Topic Details Pelham Bit A combination of snaffle and curb bit, providing fine-tuned guidance and leverage control. Use in Disciplines Popular in show jumping, eventing, and fox hunting, but not allowed in dressage competitions. Advantages for Young Riders Offers increased control and versatility; helps develop communication skills with horses. Drawbacks for Young Riders Managing dual reins requires experience; improper use can affect balance and seat development. Considerations for Shows Focus on skill development; Pelham may complicate learning processes in low-level shows. Horse Welfare Emphasize snaffle rein; ensure proper fit to prevent discomfort. Starter Bits Recommend beginning with simpler bits like snaffle for foundational skill building. Education & Support Instruction on correct usage is vital to prevent leverage overuse; equestrian supplements may aid wellbeing. Conclusion Horse riding is an art and a sport, often requiring specific equipment and techniques to master. For young equestrians participating in low-level shows, the choice of bit can significantly impact performance and development. One bit that often sparks debate is the Pelham bit. But is it appropriate for young riders? In this comprehensive guide, we'll explore the advantages and potential drawbacks of using Pelham bits, especially in the context of low-level shows. We'll delve into what a Pelham bit is, its use across different riding disciplines, and its suitability for young riders.Understanding Pelham BitsWhat is a Pelham Bit?A Pelham bit is a type of horse bit that integrates the functions of both snaffle and curb bits into one. This combination allows riders to communicate with their equine partners effectively using two reins. The direct snaffle action allows for fine-tuned guidance, while the curb action provides additional leverage and control.Use of Pelham Bits in Different Riding DisciplinesPelham bits are often selected for show jumping, eventing, and fox hunting due to their ability to provide both precision and control. When navigating these challenging disciplines, riders benefit from the versatility offered by Pelham bits. However, they are not allowed in dressage competitions because leverage can counteract the refined connection desired between rider and horse.Suitability for Young RidersAdvantages for Young RidersPelham bits can be advantageous for young riders who need increased control during faster-paced disciplines. One of the primary benefits is their versatility, which allows young equestrians to better manage their horses. Additionally, using two reins effectively serves as an educational tool for developing communication skills with their horses.Potential Drawbacks for Young RidersThere are, however, potential drawbacks to using Pelham bits for young riders. Managing the dual reins requires experience, as improper use of leverage can hinder the development of seat and balanceessential components of effective communication with horses.Considerations for Low-Level ShowsThe Role of Learning EnvironmentLow-level shows provide a valuable learning platform for young riders to hone their skills. Here, the focus is on developing a balanced seat and effective aids, which are crucial for progressing to more complex riding levels. Introducing more complex equipment like the Pelham bit might sometimes complicate this development process.Horse Welfare and ComfortA critical consideration, regardless of the bit type used, is horse welfare. When using a Pelham bit, it's recommended to emphasize the snaffle rein to prevent over-reliance on the curb action, which can be harsh if not managed correctly. Regular checks on the horse's comfort can ensure proper fit and functionality of the bit.Additional Insights and Practical AdviceStart with Simpler BitsYoung riders are encouraged to begin their journey with simpler bits like the snaffle, which supports the development of fundamental riding skills. Once these skills are established, transitioning to more complex bits becomes more feasible.Education and SupportProper education and support play a crucial role in the development of young riders. Its essential that they receive adequate instruction on the correct usage of Pelham bits to avoid over-reliance on leverage. Equestrian supplements can also support the overall wellness of both riders and horses during this learning period.Prioritize Horse ComfortRegardless of the bit used, the horse's comfort must always be prioritized. This includes ensuring that the bit fits correctly and that any aids used do not cause discomfort or stress. Tools such as fly protection and well-fitted tack must be considered to create an optimal riding experience.ConclusionWhile Pelham bits can offer numerous advantages to young riders in certain contexts, their usage in low-level shows should be undertaken with careful consideration. Emphasizing proper riding techniques and ensuring the bit is used with a focus on snaffle rein communication can serve as a valuable educational tool. However, starting with simpler bits may be more beneficial for those still developing their core skills. For those ready to explore more with Pelham bits, the support of knowledgeable instructors and attention to the horse's welfare will make the journey both safe and rewarding. For additional resources and equestrian products, explore Jodhpurs, Boots, or Horse Treats and Gifts on the Just Horse Riders homepage.```html```

