Some of the biggest indicators of a horses health are his body condition, weight, and muscle development. So if youre starting to see your horses ribs, or if he has a less-than-desirable toplinethe muscles that support the spine, neck, and hindquartersthen he might need to build weight or muscle. But what is the difference between adding weight and muscle? How do you know which your horse needs, or is he deficient in both? And, then, how can dietary changes help your horse bulk up? Dietary Energy 101Its important to understand dietary energy and how it relates to a horses food sources. Basically, energy equals calories, which are measured in kilocalories. In horses, which need thousands of kilocalories per day, energy requirements are expressed as megacalories (Mcal). There are various types of energygross energy (GE), digestible energy (DE), metabolizable energy (ME), and net energy (NE)but, for the purposes of this article, well focus on DE. This is the energy listed on feed labels and that nutritionists reference most. Its the energy that can be digested from a feed after adjusting for the energy lost in fecal output. Because calculations within the equine nutrition industry vary, DE values of feedstuffs are considered estimates.For energy, horses consume fat, carbohydrates, and protein. Fats are the most calorically dense feed, at 9.4 kcal/gram of GE (the heat produced when a feed is completely oxidized, or burned). Carbs offer 4.15 kcal/gram, and proteins 5.65 kcals/gram. Carbohydrates (fiber, starches, and sugars) are the main components of forages. Horses require them for digestive health, to help buffer stomach acid, and as a good energy source. Protein is the least-efficient energy source, says Russell Mueller, MS, PAS, a member of the Equine Research and Innovation Team at Cargill Animal Nutrition, in Minneapolis, Minnesota. Horses can expend more energy digesting protein than they gain from it, he says.Now lets think about how a veterinarian or nutritionist might recommend you add weight, muscle, or both to a horse. Note that if a horse is calorie-deficient, he will also be muscle-depleted. You cannot build muscle without adequate calories, says Clair Thunes, PhD, an independent equine nutritionist and owner of Summit Equine Nutrition, in Gilbert, Arizona.Evaluating the HorseThe first thing to do is evaluate the horse to see where he falls on the Henneke body condition score (BCS) chart, says Mueller. Ideally, the horse should score between a 4 and 6, meaning you can feel but not see his ribs. His withers, neck, and shoulders should be rounded, and the withers should have a layer of fat over them. The horse has a crease down the back, but it is not pronounced. The backbone, tailhead, and hip bones also have some fat cover.If your horse is ribby (and a veterinarian has ruled out underlying health issues causing weight loss), he needs more calories in his diet, says Mueller. If the horse is angular over his topline (withers, back, loin, top of the hip, and croup region) and/or is sunken in around the neck, he needs to build muscle. Developing the topline is important because it plays a vital role in how a horse performs and handles when ridden. Adjusting the protein and amino acids in the diet can help.Adding Calories for More Fat CoverEach horse requires a minimum DE per day for maintenance (to stay the same weight). Different activity levels increase daily DE requirements. You can find these values in the National Research Councils (NRC) 2007 Nutrient Requirements of Horses, although many horse owners simply consult their veterinarians or nutritionists about their horses nutritional needs. These experts can evaluate what nutrients each horse is taking in with his base diet to see if that diet is appropriate or needs to be changed.For a horse to gain weight, it takes an increase of about 20 Mcals of DE above maintenance to gain 1 kilogram (2.2 pounds). However, this varies depending on grain composition and energy sources. To move up one score on the Henneke scale, says Thunes, a horse needs to gain 16-20 kilograms (35-44 pounds), but this varies depending on the horses weight. Assuming your horse needs 20 kilograms to move up the scale, he must consume a total of approximately 400 Mcals above maintenance needs. Thunes presents two possible scenarios for adding more calories:You could feed the horse an additional 5 pounds of grass hay, which will provide about 4-4.5 Mcals per day. Therefore, it would take around 100 days for the horse to move up one BCS. You could feed the horse the minimum serving of a higher calorie feed, such as a senior or performance feed (about 6 pounds is a common minimum daily serving, says Thunes). Then it might only take 45 days to move up one BCS as the horse consumes around an additional 9 Mcals per day (this could differ based on individual feed formulation). The NRC has created a table (see below) showing how much time it takes for a horse to go from 4 to 5 on the Henneke scale, based on how much additional DE hes consuming above maintenance. Estimated increase in digestible energy (DE) intake necessaryto change the condition score of a 500-kg (1,100-lb) horse from 4 to 5Time Period to Accomplish GainDE Above Maintenance (Mcal/d)Percent Increase in DE Above Maintenance60 days5.3-6.732-41%90 days3.6-4.422-27%120 days2.7-3.316-21%150 days2.1-2.713-16%180 days1.8-2.211-14%Assumptions: 1 unit of change of condition score requires 16-20 kg of gain, and 1 kg gain requires 20 Mcal DE above maintenance.Forage Comes FirstWhen changing a horses diet, Thunes takes a forage-first approach, which is the safest way to put on weight. Because alfalfa provides more calories per pound than grass hay, she says owners can switch up to 25% of their hay to alfalfa. If