Avoid cutting hay when rain and bad weather is imminent. | Alayne BlickleSome horse owners have land that doubles as pasture for their horses and hay fields that they cut and bale one or more times each year. Many of these properties range from 3 or 4 to 20 acres and provide just enough hay for resident animals to eat year-round.On our 10-acre horse property in Southwestern Idaho, we have a 6-acre grass pasture that we cut two to three times each summer. After 13 years of following this protocol, this year we ran into a problemwe realized (after stacking it in the hay barn) that some of our bales were damp. Storing damp hay for many months increases the risk for fire in your barn and mold growth, so we purchased a moisture meter to test the bales and determine which were safe to store and which should be fed immediately.Why Should I Use a Moisture Meter for Hay?Landowners should invest in a moisture meter (which costs about $300) and learn how to use it, says Glenn Shewmaker, PhD, a professor emeritus with University of Idaho Extension and a forage specialist based in Kimberly.Second-cutting grass is immature and soft, so its naturally higher in moisture and, as the weather cools down in the fall, the moisture levels in the soil are higher, he adds. Hay (thats been cut and is drying on the ground) gains moisture during the night because of cooling temperatures on the ground surface. Moisture rises from soil (and condenses on the cold hay), keeping the bottom of the windrow (a long line of cut hay) moist. This makes it challenging to properly dry hay in the autumn months.The moisture meter probe is inserted into the center of each bale. We tested several spots in each bale. | Alayne BlickleMoisture meters are geared toward alfalfa, which is stemmier than grass, but they still work well for grass hay, says Shewmaker. Readings will help you understand the amount of moisture in your windrow or your baled hay and if it is safe to store.How to Use a Moisture Meter to Test HayWhen getting ready to bale your hay, test its moisture levels while drying in windrows using this technique: Take a sample of the (drying) hay and stuff it into a 2-foot length of 4-inch diameter PVC pipe, says Shewmaker. Pack it (in tightly) by pressing a 3-inch diameter PVC pipe with end caps into the tube with the hay. This will simulate the density of baled hay for which the moisture probe is calibrated. Test the compacted hay in the tube by inserting the hay probe into the center of the sample.The moisture meter reading on the hay probe should be below 18% for two-string bales, he adds. Repeat the process 12 to 20 times in different parts of the of the field to determine the average moisture levels of your hay. If you notice several readings of at least 20%, leave the hay out to dry longer.It doesnt matter if its alfalfa or grass, follow directions that come with hay tester, says Steven Hines, MS, extension specialist at the University of Idaho, in Moscow. The moisture meter needs to be in tight contact with the plant material to get an accurate reading, so be sure youve compacted the hay sufficiently.Best Management Practices for Drying HayIt is your responsibility as a landowner to ensure your hay is dried appropriately before baling and storing it. To help you end up with good, dry hay, Hines suggests these basic management rules:Never cut your grass and drop hay onto wet ground; if soil is wet, the dry plant material will wick moisture from it.To help your hay dry, ask the swather operator to lift the swather deck up a few inches (not cutting the grass as short and leaving several inches) so the plant stems will prop up the windrow a bit and help it dry. Whats left on the plant will go into your next cutting.Try not to cut hay when bad weather (i.e., rain) is imminent.Bale grass during the day after any dew has burned off.Pay attention to microclimates within your field. If you have a field on a slope, heavy dew will collect toward the bottom; be sure to check moisture levels where dew settles. The same is true for hay cut near an irrigation ditch, pond, or other body of water.Check that the hay is distributed evenly after it has been cut and formed into windrows. If there are big, deep areas, such as where the swather stopped, spread them out by hand. Ask the swather operator to lay the windrows as wide as possible.Test hay in windrows before baling using the moisture meter method described above. Hines recommends a moisture level below 20% for small bales, but he says 15% is safest.Pay attention to the weight of your bales when stacking them. A heavy bale can indicate its moisture level might be too high.Take-Home MessageWhen we found the damp bales this fall, using a moisture meter helped us determine that 10% of that hay cutting was baled too damp. We stored the 90% that was under 15% moisture, then fed the rest immediately, to avoid firewhich could have taken our entire hay store, the storage building, and anything else in itand mold growth.Growing and baling your hay can be a challenging task, but ensuring your hay is safe to bale is crucial in preventing barn fires and moldy hay. A moisture meter can help you make an informed decision when determining when to bale your hay.When purchasing a moisture meter, be sure to look at reviews online and recognize that anything of quality is going to cost some money, says Hines.

