Photo by NaletovaAdobe StockI had just flopped onto my couch, remote in hand. Sunny, one of my teenage daughters, breezed through the front door, phone against her ear, and gave the door a careless slam. The windows rattled, and I raised my head.I think one of my teenagers must have just walked in, I said to my daughters back as she disappeared down the hall. The door to her room slammed shut.Hi, Sunny! I said to no one, then started my movie.I was happily munching my popcorn when my daughter reappeared and flopped onto the couch next to me. She was now wearing her favorite huge pajamas and hoodie, and she snatched a handful of my popcorn.Whatcha watching, Mom?InterruptedI started to answer, but my phone rang. It was one of my good friends, but I wanted to watch my movie, and debated letting it go to voicemail. My daughter snatched the phone from my hand and gave me an evil smile.Hey, Annie. Yes, shes right herehold on!I sighed and took the phone, but the panic in my friends voice got me off the couch, fast. I was half dressed before shed finished telling me what was going on, and my daughter watched me run back and forth, grabbing my muck boots, coat, hat, headlamp, and vet bag.Mom, whats going on?Annies watching Libbys horses, and one is down. Ive got to go help her. Libby was also a good friend, and shed given my daughters riding lessons since they were small.To my surprise, Sunny leaped off the couch and pulled on her muck boots and Carhartt coat. Im going with you!This was nice. Sunny didnt come on calls with me very often, and I pointed at her pajamas, bagging over the tops of her boots.You might want your coveralls, kiddo. Sunny shrugged, and followed me out to the truck, and we roared out of the driveway, headlights slicing into the dark night.Down for the CountWe scanned the field as we pulled up to Libbys place, and a dark figure waved a flashlight at us frantically. I parked as close as I could, and we ducked through the wire fence and hurried over to a small group of people huddled around a dark shape on the ground.It was Libbys favorite mare, Annabelle, and her head moved weakly as I approached. Her eyes were wide as she struggled desperately for a minute, then lay still.I rapidly checked her vitals and gum color and listened to her belly, but everything seemed normal. I noticed some bloody tissue under her tail when I took her temperature, and the muddy ground was torn up around her.We were on a gently sloping hill, and Annabelles body lay slightly downhill from her legs. I suspected that she was cast (unable to get to her feet). When a horse is in the same position for too long, the weight of their body can injure muscles and they can become paralyzed in one or more limbs.There was no way to know how long the mare had been stuck like this, but the blood under her tail told me that the magpies had been pecking at her, so it had probably been quite a while. Would we even be able to get her back up?Annie and the others had brought several long ropes, and I tied slip knots around both of the mares down legs. Sunny was darting around us, anxious to help, and she held the light for me as I secured the ropes.Now Sunny, I want you to stay far away from Annabelle when we flip her over! I said sternly. She may thrash and struggle, and I dont want you getting hurt.Sunny nodded and I chuckled at her billowing pajamas and tall boots.You look like a pirate, I told her. She grinned at me and saluted, then ducked out of the way as I called to the others holding the ropes. We stood in a line just downhill of Annabelle. One! Two! And THREE!A Big ScareWe all heaved as hard as we could. Annabelle slowly rocked onto her back, then rolled completely over. We scrambled back as she lunged to her feet, staggered, began to fall, and briefly caught herself, shaking the ropes free.Annabelle rocked violently in place, then tumbled forward, lurching rapidly down a steeper section of the hill. To my dismay, Sunny was directly below her, running for dear life in her flapping pajamas and coat, knees almost to her chest as the mare plunged and scrambled and staggered barely 3 inches behind her. The scene seemed to go on forever. Annie and I watched helplessly as the figures careened wildly down the hill.Sunny finally had the presence of mind to duck behind a thick bush, and mercifully Annabelle came to a stop above her. The mare wobbled in place but stayed on her feet. I made sure Sunny was OK, then haltered the mare and coaxed her up the hill. Annie coaxed a shaken Sunny along behind us.Annabelle and Sunny both recovered quickly, and the mare took some hay from my daughters hands after drinking half a bucket of water. Sunny helped rub Annabelle down with a thick, soft towel.Sweet ReliefOn the drive home, I kept picturing Sunny fleeing through the dark in her huge pajamas with the horse right behind her, and I laughed until my sides cramped.Nice, Mom, Sunny said indignantly. I almost die, and youre laughing about it?I gave her a one-armed hug. Im very glad youre OK, sweetie. Maybe next time, run across the hill, not down it?She glared at me.Maybe next time, tell me that before the horse gets up! This edition of Vet Adventures appeared in the March 2024 issue of Horse Illustratedmagazine.Click here to subscribe!The post Vet Adventures: A Night of Terror appeared first on Horse Illustrated Magazine.

