Key Points Details Understanding Aging Horses Signs of aging appear between 15-18 years; dental issues and digestive problems due to a declining immune system. The Importance of a Balanced Diet Digestible Fiber: Offer softer options like chopped hay or soaked beet pulp. Low Starch and Sugar: Select low-starch hay for horses prone to laminitis. Senior Feeds: Higher quality protein for muscle and immune health. Regular Veterinary Check-Ups Physical Exams: Comprehensive health examination. Dental Exams: Prevents weight loss and feeding issues. Body Condition Scoring: Monitor weight and body condition. Vaccinations and Deworming: Protects against diseases and parasites. Additional Care Strategies Hoof Care: Regular trimming and shoeing to maintain hoof balance. Gentle Exercise: Light turnouts or short rides to maintain fitness. Stable Environment: Adequate bedding and temperature regulation. Conclusion Tender care through a balanced diet, routine vet check-ups, and proper living conditions ensures aging horses remain healthy and happy. Caring for Aging Horses: How a Balanced Diet and Regular Check-Ups Can Make a Difference Aging horses, much like vintage wine or a well-worn pair of boots, need a little extra care and attention to ensure they remain in tip-top shape. Understanding their changing needs, providing a balanced diet, and ensuring regular veterinary check-ups play pivotal roles in maintaining their health and happiness. Understanding Aging Horses As our equine companions enter the twilight of their years, they face numerous challenges that weren't present in their younger days. Typically, signs of aging begin appearing between 15 and 18 years of age, with noticeable changes like dental issues and digestive problems cropping up due to a declining immune system. The Importance of a Balanced Diet Feeding older horses requires keen attention to dietary components, ensuring they receive adequate levels of protein, fiber, vitamins, and minerals. Heres how you can tweak their diet to better suit their needs: Digestible Fiber Consuming large amounts of hay might have been pure bliss for your horse in his prime, but aging often brings along dental challenges. Offer softer, easily digestible options like chopped hay or soaked beet pulp. Low Starch and Sugar Older horses prone to laminitis or metabolic syndromes may benefit from a low-starch and low-sugar diet. Select hay thats been tested for starch contentwe all like special-treatment hay! Senior Feeds Think of senior feeds as dietary gold mines. They boast higher quality protein and vitamins conducive to muscle and immune health. But remember, not all seniors need these feeds; tailor your approach to their unique health status. Regular Veterinary Check-Ups As cherished members of the family, older horses deserve regular attention from the vet. Regular check-ups consist of: Physical Exams These involve a comprehensive listening sessionits not a horse podcast but rather a health examination of the heart, lungs, and digestive tract. Dental Exams Frequent dental check-ups can prevent the weight loss and profitless feeding that come with dental problems. Lets prevent horse gnashers from becoming horse nightmares. Body Condition Scoring Continually monitor weight and body condition so your horse doesn't become equine Twiggy or Mr. Plump. Vaccinations and Deworming Like an annual flu shot or spring cleaning, staying current with vaccinations and deworming helps protect against diseases and parasites. Additional Care Strategies for Aging Horses Despite the gray hairs, these patron horses can still shine bright with some added strategies. Hoof Care Your horse may dream of being a dance star, but regular trimming and shoeing are essential to maintain good hoof balance and reduce joint stress. Gentle Exercise Who needs a personal trainer when a gentle exercise routine keeps those joints dancing? Light turnouts or short rides help maintain fitness and joint lubrication. Stable Environment Most horses prefer manor houses, but a stable with adequate bedding and the right temperature will do for older horses dealing with temperature regulation. Conclusion If humans treat old age like a fine wine (a tad quirky but generally worth savoring), our equine friends deserve the same respect. Tender care through a balanced diet, routine vet check-ups, and spot-on living conditions will help keep them healthy, serene, and trotting happily into the sunset.```html```

A rider whose horse suffered catastrophic injuries after being scared by a group of dogs has called for better public awareness of the danger dogs pose to horses and their riders. It comes after a petition was created asking for an amendment to the Dangerous Dogs Act to better protect horses.Leanne Bathurst, who trains and produces horses at her yard JMB Equestrian in Shobdon, Herefordshire, was hacking with another rider on Saturday 1 February when the incident took place.She was on her grey mare Rainey and the rider (who Leanne does not want to name) was on Theo, a bay gelding whom Leanne planned to event this summer before selling in the autumn.Theo bolted onto a main road and was in a collision with a pick-up truck, causing him multiple broken bones and other injuries. He had to be put down at the scene.The dog owners walked awayLeanne explained: We were on a country road at the back of my yard and I could hear dogs in a field behind a fence and a hedge, its a training field where they do dog agility. The people were standing on the mound and they could see the horses coming.The horses have been past these dogs before but they were