Ocala, FL The final Hunter Derby Friday of the 2025 Winter Spectacular Show Series was set on a beautiful day with great competition in the WEC Stadium. Over 100 entries contested for victory in four hunter derbies: the $75,000Golden Ocala36-39 Hunter Derby, the $75,000UF Veterinary HospitalUSHJA National 3 Open Hunter Derby, the $37,500 USHJA National 3 Jr Hunter Derby, and the $37,500 USHJA National[...]Read MoreThe post Daniel Geitner and Walk The Moon Defy Gravity in $75,000 Golden Ocala 36-39 Hunter Derby appeared first on World Equestrian Center.

A herd of rescue donkeys in Wales have created an ideal habitat for species of rare mushrooms, flowers and insects, after they helped to transform the overgrown, rough grazing where they live into anSite of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI).Residents at Snowdonia Donkeys, a sanctuary located at Moelyci near Bangor, have been instrumental in the development of 54 species of rare mushrooms, including the Crimson Waxcap, andthree species of plant-eating flowerswhich have begun growing on the land where they live.Also found in their pasture were a fly and a beetle found nowhere else in Wales, as well as lizards, bats, three species of butterflies and yellow ants.The charitys founders Ruth and Chris Stronge bought the 13-acre plot of land, which had previously been used as a rubbish dump, as a home for the donkeys in 2019.Perfect pastureThe land here was very poor and only fit for rough grazing and for use as a rubbish dump so it hasnt been ploughed for over 200 years which makes it ideal for the Waxcap mushrooms and for many other species, explained Ruth.The rare Crimson Waxcap mushrooms.The land was extremely overgrown but the donkeys, with help from some of the charitys volunteers, have cleared the site of brambles and bushes and transformed it into the perfect habitat forthe mushrooms as well as the other rare flora, fauna and insects.The pasture was recently granted SSSI status with itsSSSI citation stating, parts of Moelyci are a living museum of what Welsh hill farms were like before the Second World War.New arrivalA 40-foot storage unit will be added to the site later this month asWaless biggest self-storage company, Lock Stock,donate one of their units to the charity to use as a shelter for the donkeys as well as a store.As a business, we like to help out local charities in the areas where we work and we have a strong presence in Bangor where we have three sites and this is definitely a very deserving cause which is doing so much good work, said Lee Hanson, Lock Stocks North West Wales area manager.Snowdonia Donkeys isa centre of excellence for the promotion of the health and well-being of people and donkeysandcurrently looks after 18 donkeys. As well as being a refuge for donkeys, the charity also offers a safe space forchildren and adults to escape their worries and work with the donkeys to build their confidence.The charity runs a series of events throughout the week helped by the volunteers, ranging from mother and toddler groups, classes in donkey care, classes for people with learning difficulties and walkers who just want to enjoy the countryside.A local optionIve always loved donkeys and we started with two of our own which we used to take to events to raise money for the big donkey sanctuary down in Sidmouth in Devon, said Ruth.Then we heard that two of the beach donkeys from Llandudno were retiring to go all the way down there and we just thought that they could have stayed in North Wales so we started the charity 12 years ago and its just grown.People might be a bit afraid of being around horses but they tend not to be so afraid of donkeys which are wonderful animals in their own right.Images and video Snowdonia Donkeys.Further readingThis is what a horses ear positions tell you about how theyre feelingHow to take care of a horseHow to tell if a horse is happyHorse owners guide to equine health insurance and vet fees coverThe post Rescue donkeys help create ideal habitat for rare fungi, flora and fauna appeared first on Your Horse.