Lyme isnt the only tick-borne illness horse owners need to considerWhats been considered the natural ranges of ticks is evolving, and many ticks are found well outside what has been considered their traditional geographical areas. | iStockLyme is the tick-borne disease most people think of first, but it isnt the only one. Anaplasmosis is another disease of clinical significance in horses, and other diseases might be on the rise (Have you heard of ehrlichiosis in horses?). In this story well look at what ticks are troublesome to horses, when and where they can be found, then discuss the clinical signs, diagnosis, and treatment of anaplasmosis, the other tick-borne disease that always seems to take a back seat to Lyme.Which Ticks are Found on Horses?In the U.S., many hard ticks infest horses, including the American dog tick (Dermacentor variabilis), the winter tick (Dermacentor albipictus), the lone star tick (Amblyomma Americanum), the Gulf Coast tick (A. maculatum), and the black-legged tick (Ixodes scapularis).Of particular interest to horse owners and veterinarians is the ability of these ticks to transmit disease agents, says Kathryn Duncan, DVM, PhD, Dipl. ACVM, adjunct assistant professor at Oklahoma State University, in Stillwater, who has studied the subject with colleague Kellee Sundstrom, MS, senior research specialist. Occasionally, a foreign animal disease, such as equine piroplasmosis, is diagnosed in the U.S. Ticks can be implicated as the cause of transmission, but the tick-borne disease agents most often transmitted to horses are through a bite from Ixodes species.Where Ticks are FoundGeographically Traditionally, I. scapularis are found in the eastern parts of the United States, whereas I. pacificus are found along the West Coast, including California, Washington, and Oregon, with a few reports coming from Nevada and Utah. With continued biogeographical changes, however, the natural ranges of ticks are evolving, experts say, and many ticks are found well outside what has been considered their traditional geographical areas.The lone star tick is a hard tick commonly found on horses. | Courtesy Jim GathanySonenshine et al. (2018) reported that the main reason for expansion of ticks is climate change, notably the rapidly rising global temperatures. That said, host availability and specificity, habitat suitability, relative humidity tolerance, the extent and duration of freezing temperatures, and human impact (habitat modification) all contribute. As an example of expanding tick ranges, Sonenshine et al. noted that I. scapularis densities have also intensified in many areas, and they appear to be advancing into parts of southern Canada at a rate of about 46 km (28.5 miles)/year.Anatomically (on the Horse) In a study on horses in northeastern Oklahoma, Sundstrom et al. (2021) looked at the types of ticks infesting horses and the preferred site of attachment. Client-owned horses residing on eight farms were examined twice monthly for one year. Researchers collected ticks from those horses and recorded the anatomic location of attachment. They included 88 horses in the study, and 84.1% of horses were infested with ticks at least once during the study period.The median number of ticks per horse was three. Researchers identified five different tick species, the most common being A. Americanumthe lone star tick (78.2%)followed by I. scapularis, which was much less prevalent (18.2%). They found the lone star tick most often attached in the inguinal region (groin), and they found I. scapularis primarily on the chest and armpits (axilla) of the horses.What Times of Year In that same study Sundstrom et al. also noted ticks were discovered on horses year-round in northeastern Oklahoma with the largest number seen in May. I. scapularis predominated October through February and was still common in March.The belief that ticks are only out in the summer is a myth that many tick researchers and veterinarians have been trying to bust for a while now, explains Duncan. Tick numbers may decline in the winter, but the extent to which this happens is dependent on the geographic region.In fact, she says that Ixodes spp and D. albipictus prefer cooler months.Ticks will overwinter in leaf litter, under snow cover, and in reservoir host habitats but reemerge when there are ample hosts available and slightly warmer days, Duncan explains. In order to reemerge in the spring, some stages are required to survive the winters. With milder winters and premature emergence of warm weather, we can expect ticks to be noted earlier than weve seen in the past. This is likely a trend that will remain based on continued tick habitat changes.A Look at Anaplasmosis (and Some Comparisons to Lyme)This disease is caused by an infection with Anaplasma phagocytophilum, which is a type of bacterium in the rickettsial group. These bacteria must live inside the cells of the infected animal. With anaplasmosis, the bacteria live inside white blood cells, which are also called granulocytes. This is why veterinarians also refer to anaplasmosis as equine granulocytic anaplasmosis (EGA). In contrast, the bacterial spirochete Borrelia burgdorferi causes Lyme disease.Similar to Lyme disease, A. phagocytophilum is transmitted to horses via the bite of an infected black-legged tickI. scapularis, I. pacificus, and other Ixodes spp. After the bite, the tick injects the bacterium into the horses skin. Migrating granulocytes respond to the local inflammation and engulf the bacteria, attempting to kill them.But A. phagocytophilum is now exactly where it wants to be, inside the cell, where it is able to avoid natural immune defenses, says Duncan. Disease symptoms are caused by natural immune chemicals like interferon trying to fight off the infected cells. It takes about one week before the horse begins showing signs of disease.Clinical Signs of AnaplasmosisClassic