Advertisement featureWhat does it take for received wisdom to be overturned and new approaches adopted? Revelatory research findings? Social demand for change?Both could actually result in a change to the way horses are fed today, as researchers find ways to feed and manage horses more sympathetically and sustainably.Evolutionary considerations for sympathetic feedingThe horse is a herbivore and as soon as we prevent them eating and accessing a natural diet as they have evolved to do, there are repercussions for their health and well-being.The increasing frequency with which gastric ulcers is being diagnosed may account for why the recommendations for the minimal amount of forage a horse requires has increased in recent years.Rendle et al. (2020) cite 1.5% of bodyweight on a dry matter basis, which is the level most equine nutritionists would advocate for the long-term health of the horse.The glandular region of the horses stomach contains glands that secrete acid continuously, as the horse is a trickle feeder and it is important to note that this process continues even when the horse isnt eating.This is why periods of more than six hours without access to forage are a risk factor for ulcers. The volume of secretion has been shown to be around 1.5 litres of gastric juice per hour, although this does vary at different times during the day.Consuming too little fibre and eating materials that are high in starch, means acidity levels increase in the stomach. This not only increases the risk of ulcers, but also changes the environment in the stomach sufficiently to impact the microbes that live there.Microbial dysbiosis in the stomach is increasingly being linked to an increased risk of gastric disease, particularly in the glandular region, which is now recognised as an inflammatory disease rather than an ulcerative one.Alfalfa as an energy source: the researchSo can fibre be fed to fuel performance? Researchers at the Lab to Field research centre in Dijon, France, believe so.In work funded by the French government and published in Frontiers in Physiology, they found that Standardbred horses in training fed a third of their total ration as alfalfa with just 7% oats, performed comparably with those fed 33% oats. (The remainder of the diet was hay.)The horses were monitored over an eight-week period rather than just in a one-off standardised exercise test (SET). The replacement of a significant proportion of oats with alfalfa had no detrimental effects on performance or muscle tone.In fact, alfalfa altered energy metabolism in such a way as to potentially improve performance and recovery according to the authors (Martin et al., 2023).Promoting gastric healthStudies back in the early 2000s (Nadeua et al, 2000; Lybbert et al, 2007) showed that alfalfa was more beneficial for horses with ulcers compared to grass forages because it helps counter the increased acidity that occurs when feeding cereals.The prevalence of gastric ulcers means it is an issue that needs to be addressed, especially when viewed in the context of equine welfare in sport.Two recent studies have again shown how alfalfa has a key role to play in this regard too. The Lab to Field research group demonstrated that clinical success with horses with EGGD was 47.7 times more likely in horses fed alfalfa pellets as part of their ration compared to those on concentrate only rations (Julliand et al., 2023).In addition, a study published in 2024 showed that a combination of alfalfa, sugar beet and cereal fibre fed alongside the existing ration, aided the reduction in recurrence of gastric ulcerswhen fed during the healing and post-medication periods.This is key for when gastric ulcer medication is stopped and the recognised rebound increase in acid production can occur (Menzies-Gow and Shurlock, 2024).Fibre qualityA key point from these studies is that the quality of fibre matters. Alfalfa and sugar beet both contain higher proportions of digestible fibre such as pectin and hemi-cellulose, rather than indigestible fibrous elements such as lignin.This means they arent sitting in the gut for so long, but they are being digested and utilised as an energy source.What is alfalfa?Alfalfa (Medicago sativa), also known as lucerne, has been cultivated as horse feed for over 2000 years. It originated from Iran before spreading across the world as Persians, Greeks and Romans expanded their empires, bringing their horses and their feed with them.Alfalfa is a legume and from the same plant family as peas, beans and clover. It has a deep root system that enables it to access water and minerals deep in the soil.In some cases, alfalfa roots can reach 4 or 5 metres deep, in comparison to grass and cereals which have roots of about 2-2.5m.Rich in calciumAlfalfas deep roots mean it can reach calcium which at this depth in the soil is more available for absorption. This means that alfalfa plants can take up more calcium than grass. In fact, chopped alfalfa contains between 30 and 50% more calcium than grass forages.This has real benefits forgastric healthas it is one of the qualities that means alfalfa is anatural buffer to acidityin the horses stomach.Early studies suggest that