Chaney, an agronomist and pasture management specialist with the Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) in Olympia, Wash. She was named Pasture Conservationist of the Year in January 2023, and is fondly known as The Grass Whisperer.The Cutoff Point Northern climes that experience a white winter still need to be careful when grazing pastures. Snow insulates the soil, says Chaney. Its possible that there is a layer of wet, unfrozen soil under the snow, which can be damaged. Even if there is no snow, frozen plant crowns can be subject to injury [from overgrazing].Snow helps insulate the soil, so even if you think your grass is protected, allowing horses to move around can still compact the soil and damage plant roots. Photo by Alayne BlicklePasture grasses do not grow during the winter months, so care must be taken to avoid animal consumption of available grass, as grass wont grow back for months.By allowing horses to graze and harvest forage, you are reducing the insulation that grass provides, causing further chilling of the soil. Spring regrowth will be slower, she explains, because of the required warming of the soil, which will be necessary after the lack of insulation during cold weather.If a pasture gets grazed down to the ground, it takes longer to regrow once spring rolls around again, says Chaney. Most grass species dont like to be grazed below 3 inches.Confinement Areas In the winter, youre basically trying to protect the soil and plants. The two together will give you a healthier pasture throughout the year. Instead, create a good confinement area, says Mirro. This provides a great solution to horsekeeping in the winter.The confinement area becomes your horses outdoor living quarters, and its where you keep your horse when pasture growth has slowed, so your pastures dont get grazed below 3 inches. A confinement area, roughly 1,000 square feet per horse with 6 of a well-draining gravel product [for footing], will have stability, he says.While your pastures get a break, winter outdoor space of at least 1,000 square feet per horse with 6 inches of well-draining footing is ideal. Photo by Alayne BlickleGuidelines for Limited Grazing This doesnt mean no pasture in the winter.There are still opportunities when horses can graze in the winter, says Mirro, as long as you are careful to keep horses off wet soils and keep turnout times short.He offers a few guidelines for judicious winter grazing: Limit turnout time to 30-60 minutes max. Besides the concern for overgrazing or compacting wet soils, also be aware of significantly changing your horses diet, which can upset his gut biome, leading to metabolic disorders like colic. Choose your highest and driest fields. Be mindful of the weather; if its been dry for a few days, thats the best time to do some limited turnout.If you absolutely have to use the pasture, its just 30 minutes twice a day, Chaney agrees. When you are starting to think about rototilling your garden in the springtime when the ground is firmer, that is the time to slowly begin integrating pasture back into your horses diet.You can still graze your winter pastures lightly; 30 minutes twice a day will keep grasses from getting overgrazed. Photo by Alayne BlickleGetting Help for Winter Horse Pasture ManagementBoth your NRCS office and your local conservation district can offer free, non-regulatory education and technical assistance (see Know Your Resources below).Two other sources of information can also provide management guidance: Soil Type: The Web Soil Survey is an online database operated by the USDA that provides information about the unique properties of each landowners soil.The front page is self-explanatory, and they have links that explain characteristics of soils, says Chaney. Some examples include texture, ability to drain, parent material, and distribution over a landscape. Soil Nutrient Testing: Its good to get one done every few years to see whats going on, says Chaney. Most labs will provide advice, too, on how to manage your pasture based on your soil testing results.Contact your conservation district or NRCS office for more help.Take a walk regularly in your pastures to see whats happening, Chaney suggests.She often tells landowners to photograph a section of their land and compare it over the years. You will more easily see the changes in types of plants and productivity, both positive and negative, this way. This will give you feedback on how your management is affecting the field.Know Your ResourcesAre you looking for help to improve your horse pasture? The following are two resources that offer technical assistance, education, and possibly even cost-sharing. Both of these agencies are located across the United Stateseven in Guam and Puerto Ricoand are here to serve you. The USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) is an agency of the U.S. Department of Agriculture. They are non-regulatory and provide technical and financial assistance to private landowners and agricultural producers in every county in the U.S.They have planning and evaluation services to help land managers balance their goals with natural resources protection. Find your local USDA NRCS Service Center here. Conservation Districts are non-regulatory technical assistance agencies located in nearly every county of the United States. Many provide farm and ranch technical support to help land managers balance their management goals along with natural resources protection. To locate your nearest conservation district office, do an Internet search by using the name of your county and the words conservation district.Explore the great services these agencies can offer you and your horse property!Winter Horse Pasture Management: Key TakeawaysWe need to balance the needs of the horse with the needs of the pasture, says Mirro. Many horse and livestock owners treat pastures as turnout exercise areas, and we dont want to get to the point where we dont have any grass in a pasture, because thats not ecologically sustainable.We need to be thinking about pastures with their effect on soil health, runoff, and the local environment. There are ways we can graze in the winter, but you just want to be mindful that you arent doing damage or increasing potential problems, he concludes.Pasture plants in more northern climates actually start their annual growth in the fall, so how you manage them in the winter will have a significant effect on how they perform the following spring and summer, adds Chaney.Winter horse pasture management is critical to maintaining both healthy horses and thriving pastures, no matter where you live. While its important to provide winter grazing opportunities when appropriate, careful attention must be paid to soil and forage conditions to prevent harm to both the pasture and the horses health.This article about winter horse pasture management appeared in the November/December 2023 issue of Horse Illustratedmagazine.Click here to subscribe!The post Winter Horse Pasture Management 101 appeared first on Horse Illustrated Magazine.

Topic Key Points The Risks of Leaving a Horse Alone in a Trailer Horses are social animals; anxiety when separated can cause injury. Behaviors such as rearing and pawing are common. Accidents and Horse Injury Risks Trailer-related accidents are a concern; anxious horses can destabilize trailers. Maintenance is crucial. Trailer Safety and Design Considerations Regular checks on brakes, lights, and structure are vital. Trailer types, e.g., double-deck trailers, can affect safety. Best Practices for Leaving a Horse Alone Training, environmental adjustments, safety equipment, and quick release mechanisms can reduce risks. Real-Life Scenarios and Learning Opportunities Case studies show the importance of correct hitching and load distribution in preventing accidents. The Role of Technology and Innovations Surveillance cameras and automated climate controls in trailers enhance security and comfort. Additional Resources and Support Resources such as Equine Guelph provide detailed guides on horse transport safety. Conclusion Key precautions include proper training, trailer maintenance, equipment selection, and ensuring good environmental conditions. Is It Safe to Leave Your Horse Alone in a Trailer at Shows? In the world of equine transport, the question of whether it's safe to leave your horse alone in a trailer at shows is a concern that many horse owners grapple with. The aim here is to delve into the risks involved, best practices to mitigate these risks, and insights from real-world case studies. The Risks of Leaving a Horse Alone in a Trailer Leaving a horse unattended in a trailer comes with unique challenges. Horses are social animals and many have a strong affinity to their herd. This can manifest as anxiety when separated, leading to behaviors such as rearing and pawing, which may result in injury. Accidents and Horse Injury Risks According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, trailer-related accidents are a substantial concern, representing a significant portion of vehicle incidents. The movement of an anxious horse can destabilize a trailer, leading to potentially dangerous situations. Trailer Safety and Design Considerations The design and condition of your horse trailer significantly impact safety. Regular maintenance checks on brakes, lights, and the structural interior help prevent accidents. Choosing the right trailer type also plays a crucial role. For instance, double-deck trailers can lead to more injuries due to less headroom. Best Practices for Leaving a Horse Alone Training and Desensitization Gradual exposure and positive reinforcement are keys to making your horse comfortable in trailers. Start with short trips and build up the duration over time, rewarding your horse with treats to create positive associations. Environmental Adjustments Ensure that the trailer's environment is conducive to comfort: well-ventilated, with plenty of hay and the ability for the horse to lower its head. This can reduce stress and the risk of respiratory issues. Using Appropriate Safety Equipment Employ safety equipment like leather halters and shipping boots to protect your horse. These can prevent serious injuries in case the horse panics. Quick Release Mechanisms Having quick release systems can be invaluable in emergencies, allowing for the rapid freeing of the horse if needed. Real-Life Scenarios and Learning Opportunities Case studies, like the incident near Kalamazoo, Michigan, emphasize the importance of proper hitching and load distribution in preventing accidents. Such examples highlight how meticulous preparation can prevent severe incidents. The Role of Technology and Innovations Technological advancements are being integrated into trailer designs. Features such as surveillance cameras and automated climate controls are becoming more common, adding layers of security and comfort. Additional Resources and Support For those looking to delve deeper into the specifics of horse transport safety, resources such as Equine Guelph offer detailed guides and insights into effective practices. Conclusion While leaving a horse alone in a trailer at shows presents inherent risks, following best practices can mitigate them. Key precautions include proper training, regular trailer maintenance, selecting suitable equipment, and ensuring good environmental conditions inside the trailer. By adhering to these principles, you can help safeguard your horse's well-being, allowing for a safe and stress-free experience at your next equine event. For more products catering to your equestrian needs, explore the Jodhpur Collection, Horse Riding Boots, or our selection of Everyday Horse Vitamins & Supplements.

