Table of ContentsToggleFinding Connection with Therapy HorsesSmiling AgainMeet the ExpertsWhat It Takes to Be a Therapy HorseDonation & TrainingLearn MoreWithout therapy horses, there would be no equine-assisted activities for helping humans. Theyve been referred to as angels with four legs and a tail and priced at worth their weight in gold. But where do these equine miracle workers come from, and what makes a great one? Horse Illustrated shines a light on these special animals by visiting with program directors at two PATH International Premier Accredited Equestrian Centers.Finding Connection with Therapy HorsesHorses possess a remarkable ability to connect with humans: to comfort, teach and heal. A wide variety of people are helped through equine-assisted activities at centers across North America. Special needs children and adults, veterans recovering from physical and emotional trauma, and abused women and children are just a few examples of those who benefit from spending time with these exceptional equines.Kate Storjohann is lead instructor at the Marianna Greene Henry Special Equestrian Program (MGHSE) in Talladega, Ala., where she works with deaf, blind and multi-disabled students. She has witnessed many examples of the healing power of horses, but one story stands out. She was teaching a blind, autistic student who in the three years she had been going to MGHSE, had not spoken to anyone there.I was working with her one-on-one about how to groom horses when something wonderful happened, shares Storjohann.As we brushed, I started to guide her hand over different parts of the horse and tell her what she was feeling.After a few minutes, she started reaching out on her own.I could tell she was beginning to take an interest, so I repeated the parts of the horse.Then she said, Mane?I had never heard her speak before.Since that day, I can ask her to find the ear, eye, nose, mane, tail, and many other parts, and she can show me where they are.MGHSE student Erin Paulson aboard Reba with volunteer David Vought walking alongside. Reba is an 18-year-old Tennessee Walking Horse/Belgian Draft mare. According to their website, She is the favorite of many of our students and volunteers due to her impressive size and calm demeanor.Photo by J.D. HaunThat student has progressed to using voice commands to her therapy horse when riding as volunteers lead and walk alongside. Storjohann says that students at MGHSE learn much more than horsemanship: they gain confidence and independence, learn teamwork, refine balance and motor skills, develop character, and discover that all things are possible.Smiling AgainAt Therapeutic Riding Incorporated (TRI) in Ann Arbor, Mich., Program Director Jennifer Beyer has seen her share of miracles worked by their horses. The TRI program offers mounted adaptive horsemanship classes, work-from-the-ground wellness sessions, and para-dressage lessons, to name just a few of their activities.At Therapeutic Riding Incorporated, a program horse is used in equine-assisted therapy with sidewalkers. Photo courtesy Therapeutic Riding Inc.Beyer recalls many examples, but the story of one young man and his bond with TRIs Quarter Horse gelding, B Smiley, illustrates the restorative abilities of an equine companion.Liam had been a student at TRI for several years when ongoing neurological issues caused him to be hospitalized for weeks at a time, diminishing his strength and balance.With every hospital stay, Liam looked forward to time at TRI, recalls Beyer. Coming to the barn to see his horse, B Smiley, became his motivation to get better and stick with physical therapy. Smiley has impeccable ground manners and loves attention. When the doctors gave him the all clear, Liam wasnt strong enough to ride, but he came to every lesson to groom and walk Smiley. Fast forward a year, and Liam is now strong enough to ride and has made great strides with improved balance. He and Smiley are still a team, both in and out of the saddle.Meet the ExpertsSweet Pea, a 27-year-old Icelandic mare, stands for grooming and interaction from the ground. She loves people and has worked with numerous children at summer camps and as a family mount, says TRIs website. Photo courtesy Therapeutic Riding Inc.Jennifer Beyer is the Program Director for Therapeutic Riding Incorporated (TRI) in Ann Arbor, Mich., where she has been on staff since 2010. She is a PATH Intl. Certified Therapeutic Riding Instructor (CTRI); a bronze-level United States Equestrian Federation Para -Dressage Coach, and a Level 3 Certified Horsemanship Association Instructor of Riders with Disabilities (CHA-IRD).Kate Storjohann, MGHSE lead program instructor, and her 9-year-old Quarter Horse gelding, Danny. She has had Danny since he was 9 months old, and he is used for lessons at MGHSE. Photo courtesy MGHSEKate Storjohann has been the Lead Program Instructor at the Marianna Greene Henry Special Equestrian Program in Talladega, Ala., since 2015. She first volunteered there as a high school senior, then was hired as an assistant instructor. She is a PATH Intl. CTRI, a PATH Intl. Equine Specialist in Mental Health and Learning, and a CHA-IRD.What It Takes to Be a Therapy HorseBeyer and Storjohann explain that their program horses come from various walks of life, but most often they hail from show, lesson barn and trail riding backgrounds. Both emphasize that to be considered, a horse needs to be sound and in current work because the job is both mentally and physically challenging. These equines work with a variety of students on any given day, and their gaits need to be even, their minds calm and willing, and their bodies able to hold up to the work.Sweet Pea, a 27-year-old Icelandic mare, stands for grooming and interaction from the ground. She loves people and has worked with numerous children at summer camps and as a family mount, says TRIs website. Photo courtesy Therapeutic Riding Inc.Beyer says that there is a misconception that adaptive riding horses simply give glorified pony rides.This is not a cushy retirement opportunity, but a rewarding assignment for sturdy, patient and well-loved horses, she says. Above all else, we seek horses that have friendly, people-pleasing personalities.A great therapy horse is sound at the walk, trot and canter, and the quality of the horses movement is what benefits the participants the most, according to Storjohann.We utilize a wide range of input [from the] movement from our horses, she says. With some of our students, it is preferred that the horse have a low amount of movement as they learn to ride and acquire a proper seat. In other cases, more exaggerated movement is needed to stimulate a rider and meet their sensory needs.Other qualities that Beyer and Storjohann look for in ideal horses for their therapy programs: Trained, adult horses (ages 5-18 for TRI and 8-20 for MGHSE) Height range between 14-16 hands, with some exceptions Healthy, sound, a negative Coggins test, and up to date on vaccinations, deworming, dental and farrier care Rhythmic gaits; able to smoothly transition from one gait to another Comfortable being handled and ridden by a wide variety of people Good ground manners; leads, ties and stands well Stands quietly for mounting and dismounting Respects human leaders personal space, and tolerant of multiple sidewalkers Accepting of beginner riders; tolerant and even-tempered so a student riding may be safely led around an arena Obedient to both voice and leg aids Accepting of assistive devices and equipment (wheelchairs, walkers, et cetera) Able to calmly deal with new sights, sudden sounds, and unexpected/uneven movement by the rider Must display therapy heart and show enjoyment in their work.Other selection criteria may vary from program to program. For example, TRI uses some gaited horses with good results, whereas MGHSE does not accept gaited horses.They both advise that horses with dangerous habits (i.e. bucking, kicking, biting, rearing, bolting, spooking) or horses that stumble regularly are not well-suited to this job.Para dressage rider and TRI Social Media and Content Creator Megan Braun riding Serena, a 15-year-old Morgan mare. Serena will take care of the most fragile of our riders and is also a proven Para Dressage horse, according to TRIs website. Photo courtesy Therapeutic Riding Inc.Its important to note that the qualities that make a great therapeutic riding horse may differ from a winning para-equestrian competition horse. To win nationally and internationally in para-dressage, for example, may require bigger, flashier gaits and more contact. Donation & TrainingBoth MGHSE and TRI accept donated horses, and also purchase a few horses, but ask for a trial period in each case. Visit their websites for more information.Donating a horse to a therapeutic or adaptive riding program will change the lives of people with disabilities, says Beyer.Program horses go through training and desensitization exercises once they arrive, as well as refresher courses as needed. They are