There’s just two weeks to go until Membership & General Admission tickets for the 2025 Defender Burghley Horse Trials (4-7 September) go on sale.  2025 BOX OFFICE OPENING DATESThe Box Office opens straight after Easter Weekend.This is a reminder to add these on-sale dates to your diary now! Membership or Caravan & Horsebox MembershipTuesday 22 April at 9amGeneral...

Sustainable grass hay production usually involves growing a variety of plant species in the same field. | Getty ImagesQ: I am considering producing hay for at least my own horses within the next few years. Ive heard of sustainable hay production, but I dont know much about it. What is it, and what do I need to get started?A: Sustainable hay production refers to practices that protect the environment while producing a high-quality hay crop, says Sandy Young, owner of Treasure Valley Hay, in Nampa, Idaho. Young has been a hay broker since 2008, focusing primarily on providing high-quality hay for horse owners in Southwestern Idaho, but she has customers in all Western states.Growers want to produce a high-quality product and feed the world as well as (understand) what they need to produce it, says Young. When she evaluates a potential hay grower before agreeing to broker their hay, she looks for good quality, good color, and fresh smell without mold or foreign objects.She also considers the growers farming practices. Is their hay produced as organically as possible, without chemicals? she says. If a grower is spraying, what are they using?Sustainable grass hay production usually involves growing a variety of plant species in the same field. It often includes rotating crops, such as with teff hay, which will help maintain soil health, says Young. Using integrated pest management strategies (a science-based approach combining different pet control tools) will help reduce chemical use.Promoting biodiversity and long-term soil health are all part of regenerative agriculture, the new buzzword these days, Young adds. This means the grower employs techniques such as planting cover crops, reducing or eliminating tillage (plowing), which disrupts the soils ecosystem, and avoiding bare, exposed soil thats prone to erosion from wind or rain. It also involves using organic fertilizers and trace minerals, andreducing or eliminating chemical inputs to support soil microbes and improve soil structure and fertility, she adds. These practices help the soil retain moisture, which reduces polluted runoff and dust storms.Healthy, living soils help plants grow longer, stronger root systems, which in turn allow plants to better utilize minerals and nutrients in the soil, says Young. Its becoming so obvious that soils are deficient from decades of modern farming practices that have depleted our soils of microbes and nutrients.Healthy soils are a balance of organic matter,trace minerals,soil life, and the plants grown.Take-Home MessageSustainable hay production involves protecting the environment while producing a high-quality hay crop. This can include producing forage as organically as possible, with minimal chemicals and a focus on the long-term health of balanced soils. Sourcing sustainably grown hay is protecting the environment, says Young.

Veterinarians can examine sperm motility to understand its quality. | Stephanie L. Church/The HorsePreserving sperm quality during transport is paramount to equine breeding success. This principle applies whether using a fresh, cooled, or frozen sample. At the 2025 Cavalcade Education Equine Reproduction Seminar, held in Red Hook, New York, Jan. 8, Alana King, DVM, Dipl. ACT, of Millbrook Equine Veterinary Clinic, in New York, shared the latest guidelines for the successful collection and transport of fresh, cooled semen.Semen Collection Process in HorsesObtaining semen for artificial insemination (AI) involves the stallion mounting a phantom mare or dummy, with the penis diverted into an artificial vagina (AV) to collect the semen. The AV setup is one of the most critical factors in successful semen collection. King highlighted the importance of adjusting the devices internal temperature, pressure, and lubrication to each stallions preference. She recommended carefully recording the AV setup for each stallion to replicate it consistently.Wash the stallions penis and sanitize equipment thoroughly to remove dirt and debris that could introduce bacteria and negatively impact semen quality. Along with a reliable teaser mare, King stressed the importance of having an experienced stallion handler present to ensure everyones safety.Evaluating Equine Semen for FertilityAfter collecting the semen sample, veterinarians evaluate it both grossly and under a microscope for qualitywhich translates to fertilityand pair it with an extender. King described the steps to measure volume, concentration, and total sperm count, noting these parameters can vary widely between stallions, but the total sperm count is the most important factor in determining fertility. This number is generally 8 (billion) to 10 billion sperm per ejaculate, 1 (billion) to 2 billion of which is shipped to each mare, she said.Beyond