clinical signs of anaplasmosis can be as mild as the horse having a fever, depression, subtle limb edema (fluid swelling), and ataxia (incoordination).Many horses with anaplasmosis probably dont show any clinical signs at all, says Janet Foley, DVM, PhD, professor in the Department of Medicine and Epidemiology at the University of California, Davis (UC Davis), School of Veterinary Medicine.More severe signs, which typically develop in older, geriatric horses, include loss of appetite, reluctance to move, icterus (jaundice), and petechiae, which are small pinpoint bruises on the skin.When present, the fever is quite high, usually 103-104 F, but can reach 107-108 F and lasts for about five days.That said, tick-borne diseases are true masters of disguise, and researchers have described various other clinical presentations. John Madigan, DVM, MS, Dipl. ACVIM, a professor in the Department of Medicine and Epidemiology at the UC Davis School of Veterinary Medicine, recently published an article describing one horse with dysphagia (difficulty swallowing) and another with respiratory distress attributable to anaplasmosis (2021).Veterinary DiagnosisHorses with potential exposure to ticksessentially, those in every state in the U.S.presenting with the above-described clinical signs, particularly a high fever, should be tested for anaplasmosis.A horse presenting with a high-ish fever that resides in a place that overlapsgeographically with I. pacificus would definitely make you want to test for anaplasmosis, says Foley.Testing includes the following steps:A complete blood cell count. Typical findings include either a decrease in white blood cell counts or a decrease in all three cell lines: white blood cells, red blood cells, and platelets. This latter presentation is called pancytopenia.Microscopic analysis of the blood cells. The white blood cells might show cytoplasmic inclusion bodies, which are the rickettsial organisms living inside the granulocytes.A polymerase chain reaction (PCR) test, a molecular method for detecting DNA of the bacterium in a horses blood sample.The IDEXX SNAP 4Dx that detects antibodies to anaplasmosis. It provides a positive or negative indication for antibodies, but it does not confirm an active infection.An immunofluorescence antibody test (IFAT) that identifies antibodies against A. phagocytophilum. Veterinarians must interpret this result with caution, however, because many horses living in areas where hard ticks are endemic might have those antibodies.Acute and convalescent titers. This is an IFAT performed when the horse is first sick to measure the antibody levels, then again two to four weeks later. The antibody levels increase about fourfold in horses that have been actively infected.Anaplasmosis must be differentiated from other diseases. Because horses can exhibit ataxia, the top differentials include viral encephalitides such as equine herpesvirus myeloencephalopathy (EHM), West Nile virus, and the Eastern and Western encephalitis viruses. Other conditions to consider are liver disease (because of the jaundice); purpura hemorrhagica, which is a secondary complication to strangles (Streptococcus equi bacterial) infection; viral arteritis; and even the reportable and highly fatal disease equine infectious anemia (EIA).Treating AnaplasmosisLike Lyme disease, anaplasmosis is easily treatable. Veterinarians antibiotic of choice is oxytetracycline.There are different treatment protocols out there, but a standard full course of antibiotics is appropriate, 10 days, says Foley.For more severely affected horses, practitioners can administer corticosteroids in addition to intravenous fluids and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatories.Unlike many other diseases that fail to spare the feet, few horses with anaplasmosis ever develop laminitis.How Commonly Does Anaplasmosis Strike?In Northern California, anaplasmosis is actually pretty common, says Foley.Duncan agrees, adding, These infections are probably more common than we realize. But considering most horses are never tested for tick-borne diseases, we cant know for sure.Nonetheless, tick-borne diseases are frequently considered as causes for disease (i.e., fever, lethargy, lameness, ataxia) in horses where ticks are endemic. But a Pennsylvania survey shows that infection with A. phagocytophilum and B. burgdorferi is not all that common even though ticks are commonly found in the state.In that survey Thompson et al. analyzed blood samples collected from 271 horses whose veterinarians suspected tick-borne disease. The researchers used PCR to detect DNA from both bacteria and used the IDEXX SNAP 4Dx and an IFAT to detect antibodies. Key findings were:Researchers identified DNA for A. phagocytophilium in 7% of the horses. They did not find B. burgdorferi DNA in any horse;They detected antibodies to A. phagocytophilium and B. burgdorferi in 28.4% and 67.9% of horses, respectively;With IFAT they discovered antibody titers of 1:50 or more in 41.3% and 60.5% of horses for A. phagocytophilium and B. burgdorferi, respectively.The high prevalence of antibodies to both bacteria in this survey shows that horses in Pennsylvania, where ticks are common, could have prolonged, repeated exposure to these pathogens (TheHorse.com/1118403).Again, though, simply identifying antibodies does not confirm that either of these bacteria are causing the disease. The presence of antibodies simply proves exposure to the bacteria, says Foley.The lack of B. burgdorferi DNA found in that study wasnt surprising because the bacteria do not persist in the bloodstream for very long.For Lyme disease the bacteria can be sequestered in the joint, as well as any connective tissue, including kidney capsule, etc. For anaplasmosis, though, we do expect circulating blood to be PCR-positive during active infection, says Foley.Identifying A. phagocytophilium