Section Key Points Choosing the Best Heavy Duty Stable Guard Ensure safety and comfort by selecting the right stable guard focusing on ventilation, durability, or portability. Why Use a Stall Guard? Provides airflow and visibility, reduces stable stress, prevents overheating, and is made of tear-resistant materials. Key Features to Consider Material Strength: Nylon webbing, Polypropylene mesh, Adjustability. Safety Design: Padded edges, Secure attachments, Visibility. Portability: Lightweight options for shows and temporary partitions. Top Heavy-Duty Stall Guards in 2024 Dura-Tech Deluxe Dura-Mesh: Maximum airflow. WeatherBeeta Stall Guard: Durability. KM Elite Stall Guard: Chew-resistant. Hy Stable Guard Plus: Budget-friendly. Harrison Howard Aisle Guard: Reinforced safety. Pro Tips for Installation Measure first. Use screw-eye hooks. Check height. Where to Buy with Confidence Schneiders Big Dee's Tack & Vet Supplies Amazon/UK retailers Final Considerations Consider horse temperament, climate, and maintenance needs. Conclusion Prioritize durability and safety to maintain a stress-free environment for your horse and keep your barn organized. Choosing the Best Heavy Duty Stable Guard for Your Horse: Tips and Recommendations Ensuring your horse's safety and comfort starts with selecting the right stable guard. Whether you prioritize ventilation, durability, or portability, this guide breaks down the top options and critical considerations backed by industry insights. Why Use a Stall Guard? Stall guards, also known as stable guards, provide airflow and visibility while keeping horses securely contained. Unlike solid doors, they allow horses to interact socially, which helps to reduce stable stress and prevent overheating. Heavy-duty versions prioritize tear-resistant materials like 1200D triple-weave nylon or Dura-Mesh for anxious or powerful horses. Key Features to Consider 1. Material Strength - Nylon webbing: The KM Elite Stall Guard uses heavy-duty nylon for chew resistance. - Polypropylene mesh: Harrison Howard's guards feature reinforced four-sided stitching for withstanding kicking. - Adjustability: Schneiders Dura-Tech Deluxe Dura-Mesh includes side straps to fit openings up to 4 wide. 2. Safety Design - Padded edges: Protects your horses chest from abrasions. - Secure attachments: Four trigger clips prevent sagging. - Visibility: Mesh centers let horses monitor their surroundings, reducing anxiety. 3. Portability Lightweight guards like the LeMieux Stable Guard fold easily for shows, while aisle guards, such as Schneiders' nylon options, can partition barns without requiring permanent fixtures. Top Heavy-Duty Stall Guards in 2024 Product Material Adjustable? Price Range Best For Dura-Tech Deluxe Dura-Mesh Nylon web + Dura-Mesh Yes $50-$70 Maximum airflow WeatherBeeta Stall Guard 1200D triple-weave Yes $50-$60 Durability KM Elite Stall Guard Heavy-duty nylon Yes $40-$50 Chew-resistant Hy Stable Guard Plus Padded nylon No $35-$45 Budget-friendly Harrison Howard Aisle Guard Polypropylene mesh Yes $55-$75 Reinforced safety Pro Tips for Installation 1. Measure first: Ensure the guard spans 90-100% of the doorway width. 2. Use screw-eye hooks: Schneiders recommends using heavy-duty hardware to prevent pull-outs. 3. Check height: Position the stall guard 45-48 above the floor to discourage jumping. Where to Buy with Confidence - Schneiders: Trusted for durable designs like the Dura-Tech line. - Big Dee's Tack & Vet Supplies: Offers mesh guards and yoke gates from top brands. - Amazon/UK retailers: Stock KM Elite and WeatherBeeta models with verified reviews. Final Considerations - Horse temperament: Anxious horses benefit from deep-yoke gates. - Climate: Choose waterproof guards for humid barns. - Maintenance: Clean mesh guards monthly to prevent debris buildup. Conclusion By prioritizing durability and safety, youll create a stress-free environment that keeps your horse healthy and your barn organized. For more equestrian gear, take a look at our Jodhpur Collection, Horse Riding Boot Collection, and Horse Riding Gloves Collection. ```html```