omeprazole the medication used to treat gastric ulcers is reducing calcium absorption in the horse as is seen in humans.Researchers are suggesting that bio-available calcium sources should be added to the diet to counteract this effect.TOP TIP!Feed a double handful of a choppedalfalfa-based fibre feedaround 20-25 minutes before you ride to help prevent acid splash in the non-glandular region of your horses stomach. The fibre makes sure the stomach isnt empty and suppresses the movement of the acidic contents when the horse moves.Feeding chopped fibre mattersThere are some fundamentals of feeding that stand the test of time and adding chopped fibre to a horses bucket feed is one of them.The following video explains why you should add chaff to your horses bucket feed:The benefits of increased chew time from adding a chopped fibre to the bucket feed has long been recognised, but what is often over-looked is that the amount of saliva produced when a horse chews is related to the amount of force the horse needs to apply (Vervuert, 2012).This means that more fibrous materials help to increase saliva production and therefore more natural buffering in the digestive tract than softer ones.Whilst mashes and pelleted fibres contribute fibre, they dont require as much chewing and so do not generate as much saliva.This phenomenon is supported by a very recent study that found unmolassed sugar beet pulp mash resulted in a greater drop in pH (increase in acidity) in the horses mouth than other feed materials including alfalfa and haylage. The authors suggest this could be related to the fact it requires less chewing (Daniels et al, 2024).Whilst the level of acidity returned to normal within 15 minutes and so doesnt represent a cause for concern in the context of dental health, it demonstrates the importance of chewing for saliva production, which has benefits further along the digestive tract.Energy without starchLike other plants, alfalfa makes sugar when photosynthesising but if it makes more sugar than it needs, it stores any surplus as starch in its roots and this is the part that horses dont eat!This is in contrast to grass, which stores sugar as water soluble carbohydrates such as fructan in stems and leaves.When oil is added as a coating to alfalfa horse feeds, sugar levels are typically less than 5% but the energy is high enough to support horses in moderate to hard work.Feeds are rarely, if ever, sugar free, as even straw contains some sugar which is why we use the phrase no added sugar to describe our lowest sugar feeds.Feeding Alfa-A OilCombining alfalfa with oil, such as inAlfa-A Oil, produces a feed with 12.5MJ DE per kg, which is equivalent to a conditioning mix but with 10 times less starch.The following video explains why this feed is ideal for equines prone to gastric ulcers:My horses have never felt betterAlfa-A Oil has been used for many years by top-level event rider Alex Bragg, who had a career best season in 2024, finishing third at Badminton and eighth at Burghley on the Roe familys beautiful mare Quindiva.Dengie Alfa-A Oil is an essential element of all of our horses diets, says Alex. Its combination of pure alfalfa and oil provides the ultimate blend of slow-release energy and helps them maintain condition.We know a healthy, happy horse can give 100% in both training and competition. My horses have never performed, looked or felt better.Alex Bragg and Quindiva at Defender Burghley Hannah Cole PhotographyIts a long-term feeding planLewis Robertson-Carrier is an international dressage rider and trainer. He was crowned British Dressage national champion riding Diego V in 2024.I have fed Dengie for as many years as I can remember, says Lewis.Ensuring the horses receive quality fibre tosupport gastric health has always been my priority,and Dengiefeeds offer just that.The slow-release energy that comes from the fibre suits my horses from the start of their careers right through to top international level, so all the horses are catered for with a long-term plan in place.Being BETA NOPS approved is also hugelyimportant and gives mepeace of mind that Dengie takescontamination and clean sport asseriously as we have to as athletes.Lewis Robertson-Carrier feeds alfalfa to his winning dressage horses. Credit: Daydream Equine Art PhotographyI wouldnt feed anything elseInternational dressage rider and trainer Hannah Esberger-Hancock says Alfa-A Oil is perfect for her dressage horses.The alfalfa fibre supports gastric health and Im confident that they are getting all the energy they need to perform at the top level, she explains.I wouldnt feed anything else.Hannah Esberger-Hancock swears by Dengie horse feeds for her Grand Prix dressage horse, Iggy Pop BEK, as well as her daughters poniesFor further information on feeding alfalfa or to speak to a qualified nutritionist call 01621 841188 or complete Dengies Feed Advice Form.Useful linksWhat is alfalfa?Benefits of feeding alfalfa to horsesAlfalfa can help to counteract gut acidityAlfalfa backed by researchThe Alfa-A feed rangeConfused by EGGD and ESGD? Learn more hereThe post Alfalfa has big benefits for gastric health, study confirms *Promotion* appeared first on Your Horse.

