Welcome to Horse Illustrateds weekly installment of the Right Horse Adoptable Horse of the Week, offered in partnership with the ASPCAs Right Horse program. This weeks adoptable horse is Corazon! Check back weekly for a new featured horse so you can find your Right Horse.Photo courtesy Longmeadow Rescue RanchAdoptable Horse: Corazon, a 16-year-old, 14.0hh Appaloosa geldingOrganization: Longmeadow Rescue Ranch, Union, Mo.Get to Know Adoptable Horse CorazonCorazon is a handsome Appaloosa gelding who was returned to Longmeadow in September 2024 when his owner could no longer care for him. After his routine 30-day quarantine ended, this stunning gelding was able to be reevaluated by their training team.Upon evaluation, Longmeadows trainer found that Corazon was more of a forward ride. He had no problem moving fast in fact, she spent a lot of time trying to hold Corazon back. The man just wants to go! He is soft in the bridle and rides off leg. Although he tends to have moments of stubbornness under saddle, Corazon can be easily redirected by a confident, knowledgeable rider who isnt afraid to send him forward during his little temper tantrums.Corazon truly enjoys having a job and is an intelligent horse. He will need a handler and rider who isnt afraid to correct certain behaviors, such as pushiness on the ground. He will also need an adopter who can work with him through the occasional spook. Although mighty, this gaited gelding can be a scaredy cat sometimes. At the Ranch, Corazon has been ridden both outside and in the indoor arena. He has been ridden both alone and with others. He tends to need a little more confidence from his rider when being ridden alone.Corazon is good for grooming, tacking up, and standing tied. He also stands well for the farrier and vet. He is not a fan of fly spray or trailer loading. Corazon has a silly, endearing personality. While he also isnt the biggest fan of getting bathed, he does like being sprayed in the mouth and playing with the hose. He also loves to eat. Because of this, he will need a grazing muzzle or dry lot at his future home. At the Ranch, he is on a daily dose of Thyro-L to maintain a healthy weight.Contact Longmeadow Rescue Ranch today about ASPCA Right Horse Adoptable Horse of the Week, Corazon!Photo courtesy Longmeadow Rescue RanchASPCA Right HorseASPCA Right Horse is the online adoption platform of The Right Horse Initiative, a collection of equine industry and welfare professionals and advocates working together to improve the lives of horses in transition. A program of the ASPCA, their goal is to massively increase horse adoption in the United States. To find more adoptable horses and foster horses, visit www.myrighthorse.org. To learn more about The Right Horse, a program of the ASPCA, visit www.aspcarighthorse.org.The post ASPCA Right Horse Adoptable Horse of the Week: Corazon appeared first on Horse Illustrated Magazine.

Firefighters from Hampshire & Isle of Wight First & Rescue Service raced to the aid of a bay horse who became stuck in a muddy bog while out hacking in the New Forest.Tyse and his owner were out riding in the village of Emery Down when the 16hh bay horse stepped on to what appeared to be a normal patch of grass and began sinking.The rider was able to free herself and called for help. Crews from Redbridge, as well as specialist animal rescue teams from Lyndhurst and Winchester, attended the scene. They were on site for three hours.At around 4pm on Monday (16June), Redbridge crews were alerted and supported on the scene by our specialist animal rescue teams in Lyndhurst and Winchester, said a spokesperson.Under the supervision of a local vet, firefighters used a barrel technique to remove to the horse from the bog, before carrying out a controlled rollover, with specialist strops and a head harness equipment in use.Tyse was successfully pulled out of the mud and he was reported to be unharmed, albeit very muddy.The entire operation lasted around three hours, with the teams returning to station shortly after 7pm, added a spokesperson. Thanks to their swift and skilled response, Tyse was left muddy but unharmed.Specialist animal rescue teamsSpecialist animal rescue teams are made up of people from rural backgrounds who have many years experience of handling horses and livestock. They attend incidents involving animals in order to advise the officer in charge on matters of health and safety, animal welfare and rescue techniques.According to the Hampshire & Isle of Wight First & Rescue Service website, specialist animal rescue team members are trained in animal psychology, as well as how to handle different species and how to react to an animal in distress. They train regularly under the guidance of the animal rescue specialists.Main image supplied by Hampshire & Isle of Wight First & Rescue ServiceRelated contentFire crew pull escaped mare from icy Derbyshire canalThe many benefits of regular hacking for you and your horseFirefighters free stricken mare in water-filled ditchChestnut gelding trapped in swimming pool is rescuedThe post Firefighters rescue horse who got stuck in a muddy bog while out hacking appeared first on Your Horse.

