Ammonia in stalls can negatively impact a horses respiratory health. | iStockQ: With summer approaching, I want to be sure Im prepared to minimize unpleasant odors on my farm that are always worse during the warmer months. What can I do to eliminate those odors or prevent them altogether?A: During the warm season horse properties can develop odorsbetween muddy turnouts, stockpiled manure, and urine buildup in confinement areas. These spots attract pests such as flies and rodents and can raise concerns among neighbors. Inhaling ammonia in stalls, barns, or confined spaces can also harm a horses respiratory tract. Here are five tips to help you reduce odors on your horse property.1.Start With Healthy SoilOdor control starts with a step many people overlook: Start with healthy soils and slightly sloped ground. If you confine horses in a low, wet area you will end up with mud and odor problems. Make sure you have a good, even slope (about 1-2%) away from stalls or shelters. Be sure to grade the ground, making it even before putting gravel or another type of footing in these areas. Otherwise, any depressions in the underlying soil allow water (and urine) to pool under the gravel, potentially causing odors.2. Develop a Manure Management ProgramA solid manure management program goes a long way in solving odor issues. Begin by picking up manure every one to three days in confinement and high-traffic areas. Establish your manure pile far away from streams, ditches, rivers, or other bodies of water to prevent runoff contamination, and cover it with a tarp (to keep it from getting soaked by rain).Lets say youve picked up manure and you still have odors. The simplest and cheapest solution might be to drag or harrow the paddock. This helps get beneficial aerobic microbes back in your soil that break down tiny, odor-causing organics. It also helps the ground dry faster.3. Minimize MoistureKeep your farm as dry as possible by removing opportunities for standing water to form. Keeping shelters, stalls, and barns dry, or at least well-drained, goes a long way in reducing odors. Moisture often triggers odor problems; wet areas release more odor-causing compounds than dry ones. Consider doors, screens, or roof overhangs for shielding barn openings from rain. Invest in good working gutters and downspouts, which divert rainwater away from buildings and confinement areas. Ventilation also helps dry the barn area by releasing and not trapping moisture and allowing odors to dissipate. Stall windows, open doorways, cupolas and vents in roofs, ceiling fans, etc., can all improve ventilation in your barn.If a horse perpetually urinates in one spot in a confinement area, you might have to occasionally dig out and refresh footing in that spot to help it dry thoroughly.4.Use Microbial Sprays to Minimize OdorsA variety of microbial spray products are available, which you can use on urine spots and across confinement areas to neutralize odors. These products contain different types of beneficial bacteria, enzymes, and/or fungi. They come in highly concentrated solutions that you dilute and spray on paddock areas with a garden sprayer. The beneficial microbes break down ammonia and organic material that cause odors and attract flies. Use these animal-safe solutions as often as needed to control odors. You can commonly find these beneficial microbial sprays at organic garden supply companies or feed stores.5.Use Zeolite Products in StallsZeolite products remove odors effectively when you sprinkle them in stalls or other areas of your barn. These naturally occurring minerals have a highly porous structure, which binds with ammonia molecules in urine, eliminating odors. Youll find zeolite, which looks like finely ground kitty litter, in several stall deodorizer products.Take-Home MessageStarting with healthy soil, developing a manure management program, minimizing moisture, and using microbial sprays and zeolite products can all help reduce the odors on your horse farm. In turn, this will minimize pests and support your horses comfort and well-being.

