Advertisement featureWe recently asked the question of, When does a horse become a senior? and explained how, like people, horses age at different times.We all know someone that is old before their time with other people seem to defy the passing years. From experience, as horse owners we see the same with our equines.My wonderful mare Amie thankfully never seemed to age. She was round and sound right up until she passed away, while my friends horse slowed down more gradually.Both our girls were still a very healthy weight into their late 20s, but one winter we noticed they both needed a lot more feed. With super fluffy winter coats and rugs on, it can be easy to miss subtle body condition changes.Regular body condition scoring and/or use of weigh tapes help us notice upward or downward trends in a senior horses weight before it becomes too serious.Body condition scoringThe two most used scales for body condition scoring are 1-5 and 1-9. SPILLERS recommends using the 1-9 scale, which involves assessing external body fat deposits in six key areas:NeckWithersShoulderRib cageLoinsTailheadThese areas are assessed individually and averaged to give an overall score. A body condition score (BCS) of 5 on the 1-9 scale is generally considered ideal.A score between 4.5 and 6 may also be considered healthy, depending on the individual and the time of year.A score of 3 is described as thin and 7 or above is considered obese.Assess condition by feelIts important to assess condition by feel and not just sight. For example, a horse may look lean, but you may not actually be able to feel their ribs without applying pressure.Fat distribution can vary in individuals too. Ive scored a horse a perfect 5 over the ribs, but then theyve had excess fat on the tail head or a cresty neck that scores a 9.Its important to be as objective as possible when it comes to your own horse and get to know them by feel. Youll notice subtle changes of fat thickness by touching your horse regularly.Often, by the time a horse has gained or lost enough weight to be visibly noticeable, theyve gained or lost quite a lot and maybe more than needed.My senior mare, Amie, never seemed to ageMuscle lossSenior horses, especially once retired, may lose muscle mass, which can make them harder to body condition score. The SPILLERS team see plenty of retired horses who have little topline but are still a healthy body condition.Lack of topline and stomach muscle may give a pot-bellied appearance, which some owners comment makes their horse look fat. If the ribs are not visible and theres no cresty neck, they may well be the right condition.Be careful, though, not to mistake muscle loss for lack of body fat.Weigh tapesWeigh tapes vary in accuracy, but are useful for tracking changes in a horses weight.When using a weigh tape, make sure your horse is standing square and the tape is correctly positioned each time. It should be on a slight diagonal, from the bottom of the withers to just behind the elbow in front of where the girth would be, not behind.Ensure it is taut against the horses body, but not so tight it pinches.Body Condition IndexThe Body Condition Index (BCI) tool on the SPILLERS website is more objective than body condition scoring, but its only suitable for helping to identify excess weight gain or tracking weight loss in those equines who are overweight.The BCI may be more useful for people who are less confident about condition scoring. It involves taking five measurements of the horses body and entering the numbers into the calculator to give a score. However, its not suitable for horses with a pot belly, which can occur in equines suffering from PPID (Cushings disease).Winter weight lossWinter weight loss is generally encouraged for good doers its natures way of preparing your horse for spring grass after all.If your horse tends to lose too much weight over the winter, then reaching a body condition score of 6 in the autumn may be preferable to provide a buffer, provided they are not laminitic.A horse with a body condition score of 4.5 out of 9 at the end of March is (usually) nothing to worry about. Regular checks are crucial for avoiding significant weight fluctuations.Take home messageDuring the winter months, make sure you take your senior horses rug off at least weekly to check them properly and assess their body condition score or use a weigh tape.Adjust their diet appropriately if you notice changes in their body condition before they lose (or gain) too much weight.For further advice and information about how best to care for your super senior horse and to join the SPILLERS Super Seniors Club click here.Main image SpillersRelated contentLaminitis in horses: essential guide for every ownerVeterinary advice for Cushings disease in horsesNine things to consider to keep a senior horse healthy for longerNew club launched for owners of senior horsesThe post How to check a senior horse or pony is in optimal weight and condition *Promotion* appeared first on Your Horse.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Defender Burghley Horse Trials (@burghleyhorsetrials) Another blast from the past at Burghley leads things off this morning. Its important to know the history and origins of...

