Hooked on horses for as long as she could remember, Renee Genther grew up on the move, following her dads career in the Air Force. Still, she managed to always find horses or ponies to ride wherever she lived.Her love for horses never faded even into adulthood. After Genthers husband retired from the Coast Guard in 2001, the family decided to call Florida home, relocating to be near both of their parents with their two children, Emily and Kyle.Genther set her sights on horse-friendly Ocala, Fla. A dressage rider, Genther competes at the FEI level with Hector, an imported Lusitano from Brazil with a puppy personality. The pair is working on advancing their skills enough to show at the Grand Prix level.Renee Genther aboard Hector with her husband, Doug. Her family has helped support and grow her business venture.By day, Genther supports her equestrian lifestyle as a full-time oncology nurse practitioner. And now, shes also an entrepreneur.Inventing Something NewWhen the pandemic hit in 2020, Genther and her adult daughter, Emily, started making their own sugar cubes for their horses. Covid was causing issues with the supply chain, and there wasnt a cube in sight for the horses.Hector is a notoriously a picky drinker. When planning to travel to a horse show, Genther was concerned when she saw that temperatures were going to drop. It felt like a perfect storm for colic. She considered scratching from the show.When a friend suggested adding electrolytes to their sugar cubes, the mother-daughter duo decided to give it a try. She passed out a surplus of extra cubes to fellow riders, also concerned about water intake at the show. The horses drank. The next day, riders started approaching Genther, requesting more sugar cubes and wanting to know where to purchase them.Then it just kind of took on a life of its own, she says. We did some research and didnt see anything out there that was similar, so we started making them in our kitchen at 4 a.m. before work.The cubes were poured into molds before the sun came up and distributed into tubs after work, ready to sell.We started selling them locally to tack stores, and an owner of a store at the World Equestrian Center [in Ocala] gave us a big break, says Genther. The cubes were a hit. The motto for our products is Horse treats with purpose, because we all want to reward our horses, but we want it to be with something thats going to benefit them. Meeting a Demand Once the electrolyte cubes gained popularity, Genther realized her kitchen was no longer going to be able to make enough for their customers. She was encouraged by fellow riders and friends to keep the business going, ultimately starting her quest for mass production.After reaching out to several candy and pharmaceutical companies about making the sugar cubes, it was proving to be a daunting task. The goal was always to create a human-grade product, fed to horses. As soon as a manufacturer heard the product was for a horse, they said no. After striking out, Genther connected with Courtney Varney, DVM, an FEI veterinary delegate and competitor, who has competed through the Grand Prix level in dressage. Impressed by the product, Varney helped formulate the recipe into a cold, compressed forma sugar cube made into a fine powder and compressed, like an Altoid. Genthers creation, officially monikered Funky Unicorn Treats, finally found a medical director and a pharmaceutical company in the United States to make their treats. The treats are available in three flavors: apple, banana and mint.Every single cube has a precise amount [of electrolyte] in it, so theres no question about the dosage, says Genther. Its made the same way you would create Tylenol.Wholesale accounts have been quickly picking up Funky Unicorn Treats, and direct online sales are steadily growing as customers begin to learn about them.Every opportunity I get to educate people and tell people about them, I do, Genther says. Im a horrible salesperson, but because I know theyre going to help horses, its easy. Its something I believe in, so I can do it.Emily helps with the business when it comes to social media, and she enjoys interacting with new customers at events. Occasionally, Genthers husband Doug helps with shipping or some heavy lifting, making it a family affair.A Rewarding Product Genthers unplanned journey to create electrolyte cubes has brought on a new level of learning and challenges. But she loves hearing about how much this product helps her customers horses.Ive had veterinary schools tell me that theyve ended up with our product somehow, and its really made a difference for the horses in their care, Genther says. Thats the goal for us; thats everything. I did it for my horse to make sure he was safe and happy.Follow along on Instagram @funkyunicorn_treats and Facebook (Funky Unicorn Treats), or learn more at FunkyUnicornTreats.com.This article about Renee Genthers Funy Unicorn Treats business appeared in the November/December 2023 issue of Horse Illustratedmagazine.Click here to subscribe!The post Boss Babes: Renee Genther of Funky Unicorn Treats appeared first on Horse Illustrated Magazine.