Dos and donts to meet the dietary needs of retirees and pasture petsFor creatures of any species, proper diet and exercise are key to maintaining health and proper body weight and condition. But when a horse isnt getting regular exercise, the onus falls on diet alone. And, of course, this presents its own set of challenges.A horse might be idle for a variety of reasons. He could be a senior mount who has served his time in work and is enjoying a well-deserved retirement. She could be a young prospect who is getting time to grow and mature before starting in training. Or he could be a mature campaigner with a performance-limiting injury whos embarked on a new career as an equine babysitter.No matter the reason for horses inactivity, and even if theyre not being managed as intensively as is typical, owners must remain attentive to these animals diets. In this article youll learn some dos and donts for promoting nonworking horses optimal health (and preventing potential problems) with nutrition.Defining NonworkingWhen a horse is not working, we often refer to them as being idle and, more than likely, we are talking about a horse that is either retired or is idle due to disease, injury, weather/season or time of year, or perhaps in between competitions or events, says Amanda Adams, PhD, MARS EQUESTRIAN Research Fellow at the University of Kentucky M.H. Gluck Equine Research Center, in Lexington. Or in my case they are simply part of the family and, if we are both lucky, we trail/pleasure ride a few times a year, time permitting and, thus, there is quite a bit of idle time.As it turns out, idle horses make up a large portion of the equine population in the United States. The latest reportings from American Horse Publications, in 2018, listed the top two use of horse categories were for trail/pleasure riding and idle/retired/not working, she says.Dont: Ignore Body ConditionWhile your nonworking horse doesnt necessarily need to carry a rider around a jump course or up and down a trail, his fat cover remains an important part of his overall health, says Krishona Martinson, PhD, professor and equine extension specialist at the University of Minnesota College of Food, Agricultural and Natural Resources Sciences Department of Animal Science, in St. Paul.We know that both thin and obese horses are at a greater risk for certain disorders compared to horses at a healthy or recommended body weight, she says. For example, horses that become overweight have a higher chance of suffering from laminitis and tend to have challenges controlling their body temperatures (e.g., can overheat).Conversely, underweight horses could lack the fat stores necessary to withstand low temperatures and other stressful situations. They can develop health issues such as weakness and impaired gastrointestinal function, wound healing, and immunity.Do: Evaluate Weight and BCS RegularlyNutritionists and veterinarians recommend keeping horses around a body condition score (BCS) of 4 to 6 on the 9-point Henneke scale. The trick to maintaining a healthy weight and BCS? Monitoring them regularly so changes dont sneak up on you.We recommend that owners track their horses body weight and body condition score on a monthly basis, Martinson says. It takes a minimal amount of time and can easily be done while grooming.A scale is the most accurate way to evaluate body weight; however, few owners have frequent access to a scale. Instead, they can estimate body weight using a weight tape or formulas such as those offered on TheHorse.com (TheHorse.com/weightcalculator) or the Healthy Horse smartphone app, which Martinson helped develop at the University of Minnesota. Research has found that the Healthy Horse app results in a more accurate estimation of body weight compared to the equations and a weight tape, she says. Similar to mathematical equations, the app requires owners to take four measurementsheight, neck circumference, body length, and girth circumferenceand, once entered, the app estimates body weight. Likewise, owners should evaluate a horses BCS to identify changes, subtle or pronounced. Find a step-by-step guide on determining BCS at TheHorse.com/164978.Also consider a horses cresty neck score, or CNS, Adams says. The CNS evaluates the amount of fat in the neck region of the horse using a scale from 0 (no visible crest) to 5 (large crest that falls to one side), she says. The ideal CNS is 2 or lower; a score of 3 or greater has been recently shown to be a predictor of insulin dysregulation. Do: Consider the Horses Life StageWhether young and unbroke, mature and injured, or old and retired, your idle horse has specific nutrient needs based on life stage. For example, Martinson says, young horses have unique and important nutrient requirements to ensure safe and consistent growth and skeletal development and to put them on the right path for good health over their entire lives.Pregnant and lactating mares require enough calories and nutrients for themselves plus their developing dependents. Then there are our senior equine friends that face a number of possible health issues that impact body condition and nutrient requirements, from dental issues to diminished digestive efficiency. They might require a higher-fat diet than a normal adult horse to help maintain weight, or they might not be able to chew hay or grass well enough for their bodies to extract the nutrients they need. Adams, whos studied older horses extensively, cautions that its important to consider the aging horses metabolic status to pinpoint or rule out underlying issues that could impact his or her ideal diet, such as equine metabolic syndrome, insulin dysregulation, or pituitary pars intermedia dysfunction (equine Cushings). Metabolic status will definitely drive how the horse is managed and what diet they should be maintained on, she says.Dont: Overlook Nutritional NeedsIdle horses or horses at maintenance have similar vitamin, mineral, protein, and other requirements as working horses, even though theyre not working.Its best to reach out to an equine nutritionist, local extension educator, or veterinarian to help you determine what type of diet your horse should be maintained on, Adams says, but notes key points to remember about any horses diet:Forage (grass and/or hay) should be the foundation. A horse typically requires 1.5-2.5% of their body weight in forage daily, and this varies depending on their BCS, age, and working status, she says.Having hay analyzed is key to ensuring a horses nutritional needs are being met. You can work with an extension agent to help with this, or you can send a sample for analysis to a forage laboratory (such as EquiAnalytical). Importantly, provide adequate clean, fresh water, because an average size horse will drink 5-10 gallons per day.If horses are at a healthy body weight and have access to good-quality hay, then a ration balancer is usually the only additional feedstuff needed, Martinson says (more on these in a moment). And if the horses are on pasture for the majority of the time, its possible no additional feedstuffs are required, she says.Keep in mind that while good-quality pasture can supply all the nutrients some horses need, it can inevitably lead to unwanted weight gain.In this case, a grazing muzzle can help limit intake while keeping the horse on pasture, Martinson says. Of course, reducing pasture intake reduces the nutrients a horse consumes, so muzzled horses might also benefit from a ration balancer to meet their nutritional needs. Again, working with an equine nutritionist is the best way to ensure your horse, regardless of activity level, is getting proper nutrition, Martinson says.Do: Consider Ration BalancersFor idle horses that need proper nutrient levels without the calories of commercial feeds, balancers are the answer. A ration balancer is essentially a supplement because it is not a complete feed or a performance feed, Adams says. It does not provide calories, as it is designed to only provide (high-quality) protein, vitamins, and minerals that may be lacking in a horses diet. A ration balancer is a heavily fortified formulation that is fed in small amounts of 1 to 2 pounds per day per horse that (balances the diet) without causing the horse to pack on additional pounds.Another reason theyre helpful for idle horses is, because of their low-calorie status, theyre low in starch and sugar, or nonstructural carbohydrates (NSC). For this reason, says Adams, they have a low glycemic index thats ideal for horses with metabolic issues, especially those prone to laminitis. Do: Increase Forage First for Underweight HorsesYes, many idle horses gain weight in the absence of regular exercise. But a few will drop pounds or remain lean when theyre not in work. Owners might discover a horse doesnt thrive in a 24/7 turnout scenario, for instance, or temperature