A riding school horse from Edinburgh, who undertook ceremonial duties and appeared as a model in advertising campaigns, has been posthumously recognised with a BHS award.Monarch, who died in 2024 aged 27, has been awarded the Tarragon Trophy,the British Horse Society (BHS) Equine Personality of the Year Award, which is presented to horses or ponies who have contributed to the community, overcome hardship or deemed to have the personality worthy of the esteemed honour.The grey gelding arrived at Tower Farm Riding Stables at the age of four and quickly proved himself to be trustworthy and naturally level-headed. He was entrusted with carrying both adults and children during lessons and was frequently the lead horse for staff riders taking groups for countryside rides.Monarch also undertook work as a parade horse, frequently being the flag bearer, and participated in many royal engagements.Royal approvalIn 2018 he got a hello and a pat from Queen Elizabeth II at RAF Leuchars during the presentation of the new Standard to the Royal Scots Dragoon Guards.Canon EOS-1D X Mark II f/4 1/1250s 70mm ISO500He met HRH The Princess Royal at the opening of the new BHS Operations Hub in Stirling and he led the procession at the Kings Coronation in Scotland on the Royal Mile in 2023 in what was his last ceremonial role before retiring.During his modelling career, Monarch graced the pages of the Barbour catalogue, posed for the White Horse Whisky campaign and appeared in an advert delivering pizza for Dominos.Monarch was unfazed by large crowds or pipe bands, was a regular entry into fancy dress classes at Tower Farm shows and appeared at community events.Clever clogsHe did have a cheeky side and was very clever. Hewould often open his stable door at night and roam about the barn before putting himself back in his stable in time for breakfast, he wouldnt eat green apples as he preferred sweeter red ones and he knew his name. He would whinny in reply when called in the field or to let the farrier know where he was when he called him.He understood you, was a true gentleman and was the horse of a lifetime, said Debbie Henderson, manager at Tower Farm Riding Stables.He was instantly recognisable with his long ears, wise eyes and his one black and one white front hooves.The award was presented to Monarchs full brother, Duke, by Helene Mauchlen, BHS National Manager for Scotlandin a ceremony at Tower Farm Riding Stables on Thursday.Images Tower Farm Stables.Further reading7 ways to enrich your horses environmentSwap birch for padded hurdles in interest of racehorse welfare, say researchersNew scheme will provide expert tuition to riders on former racehorsesHow to take care of a horseHorse welfare and being environmentally friendly are intrinsically linked, say expertsThe post Once in a lifetime horse posthumously receives BHS award appeared first on Your Horse.

It is good to see the mornings and evenings getting lighter and when the sun does appear I feel there is a hint of Spring on the way. Since I last wrote the pace has quickened in various ways. The Box Office has now been open for a month and the Campsite is in demand and filling up! Rosie has been working on the tradestand area and the jigsaw puzzle does not have many pieces left to be filled. It is very sad that the Rural Crafts Association have retired from events and we are grateful to Trevor, Karen and team for the many years they have supported Badminton. We welcome on board Eden Crafts who will be providing the crafts marquee. The Rural Crafts food area is also under new management, more details to follow.In January I attended the FEI Eventing seminar in Lausanne. Many useful topics were covered and it is always a good opportunity to exchange views from organisers and officials from around the world as our sport evolves.This weekend we held a Medical, Veterinary and Fence Judge meeting. It was good to get everyone together and give an insight into what the 2025 event has in store, which included Eric describing the 2025 cross-country course that is now taking shape. We have in place very strong medical and veterinary teams who are deployed around the cross-country course. This includes a paramedic at each fence and three specialist doctors and vets within each of the sectors of which there are seven, this allows for every fence to be reachable within minutes. Yesterday, we were joined by members of the Gloucestershire and Avon Fire Services who gave both an enlightening talk and demonstration on their methods of horse extraction from a constricted area, with or without a rider involved in the scenario. With the invention of the frangible pins, etc. let us hope this practice will not be needed at Badminton but it is good to have the Fire Services additional knowledge in our back pocket.The previous day we took delivery of the mannequin horse which was amusing and involved a tractor and forklift! The Estate horses were quite surprised to see said horse in the indoor school on Saturday morning!Here in the Office, we all enjoy the moment when the entries open which is imminent. As always, it will be exciting to see which horse and rider combinations enter and will they include last years winner and some of those that competed at the Paris Olympics?! It is also interesting to see the first timers that enter and we look forward to welcoming them to Badminton in May.We have had several planning meetings with Mars Equestrian and how lucky we are that they are the Title Sponsor of the event, the whole team is great to work with and they give us wonderful support in various ways.We were all so pleased to see Nicola Wilson was awarded an MBE in the New Years Honours which is so much deserved.By the time I write next the 2025 season will be underway and I wish all owners and riders the very best of luck at whatever level they are competing and lets hope the weather is kind this year!