DNA together with the lack of circulating antibodies in the bloodstream (the body hasnt had time to produce them yet) and the presence of high fever or other clinical signs consistent with disease supports a diagnosis of anaplasmosis.Emerging Tick-Borne DiseasesWhile Lyme, anaplasmosis, and piroplasmosis are the only three tick-borne diseases discussed in the U.S. for equids, surveys from other regions suggest Rickettsia spp and Ehrlichia spp might be clinically relevant in horses.Therefore, Duncan et al. (2022) wanted to better understand the transmission risk of these tick-borne rickettsial disease agents. In their study they tested ticks from horses residing in Oklahoma using PCR.Additionally, they analyzed blood samples from horses both infested and not infested with ticks for antibodies to these bacteria.They reported that illnesses caused by Rickettsia spp and Ehrlichia spp could be emerging tick-borne diseases in horses.We found that one-quarter of the ticks recovered from tick-infested horses contained DNA of Rickettsia spp, and R. amblyommatis was the most common species identified. This is part of the spotted fever group of bacteria, is transmitted by the lone star tick, and is currently considered nonpathogenic, relays Duncan. Ehrlichia spp were found far less commonly in ticks recovered from horses.In contrast, researchers did not find circulating antibodies for R. rickettsii in any of the study horses, but almost 30% of horses had antibodies for Ehrlichia spp.These results suggest there is a need to further explore the role of Rickettsia spp and Ehrlichia spp in equine health, states Duncan.The fact other diseases might also be transmitted by ticks isnt surprising, considering ticks are known to transmit several different disease agents to humans in addition to Borrelia and Anaplasma. Examples include the agents of Rocky Mountain spotted fever, ehrlichiosis, tularemia, babesiosis, Colorado tick fever, and Powassan virus disease, among others.Take-Home MessageSome of the main takeaways from the current research are:Many tick types can infest horses, but few are currently known to actually transmit disease to horses;Tick ranges are expanding, so ticks are found in geographical ranges and at times of year they havent previously been found;Anaplasmosis can occur commonly in certain geographic areas and should be considered as important a tick-borne disease as Lyme disease.If residing in a region with a heavy tick burden, be aware of practices to prevent tick-borne diseases including using regular tick control, screening annually with an antibody test, and performing thorough tick checks with proper removal, advises Duncan.

Section Key Points Transforming Agricultural Barns Challenging yet rewarding. Adds comfort and flair to the property. Stable Conversion Basics Assess structural integrity for rotted joists or water entry. Prevention is key. Designing the Stalls Size and Layout: Minimum 10'x10', ideal 12'x12'. Stall Features: Ensure walls meet the floor, use 2 x 8 tongue and groove wood. Partition Options: Solid, Vented, Pipe-Grill, each with pros and cons. Additional Features Feed and Tack Rooms: Use existing concrete slabs to save costs. Wash Racks: Provide safe grooming areas. Storage: Keep tools organized and the stable clutter-free. Insulation & Ventilation: Maintain temperature, use bead board for walls. Budgeting and Planning Structural Repairs: Assess and fix issues like sagging beams. Material Costs: Plan based on barn size and condition. Permits & Inspections: Secure necessary permits for compliance with local codes. Conclusion Planning and execution are critical for successful stable transformation, enhancing both property and horse habitat. Transforming Agricultural Barn Bays into Functional and Stylish Stables: Tips and ConsiderationsConverting agricultural barn bays into functional and stylish stables can be both a challenging and rewarding endeavor. Whether you seek to add comfort for your horses or a touch of flair to your property, understanding key considerations can make the project a success. Join us on a journey through stable transformation and discover the essential tips required for this rewarding project.Understanding the Basics of a Stable ConversionBefore wielding your hammer, it's crucial to assess the barn's structural integrity. Check for signs like rotted joists or water entry. Tackling these early can prevent costly repairs[5].Designing the StallsStall Size and LayoutThe layout of stalls determines both the well-being of the horses and the functionality of the stable. A minimum size of 10' x 10' is advisable, while 12' x 12' offers ample comfort for larger breeds[2].Stall FeaturesFor safety, ensure that stall walls meet the floor. Solid walls constructed from 2 x 8 tongue and groove wood withstand kicks effectively.Partition Options Solid Partitions: Perfect for reducing horse conflicts, though they lack ventilation. Vented Partitions: Allow airflow and some visibility, minimizing fights while enhancing ventilation. Pipe-Grill Partitions: Provide visibility and excellent airflow, but could potentially spark squabbles among the equines.Additional Features for a Stylish and Functional StableFeed and Tack RoomsA well-organized feed and tack room is vital for any stable. Utilize existing concrete slabs for these areas, cutting down on construction costs, as suggested by Exmark's Backyard Life[5].Wash RacksA wash rack ensures a safe place to groom and pamper your magnificent companions.Storage and OrganizationA clutter-free stable is essential. Adequate storage space keeps tools and supplies organized, fostering a clean environment for both humans and horses.Insulation and VentilationMaintain a cozy, moisture-free temperature with appropriate insulation and ventilation. Consider using bead board on outward-facing walls to boost insulation and safety by covering exposed