The following has been written by Kate Hore. RNutr(Animal), R.Anim.Technol (Cert). Head Nutritionist at NAFWith the clocks set firmly to British Summer Time us equestrians are thankful for the longer days and better weather. Whether youre looking forward to getting fit for the coming competition season, attending some clinics, or simply getting out and about to enjoy your horse, its an exciting, positive, time of year for horse owners.However, Spring is not always good news for every horse. This time of year can bring seasonal challenge to many, impacting equine welfare and threatening to be more whoa than go on your season. Before you both miss out on the fun times ahead, by using good management steps, and supporting your horses own natural responses with targeted nutrition, you can help them stay happy and healthy throughout spring, summer and on into autumn.Whenever your horses system is challenged the inevitable reaction will include an inflammatory response. The body uses that natural reaction as a form of defence, and also to speed up the systems own response to attack. Once it has done its job though, we need to ensure that reaction is cleansed from the system, so build up doesnt become a problem. For horses in light work and good health, a simple well balanced diet can meet that need. For those facing seasonal challenges, supplementary targeted nutrition can be an important part of supporting the bodys own anti-inflammatory pathways. Jump To:Why do we need to top up the diet?Which Metazone does my horse need?When does my horse need Five Star Metazone?What does Five Star Metazone provide to the feed bowl?Why do we need to top up the diet?Our modern agricultural grassland has very poor biodiversity, meaning your horses diet lacks the complex of antioxidants, fatty acids, phytochemicals (plant-based actives), vitamins and minerals that their natural diet would provide. Limited access or damaged pasture will also reduce the natural goodness from grazing at this time of year. In addition to feeding balanced vitamins and trace elements, at times of peak requirement it may be necessary to support with supplementary natural botanicals, such as found in NAF Metazone. Peak requirement includes:Training for the season Exercise itself increases oxidative damage within the system, particularly the muscles. Micro-damage of bone and joints is part of normal strength and fittening work, but care should be taken to ensure it doesnt tip over into excessive. Supporting your horses recovery with Metazone ensures they recover strong, and are fit and ready to step up to their next competition.Seasonal challenges Some horses and ponies can be sensitive to particular challenge at this time of year. Whether it is the rich grass growth, pollens, photosensitivity or insect menace, facing their seasonal triggers can really impact welfare. Good management is essential, and do discuss any health concerns with your vet, as your horse or ponys primary health giver.NAF Five Star Metazone works alongside veterinary guidance and a suitable management regime to nutritionally support your horses own anti-inflammatory response to seasonal challenges.Which Metazone does my horse need?Five Star Metazone is available in powder, liquid or syringe. The Metazone Powder is ideal for daily use, and includes digestive support from prebiotics, postbiotics and herbal gut health to optimise their digestion based immune response. Metazone Liquid is fast-acting, and ideal in situations where you may need a quick uptick in their defences, such as the ability to quickly increase to peak rate feeding in response to a high pollen forecast. Metazone Syringe provides the fast-acting nature of the liquid in an easy to feed instant syringe. Ideal for use at competition or when only a short course is required.When does my horse need Five Star Metazone?Facing seasonal challengesSoundness needs to be maintainedLong recovery periods after exerciseChange of characterPoor performanceWhat does Five Star Metazone provide to the feed bowl?Supports the bodys own anti-inflammatory responseSeasonal comfortPeak competition soundnessGut kind, works without compromising gut healthTarget training and efficient recovery Shop NAF Metazone At Redpost Equestrian, we stock NAFs varied range of supplements so you can be sure to provide the support your horse needs, all year round. Whether you are looking to ensure they get a full spectrum of daily vitamins, or want to ensure they recover quickly after intense performance, NAF have something for every horse.Discover NAFs range on our website, in our Totnes Store, and on our app. Explore the NAF Range The post NAF Metazone How Will It Support Your Horse? first appeared on Redpost Equestrian Blog.