Senior horses gradually require additional care as they age. Whether its handling heat and humidity, flies, or changes in diet requirements and exercise, youll want to adjust your management to fit your old buddy.Photo by Abigail BoatwrightThis is particularly important should you bring your horse home for retirement, versus keeping him at a boarding stable. Weve gathered advice from a veterinarian and an equine retirement facility manager for tips to help you keep your elderly equine healthy, happy and comfortable in his twilight years.What is Considered a Senior Horse?In general, the bigger your horse, the sooner hell reach senior status, according to Julie Wilson, DVM, of Turner Wilson Equine Consulting in Minnesota and past president of the Equitarian Initiative, which provides philanthropic veterinary care for the working horses of the developing world. A horse can live to be in their 30s, but theyre considered senior at around age 20.Ponies dont seem to become senior until theyre in their early 20s, says Wilson. Whereas some of the bigger horses I think are in that senior category as they get into their late teens.A horses riding career can also determine how quickly they age. A horse who had a strenuous job with many hours of riding can show musculoskeletal signs of age sooner than a horse ridden more moderately.Deanna Chamberlin co-founded Shadowcreek Equine Retirement Ranch in Sanger, Texas, in 2011 along with her husband. The 73-acre facility only takes horses over age 20, providing end-of-life care for around 11 horses that are no longer being ridden.When a horse has reached 25 or 26, youre not really trying to get them to perform at what theyve enjoyed doing in their lifeyoure starting to move into the mindset of just allowing them to be what they are, and making sure theyre comfortable, says Chamberlin. Youre medicating them for conditions that need intervention for stability or comfort, but youre no longer trying to build them up.Age-Related ConcernsMuch like humans as we age, horses experience a gradual deterioration of their bodily systems, according to Wilson.The main issues that contribute to the eventual end-of-life decisions are related to your horses musculoskeletal system. Arthritis is often the sign that appears soonest.Arthritis, in particular, can reach the point where its hard to manage to make the horse comfortable, says Wilson. Joint injections or phenylbutazone [bute] get to where they arent worthwhile anymore. Although other medications and supplements are available, this is the time when many horse owners may want to begin considering end-of-life decisions.Endocrine issues, such as Cushings disease and equine metabolic syndrome, can necessitate retirement from riding or even euthanasia if youre no longer able to effectively manage the symptoms.Your horses immune system can become less capable, especially if your horse also has a disease like Cushings, says Wilson. This can lead to your horse contracting infectious diseases and viruses more easily, such as strangles, herpes or encephalitiseven if hes vaccinated.Dental issues can contribute to less efficient consumption of nutrients, injuries, and other problems. Luckily, good dental care and an appropriate senior diet can reduce these complications. Your senior horse may also pass more whole grains into his manure, so switching to a senior feed can help him maintain his weight by providing more readily available nutrients.Dental issues can lead to less efficient digestion, so regular dental exams are important, and possibly a change in diet. Photo courtesy Deanna ChamberlinDigestive issues like fecal water syndrome can dehydrate your senior horse and cause other problems, according to Wilson.Sometimes these senior horses start to have a lot of water passed along with their manure, which may or may not start to soften, and it makes a mess of their hindquarters because it drips down the back of their legs, she says. This creates a management issue trying to keep them clean.Colic is a concern in older horses, especially when its a result of fatty tumors, such as lipomas.If an old horse presents with colic, fatty tumors would be higher on the list of causes than if they were younger, says Wilson.A loss of muscle tone and body structure also occurs. This can mean changes in the way your saddle fits, and Chamberlin says this change in appearance can be disconcerting to owners.Part of the natural decline in a body is that it tends to not be as muscular, showing more ribs, she says. Youre not going to see the same body structure as you would on a 10-year-old. You want to make sure your horse has everything but let him evolve as his body needs to.A loss of muscle tone and structure frequently accompanies the aging process, making the topline and ribs more prominent. Photo by Mani/Adobe StockCare and Management of the Senior HorseA senior horse needs conscientious care to enjoy his best retirement years, according to Wilson. Here are some ways to best care for your elderly partner.Routine Medical Care for the Senior HorseDont simply turn your horse out to pasture and forget about him, she says.Yearly exams are still really important, and you need to have an increased awareness that these issues are likely to crop up, says Wilson. [Senior horses] still need to be vaccinated and dewormed.Consider your horses lifestyle. Will he be around horses going to shows, or ever-rotating boarded horses? That may mean he needs to receive the full slate of recommended vaccines. But if hes in a pasture where he doesnt contact horses who travel, he may not.We may want to review [a senior horses] vaccination schedule and drop some of the ones for diseases hes unlikely to get exposed to, she says.Deworming is still very important, even if your horse lives a relatively isolated lifestyle, according to Wilson.Particularly as their immune systems wane, deworming still