sperm count, King also described the role of motility in assessing semen quality. Progressive motility (sperm swimming in mostly straight lines or large circles) is a better predictor of fertility than total motility, because the latter counts sperm that move erratically without the ability to travel to and fertilize an egg.Role of Extenders in Horse Semen TransportSemen extenders are specifically formulated preservative solutions that allow cooled sperm to survive transport and remain viable long enough for the mare to be artificially inseminated on arrival. King recommended conducting extender trials to determine the best option for each stallion because individuals semen can react differently to the antibiotics often contained in these extenders.Maximizing Horse Semen QualityTo maximize semen fertility potential, King recommended:Before collecting semen for insemination, conduct clean-out ejaculations to avoid sperm degradation that can occur when semen is held in the epididymis for too long.Ensure proper lighting in the stallions stall to support optimal sperm production. Horses are long-day breeders (animals with reproductive cycles stimulated by an increase in daylight length).Consider supplements such as the antioxidant alpha ()-lipoic acid and omega-3 fatty acids to improve sperm quality and motility.Centrifuge samples to remove seminal fluid that can be detrimental to stored semen.Take-Home MessageWith AI in horses, every extra step and hour lapsed between ejaculation and insemination has the potential to degrade semen quality. With the proper knowledge, equipment, and attention to detail, breeders can work alongside their veterinarians to consistently produce high-quality semen samples that maximize the chances of a successful conception, said King.

A woman from Doncaster and a man from Darlington have both been banned from keeping equines for a decade after they were found guilty of severely neglecting nine horses.Ann Duckitt of Kirkhouse Green, Doncaster and John Watson of Linton Gardens, Darlington both appeared in court charged with multiple offences under the Animal Welfare Act 2006.In May and June 2023, RSPCA officers, a World Horse Welfare expert and a vet visited Duckitts home and some locations nearby. Nine horses were found to be exhibiting major health problems and were being kept in unsuitable, unsanitary conditions contrary to the Animal Welfare Act so they were removed into the care of the two charities.Two of the horses had to be euthanised and three were taken into World Horse Welfares Penny Farm Rescue and Rehoming Centre in Blackpool and have since been rehomed.Credit: World Horse WelfareThese poor horses were badly neglected with severely overgrown hooves and unsanitary living conditions, said Lynsey Harris, chief inspector for the RSPCAs South Yorkshire inspectorate group.The equine vet who examined them reported that all nine had overgrown hooves, some so severe that hooves were curling under or over the foot, making them lame. In her opinion, most had never in their lives been seen by a farrier.They were living in terrible, cramped and unsanitary conditions on bedding that in some cases was a 2 foot (60 cm) high pile of faeces and old straw. This had resulted in severe thrush, infections and maggots in the feet of some of the horses.A suspected lack of dental care had led to some of the animals having severely sharp teeth and ulcerated mouths, and infestations of mites were making them itch.It is the horses owners legal responsibility to properly look after any animal in their care. Sadly,many of these horses suffered because of their owners.I implore owners to be realistic about the care they can provide, both physically and financially for any animal in their care. If they are unable to meet their needs, they need to take action, rather than leave them to suffer.Duckitt and Watson disputed or were unclear about who owned each of the horses.We had been visiting the location for several years, advising and educating the owners in the hope that the situation would improve, said Sarah Tucker, World Horse Welfare field officer.Most owners are usually happy and willing to work with us, actioning our recommendations to improve the lives of their ponies, but on this occasion the advice had gone unheeded to the point some of the ponies were actually suffering. Unfortunately, the only outcome to this case was to assist in removing the ponies alongside the police and RSPCA.Duckitt wasalso sentenced to 12 weeks imprisonment, suspended for 12 months, as well as 80 hours unpaid work and told to pay costs of 400 and a victim surcharge of 154.Watsonreceived a15 weeks imprisonmentsentence, suspended for 12 months, as well as 40 hours unpaid work andorderedto pay costs of 750 and avictimsurcharge of 154.Images World Horse Welfare.Related contentSafe haven for abused and neglected donkeys under threatHow to take care of a horseHow to tell if a horse is happyVet explains how to keep a horses joints healthyThe post Ten-year ban for pair who neglected horses so badly they had curling hooves and maggots in their feet appeared first on Your Horse.

