In performance horses excessive sweating without replenishment usually causes magnesium deficiency, so supplementing with a quality electrolyte might be appropriate. | Alexandra BeckstettQ: How do different forms of magnesium (e.g., magnesium oxide vs. magnesium sulfate) compare in terms of bioavailability and efficacy in managing stress or muscle tension in performance horses?A: Magnesium is a macromineral involved in various bodily functions in horses. It contributes to bone crystalline structure and plays a key role in cellular and metabolic processes such as energy production and muscle contraction. Additionally, magnesium supports neurotransmitter and receptor function. Researchers studying various species, including horses, have linked magnesium deficiency to cellular membrane destabilization and neurological impairment. Muscle and nervous system component malfunction could cause horses to exhibit signs of nervousness, irritability, or increased sensitivity to unfamiliar situations.Daily Magnesium Requirement for HorsesHorses absorb magnesium in both the small and large intestine, with the small intestine serving as the primary site of absorption. According to the National Research Council (2007), the estimated magnesium requirement for a 1,100-pound horse at maintenance is 15 milligrams/kilogram body weight or 7.5 grams per day. Most horses obtain magnesium from forage and feedstuffs. However, in certain cases, these ingredients magnesium content might not meet dietary needs. For instance, working horses need 1.5 to 2 times more magnesium than maintenance horses primarily due to losses through sweat. In this case, adding a daily, well balanced electrolyte supplement is appropriate. Growing horses, especially young foals, and lactating mares also have higher magnesium needs. Utilizing growth feeds formulated specifically for these classes of horses is an excellent way to ensure requirements are being met.Adding Magnesium to Your Horses DietYou can add magnesium to your horses diet through supplementation using both inorganic and organic forms, which all vary in bioavailability and concentration. Researchers have shown inorganic forms have an absorption rate of approximately 70% in horses. Horse owners commonly use inorganic sources, such as magnesium oxide, due to cost-effectiveness and availability. Horses do not absorb excess dietary magnesium oxide, making it difficult for them to overdose on the macromineral. However, nutritionists do not recommend magnesium sulfate (Epsom salt) for daily use in horses due to its laxative effect. Researchers believe that organic magnesium, which is bound to another molecule such as an amino acid, may have higher absorption rates than inorganic forms, but these claims are primarily based on studies in humans and rodents.While absorption remains important, consider the concentration of magnesium in each form. For instance, inorganic magnesium oxide contains approximately 60% magnesium by atomic weight and has a 70% absorption rate. Therefore, for a horse to absorb 30 mg of magnesium, he would need to consume 72 mg of magnesium oxide. In comparison magnesium aspartate hydrochloride, an organic form, is approximately 10% magnesium by atomic weight. Even if magnesium aspartate hydrochloride were 100% absorbable, the horse would have to consume 300 mg of it to get the same 30 mg of magnesium.To date no well-designed studies prove magnesium supplementation beyond requirements reduces muscle tension or stress in horses. I suspect the anecdotal evidence suggesting extra magnesium reduces muscle excitability might be due to resolving an existing suboptimal magnesium status.Take-Home MessageEnsure your horses daily magnesium needs are met by feeding a fortified, well-balanced diet appropriate for his life stage and workload. Check the tag on your concentrate or ration balancer for magnesium inclusion because the manufacturer might not have added it. In performance horses excessive sweating without replenishment usually causes magnesium deficiency, so supplementing with a quality electrolyte might be appropriate. If you are unsure about your horses magnesium needs, work with a qualified equine nutritionist.Do you have an equine nutrition question? Do you have an equine nutrition question? The Horses editors want to hear from you! Submit your question via the form below. Name(Required) First Last Email(Required) Submit your equine nutrition below!(Required)CAPTCHA

Ocala, FL World Equestrian Center Ocala (WEC) is pleased to announce that Dover Saddlery will be opening a flagship store in the new luxury outdoor shopping venue, The Shoppes Off 80th in 2026. Situated adjacent to The Riding Academy Hotel and The Equestrian Manor, The Shoppes Off 80th will effectively double the propertys existing retail with 28 new units. Visitors and guests will[...]Read MoreThe post World Equestrian Center Ocala Announces Dover Saddlery Flagship Store at The Shoppes Off 80th appeared first on World Equestrian Center.

