Ocala, FL World Equestrian Center Ocala (WEC) hosted its third international dressage competition of the year, the WEC March Dressage CDI4* presented byHampton Green Farms,with opening competition on Thursday, March 6, 2025. Hometown hero Anna Marek of Dunnellon, FL, piloted Cynthia Davilas Fayvel to victory in the Grand Prix CDI4* presented byDover Saddlery. Marek and Fayvel topped the class with a score of[...]Read MoreThe post Anna Marek and Fayvel Top Four-Star Dressage Grand Prix at World Equestrian Center Ocala appeared first on World Equestrian Center.

A man from Gateshead in Tyne and Wear has been banned from keeping donkeys for five years after severely neglecting two mares.Molly and Millie, who were mother and daughter, were unable to walk due to severely overgrown hooves, had not received dental care for several years and were both underweight when they were found in a field in Wylam near Newcastle last year.David Donaghey admitted two offences contrary to the Animal Welfare Act 2006 and was given the ban during a sentencing hearing at Newcastle Magistrates Court on Thursday 27 February. He was also fined 448 and ordered to pay 1,224 costs and a 179 victim surcharge.Not terribly keen to moveIn March last year, RSPCA Inspector Ian Smith and a welfare adviser from The Donkey Sanctuary visited the field in Haggs Bank in Wylam after receiving reports regarding the welfare of two skewbald donkeys at the location.Both animals had overgrown feet and were sitting back on their heels due to the length of their hooves. They were not terribly keen to move, saidthe inspectorin a written statement to the court.I checked the field and could not see any shelter but I did find water for them.There were two bales of hay in the field but the donkeys were reluctant to go near the bales as they were witnessed to be bullied by the larger equines.Millie was in average condition with her bones easily palpable and a body score of 2/5 according to the Code of Practice for Equines and Donkeys. Molly was in a poor state with a body score of 1.5/5 with her bones easily palpable.Photos and videos of the donkeys were sent to an equine vet who confirmed the donkeys were in a suffering state. Molly and Millie were then taken into police possession and transported to a private boarding yard.Both donkeys had severely overgrown hoovesLong term neglectThe hooves were severely overgrown and curled up at the toe, forcing the donkey to walk on a pivot as there was no correct weight-bearing surface, explained the vet in a written statement to the court about Molly, who was believed to be in her teens.She had not received adequate hoof care for a minimum period of nine months, but likely longer, and this has caused her to suffer for a minimum period of six weeks but likely much longer.Hooves should be trimmed every four to eight weeks minimum by a farrier, continued the vet. This had not been provided by the owner.Her teeth were severely sharp and had not received any dental care in many years. This had caused marked ulceration to both sides of the inner cheeks and caused pain and suffering for many months.Equines should receive dental examination and treatment where required every 12 months minimum. Some equines require dental care every six months. This has not been provided by the owner.The vet told the court that Millie, who was approximately four years old, had not received adequate hoof care for at least nine months nor appropriate dental care for a minimum of three years.Mitigating circumstancesIn an interview with Inspector Smith, Donaghey said he was devastated and embarrassed about the situation. He believedhe had looked after the donkeys to the best of his ability and they had never shown any signs of lameness and were always the greediest and the first to feed.In mitigation, magistrates were told that a farrier was due to see the donkeys but had to cancel a number of times due to the weather, and that references had been provided to say it was nothing more than well-intentioned but incompetent care.Millie has made a full recovery and is still in the RSPCAs care. Sadly, Molly died of colic at the boarding yard the following month.Images RSPCA.Related contentWhat is rainscald in horses?Common horse skin conditions in picturesDont discount rehoming: rescued mare becomes successful riding horseThis is how to body condition score a horse or ponyThe post Man whose neglect left donkeys struggling to walkand with mouth ulcers gets five-year ban appeared first on Your Horse.