this does not do the trick, feeds using fiber sources like beet pulp and soybean hulls are a good option, as these are still fiber but higher in calories, she says. Mueller has found that owners are more willing to change their feed or their supplements than their forage, simply because of availability and/or growing conditions. A more cost-effective route may be to spend a little more money on your hay versus spending a lot more money on feed, if you have another hay type or quality available to you, he adds.Mueller says he might suggest owners in regions where bermuda hay is prevalent switch to a cool-season grass hay (e.g., orchardgrass, bromegrass), which will provide more calories per pound. Add Fat and Carbohydrates NextIf you cant achieve weight gain with pasture or hay and other fiber sources alone, Thunes recommends adding something more calorically dense to the diet or substituting some of the forage with a new feed. Concentrate feeds that are higher in fermentable fiber, fat, and/or starch are going to be more calorically dense than most hays, she says. Mueller always asks owners about their horses temperaments, because calories from a starch source can hype up a horse, which might not be desirable for an already-excitable animal. He adds that he might, however, use a higher starch- or sugar-based carbohydrate source of calories to add weight to a horse that does high-intensity bursts of speed in competitionroping, barrel racing, short-distance racehorses, etc.because they need this type of energy source. For more excitable horses, instead of starch Mueller adds a fat source such as oil. He prefers flaxseed or soy oil versus canola or corn oil because the latter two have poorer omega-3 to omega-6 ratios, which can increase inflammation in the horses body. When he wants to provide the essential omega-3 fatty acids docosahexaenoic acid and eicosapentaenoic acid, Mueller says fish oil has its benefits. When supplementing fat, a horse might hit a maximum intake threshold with liquid fat if he doesnt like consuming a lot of fluid in his feed. Therefore, Mueller sometimes uses an extruded fat supplement.In addition, he might suggest a blend of fat and carbohydrate calories, because pure fat-based calories are pricey. Developing MuscleWhile muscle development happens bodywide in horses, it is easier to see and measure using the horses topline, says Mueller. To evaluate a horses muscle development, he uses a topline evaluation system that scores muscle quality along the topline from an A to a D. He says this system acts as a supplement to the Henneke body condition scoring system. To add or develop muscle you must evaluate your horses current dietary protein levels and sources before increasing intake or changing protein sources. Mueller says he might opt to add a higher-protein feed or supplements or make a change in hay.Alfalfa is one of my protein levers, he says. Alfalfas benefit is that it can up protein and add calories for a horse that needs both.RELATED CONTENT | Feeding the Horses ToplineCrude protein requirements for horses vary. An adult horse at maintenance only requires 10% protein. Performance horses are often fed a product with 14% crude protein, while halter horses might get upward of 16%. Researchers have not determined a maximum amount of protein that can be fed.When choosing a protein source, says Mueller, the amino acid profile is key because amino acids are proteins building blocks. While horse owners might only see the crude protein content listed on a feed label, they can ask the manufacturer more about the amino acid profile.Thousands of amino acids exist in nature, but only 20 have dietary benefits for horses. Ten of these are essential amino acids, meaning the horse cant make them and, thus, must consume them in his diet. The ratio of these amino acids and the amount of those amino acids are what determine your protein quality, Mueller says. You need to focus on the quantity and quality of the amino acids. Are you getting enough, and are you getting the right amounts of specific amino acids that will truly bring about the best muscle development in the horse?A limiting amino acid is an essential amino acid that sometimes doesnt appear in adequate amounts in a feed. A horse cannot synthesize adequate protein if he doesnt consume enough limiting amino acid. New protein will only be synthesized to the amount of the limiting amino acids. If the horse runs out of limiting amino acids, he cant make use of the other amino acids he has consumed. Lysine is the only amino acid that has a specific listed requirement in the NRC guidelines. For a 500-kilogram (1,100-pound) adult horse at maintenance, NRC recommends 27 grams of lysine per day, but this amount changes based on the horses age and use. For instance, a lactating mare in the first month after foaling needs 85 grams of lysine per day. Soybean meal and other seed meals are great lysine sources, says Mueller, and show up in many feed ingredient lists. Thunes says whey protein that provides the branched-chain amino acids, especially leucine, will help support muscle development, as well. For some horses Mueller might recommend a diet ration balancer with high protein or purified amino acid supplements. He says the issue with supplements, however, is the lack of research behind them, so much of the information he has gathered is from field observations. Take-Home MessageWhen a horse needs added bulk, in fat or muscle or both, its crucial you make the right changes to supply the necessary dietary components to see improvements. When in doubt, an equine nutritionist or your veterinarian can help guide you through these changes. This can help eliminate expensive and unrewarding blind guesses and trial and error.