extremes might result in weight loss. Underlying medical issues, such as poor dental health or undiagnosed infections, could cause a horse to be underweight, and Martinson says its important to rule those out first before adjusting the diet.Assuming there are no underlying medical issues, it usually best to either increase the amount (or) quality of forage fed, she says. For example, going from a poor-quality grass hay to a better-quality grass-legume hay can sometimes be enough to result in weight gain.She cautioned horse owners to make any dietary changes slowly over the course of seven to 10 days. Consistent Attention Is KeyJust because a horse isnt actively working doesnt mean his diet isnt an important part of his well-being.All horses, regardless of working status, have nutrient requirements that need to be met, Martinson says. For adult idle horses or pasture pets, keeping these horses at a healthy body weight is usually the challenge. Consistently tracking body weight, body condition score, and other indicators of healthy body weight are key, she adds. Using research-based tools is also important and include grazing muzzles while on pasture, slow-feed haynets, and ration balancers. Finally, these horses rarely require grain, and owners should focus on maximizing forage in the diet.Adams recommends turning to the experts if you are unsure of how to monitor your horses condition or design his diet. Thats their job, let them help guide you, she says. Dont guess, ask, because guessing can lead you and your horse down the wrong path.

Scientists are improving equine pain control one NSAID and transdermal patch study at a timeFlunixin meglumine is typically given to horses suffering from abdominal pain. Researchers continue to examine if it is the best option. | iStockIn years past, veterinarians had limited access to analgesics for horses, leaving the animals to suffer from pain associated with colic, laminitis, osteoarthritis (OA), ocular trauma, and myriad other conditions. We now have more options that we once did; however, a void remains to be filled.The mainstay of analgesia in horses is non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), but these are limited in efficacy and can cause gastric ulceration and colitis, says Rachel Reed, DVM, Dipl. ACVAA, associate professor in Anesthesia Service in the University of Georgia College of Veterinary Medicines Department of Large Animal Medicine, in Athens. Opioids are great but carry their own adverse effects and, more concerningly, the potential for diversion (transferring for illicit use). Most opioids, therefore, cannot be sent home with owners.Further, most opioids must be injected in the muscle or in the vein. Options exist for transdermal administration, but those usually cost more, says Reed.Here well present some of the key studies conducted on medications used for pain control in horses published in the past 12 to 24 months, which centered on NSAIDs and opioid transdermal patches.NSAID Research in HorsesNSAIDs for Abdominal Pain: No Clear Winner Citarella et al. (2023) conducted a systematic review to determine if one NSAID could be recommended over another when treating abdominal pain (colic- or castration-related) in horses. They reviewed articles published between 1985 and 2023, searching for studies using meloxicam, flunixin meglumine (Banamine), phenylbutazone (Bute), firocoxib, and ketoprofen. Remarkably, only eight studies met the inclusion criteria during this 38-year period, involving 175 horses with colic pain and 184 horses undergoing castration.One reason for conducting this study was that anecdotal observations suggest that the cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) selective NSAIDs are not as effective at controlling abdominal pain as the traditional nonselective NSAIDs that block both COX-1 and COX-2, explains Regula Bettschart-Wolfensberger, Prof. Dr. med. vet., PhD, Dipl. ECVAA. Bettschart-Wolfensberger is head of the section of anesthesiology in University of Zrich Vetsuisse Facultys Department of Diagnostics and Clinical Sciences, in Switzerland, and a co-author on the study.Another reason for performing this study was that phenylbutazone and flunixin meglumine are the two most used NSAIDs for colic in the U.K., U.S., Canada, and South Africa. Scientists believe COX-2-selective NSAIDs (e.g., meloxicam, firocoxib) have a better safety profile than nonselective NSAIDs. Therefore, it would be valuable to know if COX-2 NSAIDs were as effective or more effective as analgesics compared to nonselective NSAIDs. Even understanding if one NSAID offers better pain relief than others, regardless of COX specificity, would be beneficial.The research team reported this review did not find scientific evidence supporting the widespread selection of flunixin meglumine as the first-line analgesic for abdominal pain. In 80% of the included studies, flunixin meglumine was used, highlighting that flunixin is considered a gold standard, yet without evidence to support this status.We need randomized blinded clinical trials of good quality, says Bettschart-Wolfensberger. This is expensive, time-consuming, and needs owners and everybody involved to be ready to enter the trial. We need to answer two questions: Which is safer? Which has the better efficacy?Citarella and colleagues therefore concluded, New, prospective, randomized, blinded clinical trials, focusing on addressing pain, with a validated easy-to-use pain score, are deemed necessary to elucidate the analgesic efficacy of NSAIDs in the treatment of abdominal pain in horses.In a similar vein Keen and Shipman (2024) conducted an evidence summary of published papers comparing the COX-2-selective NSAID firocoxib to the nonselective NSAID flunixin meglumine. Overall, they identified only two studies providing sufficient information to answer the question, In horses surgically treated for colic, is flunixin meglumine compared with firocoxib better at providing postoperative analgesia?Both flunixin and firocoxib provided similar levels of postoperative analgesia in horses surgically treated for strangulating lesions of the small intestine, says Emma Shipman, BVetMed, MSc, Dipl. ACVIM-LAIM, Dipl. ECEIM, CertVA, FHEA, MRCVS, clinical assistant professor in equine medicine at the University of Nottingham, in England.Given these results, one might be inclined to jump to COX-2-selective NSAIDs for postop analgesia. But Shipman doesnt feel this recommendation can be made just yet.Based on this study, I could be confident that I could provide good analgesia to my postoperative colic patients if I chose to use firocoxib, she says. Whether or not firocoxib is safer would require a different evidence analysis, different question, and different evaluation of the literature.Shipman says COX-2-specific NSAIDs in theory act on the inducible form of COX upregulated in systemic inflammation, while having less effect on COX-1 enzymes, also known as the housekeeping prostaglandins because of their beneficial functions, such as protecting the mucosal barriers in the gut. The unintentional blocking of COX-1 enzymes is believed to cause some of the side effects reported with NSAIDs, such as gastric ulceration.This is unfortunately a vast simplification, and there is not good-quality evidence in horses that COX-2-specific NSAIDs are safer, Shipman notes.Research on NSAID safety, however, continues as described in the next study.Safety of the COX-2 Selective NSAID Firocoxib Again, COX-2 enzymes are presumably associated with fewer side effects due to their COX-1-sparing effects. However, researchers have not evaluated the COX-2 NSAID firocoxib for long-term safety (beyond 14 days). Considering veterinarians prescribe this drug to many horses, especially those with chronic conditions such as OA, further studies are needed. Igncio et al. (2024) recently conducted a pilot study evaluating the safety of daily firocoxib for 40 days in healthy adult horses. They assessed the outcomes using hematological and biochemical measures (i.e., evaluating white and red blood cell parameters, platelets, and internal organ function). Seven horses were included and treated with a single 57 milli-gram tablet of firocoxib (dose range was 0.11-0.14 mg/kilogram) once daily for 40 days. The researchers collected and evaluated blood samples at baseline (Day 0), on Days 10, 20, 30, 40, and again on Day 55 and 70, which were following cessation of treatment.None of the horses showed any sign of NSAID toxicity such as abdominal pain, oral ulcers, reduced feed intake, or diarrhea throughout the study period to Day 70. The researchers noticed some hematologic and biochemical parameters were significantly reduced during treatment. Those included erythrocytes (red blood cells), lymphocytes (a type of white blood cell), total leukocytes (all types