While the Paso Finoa breed well known for its smooth, animated gaitwas gaining notoriety in the U.S., another closely related breed was being developed back in the country of Columbia. Called the Trote y Galope, this horse started as a cross between the Paso Fino and the Lusitano, and eventually developed into its own breed.Photo by Stunning Steeds PhotographyThe Trote y Galope inherited the spirit and sensitivity of the Paso Fino with the height and power of the Lusitano. And as a bonus, the Paso Fino and Lusitano gaits managed to combine to create something truly unique in the Trote y Galope: a smooth diagonal gait.Table of ContentsToggleCommon History of the Trote y GalopeDiagonal vs. Four-BeatThe Trote y Galope in AmericaTrote y Galope Fast FactsKey TakeawayCommon History of the Trote y GalopeAs a close cousin to the Paso Fino, the Trote y Galope has its roots in Columbia. The Paso Fino was developed there in the 1500s from horses brought to the Dominican Republic, Cuba and Jamaica by Spanish conquerors.Christopher Columbus helped establish a breeding program there with the goal of supplying Spanish soldiers with horses. These carefully bred horses were then brought to both Puerto Rico and Columbia.The horses in this breeding program carried the DNA of the Jennet, a now-extinct gaited Spanish horse. The Jennet passed along its gaits to early Paso Finos, who were also the result of crossings with Barbs and Andalusians.The Trote y Galope inherited the spirit and sensitivity of the Paso Fino with the height and power of the Lusitano. Photo by Stunning Steeds PhotographyThe Lusitano, the other breed that provided the foundation to the Trote y Galope, is descended from early Spanish horses that lived on the Iberian Peninsula during prehistoric times. The blood of these Spanish horses became mixed with that of breeds that arrived from other parts of Europe during times of war and migration. The Lusitano descended from this mix of bloodlines and continued its development in Portugal.Because of their strength and agility, Lusitanos became the favored breed of Spanish and Portuguese bullfighters.Diagonal vs. Four-BeatThe Paso Fino is famous for its lateral, four-beat gaits: the classic fino, the paso corto and the paso largo. Each of these gaits results when the horse places one hoof down at a time in a four-beat rhythm. The Trote y Galope also provides a smooth ride, but they do it differently: with diagonal footfalls.The Trote y Galope gets its name from its signature gaits: the trote and the galope. The trote is a diagonal two-beat gait without the suspension present in a standard trot. Even though its not a four-beat gait, it is comfortable to sit because there is no suspension. When watching performance of this gait, it looks as if the horse is marching. A 1-2, 1-2 rhythm is created when this gait is performed.The trote is a diagonal two-beat gait without the suspension present in a standard trot. Even though its not a four-beat gait, it is comfortable to sit because there is no suspension. Photo by Stunning Steeds PhotographyThe breeds other signature gait is the galope, which is essentially a canter with diagonal propulsion in three beats. First one hind leg strikes the ground, followed by the other hind leg and the foreleg that is diagonal to that hind leg. Finally, the other foreleg hits the ground. The sound of this movement creates a 1-2-3, 1-2-3 rhythm.The Trote y Galope in AmericaThe Trote y Galope is popular in Columbia and can be seen at Paso Fino shows throughout the nation. But in America, the breed is still growing.The small numbers of Trote y Galopes here in the U.S. are being shown in western, English, jumping, trail obstacle, dressage and Paso Fino events. They also make great mounts for recreational trail riding.Thanks to its smooth gait, the breed is often used for recreational trail riding. Photo by Stunning Steeds PhotographyThe Paso Fino Horse Association considers Trote y Galope horses a separate breed from laterally gaited Paso Finos, grouping them with two other diagonally gaited breeds related to the Paso Fino: the Trocha Pura and the Trocha y Galope.Horses registered as Paso Finos have only Paso Fino horses in their pedigrees, while the diagonally gaited horses have other breeds mixed with Paso Fino blood.Trote y Galope Fast FactsHeight: 14 to 15 handsColor: All solid horse colorsOverall Appearance: Compact body with a sloping croup and muscular chest. Neck is thick, heavily-crested, arched and held at a high angle; mane is traditionally roached.Association: Paso Fino Horse AssociationKey TakeawayNext time you visit a gaited horse show, keep an eye out for a laterally gaited Trote y Galope. Thanks to their dramatic stature and fascinating way of going, it wont be long before these horses are a common site in the gaited horse world.This article about the Trote y Galope appeared in the March 2024 issue of Horse Illustratedmagazine.Click here to subscribe!The post Breed Portrait: Trote y Galope appeared first on Horse Illustrated Magazine.