nails[5].Budgeting and PlanningA decisive budget and robust plan are vital. Here are some key factors:Structural RepairsPrioritize assessing and fixing any structural problems, whether it's sagging beams or waterproofing the edifice[1].Material CostsCosts for materials such as wood for stalls and roofing can differ based on barn size and condition. Plan accordingly for your financial peace of mind[1].Permits and InspectionsEnsure compliance with local building codes, securing the required permits before unleashing your inner Mr. or Ms. Renovator[1].ConclusionTransforming barn bays into glamorous stables demands scrupulous planning and meticulous execution. By mastering these tips, you will craft an elegant, efficient habitat that not only enhances your property but provides a blissful home for your equine partners.Jodhpur Collection | Horse Riding Boot Collection | Horse Riding Gloves Collection | Horse Riding Socks Collection | Horse Treats And Gifts | Everyday Horse Vitamins & Supplements | Stable Rugs | Turnout Rugs | Horse Fly Protection```html```

Horse Sport Ireland is deeply saddened by the sudden and tragic passing of Eamonn P. Egan, who died following a farming accident at his home in Maynooth on Monday 2ndJune 2025. Eamonn was a long-standing and much-valued contributor to the Irish equestrian community, and in particular to Horse Sport Ireland, where he served with distinction in a number of governance roles. Following the publication of the Indecon Review, Eamonn was appointed Chair of the HSI Audit & Risk Committee, guiding the organisation through a period of critical transition. Most recently, he remained an active member of the committee, providing ongoing oversight and advice with characteristic diligence and generosity of spirit. He brought with him vast professional experience, a calm and principled approach, and a deep commitment to sport horse sector. Eamonn gave his time and expertise voluntarily, and always with a clear focus on doing what was right for []

Photo: Anne M. Eberhardt/The HorseLongeing horses is a common practice among trainers and owners in a variety of equestrian disciplines. It is often used when starting a young horse under saddle or advancing his training before beginning ridden work. However, its important to consider the biomechanics of how a horse turns when longeing and the practices effects on a young horses joint development. Charlie Barton, BVetMed, MS, Dipl. ACVS-LA, postdoctoral fellow at Colorado State University, in Fort Collins, describes the potential concerns associated with longeing a young horse and how owners and trainers can mitigate these risks in this excerpt from Ask TheHorse LiveThis podcast is an excerpt of ourAsk TheHorse Live Q&A, Caring for Young Horse Joints. Listen to thefull recording here.About the Expert: Charlotte Barton, BVetMed, MS, Dipl. ACVS-LACharlotte Barton, BVetMed, MS, Dipl. ACVS-LA, earned her veterinary degree from the Royal Veterinary College in London and, after completing two internships in the U.S., undertook a surgery residency at Colorado State University, in Fort Collins. After residency Barton stayed on at CSU as a postdoctoral fellow and her research interests include cartilage repair techniques and gene therapy.

Harry Meade is renowned for many things in the equestrian community his unquestionable ability on the cross-country field, his horsemanship, and his friendly manner. What many dont see is his unwavering commitment to the sport: the dedication and perseverance he brings to making eventing the very best it can be for the horse, the rider, and the supporter.This lifelong dedication has propelled Harry through the FEI rankings, earning him the title of World Number One! Its an accolade few can claim, and one that reflects his attention to detail, relentless work ethic, and drive to stay at the top of the game.Its a great honour to be world number one, and a real milestone. Itsparticularly rewarding for the wider team behind me they are so invested andtheir hard work and support has led to this, Im proud for all of them.When asked what is the key to staying at the top of the sport for so long, Harryreplied Producing horses in a softly-softly way, and making sure they enjoy theirjob. My focus is always each horses long-term development, both mentally andphysically with their longevity in mind. Im always learning, and the key toongoing success is being able to do it on all kinds of horses.Our owners and sponsors have fully bought in to our way of doing it, they havefaith that it works and are in it for the long term. My aim is to do them justice.Ive followed eventing since before I could walk and its the sport I love. Thereare still mountains in front of me that I want to climb, but for a brief moment in alife where you rarely stand still, well take a moment to pause and look back andfeel some pride in what everyone has achieved. Harry Meade, FEI World Number OneMore From Harry MeadeRedpost Rider Harry Meade Rises to FEI World Number One!Harry Meade is renowned for many things in the equestrian community his unquestionable ability on the cross-country field, his []XC Talk with Harry Meade at Bicton InternationalJoin Us for an Exclusive XC Talk with Harry Meade at Bicton Arena.Redpost Rider Harry Meade: Double placing at Kentucky Horse TrialsWhat a week we had in the US at the Defender Kentucky five-star. Mandy Grays Et Hop du Matz (Hoppy) []Redpost Rider Harry Meade: Success from MontelibrettiThe international eventing season is underway, and for Harry Meade and Grafennacht, it began with a long journey to Italy []A Christmas Update from Redpost Rider Harry MeadeCatch up with Harry Meade as his first set of horses return from their winter breaks and find out what the team has been up to this festive season.The post Redpost Rider Harry Meade Rises to FEI World Number One! first appeared on Redpost Equestrian Blog.