regularly conditioned and also get vacation time to decompress.English actress Pam Brown said, Horses lend us the wings we lack. Talking about her students, Storjohann puts this in perspective.They are no longer restricted by their disabilities, she says. There is a freedom that can only be experienced on the back of a horse. Our students understand it best.Learn More The Professional Association of Therapeutic Horsemanship International (PATH Intl.), formerly known as North American Riding for the Handicapped Association (NARHA), is an organization for individuals in the field of equine-assisted activities. They offer personnel training and certification and facility accreditation. Learn more at PATHintl.org. The American Hippotherapy Association, Inc. (AHA, Inc.) offers education for licensed therapists, an informational video, and resources for families looking for hippotherapy. Learn more at AmericanHippotherapyAssociation.org. The Marianna Greene Henry Special Equestrian Program (MGHSE) is a PATH Intl. Premier Center. Their Talladega, Ala., facility provides equine-assisted therapy and learning programs for the Alabama Institute for the Deaf and Blind (AIDB). They serve between 300-400 deaf, blind, and multi-disabled children per year. Learn more at AIDB.org/mgh. The Certified Horsemanship Association (CHA) certifies equine professionals, accredits equine facilities, and provides resources to equine professionals. They offer an Instructor of Riders with Disabilities Certification (IRD). Learn more at CHA.horse/cha-certifications. The United States Para-Equestrian Association (USPEA) runs para-equestrian sports in the USA and provides information for riders who wish to make the jump from therapeutic riding to competition. Learn more at USPEA.org. Therapeutic Riding Incorporated (TRI) is a PATH Intl. Premier Accredited Center and a United States Equestrian Federation Para-Dressage Center of Excellence. They offer an adaptive horsemanship curriculum using mounted and unmounted activities with the potential for therapeutic benefits and serve around 250 people per year in the Ann Arbor/Detroit, Mich., area. Learn more at TherapeuticRidingInc.org.This article about therapy horses appeared in the November/December 2023 issue of Horse Illustratedmagazine.Click here to subscribe!The post Therapy Horses: Equine Miracle Workers appeared first on Horse Illustrated Magazine.

Section Key Points What Is Albumin and Why Does It Matter in Horses? Albumin is a crucial plasma protein synthesized by the liver; maintains fluid balance, transports substances, supports immune responses. Normal albumin levels: 2.5 - 3.5 g/dL. Common Causes of Low Albumin in Horses Causes include protein-losing enteropathy, protein-losing nephropathy, liver disease, malnutrition, hemorrhage, or severe skin disease. Recognizing the Signs: What To Watch For Signs include swelling, edema, weight loss, lethargy, gastrointestinal symptoms, polydipsia, polyuria, jaundice. Diagnostic Approach: Localize and Identify Bloodwork, urinalysis, liver function tests, and additional diagnostics to identify source: kidneys, intestines, or liver. Treatment Strategies and Challenges Supportive care with plasma/colloids, antiparasitic therapy, anti-inflammatory medication, nutritional support, specific liver/kidney treatments. Challenges include slow response time, chronic disease management. Insights from Veterinary Experience Do not assume cause based on symptoms alone. Early diagnosis and methodical approach improve prognosis. Conclusion: Navigating Complexity with Knowledge Thorough understanding, careful observation, structured evaluation necessary for equine low albumin management. Navigating the Complexities of Equine Low Albumin: Challenges, Experiences, and Insights Low albumin (hypoalbuminemia) in horses is a complex condition that can mystify horse owners and veterinarians alike. Understanding this condition is vital because albumin plays essential roles in maintaining fluid balance, transporting substances, and supporting overall health in equines. This blog unpacks the challenges of diagnosing and managing low albumin in horses, shares insights into its causes and effects, and provides practical guidance grounded in the latest veterinary knowledge. What Is Albumin and Why Does It Matter in Horses? Albumin is a crucial plasma protein synthesized primarily by the liver. It serves as the main contributor to oncotic pressure, which helps keep fluid within blood vessels, preventing leakage