Cowdray Park Polo Club has revealed that it will partner with British luxury car companyBentley Motors for theBritish Open Polo Championship for the Cowdray Gold Cup 2025.The British Open Polo Championship for the Cowdray Gold Cup welcomes the sports best players to Cowdray in West Sussex, the home of British polo, each summer for Europes premier 22-goal polo tournament.The world-famous tournament sees teams from around the world battle it out over a three-week period at Viscount Cowdrays 16,000 acre estate, which is located in the South Downs National Park, for the chance to lift the historic Cowdray Gold Cup.We are delighted to join forces with Bentley, a brand that shares our dedication to tradition and excellence,saidMartine Hartridge, managing director of Cowdray Park Polo Club.This partnership is a natural fit, and we look forward to an extraordinary collaboration at the 2025 Cowdray Gold Cup.One of the bestThe British Open Polo Championship for The Cowdray Gold Cup 2025 is one of the three most prestigious polo tournaments in the world, together with the US Open and the Argentine Open.Partnering with Cowdray Park Polo Club for the 2025 Cowdray Gold Cup is a perfect match for Bentley, said Nicola Brown, EMEA head of marketing at Bentley Motors.This tournament reflects the same commitment to excellence, innovation, and heritage that drives our brand forward.Together, we look forward to creating an unforgettable experience that celebrates both sporting and automotive craftsmanship at the highest level.This years British Open will take place from Saturday 24 June Sunday 20 July.Image Mark Beaumont/Cowdray Polo Club.Related contentPark where Seabiscuit won his last race is confirmed as equestrian venue for 2028 OlympicsOlympic stars head strong Badminton CCI5* entry listNew streaming provider for Badminton TV this yearBurghley reveals 2025 charityThe post Bentley Motors announced as official partner of the British Open Polo Championships appeared first on Your Horse.

Topics Details Definition Snatching the reins is when a horse abruptly pulls or yanks the reins out of a riders hands, often leading to loss of control. Causes Discomfort or pain related to the bit, mouth, or back. Behavioral responses to excitement, nervousness, or frustration, especially in herd-bound horses. Lack of training or reinforcement of proper contact, leading to evasion of work or boundary testing. Solutions Rule out physical causes: Examine tack for fit issues such as a poorly fitted bit, dental conditions, and saddle fitting. Consistent training to teach proper rein contact: Reinforce good behavior and maintain steady rein contact. Address behavioral triggers: Use desensitization, positive reinforcement, and maintain balance and stability during rides. Stay safe and patient: Maintain a secure seat, and use gentle yet assertive rein and leg aids during incidents. Conclusion Resolving rein snatching requires a combined approach involving vet checks, tack evaluations, and training to ensure a enjoyable riding experience. Understanding the Causes and Solutions for a Horse's Habit of Snatching Reins When HackingFor many horse riders, the exhilarating experience of hacking through countryside trails can be unexpectedly interrupted by the distressing habit of a horse snatching the reins. While this behavior can frustrate riders and pose safety risks, addressing its root causes is crucial for ensuring a joyous riding experience. In this article, we'll dissect why horses snatch the reins and uncover effective strategies to mitigate this challenging behavior.What Does "Snatching the Reins" Mean?Snatching the reins is a behavior where a horse abruptly pulls or yanks the reins out of a riders hands, often forcefully. This jerking action can cause the rider to lose control, particularly when riding outside the comfort of an arena.Common Causes of Snatching ReinsDiscomfort or Pain Several horses resort to snatching reins if they experience discomfort or pain, often related to the bit, mouth, or back. A poorly fitted bit may press sharply against the horse's mouth, prompting evasive actions. Saddle fitting issues or back soreness can trigger the same reaction, as discomfort makes maintaining contact burdensome.Behavioral Responses to Excitement or Anxiety Riders often observe rein snatching by horses undergoing excitement, nervousness, or frustration, usually triggered by unfamiliar stimuli or sudden separation from herd mates. This behavior is especially common in herd-bound