Topic Key Points Red Bartsia Overview Originates from Europe and Asia, invasive in North America, recognized scientifically as Odontites vernus, considered a noxious weed. Plant Characteristics Annual plant, 6-15 inches tall, erect branching stems, lance-oblong leaves with rough hairs and sometimes blunt teeth, pink to purplish tubular flowers, elongate oval seeds with thin ridges. Impact on Agriculture Reduces pasture capacity, competes with native flora, contaminates hay, altering ecosystem dynamics. Management Strategies Preventive measures via certified seeds, use of cultivation strategies and competitive crops, herbicides, biological controls as future consideration. Call to Action Encouragement to adopt preventive and management measures to maintain healthy pastures and fields. Identifying and Managing Invasive Weeds: A Closer Look at Red Bartsia in Your Field In the realm of agriculture and land management, few things are more troublesome than invasive weeds. Troublemakers like Red Bartsia can wreak havoc, not just on productive agriculture, but also on biodiversity. Let's dive into the nitty-gritty details of this pesky plant and explore how to manage it effectively. What is Red Bartsia? Red Bartsia, also scientifically recognized as Odontites vernus, hails originally from Europe and Asia but has made its unwelcome appearance in North America. It's a courteous way to say its become quite the noxious weed on this side of the pond as well. The Plant's Build: Height and Growth This annual plant flaunts its physique by reaching heights of 6 to 15 inches. With erect and branching stems, it wisely chooses not to hold back its towering demeanor, proudly standing to block views like a stage interrupting your favorite show. Its as if it's shouting from the rooftops, "Not today, native plants!" [3] Leaves and Their Furry Face The leaves of Red Bartsia are orderly arranged on the stems in opposite pairs like any proper pair of footwear. Narrow, they are lance-oblong in shape with rough hairs adorning their surface. Occasionally, a few blunt teeth make an appearance along the edges. Even weeds have fashion trends to keep up! [3] Flower Power: The Charming Blooms Its almost like Red Bartsia took inspiration from lip designs in makeup. The flowers of this plant present a pink to purplish spectacle in spike-like clusters at branch tops. Tubular and two-lipped, with the lower lip expanding into three lobes, they're all set to conquer new territories while looking stylish! [3] The Seeds: Mixed Personalities The seeds match the rest of their stylea pale yellow to white coat with a reddish underbelly, elongate oval in shape, and dare I say, carefully elegantly ribbed? They have thin transverse ridges and, believe it or not, play a part in the plant's spreading charisma. [4] The Unwanted Impact of Red Bartsia Punky Pastures A rebel adult of the plant kingdom, Red Bartsia stands unbeaten in its own punk of detestability. Cattle repeatedly snub it, and it leads conversations in pasture capacity reduction meetings. Why have a pastoral bliss when you can stress it out instead? [1] The Unwanted Competition Uninvited like a wedding crasher, Red Bartsia competes ruthlessly with native flora for resources. It potentially alters ecosystem dynamics. If plants had a union, we'd likely see some strong words of dissatisfaction. [1] Your Hay is at Stake! The seeds are like glitterit gets everywhere, and unlike the sparkly joy of crafts, they transform hay into contaminated nightmares. Harvesting and transport become yet another tale of woe for farmers. [2] Time for Action: Managing Red Bartsia If you've made it this far reading along, you deserve hopeand were here to provide a fair share. Managing Red Bartsia is not just a dream; its within reach! Be a Proactive Citizen: Preventive Measures First things first, planting certified seed ensures youre not adding Red Bartsias talent pool to your fields. Organize friendly neighborhood border patrols around your fields to spot the red devil early. [2] What if It's Already Behind Enemy Lines? Relax, not all hope is lost. Cultivation strategies and the growth of competitive crops can weaken the convincing Red Bartsia. If its stubbornness remains, call in reinforcements like herbicides to help establish whos boss. Note: always ensure pastures and fields are legume-free first! [2] Biological Decisions Ahead Though currently a backstage theory, biological controls remain a feasibility to explore in the near future. Being green needs patience, and drama awaits the unfolding story of whether plants can battle plants. Final Thoughts and a Call to Action Remember, identifying and managing Red Bartsia isn't just about plant knowledge but using our intellect, wit, and science to humble this grandiose weed. With careful execution of preventive measures, effective tactical management, and open-mindedness toward newer methodsour pastures can indeed find peace. If you want your equine friends to trot through lands safe and plush, maintain vigilance, trust the process, and maybe, just maybe, indulge them with a treat from the Horse Treats and Gifts collection for a job well done!```html```