To celebrate International Womens Day 2025 and Women In Sport Week, Horse Sport Ireland sat down with Sarah Slattery to give an insight into her life and career as a Paralympian. Sarah tells us all about her career, from her cancer diagnosis at the age of eight through to her incredible performance in Paris 2024 where she finished seventh in the Paralympics Final. From sitting on her mount Savona for the first time just five weeks after giving birth, to her family stealing the hearts of everyone at the Games in Paris, Sarah goes in-depth in this fascinating story. Women in Sport Week continues, and will run through until Sunday March 9th. Sport Ireland and Horse Sport Ireland are celebrating womens achievements & promoting equality in sport. Check out the events Sport Ireland have planned on their website and keep an eye out on all our platforms over the course []

Key Topic Summary Understanding Equine Asthma Equine asthma, or "heaves," is a chronic respiratory ailment marked by airway inflammation and bronchoconstriction, often aggravated by dust and mold in hay. Reduction in Dust and Mold Steaming hay eliminates up to 99% of dust and mold spores, reducing the risk of triggering respiratory issues in horses with heaves or allergies. Improved Hydration Steamed hay is more palatable, encouraging increased water intake, which helps prevent dehydration in horses. Enhanced Digestibility The steaming process breaks down complex sugars and starches, aiding digestion for horses with sensitive digestive systems. Nutrient Retention Steaming preserves essential nutrients in hay, ensuring horses receive the necessary vitamins and minerals. Nuveq Steamer Features Includes efficient steaming system, overheating protection, large capacity (up to 35kg), and easy maintenance. Respiratory Health Steaming hay greatly reduces dust and mold inhalation, alleviating equine asthma symptoms. Preventive Measure Using steamed hay proactively can safeguard a horse's respiratory health, even if they've shown no signs of distress. Cost-Effectiveness Despite upfront costs, long-term savings from reduced veterinary bills and improved horse health make steamer a cost-effective investment. Conclusion Nuveq Steamer seen as essential for horse owners with asthmatic or allergy-prone equines, improving quality of life and overall health. When it comes to equestrian care, the Nuveq Steamer has become a game-changer for horse owners tackling respiratory issues like equine asthma. But is investing in a Nuveq Steamer truly worth it for your beloved asthmatic horse? Lets dive into everything you need to know, from understanding equine asthma to the benefits and features of this innovative hay steamer. Understanding Equine Asthma Equine asthma, also known as "heaves," is a chronic respiratory ailment. Its marked by airway inflammation and bronchoconstriction, often aggravated by airborne irritants like dust and mold found in hay. Horses are obligate nasal breathers, which makes them particularly vulnerable to respiratory issues triggered by these particles. Hence, ensuring good air quality and suitable feed is crucial for maintaining a horses respiratory health. The Science Behind Hay Steaming Using a hay steamer has proven to offer significant advantages over just feeding dry or soaked hay. Let's explore some of the main benefits of steaming hay: Reduction in Dust and Mold Steaming hay can eliminate up to 99% of dust and mold spores. This substantial reduction in airborne irritants considerably lessens the risk of triggering respiratory issues, especially in horses with heaves or allergies [2]. Improved Hydration Steamed hay tends to be more palatable, which encourages horses to consume it alongside increased water intake. This can help prevent dehydration, an essential factor for maintaining equine health [3]. Enhanced Digestibility The steaming process can break down complex sugars and starches, facilitating easier digestion for horses with sensitive digestive systems. Therefore, its an excellent addition to the dietary regimen of a horse with special digestive requirements [2]. Nutrient Retention Compared to soaking, steaming is more effective in preserving essential nutrients found in hay. This means horses get the required vitamins and minerals necessary for their overall well-being [5]. Nuveq Steamer Features at a Glance The Nuveq Steamer is designed to provide efficient and reliable performance for caring horse owners. Heres what makes it stand out: Efficient Steaming System The Nuveq Steamer incorporates a fast steaming mechanism, ensuring quick and efficient treatment for your horses hay, allowing you to maintain a routine without much disruption [5]. Overheating Protection Once the steaming cycle is complete, the boiler automatically turns off to prevent overheating, adding an extra layer of safety and energy efficiency [2][5]. Large Capacity The Nuveq Summit model can handle up to 35kg of hay, making it an excellent choice for larger stables and more frequent