Topic Key Points Understanding Hoof Imbalance Misalignment can cause uneven wear and strain on tendons, leading to lameness. Broken-back hoof axis increases strain on the DDFT. Causes of Hoof Imbalance Poor Trimming and Shoeing Practices Limb Conformation Injuries Managing a Lost Shoe Assess the hoof for cracks or chips. Use a hoof boot for protection. Consult a farrier immediately. Preventing Hoof Imbalance Regular Trimming Proper Shoeing Monitor Hoof Health Common Hoof Issues Abscesses Thrush Navicular Syndrome Additional Resources Mad Barn: Insights into hoof issues The Horse: Foot imbalances and lameness Merck Veterinary Manual: Detailed info on hoof imbalances Equine hoof health is an essential aspect of ensuring the overall well-being and performance of a horse. When hoof imbalances arise, they can lead to various complications including lameness and discomfort. A pivotal problem often faced by horse owners is a lost shoe, which can worsen underlying hoof structure issues. This blog post provides tips and insights into navigating equine hoof imbalances and effectively managing a lost shoe. Understanding Hoof Imbalance The hoof's structure must be properly aligned for a horse to remain healthy and perform optimally. Misalignment in either the sagittal or medial-to-lateral planes can lead to uneven wear and undue strain on the tendons and ligaments, ultimately causing lameness. For instance, a broken-back hoof axis results in the hoof staying on the ground during a step longer than it should, increasing strain on the deep digital flexor tendon (DDFT). Causes of Hoof Imbalance Poor Trimming and Shoeing Practices: Improper trimming or shoeing can alter the hoof's natural alignment. Limb Conformation: Certain conformational issues can make horses more susceptible to hoof imbalances. Injuries: Injuries to the distal limb area can also result in hoof imbalances. Managing a Lost Shoe Upon losing a shoe, it's vital to act swiftly to protect the hoof from further damage. Immediate Steps Assess the Hoof: Check for any cracks or chips that may have resulted from the lost shoe. Protect the Hoof: Using a hoof boot or another protective covering can help prevent further damage until a farrier can replace the shoe. Consult a Farrier: Schedule a visit with a farrier immediately to have the shoe replaced and the hoof checked. Preventing Hoof Imbalance Regular Trimming: Regular trims help maintain proper alignment and prevent uneven wear. Proper Shoeing: Choose shoes that fit well and suit the horse's specific hoof type and activity level. Monitor Hoof Health: Regular inspections for signs of imbalance or problems, such as cracks or abscesses, are crucial. Common Hoof Issues Related to Imbalance Being aware of common hoof issues can help in identifying potential imbalances early on. Abscesses Abscesses are painful infections within the hoof that cause sudden lameness. They need prompt attention to avoid further health issues. Thrush Thrush is a common hoof disease that can lead to significant discomfort and potential lameness if left untreated. Navicular Syndrome This condition affects the heel of the hoof and can result in lameness and alterations in the horse's gait. Additional Resources For those seeking more information on improving hoof health, the following resources are invaluable: Mad Barn: Hoof Problems in Horses - Offers helpful insights into common hoof issues and their prevention. The Horse: Foot Imbalances and Hind-Limb Lameness - Provides a closer look at the impact of hoof imbalances on hind-limb lameness. Merck Veterinary Manual: Hoof Imbalance in Horses - Delivers detailed information on hoof imbalances and their effects. Conclusion Maintaining equine hoof health requires a proactive approach in identifying and managing hoof imbalances and reacting swiftly when a shoe is lost. Regular maintenance, including trimming and proper shoeing, is key to preventing severe issues. This not only keeps the horse healthy but also ensures they are always ready to gallop into the sunset in style.```html```