A 24-year-old Thoroughbred gelding at a boarding facility in Wellington County, Ontario, recently tested positive for equine herpesvirus-1 (EHV-1) after becoming acutely neurologic on April 10. The gelding was euthanized. The facility owner has instituted voluntary animal movement restrictions and biosecurity procedures.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.EHV 101Herpesvirus is highly contagious among horses and can cause a variety of ailments in equids, including rhinopneumonitis (a respiratory disease usually found in young horses), abortion in broodmares, and EHM.In many horses, the first or only sign of EHV-1 infection is fever, which can go undetected.In addition to fever, other common signs of EHV-1 infection in young horses include cough, decreased appetite, depression, and a nasal discharge. Pregnant mares typically show no signs of infection before they abort, and abortions usually occur late in gestation (around eight months) but can be earlier. Abortions can occur anywhere from two weeks to several months following infection with EHV-1.Horses with EHM usually have a fever at the onset of the disease and might show signs of a respiratory infection. A few days later, neurologic signs such as ataxia (incoordination), weakness or paralysis of the fore- and hind limbs, urine retention and dribbling, loss of tail tone, and recumbency (inability to rise) develop.Herpesvirus is easily spread by nose-to-nose or close contact with an infectious horse; sharing contaminated equipment including bits, buckets, and towels; or clothing, hands, or equipment of people who have recently had contact with an infectious horse.Routine biosecurity measures, including hygiene and basic cleaning and disinfection practices, should be in place at all times to help prevent disease spread.Current EHV-1 vaccines might reduce viral shedding but are not protective against the neurologic form of the disease. Implementing routine biosecurity practices is the best way to minimize viral spread, and the best method of disease control is disease prevention.

Laminitis exemplifies complex pain, involving multiple overlapping pain pathways that can be difficult to manage. | Courtesy Dr. Chris PollittPain in horses is a complex state. Laminitis exemplifies this complexity, involving multiple overlapping pain pathways that can be difficult to manage.It is so complex that we continue to struggle with keeping on top of it in cases of laminitis due to our lack of safe, efficacious protocols, said Alonso Guedes, DVM, MS, PhD, Dipl. ACVAA, during his presentation at the 2024 American Association of Equine Practitioners Convention, held Dec. 7-11, in Orlando, Florida. Guedes is professor of anesthesia and pain medicine at the University of Minnesotas College of Veterinary Medicine, in St. Paul.Our inability to manage the severe, debilitating pain is the single most common reason for electing euthanasia in cases of laminitis, he added. Laminitis is a painful condition in which the sensitive tissues anchoring the coffin bone inside the hoof capsulecalled the lamellae or laminaebecome inflamed and compromised. In advanced cases this damage can cause the coffin bone to rotate or sink as the internal support fails. Guedes described the multiple mechanisms involved in the onset of pain in horses with laminitis, including:Mechanical disruption of the lamellar tissues that cause nociceptive pain (the traditional acute pain many of us think of);Inflammation of the lamellae that causes inflammatory pain;Systemic inflammation with the release of cytokines (proteins important in cell signaling), such as tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-a). This cytokine increases neuronal excitability, increasing the firing rate of sensory pain neurons, Guedes said.Laminitic horses also suffer from changes in peripheral neurons that transmit signals between the central nervous system and the rest of the body. Changes in those fibers, the A-delta (d) myelinated fibers, and C fibers likely contribute to neuropathic pain. Neuropathic pain is difficult to treat, its not very responsive to NSAIDs (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs) or opioids, and the changes to the nerve fibers start early in laminitis, he explained. Indeed, the significant overlap between nociceptive, neuropathic, and inflammatory (both local and systemic) pain is what makes laminitic pain so complex.Assessing Laminitic Pain in HorsesLaminitic horses often show telltale signsweight-shifting, a sawhorse stance, and appearing depressed at the back of the stallbut Guedes said there arent any validated methods for assessing laminitis pain in horses.Subjectively, veterinarians can use a visual analog scale (VAS), which is essentially a line extending from 0 (no pain) to 10 (could not be more lame/painful). This method is fairly reliable between laypeople and veterinarians; however, people spending time with the horse might adapt to the horses behavior and misassign the grade, said Guedes. In other words, chronic pain can become a horses new normal.Analgesic Options for Laminitic Pain in HorsesGuedes said there is no doubt multimodal analgesia is more efficacious than a single modality. A single modality cant treat all the different types of pain, he