A Shetland pony has been put to sleep after being found tied to a fence in a car park in Sidcup with a deep wound caused by a tight-fitting headcollar.The RSPCA is appealing for more information about the chestnut mare, who is thought to be an older pony in her teenage years. Investigators believe she was deliberately abandoned in the south-east London car park. The pony was discovered by members of the public on Monday (9 June).It was incredibly sad to find this poor pony in such a bad way, said RSPCA animal rescue officer Adam Tasker.When I arrived, officers from Kent Police had untied the pony and provided her with some water, but it was clear that the wound to her head caused by the tight-fitting headcollar was very severe.We had no doubt she was in a lot of pain. It was also clear she was very underweight too.She couldnt be savedThe pony was examined on site by an equine vet, who confirmed the neck wound was very deep and infected with maggots.They also discovered further wounds to her legs and hooves, which were causing the mare pain.She had an abnormally high heart rate, likely due to the infection, and the vet found that the pony had prominent mobility issues concerning her back legs. As a result, the vet concluded that the pony was suffering and she was put to sleep.Its really sad that this ponys wounds and condition were so severe that she couldnt be saved, added Adam. We fear someone deliberately left her tied to the fence in the car park, which is such a sad thing to do to an already suffering pony.Its never okay to abandon an animalLast year, the RSPCA attended 22,503 incidents involving an abandoned animal across England and Wales.The cost of veterinary care as well as disposing of a horses body means those that are seriously ill or dead are abandoned.Its never okay to abandon an animal, and I am keen to hear from anyone with more information about how this pony ended up like this, said Adam.Anyone with information can contact the RSPCA inspectorate appeal line in confidence by calling 0300 123 8018.Further readingMiracle foal born to mare saved as part of Trafficked 20A ticking time bomb: horse meat entering the food chain is a real danger, experts warnRevolutionary equine infectious respiratory disease test unveiledPony found abandoned in shipping container wins showing ticket to Your Horse LiveThe post Tragic end for elderly pony found tied to a fence in a car park appeared first on Your Horse.

Aspect Details Understanding Walk Pirouettes Executed during a collected walk, involving forelegs creating an arc around stationary hindquarters maintaining a four-beat gait with a slight bend. Techniques for Riding Walk Pirouettes Preparation: Collect walk prior to the turn with shoulder-in position. Weight and Balance: Weight slightly towards inside seat and stirrup. Leg and Rein Aids: Inside leg maintains bend, outside rein guides neck. Control with Outside Rein and Leg: Maintain neck bend, prevent hindquarters splaying. Execution and Completion: Straighten horse post-turn, propel forward. Challenges in Mastering Walk Pirouettes Coordination and Balance: Requires synchronized coordination. Horse Training: Gradually build up from broader to compact movements. Rider Experience: Experience in shoulder-in and half-pass is essential. Practical Tips for Overcoming Challenges Forward and Sideways Steps: Alternate practices for smooth transitions. Shoulder-In and Half-Pass: Incorporate for better flexibility and bending. Visualization: Use visual aids to understand hind leg engagement. Patience and Consistency: Gradually refine pirouette complexity. Conclusion Mastering walk pirouettes testifies to horse-rider communication. Apply techniques and practice consistently to achieve precision. Mastering Walk Pirouettes: Techniques and Challenges in Equestrian Training Walk pirouettes in dressage are akin to swirling artwork on horsebacka dance of grace and precision where the equine athlete and rider must move in harmonious coordination. These movements involve the horse's forehand motion rotating around its hindquarters, demanding careful execution and skill. While mastering walk pirouettes elevates any dressage performance to an art form, the techniques and challenges inherent in this movement provide a rigorous test for even veteran riders. Understanding Walk Pirouettes A walk pirouette is essentially executed during a collected walk, where the horse's forelegs create an arc around the stationary hindquarters. The inside hind leg serves as a pivotal anchor, maintaining a controlled rhythm while turning. This movement retains a decisive four-beat gait with a marginal internal bend, creating a