In-form Denis Lynch and his brilliant 12-year-old Vistogrand have placed second at the CSI5*-W Longines FEI Jumping World Cup presented by EuroParcs. After a scintillating afternoon of jumping in Amsterdam, the combination followed up on their runner-up finish in last nights Grand Prix and produced another awesome double clear this afternoon. With just six of the 40 combinations qualifying for the jump-off, Lynch and Vistogrand were second fastest in round two, just 0.69 seconds behind winners Marc Houtzager and Derrehofs Dante. Course builder Quintin Maertens first round track wasnt, on paper, the biggest, but his use of strategically placed oxers and lines proved a genius piece of course building, producing a thought-provoking track that only six of the 40 could master despite a lenient time allowed. Home rider Jur Vrieling worked a bit magic, giving his new partner Helwell du Chabus an accurate ride to produce the first clear of []

Ocala, FL The cold spell finally gave way to sunshine in Central Florida on Sunday, creating the perfect backdrop for an afternoon of top-tier competition at World Equestrian Center Ocala. Nineteen horse-and-rider combinations stepped into the Grand Arena to contest the $40,000 Barnwalkers Grand Prix, where Hunter Holloway (USA) and Over The Top Stables, LLCs Noortje VD Windheuvel (Farfelu De Muze xKannan) claimed[...]Read MoreThe post Hunter Holloway and Noortje VD Windheuvel Top the $40,000 Barnwalkers Grand Prix appeared first on World Equestrian Center.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Lauren Nicholson Eventing (@laurenkieffereventing) Theres much to learn when it comes to caring for horses, and were fortunate to have groups like the USEA Grooms Association,...

A new programme for ex-racehorses aims to ensure off-the-track Thoroughbreds live a rewarding life after they retire from racing.The Thoroughbred Aftercare Programme (TAP) was launched by The Howden Way at Ascot Racecourse in December and aims to help the thousands of racehorses who retire from the track each year to successfully transition into a new career.TAP provides information, advice and tips from industry experts, vets, trainers and elite event riders via a range of online resources and videos as well as subsidised regional training opportunities.The initiative is funded by David Howden, CEO and founder of Howden and president of Cornbury House Horse Trials, and is partnered by equestrian specialists Harry Hall.Our objective at TAP is to assist the successful transition of ex-racehorses to their new careers post racing, said Justine Parker, programme director at The Howden Way.Working alongside Harry Hall will be extremely beneficial for us not only in terms of raising awareness of the programme but also in assisting with the sustainability and growth plans that we are committed to delivering.Member benefitsAs part of its partnership, Harry Hall will offer members of The Howden Way a 90% discount on its One Club bronze membership as well as discounts in the online shop, exclusive member benefits and early sales access.Were thrilled to partner with the Thoroughbred Aftercare Programme, which represents a fantastic initiative in supporting the transition of racehorses to their second careers, said Harry Hall CEO Liz Hopper.The comprehensive nature of TAP, from expert coaching to welfare support, aligns perfectly with our mission to serve the equestrian community and help play a vital role in supporting riders who take on an ex-racehorse.We look forward to supporting the programme in every way that we can to not only meet, but exceed, its objectives.Click here to find out more aboutThe Howden Way Thoroughbred Aftercare Programme.Main image The Howden Way Thoroughbred Aftercare Programme (TAP).Further readingSwap birch for padded hurdles in interest of racehorse welfare, say researchersNew scheme will provide expert tuition to riders on former racehorsesNew mum rides to glory in SEIB Racehorse to Riding Horse final at HOYSRiding on the gallops: expert advice to suit every type of horseUse this fitness plan to prepare your horse for the season aheadThe post New scheme offers training and support for ex-racehorses transitioning into second career appeared first on Your Horse.