I really thought she would be one of those horses that lived forever. If she hadnt hurt her hind fetlock, we would have still be having rides. But as I was pulled in so many directions, I was too busy to ride anyway, so she was my beautiful pasture ornament, hanging out with my one remaining equine on the property, Pony.It was harder to put weight on her, and we begin having regular visits from the vet to check on her condition, but otherwise, she basically just existed. We spent casual time together, doing some grooming, getting some scratches, but nothing formal (no teas or nights out.)One day, I decided to take a short ride on her. Very short, as I didnt want to hurt her, but I just wanted one more moment with her. I had a feeling it would be my very last ride on her, but only because I knew it wasnt something she should do often not because I expected her to die just months later.Fast forward to just January, and its time for snow and a polar vortex. Its not something I even think will be a concern, weve dealt with it before. I have a barn full of hay and grain, weve got water, theres shelter, it all should be fine. And maybe it was, as first. But, very suddenly, shes not doing good. She went from fine, to spending 95% of her time laying down. Every time she stands, she trembles until she falls over. Shes barely able to walk. Her legs were massively swollen. I had to bring food and water to her, as she couldnt get back to the barn.The vet comes out. Theres not much we can do for this almost 28 year old horse that cant stand. It was time to put her down.Im grateful to my wonderful, compassionate vet, who helped me through this process. And Im glad my kids choose this time to go play in the snow, out of view of the event.On January 30, 2025, Vintage passed away, with me, her owner of 22 years, and her faithful Pony companion by her side. I told her over and over again she was a good girl, and shed always done everything weve asked of her.I had already been mourning the loss of my beautiful dog, Paxton, a few weeks ago. Now I had two wonderful pets dying within weeks of each other.Just one month ago, right before the snow startedTwo months ago, my son feeding VintageGo Over All The MemoriesMy vet was super kind about everything. He explained the whole process to me, and told me I was doing her a kindness.As he was leaving, he told me the best thing I can do is focus on the good memories. Think of all the good times we had together. Thats what Im trying to do, because everything else hurts so much.I remember the first time I ever saw her, in 2003. She was tied to a trailer in a parking lot, dancing around nervously, and I thought she was the most beautiful horse Id ever seen. She was small, something that would end up bothering me for years, and then ending up not mattering at all, but she held herself so beautifully. I was in love.It was very much a case of being too green of a rider for this green horse. I started taking lessons on her, but it seemed like a mess. There was a time when my trainer had me convinced I needed to sell her to buy a real horse, and I almost did it. I was showing her off to a potential buyer when I realized again how beautiful she looked. How she stood quietly on the crossties. How well she behaved under saddle. I realized she was coming along, she wasnt just the unruly barely broke horse I started with.I keep plugging along in lessons, and studying my riding books, and I learned how to train her. I learned to be confident with her. One of the biggest moments of my riding life was the day I decided to ride her alone to go meet with friends. I was terrified, but I really wanted it, so I just did it. I surprised myself by how well it went. After that, we were unstoppable.Early on, maybe 2005?That time she decided to climb a mound of dirt. Maybe shes part goat. Taking a lessonShe went from being green to being the bravest, most willing horse Id ever ridden. I was proud to show her to others. I was eager to let other people ride her and see how amazing she was under saddle. She responded to a whisper, a thought. It was like we could read each others minds. She was energetic and enthusiastic, but so sensible. Literally the most perfect partner one could ask for. I