said.But other than NSAIDs, what options do veterinarians have?Tramadol(Tramadol) inhibits mu-opioid receptors as well as serotonin and norepinephrine reuptake in pain pathways, and it decreases levels of TNF-a, said Guedes. So, even by itself tramadol has multiple mechanisms of action.In one study, researchers examined the effect of 5 mg per kg of body weight of oral tramadol twice daily for seven days. Using force plates they measured the horses discomfort by how often horses off-loaded their limbs, shifting weight from foot to foot. The researchers noticed only a transient decrease in off-loading and, by Day 7 of treatment, the horses began off-loading again at baseline levels. In a second study using 10 mg/kg, however, scientists identified more sustained pain relief with no adverse effects. KetamineKetamine blocks N-methyl-d-aspartate (NMDA, an amino acid derivative) receptors, which amplify pain signals. Even with a stimulus that shouldnt produce very much pain, NMDA receptors enhance it, said Guedes. Ketamine blocks the NMDA receptors located in peripheral nerve endings contacting the laminae and within the spinal cord, modulating pain signals.Ketamine might also suppress TNF-a production. Researchers on one study evaluated a combination of ketamine and tramadol in 15 chronic laminitis cases. They administered ketamine at a rate of 0.6 mg/kg intravenously every six hours for the first three days of the study. Again, using the force plates, the investigators found that the horses decreased their off-loading frequency for the entire seven-day treatment period and the first three days beyond cessation of tramadol.GabapentinGuedes explained that gabapentin blocks voltage gated calcium channels in nerve fibers transmitting pain signals toward the brain and from the brain to the spinal cord. Veterinarians typically treat horses with 20 mg/kg, which can be effective, but researchers on recent studies in horses use doses as high as 120 mg/kg without producing adverse events.OthersResearchers studying an oligofructose model of laminitis (not clinical cases) found that delivering local anesthetics via continuous peripheral nerve block with dilute bupivacaine yielded positive results and reduced the animals off-loading frequency.Alternatively, liposomal bupivacaine delivered via abaxial nerve block (placed at the base of the proximal sesamoid bones, which are located at the back of the fetlock, to numb the structures below the fetlock) provided 24 hours of analgesia in an experimental model of hoof pain. Scientists are examining soluble epoxide hydrolase (sEH) inhibitors in human clinical trials for neuropathic pain. Guedes said some preliminary work conducted in horses with laminitis has yielded promising results.Take-Home MessageVeterinarians should recognize the complexity of laminitic pain in horsesincluding the nociceptive, neuropathic, and inflammatory componentsand take a multimodal approach to pain management.

An 18-year-old equine apprentice from Derbyshire has been presented with the 2025 Stubbing Court Training (SCT) Ltds Enterprise Award.Ruby Thompson, who works at Hargate Equestrian Centre, a BHS approved livery yard, riding school and training centre in Derby, received the award, which rewards awareness, understanding and proactivity in business development among its apprentices, from international showjumper William Whitaker.SCTs Enterprise Award is part of the East Midlands-based training companys endeavours to incentivise, encourage and inspire its equine apprentices to develop all the skills they need to establish sound, long-lasting and rewarding careers in the equestrian world.Ruby was one of three finalists who were interviewed on a Powerpoint presentation which theyd put together showing the work they had done with their employers on the business plan they had created.William Whitaker with finalists (l-r) Ruby Thomson, Grace Houghton and Evie RevellNIKON D5 f/16 1/320s 40mm ISO400The other finalists were Grace Houghton from Brook Farm Stables in Warrington and Evie Revell, who is an apprentice at Cottagers Plot Equestrian Centre in Grimsby.Difficult decisionThe finalists were all of such a high standard, and it was an extremely difficult decision to pick the winner, said William.They had all made a huge effort and showed a massive commitment to the businesses they are employed with, as well as an impressive insight into what makes a business successful.It was very interesting to hear the differences between the types of yard and the comparisons between a riding school, a livery yard and an international level competition yard.Ruby was very thorough in her interview, had clear ideas about the improvements she could make to help the business and then had put them into action.Cash prizeWilliam presented Ruby with her award, which included a cash prize of 150, during a masterclass at Parklands Equestrian Centre in Sheffield earlier this month.Congratulations to Ruby for her hard work, commitment to learning and business success, and the great contributions she has made to support Hargate EC, said Belinda Turner, SCT chief executive.Image Stubbing Court Training Ltd.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 Equine apprentice from Derbyshire wins award appeared first on Your Horse.