Athlete Selection Policy for the FEI Para Dressage European Championships 2025

Horse Sport Ireland would like to issue an update in relation to the National Stallion Showcase, scheduled for April 12th in Emerald Equestrian Centre. The National Stallion Showcase is funded under National Breeding Services, by the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine. Due to several late withdrawals, and having assessed the level of remaining entries, HSI feel that the numbers are not viable to host the 2025 National Stallion Showcase. HSI want to ensure all events are worthwhile for both the breeders, spectators, and suppliers. Therefore, we have taken the difficult decision to cancel the Stallion Showcase and reassess for an event in 2026. HSI would like to acknowledge all breeders, Stallion owners and Trade suppliers for their interest and effort in entering the showcase. HSI wish you the very best for the 2025 breeding season.

Mother, grandmother, and winning 5* eventing riderthese three titles dont typically go together. However, Tamie Smith, 49, is all of the above. Based in Temecula, Calif., out of her Next Level Eventing barn, Tamie became the first American rider in 15 years to win the Kentucky Three-Day Event CCI 5*whenshe claimed victory aboard Mai Baum. Held the last weekend in April every year, the Kentucky 5* represents the highest level of eventing, with only seven 5* competitions held per year in the entire world.She accomplished this feat aboard her long-time partner, a then-18-year-old German Sport Horse gelding named Mai Baum, owned by Ellen Ahearn, Eric Markell, and their daughter, Alex Ahearn. Tamie was also the first woman since 2011 to win this internationally prestigious event.Tamie Smith and Mai Baum make easy work of the log drop into the Head of the Lake on their way to winning the 2023 Kentucky Three-Day Event CCI 5*. Photo by Sarah Miller/MacMillan PhotographyThe eventing world has had a keen eye on Tamie and Mai Baum for years as their eye-popping dressage scores and top finishes at major events gained notice. The pair won eventing team gold at the 2019 PanAm games in Lima, Peru, team silver at the 2022 FEI World Championships, and they were selected as reserves for the 2020 Tokyo Olympic Games (held in 2021).We sat down with Tamie to learn more about what keeps her motivated, the perks of being a mother in the horse world, and the horse that made the big win possible.Tamie and Mai Baum display a stellar talent in the dressage ring, and often come out of the first phase of competition at the top of the leaderboard. Photo by Allen MacMillan/MacMillan PhotographyOn Mai BaumMai Baum, or Lexus as hes known around the barn, started off as Alex Ahearns ride when she took a post as one of Tamies working students. Alex had imported Lexus from Munich, Germany.Im not certain if everybody thought that he would be what he is today, says Tamie.Alex Ahearn and Mai Baum after Tamies big win at Kentucky. Alex was Tamies working student before giving her the ride on Lexus. Photo by Shannon BrinkmanAlex competed Lexus through his first Intermediate (39) before coming to ride with Tamie.Shed had trouble at Lexuss first Intermediate, and we worked her through that, says Tamie. We got her competing well at [that] level. She was winning.After competing Lexus at the 3* event at Fair Hill in Maryland and making the U25 list (a selective list of upcoming young American riders aged 25 and under), Alex decided she wanted to pursue further academic education instead of continuing her riding career.After a training session that winter, I remember her coming to me and saying, I want to meet you for dinner and talk, Tamie recalls. She said, I want you to take the ride on Lexus. I remember being a little surprised. I said, No, you dont. You dont know what youre saying. You have to do this.Despite Tamie trying to talk Alex out of it, she insisted that Tamie was the right rider for Lexus.I remember her saying, America needs a good horse. And you need a good horse, Tamie says. And it was quite emotional, because I knew what she was saying.For a while, Tamie thought that Alex might decide to take Lexus back and start riding him again herself.I thought I would