Jack Murphys Dolmen horses take 3 Top 10 Places and each was out of a different mare strength in depth. With 34 podium places, Irish horses have another good week and we all have our fingers crossed for a good showing this week. Good luck to them all. See below the up-to-date results for this week unverified results will be added to next weeks results. Osberton International and One Day Event (GBR) 1st 4th May 2025 CCI 3* Short Sec H 1st This Ones on You (ISH) 2009 gelding by ARS Vivendi (HOLST) out of Clovers Diamond (AID) by Clover Hill (ID). Breeder: William Kirwan (Laois). Rider: Joshua Levett (GBR) 28.3, 0, 0.0 = 28.3 2nd Manjushri (ISH)[was Candy Classic] 2017 gelding by Sligo Candy Boy (ISH) out of Ramiro in the Air (ISH) by Ramiro B (BWP). Breeder: Michael Burke. Rider: Alex Hua Tian []

The uneasiness of being disconnected from a constantly online existence can ruin your barn time, urging you to reach for cell phones and other electronic devices instead of staying present. Not only does this make for some unsafe practices, but it takes away attention solely reserved for your horse. Here, a psychologist and two trainers will share insight on how to deal with the distraction of technology at the barn.Photo by Laura Boynton JobsonDo Not DisturbJanet Edgette, Psy.D., explains that tuning out distractions in your life so you can spend a few hours at the barn in relative peace largely has to do with your ability to set and keep boundariesfor both yourself and others.Janet Edgette, Psy.D., likes to be unreachable during her barn time, leaving her phone behind. Photo courtesy Janet EdgetteIf you have young children, are a single parent, have a relative whos ill, or an urgent work matter taking place, then you may not be able to do that for any significant length of time, emotionally or practically speaking, she says.Barring those things, Edgette will tell herself, Im riding in her head when she is out in the arena with her horse as fair warning to anyone who would try to get in touch or expect to hear back from her. She stresses that this serves as a great reminder to stay in the moment and not feel guilty for taking time to work with your horse.This is a way for me to set boundaries without having to depend on others to conform to them, she says. I dont even bring my cell phone into the barn, which strikes some people as weird, but I like it that way. Its what allows me to be at the barn undisturbed riding, grooming, and training, knowing that where I am and what Im doing at any given moment is the place where my attention needs to be.Personally, Edgette loves feeling as if she is unreachable when she is at the barn.I have also gone through different periods in my life where I needed to stay close to my cell phone, she says. These days, however, I give myself permission to not check any business emails or texts or take those calls while Im at the barn.Safe ModeTrainer Jenny Jordan Frid is the co-founder and owner of Robin Frid Show Horses in Pilot Point, Texas, with husband Robin. She works as a coach and clinician to top-level national and international equestrian athletes, and is herself a multiple Champion, Reserve Champion and High-Point exhibitor with the American Quarter Horse Association.Jenny Jordan Frid and husband Robin Frid have a no phones while handling or riding rule at their training barn. Photo by Mallory BeinbornIf I feel clients cant stay focused because of their phones, I will say something out of responsibility, shares Frid. The thing we have to remember is that the majority of our riders are middle-class, hard-working individuals that have to work in order to afford a life with horses. I understand that 100 percent, since I have to work my career of real estate while coaching and training. My working clients understand, so I have to be understanding, too. But theres a difference between urgent matters and pure distraction.That is totally different than going through social media while preparing to ride, says Frid. Weve asked riders to leave their phones out of the arena or say no phone while handling or riding. In todays world where we all think we cant be away from our phones, we have to enforce these barn rules.Checking your phone and scrolling social media while handling a horse, even if youre not in the saddle, not only takes you out of the moment, but can be unsafe. Photo by Laura Boynton JobsonThe most unsafe situations that Frid has witnessed have been when people are longeing horses, not paying attention, and reading their phone. In her opinion, not being on your phone while doing groundwork is just good common sense for horses and humans.High ResolutionTrainer