Category Key Points Understanding Special Needs Ponies may have physical disabilities, behavioral issues, or medical conditions. Require tailored care to manage weight and prevent health issues like insulin dysregulation. Nutritional Management Monitor diet to prevent overeating and weight gain. Use body condition scoring and veterinary check-ups. Exercise and Movement Regular exercise is crucial for physical and mental health, to manage weight, and improve muscle tone. Environmental Enrichment Allow ponies to express natural behaviors by providing access to friends, forage, and varied living spaces. Pasture and Fencing Management Ensure safe fencing and use strip-grazing to control food intake. Manage pastures to prevent overgrazing. Finding Suitable Homes Assess pony's specific needs, evaluate potential homes, consult professionals, and leverage networks for adoption. Equine-Assisted Therapies Beneficial for both ponies and humans; provides mental stimulation and exercise for ponies. What Are the Best Strategies for Managing and Finding Suitable Homes for Ponies with Special Needs?Managing ponies with special needs can be both rewarding and challenging. To provide the best care for these small but mighty equines, it's crucial to understand their specific requirements and ensure they have suitable homes. Below, we explore essential strategies for managing and finding the right homes for ponies with special needs.Understanding Special Needs in PoniesPonies with special needs might have conditions like physical disabilities, behavioral issues, or medical conditions requiring extra care. Their small size often hides their robust personalities and specific needs, making it essential to tailor their management and care carefully. Understanding these needs is the first step in providing appropriate care. For example, nutritional supervision is critical for ponies to manage their weight and prevent health issues like insulin dysregulation.Strategies for Managing Ponies with Special NeedsNutritional ManagementPonies have different nutritional needs compared to larger horses. They require close monitoring of their diet to prevent overeating or weight gain, which can lead to health problems. Using body condition scoring systems and regular veterinary check-ups can help manage their weight effectively.Exercise and MovementRegular exercise is vital for maintaining the physical and mental health of ponies. This can include ridden work, longeing, hand-walking, or free movement in pastures. Exercise helps manage weight and improves muscle tone, reducing the risk of obesity-related conditions.Environmental EnrichmentProviding an environment that allows ponies to express natural behaviors is essential. This includes access to friends, forage, and freedomprinciples known as the 3Fs. Offering choices in their living space, like different surfaces to roll on or shelter options, can enhance their mental well-being [3].Pasture and Fencing ManagementSafe and suitable fencing is critical for ponies, as they can be agile and escape if not properly contained. Using rows of electrical tape on fences can prevent them from slipping through gaps. Pasture management techniques like strip-grazing help control their food intake and prevent overgrazing [5].Finding Suitable Homes for PoniesAssess the Pony's NeedsUnderstanding the specific needs of the pony, including any medical requirements or behavioral issues, is paramount. This initial assessment sets the stage for finding suitable homes that can provide the care they need.Evaluate Potential HomesLook for homes with experienced caregivers who can provide tailored care. Consider factors like available space, fencing quality, and the ability to provide regular veterinary visits. Not every home will be appropriate, so it's essential to thoroughly evaluate the living conditions and commitment of potential adopters.Consult with ProfessionalsCollaborate with veterinarians or equine professionals to assess potential homes and ensure they meet the pony's needs. Their expertise can offer insights that might not be immediately obvious to non-experts.Network and OutreachUse local equine networks or online forums to reach out to potential caregivers who have experience with special needs ponies. Leveraging these networks can help locate homes that already understand the specific challenges and joys of caring for a pony with special needs.Equine-Assisted Therapies for Special NeedsFor ponies and horses, equine-assisted therapies are not only beneficial for humans but can also be therapeutic for the equines involved. Engaging in activities like therapeutic riding or hippotherapy can provide mental stimulation and exercise for the ponies, while also aiding individuals with special needs [1].ConclusionManaging and finding suitable homes for ponies with special needs requires careful attention to their unique requirements. By understanding their needs and implementing tailored care strategies, we can ensure these ponies live happy and healthy lives. Additionally, their involvement in equine-assisted therapies can have mutual benefits, enhancing their well-being while supporting individuals with special needs.For readers interested in equine-assisted therapies and managing special needs ponies, additional resources include: Equine-Assisted Therapy Options for Special Needs Horse Management Essentials Caring for PoniesThese resources offer insights into therapeutic riding, pony care, and managing equines with special needs.To explore more equestrian apparel and supplements, visit our collections of Jodhpurs, Horse Riding Boots, and Socks. Don't forget to check out our Everyday Horse Vitamins & Supplements and Horse Treats And Gifts!Explore our essentials such as Stable Rugs and Turnout Rugs, along with Horse Fly Protection to ensure a comfortable environment for all equine friends.