needs to happen, she says. The usual advice of monitoring fecal egg counts and pasture management for parasites are all important.Your horses teeth need to be checked at least annually, and sometimes twice a year, says Wilson.They will begin to lose teeth and have uneven wear, she says. One of the more common issues in this age group is equine odontoclastic tooth resorption and hypercementosis [EOTRH], a disease that primarily affects the incisors, and some pretty drastic care may be needed.Check Saddle FitIf your horse is still being ridden, you need to pay careful attention to the way the saddle fits.Some [senior horses] will get swaybacked, and then they really need some attention to saddle fit, Wilson says.Pay Attention to Herd DynamicsWhen a horse is elderly, you dont want him to have to fight for hierarchy in the herd out in the pasture, according to Chamberlin.You dont want him to be with 10- and 12-year-old horses that are trying to prove themselves or move the herd around, she says. You want him to be with other horses similar in age, who fit well together temperament-wise.Matching up horses so herd dynamics dont result in bullying or injuries becomes especially important the older a horse gets. Photo courtesy Deanna ChamberlinAdjust Your Senior Horses DietWhen your horse stops working due to retirement, youll want to adjust his diet, since his caloric needs will go down.That may mean dialing back on the amount of grain or concentrate hes getting, says Wilson. Most of the time, hell still need that hay or grazing to maintain his body weight.Caloric needs of senior horses go down when their riding days end, but healthy forage and a balanced diet are as important as ever. Photo by JackF/Adobe StockIf you do reduce or eliminate concentrate, consider adding a ration balancer to make sure your equine senior is getting enough protein, vitamins and minerals. Wilson says not making these adjustments can contribute to the horse becoming overweight and possible metabolic syndrome.However, keeping weight on an older horse is often the bigger challenge. You dont automatically need to switch to a senior diet, but it can be helpful in some situations.Watch [your seniors] weight carefully, and depending on how well hes eating, you can decide if you need to add an equine senior concentrate and still want to feed hay, Julie says. If hes really not handling hay well anymore due to dental problems or bad absorption in the gut, you might consider putting him completely on senior feed [one containing fiber and meant to be fed as a complete diet] or a forage that is easier to eat, such as soaked hay cubes.Watch for Health ConcernsIf your horse starts showing signs of Cushings disease, such as late shedding and a shaggy hair coat, of course youll have your vet test for the disease. But Wilson says that your horses veterinarian may recommend testing senior horses more routinely to get a jump on it.Watch for signs of Cushings disease, such as a coat that doesnt shed out in spring. Your veterinarian should test your older horse at the earliest signs to allow for treatment. Photo courtesy Deanna ChamberlinIt is manageable with treatment, she says.Youll also want to visually check your horses body regularly for issues such as melanomas and tumors, particularly on gray horses. Horses with white markings on their face and/or sheath may develop scabby areas that progress to squamous cell carcinoma, which warrants treatment as soon as possible.Back to NatureYour horse may enjoy going barefoot, although he should still get regular trims. Most will acclimate to being outdoors with appropriate shelter in all but the most extreme weather, according to Chamberlin. This allows for movement, which helps circulation, stiff joints and muscles.We want [our senior horses] to be out as much as possible[preferably] 24/7, unless its really inclement weather, Chamberlin says. We bring in horses when theres ice on the ground because we dont want them slipping and falling. But for most of the year, theyre out a lot.Pasture shelters should be provided, and blanketing during turnout may be essential in northern states with freezing weather.When the Time ComesUltimately, all horses will reach the end of their livesoften sooner than wed like. Chamberlin recommends looking for a place to keep your horse where he wont need to be moved much as he ages.By the time a horse is in his mid to late 20s, trailering around a lot and moving him can be a concern, she says. Its hard on a horse. You need to find a place where youll be OK with him staying until the end.Before your horses final day is upon you, Wilson recommends planning with your vet ahead of time for euthanasia and/or disposal of your horses body. Laws in your area may prevent burial on your property, so you need to research what options are available.Chamberlin says having a support person can help you figure out when you need to make the final decision about your horses care.You dont ever want him to suffer, but you want him to live a life as full as possible, she says. For some people, that end is a little easier to see than others. I always encourage people to have another person that can look at your horse and say, I think it may be time. Dont be afraid of that, because modern veterinary care at the end of life really does provide a merciful way to say goodbye. It can be scary, but at the same time, its such a gift that we can make things comfortable for an animal so its not a traumatic end.Key TakeawayAfter everything theyve given us, older horses deserve some extra TLC in their golden days. While senior horses may require extra care and attention to detail, it is well worth watching them continue to thrive.This article about senior horse care appeared in the October 2023 issue of Horse Illustratedmagazine.Click here to subscribe!The post Senior Horse Care 101 appeared first on Horse Illustrated Magazine.