of white blood cells considered together), and the liver enzymes alkaline phosphatase (ALKP) and aspartate aminotransferase (AST). Those values, however, remained within the respective reference ranges and returned to their pretreatment levels after NSAIDs were discontinued.Igncio and colleagues therefore suggested further studies are warranted evaluating the safety of firocoxib for a more prolonged course and in healthy and injured or diseased horses using additional clinically relevant outcome measures.Safety of Bute in Young and Aged Horses Aged horse with chronic ailments often receive NSAIDs for prolonged periods. | Getty imagesStudies addressing NSAID safety werent limited to firocoxib. A team at Tufts Universitys Cummings School of Veterinary Medicine, in North Grafton, Massachusetts, and the Massachusetts College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences examined the safety, or more specifically the pharmacokinetics, of Bute in young and geriatric horses. Daniela Bedenice, Dr. med. vet., Dipl. ACVIM, ACVECC, of Tufts, a co-author on the study (Zaghloul et al., 2024), defines pharmacokinetics as the movement and the modification of a medication inside the body or how a drug is affected by the body after it is administered (i.e., how drugs are absorbed, distributed, metabolized, and excreted).The rationale for this study was that liver and kidney function may be reduced in aged horses, which in turn could alter drug metabolism and elimination and therefore increase the risk of drug toxicity and adverse effects, explains Bedenice.Aged horses with chronic ailments, such as lameness due to OA, often receive NSAIDs regularly and for prolonged periods, yet scientists had not yet evaluated the effect of aging on NSAID pharmacokinetics and safety. If the pharmacokinetics are indeed different in aged horses, then dose adjustments might be warranted to decrease the risk of drug toxicity, as is commonly performed in people.In the study, eight young healthy horses (4 to 10 years old) and eight healthy geriatric horses (25 years or older) each received a single dose of Bute (2.2 mg/kg) intravenously. Using standard pharmacokinetic procedures, such as assessing drug distribution and elimination, researchers did not identify any differences in the way the bodies of young and aged horses affected the drug and its metabolite, oxyphenbutazone.Based on these findings, it does not appear that phenylbutazone dose adjustments are required for healthy geriatric horses, says Bedenice. However, this was a single-dose study performed in clinically healthy animals, and further information would need to be gathered after longer-term NSAID use, especially in horses with underlying intestinal, kidney, or liver problems. Irrespective of patient age, routine monitoring of changes in blood protein levels and kidney function can help assess drug safety during longer-term use of phenylbutazone.Bute Plus Cannabidiol Oil (CBD) for Osteoarthritis Interest in CBD to manage painful degenerative conditions of joints continues to grow. | Getty imagesVeterinarians often manage the painful degenerative condition of joints with more than just NSAIDs, and interest continues to grow surrounding the use of cannabidiol for this purpose. Interlandi et al. (2024) of the Department of Veterinary Sciences at the University of Messina, Italy, recently evaluated the effect of CBD when administered in conjunction with Bute to horses diagnosed with mild joint OA. Twenty-four client-owned horses were included. All horses received 2.2 mg/kg Bute intravenously for five days. Horses in the treatment group also received a commercial CBD product by the oral transmucosal route once daily for 14 days (CBD dose was 0.03 mg/kg). The research team recorded clinical parameters (heart and respiratory rates, blood pressure, temperature, etc.), applied the Horse Chronic Pain Scale, and collected and analyzed blood samples at specific set points during the 14-day study period.They saw no adverse reactions, including sneezing, headshaking, nausea, salivation, sedation, lethargy, ataxia (incoordination), appetite or ocular changes, urinary incontinence, or diarrhea. The researchers observed significant decreases in heart and respiratory rates in the CBD group at certain time points during the study and recorded significantly lower pain scores in the CBD group than in the control group from Days 9 to 14.Based on these results, Interlandi et al. reported horses treated with the 15% CBD product used in this study had improved clinical conditions based on a decrease in heart and respiratory rates, as well as pain scores.They concluded that CBD added to a standard Bute regimen provided improved pain management and a more satisfactory quality of life than a single NSAID treatment in horses with OA.The researchers added that more research into reducing the use of NSAIDs in horses would be beneficial given the risk for the potentially serious adverse effects.Transdermal Opioid PatchesReed says opioids are also effective pain medications available for horses, typically administered via the intravenous route. Now, transdermal patches delivering opioids are available, with some clear benefits, including the ability to provide continuous noninvasive pain control.The opioid buprenorphine is about 30 times more potent than morphine. Its therapeutic response lasts longer, and it has a wider safety profile than the other opioids. Researchers have examined injectable but not transdermal buprenorphine.Despite the benefits of the transdermal route, absorption of the medication from the patch varies depending on the anatomic location where it is placed, Reed says. This variable absorption can affect both onset and duration of action of the medication.Reed and colleagues at UC Davis and Virginia-Maryland College of Veterinary Medicine therefore measured the plasma (circulating levels) of buprenorphine in horses with a matrix-type transdermal buprenorphine patch placed on the metacarpus (cannon bone), gaskin (the large muscle between the stifle and the hock), or ventral (underside) tail base. They included six healthy horses in the study and allowed a 10-day washout between the three treatments. After clipping and cleaning the target area, they placed two patcheseach containing 20 mg buprenorphine (20 micrograms/hour )and collected blood samples at frequent intervals for 120 hours to measure buprenorphine concentrations.All patches were well tolerated and did not irritate the skin. They remained adhered to the horse except in one case (the gaskin). Researchers observed the most consistent uptake of buprenorphine when patches were applied to the ventral aspect of the tail base.In the tail group, buprenorphine plasma concentrations exceeded 0.1 nanogram/milliliter (ng/ml) as quickly as two hours after patch placement and lasting up to 32 hours, making drug delivery consistent across this time period, says Reed. This peak plasma concentration was higher and achieved faster in the tail group than the other two groups.In a follow-up study Reed and her team found that 20-g/hr and 40-g/hr buprenorphine patches affixed to the tail proved safe and well tolerated by all horses. With the 40-g/hr patches, researchers saw consistently measurable plasma concentrations of buprenorphine from two hours to 96 hours after patch placement, with the mean plasma concentrations of >0.1 ng/ml from four to 40 hours.If buprenorphine patches are an option for an owner, it is a mechanism to provide long-lasting opioid analgesia without the need for an intravenous catheter, says Reed.While she and her research team also looked at fentanyl patches, the results were not as promising.In the fentanyl patch study, we used two, four, and six 100-g/hr patches and looked at antinociceptive (analgesic) effect via thermal and mechanical threshold, says Reed. Unfortunately, we did not achieve our target plasma concentration of 6 ng/ml and did not see an analgesic effect.Thus, if using fentanyl patches for analgesia in horses, more than six 100-g/hr patches are likely needed to achieve an effect.This would be outrageously expensive compared to other opioids, she explains. So, based on the results of that study, fentanyl patches arent a great way to provide analgesia to horses.Take-Home MessageThe equine industry has a critical need for effective equine pain-relief methods without significant adverse effects. NSAIDs are a great start, but they often provide insufficient analgesia on their own, says Reed. Opioids are highly effective but limited by route of administration and federal/state control due to the risk of diversion. Therefore, advancing research on new, safe, and effective analgesic agents becomes crucial for enhancing equine welfare.This article is from the Research Roundup 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.