into tissues that causes swelling (edema). Albumin also transports hormones, drugs, and toxins and acts as a scavenger for free radicals, aiding in wound healing and immune responses. In horses, normal albumin levels typically range between 2.5 and 3.5 g/dL, though values can vary slightly by laboratory standards. When albumin levels fall (hypoalbuminemia), the effects can be profound, leading to edema, impaired healing, and general malaise[1][2]. Common Causes of Low Albumin in Horses Hypoalbuminemia results either from decreased production, increased loss, or a combination of both. The main causes include: Protein-losing enteropathy (PLE): Intestinal diseases such as inflammatory bowel disease, parasitism, or neoplasia cause albumin leakage through damaged gut walls[3]. PLE is the most frequent reason for hypoalbuminemia in horses. Protein-losing nephropathy (PLN): This kidney disorder leads to loss of albumin through urine. It causes low albumin often accompanied by hypercholesterolemia and sometimes edema (nephrotic syndrome)[3]. Liver disease: Since albumin production occurs in the liver, chronic liver disease with significant loss of functional mass (>80%) results in decreased albumin synthesis. Liver disease can be indicated by elevated bile acids and bilirubin levels[4]. Decreased protein intake or malnutrition: Though less common in horses, insufficient dietary protein or long-term anorexia can eventually reduce albumin production[3]. Hemorrhage or severe skin disease: Both can cause protein loss, including albumin, through blood loss or exudate[3]. Recognizing the Signs: What To Watch For Hypoalbuminemia often develops gradually, and early symptoms can be subtle or nonspecific. Clinical signs include: Swelling and edema: Fluid leaking into tissues manifests as limb swelling or a distended belly from ascites when albumin falls below ~2 g/dL[1]. Weight loss and lethargy: Loss of albumin impairs nutrient transport and fluid balance, contributing to poor body condition and fatigue[4]. Gastrointestinal signs: Diarrhea, inappetence, and colic may accompany underlying intestinal causes[5]. Other general signs: Polydipsia (excessive drinking), polyuria (increased urination), and sometimes jaundice if liver disease is involved[5]. Because these signs overlap with many other equine diseases, diagnosis requires careful veterinary evaluation. Diagnostic Approach: Localize and Identify Determining the cause of low albumin involves a stepwise approach focusing on localizing the source of albumin loss into three major categories: kidneys, intestines, or liver[5]. Initial bloodwork: Complete blood count (CBC) and biochemistry panel reveal hypoalbuminemia severity and possible concurrent abnormalities such as anemia or elevated liver enzymes. Urinalysis and protein quantification: Protein presence in urine, measured as a urine protein:creatinine ratio (UPC), identifies kidney-related losses. A UPC above 1.5 suggests protein-losing nephropathy[5]. Liver function tests: Measuring bile acids and bilirubin helps identify hepatic causes. Bile acids >50 mol/L strongly indicate liver involvement[4]. Additional diagnostics: Fecal analysis for parasites, imaging and biopsy when neoplasia or severe organ disease is suspected. This targeted approach minimizes unnecessary tests and helps tailor treatment. Treatment Strategies and Challenges Managing equine hypoalbuminemia involves addressing both the symptoms and underlying causes: Supportive care: Restoring fluid balance and oncotic pressure is essential. Intravenous plasma or colloids may be used in severe cases to manage edema and ascites[1]. Treat underlying disease: Antiparasitic therapy for parasitic enteropathy. Anti-inflammatory or immunosuppressive drugs for inflammatory bowel disease. Nutritional support to ensure adequate protein intake. Specific treatments for liver or kidney disease as indicated. Challenges include slow response time due to the long half-life of albumin (~20 days in horses), difficulties in controlling chronic inflammatory or neoplastic diseases, and balancing medications to avoid further damage (e.g., NSAID toxicity worsening gut disease)[4]. Insights from Veterinary Experience Veterinarians emphasize the importance of not assuming the cause of hypoalbuminemia based on clinical signs alone, as similar symptoms appear regardless of whether kidneys, intestines, or liver are involved[5]. Being methodical in diagnosis prevents mismanagement. Owners are encouraged to monitor their horses