The board of directors of Grayson-Jockey Club Research Foundation announced that it has authorized expenditure of $2,693,312 to fund 16 new projects and 10 continuing projects at 17 universities as well as two career development awards. The 2025 slate of research brings Graysons totals since 1940 to more than $44.4 million to underwrite more than 450 projects at 48 universities.Im very proud of Graysons commitment to furthering the research and development of projects that affect all horses, no matter their breed or discipline, said Jamie Haydon, president of Grayson. We are equally ecstatic that we could offer our two career development awards to this years recipients, continuing to cultivate a future for young researchers.Below is an alphabetical list by school of the new projects:Can Smartphone-Based Sensors Provide Reliable And Repeat able Lameness DataMelissa King,Colorado State UniversityThis project will test the reliability and repeatability of body-mounted and smartphone IMU sensors with machine learning and computational algorithms in lame and non-lame horses.Chimeric VP7-VP4 MVA-Vectored Equine Rotavirus VaccinesMariano Carossino,Louisiana State UniversityIn this study novel chimeric vaccinia-vectored vaccines against equine rotavirus A G3 and G14, the leading cause of foal diarrhea, will be designed and evaluated in mice (proof-of-concept) and mares.Ex Vivo DFTS Adhesion Model To Evaluate TherapiesLauren Schnabel,North Carolina State UniversityThis project will advance our understanding and treatment of adhesions that occur in the digital flexor tendon sheath of horses following injury and result in improved prognosis for performance.Effects Of SGLT2i On Triamcinolone-Induced Equine IDTeresa Burns,The Ohio State UniversityThis proposal will evaluate the degree to which joint injections with triamcinolone worsen insulin dysregulation in horses with ID and if use of canagliflozin at time of injection mitigates it.Finite Element Analysis Of SDFT MicrodamageSushmitha Durgam,The Ohio State UniversityThis proposal will study the multi-scale finite element models (FEM) that predict equine superficial digital flexor tendon (SDFT) mechanical behavior that are essential to delineate microdamage mechanisms preceding clinical injury.A Molecular Study On Hemorrhagic Anovulatory FolliclesEduardo Gastal,Southern Illinois University-CarbondaleThis study investigates gene and hormone levels in HAFs, the leading cause of ovulation failure in mares, using a novel technique (Follicle Wall Biopsy-Trinity) to collect multiple follicular samples.Improving a VapA mRNA Vaccine For R. Equi In FoalsNoah Cohen,Texas A&M UniversityThe aim of this study is to improve the design of a mRNA vaccine for foals to provide stronger, longer immunity against Rhodococcus equi, a leading cause of disease and death in foals worldwide.Organoid Model For Equine Placentitis ResearchPouya Dini,University of California-DavisThis projects aim is to develop an in vitro model of equine placentitis to advance the study of this condition, ultimately improving diagnostics, treatments, and pregnancy outcomes.Genetics Of Cervical Spine Malformations In The HorseCarrie Finno,University of California-DavisThis study will identify genetic causes for abnormal formation of the cervical spine in horses.Pharmacokinetics And Efficacy Of Pregabalin In HorsesHeather Knych,University of California-DavisThe study seeks to investigate the behavior of an analgesic agent approved for use in humans for the treatment of persistent pain, as a first step in assessing the utility of this drug for pain control in horses.Characterization Of Antibodies Against Equine IL-31Rosanna Marsela,University of FloridaThis proposal aims to develop a new treatment for equine insect bite hypersensitivity (IBH) by targeting a key itch mediator, providing an alternative to steroids.Characterization Of Laminitis Using PETDianne McFarlane,University of FloridaThis study will validate the use of PET scans for identifying disease pathology and progression in insulin associated laminitis in horses.Effects Of Inflammatory Cytokines On MSC HomingJohn Peroni,University of GeorgiaThis study will investigate how mesenchymal stem cells traffic to injuries after delivery to the bloodstream to inform the best time to deliver cells relative to initial injury in future animal models.Racehorse Stride Changes And Workload During TrainingPeta Hitchens,University of MelbourneBy determining whether the workload and changes in stride characteristics associated with injury during racing are also present during training, this project may identify injuries prior to race day.Synthetic Proteoglycan Replacement For OsteoarthritisKyla Ortved,University of PennsylvaniaThis proposal seeks to establish a new class of injectable, cartilage-penetrating compounds made from synthetic polyelectrolytes that replace proteoglycans that are critically lost in osteoarthritis.Wearable Biometric