acting a bit spooky this day and four or five dogs were going at the fence, jumping, barking, going up and down the fence and rustling in the bushes.I said to my rider, lets cross to the other verge. We did so and carried on a bit further and then the horse behind [Theo] bolted for home and into the road. This was because the dogs were still going and the people had not recalled them.I didnt hear Theo bolting because we were on a grass verge, but when I turned round in the saddle to suggest we trotted on to get away from the dogs they were gone. I saw the pick-up truck impact with something but could not see what had happened at first and then I got a glimpse through the hedge.Then my horse [Rainey] spun and jumped the hedge away from the dogs, out of sheer panic due to the noise of the impact.I was absolutely helpless, being cantered off with into a field away from the incident. I threw myself off whilst screaming for my rider to see if he was OK. It was the worst feeling not being able to get to my rider and the horse.As I turned round I could see the dog owners round up their dogs and walk away. They did not come to help.Dog owners not deemed responsibleTheos rider was thrown onto the truck windscreen but escaped without serious injury, as did the driver of the pick-up, but Theos injuries were not survivable.I wont forget the injuries I witnesses, said Leanne, who is undergoing counselling to deal with the trauma of the incident.The horses are my pride and joy, but I could not get on a horse for seven days after this. Ive ridden for some of the worlds top eventers, so Im not a nervous rider, but it has had a massive impact upon me.Police attended the scene but as the dogs did not leave the field their owners are not deemed responsible for the accident, says Leanne.However, she feels it should stand as a lesson in how important it is to have your dog under control around horses.I want it to create awareness of how horses are big animals and they are dangerous. I want people with dogs to be aware of the consequences they can cause, not only to the horse but it could have been a million times worse my rider could have died. Thats a human life. Imagine me having to tell his mum and dad that hed been involved in an accident.Leannes story is just one of a number recently where dogs have caused injuries to or the death of horses.In January, Loki, a palomino pony, bolted into the road and was hit by a car, shattering all four legs, after being frightened by a dog that was off the lead. To view the petition asking for an amendment to the Dangerous Dogs Act, click here.Main image Shutterstock (stock image)Related contentPetition set up with aim of updating Dangerous Dogs Act to better protect horsesNumber of incidents of dogs attacking horses is on the rise, warns safety expertPolice searching for the owner of a loose dog after pony is killed on the roadOwner pays tribute to pony who died on the road after being spooked by loose dogOwner of horse killed after dog attacked in its field backs dangerous dogs petitionThe post My rider could have died: horse suffers catastrophic injuries after being scared by dogs appeared first on Your Horse.

Section Key Points Acknowledging Your Grief Allow yourself to feel and validate your grief. Common emotions: Sadness, Guilt, Anger, Anxiety. Strategies for Coping 1. Focus on Positive Memories: Cherish joyous times. 2. Reach Out for Support: Share feelings; join support groups. 3. Memorialize Your Pet: Create a memorial. 4. Take Care of Yourself: Maintain self-care. 5. Consider Professional Help: Seek counseling if needed. Understanding the Grief Process Grief is personal and variable. Common stages include Shock, Pain, Anger, Depression, Adjustment, New Normal, and Acceptance. Supporting Surviving Pets Maintain routine and provide comfort. Consult a vet for persistent behavioral issues. Deciding When to Get Another Pet No rush for a new pet; wait until emotionally prepared. Conclusion Embrace grief, cherish memories, seek support. Healing is personal and has no timeline. Additional Resources Pet Compassion Careline, Association for Pet Loss and Bereavement, ASPCA Pet Loss Hotline, Pet Bereavement Support Service. Coping with the Loss of a Beloved Pet: Navigating Grief and Finding Peace Losing a pet is an immense emotional journey that touches the hearts of many. Pets offer more than companionship; they become cherished members of our families. When they leave us, the pain can be profound. This guide will help you navigate this difficult terrain, find peace, and cherish the incredible bond you shared. Acknowledging Your Grief Allow yourself to feel. It is important to recognize your emotions and validate the grief you are experiencing. Suppressing these feelings can only complicate the healing process. Remember, grieving a pet is a natural reaction to losing a cherished companion. Common Emotions Experienced When a pet passes away, these are some emotions you might encounter: Sadness and Emotional Despair: It's common to feel heartbroken and overwhelmed [2][3]. Guilt: You may question past decisions but remember you acted with the best intentions [2][5]. Anger: This could be directed at yourself or circumstances. Understand that these emotions stem from hurt [2][5]. Anxiety and Fear: The uncertainty about life without your pet can be daunting, but give yourself time [2][5]. Strategies for Coping 1. Focus on Positive Memories Avoid lingering on the final moments. Instead, cherish the joyous times you had together. Happy memories can be a source of comfort [1][5]. 