Premier Performance provides a cutting-edge line of nutritional formulas for health, maintenance, competition and recovery for the athletic equine. All of their products contain natural ingredients of the highest quality. With the use of Nitric Oxide Pathway technology, their proprietary blends focus on protein, vitamins, amino acids, herbs and mineral supplements.The following blog has been written for Premier Performance by Professor Jo-Anne Murray.Horses are highly reactive, flighty and naturally cautious animals for very good reasons. In the wild, horses need to be able to respond quickly to any potential threat and that involves always being alert and able to run from danger at any time. Whilst these behaviours are required in the wild, theyre not ideal from a training and handling perspective in the domesticated horse.Therefore, we use training techniques to develop the well adjusted horse that is able to cope with the many demands placed upon it. This training relies on the horse being well socialised, having positive early life experiences, being gradually weaned and being desensitised and habituated to potentially threatening situations. The foregoing allows the horse to become flexible in his/her behavioural responses due to low fear levels. A well-adjusted horse that has low stress levels is also more able to learn and is therefore more trainable.The Excitable and/or Nervous HorseFirstly, when considering your horses behaviour, its important to appreciate their age and level of training; for example, a young, inexperienced youngster is likely to be anxious during a first outing away from home. For more experienced horses, an anxious horse can develop behaviours that affect their behaviour, making them more difficult to handle or train. A horse that is difficult to work with or ride can be more at risk of injuring themselves or the person handling or riding them. Therefore, it is important to try and resolve this.The first approach to calming your horse is to assess its management and training, sometimes a simple change in these areas can resolve any issues. In terms of management, it can be helpful to consider your horses diet. Feedstuffs containing starch can impact on your horses behaviour many studies have shown a link between diets containing starch and an increased undesirable reactivity (e.g. spooking). If, after adjusting any diet and/or management issues that may be contributing to the behaviour you find that your horse is still anxious, and you have consulted your vet on any possible health issues that may be related to this, then you may want to consider the use of a calmer.Using Horse CalmersThere are various types of calmers available for horses with a range of ingredients in them. Here we look at three common constituents found in horse calmers:Magnesium is a trace element and is often the most common ingredient in many calming supplements. The form of magnesium affects how much is absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract and used by the animal, which is also known as bioavailability. For example, inorganic magnesium oxide has low bioavailability compared to an organic form, such as magnesium citrate. There is some evidence in mice that magnesium may have an anti-depressant type of effect and may also reduce anxiety. Research studies to date have suggested that magnesium-rich supplements may reduce heart rate and reactivity in horses. There is also some evidence of efficacy when magnesium is fed alongside other herbal substances. However, studies in horses are limited and further work is required.Another common ingredient in horse calmers is tryptophan, which is an amino acid thats primary role is to act as a precursor for serotonin (a neurotransmitter). Serotonin has a wide range of functions in the body but is mostly found in the digestive system. It acts on almost every part of the body, from the gastrointestinal tract to the brain. In the gastrointestinal tract, serotonin regulates the movement of food through the gut. In the brain, serotonin is thought to play a role in regulating anxiety. An increase in serotonin in the brain has been associated with reduced anxiety and increased learning and memory in several species. Serotonin also contributes to an animals sense of satiation (satisfaction), which directly impacts behaviour. For example, if a horse is satisfied with available resources (e.g. food) then it recognises that it doesnt have to fight for resources, which can impact on behaviour. However, research studies to date have not established these effects for the horse.Tyrosine is another amino acid that is included in some calming supplements and is a precursor for the neurotransmitters dopamine, adrenaline and noradrenaline. These factors play an important role in learning, memory, behaviour, attention and mood. In humans, supplementing with tyrosine has been seen to improve stress-induced cognitive and behaviour deficits, particularly in relation to working memory and attention focussed tasks. During periods of stress the brain releases a stress signal to the body by pumping adrenaline into the bloodstream. This makes the heart beat faster than normal, pushing blood to the muscles, heart and other vital organs. The airways also open wide so that the lungs can inhale as much oxygen as possible. Sight, hearing