One horse at the Belmont Park Racetrack in Nassau County, New York, was recently confirmed positive for strangles. Forty-eight horses are potentially exposed, and Barn 28 is under quarantine.EDCC Health Watch is an Equine Network marketing program that utilizes information from the Equine Disease Communication Center (EDCC) to create and disseminate verified equine disease reports. TheEDCCis an independent nonprofit organization that is supported by industry donations in order to provide open access to infectious disease information.About StranglesStranglesin horses is an infection caused byStreptococcus equisubspeciesequiand spread through direct contact with other equids or contaminated surfaces. Horses that arent showing clinical signs can harbor and spread the bacteria, and recovered horses remain contagious for at least six weeks, with the potential to cause outbreaks long-term.Infected horses can exhibit a variety of clinical signs:FeverSwollen and/or abscessed lymph nodesNasal dischargeCoughing or wheezingMuscle swellingDifficulty swallowingVeterinarians diagnose horses using polymerase chain reaction (PCR) testing with either a nasal swab, wash, or an abscess sample, and they treat most cases based on clinical signs, implementing antibiotics for severe cases. Overuse of antibiotics can prevent an infected horse from developing immunity. Most horses make a full recovery in three to four weeks.A vaccine is available but not always effective. Biosecurity measures of quarantining new horses at a facility and maintaining high standards of hygiene and disinfecting surfaces can helplower the risk of outbreakorcontain one when it occurs.

Two horses at a farm in Teton County, Wyoming, recently tested positive for equine herpesvirus-1 (EHV-1). The horses are under quarantine.EDCC Health Watch is an Equine Network marketing program that utilizes information from the Equine Disease Communication Center (EDCC) to create and disseminate verified equine disease reports. TheEDCCis an independent nonprofit organization that is supported by industry donations in order to provide open access to infectious disease information.EHV 101Herpesvirus is highly contagious among horses and can cause a variety of ailments in equids, including rhinopneumonitis (a respiratory disease usually found in young horses), abortion in broodmares, and EHM.In many horses, the first or only sign of EHV-1 infection is fever, which can go undetected.In addition to fever, other common signs of EHV-1 infection in young horses include cough, decreased appetite, depression, and a nasal discharge. Pregnant mares typically show no signs of infection before they abort, and abortions usually occur late in gestation (around eight months) but can be earlier. Abortions can occur anywhere from two weeks to several months following infection with EHV-1.Horses with EHM usually have a fever at the onset of the disease and might show signs of a respiratory infection. A few days later, neurologic signs such as ataxia (incoordination), weakness or paralysis of the fore- and hind limbs, urine retention and dribbling, loss of tail tone, and recumbency (inability to rise) develop.Herpesvirus is easily spread by nose-to-nose or close contact with an infectious horse; sharing contaminated equipment including bits, buckets, and towels; or clothing, hands, or equipment of people who have recently had contact with an infectious horse.Routine biosecurity measures, including hygiene and basic cleaning and disinfection practices, should be in place at all times to help prevent disease spread.Current EHV-1 vaccines might reduce viral shedding but are not protective against the neurologic form of the disease. Implementing routine biosecurity practices is the best way to minimize viral spread, and the best method of disease control is disease prevention.