A local man has been charged following a road traffic collision in the West Country which resulted in a young girl being airlifted to hospital and a horse being put down on the road.Christopher Rogers, who is aged 61 and from Launceston in Cornwall, has been charged with driving without due care, driving while disqualified, driving without insurance, failing to stop after a road accident and criminal damage following the incident which took place on Sunday 12 January.According to a police statement, Rogers, who was driving a white Ford Transit van, collided with a girl riding a horse in Higher Treween, Altarnun near Launceston around 2.20pm on Sunday afternoon.Police have charged a man in connection to a road traffic collision at Altarnun, near Launceston, involving a van and horse on Sunday 12 January, said the statement, which Your Horse received from Devon and Cornwall Police.Victim released from hospitalThe rider of the horse, an eight-year-old child, was airlifted to hospital but has since been discharged as her injuries were not as serious as first thought, continued the statement.The horse had to be humanely put to sleep by vets at the scene.A 12-year-old girl who was leading the horse was uninjured in the collision.The road was closed while investigations took place and reopened around 4.15pm on Sunday afternoon.Mr Rogers has been released on bail and is due to appear before Bodmin Magistrates Court on Friday 7 February.Related contentMale driver who didnt stop after hitting horse on the road is convicted in courtOperation Snap: how and why more horse riders need to use itHow horse riders can work together to improve road safety8 ways to motivate yourself to go hacking in winter and why its good for youWhat is #Hack1000Miles? *VIDEO*The post Van driver charged after crashing into and injuring eight-year-old rider and killing her horse appeared first on Your Horse.

A local man has been charged following a road traffic collision in the West Country which resulted in a young girl being airlifted to hospital and a horse being put down on the road.Christopher Rogers, who is aged 61 and from Launceston in Cornwall, has been charged with driving without due care, driving while disqualified, driving without insurance, failing to stop after a road accident and criminal damage following the incident which took place on Sunday 12 January.According to a police statement, Rogers, who was driving a white Ford Transit van, collided with a girl riding a horse in Higher Treween, Altarnun near Launceston around 2.20pm on Sunday afternoon.Police have charged a man in connection to a road traffic collision at Altarnun, near Launceston, involving a van and horse on Sunday 12 January, said the statement, which Your Horse received from Devon and Cornwall Police.Victim released from hospitalThe rider of the horse, an eight-year-old child, was airlifted to hospital but has since been discharged as her injuries were not as serious as first thought, continued the statement.The horse had to be humanely put to sleep by vets at the scene.A 12-year-old girl who was leading the horse was uninjured in the collision.The road was closed while investigations took place and reopened around 4.15pm on Sunday afternoon.Mr Rogers has been released on bail and is due to appear before Bodmin Magistrates Court on Friday 7 February.Related contentMale driver who didnt stop after hitting horse on the road is convicted in courtOperation Snap: how and why more horse riders need to use itHow horse riders can work together to improve road safety8 ways to motivate yourself to go hacking in winter and why its good for youWhat is #Hack1000Miles? *VIDEO*The post Van driver charged after collision injures eight-year-old rider and results in death of horse appeared first on Your Horse.