and exhibitor Alisa Forton owns and operates Excalibur Stables in Traverse City, Mich., and offers boarding, leasing, lessons and all-around training where she works with all levels of riders. Forton shows 4-H, Open, and breed shows with the American Quarter Horse Association and American Paint Horse Association.Alisa Forton. Photo by Deb WilcoxenShe explains that its almost an unspoken rule at her farm that when you come to ride, phones are put away and the horse gets 100 percent of the attention.Ive seen people that are on their phones while riding and almost caused collisions by not paying attention to the arena traffic, says Forton. Ive also seen people walking into the arena with their heads [down on] their phones and almost get run over since they arent looking where theyre going.Music in headphones can be beneficial when working on consistency and focus, although that has a caveat as well.It should be soft enough that you can still hear your surroundings, says Forton. Horses can react in a split second, and being able to hear whats going on around you can make the difference of being more in tune with your horse and knowing why he reacts to sounds in the ways he does.When it comes to getting her riders to leave the temptation of whats going on with their phones, she has found it helpful to involve them in planning their lessons or helping them set riding or showing goals. The more interested and invested they are in the subject, the easier it is for them to leave the stress of work or school behind, says Forton. I think its also important to remember that horses are living beings who enjoy our undivided full attention.By placing boundaries on how you spend your time at the barn like Edgette, finding a safe balance of work and riding time like Frid, or focusing on being dedicated to your horse like Forton, youll find a way to stay connected with a full battery to life and to your horse.This article about technology distractions at the barn appeared in the May 2024 issue of Horse Illustratedmagazine.Click here to subscribe!The post Technology Distractions at the Barn appeared first on Horse Illustrated Magazine.

Flies are frustrating, irritating and can cause unwanted behavioural reactions. There are lots of different flying insects, for us as horse owners, it is the horse fly that receives the most attention. However, there are many others that need we need to be aware of.Flies also pose challenges to horse owners trying to determine the best course of action, in order to keep their horse comfortable. Jump To:Recognising Flies and InsectsFly Repellent SafetyTypes of RepellentDEETEucalyptus Citriodora OilPermethrin and CypermethrinCitronella OilManaging your Fly Free ZoneThe NAF Off RangeRecognising Flies and InsectsThe Black Fly finds a home inside their ears, they need an area with little hair and suck the blood from there. The Black Fly is around throughout the warmer months along with the Midge. The Midge becomes more active at the break of dawn or dusk, as they bite it releases saliva into the skin, it is this that can initiate the itching sensation. The Crab Fly tends to remain between the hindlegs but have no wings, they have to be brushed away. Then you have the Stable Fly, these breed in our muckheaps and tend to gather around the face and the eyes and appear around the same time as the Horse Fly. The Horse Fly receives the most attention, likely down to the fact it can cut through the skin, this will create a larger lesion and possibly result in a skin reaction.Fly Repellent SafetyIt is a legal requirement that all fly repellents come under Biocide and Pesticide regulations; each repellent will require a HSE number which must be displayed on the product label. This registration ensures you are using active ingredients proven to be both safe and effective, therefore look for the approval number on repellents to ensure the product you choose is legal. Beware of essential oils and home remedies, they can be very aggressive, causing severe reactions on some horses, dependent on both concentration rates and how they have been combined. There are many fly repellents on the market today without a registered HSE number.Types of RepellentSome plants have the natural ability to mask scents that are attractive to insects, while others can confuse the insects odour receptors and create an unappealing landing environment