Strategies Description Puzzle Feeders and Treat Balls Stimulate natural foraging behavior, engage mental faculties, and slow down feeding. Groundwork Exercises Improve focus, obedience, and bonding through leading, backing up, and yielding exercises. Enrichment Toys and Novel Objects Stimulate curiosity through toys like hanging balls and traffic cones. DIY options are possible. Varied Terrain and Sensory Stimulation Improve conditioning and mental alertness with different terrains and sensory experiences. Mirror Installations Use mirrors for unique mental engagement by interacting with reflections. Clicker Training Use positive reinforcement to teach new commands, enhancing mental activity and bonding. Trail Riding and Obstacle Courses Diversify physical exercise and mental engagement through different terrains and obstacles. Teaching Color Recognition Boost focus and observation with color recognition exercises. Mirror Movements and Dance Enhance communication and trust by involving horses in mirrored movements and dance. Standing on Platforms Challenge balance and awareness to help build strength and stability. Creative Ways to Mentally Stimulate a Bum-High Young Horse Young horses, much like their human counterparts, require stimulation not just physically but mentally. Mental stimulation is key to preventing boredom, reducing stress, and enhancing learning capabilities. This is especially crucial for horses that are bum-high and growing into their frames. Here at Just Horse Riders, were passionate about the development and well-being of these magnificent creatures. Here are some creative ways to engage your young horses mind. Puzzle Feeders and Treat Balls Using puzzle feeders and treat balls can be an excellent way to provide mental stimulation. These tools simulate natural foraging behavior since they compel horses to problem-solve for their food. As the horse figures out how to access their treats, they are not only slowing down the feeding process but actively engaging their mental faculties as well. If your horse tends to gulp down meals, puzzle feeders are a smart choice to curb that tendency. Groundwork Exercises Groundwork exercises such as leading, backing up, and yielding are fantastic for horses. Not only do these exercises promote physical strength, but they also improve focus, obedience, and the bond between horse and handler. Consistent groundwork can make your horse more responsive to commands and attentive to cues, setting a solid foundation for future riding. Enrichment Toys and Novel Objects Enrich your horses environment by introducing toys like hanging balls or traffic cones. These enrichment toys stimulate curiosity and allow the horse to engage with their surroundings actively. You can even create DIY toystry hanging empty bottles filled with treats so your horse must figure out how to release the treats. Varied Terrain and Sensory Stimulation Introducing your young horse to varied terrains such as hills or water crossings not only improves physical conditioning but also heightens mental alertness. Furthermore, exposing horses to different sensory experiences like wind chimes or scented objects maintain an intriguing and engaging environment. Mirror Installations Installing horse-safe mirrors in barns or pastures can be a fascinating mental stimulant. These mirrors captivate horses as they interact with their reflections, providing a unique mental engagement opportunity. Clicker Training Clicker training is an effective technique that relies on positive reinforcement to teach new commands or tricks. This method nurtures a strong bond between horse and handler while also keeping the horse mentally active and challenged. Trail Riding and Obstacle Courses Trail riding and implementing obstacle courses into your horses routine diversify physical exercise while also engaging their mind. Horses encounter and negotiate different terrains and obstacles, which challenges and keeps them mentally agile. Teaching Color Recognition You can also teach your horse color recognition by encouraging them to choose between objects of different colors. This activity boosts focus and observation, perfect for enhancing concentration skills. Mirror Movements and Dance Have a little fun by dancing with your horse! Mirror movements require your horse to pay attention to cues and body language, thus improving communication, trust, and the overall bond with their handler. Standing on Platforms Challenge your horses balance and body awareness by having them stand on different platforms. This exercise helps build strength and stability, making it a beneficial addition to mental exercises. Conclusion With the myriad of tactics available to mentally stimulate a young horse, its important to experiment and tailor activities to the individual needs and preferences of your horse. By keeping them engaged mentally, youre ensuring they are well-rounded and less likely to develop stress-induced behaviors. Visit the Just Horse Riders website to find a variety of exciting horse treats and gifts that can further enhance these activities. Additional Resources For more tips and information on mental stimulation for horses and related equestrian products, check out the following: Keeping Minds Sharp: Secrets to Equine Mental Stimulation Activities for Smart Horses The Art of Equine Enrichment Practical Tips To keep your horse engaged, rotate their activities regularly. This helps prevent boredom. Adapt these activities according to the seasons; for instance, incorporate water play during warmer months. Always keep your approach personalized to suit your horse's individual preferences for maximum benefit. Discover our range of equestrian needs including our Jodhpur Collection and Equestrian Supplements.