Great Britains Harry Meade has usurped USAs Boyd Martin to become world number one in the FEI eventing rankings for the first time in his career.The 41-year-old from Wiltshire has produced a string of impressive results at CCI5* level recently to help him ascend from third place in the rankings last month to take the top spot.Its a great honour to be world number one, and a real milestone, said Harry.Its particularly rewarding for the wider team behind me they are so invested, and their hard work and support has led to this. Im proud of all of them. I think my 11-year-old son is most excited about it though hes been following the rankings over the past year and was the first to call it!Harry Meade and Cavalier Crystal finished fourth at Mars Badminton Horse Trials last month. Consistent performancesHarrys recent strong run of form at the highest level of the sport included finishing third aboard Et Hop du Matz and fourth with Graffenacht at Lexington, and piloting Cavalier Crystal and Superstition into fourth and sixth places respectively at Badminton. At Burghley last year he was third with Cavalier Crystal and fourth aboard Annaghmore Valoner.Its about producing horses in a softly-softly way and making sure they [the horses] enjoy their job. My focus is always on each horses development, both mentally and physically, with their longevity in mind. Im always learning, and the key to ongoing success is being able to do it with all kinds of horses, said Harry.Our owners and sponsors have fully bought into our way of doing things. They have faith that it works and are in it for the long term. My aim is to do them justice.Harry leads the rankings on 588 points just ahead of compatriots Tom McEwen (577) and Mars Badminton Horse Trials champion Ros Canter (560). Last months world number one, Boyd Martin, has dropped to fifth while New Zealander Tim Price occupies fourth.Ive followed Eventing since before I could walk its the sport I love. There are still mountains in front of me that I want to climb, but for a brief moment in a life where you rarely stand still, well take a moment to pause, look back, and feel some pride in what everyone has achieved, said Harry.The full rankings can be viewedhere.Images Tim Wilkinson/Your Horse.Related contentA US rider tops FEI eventing rankings for first time in 21 years12 things you might not know about Olympian Laura CollettBadminton relaunches popular app with new interactive featuresNew pencil fence draws attention at British Eventing fixturePark where Seabiscuit won his last race is named as Olympic equestrian venueThe post British rider clinches top spot in FEI eventing rankings for first time appeared first on Your Horse.

Please see below the long list for the Longines FEI Jumping European Championships for Seniors, La Corua, Spain, 16th-20th July

Healthy, well-maintained hooves can remain strong and functional for decadessupporting horses from their first wobbly steps to their final years.While a nearly 30-year-old feral mare had very few teeth left, her hooves showed no signs of age whatsoever, says Dr. Chris Pollitt of the University of Queensland, in Australia. | Courtesy Dr. Chris PollittHellhole Mare was, actually, an angel of a horse. A cherished favorite among equine hoof scientists who study BrumbiesAustralias free-roaming feral horsesthe tough but gentle bay had given birth to at least 15 foals before becoming so thin and weak that researchers opted to humanely euthanize her.When the scientists, with heavy hearts, examined this beloved matriarch, they discovered skin and bones and toothless jaws, says Chris Pollitt, BVSc, PhD, head of the Australian Equine Laminitis Research Unit at the University of Queensland.One part of her body, however, showed no signs of age whatsoeverthe very foundation shed been standing on for nearly three decades. Her feet. Nicely beveled along the edges, strong heels, no laminitis, perfect, says Pollitt. Youd think theyd been trimmed by a professional.For Pollitt and his colleagues Hellhole Mare epitomizes the equine hoof. She was nearly 30 years old, but she had the feet of a 5-year-old, he says, having lived in what Pollitt considers an ideal environment for natural hoof care in an unridden and freeroaming horse. This tells us that if a horses foot is properly cared for, it will be perfect when the horse reaches the end of its life.Horse Hooves In UteroHooves form remarkably fast, becoming easily recognizable within 65 days of gestation, says Simon Curtis, PhD, FWCF, Hon-AssocRCVS, a farrier in Newmarket, U.K. Thats before limbs have bones, he says.To prevent uterine damage from fetal kicks, an unborn foal develops a gelatinous horn covering. This protective layer, called the eponychium or deciduous hoof, is derived in part from the sole and white line.The basic hoof structure fully forms before birth, Pollitt says. But because unborn foals hooves never bear weight, their suspensory apparatuswhere the coffin bone hangs from the front hoof wall via lamellar structuresremains underdeveloped. The lamellae, which help distribute weight and support hoof function, also do not fully develop before birth. In fact, he explains that because of that lack of weight-bearing, the embryonic hoofs first and second lamellae form a distinct crisscross pattern, positioned almost perpendicular to each other.The First Five MonthsHealthy foals usually make a wobbly stand on their hooves within the first hour of birth, and they shed their eponychium within a few hours. Pollitt says such weightbearing triggers immediate loading of the suspensory apparatus. Within a couple of days, lamellar structure angles already reflect their new loadingtaking on the oblique form they maintain for the rest of the foals life.To protect the uterus, gestating foals develop a gelatinous horn covering. | Courtesy Dr. Chris PollittMeanwhile, their tiny hooves start growing their first palmar processesa sort of hook at the back of the bone to which the cartilage is attachedwhich are completely