Voting has opened for the 2025 Smiley Charity Film Awards and a film made by international working horse and donkey charity Brooke has been nominated in the 15-50 million category.The film, which is entitled Brooke at 90 and is voiced by Ted Lasso actress Annette Badland, needs your votes to reach the shortlist.Brooke at 90 uses archival and present-day footage to explore the charitys 90-year history of improving the lives of working animals. Im so proud to be supporting Brooke, a charity that makes a world of difference to millions of working horses, donkeys and mules in the communities where they are needed most, said Annette.It is an absolute privilege to be part of this wonderful story of hope, and reading the script brought a tear to my eye.HistoryBrooke, which was founded by Dorothy Brooke in 1934,works with communities, local health providers and policy makers to create a better life for working animals and their owners.The charity recognises that working animals are an essential part of many communities around the world and without them they would be unable to earn a living, provide food for their families and send their children to school.The annual Smiley Charity Film Awards were created tocelebrate the success of film in fundraising, to increase exposure of charity films and to encourage donations for good causes.They arethe worlds largest cause-based film campaign and have helped more than 5,000 causes gain exposure, donations and volunteers since their creation seven years ago.At the 2023 Charity Film Awards, Brooke won the Grand Prix Peoples Choice Award for Unbreakable Bonds, a film which showed how bonds between people and animals build foundations for life-changing relationships.Click here to vote for Brooke at 90. Voting closes on Wednesday 29 January. Main image (c) Brooke.Further readingHow to tell if a horse is happyHow to stop a horse bitingHow to stop a horse buckingCan you read your horses body language?How to take care of a horseThe post Brooke nominated for film award vote now! appeared first on Your Horse.

Natural Treatment Benefits Application/Usage Coconut Oil - Enhances skin health - Relieves insect bites - Promotes digestive health - Apply to affected skin areas - Rub on insect bites - Gradually introduce into diet Herbal Infusions - Anti-inflammatory properties - Reduces allergy symptoms - Use herbs like nettle, peppermint, and chamomile Steam Therapy - Clears nasal passages - Eases respiratory symptoms - Use with essential oils like eucalyptus - Include in daily routine Natural Antihistamines - Mitigates allergic reactions - Promotes comprehensive allergy relief - Include vitamin C-rich foods (apples, carrots) Essential Oil Blends - Promotes healing - Prevents further irritation - Use blends with lavender and peppermint As summer approaches, many pony owners notice their beloved equines developing allergy symptoms. These can range from itchy skin and scratching to more serious issues like respiratory problems. While traditional treatments have their place, a growing number of owners prefer natural remedies. This exploration focuses on the potential of coconut oil and other natural treatments to ease pony allergies. The Benefits of Coconut Oil for Ponies Recently, coconut oil has been heralded for its wide range of health benefits. Its application in managing pony allergies is gaining traction for good reason. Enhancing Skin Health The rich concentration of medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs) like lauric acid in coconut oil can help soothe skin conditions. It works against eczema and dermatitis, which are common during summer (All Is Well Pets). Relieving Insect Bites Ponies frequently suffer from insect bites. Coconut oil, applied to the affected areas, can provide immediate