Aspect Key Points The Pros of Dectomax for Horses Efficacy Against Mites: Effective in reducing mite populations and provides systemic treatment. Convenience: Eliminates the need for feather clipping. Broad-Spectrum Activity: Treats various parasites, including gastrointestinal roundworms and lice. The Cons of Dectomax for Horses Off-Label Use Concerns: Not specifically approved for horses, raising safety and efficacy concerns. Cost and Availability: Expensive, particularly for single horse owners. Incomplete Efficacy: Does not always guarantee total mite eradication. Resistance Development: Potential for resistance among parasite populations. Treatment Protocol Administer two doses spaced 10-14 days apart, subcutaneously or intramuscularly at 0.3 mg/kg. Consultation with a veterinarian is advised. Conclusion Dectomax provides systemic relief and convenience but has limitations. A comprehensive parasite control strategy and professional veterinary consultation are recommended for overall equine health. The Pros and Cons of Using Dectomax Injections for Treating Mites in Horses The battle against skin ailments in horses is akin to a game of chess with naturealways strategizing and outsmarting. Feather mites are diligent adversaries, particularly targeting horses like Shires and Clydesdales with longer feathers. Today, we explore a popular remedy, Dectomax injections, outlining both their potential and pitfalls. Understanding Dectomax Dectomax, primarily used for cattle and swine, is a broad-spectrum parasiticide formulated as a 1% injectable solution with doramectin. Although not specifically approved for horses, its off-label use for treating feather mites is driven by the promise of efficacy. The Pros of Dectomax for Horses Efficacy Against Mites A key benefit of using Dectomax is its effectiveness in reducing mite populations, offering relief from discomfort and behavioral improvements in horses suffering from infestations. It is particularly beneficial in providing systemic treatment without the hassle of continuous topical applications. Convenience Dectomax eliminates the need for feather clipping, an often stressful experience for both horse and handler. This systemic approach eases the treatment process, offering a significant time-saving advantage. Broad-Spectrum Activity Its ability to treat various parasites besides mites, adds to Dectomaxs appeal. From gastrointestinal roundworms to lice, its versatility makes it a potentially valuable addition to a broader equine parasite management strategy. The Cons of Dectomax for Horses Off-Label Use Concerns One significant drawback is its off-label status in equine use. This brings safety and efficacy concerns that horse owners and veterinarians must weigh before opting for Dectomax. Cost and Availability Coming in large 500 mL bottles, Dectomax can be expensive, especially for single horse owners. Resourcefulness in purchasing or sharing among fellow horse enthusiasts might be necessary to make it an economical choice. Incomplete Efficacy While effective, Dectomax does not always guarantee total mite eradication, which might necessitate considering complementary treatments or integrating comprehensive management strategies to maintain horse health. Resistance Development The potential for resistance among parasite populations is a critical consideration. Overuse or misuse can lead to diminished efficacy, emphasizing the importance of responsible administration and veterinary guidance. Treatment Protocol When treating feather mites with Dectomax, a typical protocol includes administering two doses spaced 10-14 days apart. Each dose is given subcutaneously or intramuscularly at a recommended rate of 0.3 mg/kg. Always consult with a veterinarian to tailor the treatment to suit individual horse conditions and needs. The Role of Horse Riding Gear in Equine Health Equine health and comfort extend beyond just treating ailments. The correct riding gear can significantly influence a horse's well-being. Browse the Jodhpur Collection or the Horse Riding Boot Collection for high-quality attire. Enhancing Equestrian Experience with the Right Apparel For all your riding apparel needs, consider exploring our diverse collection of Horse Riding Gloves and Socks. Proper fitting gear not only enhances control but adds to the rider's comfort too. Conclusion In the quest to mitigate feather mite infestations in horses, Dectomax emerges as a possible yet imperfect ally. Weigh its systemic relief and convenience against limitations like incomplete efficacy and cost. Remember, a comprehensive parasite control strategy, as well as consulting with a professional veterinarian, is crucial for overall equine health. Check out our offerings of Horse Treats and Gifts and Everyday Horse Supplements to keep your horse happy and healthy.```html```