Section Key Points Thoroughbred Nutrition Needs Sensitive, high metabolism, tailored diet essential to avoid weight loss. Key Nutritional Components Forage First: Provide essential fiber and support digestive health. Controlled Calories: Use slow-release energy sources. Quality Protein: Vital for muscle development. Balanced Nutrients: Prevent deficiencies with a complete vitamin and mineral premix. Practical Feeding Strategies Forage-Based Diets: Pasture and hay access as primary nutrition sources. Supplements and Concentrates: Balancers, chaff, and conditioning feeds to support calorie needs. Additional Tips Monitor and adjust the diet based on body condition. Conduct health checks for dental issues and parasites. Consult a professional for dietary advice if needed. Overall Approach Combine science with observation; maintain conditions for optimal athletic and mental performance. Mastering the Art of Feeding Lean ThoroughbredsA lean Thoroughbred represents the pinnacle of equine athleticism. Known for their speed and agility, these majestic creatures require a tailored feeding strategy to maintain their health and performance. Understanding their unique nutritional needs is crucial for any horse owner or enthusiast. In this guide, we'll explore the essentials of feeding a lean Thoroughbred and provide practical tips and strategies to keep them in optimal condition.Understanding Thoroughbred Nutrition NeedsThoroughbreds are inherently sensitive and prone to weight loss, necessitating a specialized diet that not only supports their physical state but also their mental well-being. Due to their high metabolism, these horses burn through energy quickly, requiring dedicated dietary management, especially when engaged in rigorous activities.Key Nutritional Components Forage First: Any equine diet should prioritize high-quality forage, such as pasture or hay. Forage is crucial for providing essential fiber, promoting digestive health and maintaining a robust gut. Aim for forage to contribute at least 1.5% of the horse's body weight in dry matter daily. Controlled Calories: Lean Thoroughbreds might require supplementary feeds to sustain body condition. Opt for slow-release energy sources like beet pulp and soy hulls, which avoid over-excitation compared to high-starch grains. Quality Protein: For those in heavy work or growth phases, quality protein is vital for muscle development. Feeds packed with soybean meal or legumes like lupins are excellent protein sources. Balanced Nutrients: Providing a complete vitamin and mineral premix can ward off deficiencies leading to poor coat quality and weak bones.Practical Feeding StrategiesForage-Based Diets Pasture Access: Whenever feasible, allow your Thoroughbred to graze in the pasture for natural nourishment and mental engagement. If transitioning off a track, do so gradually to prevent digestive upset. Hay Access: Ensure free-choice access to hay, selecting nutritious varieties like mixed alfalfa-grass for those needing weight gain. Mature grass hay works well for easy keepers.Supplements and Concentrates Balancers and Chaff: Utilize a low-calorie balancer to fulfill nutritional needs, and mix it with simple chaff to slow down the rate of eating, minimizing digestive risks. Conditioning Feeds: To support extra calorie needs, a conditioning cube or calorie mash can be beneficial. Observing your horse's response and adjusting accordingly is key to avoiding overfeeding.Example DietsConsider this diet for a 500 kg (1,100 lb) Thoroughbred engaging in light exercise: Feed Maintenance Diet Weight Gain Diet Hay Free-choice (~11 kg / 24 lbs) Free-choice (~11 kg / 24 lbs) Beet Pulp 450 grams (dry weight) 450 grams (dry weight) Salt 30 grams (2 tablespoons) 30 grams (2 tablespoons) Omneity Pellets 200 grams (2 scoops) 200 grams (2 scoops) W-3 Oil 120 mL (4 oz) 120 mL (4 oz) This diet offers a balanced blend of energy and protein while supporting digestive health.Additional Tips for Lean Thoroughbreds Monitor and Adjust: Regularly evaluate your horse's body condition and adjust the diet as required. It can be a trial-and-error process to find the perfect balance. Health Checks: Rule out any health impediments like dental problems, parasites, or ulcers which can hinder weight gain. Consult a Professional: If uncertainty looms over your horse's diet, seeking advice from an equine nutritionist can provide clarity and precision in meeting specific dietary needs.Maintaining Health and SerenityKeeping a lean Thoroughbred in top condition is a continuous journey, blending science with observation and intuition. By focusing on a robust nutritional foundation and consistently monitoring their well-being, you set the stage for them to thrive both athletically and mentally. This ain't your typical horse-and-pony showit's a testament to the commitment and care that goes into managing these equine athletes.For further reading on optimizing your Thoroughbred's diet, check out resources at EquiPepper. Also, for more equestrian supplements tailored to your needs, visit our Everyday Horse Vitamins & Supplements collection.Equestrian Supplies and MoreBeyond nutrition, Just Horse Riders is your go-to