2. Reach Out for Support Share your feelings with those who understand. Support can come from friends, family, or pet loss groups. Online resources like the Pet Compassion Careline are available for support [1][4]. 3. Memorialize Your Pet Creating a memorial is a healing way to honor your pet. Consider a photo album, planting a tree, or memorial stone [1][5]. 4. Take Care of Yourself Your well-being is crucial during grief. Ensure you eat well, rest adequate, and stay active. Self-care supports emotional regulation [4][5]. 5. Consider Professional Help If the grief becomes unmanageable, consider reaching out to a professional counselor. Some specialize in pet bereavement [4][5]. Understanding the Grief Process Grief is not uniform; it ebbs and flows. Be patient with yourself through this journey. Some days, you might experience relief, while others bring sorrow. This variability is part of the healing [2][5]. The Seven Stages of Pet Loss Grief While the grief journey is personal, some stages are common: Shock and Denial Pain and Guilt Anger and Bargaining Depression and Loneliness Adjusting to Life Without Your Pet Finding a New Normal Acceptance and Hope Remember, these stages aren't sequential nor universal [4]. Supporting Surviving Pets Your other pets may mourn as well. Maintain their routine and provide comfort. Should behavioral issues persist, consult a veterinarian to exclude health concerns [1]. Deciding When to Get Another Pet There's no rush in finding a new pet. Each pet has a unique place in your heart, and replacements aren't possible. Wait until you're emotionally prepared, perhaps considering adoption from a local shelter [1]. Conclusion Traversing the loss of a beloved pet takes patience, understanding, and support. By embracing your grief, cherishing memories, and reaching out for help, peace can indeed be found. Remember, your feelings are valid, and healing doesn't adhere to a strict timeline. For additional resources: Pet Compassion Careline: 24/7 support Association for Pet Loss and Bereavement: Online support groups ASPCA Pet Loss Hotline: For U.S. residents at 877-474-3310 Pet Bereavement Support Service: UK based at 0800 096 6606 Explore the Jodhpur collection, Horse Riding Boot collection, Horse Riding Gloves collection, and variety of Horse Treats and Gifts today.```html```

Welcome to Barn Banter, the official podcast of Horse Illustrated. In Barn Banter episode 29, hosts Susan Friedlandand Horse Illustrated Editor In Chief Holly Caccamise chat with horse trainer and TV personality Julie Goodnight. Plus, tune in as they talk with sponsored guest Stoney Stamper, National Sales Director for Hart Trailer.To end the episode, Susan and Holly chat with the Humane Society of Ventura County about Ariana, this months ASPCA Right Horse adoptable horse.Barn Banter Episode 29 SponsorFor over 30 years, Adequan i.m. (polysulfated glycosaminoglycan) has been trusted by veterinarians, trainers and horse owners. Ask your veterinarian if Adequan is right for your horse. Visit Adequan.com to learn more. Adequan. Start with it. Stay with it.Learn more about Adequan here.Julie Goodnight, Horse Trainer and TV PersonalityBarn Banter episode 29 guest Julie Goodnight. Photo by Megan FischerJulie Goodnight established a connection with horses at a young age, and after a successful run as a youth rider on jumping horses, she galloped her way through college riding racehorses. For nearly four decades, shes been at home in the Colorado Rockies, pursuing wilderness sports and riding cow horses. Founding her training business in 1985, Julies reputation as a horse trainer grew far and wide. In 2008, she began producing Horse Master with Julie Goodnight, a popular how-to horse training series that aired weekly for more than a decade, with 260 episodes. She now travels the world to produce compelling horse TV, and educates horse owners everywhere through her online training programs at JulieGoodnight.com/Academy.Julies WebsiteFollow Julie on InstagramSubscribe to Julie on YouTubeSponsored Guest: Stoney Stamper, National Sales Director for Hart TrailerPhoto courtesy Hart TrailerEstablished in 1968, Hart Trailer LLC remains privately owned and operated by the Hart family. Over the years, Hart has maintained a reputation for manufacturing quality trailers while becoming friends with our customers. Safety, reliability, convenience, eye appeal and excellence are engineered into every feature of a Hart Trailer.Hart Trailer WebsiteFollow Hart Trailer on FacebookFollow Hart Trailer on InstagramSubscribe to Hart Trailer on YouTubeAdoptable Horse of the Month, ArianaPhoto courtesy Humane Society of Ventura CountyAriana is a gorgeous 16-year-old Arabian mare who was surrendered to the Humane Society of Venture County in late December of 2023 after her previous owner could no longer care for her. The HSVC staff adores her sweet face and even sweeter personality. Shes a very special girl due to her lack of teeth, but that doesnt stop her from doing the things she loves.Though she is not trained to ride, Ariana has great ground manners and aims to please her handler. Ariana has had a saddle on before, but she is not broke to ride. However, this pretty girl knows how to longe in the round pen and gets along with most other horses. HSVC thinks she would make a great pasture buddy and could also do well as a therapy horse, where she would bring joy to everyone.Learn more about Ariana here.In addition to Barn Banter episode 29, you can check out all previous episodes of Horse Illustrateds podcasts here.The post Barn Banter Episode 29 appeared first on Horse Illustrated Magazine.