horses who feel an urgency to return to their group when separated.Lack of Training or Reinforcement of Proper Contact Without proper training, horses may develop the habit of snatching reins to avoid work or test boundaries. Consistency in training and cues is key to teaching a horse acceptable behavior and responses.Solutions to Address the ProblemRule Out Physical Causes FirstAddressing rein snatching begins with ruling out any physical causes. A thorough examination of the horses tack, including bit fit, dental condition, and saddle fitting, is an essential first step. For instance, replacing a harsh bit with a more forgiving eggbutt snaffle could resolve bit-related discomfort.Consistent Training to Teach Proper Rein ContactInstill proper rein etiquette in your horse by firmly reinforcing that pulling or snatching is unacceptable. As a rider, maintain consistent rein contact and encourage forward movement with your legs when necessary. Techniques such as lateral and vertical flexion exercises can greatly develop the horses comfort with its bit.Address Behavioral TriggersFor horses that experience anxiety or herd-bound tendencies, a gradual desensitization process paired with positive reinforcement can ease these behaviors. Keep the horse occupied with different activities during rides to reduce reactive habits. On challenging terrains, ensure the horse maintains balance and stability through consistent rhythm.Stay Safe and Patient as a RiderRide confidently with a secure seat and consistent rein handling, avoiding sudden tension that might provoke further pulling. If a horse begins to snatch, respond with gentle but assertive rein and leg aids. Stay calm and reward the horse upon appropriate responses, reinforcing positive behavior.ConclusionRein snatching often hints at underlying discomfort, evasion, or confusion, and tackling it involves a combined approach involving thorough veterinary checks, tack fitting evaluations, and detailed training. By ensuring comfort and instilling a clear understanding of proper rein aids, equestrians can foster safer hacking experiences.For deeper insights into addressing rein snatching, consider exploring resources such as J.S. Horsemanship for comprehensive training techniques. Expert advice available on platforms like Horse and Rider can also provide valuable guidance on managing bitting and behavioral challenges.A comprehensive approach not only resolves rein snatching challenges but strengthens the bond between rider and horse, ensuring every adventure is memorable and safe.Explore MoreEnhance your equestrian toolkit with jodhpurs, boots, gloves, and other accessories available at Just Horse Riders. Secure the essentials for a comfortable and stylish ride.

On April 16, one horse at a boarding facility in Montgomery County, Maryland, tested positive for strangles. Seventy-three exposed horses were also tested, and three of those horses have since tested positive. The four positive horses are quarantined and will be tested again after 21 days. Staff is monitoring exposed horses daily for new symptoms, and the farm is complying with state quarantine 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.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.

A newborn Standardbred foal in MRC dArthabaska, Quebec, recently tested positive for clostridial enteritis after developing hemorrhagic diarrhea. No quarantine has been implemented.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 Clostridial EnteritisClostridial enteritis is caused by the bacteriaClostridium spp.Clostridial bacteria are present in the environment and in feces. In adult horses, clostridial diarrhea has been associated with the administration of antibiotics, feed changes, and transportation, but it can occur without any identifiable risk factors.The disease is spread by fecal contamination from an infected horse.Clinical signs of clostridial enteritis include:Diarrhea, which is often hemorrhagic or dark and foul-smellingColicFeverReduced appetite or inappetenceSeptic shockSudden deathDiagnostic techniques includePCR or ELISA to identify the Clostridium toxin in the horses feces. Treatment involves supportive care.

On April 17, a 3-year-old Quarter Horse colt at a training facility in Washington County, Virginia, tested positive for respiratory equine herpesvirus (EHV). The horse developed clinical signs on April 15, including fever and inappetence. He is now recovering.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.