A horses diet should provide the majority of the antioxidants they need. | The Horse StaffOxidation occurs naturally in the horses body as it breaks down nutrients. This essential process generates reactive oxygen speciesbetter known as free radicalsthat can cause cellular damage. Supporting the horses antioxidant defenses helps maintain their long-term health and performance.Antioxidants for Overall Horse HealthAntioxidants protect cells from damage caused by oxidative stress. Oxidation occurs when nutrients are broken down and converted to energy, and this process is constantly occurring in the horses body, says Kelly Vineyard, PhD, equine nutritionist and owner of EquiVine PhD Nutrition, based in Gainesville, Florida. Oxidation rates increase as energy needs increase, such as during exercise, growth, pregnancy, and anytime the body is stressed.Because oxidation doesnt occur perfectly, it produces free radicalsmolecules with unpaired electrons that seek to stabilize by binding to other cells. In the process these radicals damage muscle, immune, and nerve tissue.Meanwhile, antioxidants neutralize the free radicals, and the horse needs a steady supply of them. Horses can synthesize some antioxidants in their body, but they also need antioxidants from their diet to ensure adequate protection against free radical damage, Vineyard says.Antioxidant Requirements in Equine DietsSeveral nutrients act as antioxidants, including vitamins E, A, and C, and the mineral selenium. If there are not enough antioxidants present in the body to combat the potential oxidative damage that occurs as a byproduct of exercise, pregnancy, illness, etc., then the horse can experience muscle cell damage (fatigue and tying-up), immune cell damage (decreased immune function), and nerve cell damage (degenerative diseases such as equine motor neuron disease), Vineyard says.The National Research Councils (NRC) Nutrient Requirements of Horses (2007) outlines established guidelines for vitamin E, selenium, and vitamin A. There is no official NRC requirement for vitamin C because healthy horses can synthesize it on their own, says Vineyard. However, stressed horses might not be able to synthesize adequate amounts of vitamin C, so short-term supplementation in certain cases could be beneficial.Meeting NRC guidelines through a well-balanced diet should serve as the first step in providing antioxidant support. Most ration balancers or fortified feeds, when fed at recommended rates, meet these vitamin and mineral requirements.In addition to required nutrients, several other antioxidant compounds can benefit horses, including coenzyme Q10, alpha-lipoic acid, and plant-derived polyphenols, Vineyard adds.Tailoring a balanced diet to the individual horse helps reduce the risk of oxidative damage.When to Add Antioxidants to Your Horses DietBefore reaching for a supplement, evaluate the horses entire nutrition program. Focusing on feeding a balanced diet that includes plenty of good-quality forage, paired with an appropriate balancer or concentrated feed to supply additional calories and/or essential nutrients is a good place to start, Vineyard says.For healthy horses at maintenance, again, a well-balanced diet often provides adequate antioxidant levels. However, horses with limited pasture access or those that exercise, breed, face stress, or are growing might need additional antioxidant support.A qualified equine nutritionist can also help you determine whether your horse needs additional supplementation. Avoid oversupplementing, which could lead to dietary excess and waste.Choosing a High-Quality Antioxidant SupplementHorse owners have a wide range of options when shopping for supplements. Evaluating products critically can save money and ensure effective support.This goes for any type of nutritional supplement, but owners should look for a supplement from a reputable company that takes reasonable measures to ensure safety, quality, and efficacy of the product, says Vineyard. This might include research trials conducted in horses, labeling transparency, third-party testing, and/or affiliation with an organization like the National Animal Supplement Council that signals a commitment to quality.Oxidative Stress and Equine Joint HealthJoint health remains a key concern for horse owners, especially those with competition and hard-working animals. Exercise places stress on joints, and oxidative damage in these areas can contribute to degenerative joint disease.Degenerative joint disease, also known as arthritis, is characterized by the breakdown of cartilage in the joint and causes pain, stiffness, and decreased range of motion, says Vineyard. Excess oxidative damage in the joint has been implicated in the progression of degenerative joint disease, and antioxidants can help protect against this damage and potentially slow its progression.Owners can adjust both management and nutrition to reduce the risk of joint disease, but they should again start with a balanced diet that meets all their horses nutrient requirements. Many hope supplements will provide quick solutions, but meaningful results often take time. Also, keep in mind that overuse wont necessarily offer added benefits.I do not consider antioxidants as a first line of defense against joint disease, says Vineyard. But as part of a comprehensive joint health support program, antioxidants certainly play a key role in preventing excessive oxidative damage to cartilage cells, and they could be included as part of a comprehensive supplement that specifically targets joint health.Take-Home MessageAntioxidants play an essential role in defending against oxidative damage, which can affect physical performance, immune function, and joint health. Horses need adequate vitamin A, E, and selenium requirements to stay healthy. Any supplementation above and beyond requirements should be considered as part of the overall ration and strategically utilized to meet a specific need, Vineyard says. Dietary supplementation of antioxidants as an insurance policy or just in case is a poor strategy that, at best, will be a waste of money and, at worst, result in a detrimental dietary excess.