closely for subtle signs like reduced appetite, weight loss, or swelling and seek timely veterinary advice. Early and accurate diagnosis improves prognosis significantly. Conclusion: Navigating Complexity with Knowledge Equine low albumin is a multifaceted condition requiring a thorough understanding of equine physiology, careful clinical observation, and structured diagnostic evaluation. By focusing on the localization of albumin loss and treating the underlying cause, horse owners and veterinarians can improve outcomes. For more detailed veterinary guidance, diagnostic recommendations, and case examples, resources from Field Equine Vets and veterinary pathology references are invaluable[1][3][5]. Keeping abreast of advances in equine medicine enhances care and supports horse health in the face of such challenging disorders. ```html```

Ocala, FL The Equestrian Manor, a premier new meeting and dining venue previously referred to as the Event Center at WEC, will open this fall at World Equestrian Center Ocala (WEC). Featuring traditional event space and four additional restaurants, including two rooftop concepts, The Equestrian Manor will position WEC as a top destination for meetings, conferences, weddings and events in the heart of[...]Read MoreThe post The Equestrian Manor at WEC Ocala Introduces Stunning New Venues and Restaurants This Fall appeared first on World Equestrian Center.

One horse at a boarding facility in Montgomery County, Maryland, recently tested positive for strangles. Seventy-three horses are exposed and will be tested this week. The affected horses are under quarantine.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.

If you notice milk coming from your foals nose, stop him from nursing and contact your veterinarian. | iStockDysphagia, or difficulty swallowing, can have serious consequences for foals. At the 2025 Cavalcade Education Equine Reproduction Seminar, held on Jan. 8, in Red Hook, New York, Lauren Holley, BVSc (Hons), Dipl. ACVIM, of Rhinebeck Equine, also in New York, explained the importance of diagnosing dysphagia in foals early and properly managing them to prevent respiratory dysfunction and aspiration pneumonia.Critical First Steps: Assessing the Newborn FoalHolley highlighted the importance of a neonatal physical exam at birth to catch dysphagia and other potential abnormalities early. With this hands-on physical exam, the veterinarian should evaluate:Vital signs;Heart sounds;Limb deformities;The umbilicus; andThe respiratory system.Signs of Respiratory Dysfunction in FoalsAside from milk coming out of the nostrilsconsidered a definite sign of diseaseother clinical signs of dysphagia in the foal include:Nasal discharge;Abnormal respiratory rate and effort; andRespiratory noises, such as stridor (abnormal sounds heard when inhaling).The most concerning clinical sign remains milk coming out of the nostrils, which requires immediate veterinary attention, Holley said. If this is observed, the foal should be muzzled and separated from the mare while waiting for the vet, as continued nursing increases the risk of aspiration pneumonia from milk pooling in the lungs.Causes of Dysphagia in FoalsDysphagia usually stems from two primary issues: one functional, the other structural.Functional dysphagia occurs relatively frequently and often appears in cases involving prematurity, neonatal encephalopathy (also called dummy foal syndrome), or systemic illness. Structural issues, though less frequent, include cleft palates, cysts, and esophageal dysfunction.Diagnosing Dysphagia in FoalsIf practitioners suspect dysphagia in foals, they might perform blood tests to assess systemic inflammation and organ function and pursue diagnostic imaging in the form of ultrasonography, radiography, or endoscopy. Endoscopy is considered the most important diagnostic tool as it allows us to directly visualize the upper airway and trachea for evidence of aspiration or structural abnormalities, said Holley. Endoscopic videos can reveal weak or collapsed pharyngeal muscles, inflammation, and the presence of milk in the trachea.Treating DysphagiaHolley said the goals when treating dysphagia in newborn foals include three main objectives: Stop aspiration, reduce inflammation, and address secondary bacterial pneumonia. Veterinarians might treat foals that have dysphagia by placing a nasogastric feeding tube and administering anti-inflammatory medications and broad-spectrum antibiotics. In select cases veterinarians recommend