never felt unsafe on her.201420162016 The lameness exam after the infamous injury: she jumped out of her stall through the window because she felt left out. Getting xrayedI rode her everywhere. We ended up on construction sites, jumping the materials. One time we accidently ended up in quick sand, or at least what seemed like it (Is quick sand real, or just something made up in the 80s to scare us?). We sank all the way up to her belly, but she pulled out of it.My number one memory of all time is taking her to the C&O Canal and swimming in the Potomac. It was me, and Vintage, my other horse Clay, and two of my friends horses. Vintage ended up being the only one that would swim in the deep water, and she did it over and over again for us. We doubled up on her back to swim through, and one time I grabbed her tail and was pulled along through the water. I still remember that as one of the best rides of my life.2016Later on, I got Berry, so I was taking lessons on her, and she became my primary horse. But Vintage was the second horse, good for the days I wanted to ride both, or for when friends wanted to ride. I still loved showing other people how amazing she was.2017 DArcy jumping VintageBut there was her injury. I had put her in a stall while we took out Berry and Pony, and she did not take kindly to that. She jumped out of her stall through the window and injured herself. That was possibly the beginning to the end. She went to semi-retirement, with injections to keep her sound. But then I was so busy was the other horses, and then the kids, that she wasnt being ridden at all. So I dropped the injections and she became just a beautiful pasture ornament.For years, shes just lived out her best feral life. I was heart broken to sell Berry, her best friend of 10 years, but I was spread so thin I couldnt keep up with everything. Pony was her only companion for the last two years.20172017I wish I had spent more time with her. I wish I had taken more photos of her. Why couldnt there have been more time? Between her and Paxton, my heart cant take the pain.After all of this, I am hurting for my old horses. I reached out to Berrys new owner, and luckily I did hear that Berry is now doing better. Shes with a new barn who worked out her issues and is doing well with her. But I wish I could have her back. I should have never sold her. Maybe one day she will come back to me.Vintage and Berry togetherI am grateful my children got to meet Vintage. Although they never truly rode her, they did spend some time sitting on her. Nothing has filled my heart more than my children sitting on the horse I love so much. She has never been frightened of them, despite their loud and sporadic nature. She truly was a unicorn.2023 Bridgette and Vintage2024The VoidI go down to the barn and its silent. Pony is still there, of course, and the only times the silence breaks is when he talks to me. He actually responds when I speak to him, which is kind of neat, its the only time life has been like those ridiculous horse movies.I dont just feel the loss of Vintage, I hurt for Berry, too. I gave her up willingly, and I regret it so much. I miss my dream team, my three amigos, my perfect herd. I didnt realize how perfect they all were together until now.I feel like I just lost Paxton all over again, too. Hes buried down near the barn, very close to where Vintage is now buried. It wasnt planned, the burial man picked the spot, but they ended up within 50 feet of each other. They didnt spend much time together in life, but now they are companions in death.Moving around the barn is surreal. Theres no faces watching me work. Theres no heads hanging over the fence, hoping for a pet. Its just me and Pony.Hes handling the loss better than I expected. He spent a lot of time in the spot where he last saw her, where she had spent her final moments. He circled, he called, he then searched the pasture. I stood out there with him so he wasnt alone, but he wasnt interested in me. He just wanted his friend back.I visit him a lot, so he knows hes not totally alone. He needs a new friend, or he needs to be moved to a barn with friends. We havent figured out the best solution yet. But he seems calm, for now. He wanders and he watches. He will stand near me as I do barn work, but doesnt seem too concerned when I leave.Ive been spending my few hours searching online for a new friend for him. I know he needs one, but it hurts to think of getting another horse. I dont feel ready for more. The emptiness from Vintage and Berry should only be filled by them. But thats not going to happen. That life is over. The dream team is gone forever.The post I Lost My Heart Horse appeared first on An Equestrian Life.