New group and private lessons available on Tuesday evenings commencing 1st July 2025We are thrilled to announce our new children's group lessons for novice riders who are already able to walk and trot independently. These group lessons are a great way for children to build confidence and improve their skills.We can also offer private adult and children's lessons for beginners. Our qualified, patient, and knowledgeable instructors will work closely with you or your child to ensure you feel comfortable and confident.At Narrow Water, we prioritize safety above all else. Our horses are well-trained and gentle, making them perfect for children and adults of all ages. We also provide riding helmets.Sign up for our group or private lessons today by contacting us via text message/WhatsApp at 07815653599 or email us at narrowwaterequestriancentre@gmail.com.

A horses diet should provide the majority of the antioxidants they need. | The Horse StaffOxidation occurs naturally in the horses body as it breaks down nutrients. This essential process generates reactive oxygen speciesbetter known as free radicalsthat can cause cellular damage. Supporting the horses antioxidant defenses helps maintain their long-term health and performance.Antioxidants for Overall Horse HealthAntioxidants protect cells from damage caused by oxidative stress. Oxidation occurs when nutrients are broken down and converted to energy, and this process is constantly occurring in the horses body, says Kelly Vineyard, PhD, equine nutritionist and owner of EquiVine PhD Nutrition, based in Gainesville, Florida. Oxidation rates increase as energy needs increase, such as during exercise, growth, pregnancy, and anytime the body is stressed.Because oxidation doesnt occur perfectly, it produces free radicalsmolecules with unpaired electrons that seek to stabilize by binding to other cells. In the process these radicals damage muscle, immune, and nerve tissue.Meanwhile, antioxidants neutralize the free radicals, and the horse needs a steady supply of them. Horses can synthesize some antioxidants in their body, but they also need antioxidants from their diet to ensure adequate protection against free radical damage, Vineyard says.Antioxidant Requirements in Equine DietsSeveral nutrients act as antioxidants, including vitamins E, A, and C, and the mineral selenium. If there are not enough antioxidants present in the body to combat the potential oxidative damage that occurs as a byproduct of exercise, pregnancy, illness, etc., then the horse can experience muscle cell damage (fatigue and tying-up), immune cell damage (decreased immune function), and nerve cell damage (degenerative diseases such as equine motor neuron disease), Vineyard says.The National Research Councils (NRC) Nutrient Requirements of Horses (2007) outlines established guidelines for vitamin E, selenium, and vitamin A. There is no official NRC requirement for vitamin C because healthy horses can synthesize it on their own, says Vineyard. However, stressed horses might not be able to synthesize adequate amounts of vitamin C, so short-term supplementation in certain cases could be beneficial.Meeting NRC guidelines through a well-balanced diet should serve as the first step in providing antioxidant support. Most ration balancers or fortified feeds, when fed at recommended rates, meet these vitamin and mineral requirements.In addition to required nutrients, several other antioxidant compounds can benefit horses, including coenzyme Q10, alpha-lipoic acid, and plant-derived polyphenols, Vineyard adds.Tailoring a balanced diet to the individual horse helps reduce the risk of oxidative damage.When to Add Antioxidants to Your Horses DietBefore reaching for a supplement, evaluate the horses entire nutrition program. Focusing on feeding a balanced diet that includes plenty of good-quality forage, paired with an appropriate balancer or concentrated feed to supply additional calories and/or essential nutrients is a good place to start, Vineyard says.For healthy horses at maintenance, again, a well-balanced diet often provides adequate antioxidant levels. However, horses with limited pasture access or those that exercise, breed, face stress, or are growing might need additional antioxidant support.A qualified equine nutritionist can also help you determine whether your horse needs additional supplementation. Avoid oversupplementing, which could lead to dietary excess and waste.Choosing a High-Quality Antioxidant SupplementHorse owners have a wide range of options when shopping for supplements. Evaluating products critically can save money and ensure effective support.This goes for any type of nutritional supplement, but owners should look for a supplement from a reputable company that takes reasonable measures to ensure safety, quality, and efficacy of the product, says Vineyard. This might include research trials conducted in horses, labeling transparency, third-party testing, and/or affiliation with an organization like the National Animal Supplement Council that signals a commitment to quality.Oxidative Stress and Equine Joint HealthJoint health remains a key concern for horse owners, especially