Our horses and ponies come in a huge array of shapes and sizes, so their rugs must do too. An iconic name within the equestrian industry, Horseware Rugs heads up five brands with rugs to suit every horses needs.With such a wide variety of Horseware rugs available, it can be hard to know where to begin, so weve covered everything you need to know about Horsewares rug ranges and their features, so you can be confident in your choice.In this Horseware Rugs guide:Discover the Rambo Rug rangeWhat are Rhino Rugs?All about Amigo rugsKey features of Horseware RugsRamboFounded in 1985 by Tom and Carol Macguinness, Horseware revolutionised the design, fit and quality of horse rugs with their now famous Rambo rugs. With their premium materials, thoughtful features and exceptional durability, Rambo rugs are recognised by equestrians worldwide. Read on to take a look at some standout styles in the Rambo range.Rambo Optimo TurnoutRambo Stable RugRambo Duo Force 2.0Rambo OptimoThe unique Rambo Optimo rugs feature Horsewares innovative Split Technology to allow your horse total freedom of movement. This design features a carefully placed gusset that allows the rug to pivot at the shoulder in all directions, to prevent uncomfortable shifting and minimise restrictions. A bib-style adjustable front closure prevents rubbing on the underside of the neck and chest while keeping the rug secure and in place. This design is available across all rug types, including stable rugs, turnouts, stable sheets, and more! Teamed with a Rambo Optimo liner, this range of rugs is also extremely versatile as they can be easily adapted as the weather changes.Rambo Optimo Stable RugRambo SupremeCrafted from a sturdy 1680D Ballistic Nylon waterproof and breathable outer, which is 120% stronger than Horsewares standard 1000D Ballistic Nylon, the Rambo Supreme turnout rugs boast an incredible 10-year guarantee! This applies to their waterproofness, breathability and hardware.Rambo Supreme 1680D Plus TurnoutRambo also offer a premium range of stable rugs, fly rugs and other equestrian accessories. Built to perform, and built to last, a Rambo rug is the ultimate option for your horse. Shop all Rambo RhinoHorsewares Rhino rugs deliver superior and innovative horse protection in harsh weather conditions. Rhino rugs (excluding Rhino Wugs) are compatible with Horsewares liner collection to give you flexibility throughout changeable weather. Plus, Horseware guarantees that their Rhino turnout rugs will remain waterproof and breathable for a minimum of 3 years.Rhino Wug TurnoutRhino Hexstop TurnoutRhino Stable RugThe turnout rugs in the Rhino range are engineered with Barrier Layer Technology, which consists of a 1000D polypropylene outer with an Aquatrans coating. Polypropylene is a more robust alternative to the widely used polyester turnout material, while the Aquatrans Technology protects the waterproof and breathable barrier layer underneath. This means your rug will give protection from the elements, even if the outer becomes damaged.Rhino Plus TurnoutRhino HexstopHorseware also produces the Rhino Hexstop turnout rugs, which feature an innovative 1000D Hexagon Ripstop weave. This material is composed of Ripstop yarns in a unique hexagonal shape, with an additional protective waterproof and breathable barrier layer underneath. 30% stronger than standard polypropylene rug material and 20% lighter in weight, these turnout rugs have the ultimate strength properties, perfect for horses who have a tendency to really put their rugs to the test!Rhino Hexstop Plus Turnout Shop all Rhino AmigoA high-functioning and extremely popular choice from Horseware. Amigo rugs are known for their reliable styles and trending colours and the range includes stable rugs, turnouts, coolers, fly rugs, and more. Within the Amigo brand there are several collections to allow you to find the rug thats exactly right for your horse.Amigo Jersey CoolerAmigo AmECO TurnoutAmigo FlyriderAmigo AmECOPart of Horsewares Eco collection, AmECO rugs are manufactured using lower-impact materials and innovative processes, making them a better choice for the planet. Offering a choice of turnout and fly rugs and equipped with all the features you know and love from Amigo, an AmECO rug is a must-have for equestrians looking to reduce their carbon hoof prints.Amigo AmECO CombiAmigo Bravo 12A classic design crafted from a strong 1200D Polyester material which is 42% stronger than standard 600D outer. The wide variety of front closures, weights and neck options in the Amigo Bravo 12 range gives you the flexibility to pick exactly what you need. Because these rugs are fully compatible with the Horseware Liner System, they provide you with even greater flexibility in your rugging choices, making these a truly versatile choice.Amigo Bravo 12 Plus TurnoutAmigo Ripstop 900DOffering dependable protection and superior comfort, the Ripstop 900D is a range of