destination for a wide range of equestrian equipment and apparel. From our extensive Jodhpur Collection to the essential Horse Riding Boot Collection, we are dedicated to enhancing your riding experience. Explore diverse ranges, including horse riding gloves and socks, or gift your equine friend with items from our Horse Treats And Gifts collection.Mastering a Balanced ApproachIn conclusion, the nutritional care of a lean Thoroughbred blends science, patience, and often a touch of humoras any horse owner will attest. By following these guidelines and adjusting feeding strategies as needed, you can ensure your Thoroughbred maintains optimal health and performance. Curious about rugs or protection? Don't forget to check out our Stable Rugs, Turnout Rugs, and Horse Fly Protection collections for more insights!```html```

A healthy respiratory system is crucial for peak performance in sport horses. | FEI/Shannon BrinkmanBreathing properly is a crucial task for a sport horse. If he cant breathe well, he isnt going to be successful. All horses working at 60% of their maximum capacity experience hypoxemialow levels of oxygen in the bloodbut those with respiratory disease become even more hypoxemic.Its the way they are built, says Emmanuelle van Erck-Westergren, DVM, PhD, Dipl. ECEIM, ECVSMR, owner of Equine Sports Medicine Practice, in Waterloo, Belgium. She spoke about respiratory challenges in sport horses at the 2025 IGNITE Sports Science for the Olympic Disciplines Seminar, held Jan. 12-13, in Ocala, Florida.How Horses BreatheThe horses respiratory system differs from those of many other animals. They can only breathe through their nose, so its more difficult for them to shift air in and out of their lungs than it is for humans, who can switch to mouth breathing when necessary. They also have a small larynx, and moving a column of air through it consumes energy.Racing trotters or pacers working at speed take large breaths every few strides, but horses cantering or galloping cant. They must breathe in and out at the same rate as their strides. This is due to respiratory-locomotor coupling, the synchronized relationship between breathing and stride, where one breath is taken with each stride at a canter and gallop.How Do Respiratory Issues Affect Sport Horse Performance?Horses are massively muscular, said van Erck-Westergren, making them built to be oxygen deficient. When you lack oxygen, you get tired, she said. The resulting muscle fatigue leads to a decline in performance.It takes a lot of energy to move oxygen as the horses speed increases. The negative pressures applied to the throat can become considerable when the horse canters because no bony structures exist to keep the throat open. The larynx, located at the back of the throat, essentially serves as the dividing mark between the upper and lower respiratory tracts. When the horse is breathing, but not swallowing, there is an open channel into the trachea. After passing through the trachea, inspired air arrives at the bronchial trees within the lungs.In horses with partial paralysis of the larynx, the more the horse needs air, the more the larynx closes, van Erck-Westergren explained.Signs of respiratory conditions are not always obvious. There might not be loud breathing noises, cough, or nasal discharge. The only signs could be premature fatigue during exertion or defensive behavior such as exercise intolerance or a reluctance to work. The environment and competitions can challenge horses, making diagnosis tricky, she said. Veterinarians commonly use controlled exercise testing to investigate a problem, observing how a horse recovers. If they suspect a respiratory condition, veterinarians can conduct further diagnostics, including bloodwork and an endoscopy while the horse is at rest or exercising.Take-Home MessageThe horses respiratory system naturally operates near its limits, so even a mild breathing problem in a sport horse often results in poor performance. Proper diagnosis and treatment are required for the horse to be able to return to peak form.

Wilmington, Ohio It was another victorious day for Richard Rinehart, claiming the win in the $30,000 OSU Galbreath Equine Center Grand Prix at World Equestrian Center Wilmington Winter Classic 15 aboard The Diamant Rose Z. Rinehart felt that Michael Pegg (CAN) set properly for the class, ultimately with a jump-off ending in a footrace between Rinehart and Izzy Beisel. Mike set a very[...]Read MoreThe post Richard Rinehart Continues Winning Ways in the $30,000 OSU Galbreath Equine Grand Prix at Winter Classic 15 appeared first on World Equestrian Center.