Miniature Shetland pony, Tinkerbell, brought joy to many patients as she accompanied farrier Sam Dracott, who was dressed as Father Christmas, on a visit to the childrens ward at Swindons Great Western Hospital last week.Bedecked in reindeer antlers, the therapy pony from Dinky Ponies, an equine-assisted therapy business, received plenty of strokes and cuddles as she joined Father Christmas delivering presents.Sam, who has over six million followers on social media, was dressing up as Father Christmas for the first time. Dinky Ponies owner Sarah Woodland was also in attendance to ensure Tinkerbells welfare. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Sam Dracott (@samdracott_farrier)It was a total honour to be able to make so many unwell children smile on this special morning, said Sam.When we came up with the idea we werent sure we would be allowed to do it, but then we met Sarah and team, the stars aligned. Ive never dressed up as Santa before, but seeing the look on the childrens faces has given me a new love for all things Father Christmas. I would love to do it all again.Healing powersDinky Ponies is dedicated to supporting mental health and wellness through the healing power of horses. The ponies regularly visit the elderly, children, and adults with physical, mental and learning difficulties, or those that are just in need of some extra happiness and positivity.Farrier Sam Dracott dressed up as Father Christmas for a visit to a childrens hospital in SwindonWe are incredibly busy with visits, but we absolutely adore being able to bring joy to the children at Great Western Hospital, said Sarah.You can see how much it lights up their day and it makes all the hours of hard work looking after the ponies worthwhile. Its a huge lifestyle commitment and both myself and Darcey (James) spend the majority of our time visiting as many people as we can. We are hoping to find some additional support in the future so we can visit more people in need.Great Western Hospital regularly organises pony visits as part of their Pets As Therapy initiative. Their team of Pets As Therapy Volunteers have permission to bring registered therapy pets to the hospital and make regular weekly visits to nearly 70 different areas in support of the Trusts patients, visitors and staff.The positivity they bring can be seen in almost every single interaction the animals have with our patients and our staff, said Vickie Hayes, voluntary services manager.We are very proud to have Volunteers who wish to give their time to making a real difference to those who are most often in their lowest moments.Having Sarah bring her ponies to see us is always a privilege and we were especially thrilled to have Santa come along for this festive visit!Further readingAdvent calendars for adults, children and horses8 ways to motivate yourself to go hacking in winter (and why its good for you)Save the date for Your Horse Live 2025!The post Miniature Shetland joins Father Christmas on visit to childrens hospital appeared first on Your Horse.

Sydney Collier is a powerhouse in the world of Para-Dressage, a Paralympian, and one of the stars of the award-winning documentary ParaGold. Known for her determination, infectious positivity, and groundbreaking achievements, Sydney has redefined what it means to pursue greatness in the face of adversity.Diagnosed at a young age Wyburn-Mason Syndrome, a very rare disease (there are only 100 documented cases worldwide), Sydneys journey to becoming one of the top Para-Dressage riders in the world is nothing short of extraordinary. From representing the United States at the Paralympic Games, to becoming an author, a movie star, and a motivational force for athletes everywhere, her story is a testament to resilience, passion, and the power of believing in yourself.Im so excited to share this interview with Sydney where we discuss her journey to the Paralympic stage, her experiences filming ParaGold, and her vision for the future of equestrian sport. Join us as we dive into Sydneys world, whose story continues to empower riders and dreamers around the globe.Megan: Lets start by talking about when you started riding and how that passion for riding began?Sydney: I actually started riding just totally by chance. As a kid, horses were always an undercurrent in my life. I had tons of Breyer horses and horse toys, but first I tried every single sport known to mankind.But nothing ever clicked. was always the one out on the soccer field picking dandelions. It just was never my thing. And then one day at seven years old, by chance I said to my mom, I think I want to try riding lessons.And I swear that it was the moment she had been waiting for her entire life, because it felt like the next day I was signed up for those riding lessons.Megan: Was she into horses too?Sydney: Yeah, actually. She had a Tennessee Walker that shed been jumping on. And man, she worked her butt off to be able to ride. She was like the get up early and go muck all the stalls just to be able to ride" girl. And I think she was very excited that I showed an interest in it too.It was a really great interest because the moment I sat on my first pony, it just clicked immediately. I knew what I was meant to do with my life. From that moment forward, it was like a meet-cute of finding your passion.Megan: And then what did your path look like to where you are now? How did you get into it so full-on?Sydney: From the moment I started riding, I always said to my parentsbecause I started out actually as an eventer at seven years old"One day Im going to represent the USA at the Olympics in the sport of Eventing."And what's really cool is that my family never made me feel crazy for setting such a huge goal at seven years old. They always said, "Oh, yeah. You can totally do that. Just dedicate yourself and you can do it."Sydney riding around age 11 before her diagnosesAt that same age, when I started riding, I was also diagnosed with Wyburn-Mason syndromea rare, life-threatening diagnosis that fewer than a thousand people on earth actually have. The hospital told my parents to take me home and pray I didn't die of a massive bleed.Obviously, that was not the answer they were looking for, and this diagnosis led us down a path of experimental treatments. I was actually the first pediatric case with Wyburn-Mason syndrome to get treated.Throughout this really dark time in my life, with countless hospital visits and long days in the doctor's office, all I cared about was getting to ride. The doctors would always ask my mom and dad, "Are you sure that you want to let her do something so risky?" At that point, I was still eventing. They were always skeptical, but my parents knew it was what propelled me forward and kept me from focusing on all the negatives in my life.Horses were really what kept me going. Then, ultimately, when I had my first stroke at the age of 11, I went through the darkest period of my life. I woke up in a body that no longer felt like my own and didn't align with me or my goals.My dream of making it to the Olympics felt unreachable, and suddenly the world had zero expectations for me. Coming back to riding after that stroke was challenging. People can read about it in my book, but there were some bumpy moments.Ultimately, I discovered the sport of Para Dressage just in the nick of time at the age of 12. That day as I was watching, sitting in the stands, I had this realization: Sure, you're feeling judgment from yourself and the world, and you're super frustrated that your body no longer clicks with your sport, but look at these athletes out here doing what you always aimed to dorepresenting the USA on the world stage. I had this moment and I realized, The next World Equestrian Games, the next Paralympics, that is going to be me.That is the moment that I was finally able to see, okay, having a stroke isn't the end of the world. It's not the end of your life. And you can set new goals. It is possible.Megan: Wow. And on a totally different level, other people that ride have all experienced some sort of hardship. Riding can always be like that beacon of hope.I want to go back to what you said about changing your expectations to be in line with your realityI feel like that is so relevant to so many people, whether it's mental barriers, physical barriers, emotional blocks, family commitments. Horses can kind of level-set you in so many different ways.Forpeople that aren't familiar with your journey, after you had the stroke, is that when the loss of mobility in certain areas happened and you had to adjust how you were riding?Sydney: Yeah, the stroke made me lose movement on my left side. And I always forget to mention this, but I'm also blind in my right eye. I lost my vision when I was eight years old. It's a double whammy, right? I had that loss of movement on the left and no vision in my right eye as well, with only partial