for them.DEETDEET is a well-known synthetic repellent. It combines what nature has taught us into one product. Formulated by US soldiers upon testing times in the jungle during 1944. Its original form was known as bug juice, generally, the higher the rate of DEET the more effective it will be. However, safe levels for use on horses and in our environment, are capped, so avoid using DEET repellents designed for use on people, as these are likely to be too high for your horse. As with any topical application it is always worth doing a patch test for 48 hours. DEET works by confusing the flies receptors, so while they may continue to fly they will struggle and be confused by where they may land. Used at the upper end recommended for Equines effects can last 6-8 hours.Eucalyptus Citriodora OilA naturally derived oil with proven insect repellency and a lemon scent. The oil is used in many different insect repellents as it is believed to disrupt the insects odour receptors.Permethrin and CypermethrinThese are active ingredients found in some equine fly repellents on the US market. These products are not approved for topical application to horse other than as agreed by the Veterinary Medicines Directive, due to their high toxicity. Permethrin and Cypermethrin work by targeting the nervous system and creating paralysis or worse when the insect lands. These compounds are toxic to both fish and cats, so caution would be advised when using around your horse particularly if your yard relies on an efficient feline for rodent control. Permethrin and Cypermethrin are neurotoxins, however, they are broken down quickly in sunlight which may limit their long lasting capabilities.Citronella OilCitronella Oil has traditionally been used to deter insects, however, its legal status for this has never been established in terms of efficacy and safety, and therefore no product based on Citronella Oil can be marketed as a fly repellent. This has led to confusion, with some people thinking it is banned for competition use, but that is not the case. Citronella products are safe and legal to use in competition, both generally and under FEI rules they simply cant be marketed as a fly repellents.Managing your Fly Free ZoneAvoid turn out with standing water such as pondsMost prefer to seek shelter when turned out in the heat of the day as opposed to driving rainUse only registered repellents and follow instructions on the packagingKeep stables clean and manage muck heaps to avoid breeding areas for fliesPoo picking can help support a healthy grazing environment, it will also help to reduce the breeding areaFly rugs can help to prevent flies from landing directly on individuals a popular choice is to spray on top of the fly rugWash off sweat thoroughly, flies are attracted to the chemical signals in sweat and the aromas in stable stains. Some products can be used to wash sweat off and provide a lasting scent.For those that do not like the traditional spray applicator, there are gels that are easily applied with the same formulation to support against fly menace.Warmer temperatures extend fly life cycles and can lead to population growth, this can last from the spring to the autumn months. At night flies can be attracted to artificial lights which could be sensors on yards, ensuring they are not directly next to a stable will help them avoid unwanted contact. They will also move towards food sources, so it is good practice to wash out feed bowls. While midges are most active at dawn and dusk, providing a field shelter or stabling throughout these periods will help to mitigate fly menace.Applying a good repellent will help to provide an unwanted environment for flies to explore, look for one with long lasting qualities. Usually around 6-8 hour periods before efficacy reduces and re-application is required.The NAF Off RangeGet unwanted visitors to NAF Off, with NAFs popular Deet Power Performance and Extra Effect protection against flies, horse flies, and other insect menaces. From summer coat care with their citronella spray, gel, and washes, to their ultimate fly protection performance products, there is something for the good of every horse. Plus, the NAF Citronella Wristbands provide extra protection for riders too. Discover all NAF Off Products The post Fly Free with NAF Off Top Tips on Repelling Flies first appeared on Redpost Equestrian Blog.