Category Details Understanding Cobs Sturdy build; popular for riding and driving; choose based on use (pet, competitive, leisure). Irish Horse Register (IHR) & ISH Offers verified pedigrees; provides trust in the horse trade. Local Breeders & Farms Allows buyers to see cobs in their environment; direct insights from breeders. Equestrian Events & Shows Avenue for networking; view cobs in action and assess suitability. Northern Ireland Horse Board (NIHB) Resource for connecting buyers with reputable sellers; simplifies purchasing process. Local Auctions & Sales Offers competitive prices; emphasizes importance of pre-purchase vet checks. Equine Centers & Stables Provides training and care services; supports first-time owners. Inspection Check for health signs and conduct a veterinarian assessment. Pedigree Check Essential for breed verification through registries. Professional Advice & Test Ride Consult professionals; ensure compatibility through test rides. Price Negotiation Flexibility based on cobs age, condition, and care expenses. Research Sellers Use references and community for reputable sellers. Cost Understanding Account for feed, supplements, veterinary care, and equipment. Long-Term Care Planning Ensure stable space, exercise, and health check-ups. Exploring the Best Places to Buy Cobs in Ireland and Northern Ireland: Tips and Recommendations When it comes to purchasing cobs in Ireland and Northern Ireland, the journey can be as exciting as it is rewarding. Cobs are favored for their versatility and gentle nature, and this in-depth guide will help you navigate the vibrant equestrian landscape to find the perfect cob suited to your needs. Understanding Cobs: What Makes Them Special? Cobs are known for their sturdy build and adaptability, making them popular among horse enthusiasts for riding and driving. Before embarking on your search for a cob in Ireland or Northern Ireland, its essential to understand what youre looking forwhether its a family pet, a show competitor, or a leisure riding partner. Best Places to Buy Cobs in Ireland Irish Horse Register (IHR) and Irish Sport Horse Studbook (ISH) IHR and ISH offer a robust platform for the trade of horses, ensuring that the horses available have a verified pedigree, which is essential for those looking into specific breeds. These organizations bring a level of trust and assurance when purchasing your cob. Local Breeders and Farms Many breeders offer the unique opportunity to observe cobs in their natural environment. This setting allows potential buyers to evaluate the horses temperament and condition firsthand, gaining valuable insights directly from breeders who specialize in these horses. Equestrian Events and Shows An excellent avenue for networking and viewing cobs in their element, equestrian events and shows provide a platform to see these horses in action. Potential buyers can witness the abilities and characteristics of cobs under show conditions, offering a practical glimpse into their suitability. Best Places to Buy Cobs in Northern Ireland Northern Ireland Horse Board (NIHB) The NIHB is a valuable resource providing support and connecting buyers with reputable sellers across the region. With their guidance, the complexities of purchasing a cob become an easier endeavor. Local Auctions and Sales For those attuned to the thrill of auctions, Northern Ireland hosts numerous sales events where cobs might be acquired at competitive prices. However, due diligence in terms of pre-purchase veterinary checks remains paramount. Equine Centers and Stables Equine centers often provide additional services like training and care, making them ideal for first-time cob owners. These facilities are equipped to ensure a smooth transition and ongoing support for your new equestrian friend. Tips for Buying a Cob Inspect the Horse Thoroughly Checking for signs of health, such as a shiny coat and strong hooves, is essential. A thorough veterinarian assessment can further guarantee the cobs suitability and well-being. Check the Pedigree and Lineage For those passionate about specific breeds, verifying the cobs pedigree through established registries ensures you obtain what you seek. Consider Professional Advice and Test Ride Consulting with equine professionals and taking the cob for a test ride are crucial steps to confirm compatibility, aligning with both your riding style and experience level. Negotiate the Price Always be open to negotiation based on age, condition, and additional expenses related to the cobs long-term care needs. Recommendations for Buyers Research Reputable Sellers Utilize online platforms, references, and community referrals to locate sellers with strong endorsements within the equestrian community. Understand the Costs Involved Beyond the initial purchase price, consider ongoing costs such as feed, supplements, veterinary care, and equipment. Plan for Long-Term Care Ensure you have the means and facilities necessary for your cobs long-term welfare, factors that may include adequate stable space, regular exercise, and routine health check-ups. Conclusion Purchasing a cob in Ireland or Northern Ireland is not just a transaction but a long-term investment and experience. By following these recommendations and understanding the market dynamics, you can make an informed purchase.Whether for companionship, riding, or competitive showing, both regions offer an abundance of options to match your unique preferences and lifestyle. Additional Resources Irish Horse Register (IHR) Local Equestrian Events and Shows Each step of this process is enhanced by a careful blend of planning and passion, ensuring the perfect cob accompanies you on your equestrian journey.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Galten Farms Schickedanz GS (@galten_farms) We were very sorry to learn of the passing of Humble GS this week at the age of 19. Humble GS...