relief by reducing inflammation and acting as a barrier to further irritation (Natural Equine Essentials). Promoting Digestive Health Internally, coconut oil can enhance a pony's digestive health. Its easy digestibility supports gut health, particularly beneficial for ponies prone to digestive disturbances like colic (Natural Equine Essentials). Exploring Other Natural Remedies While coconut oil is a versatile ally, other natural remedies can be used to complement its effects on managing pony allergies. Harnessing the Power of Herbal Infusions Herbs such as nettle, peppermint, and chamomile can be steeped into infusions to ease allergy symptoms. Nettle, in particular, exhibits anti-inflammatory properties that reduce allergic responses (Becker ENT and Allergy). Embracing Steam Therapy Steam therapy can help clear congested nasal passages. Using essential oils such as eucalyptus enhances this effect, providing much-needed relief from respiratory symptoms (Detroit Sinus Center). Leveraging Natural Antihistamines Nutrients like quercetin and vitamin C boast natural antihistamine capabilities. Including vitamin C-rich foods, such as apples and carrots, in a pony's diet can help mitigate allergic reactions (Becker ENT and Allergy). Utilizing Essential Oil Blends Blends of oils, such as lavender and peppermint, offer comprehensive relief when used with coconut oil. These blends promote healing and prevent further irritation, encouraging hair regrowth where needed. Practical Advice for Natural Allergy Management Incorporating these remedies into a pony's routine involves some simple yet practical steps to ensure effectiveness. Best Practices for Topical Application Apply coconut oil generously to affected areas on your pony to nourish and heal skin. For insect bites, rub it directly onto the site for instant soothing action. Dietary Integration for Digestive Support Introduce coconut oil gradually into your pony's diet to aid digestion. It is important to begin with small quantities to avoid laxative effects. Implementing a Steam Therapy Routine Create a steam bath by adding essential oils to hot water and let your pony inhale the steam. This can be part of their daily routine to alleviate respiratory issues. Conclusion Effectively managing pony allergies during summer requires a multi-pronged approach where natural remedies like coconut oil play a vital role. When combined with herbal infusions, steam therapy, and essential oils, these remedies provide substantial relief, helping ponies enjoy their summerwithout the sneezes! Explore more about enhancing your ponys health through apparel and equestrian supplements on our homepage and collections like the Everyday Horse Vitamins & Supplements to further support your pony's wellbeing.

Valentines Day is a great occasion to treat the ones you love, whether thats your horse, husband, girlfriend or dog! Whether you are looking for a grand romantic gesture or want to show a small sign of appreciation, here at Redpost we have something for everyone.Our Valentines Day Gift Guide is packed with equestrian and country ideas for all budgets that say I Love You. Or if youre not celebrating, its the perfect time to treat yourself.Valentines Gifts for Your HorseChoose something practical this Valentines Day that your horse will love. Pick from a cosy stable rug for cold winter nights, or a set of horse boots to wear when in the show ring. And for those that want to really get their horse involved in the spirit of Valentines Day, we have a selection of pink-themed items that will bring some romance to your ride. Looking for something smaller? A bag of treats or a lick will go be loved by any horse or pony!Equilibrium Heatsense Massage PadShires Velociti Lusso Elite Flash BridleKentucky Velvet Saddlecloth