vision in my left eye.So I really had to learn how to adapt my ride. At the time, I didnt even know that those resources existed. Finding the world of para dressage helped meit opened up a whole new world in terms of adaptive aids and the different ways that para riders ride parallel to their able-bodied counterparts.Megan: And how did you first hear about para dressage?Sydney:We actually traveled all the way to the World Equestrian Games in 2010, which we had previously seen online.Actually, I think my mom begged me to go watch it because, me being the eventer I was, I thought, "Dressage? Thats the thing we suffer through to go fast and jump big things, right?" So she dragged me to the World Equestrian Games, and I found out this dressage thing is actually really cool. It was mind-blowing to me.Megan: That's so exciting. Okay, when I watched the ParaGold series, I could see you do a ton of cross-training in the gym, working on physical fitness, stability, and strength.What does that look like for you on a day-to-day basis? Do you go to the gym and then go ride? What is your training schedule?Sydney: I ride anywhere from four to five times a week and work out two to three days a week. Most of the time, I work out before I ride.I find these workouts are a great opportunity to warm up all the muscles I want firing when Im on the horse. Its definitely a more high-intensity workout than my walk-only rides, but it helps me tap into my core more effectively.Photo credit: Madison CollierMegan: Do you work with a personal trainer?Sydney: Yes, I work with a personal trainer here in Wellington named Tony Cabrales. Hes been awesome about keying into different parts of my body that need fine-tuning and adapting workouts to what my body needs on any given day.Megan: People don't really realize how important being consistent in the gym is to your success in the saddle.Sydney: Yes, I feel like it's coming into people's minds a little bit more now. It's becoming a little bit more popular, like the thought of an equestrian athlete in a whole-picture sense.Photo credit: USEF PhotographyMegan: Can you talk a little bit about what that whole experience of being part of the documentary ParaGold was like, having the cameras follow you around while you're trying to compete and do all your stuff at the same time?Sydney: I can definitely say that in the beginning I was a little bit intimidated by it, right? First and foremost, my biggest focus is being successful in the show ring. And I was really worried that it was going to become a distraction.But I have to say that Ron Davis, the director, was really phenomenal at putting both my trainer and me at ease when it came to microphoning us up for our training rides at competitions.Once I got over those initial nerves of, "Oh my gosh, being on camera, what if that's going to just totally take me out of my element?" Once I got over that, with his help, I was able to just completely and genuinely be me, right? Even with the mics on and the cameras on us.I have to say, my horse at the time really enjoyed being in the spotlight. He was a little bit of a ham, I'm not going to lie.Megan: When I watched the documentary, I thought , "How are they doing this?!"Sydney: When I think about myself at a competition, there's so much going on. I couldn't handle the extra eyes and then the thought of, "Oh, this is going to be on Apple TV one day for everybody to watch."Megan: That's a lot of pressure.Sydney: Yeah, right. Like, it's going to follow me forever, right? But the more I kind of got out of my head and just went along with it, I was able to get more into it. And I really ended up enjoying the process.Megan: That must have been a really cool experience.Sydney: Absolutely. It was a really cool opportunity. And I really appreciate Ron Davis and Michel Assouline (head of Paradressage in the US) for believing in me as one of the faces of para dressage to be featured in that film. I can't thank the people who made it possible, for allowing me to be a part of it.Megan: Do you keep in touch with any of the other athletes who were featured?Sydney: Yes. In para dressage here in the USA, we're actually a pretty small group, and we're all very, very close. A lot of us are based here in Wellington, Florida. Para dressage here in the US is made up of about 30 athletes altogether, so you're very close with all your competitors. You end up becoming quick friends.Megan:And do any of you train at the same barns?Sydney: Nowadays, we've seen some trainers having multiple para riders. I currently don't have any of my fellow paras at the barn where I train.Megan: And who is your trainer?Sydney: I currently train with Devon Kane at Diamante Farms. At the time of the documentary, I was with Katie Robicheaux at LAcadiane Equine Management, in Massachusetts. and then here in Florida seasonally, and at the point when we were filming Paragold.Megan: So now I want to ask you a little bit about training and competition. InParaGold, you talked a little bit about how you adapt to your physical needs. Can you explain a little bit about what that looks like for people who arent familiar?Sydney: Yes, so I've definitely gone through a lot of phases when it comes to adaptions. Some of the most recent adaptations that I've used are magnetic stirrups, which are super handy. I ride with a shorter adapted rein so that I can ride one-handed. I used to ride with my spur straps that secured my stirrups to the girth. So that just helped with leg stabilization. And I've ridden with a curved whip that goes over my left leg.Sydney and All In One (aka Alle)Megan: So you can use that to support that side?Sydney: Yes, so basically that whip curves over my left leg and acts as if it is my left leg, since my left leg can't cue the horse at all. I've also ridden with a sling on my left arm. I've ridden with my left arm behind my back in that sling as well.Megan: So do things change with your condition, or do they stay the same and you just make changes based on performance?Sydney: Yes, things definitely change. I would say with anyone's disability, and for me, things change a lot because of the muscle tone that I have on my left side. It varies a lot day to day, and especially recently it's gotten super intense. So as I'm riding around, it'll just kind of go bonkers, and my left leg will spasm out of control and accidentally kick my horse.And my horse has to be really good at just tuning that out, being like, "Okay, blinders on, we're not focusing on what her crazy leg is doing." They have to get really good at focusing on the things that they actually need, like the cues for my body that they actually need.Megan: So you probably have to develop a really strong bond with your horses and build a lot of trust with them?Sydney: Yes, and I would say that every horse that I've been lucky enough to ride on during this journey, I've had very strong bonds with. They've all been so different in subtle little ways. They've all been super caring for me, and even if they were kind of feisty for a trainer, I could get on and they're just like, "Oh, okay, it's Syd. I know her."For example, Alle was a very tricky horse to ride. He would give trainers endless amounts of sass. And then I would get on, and he would still give me some sass but more manageable sass. They all just kind of got it. They understood that we were on the same team and were able to really focus on what they needed to focus on and tune out what they didn't, thanks to a lot of practice and getting to know one another on a deeper level.Megan: Can you tell me about your most memorable moment in competition? Do you have one win that you'll never forget?Sydney: Yes, actually. I would say that my most memorable moment was the Rio Paralympic Games. For one, riding down the centerline at my first Paralympics was just a feeling of overwhelming pride and honor.Sydney & Alle in RioAnother big thing I experienced at the Rio Paralympic Games was the feeling, for the first time in my life, of being part of the majority rather than the minority. Staying in the athlete's village and being surrounded by thousands of other athletes with disabilities, it was my first time feeling just fully accepted and embraced.That representation and feeling is something I aspire to create in everyday life for other people with disabilities. It shouldn't just be this fleeting moment when we can experience completely being accepted or being ourselves. For me, that was a defining moment of my lifeexperiencing it and then coming home from the Paralympics and saying, "Okay, there's a lot of times in life where people with disabilities are viewed differently, and I want to make it my life's work to really change how we go about disability, not only here in America but worldwide."That's when I really honed in on that feeling. I wanted future generations to not have to go through what I went through