antioxidantsnotably vitamin E and seleniumto address nutritional deficiencies that negatively affect foals neuromuscular function.Foals with severe structural abnormalities or neurologic issues might need longer-term management, such as bucket feeding rather than nursing until weaning. Veterinarians often perform repeat endoscopic evaluations on these foals to monitor their progress and guide treatment.Take-Home MessageDysphagia in newborn foals can be serious, but it often improves with early diagnosis and treatment. Most foals recover well, especially when the cause is functionalthose cases usually resolve within five days. Because complications such as aspiration pneumonia can develop quickly, horse owners and veterinarians must act promptly, identifying the cause of dysphagia and implementing appropriate supportive care to give these foals the best chance at a full recovery.

New research has increased knowledge about how best to manage equines with Cushings syndrome for which the correct veterinarty term is Pituitary Pars Intermedia Dysfunction (PPID) one of the most common issues affecting senior horse health.The study shows that pergolide mesylate, which is the most common drug used to treat Cushings, may reduce the amount of insulin produced in response to eating in equines that have PPID and insulin dysregulation. It also suggests thata low sugar and starch diet remains important in order to keep insulin levels as low as possible.The paper was published by the University of Melbourne in partnership with Spillers, and has been selected as one of the most clinically relevant pieces of research published in the Equine Veterinary Journals early view section this month.About the studyAs part of the study, 16 senior horses eight with Cushings and insulin dysregulation and eight with insulin dysregulation (ID) only took part in a standard meal test. This involved measuring the concentration of insulin in their blood before and after eating a high starch meal. By the end of the study, all horses had completed the standard meal test twice, once after four weeks of pergolide treatment and once without pergolide treatment.The results showed the following:That pergolide treatment had reduced blood insulin levels after eating in horses with Cushings and ID to the same level seen in those horses with just ID.That pergolide treatment had no effect on blood insulin levels in horses with insulin dysregulation only.Even when treated with pergolide, the horses produced higher levels of insulin in response to eating a starch- and sugar-rich meal than seen in healthy horses.Diet remains crucialThe results suggest that pergolide may reduce the amount of insulin produced in response to eating in horses and ponies that have PPID together with ID but not back to normal, saidSarah Nelson, product manager at Mars Horsecare, home of Spillers.However, it is also important to note that sugar and starch can still raise insulin to abnormally high levels even when the horses and ponies are on pergolide, meaning that a low sugar and starch diet remains crucial for horses with PPID and/or ID. Finally, given that horses with ID only did not respond to pergolide, we must ensure thatPPID and ID are tested for separately managing one will not necessarily manage the other.What is Cushings?Cushings is a common condition in older horses and ponies and affected equines are at increased risk of suffering from laminitis, especially if they also have insulin dysregulation.In fact, laminitis associated with a high concentration of insulin the blood (hyperinsulinemia), is now thought to be the most common form of laminitis in the UK.Pergolidehas been shown to be effective in managing some of the main associated clinical signs of Cushings. As laminitis is such a painful and potentially devastating condition, the researchers were keen to find out whether pergolide might help to reduce ID.Research paperThe full paper GalinelliNC,BamfordNJ,ErdodyML,MackenzieSA,WarnkenT,HarrisPA, et al.Effect of pergolide treatment on insulin dysregulation in horses and ponies with pituitary pars intermedia dysfunction.Equine Vet J.2025 can be viewed here.Related contentEverything you need to know about Cushings disease in horsesLaminitis in horses: all about this common and extremely painful hoof diseaseHow to get a horse to eat their pergolide tabletVet nurse explains what insulin resistance is in horses and poniesThe post Latest research sheds new light on treatment for Cushings appeared first on Your Horse.