FuchsiaWeatherBeeta ComFiTec Ultra Comfi Turnout Rug Shires Tempest Original Fleece/Mesh Cooler Rug Maroon Imperial Riding Shiny Grooming Box Pink Redpost Toffee Apple Treats QHP Horse Toy Valentine Horse Veredus Carbon Gel Absolute Front Tendon Boots Its Horsome Carrot Ball Blue Stubben Brush On Grooming Spray Cherry Blossom Kentucky Bamboo Shield Vegan Sheepskin Tendon Boots Old Rose Heiniger Xplorer Cordless Clippers Stubbs Horseshoe Nameplate Pink LeMieux Leather Crystal Headcollar Brown Cavalleria Toscana Jersey Stripe Ear Net Light Pink/Black Parallax Hay Play Ball Feeder Red MagicBrush Sea Salt Shower Starter Kit Woof Wear Club Brushing Boots Black/Berry LeMieux Loire Classic Satin Close Contact Square Chilli Horslyx Pro Digest Balancer Lick Gifts for your Horse Valentines Gifts for HerSometimes its good to go for something a little bit more considered. Make it personal by letting her design a custom pair of DeNiro Riding Boots to perfectly match her style. Or help her create a semi-custom Antars Hat for maximum safety and an unrivalled style when in the saddle. Clothing and footwear are always a good gift option, and if your other half is one who wont be beaten by bad weather, then a waterproof jacket or a pair of wellington boots are a surefire hit. Even a small gift is a lovely way to show your affection; why not treat her to a new mug for the office, or a cosy bobble hat to keep her warm on winter walks.DeNiro Tall Riding BootsTech Venice Evo Safety Stirrups Silver/PinkRidgeline Monsoon Nordic Ladies SmockSamshield Shadowmatt 2.0 Crystal Fabric Riding Hat Dublin River IV Country Boots Holland Cooper Varsity Ladies Hoodie Peony Pink Sophie Allport Mug Highland Stag Le Chameau Vierzonord Neoprene Lined Ladies Wellingtons Karben Alina Ellipse Riding Hat Navy/Rose Gold LeMieux Zoe Ladies Competition Jacket Ariat Country Novato Ladies Sweater Earth Fairfax and Favor Windsor Tote Bag Tan Suede HKM Keep Warm Unisex Heating Socks Grey Hy Equestrian Polo Belt Brown/Purple/Pink/Beige EQUIDRY x Redpost All Rounder Evolution Adults Jacket Redpost Sockshop Heat Holders Marlow Neck Warmer Dusky Pink Arc4Health Complete Kit Ariat Tilbury Short Western Boots Shop all Gifts for Her Valentines Day Gifts for HimIf you are looking for something to impress him this Valentines Day, go for something hell use time and time again. Some casual shoes to slip on when heading out for the day will be a great hit, or he will appreciate cosy jacket to keep him warm when the temperatures drop. If your other half is also an equestrian, refresh his riding footwear with a pair of long boots, or keep him safe out riding with a riding hat that meets the current standards. HKM Mens Heat Control Heated GiletAriat Booker Ultra Square Toe Western BootsLeMieux Ultra Stride Wellington BootsKASK Dogma Riding Hat Ridgeline Ballistic Mens Hoodie Deep Forest Le Chameau Vierzonord Neoprene Lined Mens Wellingtons Vert Vierzon Freejump SoftUp Classic+ Stirrups EGO7 BE AIR Mens Competition Jacket Chatham The Deck II G2 Mens Premium Leather Boat Shoes LeMieux Softshell Torch Cap Black Lighthouse Stockman Mens Full Length Waterproof Jacket Ariat Devon Axis Mens Paddock Boots Waxed Chocolate Aubrion Core Unisex Silicone Seat Waterproof Trousers Catago FIR-Tech Pro Back Brace Tommy Hilfiger Williamsburg Graphic Mens Hoodie Charles Owen Helmet Backpack Incrediwear Circulation Unisex Crew Socks Ariat Country Bolinas 1/2 Zip Mens Sweater Earth Sealskinz Filby Waterproof Heated Gauntlet Gloves Black Shop all Gifts for Him Still Stuck for Ideas?If youre not sure what to get that special someone, then give the gift of choice and treat them to one of our Redpost Gift Vouchers available from just 10. The post The Valentines Day Gift Guide first appeared on Redpost Equestrian Blog.