Taking place Sunday 9th February in McKee Barracks (D07 A065). Registration opens at 9:30am. The day will run from 10am to 4pm. This event is open to everyone and is free of charge. The day will consist of stable and arena discussions so please bring warm clothing and a packed lunch/refreshments. What will be discussed Warmup Procedures, Testing, Equipment, The FEI Noseband Device Other Topics Please complete the form linked below to confirm your attendance to ensure access to the Barracks. Click Here to Confirm Your Attendance

Have you checked out the new-and-improved Sport Horse Nation lately? ENs longtime classifieds sister site recently received a big makeover to help make it the best eventers-only matchmaking service in the land. 280 listings are...

Key Points Description Importance of Equine Posture Reflects the horse's musculoskeletal health and comfort. Good Posture Indicators Legs vertical, strong abdominal line, straight back, natural neck and head alignment. Poor Posture Indicators Canted-in legs, weak slumping, hollow back, tilted pelvis. Health Implications Poor posture can cause musculoskeletal problems, dental and hoof issues, increased energy expenditure. Assessing Posture Use visual inspection, photographic comparison, and professional evaluation to assess horse's posture. Improving Posture Involves correct training, regular exercise, and proper care. Is Your Horse's Stance a Cause for Concern? Understanding Equine Postures and Health Implications When it comes to the health and well-being of your horse, one often overlooked but crucial aspect is their posture. A horse's stance can reveal a significant amount about their overall health, comfort, and potential underlying issues. In this blog, we will delve into the importance of equine posture, how to assess it, and the health implications associated with different stances. Why Equine Posture Matters Equine posture is more than just aesthetics; it is a reflection of the horse's musculoskeletal health and comfort. Horses spend most of their time standing, and their posture during this time can have long-term effects on their body. According to Dr. Karen Gellman, a veterinarian with a doctorate in animal locomotion biomechanics, "Standing is the horses most prevalent activity," and yet, it is often overlooked in favor of assessing their locomotion. [Source] Identifying Good and Poor Posture Good Posture A horse with good posture typically exhibits a balanced and symmetrical stance. Here are some key indicators: Legs: The legs should be vertical to the ground, with each limb positioned evenly under the body. Abdominal Line: A strong and lifted abdominal line indicates good core strength and posture. Back: The back should be straight and not hollow or sagging. Neck and Head: The neck should be neither too high nor too low, maintaining a natural alignment. [Source] Poor Posture Poor posture in horses can manifest in several ways, each potentially indicating different health issues: Canted-In Posture: When a horse stands with its legs canted-in under its body, it can be associated with chronic or recurrent lameness issues, such as navicular syndrome, suspensory strains, hock arthritis, and back pain. Weak Slumping Posture: A sagging abdominal line, weak back, and limbs that are either too far under or too far out from the body can indicate poor core strength and potential musculoskeletal problems. [Source] Hollow Back: A hollow back or a high head and neck carriage can suggest discomfort or pain in the back or neck area. Pelvis Tilt: A pelvis tilted too far forward or backward can affect the horse's balance and put undue stress on the joints. [Source] Health Implications of Poor Posture Poor posture in horses is not just a cosmetic issue; it can have serious health implications. Musculoskeletal Problems Horses with poor posture are more likely to develop musculoskeletal problems such as: Degenerative Joint Disease: Leading to osteoarthritis or lameness. Muscle Atrophy: Weakness in the top line muscles. Back Pain: Resulting from a hollow back or uneven muscle build-up. [Source] Dental and Hoof Issues Research has shown that a canted-in posture is closely associated with dental malocclusion and distorted morphology of hoof capsules. These issues can send distorted proprioceptive signals to the postural control centers of the brain, further exacerbating the poor posture. Energy Expenditure and Stability A horse standing in a canted-in posture expends twice the amount of neuromuscular effort compared to one standing square. This increased energy expenditure can lead to fatigue and reduce the horse's overall performance and comfort. [Source] Assessing Your Horse's Posture Assessing your horse's posture regularly is a valuable skill that can help you identify potential health issues early. Visual Inspection: Step back and observe your horse's stance, both standing still and in movement. Look for the indicators of good and poor posture mentioned above. Photographic Comparison: Use photos of your horse in different stances to compare and monitor changes over time. Professional Evaluation: If you are unsure or notice any signs of poor posture, consult with a veterinarian or an equine physiotherapist who can provide a detailed assessment and recommendations for improvement. Improving Your Horse's Posture Improving your horse's posture involves a combination of proper training, care, and management. Correct Training: Ensure that your horse is trained using methods that do not compromise their musculoskeletal health. Avoid training systems that lead to compensatory postures. Regular Exercise: Engage your horse in exercises that promote strength, flexibility, and balance. For example, strength and straightness training programs can help improve posture and overall musculoskeletal health. [Source] Proper Care: Regularly check and maintain your horse's dental health and hoof condition to prevent issues that can affect their posture. Conclusion A horse's stance is more than just a reflection of their immediate comfort; it is a window into their overall health and well-being. By understanding the signs of good and poor posture, regularly assessing your horse's stance, and taking proactive steps to improve it, you can help prevent a range of health issues and ensure your horse remains healthy and comfortable. For more detailed guidance on assessing and improving your horse's posture, consider consulting resources from equine health experts and joining training programs focused on strength and straightness.```html```

14.01.2025 Niels Bruynseels (BEL) and Delux van T&L at the Longines League of Nations™ 2024 - Ocala USA © FEI/Richard Juilliart Belgium has officially secured its place in the Longines League of Nations™ 2025 series, finishing sixth in the 2024 rankings with 12,128 points, just shy of Germany’s 12,311. With a legacy of success and a dynamic team of athletes and...