and other senses also become sharper and blood sugar (glucose) levels rise as the body releases energy stores. Stress depletes the brains stores of neurochemicals involved in memory, focus and learning. When stressed horses produce more adrenaline, this can also deplete tyrosine levels. A shortage of tyrosine appears to lead to insufficient levels in the brain and this is thought to result in behavioural issues. Therefore, its not that tyrosine increases the production of these neurochemicals, rather it replaces depleted stores. Indeed, studies in animals and humans have found tyrosine to help alleviate the behavioural consequences of stress. Again, further research is required to ascertain the effects of this in the horse.SummaryManaging an excitable horse can be challenging, but also very rewarding. Through careful management, training and nutritional support, an excitable and nervous horse can be transformed into a trainable and calmer individual. Evidence suggests that mimicking the horses natural eating patterns as far as is practically possible by lowering starch intake, increasing fibre intake, and feeding little and often, is extremely beneficial in alleviating/reducing many unwanted behaviours. Therefore, efforts should be direct towards balancing the provision of a diet that meets the nutrient requirements of the horse with satisfying the behavioural needs of an animal designed to eat a low-quality, high-fibre diet on an almost continual basis. Adding a calmer to your horses diet may also be beneficial for those times where your horse is experiencing anxiety, which is impacting on his or her behaviour.Premier Performance CZs Calming Cookies and Calming Powder are designed to complement good management and training practices by enhancing the trainability and handling of your horse, especially at times of stress; for example, travelling and competing as well as vet and farrier visits. Their innovative formula helps your horse to stay calm, focused and confident. They do not sedate or effect gait, they take the edge off but not the sparkle. Premier Performance CZs calmers are a powerful and unique combination of herbs and amino acids which do not contain valerian, magnesium or tryptophan and they are competition-safe. Discover all Premier Performance CZ The post Premier Performance: How and When to Use Horse Calmers first appeared on Redpost Equestrian Blog.

Welcome to Horse Illustrateds weekly installment of the Right Horse Adoptable Horse of the Week, offered in partnership with the ASPCAs Right Horse program. This weeks adoptable horse is Camp Hope!Check back weekly for a new featured horse so you can find your Right Horse.Photo courtesy Second StrideAdoptable Horse: Camp Hope, a 7-year-old, 16.1hh Thoroughbred geldingOrganization: Second Stride, Prospect, Ky.Get to Know Adoptable Horse Camp HopeMeet Camp Hope, a son of Summer Front (by War Front) and out of Praising (by Pulpit). A stakes winner of $473,346 on the track, Hope is eligible for the Retired Racehorse Projects Thoroughbred Makeover Competition.Hope last worked on December 11, 2024 and retired with a left front suspensory tear. He also has a left front ankle chip that can be taken out if used for an athletic career. Additionally, he has an old splint fracture in the same leg. He can start under saddle at the walk only for no more than 20 minutes at a time through May 2, 2025. At this point, if he is sound in hand, he can begin no more than 5 minutes of jogging. He is still on round pen turnout for 60 days ending on June 2, 2025. An ultrasound will be needed at that point to determine his full turnout options if the suspensory has healed.Hope is absolutely stunning with his almost black coat, diamond shaped star and beautiful, big, brown eyes. He is as kind as he is handsome. He does like to take things in and took about a day to settle into the farm at Second Stride; he seems intelligent and inquisitive. He is respectful of his handlers and is good for grooming and blanketing. He behaves well when being led but can be reactive to sounds. Second Stride expects this to improve as he settles in and gets turnout.Hope is available to anyone now who can accommodate his rehab needs and will follow the recommended vet requirements.Second Stride is hopeful he will be suitable for any discipline; however, this will be determined in June once the suspensory has healed fully.Hope is very well-behaved under saddle. Even though he was nervous on his first ride, he kept his cool and listened to and trusted his rider and eased into his ride. This guy is just the sweetest, quietest, most intelligent guy you could ever want.Contact Second Stride today about ASPCA Right Horse Adoptable Horse of the Week, Camp Hope!ASPCA Right HorseASPCA Right Horse is the online adoption platform of The Right Horse Initiative, a collection of equine industry and welfare professionals and advocates working together to improve the lives of horses in transition. A program of the ASPCA, their goal is to massively increase horse adoption in the United States. To find more adoptable horses and foster horses, visit www.myrighthorse.org. To learn more about The Right Horse, a program of the ASPCA, visit www.aspcarighthorse.org.The post ASPCA Right Horse Adoptable Horse of the Week: Camp Hope appeared first on Horse Illustrated Magazine.