West Yorkshire Police have confirmed that they would like to identify and speak with a man who was walking a chocolate-coloured Spaniel off its lead on the afternoon of Saturday January 25 in Lofthouse Colliery Nature Park.Last week, Your Horse reported that a loose dog had run around nine-year-old palomino Lokis legs while he was out hacking in the nature park with 17-year-old Lili-Anna and three friends. According to the riders grandmother, Rosita Pyne, Loki (pictured above) was frightened by the dog and bucked his rider off, before bolting. Tragically, he was then hit by a car travelling along Leeds Road in Lofthouse, a village between Wakefield and Leeds, and suffered catastrophic injuries, including four shattered legs.Emergency services attended and the pony was put to sleep on the road. The driver was unhurt, but the vehicle was written off.A statement from the police said: Roads policing officers were called to Leeds Road, Lofthouse at 4.31pm on Saturday January 25th to a report a horse and car had been in collision.Officers attended and established the horse had thrown a female rider in a nearby field before bolting into the road in front of the car which was in motion.Following new information supplied in the days after the incident, the Wakefield West NPT would now like to identify and speak with a male walking a dog on fields near the old Lofthouse golf course.It is believed the man, described as [being in his] 50s or 60s, was walking a chocolate-coloured spaniel off the lead which interacted with the horse prior to it bolting, and could provide more information about the circumstances of what occurred.Come forward and speak with officersInspector Andrew Dickinson of the Wakefield West Neighbourhood Policing Team (NPT) said: This was clearly a very upsetting and emotive incident which resulted in the tragic death of a horse at the roadside. Its rider was unhurt but understandably highly distressed by what occurred.While there was no evidence to suggest any offences were committed by the car driver,we have been in receipt of some new information about the circumstances leading up to the horse bolting from its rider.We would like to speak to a male walking a chocolate-coloured spaniel on fields near the old Lofthouse golf course.We believe he may be able to assist us in clarifying the circumstances of what took place, prior to the horse making off.I would ask this male, who may live locally, to come forwards and speak with officers. The man or anyone with information related to the enquiry can contact Wakefield West NPT on 101, referencing police log 0731 of January 29.Information can also be given to the police online at the following link: www.westyorkshire.police.uk/livechatPetition to better protect horsesA petition set up with the aim of prompting the updating of the Dangerous Dogs Act to specifically protect horses has so far received 12,600 signatures. It requires 100,000 signatures before it will be debated in Parliament.Victoria Privett, who has a 39k Instagram following as @endurancewithdarcy, set up the petition. She said: Sadly incidents are still occurring, and therefore a petition was made to try and ensure dog owners are held responsible for their dogs and to try and introduce a leash law when in the presence of horses to reduce incident numbers. Putting dogs on a lead for a few seconds while a horse passes promotes safety for the horse, rider, dog, its owner and the wider public. I am privileged to be in the position to have an audience and use my social media platforms to promote change and safety.Rising number of dog attacksNearly 300 dog attacks were reported to the British Horse Society last year via its Horse i app. Five horses were reported to have died and 43 people were injured.UK dog ownership has surged and there were around 13.5 million dogs in the UK in 2024, an increase of 4.5 million since 2019. This means more first-time dog owners, who may have less experience of how to act around horses and farmed animals.Even if your dog has always been OK with horses, that doesnt mean that every horse will be OK with him. A horse cant distinguish between a dog who just wants to play and one thats attacking, BHS safety team leader Des Payne told Your Horse.The regularity of cases is increasing and in part this is due to riders becoming aware that they can record incidents, but we also believe attacks may be more frequent, he added.Main image of Loki Rosita PyneRelated contentNumber of incidents of dogs attacking horses is on the rise, warns safety expertPetition set up with the aim of updating the Dangerous Dogs Act to better protect horsesOwner pays tribute to pony who died on the road after being spooked by a dogHow to report incidents to the BHS using the Horse i appThe post Police searching for the owner of a loose dog after pony was killed on the road appeared first on Your Horse.