start riding him, and a few months later she would say, Im just kidding, I want to ride him, Tamie remembers. But here we are eight years later, and its been so incredible to see her vision and what she wanted for me and Lexus actually come to fruition.At 20, Lexus is still going strong. Tamie isnt sure if or when he will be ready to slow down, but thinks he will tell her when that time comes. I am really careful every time I get on, she says. I feel like I have a good gut instinct and know my horses. Its a possibility that he could just drop down a level. He absolutely loves the crowd. After hes done at the top level, maybe Alex could take him and compete him again. It would be an icing-on-the-cake kind of thing.Of course, if Lexus tells Tamie that he needs to stop competing, she will happily retire him.If he needs to be fully retired, he will be, she says. But I dont know that hell want to just stand in a field.On Being a MotherIn addition to raising sport horses, Tamie has also raised two children, son Tyler, 21, and daughter Kaylawna, 29.[Being a mother] definitely has its struggles, she says. You go through guilt because youre spending time doing something [not family-related] that you have a goal towards. When I travel, its been hard to cope with being away and missing a water polo or basketball game for my kids. That was not always easy.Tamies daughter, Kaylawna, is also a high-level eventing rider with a coaching business and a young daughter of her own. Photo by Shannon BrinkmanHowever, Tamie feels the guilt she and other riders might experience as mothers isnt specific to her sport.Any woman or man in high level careersdoctors, lawyers, and elite athletesall battle the same struggles, she says.To help with any guilt, Tamie tries to look at her time away from her family as a way of setting an example to her kids to go after what they want and to have big goals and expectations of themselves, even if it gets in the way of what tradition might want them to focus on.In addition to being a mother, Tamie is now a grandmother. When her daughter, Kaylawna, married several years ago and then had a daughter of her own, Tamie says Kaylawna also struggled with her confidence and guilt. Of course, mom was there to help coach her through it. Other professional riders who became mothers have also turned to Tamie for advice on how to keep a healthy balance.When it comes to coaching her clients and training the horses, Tamie says that she views being a parent as an advantage.I feel like being a mother helps with your level of compassion and your level of empathy, she says.On Managing GoalsTamie says that she initially planned to also take Dutch Warmblood gelding Elliot V to the 5* at Kentucky in 2023the division that Mai Baum ended up winning. She felt he was on track to meet that goal, but in their last preparatory competition, she decided to rethink her game plan, since he didnt feel quite ready.Ive learned throughout the years that you can never keep a goal set in stone, she says. The slow way is always the fast way, and you only get one good shot at doing this at the top level. Ive learned that if it doesnt seem idealif Im going into a 5* and dont feel like Ive done absolutely everything I possibly could to prepare for it, or any competition for that matterI typically err on the side of caution.Left to right: Tamie Smith, Doug Payne, Lynn Symanski, and Boyd Martin won team gold at the 2019 Pan American Games in Lima, Peru. Photo by Shannon BrinkmanShe moves her horses up the levels at the rate she feels is best by staying true to her morals and trusting her program.I have a pretty solid opinion about what I think horses are ready to do [and] when, Tamie says. I dont feel like taking a 5-year-old Preliminary [37] is appropriate. I have had 5-year-olds that are probably readytheyre bored at Training level [33]but I dont feel like its always in the best interest of their overall development and their minds, and to me it always ends up catching up [to you], so I try to keep things more on a conservative basis.On Being a West-CoasterTamie says that living in Southern California also helps her to not be influenced by others timelines.Its a different atmosphere out