Category Hogging Plaiting Definition Mane and tail cut short, close to the skin. Braiding or twisting the mane into organized strands. Suitable For Racing and outdoor horses. Show horses and competitive disciplines. Benefits Practicality: Minimal grooming time. Health: Reduces heat stress in warm climates. Aesthetics: Polished appearance for competitions. Maintenance: Prevents tangles and knots. Considerations Working horses: Less dirt buildup. Climate: Keeps horse cooler. Competitive horses: Elegant image. Tips Use proper clippers and tools. Adjust length seasonally. Observe breed standards. Start young to train mane. Use detangling sprays and conditioners. Practice regularly to improve quality. Hogging or Plaiting: Deciding the Best Grooming Style for Your Horse When it comes to grooming your horse, two popular styles often come to mind: hogging and plaiting. Both styles possess unique characteristics and serve different purposes, which can significantly influence your horse's appearance and comfort. In this article, we will explore the essentials of each grooming style, their distinct advantages, and the impact they have on your horse's overall well-being. Understanding Hogging and Plaiting Hogging refers to a grooming approach where a horse's mane and tail are cut short, close to the skin. This style is prevalent in various disciplines, including racing and for horses that spend ample time outdoors. By adopting hogging, you can manage excessive hair growth, minimize grooming time, and maintain cleanliness since it prevents allergy-inducing dirt and insects from accumulating. Plaiting, alternatively, involves braiding or twisting the mane into tidy, organized strands. Often seen in show horses and competitive disciplines, plaiting enhances the horse's aesthetics while ensuring the mane remains free from entanglement and matting. Benefits of Each Style Hogging Benefits Practicality: Hogging offers a practical solution for horses working under harsh conditions or those with limited grooming time. It prevents long hair from becoming matted or clogged with debris, maintaining a cleaner appearance [Houghton Country]. Health: In warmer climates, hogging can stave off heat stress by reducing insulating hair, making life more comfortable for your horse [The Open Sanctuary Project]. Plaiting Benefits Aesthetics: Offering a polished and professional appearance, plaiting is ideal for competitions and shows. Maintenance: Regular plaiting trains the mane to lie flat, thereby preventing tangles and knots over time, which is particularly beneficial for show horses [Schneider's Ultimate Guide to Horse Brushes]. Deciding Between Hogging and Plaiting Consider Your Horse's Lifestyle Working Horses: If your horse primarily engages in work or spends significant time outdoors, hogging is a sensible option. It makes grooming simpler and minimizes the risk of dirt buildup [Houghton Country]. Competitive Horses: For horses involved in shows or competitions, plaiting is favored due to its aesthetic advantages and the elegant image it projects [Schneider's Ultimate Guide to Horse Brushes]. Consider Your Horse's Comfort Climate: In hotter regions, hogging can keep your horse cooler by reducing insulating hair. Personal Comfort: Horses that struggle with tangled or matted long manes may find hogging to be a more comfortable alternative. Tips for Implementing Each Style Hogging Tips Use Proper Tools: Ensure you have appropriate clippers and tools to avoid discomfort during grooming [Houghton Country]. Consider Seasonal Changes: Adjust the length based on the weathershorter in summer, longer in winter if needed [The Open Sanctuary Project]. Observe Breed Standards: Certain breeds have specific grooming standards, so familiarize yourself with these before opting for hogging. Plaiting Tips Start Early: Begin plaiting when the horse is young to train the mane to lie flat [Schneider's Ultimate Guide to Horse Brushes]. Select Suitable Products: Detangling sprays and conditioners facilitate an easier plaiting process [Schneider's Ultimate Guide to Horse Brushes]. Practice Regularly: Frequent practice enhances the quality of the plaits while increasing the horse's tolerance. Conclusion The decision to choose either hogging or plaiting should be based on your horse's lifestyle, comfort, and individual needs. Both grooming styles provide benefits when chosen sensibly. By familiarizing yourself with these styles and their respective advantages, you can ensure your horse is not only looking its best but also feeling well cared for. Whether opting for the practicality of hogging or the finesse of plaiting, consistent grooming remains essential for your horse's health. Engage in the art of grooming with products like our Jodhpur Collection or Horse Riding Boot Collection to complement your grooming efforts. After all, every detail counts when it comes to equine elegance! ```html```