The Underwriting Exchange Irish Show Jumping team fought their way to a fourth-place finish in the Longines League of Nations second leg at the World Equestrian Centre overnight in Ocala, Florida. It was a case of what might have been for Michael Blake and his team as Ireland were left to rue errors as a 13-fault finish meant they were just touched off the podium by less than a second, having finished level with Belgium. Host nation USA landed the spoils on four faults after anchor rider McLain Ward jumped a clear round under pressure on Ilex to see off Germany in second by a solitary time penalty. Having been in sixth position after round one, the Irish fought back and the result means they remain on top of the overall standings on 170 points, having won leg one in Abu Dhabi. Blake, while happy with the eventual finish, cut []

Ocala, FL The United States team of Lillie Keenan, Laura Kraut, Aaron Vale, and McLain Ward emerged victorious on home soil in the $770,000 Longines League of Nations Ocala CSIO5*-LLN on Saturday evening, March 22, at World Equestrian Center Ocala (WEC) in Ocala, FL. A total of 10 teams competed in the opening round of the Longines League of Nations Ocala, with the[...]Read MoreThe post United States Emerges Victorious in $770,000 Longines League of Nations Ocala at World Equestrian Center Ocala appeared first on World Equestrian Center.

International equine charity World Horse Welfare is seeking an update in the law to protect all of Europes horses, donkeys and mules and not just those which are kept for farming.A review of the current legislation has been in the news recently following the publication of the European Commissions Vision for Agriculture and Food,an ambitious roadmap on the future of farming and food in Europe.While the roadmap is committed to updating the EUs animal welfare legislation, World Horse Welfare wants this to extend to all of Europes equids. The charity also wants the laws to be amended in line with the scientific evidence detailed in theGood Welfare for Equids White Paper which was delivered to the European Commission last October.Last week,Oliver Vrhelyi, the European Commissioner for Health and Animal Welfare, outlined his commitment to the End the Cage Age initiativeduring his address to the European Parliament Intergroup on the Welfare and Conservation of Animals. However, he didnt provide information on how animal welfare rules would be modernised at an EU level.We were encouraged both by the Commissioners commitment to update the rules on animal welfare in the EU and the inclusion of this commitment in the Vision for Agriculture and Food, saidJessica Stark, director of communications and public affairs at World Horse Welfare.Include sport, leisure and therapy horsesAlthough there is already animal welfare legislation in place it only encompasses horses, ponies, donkeys and mules kept for farming purposes and has never covered other equids, such as those for sport, leisure or therapy. Without changes to the legislation, millions of equids will remain unprotected.Moreover, the EUs animal welfare laws for agriculture have never considered the specific needs of equids which can be very different to those of livestock.TheGood Welfare for Equids White Paper, which was compiled by experts and published by Eurogroup for Animals with support from World Horse Welfare and other welfare organisations, includes the latest evidence and practical indicators on what good equine welfare looks like and the charity believes the document should inform the legislation.By basing any new welfare laws on evidence, including the widely accepted Five Domains model of animal welfare assessment, our aspiration is for the EU to move beyond basic standards of a life worth living to providing all of Europes horses, donkeys and mules with a good life, added Jessica.Calls for a digital ID and traceability systemThe charity also believes that introducing a robust digital equine identification and traceability scheme across Europe is necessary to protect equine welfare.The White Paper highlights the vital need for a consistent, robust, practical, and enforceable approach to identification and traceability for all equids across Europe if their welfare is to be protected, and laws enforced,said Jessica.This must enable full traceability of individual equids throughout their lifetime and ongoing surveillance of the European equid population.Defra ministerBaronessHayman of Ullocktold theNational Equine Forumin London earlier this month that while the government recognises the importance of equine identification and traceability, the pressure on public finances means the project has been paused.To view the White Paper, click here. Image World Horse Welfare.Related contentHow to tell if a horse is happyUK bans live export of horses for slaughterPetition set up with the aim of updating the Dangerous Dogs Act to better protect horsesPublic attitudes towards horse sport on the right track but there is still more to doLearn to read your horses body language with this expert adviceThe post Charity calls for law change to protect all of Europes equids appeared first on Your Horse.