Key Points Details Historical Context Stirrups have evolved over two thousand years from ancient Asia, maintaining their fundamental design to aid balance and control. Traditional Stirrups Made from metal like stainless steel or brass, they are valued for reliability in disciplines like dressage, offering stability and a classic feel. Modern Safety Stirrups Incorporate materials like plastic and metal, with safety mechanisms like hinged sides or magnetic closures to prevent being dragged in a fall. Safety Features Safety stirrups offer quick-release mechanisms and flexible sides, enhancing safety in high-risk disciplines such as show jumping and eventing. Discipline-Specific Performance Choice between stirrups is influenced by disciplines - traditional stirrups for dressage; safety stirrups for eventing and show jumping. Comfort and Ergonomics Traditional stirrups have wider footbeds; safety stirrups focus on ergonomic designs that reduce joint stress and provide shock absorption. Market Trends Equestrian equipment market is growing, with a shift towards safety-centric products, encouraging innovation and diverse product lines. Conclusion Choosing between traditional and modern stirrups depends on needs, discipline, and comfort. Emphasis on proper fit and maintenance is crucial. Exploring the Debate: Are Traditional Stirrups Better Than Modern Innovations in Horse Riding?In the dynamic world of equestrian sports, the evolution of equipment plays a pivotal role in enhancing the riding experience. Among the many innovations, the debate between traditional stirrups and modern safety stirrups continues to pique the interest of riders and trainers alike. This blog delves into the nuances of both stirrup types, examining their historical significance, design attributes, safety features, and impacts on performance.Historical Context and Evolution of StirrupsStirrups have a storied history that dates back over two thousand years, originating in ancient Asia. Despite changes over time, their fundamental designa loop for holding the rider's feetremains. These modest tools are indispensable for ensuring balance and control in equestrian activities. Their evolution mirrors the changing demands of horse riders who seek a blend of tradition and technology to suit varied riding disciplines and preferences.Traditional Stirrups: Familiarity and DurabilityCrafted from metal components like stainless steel, aluminum, or brass, traditional stirrups boast a compact, enclosed structure paired with a flat or subtly curved footbed. These stirrups are treasured among seasoned riders who value their reliability and endurance. In disciplines such as dressage, traditional stirrups offer a classic feel that many equestrians prefer for their innate stability and nostalgic significance, enhancing their connection to longstanding riding traditions.Modern Safety Stirrups: Enhanced Safety and ComfortForged as a result of cutting-edge equestrian technology, modern safety stirrups incorporate a fusion of materials like metal, plastic, and rubber. They are equipped with ingenious release mechanisms such as hinged sides or magnetic closures. The ergonomic designs frequently feature angled footbeds and pliable materials that enable foot release in several directions. This groundbreaking design minimizes the risk of being dragged during a fall, positioning modern stirrups as a cornerstone of equestrian safety innovations. [source]Safety Features: A Critical ComparisonThe narrative surrounding modern safety stirrups primarily hinges on their enhanced safety mechanisms. While traditional stirrups may lack specific safeguards, potentially leading to accidents if a foot becomes trapped, safety stirrups are inherently engineered to prevent such scenarios. The incorporation of quick-release mechanisms and flexible sides is critical, particularly in disciplines like show jumping and eventing where fall risks are heightened. [source]Performance Analysis: Discipline-Specific ConsiderationsRiding disciplines greatly influence the choice between traditional and safety stirrups. Lets explore some: Show Jumping: Here, the reliability and familiarity of traditional stirrups are favored, yet safety stirrups provide an added layer of protection during intense landings, boosting both security and rider confidence. [source] Dressage: While traditional stirrups support the poise and elegance demanded by dressage, safety stirrups have made their mark with their comfortable fit and safety without impacting performance. [source] Eventing: Given the unpredictable landscapes and heightened fall risks, safety stirrups offer invaluable reassurance and security, making them essential for eventing. [source]Comfort and ErgonomicsComfort is a significant factor for riders, whether they choose traditional or safety stirrups. Traditional stirrups often possess wider footbeds for distributing weight evenly, meeting the needs of riders who prefer simplicity. Conversely, safety