at 11 years oldfeeling ostracized.Megan: I want to ask you about advocacy. What are some of the ways the sport can make it feel more inclusive or make people with disabilities feel part of the majority and get that feeling you had?Sydney: Honestly, the more people that we can get involved, the more that we can make it less intimidating for people with disabilities to approach equestrian sports, the better. Because I think a lot of people would love to experience equestrian sports. I was just speaking at a disability convention in Fort Lauderdale, and this lady who was blind told me, "Oh, I have always wanted to ride a horse, but I've never had access, or I've always felt too intimidated by how big the idea felt."And I said, "Man, there are so many ways to access it." I feel like unless you're intimately involved in equestrian sports, sometimes it just feels so overwhelming to take that first step.For me, really just the grassroots efforthelping people at the national level develop the national program and kind of going from thereI think that's a big start right there. When you do it right and start maybe locally, then transition to showing nationally, it feels much less intimidating. Youre able to foster grassroots talent that might have slipped through the cracks without it.Megan: Whatadvice would you give to a barn or trainer that has never had a student with disabilities or barn mates who havent ridden with someone with disabilities? How would you advise them to make it an inclusive place for someone new who wants to take a lesson?Sydney: Just treat us like anyone else. We're literally just like you. It's that easy, really. It really is that simple. Sure, maybe there will be some physical accommodations, like a four-step mounting block rather than a three-step block to get on and off a horse. Make sure those types of things are in place. But dont make a big deal out of it. Just treat us like anyone else.Thats the biggest message I want to come out of my book Beyond Expectations and the ParaGold documentarynormalizing it and increasing representation so that other people like me can see someone like them out there. Once they see whats possible, that first step becomes less intimidating.Megan: Do you have any resources you could recommend for people who want to get started?Sydney: Yes, the United States Para-Equestrian Association (USPEA) is a great resource. People can also find programs like PATH International and others, which would be a great place to start.Megan:What are your goals moving forward, like into the new year, five years, or ten years? What does that look like for you?Sydney: For the new year, its heading into the show ring here at Global and competing in the first qualifier. We just want to do our personal best, which is all any of us can ask for. It will actually be Bell Bottomsthe horse Im currently working withits our second show season together and her second show season ever. That will make it really special.Megan: Oh, wow, thats exciting. Is she a young horse?Sydney: Shes just turning 10 in January, so shes experienced but still green to the show ring. Its very special for me because Ive been the one to put all her shows on her. Thats a new experience for me since every other horse Ive ridden was already a made horse at lower levels. Beebs is the first upper-level, green-to-the-show-ring horse Ive had the privilege to ride. Its been a learning curve because riding lower-level horses is so different from upper-level ones.Sydney & Beebs Photo credit: Sue WeaklyMegan: So your big, audacious goal was to go to the Paralympics, and you did that. So how do you make bigger goals at this stage?Sydney: Honestly, once youve done it, you get the bug. My next goal is the World Championships in Aachen in 2026 and then the Los Angeles 2028 Paralympics. I aspire to help the USA win gold at home games in LA and in Aachen. Thats what Beebs and I are working so diligently toward. Shes such a special horse.Megan: Thats amazing. Tell me more about her. What makes your partnership with Beebs so special?Sydney: Oh man, shes everything. Shes my first mare that Ive had a long-term relationship with, and shes a chestnut. You know what they say about chestnut mares, but she doesnt fit that stereotype at all. Shes so motherly with me and very polite, even when she has opinions. Shes super perceptive and protective. For example, my left leg spasmed during our ride this morning, and it was unintentionally kicking her hard. She just kept chugging along like, I dont feel anything. Were good. Thats true heart.Megan: Maybe she understands the intention behind it, knowing youre not trying to do it on purpose.Sydney: Absolutely. Shes the most perceptive horse Ive had. Its been my greatest honor to form this relationship with her and bring her along in the show ring.Megan: Would you say youre a mare person now?Sydney: I think so. My trainer, Devin, always said she saw me on a mare. And I can see whymares challenge you, but once youve built that bond, youre solid. Its been such a privilege to grow this partnership with Beebs.The biggest message that I want to come out of Beyond Expectations and out of Paragold is just normalizing it, and increasing representation so that other people like me can see someone out there like them, see what is possible, and then all of a sudden that first step becomes less intimidating.Megan: Do you have any resources that you could recommend for people that want to get started?Sydney: The USPA is a great resource, the United States Para-Equestrian Association.They are a great resource and a great place to start.Megan: Is there a particular horse that has left the biggest mark on your career? Would you say that's Beebs?Sydney: I would say I can't pick one. I would say all of them because they all have led me to this point in my life. Every single one has had so many special attributes and things that just made them so uniquely them that I fell in love with. I could not pick one, even if you had a gun to my head.And I also feel that being an inspiration . . . to me, inspiration is not an action word. I would much rather be a motivation for someone than an inspiration because a motivating factor helps you take that first step to reach out to that show organizer or reach out to that barn, whereas when someone just inspires you it's just a fleeting thought. My biggest thing is that I want to help others to live a life beyond expectations.Megan: If Beebs could talk, what do you think she would say about you?Sydney: I think that she would say that I always bring the best snack. I think she would say that just like any rider, I have my good days and my bad days, but she enjoys when I'm having a good day.Megan: And what do you like to do outside of riding? Like, what do you do to relax when you're not riding or have fun?Sydney: I really love to tend to my plants. I enjoy hanging out with my service dog, Logan.Being out in nature, especially now that it's a little bit cooler here in Wellington I'm a big outdoors person.Megan: What would people be surprised to find out about para dressage?Sydney: The one thing that I think people would be surprised to find out about para dressage is how similar it is to dressage. Throughout my years of doing para dressage, I started out riding with so many compensating aids over the years, and since starting to ride with Devin.Really, as I've gotten stronger in the gym and made the parts that I can control stronger, the more that we have stripped away the compensating aids that I was fighting against in my ride, the more that I've been able to ride more evenly and correctly. When you just think about the structure of dressage and what makes good dressage, it's exactly the same for us para dressage riders. Even if you have a disability, you're just adapting to that disability in your mind.My biggest thing is I want to help make para dressage approachable and help bring along the future generation of kids in para dressage. That was always the vision for my mentor Jonathan Wentz and mefostering the youth connection because once we were the babies in para dressage and we want to help bring other kids into it and get them passionate about it. Without a youth tie, you don't really have a future of the sport.With or without a disability, were basically all the same as riders and have a lot in common, but we kind of get stuck in our own little boxes. The more that we can break down these barriers, maybe we'll find other things that we're passionate about and maybe we'll find other people that we can be friends with and, just like that, it'll be a more unified horse world.Resources:Sydney's website: www.sydsparaquest.comUSPEA site: https://www.uspea.org/Link to order Sydney's book: https://trafalgarbooks.com/products/beyond-expectationsFollow Sydney on Instagram: @sydsparaquestSpecial thanks to Helen Townes for her help editing this transcript.