Ocala, FL World Equestrian Center Ocala set the scene for day two of the 2025 Orange Blossom Classic, featuring top competition across several highlighted classes. The spotlight was on the $4,000 NSBA 3-Year-Old Open & Limited Hunter Under Saddle, the $4,000 NSBA Maturity Non-Pro Open & Limited Non-Pro Western Pleasure, as well as Senior Ranch Riding & NSBA. Early Thursday morning at WEC[...]Read MoreThe post Orange Blossom Classic; Thursday, April 17 Featured Class Highlights appeared first on World Equestrian Center.

The RAC Saddle Clubin Dorset hosted six women for a two-day equestrian camp as part of the Forces Wives Challenge, an initiative that unites and empowers women who are married to or partnered with individuals in the military.The camp participants, aged between 29 and 51, came from various locations across the UK, including Dorset, Wiltshire, and the East Midlands. Five are married to serving army personnel, and one is married to a member of the Navy.The camp includes dressage, jumping, hacking, and cross-country riding on horses produced by the RAC Saddle Club.Operations manager Steph Quintrell pointed out that the activities are more than just fun they are designed to stretch participants both mentally and physically.We dont just offer spa days, we offer real challenges that help women build confidence, connect, and support each other, she said.This camp is not just about horseback riding its about building connections, pushing personal boundaries, and offering a supportive community where women can grow through shared adventure.Camp participant Anja added: Our husbands get these types of adventures all the time, but its brilliant to have our own.Life as a military partnerThe Forces Wives Challenge was formed in 2019 to give military spouses the opportunity to take part in exciting challenges and connect with others who understand what life is like as a military partner. Moving every two to four years is a frequent reality for many, with spouses regularly deployed for months at a time. I dont live on a base, so I dont often meet other military wives who understand what its like. But coming here, Ive found a sense of community, said Harad, one of the camps participants. Its so comforting to meet women whom Ive never met before but who truly understand military life.Proud to show whats possibleOperations manager Steph Quintrell has been in a wheelchair since 2019 due to a neurological condition but still enjoys team chasing.Im proud to show whats possible, no matter the obstacles, she said. Last year, we had women with disabilities take part in activities like sailing, open-water swimming, and even the Three Peaks Challenge. Its amazing to see people reach out and ask what they can do and its even more amazing to watch them achieve things they never thought possible.Find out more about Forces Wives Challenge hereFurther readingMaster saddler wins national Shire horse title with harness she handcrafted herselfHow to tell if a horse is happyYour Horse Live tickets on sale nowHow to tell if a horse is lameThe post Empowering equestrian camp for Armed Forces Wives is hailed a big success appeared first on Your Horse.