stirrups with ergonomic designs that ease joint stress and offer shock absorption are ideal for riders focusing on comfort and joint health during their equestrian pursuits. [source]Market Trends and Consumer PreferencesThe equestrian equipment market continues to grow, projected to reach around USD 3.2 billion by 2033 at a CAGR of 3.80%. This growth is fueled by advancements that align with consumer desires for gear that balances performance and safety with visual appeal, prompting manufacturers to innovate diverse product lines. Moreover, equestrian enthusiasts are increasingly opting for safety-centric products, showcasing a shift in consumer priorities. [source]Conclusion: Finding the Right BalanceThe ongoing debate between traditional and modern stirrups isn't settled easilyit's a decision driven by personal needs, discipline-specific requirements, and comfort. For those emphasizing safety, especially in high-risk disciplines, modern safety stirrups stand out. Meanwhile, traditionalists or individuals tied to specific disciplines may prioritize familiar stirrups for their steady, time-honored performance. Regardless of choice, emphasizing proper fit and routine maintenance will optimize safety and performance.As technology advances, we anticipate further innovations that harmonize traditional aesthetics and cutting-edge safety features. Ultimately, the best stirrup is the one that offers unwavering confidence and safeguards in your chosen riding discipline. For customized solutions, explore our Jodhpur Collection, Horse Riding Boot Collection, and Horse Riding Gloves Collection.Explore more from our comprehensive range of equestrian gear and supplements at Just Horse Riderswhere passion meets innovation! Your journey to finding the perfect stirrups and equestrian equipment is just a click away.```html```

Being an equestrian and a horse owner is a time-consuming and expensive lifestyle. Because of this, it can be easy to lose sight of the fact that riding, horse ownership, and your time at the barn is only one section of the fulfilling life that you lead. This is why goal setting is crucial as an equestrian.Table of ContentsToggleGet Started with Goal Setting by Gaining PerspectiveSetting Goals for Ownership and ShowingSetting Smaller Goals as an EquestrianPotential and ComparisonKey TakeawayPhoto by Shoshana RudksiBecause so much time, energy, and money is invested into these creatures we love, frustration may creep in when the reality of other life responsibilities interferes. Its important not to internalize these restraints and allow them to make you feel discouraged. Instead, you must recognize and include them as part of your goal setting in order to make your goals more attainable from the start.Get Started with Goal Setting by Gaining PerspectiveA helpful exercise that I use for horse owners and riders is to ask them to write down all the important sections of their life. Examples might be work, family, relationship, other pets, hobbies/sports outside of riding, et cetera. Oftentimes when you see how many things are on the page, you realize that there are quite a few people, animals, and other commitments vying for your attention.There are a lot more things than horses vying for your attention; this can help put your goals in perspective. Photo by Virgonira/Adobe StockThis is a great way to put it all in perspective. When youre at the barn, nailing those flying changes may feel like all that matters, but no matter how much you love riding, its just one piece of your much larger existence.Most things in life end up needing to be a compromise. You may want to participate in all of the shows on the local circuit, purchase a competitive horse for the division or class you want to show in, master the sitting trot, or ride the perfect pattern, but all of those things require an investment of some kind. You must be honest with yourself about what resources you have available.This situation also becomes difficult for the professionals guiding your equestrian journey. We never want to tell anyone they cant do something; good trainers will build you up and encourage you every step of the way. But its also our job to manage expectations when a client mentions goals that we know to be outside of their scope of resources.Setting Goals for Ownership and ShowingGoals can be set in any sector of equestrian sport. A common one is horse ownership. Other than buying a horse, there are many options available, including leasing, half-leasing, care leases, or riding school horses.Just as horse ownership causes you to compromise by allocating resources (i.e. time and money), choosing one of the other options may take less resources, but requires compromise on how many times you ride per week, how high you jump, what movements you school, et cetera. However, all of the above options will help you continue to grow as a rider.Other common goals center around showing. Rated horse shows can be extremely