Key Points Details Understanding the Equine Crisis in the UK Over 6,000 horses at risk in England and Wales due to neglect and abandonment. Legislative changes in 2014-2015 reduced fly-grazing. Benefits of Rehoming Through Charities - Comprehensive assessments match horses and owners. - Ongoing support and advice provided. - Transparency ensures trust and reduces risks. - Rehoming creates space for more horses in need. Avoiding Pity Purchases - Ensure you have necessary resources and experience. - Handle complex cases with care and resources. - Match with a horse that suits your lifestyle and experience. The Joy of Rehoming a Welsh Pony - Welsh ponies are versatile and suitable for various experience levels. - Rehoming offers emotional rewards and companionship. - Community support from charity borrowers. Practical Steps to Rehoming - Research and choose a reputable charity. - Assess your capabilities and resources. - Match with an appropriate horse. - Understand the rehoming process and terms. - Prepare for ongoing support from the charity. Conclusion Rehoming a Welsh pony can be rewarding with proper navigation, avoiding pity purchases, ensuring a good match, and preparing for new responsibilities. Navigating Pity Purchases: The Unexpected Joy of Rehoming a Sweet Welsh PonyWhen you're about to bring a new horse into your life, it's easy to get swept away by the emotional appeal of rescuing an animal in need. This phenomemon is often referred to as a "pity purchase." While this intention is noble, it's important to approach this decision with careful consideration. Heres a guide on how rehoming a sweet Welsh pony can be a rewarding and joyful experience, while avoiding the pitfalls of a pity purchase.Understanding the Equine Crisis in the UKBefore diving into the joys of rehoming, it's vital to understand the broader context of equine welfare in the UK. Currently, more than 6,000 horses in England and Wales are at risk of neglect or suffering[1]. The economic downturn in 2012 and subsequent horse meat incidents in 2013 exacerbated this issue, leading to a surge in horse abandonment. However, legislative changes such as the Control of Horses (Wales) Act 2014 and the Control of Horses Act 2015 have helped reduce the number of horses being fly-grazed on public land[4].The Benefits of Rehoming Through CharitiesRehoming a horse through reputable charities can be a highly rewarding experience. Let's explore some key benefits: Comprehensive Assessments: Charities provide an honest assessment of the horses capabilities, health, and temperament. This ensures you are matched with a horse that fits your lifestyle and experience level[2][5]. Ongoing Support: Organizations like World Horse Welfare and the Blue Cross offer ongoing support and advice to help you care for your new horse. This includes regular check-ins and assistance if any issues arise[2][5]. Transparency and Trust: Reputable charities are transparent about the horses history and provide a full health and training assessment. This reduces the risks associated with buying a horse privately[2][5]. Creating Space for More Horses: By rehoming a horse, you are creating space for another horse in need to be taken into care. This cycle of rehoming aids in addressing the ongoing equine welfare crisis[5].Avoiding Pity PurchasesWhile the urge to rescue a horse in distress is understandable, it's essential to avoid making a decision based solely on pity. Consider these points: Capability and Resources: Ensure you have the necessary resources, including time, money, and experience, to provide appropriate care for a horse. Charities often report instances where well-intentioned rescuers are unable to maintain long-term care for the horses they rescue[1]. Complex Cases: Many horses in need of rehoming come with complex welfare concerns that require multiple visits and a multi-agency approach to resolve. This can be demanding on both time and resources[1]. Matching the Right Horse: Its crucial to be matched with a horse that aligns with your lifestyle, experience, and what you can offer. Charities help in this process by ensuring the horse is individually matched to you[2][5].The Joy of Rehoming a Welsh PonyWelsh ponies are beloved for their gentle nature, intelligence, and versatility. Here are several reasons Welsh ponies make excellent companions: Versatile Companions: Welsh ponies can serve as both ridden horses and companions. They are suitable for a range of ages and experience levels, from children to seasoned riders[2]. Emotional Rewards: Rehoming a Welsh pony can be incredibly rewarding. You're not only giving a second chance to a horse in need but also gaining a loyal and loving companion[5]. Community Support: Many charities have a community of borrowers who support each other. This can be a wonderful way to connect with other horse owners and gain valuable advice and support[2].Practical Steps to RehomingIf you're considering rehoming a Welsh pony, here are practical steps to follow: Research and Choose a Reputable Charity: Look into charities like World Horse Welfare or the Blue Cross, which have extensive rehoming programs and provide comprehensive support[2][5]. Assess Your Capabilities: Ensure you have the necessary resources and experience to care for a horse. Consider factors such as space, budget, and time commitment. Find the Right Match: Work with the charity to find a horse that matches your needs and capabilities. This includes considering the horses temperament, health, and training level. Understand the Rehoming Process: Charities often have a monitored loan system where they check in on the horse periodically. Understand the terms of the loan and the process for transferring ownership if applicable[2][5]. Prepare for Ongoing Support: Be ready to receive and follow advice and support provided by the charity. This can include regular visits and guidance on caring for your new horse.ConclusionRehoming a sweet Welsh pony can be a deeply rewarding experience but requires thoughtful navigation to avoid the pitfalls of a pity purchase. By working with reputable charities, ensuring a suitable match with the right horse, and being prepared for the responsibilities involved, you provide a loving home to a horse in need while enriching your own life with the companionship and joy that horses bring. Visit the rehoming pages of World Horse Welfare or the Blue Cross for more information on rehoming horses and finding your perfect match.```html```

Our festive final is here! Beautiful league prizes courtesy of Cryotherapy Ireland and spot prizes for most festive attire! Family-friendly day with complimentary mulled wine and sweet treats!

A horse in Whatcom County, Washington, recently tested positive for equine influenza and strangles. The horse moved from British Columbia, Canada, to Fort Worth, Texas, on November 25 and then to Washington on November 29, where it was tested at a veterinary clinic. The horse then moved back to British Columbia against medical advice.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.About Equine InfluenzaEquine influenzais a highly contagious respiratory disease that infects horses, ponies, and other equids, such as donkeys, mules, and zebras. The virus that causes it is spread via saliva and respiratory secretions from infected horses. Horses are commonly exposed via horse-to-horse contact; aerosol transmission from coughing and sneezing; and contact with humans contaminated hands, shoes, or clothes or contaminated tack, buckets, or other equipment.Clinical signs of equine influenza infection can include a high fever (up to 106F); a dry, hacking cough; depression; weakness; anorexia; serous (watery) nasal discharge; and slightly enlarged lymph nodes. Consider monitoring your horses health at shows by taking his temperature daily, which can help you pick up on signs of infection early and take appropriate measures to reduce disease spread.Vaccinationis an important and inexpensive way to protect your horse. US Equestrian requires proof that horses have had an equine influenza vaccination within the six months prior to attending organization-sanctioned competitions or events. Your veterinarian can help you determine what other vaccines your horse might benefit from.In addition to vaccinating, following strictbiosecurity protocolscan help reduce your horses chance of infection and disease. Such measures include quarantining new equine arrivals at barns, disinfecting buckets and equipment, and preventing nose-to-nose contact between horses.Click hereto read common questions and answers about equine influenza.