Sensor DevelopmentAmerican Association of Equine PractitionersProvide funding for the epidemiological work associated with the data gathered through the field testing of the selected biomechanical sensors.Career Development AwardsThe Storm Cat Career Development Award,inaugurated in 2006, grants $20,000 to an individual considering a career in equine research. This year, Graysonawarded Dr. Erica Secor, Cornell University.Dr. Secor is a class of 2013 graduate from Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine and is attending Cornell as a Ph.D. student. Dr. Secor is an equine surgeon whose knowledge is growing readily under the supervision of Dr. Heidi Reesink, a former Storm Cat Award winner.The proposed study, defining the immune cell populations present in naturally occurring equine Osteoarthritis and the response to intra-articular therapeutics, expands on the limited knowledge regarding immune cell populations within equine joints with osteoarthritis.The Elaine and Bertram Klein Career Development Awardwas first awarded in 2015 and grants $20,000 to a prospective equine researcher. This years recipient is Dr. Shannon Connard, North Carolina State University.After Dr. Connard received her Doctor of Veterinary Medicine in 2017 from the University of Georgia, she went on to pursue an internship at Louisiana State University followed by a large animal internship and residency at the University of Pennsylvanias School of Veterinary Medicine. Through this, Dr. Connard achieved board certification with the American College of Veterinary Surgeons in 2023. She is a postdoctoral fellow / Ph.D. candidate in the Comparative Medicine and Translational Research Training Program at North Carolina State University. Dr. Connards current research is dedicated to the advancement of regenerative therapies for equine musculoskeletal injuries.Dr. Connards project, harnessing stem cells licensing to enhance tendon healing, aims to further the understanding of intralesional mesenchymal stem cell (MSC) therapy in treating equine tendon injuries, under the supervision of Dr. Lauren Schnabel.Details on the new projects are available at the following link here.Grayson-Jockey Club Research Foundation is traditionally the nations leading source of private funding for equine medical research that benefits all breeds of horses. Since 1940, Grayson has provided nearly $44.4 million to underwrite more than 450 projects at 48 universities. Additional information about the foundation is available atgrayson-jockeyclub.org. Edited Press ReleaseThe post Grayson-Jockey Club Research Foundation Approves Funding for 2025 appeared first on Horse Illustrated Magazine.

Using antibiotics to assist reproductive efficiency in horses with no health and well-being issues poses a challenge to equine practitioners. | iStockMats Troedsson, DVM, PhD, DACT, DECAR, from the University of Kentuckys Maxwell H. Gluck Equine Research Center, addressed antimicrobial resistance (AMR) from a reproduction standpoint during a presentation at the 2024 American Association of Equine Practitioners Convention, held Dec. 7-11 in Orlando, Florida.In theriogenology, veterinarians use antibiotics not only to treat infections but also to improve reproductive efficiency in the absence of illness. They often administer antibiotics in postbreeding intrauterine infusions, following natural mating, during embryo transfer, and in semen extenders for artificial insemination without evidence of infection.Breeding-induced or physiologic endometritis is predominately triggered by the presence of sperm, not bacteria, in the uterus. The purpose of this inflammatory reaction is to eliminate excess sperm and any contaminating bacteria and inflammatory products to allow a hospitable environment for the embryo.Recent data show, however, that almost 30% of mares clear the uterus of inflammation within six hours of breeding/insemination/embryo transfer, and approximately 85% of broodmares are resistant to persistent endometritis.This emphasizes how effective the uterine defense mechanism is, said Troedsson.For mares that cant clear the inflammation, we need to ask why.We have previously shown that these mares have impaired myometrial contractility in response to inflammation due to accumulation of nitric oxide in the uterus as well as an imbalance between pro- and anti-inflammatory cytokines in response to breeding. Predisposing factors can also include poor perineal conformation, relayed Troedsson.When a mare fails to clear bacteria from the uterus, antibiotics are indicated and should be selected based on culture and sensitivity results. Treatment should continue for three to five days and can be combined with uterine lavage if fluid is present. Note that mares diagnosed with bacterial endometritis will not be bred in the same cycle, so there is time to wait for the laboratory results to guide treatment.In the case of treatment failures, consider the presence