Old horses might need additional nutritional supplementation if they become deficient as they age. | iStockQ: My horse will be turning 20 soon, and my barnmate told me I need to be more cautious about how I feed him vitamins and minerals to ensure I meet his daily requirements. Will his requirements change as he ages? Are there any specific vitamins he might become deficient in?A: Just as a humans nutritional requirements change as they age, so will your horses; however, working with your veterinarian and an equine nutritionist can help you ensure he is getting the nutrition he needs during his senior years.Vitamin C can be particularly interesting for senior horses. In a study that looked atphysiologic differences between young horses and older horses, researchers found that older horses had lower vitamin C levels overall. Of course, horses are a species, unlike humans or guinea pigs or any other animals, that can actually synthesize their own vitamin C,so we dont know if horses just cant produce enough vitamin C, or perhaps they use more of it because it is a pretty powerful antioxidant. This might mean that its necessary to supplement vitamin C if you have an older horse.Just like if a child ate too many vitamin C orange-flavored vitamins, oversupplying most nutrients, including vitamin C, is not a major concern because these can be excreted through the urine. However, there are some theories that oversupplying some vitamins, such as vitamin C, could inhibit the horses innate ability to produce them, making continued supplementation necessary.As horses get older, they might also become deficient in vitamin E and require supplementation, especially if they have little pasture available to them. When evaluating your horses vitamin E levels, it is important toanalyze your horses diet. However,you can also ask your veterinarian for bloodwork to ensure that your horses vitaminE status is good.Vitamin E is relatively safe, even in higher doses, but it can potentially prevent the absorption of other nutrients if overfed in excessive quantities. Ultimately, working with an equine nutritionist to regularly evaluate your horses diet,and with yourveterinarian totest your horses blood levels will help ensure that they receive proper nutrition as they age.

Key Points Details Understanding Horse Exercise Exercise is essential for cardiovascular health and energy efficiency. Enhances muscle strength, coordination, and overall performance. Benefits bone and muscle development, especially in young horses. Traveling vs. Exercising Travel provides physical activity but lacks the benefits of structured exercise. Travel is variable in impact and can cause stress and fatigue. Stress and Conditioning Traveling can be stressful and impact physical condition negatively. Regular exercise improves physical and mental health. Health Benefits of Exercise Improves cardiovascular health, muscle strength, digestion, stress management, and weight control. Myths and Misconceptions Traveling does not substitute the structured benefits of planned exercise. Truths Traveling is not a substitute for exercise. Exercise offers long-term health benefits. Conclusion Travel provides physical activity, but structured exercise is crucial for optimal horse health. Incorporate regular exercise and appropriate equipment for training. Is Traveling Equivalent to Exercising for Horses? Exploring Myths and TruthsThe world of equine care is a blend of passion, commitment, and a quest for optimal health and well-being. As horse enthusiasts, distinguishing between different aspects of horse health is vital. In this article, we set out to explore the difference between traveling and exercising for horses, debunking common myths and embracing the truth about these two distinct activities.Understanding Horse ExerciseExercise plays a crucial role in maintaining a horse's health, offering numerous physical and mental benefits. Here's a deeper look:Cardiovascular Health and Energy EfficiencyRegular exercise enhances a horse's cardiovascular fitness and energy efficiency. This improvement results from the enhanced function of mitochondria, the powerhouse of cells responsible for energy metabolism. Structured exercise, whether endurance-based or high-intensity, boosts the production of adenosine triphosphate (ATP), thereby improving the horse's overall performance.Muscle Strength and CoordinationExercise fosters the development of strong muscles through hypertrophy and neural adaptations. These changes enhance muscle coordination, enabling horses to move with efficiency and power. Consistent moderate exercise is key in supporting skeletal muscle health and musculoskeletal function, essential components for long-term mobility and athletic success.Bones and Muscles DevelopmentFor young equines, early exercise, particularly among Thoroughbreds, can result in stronger bones and enhanced athletic potential. Early training is a factor contributing to successful racing careers.Traveling vs. Exercising for HorsesTraveling as a Form of ExerciseWhile traveling, such as moving horses to new pastures or transporting them via trailers, involves some level of physical activity, it is very different from structured exercising: Duration and Intensity: Travel lacks the intensity and consistency of structured exercise programs designed to enhance specific physical properties like endurance and strength. Variable Impact: The