those with competition and hard-working animals. Exercise places stress on joints, and oxidative damage in these areas can contribute to degenerative joint disease.Degenerative joint disease, also known as arthritis, is characterized by the breakdown of cartilage in the joint and causes pain, stiffness, and decreased range of motion, says Vineyard. Excess oxidative damage in the joint has been implicated in the progression of degenerative joint disease, and antioxidants can help protect against this damage and potentially slow its progression.Owners can adjust both management and nutrition to reduce the risk of joint disease, but they should again start with a balanced diet that meets all their horses nutrient requirements. Many hope supplements will provide quick solutions, but meaningful results often take time. Also, keep in mind that overuse wont necessarily offer added benefits.I do not consider antioxidants as a first line of defense against joint disease, says Vineyard. But as part of a comprehensive joint health support program, antioxidants certainly play a key role in preventing excessive oxidative damage to cartilage cells, and they could be included as part of a comprehensive supplement that specifically targets joint health.Take-Home MessageAntioxidants play an essential role in defending against oxidative damage, which can affect physical performance, immune function, and joint health. Horses need adequate vitamin A, E, and selenium requirements to stay healthy. Any supplementation above and beyond requirements should be considered as part of the overall ration and strategically utilized to meet a specific need, Vineyard says. Dietary supplementation of antioxidants as an insurance policy or just in case is a poor strategy that, at best, will be a waste of money and, at worst, result in a detrimental dietary excess.

They usually sell for thousands of pounds, but you could become the proud owner of a vintage rocking horse restored by Gloucestershire-based artist Ellen Wilkinson for as little as 5.The fleabitten grey, a vintage Norton and Barker hand carved in Birmingham in the 1920-30s, is being offered for a prize draw in order to raise money for cancer research.A single entry costs 5, while 20 earns five entries and 50 equates to 15. 100 gives you 35 chances of winning.I spotted a Crowdfunder email about running prize draws, and I thought it would be a great idea, said Ellen. This way it will not only support the charity, but also give someone, who may not have the means to buy one of my artworks, the opportunity to own one, so its a win, win for me.Canon EOS 90D f/3.5 1/80s 18mm ISO100Real horse hairPiccolo has a mane and tail made from real horse hair and hand-painted glass eyes.He is 48 inches (12hh) at the highest point of the neck, with a stand length of 54 inches. Originally he would have been made to carry a large child or small adult.While I refurbish these horses mainly as art pieces, they were originally designed as functional toys and this horse should be fine to ride now, although he is an old horse so should be treated with care, said Ellen, who initially purchased the once-tatty horse to restore and sell on for a profit after spotting him on Facebook marketplace.However, she decided to set up the crowdfunder after learning that its owner had been diagnosed with a rare form of brain cancer.Although rocking horse refurbishment is the way I make a living, I felt uncomfortable using this one to turn a profit, she said.I felt it could serve a greater purpose and knew I wanted to use the horse to raise some money for the previous owners chosen charity, Cancer Research UK.Piccolo before he was restoredA sense of characterPiccolo now wears leather tack and a hand-stitched, removable double bridle, as well as a straight-cut pigskin saddle, which is fixed to the horse.The stand is made new from reclaimed timber, making the grey rocking horse strong and fit to last for the next 100 years.I wasnt sure what he was going to be until I put his new eyes in and then got a sense of his character, said Ellen. With his lovely dished face, he reminded me of an Arab and the colouring just seemed to suit him.The crowdfunderAll the money raised by the Crowdfunder (after costs have been deducted) will be donated to Cancer Research UK.There is an initial target of 3,000 and more than 2,000 has been raised so far.The prize draw closes on July 4 and is open to UK residents. National courier PJ Parcels has offered to sponsor the transport to get Piccolo to his new home.Cancer is a disease that has impacted so many peoples lives. I lost two of my grandparents to it, and so many of my friends parents when I was growing up, said Ellen. Cancer Research UK are doing so much ground-breaking work to find cures, it really is a worthy cause that I am very keen to support.Enter the CrowdFunder hereImages Ellen WilkinsonFurther readingHow to tell if a horse is happy5 things your horses vet really wishes you wouldnt doWin a brand new fly rug plus other great goodiesSide saddle: how to get startedThe post 5 entry fee could win you a vintage rocking horse worth thousands appeared first on Your Horse.