of resistant or dormant bacteria located in the deeper layers of the endometrium or endometrial glands or the presence of biofilm.bActivate is a sterile growth medium that activates dormant Streptococcus zooepidemicus after being instilled in the uterus, said Troedsson. The uterus can be cultured the day after activation and the mare treated if the culture is positive. If the culture is negative, the uterus is clear. This also works for other bacteria.In the case of persistent infectious endometritis that doesnt respond to treatment, biofilms that evade both the immune system and antibiotics could be to blame.Bacteria on the surface of the biofilm are exposed to sufficient concentrations of antibiotics, but reduced diffusion through the biofilm matrix leads to decreased concentration of antimicrobials within the biofilm community, Troedsson explained. This provides an excellent opportunity for bacteria to develop AMR. Further, genetic alterations associated with AMR are easily transmitted between bacteria in the biofilm, contributing to AMR.To treat these infections, vets must first diagnose or suspect a biofilm, then break it down. Biofilms are very difficult to diagnose in the field, Troedsson said. One potential way of diagnosing biofilms is to identify proteins or lipids specific to biofilms. If those molecules can be consistently recovered from mares with biofilms, an in vivo assay can be developed.While infectious endometritis requires antibiotic therapy, Troedsson recommends treating breeding-induced endometritis with ecbolics, lavage, and possibly immune modulators, such as bacterial cell wall fractions (Settle), platelet-rich plasma, dexamethasone, or lactoferrin.Antibiotics are not the first choice, Troedsson stressed. We know it is semen not bacteria causing the inflammation and subsequent uterine fluid.Troedsson concluded by stating that while antimicrobials are valuable in equine reproduction for proven infections, using antibiotics to assist reproductive efficiency in horses with no health and well-being issues poses a challenge to equine practitioners.We need alternatives to antibiotics, and decisions should be made based on scientific data rather than traditions and habits, such as routinely using antibiotics to flush mares 24 hours post-mating, he concluded.

On April 2, a Quarter Horse gelding in Polk County, Florida, tested positive for strangles after developing clinical signs on March 27. The gelding is under official quarantine, and one additional horse is exposed.This is Floridas 12thconfirmed case of strangles in 2025.EDCC Health Watch is an Equine Network marketing program that utilizes information from the Equine Disease Communication Center (EDCC) to create and disseminate verified equine disease reports. TheEDCCis an independent nonprofit organization that is supported by industry donations in order to provide open access to infectious disease information.About StranglesStranglesin horses is an infection caused byStreptococcus equisubspeciesequiand spread through direct contact with other equids or contaminated surfaces. Horses that arent showing clinical signs can harbor and spread the bacteria, and recovered horses remain contagious for at least six weeks, with the potential to cause outbreaks long-term.Infected horses can exhibit a variety of clinical signs:FeverSwollen and/or abscessed lymph nodesNasal dischargeCoughing or wheezingMuscle swellingDifficulty swallowingVeterinarians diagnose horses using polymerase chain reaction (PCR) testing with either a nasal swab, wash, or an abscess sample, and they treat most cases based on clinical signs, implementing antibiotics for severe cases. Overuse of antibiotics can prevent an infected horse from developing immunity. Most horses make a full recovery in three to four weeks.A vaccine is available but not always effective. Biosecurity measures of quarantining new horses at a facility and maintaining high standards of hygiene and disinfecting surfaces can helplower the risk of outbreakorcontain one when it occurs.

Wheat bran has also fallen out of favor because of its high phosphorus level. | Photo: iStockQ: Ive always enjoyed giving my horse a warm bran mash in cold weather, but this doesnt seem to be something people do much anymore. Is there still a place for wheat bran in my feed room?A: Growing up I routinely fed a warm bran mash to my horse in the winter, especially on days when he worked hard. However its far more unusual now in part because weve realized that it might not be as beneficial as we once believed.In my 1983 8th Edition of the British Horse Society and The Pony Club Manual of Horsemanship it states that a bran mash is a very useful warm food after hard exercise and hunting. It goes on to say that after adding boiling water to the bran, you should add a generous amount of salt along with some oats, and then feed once cool. It finishes by saying bran mash has a laxative value, and it