visually striking effect for spectators and judges alike. Techniques for Riding Walk Pirouettes Preparation Begin by collecting the walk a few steps before initiating the turn, steering the horse into a shoulder-in position. This pre-emptive alignment of the shoulders sets the stage for a flawless pirouette initiation. Weight and Balance Directed weight slightly towards the inside seat bone and stirrup facilitates better stability and guidance during the pirouette, keeping the movement fluid and balanced. Leg and Rein Aids Your inside leg is crucial in maintaining the bend and providing propulsion. Simultaneously, gently guide your hands in the pirouettes direction, leveraging the outside rein against the horse's neck while opening the inside rein to steer direction. Control with Outside Rein and Leg Maintain the neck's bend and regulate the walk's collected nature with the outside rein. Ensure the body stays aligned by positioning the outside leg slightly behind the girth to deter the hindquarters from splaying out. Execution and Completion Post completion of the turn, straighten the horse and propel forward to preserve balance and rhythm. It's vital to ensure the return to a straight line is as polished as the pirouette itself. Challenges in Mastering Walk Pirouettes Coordination and Balance Successful pirouettes depend heavily on well-synchronized coordination between rider and horse. Any slight misalignment can compromise rhythm and balance, leading to an erratic or failed attempt. Horse Training Training a horse to perform this advanced move entails immense patience and a gradual build-up from broader turns towards more compact movements once comfort and skill levels heighten. Rider Experience Experience in supplementary dressage techniques, like shoulder-in and half-pass, is indispensable for riders aiming to master walk pirouettes. These elemental movements build agility and responsiveness in both horse and rider[source]. Practical Tips for Overcoming Challenges Forward and Sideways Steps Implement alternating practices of moving both forward and sideways. This method conditions the horse's capacity to transition smoothly between movements, preparing it for the complexity of the pirouette[source]. Shoulder-In and Half-Pass Regularly incorporating shoulder-in and half-pass exercises will not only enhance flexibility but allow the horse to bend with greater ease, crucial for executing tighter pirouettes effectively [source]. Visualization Visual aids, like imagining the horse slightly rearing during the pirouette, can bolster understanding of the lift required from the hind legs, strengthening this engagement training. Patience and Consistency Persistently refining the pirouette's complexity from broad arcs to more compact turns will foster confidence and capability in your horse. Patience is your greatest ally in this intricate dance of dressage performance. Conclusion Mastering walk pirouettes is more than an equestrian skillit's a testament to the bond and communication between horse and rider. Through structured techniques and the patience of repeated practice, any dressage enthusiast can overcome the hurdles this movement presents. By integrating these strategies into your training regimen, the elegance and precision of coveted walk pirouettes are well within reach. 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Oysters and mollusks form pearls as a protective reaction to irritants, like a parasite or grain of sand invading their shells. A similar concept is at work with enterolith formation in the horse, but instead of a valuable pearl, the end result may lead to colic or surgery.Enteroliths are mineralized intestinal stones that sometimes form within the horses colon. The condition can become serious if a stone gets too large to pass through the digestive tract. When an enterolith causes obstruction, surgical removal is the only solution to avoid a fatal gastrointestinal rupture.It takes at least a yearbut more likely several yearsfor an enterolith to become large enough to form an obstruction.A large enterolith removed during surgery after a blockage was discovered. Photo by Diana Hassel, DVMThe process under which enteroliths gradually form is known as enterolithiasis.Whats Causes Enteroliths in Horses?Like a pearl, an enterolith starts by forming around something. This small, indigestible object could be a pebble, coin, piece of rubber or wire, or even a piece of baling twine, rope, or fabric the horse has swallowed.Mineral salts in the horses intestine or colon sometimes form around the object. These struvite crystals are comprised mainly of magnesium, ammonium and phosphate.To