inconsistent activities during travel do not provide the same benefits as planned exercise routines. Furthermore, the stress from traveling can potentially cause fatigue and anxiety.Stress and ConditioningTravel can be a stressful experience for horses, especially when confined in trailers during long-distance journeys. This stress can negatively affect their physical condition, contrary to regular exercise, which enhances physical and mental health.Health Benefits of ExerciseRegular exercise is essential for improving aspects such as cardiovascular health, muscle strength, digestion, stress management, and weight control. Unlike travel, exercise consistently enhances a horse's overall fitness and well-being.Myths and MisconceptionsA widely held myth is that traveling will keep horses active enough. However, movement alone during travel does not adequately substitute the structured benefits of planned exercise aimed at improving specific facets of equine health.Truths About Traveling and Exercising Traveling is Not a Substitute for Exercise: Although traveling offers some physical movement, it cannot replace the comprehensive health improvements facilitated by structured exercise programs. Exercise Offers Long-Term Health Benefits: Consistent exercise from an early age promotes better cardiovascular health, stronger bones, and improved athletic performance throughout a horse's lifetime.ConclusionIn summary, while traveling allows for some physical activity, it should never be confused with the benefits of structured exercise. Exercise is indispensable for maintaining top-notch health and fitness in horses, contributing to a healthier, happier life full of vigor and vitality. As horse owners, recognizing these differences allows for informed decision-making in horse care, ensuring our equine companions lead the best lives possible.Incorporate regular exercise as part of your horse's routine and explore the best riding equipment to enhance their training experience. Visit [Just Horse Riders](https://www.justhorseriders.co.uk/) for an array of equine necessities, from horse riding boots to essential wellness supplements and accessories.

One horse at a private facility in Challam County, Washington, recently tested positive for equine influenza. The horse is under quarantine, and two additional cases are suspected.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 Equine InfluenzaEquine influenzais a highly contagious respiratory disease that infects horses, ponies, and other equids, such as donkeys, mules, and zebras. The virus that causes it is spread via saliva and respiratory secretions from infected horses. Horses are commonly exposed via horse-to-horse contact; aerosol transmission from coughing and sneezing; and contact with humans contaminated hands, shoes, or clothes or contaminated tack, buckets, or other equipment.Clinical signs of equine influenza infection can include a high fever (up to 106F); a dry, hacking cough; depression; weakness; anorexia; serous (watery) nasal discharge; and slightly enlarged lymph nodes. Consider monitoring your horses health at shows by taking his temperature daily, which can help you pick up on signs of infection early and take appropriate measures to reduce disease spread.Vaccinationis an important and inexpensive way to protect your horse. US Equestrian requires proof that horses have had an equine influenza vaccination within the six months prior to attending organization-sanctioned competitions or events. Your veterinarian can help you determine what other vaccines your horse might benefit from.In addition to vaccinating, following strictbiosecurity protocolscan help reduce your horses chance of infection and disease. Such measures include quarantining new equine arrivals at barns, disinfecting buckets and equipment, and preventing nose-to-nose contact between horses.

Seventeen horses in Texas recently tested positive for equine infectious anemia (EIA), including six in Wise County, one in Montague County, one in Hood County, one in Wharton County, five in Brazos County, one in Van Zandt County, and two in Cooke County.The positive horses have all either been quarantined or euthanized. The Texas Animal Health Commission is working closely with the owners and local veterinarians to monitor potentially exposed horses and implement biosecurity measures.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 EIAEquine infectious anemiais a viral disease that attacks horses immune systems. The virus is transmitted through the exchange of body fluids from an infected to an uninfected animal, often by blood-feeding insects such as horseflies. It can also be transmitted through the use of blood-contaminated instruments or needles.ACoggins test screens horses blood for antibodiesthat are indicative of the presence of the EIA virus. Most U.S. states require horses to have proof of a negative Coggins test to travel across state lines.Once an animal is infected with EIA, it is infected for life and can be a reservoir for the spread of disease. Not all horses show signs of disease,but those that do can exhibit:Progressive body condition loss;Muscle weakness;Poor stamina;Fever;Depression; andAnemia.EIA has no vaccine and no cure. A horse diagnosed with the disease dies, is euthanized, or must be placed under extremely strict quarantine conditions (at least 200 yards away from unaffected equids) for the rest of his life.