use [5]. Easy Maintenance Designed for user convenience, the Nuveq Steamer is easy to clean and descale, saving you time and hassle while ensuring it remains in optimal working condition. Weighing the Investment: Is It Worth It? While the initial cost of a Nuveq Steamer might be higher than other feed preparation methods, its long-term benefits easily justify the investment: Respiratory Health By substantially reducing dust and mold inhalation, steaming hay can alleviate symptoms of equine asthma and significantly reduce the likelihood of exacerbations [5]. Preventive Measure Even if your horse hasnt shown signs of respiratory distress, using steamed hay as a proactive measure can safeguard their present and future respiratory health. Cost-Effectiveness Despite the upfront cost, the decades-long savings from potential reductions in veterinary bills and improved overall health make it a cost-effective investment. Conclusion: A Worthy Addition to Your Stable? Considering the substantial benefits the Nuveq Steamer offers, horse owners with asthmatic or allergy-prone equines should see it as more than a convenienceit's an essential component in comprehensive equine care. Its ability to reduce respiratory irritants, promote hydration, and enhance digestibility can significantly elevate your horse's quality of life and overall health. Visit our homepage for more insights and the latest in equine care essentials. For related gear and apparel that complements your horse care routine, explore our Jodhpur Collection, Horse Riding Boot Collection, and much more. Every detail matters when it comes to Horse Fly Protection, Stable Rugs, or delightful Horse Treats And Gifts to spoil your equine friend.

Please be aware that a case of Foot and Mouth Disease was diagnosed in Hungary, near the Slovakian border, on March 6th. The investigation into this outbreak is ongoing. Horses cannot become infected or ill from FMD. However, they, and their transport vehicles could facilitate spread of the virus. All equine owners are encouraged to exercise additional vigilance at this time, in particular around animal and transport, hygiene and biosecurity Equine movements from Hungary or Slovakia into Ireland are strongly discouraged whilst this outbreak is ongoing. Please see the below documents for more information. FMD Info Note For Equine Stakeholders 07.03.25 Foot and mouth disease no 2 of 2025

Economically speaking, 2023 was a less than banner year for most Americans, and charitable organizations that rely on public donations to keep their operations alive and healthy were not immune to these financial realities. Hardest hit were nonprofits like equine welfare organizations, which were challenged to think outside the box in order to hold onto existing donors, attract new ones, and compensate for those who fell by the wayside.Photo by Margaret Burlingham/Adobe StockTable of ContentsToggleHow Equine Nonprofits Have Gotten CreativeCovid and InflationFailure Is Not An OptionSuccesses in the Face of ChallengesEquine Nonprofits That Help PeopleMake the Most of Your Donation to Equine NonprofitsHow Equine Nonprofits Have Gotten CreativeIn December 2023, the Heart of Phoenix Equine Rescue of West Virginia came up with a creative plan to appeal to existing donors and attract new ones without breaking the contributor bank.The campaign asked donors to send the organization a Christmas card containing between $1 and $5. In response, photos of all the cards and the collective amount of the donations they contained were to be posted on the organizations website.Heart of Phoenix launched a Christmas card campaign as a creative way to fundraise for their hay fund.As of press time, the rescue had received dozens of cards in the days leading up to Christmas, with more pouring in.They have been coming in every day, and they all contained between $1 and $5, says Suzanna Johnson, Heart of Phoenix education officer. This was a way to appeal to people who dont have a lot of money, but everybody likes to send Christmas cards.Covid and InflationAccording to the website of the RKD Group, Dallas-based consultants who use data-driven strategies to help animal welfare nonprofits find connections with donors, 2023 donation revenue is down over the past 12 to 18 months largely because givers have been hard hit by inflation.Meanwhile, the organization predicts that continued inflation and rising interest rates will stifle efforts to attract new donors this spring.Thats not news to Grace Purdom, president of the California-based Hope 4 Horses.We have been in the horse business a long time, both the nonprofit and for-profit parts, says Purdom, whose husband Scott is a trainer and clinician. Weve traveled all over the country and seen horse rescue after horse rescue closenot just in the east, but in the west, too.Hope 4 Horses adoptable off-track Thoroughbred Moon at his first show with Grace Purdum and a youth rider. He now teaches lessons and volunteer orientations. Photo courtesy Hope 4 