costly, plus paying your trainer and your own travel expenses.I find the best way to get the most out of show season isnt to only commit to one show at a time, but rather to present your trainer with a show budget for the year that is reasonable to you.From there, the two of you can brainstorm and put together a calendar of shows that fit your schedule, finances, and goals. This way you can also plan to use those shows to build to some sort of peak.Work with your trainer before the season begins to determine the best flow of competitions for your budget. Photo by Lynn Schwab/Adobe StockFor example, if you can afford six shows for the year, your trainer may decide it would be better to do a cluster of three in the spring and three in the fall so that you get into a rhythm rather than just showing once every other month. Its also important to mention that not every rider enjoys showing, and that is totally fine. No one should ever make you feel less than for that.Setting Smaller Goals as an EquestrianThe secret to equestrian goal setting is to use the time you have in the saddle to work on the basics that need brushing up. Rather than having a grandiose goal such as I want to show in X class, break down what would be needed to be successful in that class: A better sense of canter rhythm, tighter turns, cleaner lead changeswhatever it is, all of these things are achievable with basic exercises that can be done both inside and outside of a lesson.Instead of setting a goal of showing in X class, try a more controllable sub-goal, such as spending 15 minutes of each ride improving your basics. Photo by Proma/Adobe StockDedicating even 15 minutes of each ride to improving the basics you have targeted will result in reaching the next level. As your foundation builds and your basics and communication with your horse improve, more and more doors will open.From a sports psychology standpoint, achieving lots of smaller goals on the way to the larger goal will make the journey much more rewarding!Potential and ComparisonAnother common occurrence when setting goals is feeling Im not using my horse to his full potential. The horse has no idea if he was born with fantastic bloodlines, perfect conformation, or great aptitude for a certain discipline. The only thing he knows is whether he has food, water and shelter, and whether his handlers treat him kindly or roughly. Your horse doesnt understand the significance of Finals or the World Show, the difficulty level of the exercise at home or class at the show, the color of a ribbon, nor the concept of what could be. Equines are very lucky to live in the now, and we humans could learn a thing or two!Your horse doesnt know if hes living up to his potential, only whether he has food and water and if his handlers treat him kindly. Photo by Amanda/Adobe StockWhere do we as humans get these ideas of what we should be doing? Usually by looking around and comparing ourselves to friends, barn mates, and social media influencers. What they say about social media is true, though: people tend to only post the good.This is also the case for what people tend to allow others to see in real life. Generally, only a persons immediate family and closest friends will know about all of their fears, struggles, and hard work. The rest of the world tends to only see the very biggest failures and triumphs, and even those fade from the collective memory of society very quickly.Social media just happens to be a place where all the happy and colorful win photos are curated and posted, whether you as a viewer have had the best day or the worst day. However, what you dont know is what the other person gave up to be at the show, to buy the horse, or to finally be able to execute that upper-level movement.Its hard not to compare to the social media highlight reels of others, but you never know what someone gave up to get there. Photo by Skumer/Adobe StockThe person posting could have sold their car, missed important family events, cried driving home from the barn for six months after tough lessons, or endured injuries and layups for their horse. Just because those parts of the journey are kept quiet doesnt mean we dont all go through them.Key TakeawayOverall, as an equestrian, its crucial to set goals that fit into the big picture of your life. Riding is supposed to be fun, and our relationship with horses should bring joy. If the time we have at the barn is spent stressing or rushing, then something needs to be adjusted. Throughout all of it, take comfort from your horsey friends and your trainer to help guide you through this balancing act that is the equestrian experience.Keep in perspective that riding should be fun and horses are in your life to bring you joy. Photo by Dotana/Adobe StockThis article about equestrian goal setting appeared in the January/February 2024 issue of Horse Illustratedmagazine.Click here to subscribe!The post Equestrian Goal Setting appeared first on Horse Illustrated Magazine.