has everything to recommend it when fed once a week to horses in work and to invalid horses. It is also a convenient way to administer medicines such as worming compounds.So how did a feed and feeding practice that were once so popular fall out of favor? To better understand that you need to understand your horses digestive tract, as well as the composition of the feed.About Diet Changes and Digestive Tract UpsetMost of us are well aware that changes to a horses diet should be made gradually over several days. The reason for this is that the digestive enzymes, the amount secreted as well as the bacteria in the horses hind gut, are somewhat specific to the diet being fed. Therefore, if you change the makeup of the diet the enzymes and digestive bacteria must adapt, and this takes time. In the meantime if too much new feed is fed the horse might not be able to fully digest it and can lead to digestive disturbance (e.g., diarrhea, gas, and colic, etc.).As previously mentioned, horse people used to routinely feed bran mashes once a week, largely for their believed laxative effect. Since becoming more educated in equine nutrition, its fascinated me thatwhile we take great care not to suddenly change a horses diet when starting most new feedsthis logic goes out the window when it comes to a bran mash. Essentially, when you feed a bran mash once a week youre breaking all the guidelines you typically follow in keeping your horses diet consistent. The laxative effect might be because the feed change is causing digestive distress! This is probably not the best method of ensuring your horses digestive contents stay on the move.Wheat Brans Nutritional ImbalanceWheat bran has also fallen out of favor because of its high phosphorus level. In fact wheat bran has an inverted calcium to phosphorus ratio, meaning that it contains more phosphorus than calcium. This is actually common in traditional grains such as wheat, oats, and barley. However, wheat bran is particularly high with a phosphorus content of about 1% and calcium at only 0.15%.Researchers realized feeding diets with a lot of wheat bran increased the risk of developing secondary hyperparathyroidism, a condition that results from a calcium imbalance potentially caused by horses consuming a diet too high in phosphorus. Big head or bran disease was far more common when horse owners and managers fed traditional grains and wheat bran more commonly than we do today. In reality this condition is unlikely to result from feeding a bran mash once a week. Its far more likely if bran or traditional grains are fed daily in a poorly balanced ration. Traditionally any number of unfortified grains could have caused a similar issue, but because, proportionally, brans add much more phosphorus per pound than the grains, they are often considered a larger problem. With the concern over big head and potential links to bran, much less wheat bran is now fed and most rice brans are fortified with additional calcium carbonate to neutralize the problem.So, Whats Right About Bran?Going back to the quote from my Manual of Horsemanship, if a bran mash has everything to recommend it, whats it doing right, given the two already discussed areas of concern? First, the manual hints that bran mashes are generally welcomed by even the most picky eater. Often, after very long and heavy work such as fox hunting, horses might have a reduced appetite and the goal is to get the horse eating and the digestive tract moving. Some sick horses that have gone off feed can be tempted to eat with a bran mash. Therefore, a bran mash can be a very useful tool when faced with a horse that has gone off feed and will not eat anything else.Second, adding salt to a bran mash is a great practice, especially when fed after work that might have incurred heavy sweat losses.Alternative Warm Mashes for Your HorseSo, when you want to give a bran mash is there something else that might be more beneficial? Is there a better way?If you already give your horse supplemental feed, whether it is pellets or a textured feed, add hot water to make a warm mash just as you would with wheat bran. This way you are creating the mash but using familiar feeds that are less likely to irritate the gastrointestinal tract.If you only feed forage, purchase some hay pellets that are like the forage you feed and use them to make a mash.Next add some salt, or if you already give salt every day and your horse has been sweating heavily, add an electrolyte. If you need to entice a picky eater or a horse that has gone off feed, try adding carrot or apple peelings. If you have your heart set on a weekly bran mash, then I suggest adding a small amount of bran to your horses every day feed so that the mash is not a novel feed to your horse digestive tract. But be careful to keep the amount of bran small and consider discussing with an equine nutritionist how to add bran to your ration while maintaining a balanced mineral profile.