Section Information Waterproof Ratings Measured in mm; 5,000-10,000 mm for light rain, 16,000 mm+ for extended exposure. Breathability Ratings Measured in g/m/day; 5,000-10,000 g/m/day for light activity, 10,000-15,000+ g/m/day for intense activities. Key Features Membrane & DWR Coating: Blocks water, beads off water. Seam Sealing: Fully taped seams essential for heavy rain. Stretch & Flexibility: For greater movement. Layering Options: Merino wool or fleece for warmth. Style & Fit: Adjustable hoods and hemlines. Recommended Coats EQUIDRY Nimbus: 20,000 mm waterproof, 14,000 g/m/day breathability. Kerrits Rain Jacket: HydroTek fabric, seam-sealed, stretch. Equetech Coats: Membrane & DWR coating. Caring for Your Coat Cleaning: Use specific products for waterproof gear. Drying: Air dry or low tumble dry. Reproofing: Regular waterproofing treatment. Conclusion Blend of technical specs and style ensures comfort and practicality. Choosing the Perfect Waterproof Coat for Equestrian Activities: Tips and RecommendationsIf you've ever been caught in a downpour during an equestrian event, you know that a waterproof coat is not just a luxuryit's a necessity. Equestrian activities demand a perfect balance of comfort, functionality, and style, especially when dealing with unpredictable weather. This comprehensive guide aims to help you find the ideal waterproof coat to keep you dry and stylish during your equestrian pursuits.Understanding Waterproof RatingsWaterproof ratings, measured in millimeters (mm), indicate how much water pressure a fabric can handle before leaking. For instance, a 5,000 mm rating means the fabric withstands a 5,000 mm water column before seepage starts. Light rain or short exposure demands 5,000 to 10,000 mm. For extended exposure, aim for 16,000 mm or higher, ensuring continued dryness.Breathability RatingsEqually vital as waterproofness is breathability, especially in active settings. Ratings are measured in grams per square meter per day (g/m/day) and signify how well a fabric allows moisture to escape. Ratings of 5,000 to 10,000 g/m/day suffice for light activity, but intense activities or longer hours demand 10,000 to 15,000 g/m/day or higher.Key Features to ConsiderMembrane and CoatingLook for jackets with a waterproof membrane and a durable water-repellent (DWR) coating. The membrane blocks water penetration, while the DWR allows water to bead off. Both features extend the jacket's lifespan by preventing saturation.Seam SealingFully taped seams are essential for keeping water at bay, especially during heavy rains or long rides, ensuring you stay completely dry throughout your activities.Stretch and FlexibilityA jacket engineered with stretch offers greater freedom of movement, essential for horse riding and handling tack without restriction.Layering OptionsVersatility in layering under your coat is crucial. Consider materials like merino wool or fleece for warmth without bulk, allowing you to adapt to changing temperatures without discomfort.Style and FitBeyond absolute function, a coat must fit well. Look for adjustable features like hoods and hemlines to customize your fit. Appearance matters toobecause who says you can't look fabulous while braving the elements?Recommended Waterproof CoatsEQUIDRY Nimbus Waterproof Pack-Away JacketBoasting a 20,000 mm waterproof rating and 14,000 g/m/day breathability, the EQUIDRY jacket provides exemplary dryness and comfort, sidestepping any reasons to avoid a damp day. Discover more about EQUIDRY Coats.Kerrits Waterproof Equestrian Rain JacketThis jacket features HydroTek fabric that is fully seam-sealed with engineered stretch, allowing for excellent mobility and comfort, no matter the activity.Equetech Waterproof CoatsEquetech's design employs a dual barrier with a membrane and DWR coating for superior moisture protection, setting the standard for equestrian gear in challenging weather.Caring for Your Waterproof CoatCleaningKeep your coat effective by washing it with a specific cleaning product designed for waterproof gear. This maintains its water-repellent properties and prolongs its life.DryingLet your coat air dry or use a tumble dryer on low to ensure the material remains intact without affecting the DWR layer.ReproofingRegularly revitalizing your coat with a waterproofing treatment preserves the DWR coating. This keeps your coat performing at its best, no matter the weather.ConclusionSelecting the perfect waterproof coat for equestrian activities is a blend of understanding technical specs and finding styles that fit your personal and functional needs. By choosing wisely, you ensure comfort, practicality, and a touch of chic in every ride. Equip yourself optimally to focus on the path ahead, unbothered by the elements.Don't forget to explore our tailored collections for Jodhpurs, Boots, Gloves, Socks, and Horse Gifts.