HSI will be hosting two Level 1 courses starting in January. Please read the terms of enrolment and entry requirement carefully. Terms of Enrolment Level 1 Entry Requirements Once applications are received and approved, a link to process payment will be sent. The fee must be paid in full to complete registration and to secure your place on the course. Course 1 Jan 21/22 Feb 11/12 Mar 11/12 Assessment 18thMarch Course 2 Jan 28/29 Feb 25/26 Mar 25/26 Assessment 15thApril Course Registration form: You will be required to upload proof of entry requirements with this application (prior qualifications, Certs, letters of recommendations, etc. please see attached) Please note the Full Course fee is required to confirm your place and this will be done on a first come first serve basis. Course FEE: 2100 Please note: Courses will be run subject to minimum required attendees. Full Course attendance is []

Section Key Points Introduction Horseback riding across Exmoor with Exmoor Ponies; Guide by Just Horse Riders. The Exmoor Pony: A Heritage Breed Endangered rare breed with fewer than 3,500 ponies worldwide; Conservation efforts revived the breed from near extinction. Trekking Options: Exmoor Pony Centre Offers experiences for all skill levels; Includes Taster Sessions and Trek The Moor. Trekking Options: Edinburgh University Exmoor Pony Trekking Section Student-led, non-profit organization; Open to novices and experts; Includes pony care pre- and post-trek. Irresistible Perks of Riding Exmoor Ponies Scenic Panoramas, Educational Endeavor, and Mind & Body Wellness through pony trekking. Preparing for Your Trek Observe weight limits (12 stone/76 kg), wear suitable riding apparel, and understand pony health and nutrition. Conclusion Riding Exmoor Ponies offers a unique adventure intertwined with conservation, history, and personal enrichment. The Adventure of Riding Exmoor Ponies: Exploring Trekking Options on ExmoorAh, the delightful allure of horseback riding across the rugged, yet serene landscapes of Exmoora treat for both the outdoor enthusiast and horse lover alike. Picture yourself riding one of Britain's oldest and rarest pony breeds across jammy-hued heather moors and velvety peat bogs while the wind tousles your hair. This article is your guide to experiencing this adventure with Just Horse Riders, from the history and conservation of the Exmoor ponies to practical trekking advice. Grab your saddle because youre in for an unforgettable ride. The Exmoor Pony: A Rarity on HoovesThe Exmoor pony stands out as an endangered rare breed, captivating horse lovers with its evolutionary roots and resilient nature. Steeped in heritage, the breed has managed a dramatic comeback from near extinction thanks to dedicated conservation efforts. With fewer than 3,500 ponies worldwide and just around 350 in their native Exmoor habitat, these ponies are a symbol of endurance and versatility. Trekking Options on ExmoorExmoor Pony Centre: All Levels WelcomeThe Exmoor Pony Centre throws open its stable doors to riders of varying proficiency. Whether you're a newbie figuring out which end of the horse to face or a seasoned pro, theres a pony trekking experience awaiting you. From easy Taster Sessions for the young and uninitiated aged 4 and up, to the challenging Trek The Moor for those with more saddle time under their belt, the center offers a diverse range of options tailored to suit everyone. Edinburgh University Exmoor Pony Trekking Section: A Student's QuestLooking for a quirky twist on your horse-riding adventures? Check out the Edinburgh University Exmoor Pony Trekking Section. This student-led, non-profit group goes off-road by leading you straight from the ponies field onto the hills. With a mission rooted in both community and conservation, it extends its hospitality to novices and experts alike while adding a personal touch with pre-and-post trek pony care.Irresistible Perks of Riding Exmoor PoniesScenic Panoramas: More Than Just Pretty ViewsExmoor is a natural kaleidoscope: moors sweep into mystical valleys, shadowy woodlands guard ancient ruins, and the symphony of nature permeates your journey. Trekking on a nimble-footed Exmoor pony grants you access to secretive spots that evade even the most adventurous hikers. Secure your seat for views that leave even the sturdiest Instagram filters feeling redundant! Learn While You Ride: An Educational EndeavorEquestrians and eco-friendly folks rejoice! Riding Exmoor ponies provides a rich tapestry of tales about their role in Britain's history, the ongoing conservation endeavors, and the need for continued awareness and support. This journey is as enlightening as it is exhilarating, with the beauty of the breed's history reinforcing its relevance.Mind and Body Wellness: Trotting TherapySpending a day horseback not only tones your muscles but unwinds the knots in your mind. The steady rhythm of a pony jaunt allows you to pause, breathe, and reconnect with naturethink