Attribute Bates Elevation Saddle Pessoa Legend Saddle Design Focus Equitation and jumping with flat seat Show jumping with forward balance design Key Features Flat seat Adjustable Flexibloc system Ergonomic Stirrup Bar Weight: 6.7 kg/14.7 lb Forward balance design Interchangeable gullet system Suited for experienced jumpers Saddle Panels and Balance Flatter panels, neutral balance Forward position for dynamic style Adjustability Adjustable Flexibloc system Interchangeable gullets Price Range Starts around 1,399 Generally more budget-friendly Recommended For Versatile, equitation-focused riders Aggressive show jumpers Choosing Between Pessoa Legend and Bates Elevation Saddles: A Saddle Fitting Guide for EquestriansAs an equestrian, the saddle is perhaps one of the most important pieces of equipment you will choose. It impacts rider comfort, horse well-being, and your overall riding experience. Two popular saddles on the market are the Pessoa Legend and the Bates Elevation. Let's dig into these renowned saddles to help guide your decision based upon your unique riding style and preferences.Overview of Both Saddles Bates Elevation SaddleThe Bates Elevation saddle is designed for those who love equitation and jumping. Known for its flat seat and ergonomic design, this saddle provides excellent support and flexibility. It features an adjustable Flexibloc system, molded knee inserts, and quilted panel points, catering to both beginner and advanced riders who prioritize comfort and movement. Flat seat for optimal movement. Adjustable Flexibloc system for custom support. Ergonomic Stirrup Bar enhances rider comfort. Weight: Approximately 6.7 kg / 14.7 lb. Pessoa Legend SaddleThe Pessoa Legend saddle is tailored for show jumping enthusiasts. It features a forward balance design, positioning riders more forward in the seat. This saddle is perfect for those who thrive on an aggressive riding position. Forward balance design for advanced jumping positions. Interchangeable gullet system offers adjustability. Best suited for riders with experience in show jumping.Comparison Points for EquestriansRiding Style and DisciplineChoosing the right saddle depends heavily on your riding discipline. If you seek a saddle ideal for both equitation and those who prefer a flatter seat, the Bates Elevation fits the bill. Meanwhile, competitive show jumpers might find the Pessoa Legend more suited to their needs.Saddle Panels and BalanceThe Bates Elevation offers flatter panels and a neutral balance point, benefiting horses with a straighter back profile. In contrast, the Pessoa Legend shifts the rider forward, encouraging a dynamic riding style, perfect for aggressive show jumping.AdjustabilityBoth saddles come with unique adjustability features. The Bates Elevation includes an adjustable Flexibloc system, whereas the Pessoa Legend offers interchangeable gullets, providing adaptability to different horses.Price ConsiderationsPrice is always a factor when investing in a saddle. Typically, the Bates Elevation is on the pricier side, starting around 1,399. The Pessoa Legend may offer a more budget-friendly option while still maintaining quality.Choosing the Right Saddle for Your NeedsYour decision should revolve around your specific riding discipline. Are you focused on jumping or more general equitation? For jumping, the Pessoa Legend excels, whereas the Bates Elevation is perfect for those seeking a versatile option for various riding activities. Jodhpur, Boot, and Accessory CollectionRemember, selecting a saddle is just one component of your riding gear. Explore our Jodhpur Collection, Boot Collection, and other essential Everyday Supplements to enhance your horse riding experience.Other Riding EssentialsConsider adding quality riding gloves, socks, and fly protection to your collection. Plus, explore our selection of stable and turnout rugs for your horse's comfort. Finishing Touches: Treats and GiftsFinally, don't forget to reward your equine partner with treats or perhaps treat yourself with some horse-themed gifts! Celebrating the bond between you and your horse can enhance your riding experience even further.ConclusionIn summary, selecting between the Pessoa Legend and Bates Elevation saddles depends on your specific needs and preferences. Whether your focus is aggressive show jumping or general equitation, each saddle offers distinct advantages. Remember to pair your saddle choice with our extensive range of riding apparel and equestrian supplements to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable riding experience.