Acupuncture is becoming more widely recognized as a valid treatment in horses because research exists that supports its use. | Alexandra Beckstett/The HorseProfessional human athletes experience strain from frequent, rigorous training and performance. They use various complementary therapies to accelerate their bodies natural healing process and ease the discomfort they experience so it doesnt interrupt their performance. Equine athletes might also benefit from a variety of integrative therapies to help them feel and perform their best.A significant advantage to using complementary therapies is that they are drug-free and most are allowed during competitions. Electroacupuncture, shock wave therapy, Class IV laser therapy, and cryotherapy are an exception because they are not permitted during FEI-sanctioned events. (Always check the rules governing your competition).While many complementary therapies can be useful and incorporated into a horses wellness program, Tracy Turner, DVM, MS, Dipl. ACVS, ACVSMR, founder of Turner Equine Sports Medicine and Surgery, in Stillwater, Minnesota, says he considers the cost/benefit ratio when deciding which to recommend to a client.What does it cost to use it? he asks. How much benefit will the horse get? That changes based on the scenario and part of the decisions made by the horses health-care team, including the veterinarian, horse owner, and trainer.He adds that knowing the goal for using complementary therapies is also critical. If youre trying to help the horse achieve relaxation (which has its benefits), thats one thing, but if it is to heal an injury, these therapies on their own will not achieve the desired outcome.Its important to have your veterinarian do a whole-horse evaluation, he says. I firmly believe theres no such thing as a single injury. Diagnosing the underlying issues is essential to knowing how the horse might be compensating in other areas (and) to decide what the horse needs, and fitness comes into the equation, too.Picking a modality for your horse and your discipline can feel as overwhelming as restaurant menus with too many choices. Heres a selection of popular treatments for keeping performance horses feeling their best. Use this article to start a conversation with your veterinarian about options that make the most sense for your horse.AcupunctureAcupuncture is a useful, time-tested modality that has a lot of science and thousands of years of use, says Andris J. Kaneps, DVM, PhD, Dipl. ACVS, ACVSMR. He owns Kaneps Equine Sports Medicine and Surgery LLC, in Beverly, Massachusetts. More of that science appears in the human literature than in equine studies, however. Its gradually becoming more widely recognized as a valid treatment in horses, he adds. (Read about acupuncture and a review of existing research at TheHorse.com/181626.)It has very valid support scientifically and anecdotally, he says. A key difference between acupuncture and what we call Western veterinary medicine is that the approach is completely different.For example, as a Western-trained veterinarian, he palpates for swelling or increased joint fluid, looks for pain with hoof testers, and performs a lameness evaluation for signs of discomfort. In Chinese medicine those factors are important, but practitioners also evaluate the sensitivity of acupoints throughout the body, assess tongue color and moisture, and examine other factors that arent in the normal diagnostic approach for Western medicine, he explains.Kaneps especially likes acupuncture for horses with back pain because of the equine research that supports its use for such cases, and he has seen multiple horses experience significant improvements after treatment.As with all complementary therapies, this does not mean I just treat a horse with acupuncture, he says. I may use some Western modalities as well as other complementary techniques to reduce back pain in a horse. Using one alone may not do it, but using several together can improve the outcome.Spinal Manipulative TherapyInflammation of the nerves and other tissues surrounding joints, especially in the spine, can lead to pain and reduced function, especially when the joints are stiff or immobile. Spinal manipulation (described at TheHorse.com/113280) could help restore the range of motion.Chiropractic adjustments keep the horse limber and moving to prevent areas of fixation through the neck, back, pelvis, etc., says Ed Boldt, DVM, owner of Performance Horse Complementary Medicine, PLLC, in Fort Collins, Colorado. Like human athletes, when (horses) are in better shape, they are less likely to have an injury.In Boldts opinion, horses that are not performing optimally are candidates for spinal manipulative therapy. He uses the example of a barrel horse running to the wall (where the horse runs past the barrel and doesnt slow down to turn) or going flat (leaning on his front end) around the barrel.A horse that is three-legged lame is not one that would benefit from chiropractic therapy, he says. Those horses need a diagnosis and treatment plan, and then integrative therapies might be added to help healing, he explains.Boldt also believes veterinarians trained in chiropractic care should make the adjustments. Some states allow chiropractors licensed to work on humans to have animals as patients after completing approved continuing education.To me, its important the vet is involved either doing the treatment or at least approving of the treatment, he says.Chiropractic care without an equine practitioners examination might worsen a situation. Boldt remembers being called to examine a horse treated by a nonveterinarian, and the horse was getting sorer rather than improving. By