Pros of Chest Mounting Cons of Chest Mounting Stable and Smooth Footage Potential Distraction Safety and Convenience Vibration and Movement Issues Versatility Risk During Falls Better Camera Angles for Vlogging Weather Exposure Is Chest Mounting Your Phone While Riding Safe? Exploring the Pros and Cons For any cycling enthusiasts, motorcyclists, or adventurers keen on capturing their rides on video or using GPS on-the-go, the idea of chest mounting a smartphone has crossed your mind. But is this method really safe? In this article, we look into the advantages and disadvantages of chest mounting your phone, helping you make an informed decision. Introduction With the rise of mobile technology and the desire to capture life's moments as they happen, more and more riders are opting to mount their devices while riding. Safety and practicality, however, remain big questions. This blog analyses the pros and cons of chest mounting, ensuring you stay informed on this practice. What Is Chest Mounting? Chest mounting involves fixing your smartphone to a mount or harness that you wear on your chest. This method allows for a hands-free experience that lets you record videos, use maps, or perform any smartphone function seamlessly while biking or riding. The Pros of Chest Mounting Your Phone 1. Stable and Smooth Footage One of the biggest advantages is the stability of video footage. Chest mounts naturally absorb the vibrations and impacts that the bike or motorcycle encounters, resulting in steadier recordings ideal for activities like mountain biking [source]. 2. Safety and Convenience A chest mount keeps your hands free to navigate and control the bike better compared to handlebar mounts, which can impede steering. By keeping the phone easily accessible yet out of the way, riders benefit from both safety and convenience [source]. 3. Versatility Many chest mounts are compatible with a range of devices and include adjustable straps to fit various body sizes. They often come with additional safety mechanisms such as safety straps or suction cups [source]. 4. Better Camera Angles for Vlogging For vlogging enthusiasts, chest mounts provide a unique first-person perspective that captures both the view ahead and part of the rider, adding a more engaging touch to your rides [source]. The Cons of Chest Mounting Your Phone 1. Potential Distraction Even though the phone is mounted for easier access, it can serve as a distraction while riding if constantly interacted with. Ensuring minimal engagement with the device while riding is crucial to safety [source]. 2. Vibration and Movement Issues While chest mounts absorb some movement shock, not all road scenarios are the same. Shaky and uneven surfaces can still impact video quality. Poorly installed mounts can also be uncomfortable or unstable [source]. 3. Risk During Falls The biggest risk arises during falls. A chest-mounted phone is exposed and can be impact damaged. Some would prefer alternative mounting options to avoid the risk during an accident [source]. 4. Weather Exposure Devices mounted on your chest face direct exposure to the elements: wind, rain, and dust. Therefore, it's advisable to use a protective or waterproof case to safeguard the phone from weather spells [source]. Facts and Figures A Mapillary forum discussion revealed that chest mounts align better with a rider's line of sight, offering improved photo and video angles compared to handlebar mounts [source]. Additionally, Action Mount's chest harness for smartphones supports safety concerns with an additional strap to secure the device [source]. These aspects underscore the growing popularity of chest mounts among riders. Conclusion: Is Chest Mounting Safe? Using a chest mount can indeed be safe and effective when done right. When using trusted systems, ensuring secure installations, and practicing responsible use, riders can capture high-quality experiences without compromising safety. Before you start chest mounting your phone, assess your priorities and ride always with a focus on safety. Further Resources Action Mount Chest Harness Review: Explore safety considerations and setup tips. Practical Guide to Neewer Chest Mount: Affordable phone mounting solutions. Mapillary Discussion on Chest-Mounted Cameras: User experiences on sightline advantages. Keep riding safely and capturing every breathtaking moment responsibly with the right equipment.```html```

MARS Badminton Horse Trials relaunches its popular mobile appMARS Badminton Horse Trials has relaunched its popular mobile app for iOS and Android phones. The new and improved app brings all of the previous features back, like live scores and access to a wealth of information about the competition, and what to see, and where to shop at the event in May (7th 11th May 2025).Two new features for Badminton 2.0 allow users to follow their favourite riders and receive timely reminders about their progress through the competition, like a 30-minute warning that Yasmin Ingham is about to start her dressage test.Plus, users can also have a go at being an armchair judge for dressage! The Score My Test feature allows users to score a riders dressage test whilst watching live from the arena, or the comfort of their armchair whilst watching Badminton TV. On Cross Country Day users will be able to follow riders progress around the cross country live with the Live XC Fence Analysis Feature.Jane Tuckwell, Event Director said, The previous app was so popular we wanted to resurrect it, and bring more engagement features into the app. Its already proving popular, with over a thousand downloads in the first 30 minutes of being posted on our website. I really think users will love the new features.More Information:APP FEATURES