Element Details Introduction to Grass Livery Natural living environments for horses; involves pasture grazing with limited services. Contract needed for smooth operations and legal protection. Parties Involved Identify names, addresses, and contact info of both livery yard and horse owners for transparency and accountability. Horse Details Comprehensive description including name, breed, age, and features. Consider attaching a photo. Document any pre-existing conditions. Services Included Define scope of services like pasture management, feeding, and water access. Veterinary and Farrier Care Outline responsibilities for emergency and regular veterinary care. Costs and Payment Terms State livery fees and any additional costs. Outline when payments are due. Termination and Notice Period Define conditions for contract termination and notice period for future arrangements. Insurance and Liability State insurance requirements and incorporate liability waiver to protect the yard. Safety and Yard Rules Outline safety standards and yard rules, including stable hours and safety protocols. Essential Elements to Include in a Grass Livery Contract: A Comprehensive Guide for Horse OwnersWhether you're a seasoned horse owner or just starting with your equestrian journey, understanding the ins and outs of a grass livery contract is essential. As the popularity of grass livery increases, knowing how to draft a contract that protects both you and your horse is crucial. This guide will walk you through the must-have elements in a grass livery contract.Introduction to Grass LiveryGrass livery is an option for horse owners who prefer a more natural living environment for their horses. It usually involves access to pasture for grazing with limited additional services. While seemingly simple, a detailed contract is necessary to ensure smooth operations and legally protect both parties involved.Parties InvolvedClearly identify the names and addresses of both the livery yard owner and the horse owner. This information provides accountability and lays the foundation for a transparent agreement. Moreover, include contact information such as phone numbers and emails to ensure easy communication.Horse DetailsAn effective contract will feature a comprehensive description of the horse, including its name, breed, age, and distinguishing features. You might even want to attach a photograph to avoid any confusion. Additionally, documenting any pre-existing conditions helps prevent disputes about the horse's health.Services IncludedDefine the scope of services provided by the livery. This includes aspects like pasture management, supplementary feeding, and clean water access. It's imperative to specify what each party is responsible for. Pasture Management: Includes tasks such as checking fences and rotating pastures. Supplementary Feeding: Clarify the conditions under which this is provided. Watering: Ensure that there is clean water available at all times.Veterinary and Farrier CareIn any livery setup, the health of the horse is paramount. The contract should outline who is responsible for emergency veterinary care and regular check-ups. Emergency Care: Specify who can call a vet and under what circumstances. Regular Care: Usually, this is the horse owners responsibility.Costs and Payment TermsThe contract must clearly state the livery fees and any additional costs that could arise during the horse's stay. Make sure to outline the termsare payments made in advance or arrears?Termination and Notice PeriodDefine the conditions under which both parties can terminate the contract. Include a notice period to allow both parties enough time for future arrangements. This topic is significant for legal security [1].Insurance and LiabilityThe contract should state if the horse owner must have insurance for their horse. Additionally, consider incorporating a liability waiver to protect the livery yard from claims resulting from accidents.Safety and Yard RulesA comprehensive contract will outline any safety standards or yard rules that everyone must follow. Its crucial to include aspects such as stable hours and any specific safety protocols [3].{ "@context": "https://schema.org", "@type": "FAQPage", "mainEntity": [ { "@type": "Question", "name": "What is a grass livery contract?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "A grass livery contract is an agreement between a horse owner and a livery yard owner outlining terms for using a pasture for grazing, including services provided and legal protections." } }, { "@type": "Question", "name": "What details should be included about the horse in the contract?