These 10 principles can help guide human interactions with horses. | Erica Larson/The HorseOver the past few decades researchers have shed important light on how horses learn and feel. Recently, equitation scientists adapted this knowledge to create a peer-reviewed list of 10 First Principles of Horse Training, adopted by the International Society for Equitation Science (ISES).Properly applied, the principles offer a healthy future for horse sports grounded in scientific evidence for good horse welfare, said Andrew McLean, PhD, BSc, Dipl. Ed., founder of the Australian Equine Behaviour Centre, in Victoria, during his presentation at the 2025 Horse XP Experience for Wellness Conference, held March 15-16 in San Marcello Piteglio, Italy.The 10 principles give us a good overview about what weve learned scientifically about the horse, and how to apply that to interact with the horse in the best wayfor everyone.1. Regard for Human and Horse SafetyBecause horses are large,powerful prey animals with a strong flight instinct, they can pose risks to humans, McLean said. Thus, humans need proper guidance on how to reduce those risks by better understanding how horses think.He added that humans, too, can be dangerous to horses. For example, inappropriate training techniques or misuse of equipment can cause confusion, pain, and even alter a horses breathing.We need to teach people how to train lightness and to recognize the importance of a safe environmentfor horses as well as humans, McLean said. 2. Regard for the Nature of HorsesWe should respect horses need for fiber-based diets, which involve lots of chewing time, as well as their need to interact with other horses and move around a lot, said McLean. This isnt just something the horse wants, he explained. Its something the horse has wiring in the brain to actually need.In addition, horses should have agencythe opportunity to make choices. That includes choosing to roll in a dirt patch at pasture, or find his own path during a hack in the forest.People should also improve their communication skills with horses and understand their appreciation for smooth body movements and unthreatening body postures, McLean said. Horses should be free of unnecessary practices that deprive them of their naturesuch as trimming off whiskers, which have a sensory purpose.3. Regard for Horses Mental and Sensory AbilitiesUnderstanding your horses cognitive abilities can help you ensure you never expect too much from him or blame him, McLean said.We should also avoid applying mental state narratives to horses, like saying theyre confident, or a chicken, because it can lead us to treat them like that instead of turning the mirror onto ourselves to see what weve done wrong, he said.Its also important to recognize how their vision, hearing, and smell differ from ours, McLean added. 4. Regard for Horses Current Emotional StatesHorses moods can change depending on how theyre trained and managed, said McLean.Consistent training with clear cues can prevent confusion, he added. Using body posture that supports those cues (more on this in a moment) ensures our signals are clear and dont conflict with each other.Our own attitudes can affect horses moods as well, so we should downregulate ourselves so were not stressed when working with horses. 5. Correct Use of Habituation/Desensitization/Calming Methods With HorsesMcLean added that ethical training methods can help prevent flight responses by reducing fear of typicallyscary things, such as umbrellas or needle pricks. Scientifically proven methods that take horses cognition and sensitivity into consideration include techniques such as systematic desensitization, overshadowing, and counter-conditioning.In contrast, people shouldnt force horses to endure scary things/situations by blocking them from movinga method known as flooding. The technique is not only bad for welfare but also can lead to dangerous short- or long-term consequences.6. Correct Use of Operant Conditioning in HorsesScientists use the term operant conditioning to refer to that based on cues and rewardsfor example, applying leg pressure and then immediately removing it as soon as the horse moves forward, McLean explained.They base reinforcements on either adding somethinggiving a food treat or wither scratchor removing somethingreleasing pressure. While both kinds of reinforcements can be effective, timing is critical for their success, he said. And in general, combining the two can work very well for ethical and efficient training.People should avoid punishing horsessuch as hitting them in response to unwanted behavior or depriving them of food or freedom.The main reason we want to punish horses is because of mistakes we ourselves make, he said. That negatively affects the way he sees you.7. Correct Use of Classical Conditioning in HorsesClassical conditioning relies on the movements, images, and soundssuch as gathering up the reins or clicking with the tonguethat precede a pressure cue. Horses pick up on these stimuli and respond to them in anticipation of pressure, meaning they eventually respond to rein-gathering or tongue-clicks alone.Classical conditioning creates lightness and good communication between horse and rider, said McLean.We need to have consistent riding posture so that our rein and leg aids are consistently paired with subtle alterations in body posture, he said. This coupling of leg/rein aids with body posture is known as compound conditioning. We know from the studies that one without the other is ineffective, and that is why good riding lessons from skilled coaches are essential.8. Correct Use of Shaping in HorsesShaping involves breaking down training into microgoals by asking for and rewarding progress little by little. Our goal is to understand the smallest steps to get to our larger training goals, McLean said. Weve got to make training as easy and obvious as it can be for the horse.Shaping also involves recognizing context. Horses are very clever and very good at contextual learning, he said. So if I train a horse to do something, that doesnt mean hell do it somewhere else. And it doesnt mean hell do it for you. And if I trained him on a sunny day, it doesnt mean hell do it in the rain. We should only train one context