Key Points Description Versatility & Appeal Connemara ponies are known for versatility, temperament, and athleticism, originating from County Galway, Ireland. Size Range Typically 13 to 15 hands high (52 to 60 inches or 132 to 152 cm), average 14 to 14.2 hands (56 to 58 inches or 142 to 147 cm). Full Maturity Reach full maturity at five years; growth influenced by nutrition, genetics, and health. Genetic Influence Genetics play a critical role in determining size; strong genetic predisposition can lead to larger ponies. Nutrition Adequate nutrition with essential vitamins, minerals, and proteins is essential for healthy growth. Health Considerations Regular veterinary check-ups and optimal health conditions are crucial for achieving desired size. Over-Height Ponies Ponies over 148 cm excel in eventing and show jumping; known for athleticism and versatility. Conclusion Connemara ponies are cherished for size, temperament, and versatility, suitable for various activities. Understanding the Growth Potential of Connemara Ponies: How Big Will They Really Get? Connemara ponies are renowned for their versatility, temperament, and athleticism, making them a popular choice among horse enthusiasts. Originating from County Galway in Ireland, these ponies are known for their compact build and robust stature, attributes that contribute to their appeal in various equestrian disciplines. But how big can they really get? Let's delve into the growth potential of Connemara ponies and explore the factors that influence their size. Overview of Connemara Ponies Connemara ponies are considered one of the largest pony breeds. Typically, they range in height from 13 to 15 hands high (52 to 60 inches or 132 to 152 cm), with an average height of 14 to 14.2 hands high (56 to 58 inches or 142 to 147 cm). This size can vary slightly depending on lineage and breeding practices, but the breed standard generally holds. For showing purposes, the preferred height is between 128 cm and 148 cm, with ponies exceeding 148 cm being used in disciplines like [eventing and show jumping](https://www.horseandhound.co.uk/features/buying-a-connemara-pony-842751). Growth Patterns Like many ponies, Connemaras typically reach full maturity around five years of age, although some might continue growing slightly beyond this point. Factors such as nutrition, genetics, and overall health can influence their growth rate. A well-nourished pony will generally achieve its full potential height by the age of four to five years, with minimal growth thereafter. Genetic Influence Genetics plays a critical role in determining the size and growth potential of Connemara ponies. Ponies with a strong genetic predisposition to larger size may grow closer to the upper end of the breed standard. Additionally, it's not uncommon to see subtle deviations based on genetics alone. The Role of Nutrition The importance of adequate nutrition cannot be overstressed. A balanced diet that includes essential vitamins, minerals, and proteins supports healthy growth and development. Nutritional deficiencies can stunt growth or lead to health issues that might impact size indirectly. To ensure your pony thrives, consider supplements from Everyday Horse Vitamins & Supplements. Health Considerations Overall health greatly impacts a pony's growth. Regular veterinary check-ups and maintaining optimal health conditions help ensure that ponies can achieve their desired size. Preventative care, such as using effective Horse Fly Protection, keeps them in their best form. Over-Height Connemaras While Connemara ponies are typically not suited for shows if they exceed the maximum height of 148 cm, over-height ponies find popularity in disciplines like eventing and show jumping. These ponies are celebrated for their athleticism and versatility, making them a valued choice among riders looking for larger mounts with agility. Conclusion In summary, Connemara ponies are cherished for their size, temperament, and versatility, suitable for a wide range of activities. Understanding their growth potential helps owners and enthusiasts appreciate the unique characteristics and capabilities of these ponies. Whether used for riding, showing, or other equestrian pursuits, Connemara ponies are sure to impress with their robust build and impressive performance. For those interested in learning more about Connemara ponies and their growth patterns, explore resources such as the [British Connemara Pony Society](https://www.britishconnemaras.com/) or join horse care communities discussing pony growth like the [Horse and Hound Forums](https://forums.horseandhound.co.uk/threads/connemara-growth.837520/). Visit us at Just Horse Riders for all your horse riding boot, glove, and riding sock needs!```html```