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "The contract should include the horse's name, breed, age, and any distinguishing features. It could also include a photograph and details of any pre-existing health conditions." } }, { "@type": "Question", "name": "What services should be defined in a grass livery contract?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "The contract should define services such as pasture management, supplementary feeding, and access to clean water, specifying what each party is responsible for." } }, { "@type": "Question", "name": "How should veterinary and farrier care be addressed in the contract?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "The contract should outline who is responsible for emergency veterinary care and regular check-ups, with typically the horse owner taking charge of regular care." } }, { "@type": "Question", "name": "What should the contract specify about costs and payment terms?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "The contract must clearly state livery fees and additional costs, detailing whether payments are made in advance or arrears." } }, { "@type": "Question", "name": "How is termination and notice period handled in a livery contract?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "The contract should define conditions under which it can be terminated, including a notice period for future arrangements and legal security." } }, { "@type": "Question", "name": "What are the insurance and liability considerations in a grass livery contract?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "The contract should state if the horse owner must have insurance and may include a liability waiver to protect against accident claims." } }, { "@type": "Question", "name": "What safety and yard rules should be included in the contract?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "The contract should outline safety standards or yard rules, including stable hours and specific safety protocols that both parties must follow." } } ]}

The RSPCA is asking members of the public to come forward if they have any information pertaining to the body of an extremely thin mare being dumped on the side of the road in East Sussex.The dead body, which was not microchipped, was reported by several members of the public on Chapel Hill Lane at Sedlescombe near Battle on the morning of Monday 27 January.The grey cob, who was missing her right eye, was very thin and had been tied by a rachet strap to a telegraph pole.This poor horse was in a very bad condition and she had been severely neglected before being dumped at this location, said RSPCA animal rescue officer Claire Thomas, who is investigating.It appears she was tied to the telegraph pole so that the vehicle used to carry her could be driven off from the scene.We are appealing for anyone who saw anything suspicious in the area on the morning of January 27 or the previous evening. Appealing for witnessesIts possible the body was there overnight, although we dont think the equine was there that long as this is quite a busy lane used by commuters in the mornings and evenings and the body was very visible, added Claire.Someone may have vehicle dash camera footage that might cover this section of Chapel Hill Lane which could help with our enquiries.The dead horse was found at the junction where Crazy Lane turns left into Chapel Hill Lane.Anyone with any information is asked to contact the RSPCA appeals line number on 0300 123 8018 quoting incident number 01435963.Related contentTwo cobs left behind and forgotten after owners vanish as number of abandonment cases continue to riseNumber of incidents of dogs attacking horses is on the rise, warns safety expertPetition set up with the aim of updating the Dangerous Dogs Act to better protect horsesOwner pays tribute to pony who died on the road after being spooked by a dogThe post RSPCA appeals for information after emaciated dead horse dumped on roadside appeared first on Your Horse.

Kent Farrington (USA) and Toulayna - winners of the Longines FEI Jumping World Cup™ 2024/25 - Thermal (USA). © FEI/Sara Shier Photography 01.02.2025 Kent Farrington (USA) logged his second World Cup victory of the 2024/25 season Saturday night at Desert International Horse Park (USA), riding to the top of the Longines FEI Jumping World Cup™ Thermal. After winning the...