at a time until the response is consolidated and then move to another context, one at a time.9. Correct Use of Signals/Cues When Working With HorsesIn my experience, even high-level horse trainers commonly assume they are using signals and cues correctlybut this is rarely so, said McLean. There is still a lot to be learned in this regard because there are certain strict principles surrounding the use and applications of aids. Specifically, each aid should have a single meaning. For example, rein tension in a specific direction plus an associated posture should mean slowing the tempo.A slightly stronger version should mean a downward transition to the next gaitand nothing else. Closing leg pressure should mean moving forward or an upward transitionand nothing else.Likewise, people should not use conflicting cuessuch as rein tension (slow down) at the same time as double leg pressure (go forward). In a well-trained horse, the aids can come very close together, but they must be applied in the distinct footfalls that occur within each of the gaits, he said. Horses can also recognize pressure cues in slightly different areas of the body, allowing for more options for clearer aids. This is why we use our leg in a different position for yielding the hindquarters, or canter, or highly collected movements such as piaffe, said McLean.Always ask yourself, Can the horse discriminate all these things I ask him to do? he added. 10. Regard for Horses Self-CarriageSelf-carriage refers to training horses to continue with the requested gait, tempo, stride-length, posture, and direction until further notice. Thats a stark contrast to constraining horses to hold those movementswhich compromises health and welfare.Take your legs away, said McLean. Take the reins away. Take one rein or one leg away. If he quickens, raises his head or falls out, he was held, not trained.He said he believes, proper self-carriage is the critical way forward in horse sportsit eliminates the riders perceived need to force the horse into a position or nag him with the reins or spurs. Take-Home MessageMcLean said these 10 principles help people use training and management practices that support the well-being of both horses and humans. What I love about equitation scienceincluding these 10 principlesis that its a very fair and sensible way of looking at horse training, he added. These principles hold the key for the best performances we will ever see that are good for horse welfare, good for the riders soul, and pleasant optics for the public. The future is coming. We just need to be brave enough to look for it.

A new online platform for purchasing horses, which includes using a local assessor to visit the horse in person, has been unveiled.Try A Horse is designed to simplify and professionalise the horse purchasing process in the UK by connecting potential purchasers to local assessors who can undertake a provisional assessment of a horse or pony, prior to the purchasers driving a significant distance.The new platform has been designed to streamline equine sales and purchasing and is based on a three-stage process find it, try it, buy it.The find it stage allows horse purchasers the opportunity to store the details of any horse or pony of interest in a bespoke wish list located in a private area on the Try A Horse website. Users can rank equines in order of interest as well as adding notes.Enlist professional guidanceThe next stage is to find a rider for the try it stage. For a small fee, users will be able to access a list of assessors who are local to the horse of interest. Purchasers can then select an assessor with relevant experience for their requirements before sending them video footage of their riding ability.Tiny Clapham, Lizzie Murray, Paul Gaff, Seb Hughes and Emma Forsyth are among those who have joined the network of assessors.Assessors work on a freelance basis and consequently set their own hourly rates. Purchasers are expected to pay for two hours of their time plus mileage. The money is held by PayPal until the assessment is complete.The local assessor will then visit the horse of interest and provide feedback via a comprehensive assessment form. As well as evaluating the horses ridden work and giving an understanding of their suitability for the required use, the assessor will also provide information on how the horse is to handle on the ground, their fitness levels, and how easy they are to load. The form also includes a passport check, details what tack they are ridden in and supplies information about the horses routine.As a former professional rider and now a mum of keen girls, Im always trying to find the safest and most competitive ponies, with a busy life its challenging to travel the length and breadth of the country to source them, said racing broadcaster Alice Fox-Pitt.Its a really exciting concept that Try a Horse will now narrow my list, saving us time looking for the most fun ponies for my kids.Rate my riderOnce a visit has taken place, the potential purchaser can critique and provide feedback on the local assessor to help other users.If the pre-assessment with a local assessor is successful, Try A Horse advises purchasers visit the horse in person and if they wish to buy it they should undertake a pre-purchase veterinary examination with a qualified vet. Information regarding local equine veterinary practices can be found on the Try A Horse website.Try a Horse has identified one of the many difficulties that people face when searching for their next equine partner, said Nick Gauntlett, British Horse Society Fellow, British Eventing master coach and international event rider.This website could save hours of peoples time, not to mention saving the sellers and their horses being put through many fruitless trials by people unaccustomed to assessing horses.For more information and to visit the Try A Horse website, click here. Main image Shutterstock.Related contentEssential horse worming schedule from a vetTimes have changed: Hopes that new educational programme will help to improve equine welfareHow to tell if a horse is happyCommon horse skin conditions in picturesThe post New online platform designed to transform the equestrian sales process launches appeared first on Your Horse.