watching the horse move and using hoof testers, Boldt identified the horse had an abscess.In another case an older horse had fallen on an icy hill and injured his neck. The owner brought it to Boldt, who refused to provide an adjustment without radiographs.Thankfully, I insisted, he says. The horse had a fractured neck, and if Id just gone in and adjusted the horse there could have been severe consequences.Kaneps agrees that equine chiropractic adjustment is a well-tested modality, and those trained in it should perform treatment.Vibration Plate TherapyThe next time you watch a sporting event, notice how the athletes jump around on the sidelines, readying themselves for play. Turner likens the benefits of vibration therapy in horses to those loosening routines.The gentle motion is believed to increase blood flow, lessen joint pain and inflammation, and warm and loosen muscles, which reduces horses muscle tension before a ride. Research findings on the effects of whole-body vibration are mixed. One example is a Michigan State University study in which researchers subjectively found no difference in flexion, stride length, or heart rate after vibration therapy, but horses exhibited behavioral changes such as relaxation and less stress.In another study, out of Peninsula Equine Medical Center, in California, a researcher found that hooves grew faster after two months of whole-body vibration. Further, this vet and colleagues plus one from Western University of Health Sciences College of Veterinary Medicine observed an increase in back muscle size and symmetry after twice-daily whole-body vibration treatments five days a week for 60 days (Halsberghe et al., 2017).In general, horses really like it, says Gabrielle Solum, DVM, a resident at Equine Sports Medicine and Rehabilitation, in Whitesboro, Texas. They yawn and relax on there, so its a nice therapy for them to have. The biggest thing is if you achieve benefits like increased hoof growth and larger back muscles, it must be used daily and (you need to) recognize that there is no prolonged effect if you stop using the modality.Pulsed Electromagnetic Field (PEMF) TherapyThis approach uses pulsating magnetic fields, made by pulsing a small electrical current through wire coils, to jump-start and accelerate normal biological cellular reactions. Most of the information on PEMF therapy is on bone healing. Proponents say PEMF increases circulation and decreases pain and inflammation to accelerate healing.It is really good for muscle relaxation when an animal is relaxed, they hold themself differently, and we want a horse to bear its weight correctly, Turner says.Pulsed electromagnetic field therapy is just one type of electrical stimulation treatment. One of Turners go-to modalities that also falls into this category is functional electrostimulation (FES), which works to strengthen a muscle that is not being used and can provide pain relief. This mimics nerve patterns signaling the muscles to contract, and he has found it particularly beneficial when an area has been inactive following an injury.Functional electrostimulation has a lot of uses, Turner says. It can be particularly helpful for horses needing multiple spinal or skeletal adjustments. The electrostimulation helps fatigue the muscles so you can better work on an area.Ice/CryotherapySince the dawn of human sports medicine, doctors and surgeons have recommended ice baths to decrease inflammation and reduce pain. Solum says this easy-to-use treatment is underutilized.Ice boots are great to use after exercise for 20-30 minutes to decrease inflammation, she says. There are a lot of ice boots on the market, but its also acceptable to use a bucket of ice if your horse will tolerate it.She often pairs ice with heat, especially for horses with back pain or those performing athletically.You can place a warm towel on the horses back or use one of the microwavable products for humans, says Solum. I probably wouldnt use an electric heating pad, but there are benefits to using heat along the axial skeleton to give more mobility and prepare the horse to be athletic. Then Id follow that up with ice after activity.Be cautious about the materials temperature; you can damage tissue if its too hot. If you cannot tolerate the heat on your skin, its unlikely the horse can.Be sure to discuss ice and heat therapy with your veterinarian before using them on your horse, because in some situations one is more beneficial (or could be detrimental).Maintenance Begins with FitnessComplementary therapies offer diverse options for enhancing performance and well-being. Boldt says collaboration with veterinarians and integration with conventional therapies are key factors in developing a holistic approach to maintaining performance horses.Integrative therapies are another tool in the toolboxanother therapy we can use with conventional therapies, he says. They cant be used for everything, and Im an advocate that they are done by a veterinarian.Although it can be argued that conditioning and exercise fall under rehabilitation, our sources here agree they are fundamental. Kaneps explains that people dont run a 10K or a marathon without proper training. If they do, they are likely to sustain an injury. The same is true in equine athletes. Rehabilitation and conditioning exercise are the basis for having a good, strong equine athlete who is capable, and it hopefully helps prevent injury, he adds. When we see a horse with a sore back, we may use laser, shock wave, injection, or acupuncture, and the pain may be removed. But ultimately the horse needs to build core strength, topline strength, and flexibility and through exercise to build up that core.