Amigo turnout rugs made with a 900D Ripstop Polyester outer. This material is strong, durable, and provides excellent breathability. For added versatility, these turnout rugs include liner loops compatible with the Horseware Liner system, making them adaptable to different weather scenarios.Amigo Ripstop 900D Plus Turnout Shop all Amigo Horseware Rugs FeaturesAcross the Horseware range, there is a selection of carefully curated features that many of Horsewares rugs are equipped with. These have all been developed with your horse as a priority, to ensure maximum comfort, protection and functionality. Some features are more suited to some horses than others, so we have highlighted some options below to help you find exactly the right rug for your horse.Horseware Rugs Liner SystemBe ready for the weather with the Horseware Liner System; an easy way to transform the weight of your rug when your horse needs it. Many Horseware rugs are equipped with cleverly placed loops on the inside of the neck and at the back end of the rug so it can be combined with a liner. Available in a range of thicknesses, Horseware liners fit easily into a domestic washing machine, so the Horseware Liner System allows you to keep your horses rug clean with ease. Find out more about this great system here.Horseware Rugs Vari-Layer TechnologyThis option gives your horse warmth where they need it the most. Across the back of the rug the thermobonded fiberfill is the thickest, while the sides of the rug have slightly less fill. This unique approach gives maximum heat retention without the heaviness of a standard fill rug. For example, a medium weight Vari-Layer rug will have 250g fill across the back, with 100g on the sides. This also allows the rug to sit closer to the horses body, trapping the warm air and allowing greater belly coverage underneath.Horseware Rugs Front Closures & Neck OptionsDifferent brands and styles of horse rugs within the Horseware collection feature different front fastenings, which all boast different benefits.Horsewares unique Disc Front Closure has an ergonomic shape to allow your horse to graze comfortably, and the design reduces the risk of it becoming caught. V-Front Closures are often paired with a Surefit Neck Design on selected Horseware rugs; combined these features eliminate pressure on the shoulder and allow the rug to sit well in front of the withers. Horseware also equip some of their rugs with Straight Front Closures. These are a pair of surcingle-type fastenings that provide a secure fit across the chest.Disc FrontV-FrontStraight FrontDepending on how covered your horse needs to be, Horseware offers three main hood options. Firstly, many of Horsewares rugs are available in standard neck (original) designs, which do not include a neck cover. Then there is Horsewares Plus option; these rugs come with a detachable neck cover to give you the flexibility to change the rugs coverage depending on the weather. Finally, Horseware also offer their exclusive Wug design. This incorporates a high-cut neck for a snug fit which also eliminates wither pressure, and is often popular for narrower-built or high withered horses.Standard NeckPlusWug Explore all Horseware A well-fitting, high-performing rug goes a long way to making a cold day comfortable for your horse or from keeping your horse being bothered by bugs during the summer.Ultimately, which Horseware rug you choose will be determined by which brand and style fit your horse the best and when they will be wearing it. You can be confident whichever Amigo, Rambo or Rhino rug you pick will keep your horse comfortable and protected from the elements.Looking for the best rug for your horse? Discover our huge range of horse rugs on our website and app, or visit our tack shop based in Totnes, Devon where our friendly team can provide further guidance on horse rugs and accessories. Shop all Horseware Rugs The post All You Need To Know About Horseware Rugs: An Exclusive Redpost Guide first appeared on Redpost Equestrian Blog.

It is a sign of passing years as stallions that once featured as Sires, are now proving themselves as Dams Sires. Michael Nolan continues to advertise their value as he brings on more young Irish breds this week. See below the full list of International Eventing Results for this week. Rocking Horse Winter Horse Trials (USA) 25th 26th January 2025 Open Intermediate One Day 9th Lissavorra Quality (ISH) 2016 mare by OBOS Quality 004 (OLD) out of Soolmoy Lucy (ISH) by Lux Z (HANN). Breeder: Patrick McLoughney. Rider: Elisa Wallace (USA) 39.6, 4, 8.8 = 52.4. Open Intermediate 3rd Cooley Baltic Sea (ISH)[was Cooley Pot of Gold & Annaghmore Baltic Sea] 2014 gelding by Baltic VDL (KWPN) out of HHS Cheerio (ISH) by Harlequin du Carel (SF). Breeder: Judy Tobin & Aoife Healion. Rider: Arielle Aharoni (USA) 29.0, 0, 3.6 = 32.6 4th Luska Candy Clover [ISH][was []