A good introduction to exercise for the new foal is to begin by putting it and its dam out with one or two more mares and their foals. | Photo: iStockQ.When do I start my foal on an exercise program? My show jumper just gave birth to a foal a couple of weeks ago, and I want to give him every advantage possible since I have plans for him to be my next jumper. What type of exercise should I start him with, and when?A.An exercise program designed to build muscle mass is not recommended for the first year because the skeletal system of the foal is just not ready to handle a huge amount of muscle. It is still developing. If you put too much muscle on this immature framework, problems like arthritis, flexural deformities, and angular limb deformities can occur. These are all results of too much muscle mass on a skeletal system that is not yet ready to handle it. The best way to avoid these problems is to avoid a rigorous exercise program until the foal matures past a year old.Halter-breaking and some (ground work with) foals is not bad; it will help the foal learn some manners. Its the rigorous exercise program that causes problems.It is important that the newborn foal gets exercise, but at its own pace. The foal will benefit from the fresh air of being outside, which will reduce its chances of contracting a respiratory infection. Studies have shown that stallbound foals are affected by the ammonia content in the air. The musculoskeletal system in terms of bones, muscles, and cartilage also will benefit from the exercise the foal gets when it is turned out.A good introduction to exercise for the new foal is to begin by putting it and its dam out with one or two more mares and their foals. This should begin one to two days after birth, gradually increasing the time spent outside each day. By two weeks of age the foal should be able to spend up to a full day in the field. Only place mares and foals together that are compatiblesome mares are not compatible with others foals.Something else to keep in mind, depending on where you live, is the climate. Very young foals in cold climates should be turned out for short periods at a time so they can become acclimated to the cold. Or, if you are in a warm climate, sunburn is a concern that needs to be dealt with when managing the foals time outside.While the benefits outweigh the risks of normal exercise, there are some potential problems to watch out for. First, you should make sure the foal does not over-indulge in exercise. Many dams, especially younger ones, have the tendency to run at full speed in the field, and their foals have trouble keeping up. Dams with this behavior should be turned out in smaller pens so their foals can keep up with them without overdoing it.Pay attention to physical dangers like holes in the field, downed branches, bad boards on fences, etc. Any of these can spell disaster for the young foal, so precautions should be taken. It is a good idea to inspect the field in which the foals will be turned out in order to minimize the risks.Once the foal is weaned from the mare, it can be turned out with other foals around the same age. It is important to keep foals grouped by age, and also by sex, as they reach yearling age. Age grouping is important because if you put older foals with younger ones, then the younger ones will have a hard time keeping up with the older foals. The older foals also might show some aggression toward the younger ones. Grouping by sex is to keep the more aggressive colts away from the fillies. Colts tend to become a little aggressive as they approach yearling age.Some signs that indicate the foal is getting too much exercise include lameness and changes in the conformation of the legs, which might be angular limb deformities, or flexural deformities that makes the foal look calf-kneed or buck-kneed. These problems are the result of a combination of growing too fast and too much exercise. The foals which show these deformities need analgesics and controlled exercise.Exercise is definitely good for foals, but foals have very plastic bones at early ages and that should be taken into consideration. Controlled exercise is the key.