Welcome to Barn Banter, the official podcast of Horse Illustrated. In Barn Banter episode 28, hosts Susan Friedlandand Horse Illustrated Editor In Chief Holly Caccamise chat about Susans recent dressage test, where Holly gives her some tips on memorizing tests and what a good score looks like. Plus, Susan asks Holly about her non-horsey hobbies, which include paintingsee one of Hollys paintings below!After that barn banter, our hosts chat with Amelia Newcomb, United States Dressage Federation (USDF) gold medalist, and Mary Campbell, owner and founder of Mare Modern Goods. To end the episode, they chat with Rita Hoch, President and CEO at Nexus Equine in El Reno, Okla., about Kate, this months ASPCA Right Horse adoptable horse.Click to listen on your preferred podcast listening platform.Amelia Newcomb, USDF Gold MedalistAmelia Newcomb, Barn Banter episode 28 guest.Amelia is a USDF Gold medalist, and recipient of the Carol Lavell Prize from the Dressage Foundation. Based in Somis, Calif., her in-person training programs incorporate all aspects from starting the young horse through to the FEI levels. In addition to her training business, Amelia has a strong online coaching program with thousands of students around the world enrolled in her programs.Amelias WebsiteSubscribe to Amelia on YouTubeFollow Amelia on FacebookFollow Amelia on InstagramMary Campbell, Mare Modern Goods Owner & FounderMary Campbell, Barn Banter episode 28 guest.Mary Campbell is the owner and founder of Mare Modern Goods. She started riding at age 8, and horses were an important part of healing for her during a difficult time in adolescence. She left the sport when she went to collegebut as many do, returned to it some two decades later. While out shopping, she wondered why there were no fun, colorful brands for horse people like there were for dogs and other beloved animals. With that, an idea was born, and soon Mare Modern Goods was launched and rapidly became a successful business, selling clothing, hats, paper goods, kitchenware, bags and more to equestrians who love a good slogan and fun colors and patterns.Mare Modern Goods WebsiteFollow Mare Modern Goods on FacebookFollow Mare Modern Goods on InstagramAdoptable Horse of the Month, KatePhoto courtesy Nexus EquineKate is a very sweet mare who came into the Nexus Equine program both emaciated and with untreated EPM. Since she has been in their care, they have put significant weight on her and treated her EPM. Kate is estimated to be between 15-17 years of age. She has been nothing but excellent to work with, despite her rugged history. Kate has had a good foundation put on her and she has great ground manners. This sweet girl can use some more work with desensitizing and building a solid routine, but she will make an excellent horse in no time at all.Learn more about Kate here.In addition to Barn Banter episode 28, you can check out all previous episodes of Horse Illustrateds podcasts here.The post Barn Banter Episode 28 appeared first on Horse Illustrated Magazine.

HENRY THE MECHANICAL HORSE HAS ARRIVED AT WRC!!

Bluetooth OLD, current World number eight, and Frederic Wandres (GER) – © FEI / Leanjo de Koster 11.02.2025 The FEI oversees around 70 Rankings and Standings across all the disciplines, from World Rankings calculated on a monthly basis for Athletes, Horses and/or Combinations, to league, team and regional based standings for Series such as the Longines League of Nations™, FEI...

11.02.2025 Royal Windsor Horse Show is set to return to its traditional mid-May slot from Thursday 15 May to Sunday 18 May 2025, bringing with it an unmissable programme of spectacular acts and displays, alongside world-class international equestrian sport that will feature in the iconic Castle Arena. Following a spellbinding performance in 2024, the ‘Azerbaijan – Land of...