HorsesAccording to Purdom, some of those organizations folded after Covid-connected business grants dried up.Some never came back, she says.More recently, as financial support has deteriorated, the cost of keeping horses has escalated.The same night we had a board meeting and were told that private funding wasdown between $30,000 and $40,000, we had just gotten a $25,000 hay bill, Purdom recalls.She adds that farrier and veterinarian fees have gone up this year as well.The rise in operational costs all threaten horses chances of getting the rehabilitation and aftercare they need.We see horses in need from owner surrenders, and there still is indiscriminate breeding out there, Purdom says. There were 140 horses from one animal control [agency] out therewhere do you put 140 horses?Failure Is Not An OptionAs a result, rescues have been forced to re-evaluate their own criteria for helping horses in need.It has made us focus more on desperate need cases, where in years before we could help before things [got] bad, explains Heart of Phoenix Founder and Executive director Tinia Creamer. As it is now, if a horse isnt in dire shape, donors do not step forward, so we have had to get more creative.By helping the horses in greatest need, rescues are focusing precious resources where they can make the most difference. Photo by Cavan for Adobe/Adobe StockAltogether, the circumstances have created a perfect storm for equine welfare organizations who have adopted whatever tactic they could to meet the challenges.Most are taking to social media to share the journeys of individual horses as they transition from rescue through rehabilitation to readiness for adoption. They are also engaging the local and online communities to assume a stake in the organizationssuccess, andtheyre cultivating a pool of volunteers to do everything from handling horses to office work.Inquire about volunteer opportunities at local nonprofits, even if you cant adopt. Photo by JackF/Adobe StockWhether the current economic circumstances challenging equine welfare nonprofits will subside any time soon is anybodys guess. But even if the economic picture changes, Creamer says equine welfare organizations will always be challenged to make the most of existing or potential resources at their disposal because failure is not an option.I dont see the economy improving in the short term, and a rescue has to adapt to the world we have, says Creamer. Having said that, weve made changes and continue to make them to try to be here next year and the year after. Horses depend on us here, and we owe it to them to be here.Successes in the Face of ChallengesWe reached out to the ASPCA Right Horse program to ask how their equine adoption partner network has fared despite recent economic conditions, and asked for some suggested action items you can do to help. Multiple factors are converging simultaneously, impacting shelter and rescues ability to provide care. Despite challenges, partner organizations of the ASPCA Right Horse program saw more than a5 percent increase in adoptionsin 2023 compared to 2022. Data from ASPCAs adoption site shows there is a demand for adoptable horses, including older horses, as evidenced by more than 2 million page views for adoptable horses in 2023 and over 4,000 adoption inquiries. Additionally, the ASPCA, alongside a rising number of other animal welfare organizations, are focused on services, including subsidized veterinary care and resources, to help keep equines safely in their homes and out of shelters and rescues. The ASPCA encourages anyone interested to support their local animal welfare organizations by adopting, volunteering their time, donating supplies, or becoming foster caregivers. To find an organization in your area to support, visit myrighthorse.org.Equine Nonprofits That Help PeopleFor equine assisted services (EAS) nonprofits, humans depend on the horses, too.The Connected Horse launched in 2015 as pilot projects at Stanford University and the University of California at Davis. It pairs senior horses, some rescued or surrendered, with people living with Alzheimers disease and other dementias and their caregivers to help them manage stress and navigate the flood of physical and emotional ramifications connected with the conditions.In spite of the economy, important work like that of Connected Horse goes on. At CH, horses are paired with people living with Alzheimers disease as they brush, walk, and visit with them under the watchful eyes of program personnel. Photo courtesy Connected HorseThrough the program, human participants connect with the horses as they brush, walk, and visit with them under the watchful eyes of program personnel.The horse is really the teacher, says Paula Hertel, Connected Horse co-founder.More than 60 pairs of patients and caregivers connected with equines during the first three years of the university pilot programs. Another 186 people took part in Connect Horse programs at private partner barns, including those that