equine mindfulness, if you will. Enjoy this venture with the knowledge that you and your pony contribute to each other's wellness.Preparing For Your Trek: Things To KnowObserve Weight Limits: Mind the ScaleEmulating feather-light grace is not just an outlook but a necessity before mounting an Exmoor pony. Most venues cap weight limits at 12 stone (76 kg), underscoring the importance of ponies welfare even as they trot you into blissful jaunts. Confirm specifics with your trek operator well ahead of your journey.Riding Apparel: Dress for the RideDeck yourself out in clothes that couple comfort with practicality. Proper riding gear, such as jodhpurs, boots, gloves, and helmets, not only ensure safety but also bring flair to your rustic escapades. Explore our Jodhpur Collection or browse Just Horse Riders' extensive range of Horseriding Boots, gloves, and more for your equestrian ensemble.Pony Health and Nutrition: Body and OatsThe diet of these noble creatures is vital to their health. Exmoor ponies thrive on a nutrient-rich menu that doesn't include commercial grains. Their dietary needs emphasize quality vitamins and minerals, safeguarding them against ailments like laminitis. Learn more about pony nutrition from sources like the Exmoor Pony Society.ConclusionSo, there you have it; the opportunity to ride across the Exmoor vistas on a pony is a gift that harmonizes adventure, beauty, and learning. Whether you're meandering through trails by the Exmoor Pony Centre or embarking on student-led treks, the experience is filled with enriching insights and outdoor joy. Embark on this journey and discover the beauty of riding Exmoor poniesan adventure cloaked in history and brimming with memories you'll treasure for a lifetime.

A man who failed to seek veterinary treatment for a large wound on his ponys neck has been banned from keeping equines for five years.Paul Hunter pleaded guilty to two offences under the Animal Welfare Act 2006 and was sentenced at Hull Magistrates Court on Friday 20 December.Alongside the ban,he was placed under a 12-month community order which requires him to undertake 15 Rehabilitation Activity Requirement (RAR) days and is required to pay court costs of 200 and a victim surcharge of 114.A concerned member of the public contacted the RSPCA to report a large neck wound on a piebald pony called Sonny who lived on wasteland close to Airlie Street in Hull.Makeshift dressingRSPCA Inspector Natalie Hill and Animal Rescue Officer (ARO) Liz Braidleyattended the site on 13 February 2024 and discovered Sonny with a makeshift dressing around his neck. Underneath the homemade dressing they found a large wound which was around 25cm long and 5cm deep.The pony was covered in a neck-high rug but I was unable to see his feet due to the thick soft mud, said Inspector Hill in a statement presented to the court.Through the metal fencing we found a makeshift bandage placed under the chest piece of the rug. On removing the dressing a large open wound was found at the base of the neck, which looked clean but was very large.Paul Hunter arrived at the field when the officers were present and confirmed he owned Sonny. He said he had noticed the wound four or five days previously and that it had been caused by a rug. He had bathed it in iodine. Mr Hunter told the officers Sonny was well fed, he isnt suffering hes just got a cut but admitted he hadnt sought veterinary treatment for the wound.A vet attended the scene and gave Sonny pain relief and a tetanus injection. Sonny was seized by the police and taken to an RSPCA boarding yard. Suffering for weeksA responsible owner would be expected to seek veterinary attention for such an injury, said the vet.Considering the depth of the wound and the amount of swelling present, Sonny is likely to have been suffering for a period of at least four weeks.Sonny was also in need of hoof care as his feet were overgrown and he was missing three shoes.In mitigation, Mr Hunter said he had tried his best to keep the wound free from infection. The court was told he suffers from physical ill health and depression following his wifes death.He didnt sign Sonny over to the RSPCA as he hoped the pony might be returned to him. The magistrates imposed a deprivation order to remove him from ownership.Sonny has since made a good recovery and his wound which was not caused deliberately has healed well. He will now be rehomed by the RSPCA.Images (c) RSPCA.Further readingHow to tell if a horse is happy7 common winter vet call outs and how to avoid them this seasonCan you read your horses body language?How to take care of a horseThe post Ban for man who left pony with gaping neck wound appeared first on Your Horse.

On December 31, a 12-year-old broodmare in Palm Beach County, Florida, tested positive for strangles. The mare developed clinical signs on December 30, including nasal discharge and fever. She is under quarantine.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.