here than it is on the East Coast, where everything is showcased in the public eye, whatever you do, she says. [Here] I leave the barn and never see anyone that I know, and Ive found that I really like it that way. Once I leave the barn, Im just Tamie, and not Tamie Smith-who-is-doing-this-or-that.However, sometimes Tamies competitive nature does make things a little tricky.Its difficult sometimes to see what other people are doing and then not get caught up, she says. But its been nice to be focused on my program, believing in it, and then making sure that Im doing the right thing by my horses.On EducationIm a big supporter of going to [college], says Tamie. I think its super important. I know that there are a lot of top riders that dont believe its necessary, so my answer might be a bit controversial. Education is super important for learning how to communicate, navigate through life, and deal with conflict.She says that her formal education has helped her navigate relationships with her horses owners and all of the different personalities she meets. [My education has] enabled me to learn how to communicate and to understand what its like in the real world, and working in corporate America, she says.Before turning to horses as her full-time profession, Tamie worked in the intake department of a mental health facility.I have always been intrigued by mental health, she shares. My original plan was to get my degree in psychology.However, a mentor encouraged Tamie to pursue other avenues toward her goal of helping people when the flaws of the healthcare system began to wear on her.Initially, she was a little bummed about that, because I thought if I went down that avenue [I could] help people navigate through their trials and tribulations.Tamie decided that she would strive to help people in other ways, no matter what career path she went down. Now, as a professional rider and coach, Tamie says that her time working in mental health has given her a unique perspective.It gave me a different perspective as far as learning what works for different types of people when Im coaching, she says. I bring in an old-school approach where I think its very important to be empathetic to your horses. I mean, they dont choose to do what we ask them to do. They do it because they love us. They love the sport as well, but they would be fine and happy to be eating grass in a field, too.Tamie doesnt have a lot of tolerance for impatient riders.Thats something that all of us have to learn as we grow in the sport, she says. It can be frustrating, especially where we have to master three different disciplines. You have to treat your horse with respect, the way you would want to be treated.From a competitive standpoint, Tamie adds that the mental element is almost more important than physical talent, and that a lot of counseling goes into producing good riders and horses.Clearly her background has been perfect preparation for reaching the top of her sport. It takes nerves of steel to put the pressure aside and perform at your best at a 5* event like Kentucky, but Tamie showed the world she is more than capable.Tamie Smiths Likes and DislikesFavorite Cross-Country Jump: Something that gets you up in the air. A big brush jump into water. Going across Kentucky and jumping any of those jumps has been the most thrilling experience ever.Least Favorite Cross-Country Jump: A frangible hanging vertical into a coffin [ditch]. Definitely my least favorite.Favorite Stadium Jump: I really like jumping triple bars.Least Favorite Stadium Jump: A plain, natural-looking jump. Maybe a vertical because I feel like that is more likely to be knocked down.Favorite Dressage Movement:I love flying changes. I love half-pass and lateral-type movements.Least favorite Dressage Movement:I hate halting and going up the center line. Im not very good at that.Cross-Country Pump-Up song: Unstoppable, by SiaMore Tamie Smith ContentOur Webinar with Tamie SmithOur Next Level Series with Tamie SmithThis article about Tamie Smith was the cover story of the August 2023 issue of Horse Illustratedmagazine.Click here to subscribe!The post Tamie Smith: Taking It To The Next Level appeared first on Horse Illustrated Magazine.