rescue, receive surrenders and place adoptable horses.According to co-founderNancy Schier Anzelmo, Connected Horseprograms are supported by grants, donations from program participants and their families, and private supporters. And while she admits that the recent economy has affected the fundraising outlook for almost all nonprofits, the mission of equine-focused organizations is critical for the horses and for the humans involved.Horses, especially older horses, need purpose just as people do, she says. Our country needs to support programs to serve [people] in need right now as well as older horses, or horses who cannot be used for sport anymore. Its very personal, and making connections in nature and with others is a key to building a community that serves each other.Make the Most of Your Donation to Equine NonprofitsThis year a simple trip to the supermarket was an economic shock for many across the country. At the same time, the nonprofit organizations that help horses are experiencing the same trauma every time they order hay, purchase grain, or call for the services of farriers and veterinarians.But many of those who are challenged by the economy themselves still want to support horses in need however they can.Grace Purdom, executive director of Hope 4 Horses, shares her best advice for doing that.First, we always recommend that people donate locally, she says. Visit a local rescue organization and learn about what that organization does and how it does it.For that, Purdom recommends that prospective donors sit in on an orientation session that many organizations host for new volunteers, new donors, and members of the public.Operators use orientation sessions to talk about the organizations mission, its facility, how many horses they have, who they have on staff, and how many volunteers it has, she says.Then take a tour of the facility. Horses onsite at effective rescues should appear to be in various stages of rehabilitation and look happy and healthy under the staffs care.During the tour, ask the staff guide lots of questions, especially if a horse appears to be thin.The staff could say that the horse just arrived 30 days ago and is in rehab, says Purdom. The point is to ask open questions and expect honest answers; a legitimate rescue is an open book.Finally, do a bit more research before making that donation. First, make sure that the organization is a legitimate 501(c)(3) under federal tax rules. That designation recognizes the organization as a nonprofit, which means it is exempt from federal income tax. As a result, contributions to 501(c)(3) organizations are tax-deductible for donors.Finally, just before writing that donation check, visit charity evaluation websites, such as GuideStar, which allows nonprofits to share information such as address, mission, key leadership, employee identification numbers, tax status and Return of Organization Exempt From Income Tax (IRS form 990) forms for three fiscal years.No matter how large or small they are, donations are very important to all of us, says Purdom.Further Reading:Dealing with Inflation as an EquestrianThis article about the state of equine traffics appeared in the March 2024 issue of Horse Illustratedmagazine.Click here to subscribe!The post The State of Equine Nonprofits appeared first on Horse Illustrated Magazine.

Ocala, FL This Friday, Hunter 1 hosted the tenth Hunter Derby Day of the 2025 Winter Spectacular Show Series, seeing 67 competitors across three derby classes: the $20,000Golden Ocala36-39 Hunter Derby, the $15,000UF Veterinary HospitalUSHJA National 3 Open Hunter Derby, and $15,000 USHJA National 3 Jr/Am Hunter Derby. This weeks course designer, Kevin Holowack, built flowing tracks complete with impressive jumps such as a[...]Read MoreThe post Daniel Geitner and Easy Money Make Easy Work of the $20,000Golden Ocala36-39 Hunter Derby appeared first on World Equestrian Center.

Wilmington, Ohio It was a winning day for Michaella DelGreco and Sophie Carlins Cabochon (Cabardino) in the R+L Arena at World Equestrian Center Wilmington. The duo flowed around Robert Bartons tracks showing off their style to secure victory in the $15,000 2nd Round Equestrian USHJA National Open Hunter Derby of Winter Spring Forward. The 10-year-old Warmblood mare is a barn favorite for the[...]Read MoreThe post Michaella DelGreco & Cabochon Win $15,000 2nd Round Equestrian National Hunter Derby at Winter Spring Forward appeared first on World Equestrian Center.

March 7, 2025 Ocala, FL The Grand Prix Freestyle CDI4* presented by Dover Saddlery was the highlight of the week on Friday, March 7, 2025, at World Equestrian Center Ocala (WEC) during the WEC March Dressage CDI4* presented by Hampton Green Farms. Victory in the class went to Julio Mendoza Loor (ECU) and Jewels Goldstrike, his Olympic partner that he owns with[...]Read MoreThe post Julio Mendoza Loor and Jewels Goldstrike Step Up to Freestyle Victory at World Equestrian Center Ocala appeared first on World Equestrian Center.