absent at birth, Pollitt says.Despite these changes, though, foal hooves evolve in neither shape nor structure after birth. The original foal hoof is a certain sizesay, the size of a cupand it cant grow any bigger, he explains.Instead, new horn grows rapidly from the coronary band, at a rate of about 15 millimeters per month, to create a new, mature hoof that widens and flattens over approximately five months, says Curtis. In general, that leaves a clearly visible horizontal birthmark line on the descending horn.This creates a sort of inverse cone by three or four months of age, with greater width at the coronary band than the bottom, he explains. Thats, in part, because the foals hoof wall thickens more than threefold as it grows from the top down.Meanwhile, other structures inside the footbones and lamellar attachments, for examplemust grow along with the horse, Pollitt adds. Lots of things are happening inside the hoof capsule after birth, he says. And all of these changes have to occur in synchrony, in a coordinated fashion.In general, this runs remarkably smoothly, he says. Its marvelous to consider whatand how manythings could go wrong, he explains. Its like a miracle.Still, things can go wrong, especially when conditions arent favorable to good hoof growth. Selective breeding for big bodies and small hooves, for example, can negatively impact hoof development. Rigid or oversoft terrains can as well, as the researchers have seen in feral horses.The first few months also represent the sweet spot for club foot development. Typically, hoof horn at the heel grows faster than at the toe, which occurs especially when foals favor walking on their toes, Curtis adds. Club feet, characterized by an upright shape, long, contracted heels, and a pronounced or bulging coronary band, can sometimes go unnoticed for months or years. In his research, however, he has found they usually appear between 20 and 110 days.In domestic settings these early months represent a critical time for skilled, frequent trimming to prevent club feet, angular deformities, and other distortions, Pollitt says.The Rest of the First YearAs foals continue to grow, their hooves undergo significant changes as they gradually develop into the familiar adult form.Suddenly we see this hoof taking on the shape that we associate with hooveswhich is now a truncated, oblique cone, that leans slightly backward, Curtis explains.The new, mature hoof structure usually lasts the rest of horses lives, Pollitt says.Minor tweaks do continue. Horn growth, for example, gradually slows to around 9 millimeters per month by the horses first birthday, Curtis says.Loading patternswhich start as weanlings but become more prominent as the horses weight increasesalso come into further play, he says. Through pressure readings he found horses dont stand like table legs but, rather, favor inner (toward their midline) versus outer hoof-wall loading.Suspecting that loading was impacting natural hoof growth patterns, Curtis sought to separate the changes horses are preprogrammed to experience versus those in response to uneven loading. He realized the horn compresses under the horses weight. That means even if the hoof grows at the same rate across the coronary band, it ends up seeming shorter or longer in different parts of the hoof due to getting smashed.As a result, the outer angles from the sole to the coronary band appear more oblique, or slanted, and give the impression that outer walls grow faster.Farriers recognize this, and they say it grows more hoof on the outside, he says. But its not because of the production of horn cells; its because of the compression.Dorsal (front wall) angles also change in the first year at a rate of about one degree per month until about 10 months of age, Curtis says. So, theres an extraordinary change in angle.Hooves During the Rest of LifeOnce a hoof has become matureat around 10 months of ageit changes very little in healthy horses, says Pollitt.My feeling is that horses hooves, once grown and once properly cared for and in the right environment, will virtually outlive the horse, he says.A lot of people think that they ageand theyll tell you that they do, and theyll supply anecdotal evidence to support that, he adds. But my experience is that theyre a wonderful piece of evolution that serves the horse well throughout its life.Even so, minor natural changes occur, Curtis says. For example, hoof wall thickness increases to about 9.5 millimeters in an adult Thoroughbred, or around 11 millimeters in other breeds. And horn growth slows to about 6 millimeters per month for adults and even to 3 millimeters per month for seniors.Researchers on an ongoing pilot study, meanwhile, seem to have confirmed what many farriers have long suspectedthat with age, hoof angles continue to mildly flatten compared to the ground, Curtis says.Still, its also possible older horses simply have changing hoof angles due to evolving trimming techniques, especially as owners change farriers, Pollitt says.Despite these minor changes, though, our sources say owners often perceive age-related changes in their horses hooves. Its such a rarity that farriers find horses with symmetrical hooves, Curtis says, and that might be in large part due to unnatural loading rather than age itself.Age-Related ConditionsOlder horses could suffer from poor hoof health simply because they might receive less care than their younger counterparts. | Getty imagesWhile hooves can remain strong over time, they are still vulnerable to age-related diseases and other conditions.Many older horses suffer from low-grade laminitis, Curtis says. It is often due to excess nutrients, which weaken the laminae by altering the endocrine system, usually in combination with obesity. Besides contributing to rotation or sinking of the coffin bone within the hoof, that excess weight causes compression, especially along the sole.Horses with age-related insulin resistanceespecially related to pituitary pars intermedia dysfunction (PPID, equine Cushings disease) and/or obesitycan have chronic laminitic changes, Pollitt says.That could mean they have a healthy back half of the foot but compression and changes in blood supply to the front half, Curtis says. These issues combined with a slight change in hoof angle could make the problem even more pronounced.As a horse ages, you might notice some changes in its hoof that are more related to age-related health conditions, such as Cushings (PPID), rather than changes in the hoof due to older age, says Shannon Pratt-Phillips, PhD, a professor of equine nutrition in North Carolina State Universitys Department of Animal Science, in Raleigh. Good nutrition will still be important to support hoof health even with confounding factors such as Cushings or insulin dysregulation.Beyond endocrine disorders, geriatric horses simply have more years of impact on their feetmeaning greater chances of injury, such as to the coronary band, Curtis says. Older horses definitely tend to have more problems, but I think its more a cumulative effect, he explains. Theres not a single problem thats more a 20-year-old hoof compared to a 5-year-old hoof.Other issues might stem from a lifetime of environmental challengessuch as feral New Zealand horses navigating through rough terrainrather than the aging itself, Pollitt says.Likewise, aging, retired domestic horses could suffer from poor hoof health simply because they might receive less hoof care, he explains.A lot of people neglect their old horses, he says. Of course, if the environment is soft underfoot, theyll develop long cracks, and they might be euthanized because of the condition of their feet. And (owners) say theyre an old horse with an old foot. But I dont believe that, intrinsically, theres aging about the hoof.Older horses might also experience nutritional and environmental deficits due to their decreasing social rank, says Pratt-Phillips.They end up standing in the mud all the time, or not getting their full ration, because the higher-ranking horses take their place, she explains.Of course, the horse is old, and there will be the assumption that its getting old and, so, the hoof is falling away, Pollitt says. But in my experience many horses reach old age with hooves that are the same as when they were 3 years old.Take-Home MessageHooves are phenomenal structures built to last a horses lifetime. Even so, they experience major changes in shape and structure through the first year out of the womb, while they adjust to bearing the weight of the foal. Once mature, healthy and properly maintained horse hooves can remain strong and functional throughout an animals lifeprovided equine veterinarians and horse owners manage all age-related diseases.This article is from the Older Horse 2025 issue ofThe Horse: Your Guide to Equine Health Care. We at The Horse work to provide you with the latest and most reliable news and information on equine health, care, management, and welfare through our magazine and TheHorse.com. Your subscription helps The Horse continue to offer this vital resource to horse owners of all breeds, disciplines, and experience levels. To access current issues included in your subscription, please sign in to theAppleorGoogleapps ORclick herefor the desktop version.

A herd of donkeys visited The Green Howards Museum in Richmond last week to show their support for theAnimal Allies:Discover the Silent Partners of the Armed Forcesexhibition which explores the contributions animals have made in military operations, not just in active duty but by providing companionship, comfort and emotional support.The team of six standard sized and one miniature Mediterranean donkey,who were from Long Ears Donkey Centre near Hartlepool, made plenty of friends as they met members of the public in Richmond square last Friday (30 May).The donkeys visit further supported a key part of the exhibition, a cascade of purple poppies commemorating the roles played by animals and birds in war.The Donkey Breed Society were originally gifted the crocheted poppies by a group of makers from Richmond. The poppies were subsequently combined with some additional artefacts to create an exhibition.The Richmond Purple Poppies Ladies with (l) Allison Roberts Chair of the Donkey Breed Society Northern Region.Shining a light on the work of donkeysWe express grateful thanks to theGreen Howards Museum for embracing the ethos of the DBS Tour and for incorporating the Poppies, so beautifully, in the Animal Allies Exhibition, said Allison Roberts, chair of the Donkey Breed Societys Northern Region.It is very important that these animals are remembered. They experienced much horror and yet their contributions have assisted in giving us the democracy we enjoy today. We are very grateful to all the Museums that have welcomed the tour to date.Also in attendance last week was author Gregory Harris who was signing copies of his childrens books. The Billy Burro series area trilogy based on the adventures of a young donkey from Blackpool who likes to help others.Visit the exhibitionAnimal Allies: Discover the Silent Partners of the Armed Forcesexhibition is on display at The Green Howards Museum until the end of the year, but it only features the Richmond Purple Poppies until Saturday 7 June.The Poppies will then take up temporary residence at REME Museum in Lyneham, Wiltshire.The Green Howards Museum is open Monday to Saturday from 10.00am-4.30pm, with last entry at 4.00pm. Entry to the exhibition is included with general admission to the museum.Richmond Police say hello to the donkeys.Images the Donkey Breed Society.Related contentRescue donkeys help create ideal habitat for rare fungi, flora and faunaNew enrichment paddock for some of The Donkey Sanctuarys smallest residentsThe Donkey Sanctuary rolls out vaccination programmes to prevent rabiesProtest outside Amazon HQ calls for sale of donkey skin products to be bannedThe post Donkeys on hand to support Yorkshire museum exhibition appeared first on Your Horse.