Section Key Points Embrace the Ride: Horse Riding Basics and Finding the Perfect Instructor - Horse riding intertwines a bond between humans and horses. - Finding the right instructor is essential for learning. Uncovering the Essentials of Horse Riding - Mounting from the left side using a mounting block. - Correct posture: Ears over shoulders, shoulders over hips, heels down. - Diverse rein handling in Western and English styles. Steering and Stopping - Neck reining and plow reining for steering. - Stopping through gentle reins pressure and posture shift. Choosing the Ideal Instructor - Look for certified instructors. - Teaching style should include safety and emergency handling. - Facility maintenance reflects the school's quality. The Power of Testimonials and Recommendations - Rely on student testimonials and recommendations for instructor selection. Enhancing Your Riding Skills - Regular practice builds muscle memory and balance. - Clinics and workshops offer new perspectives. - Stay calm to improve the connection with the horse. Conclusion - Horse riding becomes a dance of respect and enjoyment. - Skills improve through knowledge and practice. Essential Resources for New Riders - Jodhpurs, stable rugs, fly protection, supplements, and treats. - Complete attire and enhance horses well-being. Embrace the Ride: Horse Riding Basics and Finding the Perfect Instructor The thrill of horse riding extends beyond the elegance of mounting a horse. It's a profound journey that intertwines the bond between humans and these magnificent animals. Whether you dream to trot along nature's trails or seek mastery for competitive events, finding the right guidance is paramount. Join us in this exploration of horse riding basics and the quest for a skilled instructor who will amplify your learning. Uncovering the Essentials of Horse Riding Mounting and Riding Position Amidst the initial lessons, mounting correctly preserves the horse's well-being. Approach the horse from its left side, and a mounting block can be your friend to keep the strain off the horse's back. With one hand on the reins and reliable balance, mastery begins as you align your posture ears over shoulders, shoulders over hips, and heels down forming a straight line from head to toe. Rein Handling Diverging into Western and English riding styles, each bears its unique style of rein handling. The delicate art of holding reins defines your connection and commands with the horse. Whether one or two hands, gentleness reigns supreme to prevent discomfort for our equine friends [4]. Steering and Stopping Steering breaks into two avenues neck reining for finesse and plow reining for clarity. Meanwhile, stopping happens through gentle pressure on the reins paired with a shift in posture, signaling the deceleration [3][4]. Choosing the Ideal Instructor Credentials and Experience Matter Like selecting a skilled artist to draw the invisible, your instructor must be versed in the language of horses and riders. Certified from credible bodies like the Certified Horsemanship Association or the British Horse Society, these instructors should cater to **your proficiency level** and aspirations. The Art of Teaching Style Whether harmonizing technique or fostering friendships with horses, instructor styles vary. Safety and emergency handling are hallmarks of effective educators, ensuring secure learning environments. A Glimpse Into Facilities Walk the grounds of your potential learning field, ensuring cleanliness and maintenance. Horses, well-tended and approachable, speak volumes about the facility's merits. Creating a conducive environment initiates a serene learning process. The Power of Testimonials and Recommendations Instructors often travel by word of mouth. Student testimonials and reviews allow glimpses into the communitys experiences a vital resource in your selection. Enhancing Your Riding Skills Practice as a Pillar Echoing the mantra of athletic mastery, regular practice fortifies muscle memory and equilibrium. Scheduled rides nurture continuous enhancements. Engagement Through Clinics and Workshops Explore the broad spectrum of clinical environments, learning from diverse instructors who illuminate new perspectives and riding techniques. Staying Calm and Connected Horses tune into our energies peaceful rides stem from calm demeanors. Communicate with subtly, underpinning a mutual understanding that enriches each session. Conclusion Engrained with enthusiasm and the right instructor, the art of horse riding evolves into a beautiful dance of respect and enjoyment. As your skills refine through foundational knowledge and diligent practice, your relationship with horses blossoms, sowing seeds of gratification and joyous rides ahead. Essential Resources for New Riders Jodhpur Collection: Complete your attire with the essential equipment. Stable Rugs: Keep your horse comfortable in the stable. Horse Fly Protection: Ensure your horse remains unbothered by flies. Horse Supplements: Enhance your horses nutritional health. Horse Treats and Gifts: Reward your horse and spread joy! Ready to embark on your journey with grace and galloping joy? Happy riding!

Ocala, FL World Equestrian Center Ocala (WEC) is pleased to announce a new partnership with Dover Saddlery, the largest omni-channel retailer of equestrian products in the United States. As Dover Saddlery celebrates 50 years of serving the riding community, this collaboration reflects a shared commitment to providing an exceptional experience for equestrians at every level. Founded by United States Equestrian Team members, Dover[...]Read MoreThe post World Equestrian Center Ocala Welcomes Dover Saddlery as an Official Partner appeared first on World Equestrian Center.