support this struvite mineralization, there must be the correct environment within the colon, which includes a higher pH/more alkaline colonic contents, combined with a rich combination of minerals.Diets high in alfalfa hay are most likely to create this optimal environment for mineralization. Alfalfa is a forage with a relatively high buffering capacity compared with other forages, thus it contributes to the more alkaline colonic environment needed for enterolith formation, says Diana M. Hassel, DVM, Ph.D., Dipl ACVS, a colic surgeon at Colorado State University Veterinary Teaching Hospital and professor in the Department of Clinical Services. The other big contributing factor is likely the mineral content in alfalfa. Magnesium has been implicated, and it is particularly high in alfalfa grown in certain areas versus others.Diets high in alfalfa hay are most likely to cause enterolith formation. Photo by Debra Lawrence/Adobe StockSome studies have recognized higher magnesium and other minerals in the water in regions of the country where enterolithiasis is more common.The enterolith that forms around a hard object like a pebble, coin, or wire can be round, spherical, triangular, or flat in shape. Enteroliths can vary in size from as small as a walnut to larger than a grapefruit. Among the most dangerous are those that are baseball-sized.When the horse swallows a soft foreign body like baling twine, it can become mineralized, resulting in the formation of hundreds of tiny enteroliths along the piece of twine.Risk FactorsRisk factors for enterolith formation include:Geographical regionDiet high in alfalfaStall confinementSibling that developed the conditionCalifornia, Texas, Florida and Arizona are the primary areas for enterolithiasis in the U.S. This may be related to minerals in the soil, and/or the fact that many horses in these states eat a high or all-alfalfa diet.Its not known whether its the water, the soil, the alfalfa itself, or simply the amount of alfalfa owners feed in these regions that makes these areas at higher risk, notes Hassel.Within the state of California, there are areas with very few enterolith cases, even when alfalfa is fed frequently, and other areas where [cases are] commonly found.Hassel points out that stall confinement and diets high in alfalfa are the only repeatably documented risk factors for enterolithiasis, with high alfalfa diets being the most impactful.Alfalfa is higher in protein than most other forages, and this may provide a source of nitrogen for the ammonium content in enterolithsand contribute to the higher pH in the colon, says Hassel.She notes that the roles of phosphorus and other minerals, such as calcium and zinc, are not well established.Studies have shown that Arabians and Morgans are most commonly affected, but Hassel notes that no breeds are immune to developing enteroliths. Any breed may be affected when rich alfalfa hay is fed.Interestingly, the condition is found in mares more often than in male horses.Watch for Signs of Enteroliths in Your HorseClinical signs of enterolithiasis can include:Recurrent bouts of colic/abdominal pain Depression/lethargyLoose stoolChange in behavior/crankinessWeight lossResentment when girth is tightenedReduced performanceReluctance to go downhill or jumpOn occasion, a horse will pass small enteroliths in manure. If you see this happen, its a red flag that should not be ignored. This is an indication there may also be a larger stone that cant pass.Pay attention when cleaning the stall; a small enterolith passed in the manure will be hard as a rock.Any time a horse passes a small enterolith, Hassel strongly recommends making an appointment at a veterinary referral facility to have abdominal radiographs performed.If there are no large enteroliths present (all are smaller), it may be possible to manage these cases long-term without surgery, says Hassel.If larger enteroliths are present, surgical management on an elective basis is a lot less risky and less expensive than an emergency colic surgery.An abdominal radiograph showing the presence of a large enterolith. Photo by Diana Hassel, DVMSurgical ResolutionWhen abdominal radiographs reveal the presence of an enterolith too large to pass through the GI tract, surgery is the only solution.This is not a wait and see situation. Without surgery to remove the obstructing enterolith, the horses intestine can rupture, causing a painful death.Fortunately, when the horse is in good condition and without other issues, surgery for enterolith removal has a high success rate.Reducing Risk of EnterolithsHorse owners can be proactive and lower their horses risk of forming enteroliths.The most critical advice is to reduce the quantity of alfalfa fed to 50 percent or less of the diet, says Hassel. If the horse is at high risk (for example, already had an enterolith removed), I would recommend taking that horse off alfalfa entirely.Keep in mind that if your horse has an enterolith and you change his diet to a different hay, that may contribute to movement of the stone downstream in the gastrointestinal tract, resulting in obstructive colic, she adds.Hassel encourages any owner who suspects their horse has an enterolith to first have abdominal radiographs done before making diet changes.Other preventative management techniques include:Daily access to pasture/turnoutKeeping hay and feed free of foreign objectsFeeding small amounts of grain twice daily with a half-cup of apple cider vinegar (ACV) to attempt to decrease pH level in the gutAlthough ACV has a small but reliable impact on decreasing pH in the gut, it cant dissolve an enterolith that has already formed.Hassel finds that horses who regularly graze on pasture are at lower risk for developing obstructive enteroliths.Grazing is a good preventative measure if your horse has risk factors for enterolith formation. Photo by FastHorsePhotography/Adobe StockIf grazing is not an option, its beneficial to keep hay available throughout the day using a slow feeder so the horse doesnt go for many hours with an empty gut.Encourage water consumption by ensuring clean, cool water is available 24/7. Electrolytes can help promote drinking when horses consume less water during cool weather.Because enteroliths form around small objects the horse has swallowed, keep feed areas free of debris. If you use rubber mats, sweep them daily. Make it a routine to clean hay bunks and feed bins frequently.Careful management, taking proactive measures, and being observant can protect most horses from enterolithiasis. This article about enteroliths in horses appeared in the May 2024 issue of Horse Illustratedmagazine.Click here to subscribe!The post Enteroliths in Horses appeared first on Horse Illustrated Magazine.

Discovering that the bridleway you want to ride on is blocked is a nuisance and a sure way to put an end to enjoyable hacking with your horse. If your right of way is obstructed you should first report it to your local authority (council). It is their responsibility to maintain off-road routes to a safe standard.A quick search on your local authoritys website will tell you how to report the blocked bridleway it may be an online form to fill in, or an email address or telephone number to use.Remember that the local authority for the bridleway may not be the same as for your house.The British Horse Society (BHS) recommends that you report the problem even if you think that someone else already has, as this helps the relevant authority get a clear indication of demand so that they can prioritise resources.We advise that you provide details of the route and the location on the route where you encountered the problem, as well as a clear description of the issue.Marking the location on a map, such as Google Maps (or you could use What3Words to pinpoint the exact location Ed), is useful too.I would also urge you to take a photo of the obstruction if possible.It can take up to at least a month for authorities to respond to a report, although some issues will have higher priority if there are safety implications or if they are on a busy route.You can also contact your local BHS access field officer or volunteer access and bridleway officer, who will be on hand to help.For support in your local area, you can contact the access team at the BHS via the email address below. Defining an obstructionRemember that an obstruction on a bridleway is a hindrance that prevents or impedes its lawful use. This can include barriers like locked gates, overgrown vegetation, or encroaching fences.Partially blocked pathsEven if only a part of the path is blocked, it is still considered an obstruction, as the public has the right to use the full width of the way. So make sure you report these too.Non-physical blocksNon-physical obstructions, such as intimidating notices or threatening animals, also qualify and should be reported in the same way.You can let the BHS know about any issues by reporting it here.Main image ShutterstockRelated contentHow to choose the best hat camera for hackingWhat3words credited with saving riders livesWhy rider posture when hacking is more important than you might thinkYou wont believe the strange things these riders saw while hacking!The post This is what you need to do if you find a blocked bridleway appeared first on Your Horse.

Section Key Points Introduction to Overtracking in Dressage Understanding overtracking is crucial for enhancing dressage performance; occurs when hind legs step past front leg imprints. What Overtracking Indicates Overtracking suggests engagement and balance of hindquarters; could indicate kinematic imbalances if improperly executed. Spotting Overtracking: The Visual Clues Focus on rhythm and tempo, recognizing balance and stride through footprints left during the walk. Dressage Scores: The Overtracking Impact Proper hind leg engagement enhances scores; imbalance can negatively affect movement quality and dressage ratings. Common Judges Remarks on Overtracking Comments such as "Needs more energy and impulsion" indicate issues with hindquarter utilization and balance. Tactics for Addressing Overtracking Disorders Proper engagement, balance, and positioning exercises enhance performance; targeted drills refine movement quality. Conclusion: The Art of Overcoming Overtracking Identifying weaknesses and investing in specialized training turns challenges into triumphs, leading to spectacular performances. Understanding Overtracking: What Your Dressage Scores Are Telling You Introduction to Overtracking in Dressage In the elegant world of dressage, the horse's movement speaks volumes about its training and fitness. Among the critical analyses is overtracking a term that may strike anxiety in beginners and exhilaration in seasoned riders. Simply put, overtracking occurs when a horse's hind legs step past the imprint left by its front legs. Understanding this phenomenon is essential for dissecting dressage scores and enhancing performance. What Overtracking Indicates Overtracking typically hints at the engagement and balance of a horse's hindquarters. Ideally, it indicates efficient kinematics; however, it isnt always a marker of perfection. In some horses, overtracking arises from improper foreleg push-off, leading to kinematic imbalances that accentuate front-leg movement while the hindquarters lag. Spotting Overtracking: The Visual Clues To spot overtracking, focus on the movement's rhythm. An overtracking horse will leave hind footprints that overtake the front footprints during the walk. While this may signal a hauntingly beautiful gait, recognizing balance and tempo hints at the real picture of a horse's stride. Dressage Scores: The Overtracking Impact Balance and Engagement When horses overtrack due to proper engagement, dressage scores may soar. With excellent hind leg engagement, horses demonstrate enhanced balance and impulsion. This on-point engagement reflects positive scores, though kinematic shortfalls could bruise your scores if overtracking comes with imbalance. Movement Quality Judges prioritize smooth, precise movement. Imbalance-induced overtracking can taint quality movement scores. Thus, ensuring that overtracking accompanies seamless kinematics determines high ratings. Common Judges Remarks on Overtracking Seasoned judges may echo phrases such as "Needs more energy and impulsion" or "On forehand". These comments pinpoint overtracking issues that tie into subpar hindquarter utilization. Tune in to such remarks as they elucidate balance and engagement flaws that may require intervention. Tactics for Addressing Overtracking Disorders Ensuring Proper Engagement Achieving the sweet spot of hindquarter engagement involves training designed to instill naturally balanced movement. Exercises such as lateral movements fine-tune engagement, minimizing unnecessary overtracking. Mastering Balance and Positioning Maintaining a horse's natural tempo by positioning exercises can correct the tendency of falling "on the forehand." The art of dressage hinges on mastering the harmony between balance and free-flowing stride. Instrumental Training Techniques Incorporating specific drills, from mastering diagonals to precise lateral exercises, amplifies the horse's movement quality and engagement finesse. Such regime solidifies the kinesthetic blueprint, refining form with each gallop. Conclusion: The Art of Overcoming Overtracking Comprehending the subtleties of overtracking provides the keys to boost dressage performance. By identifying weaknesses, addressing balance, and investing in specialized training, riders transform potential pitfalls into triumph. Seeking guidance from experienced trainers, dressage horses transcend common hurdles to deliver spectacular performances on the grand stage. ```html```

Horse Sport Ireland is proud to announce that it has been awarded 30,000 under the Sport Ireland Women in Sport Programme 2025 to deliver a landmark initiative: Breaking Barriers: Irelands First Female FEI Course Design Pathway. This award forms part of the national 4million investment in womens sport announced by Minister for Culture, Communications and Sport, Patrick ODonovan T.D., and Minister of State for Sport and Postal Policy, Charlie McConalogue T.D., and administered by Sport Ireland. The investment aims to increase female participation, visibility, and leadership across all areas of Irish sport. Set to launch in the autumn, the Breaking Barriers programme reflects Horse Sport Irelands belief that women belong in technical and leadership roles in equestrian sport. This initiative aims to change long-standing perceptions by building a clear and credible pathway for women to step into course design, a professional, creative, and influential role that plays a central part []