Ocala, Florida July 1, 2025 Mobile dining delivery has arrived at World Equestrian Center Ocala, making it easier than ever to enjoy your favorite eats without missing a moment of the action. Guests can now get all their favorite dishes from Filos Mexican Cantina, Ralphs Burger & Sandwich Shop, and Viola & Dots Italian Kitchen & Pizzeria delivered to select spots across[...]Read MoreThe post On-Site Delivery Now Available for WEC Ocala Mobile Dining Orders! appeared first on World Equestrian Center.

Charlotte (Lottie) Fry and her 14-year-old black stallion Glamourdale have taken over the number one spots in both the athletes and horse FEI dressage world rankings.The British duo, who won dual bronze at last years Paris Olympic Games, last topped the global rankings from January until May 2023.I am so incredibly proud to be the new number one on the FEI Dressage World Ranking, said Lottie. Its an amazing achievement and this wouldnt be possible without the amazing team around me, especially the Van Olsts. After Glamourdales hugely successful year so far, he truly deserves this and I feel so honoured to ride him every single day. Hes just amazing.In April, the pair headed the Les Trois Rois FEI Dressage World Cup Final 2025 in Basel, Switzerland.Just last week, they took top honours in the grand prix at the Rotterdam CDIO5* in the Netherlands.Last summer, they collected both individual bronze and team bronze at the Olympic Games in Paris.Bomb in secondBoth Lottie and Glamourdale have 1,939 points each in the overall standings.The previous world number one, Denmarks Cathrine Laudrup-Dufour, now sits in third with 1,793 points.Germanys Isabell Werth moves into second with 1,851 points.In the horse stakes, Glamourdale is followed by his Olympic teammate Jagerbomb the homebred mount of Becky Moody, who has been confirmed for this years Your Horse Live on 1,737 points.Isabell Werths DSP Quantaz lies third with 1,688 points.Last month, Your Horse reported that Harry Meade had taken the top spot in the FEI Eventing World Rankings for the first time.It means British riders are currently ranked number one in the world in both dressage and eventing at the time of writing (5pm on Tuesday 1 July).View the athlete rankings in fullView the horse rankings in fullMain image of Lottie and Glamourdale winning the World Cup in Switzerland. FEI/Benjamin ClarkRelated contentBronze for Lottie! Team GB Equestrian secures fifth medal of the Olympic GamesAsk the dressage judge: experts explain how to improve your test scoreOlympian Becky Moody is first top name announced for Your Horse Live 2025Why riding on the correct diagonal is important for keeping a horse soundThe post British pair tops the FEI dressage world rankings for both horses and athletes appeared first on Your Horse.

Key Points Details Overview Wide stirrup leathers enhance rider comfort, stability, and safety, offering a broader strap compared to traditional leathers. Definition Wide stirrup leathers have a wider surface for increased contact with the saddle flap and rider's leg, improving stability and performance. Benefits Include enhanced stability and support, reduction in joint pain, improved comfort, and increased durability. Stability & Support Provide a more stable surface to support the riders leg, reducing twisting and promoting closer contact with the horse. Joint Pain Reduction Distribute pressure evenly, alleviating joint discomfort and avoiding pinching or rubbing against the leg. Comfort Crafted from high-quality leather, offer precise length adjustments and minimize bulkiness for long riding sessions. Durability Made from premium materials with reinforced cores, resist wear and tear, ensuring a longer lifespan. Value The benefits in stability, safety, comfort, and durability often justify the higher cost. Technical Insight Broader contact area reduces unwanted movement, providing a quieter, secure leg feel. Conclusion Wide stirrup leathers significantly improve stability, comfort, and safety, making them a worthy investment for equestrians. Are Wide Stirrup Leathers Worth the Investment for Equestrians? When it comes to horse riding, every piece of tack plays a crucial role in rider comfort, stability, and safety. Among these, stirrup leathersoften overlookedcan significantly impact a riders experience in the saddle. Recently, wide stirrup leathers have gained popularity, and many equestrians wonder: Are wide stirrup leathers worth the investment? This blog dives deep into the benefits, backed by facts and expert insight, to help you decide if upgrading your stirrup leathers makes sense. What Are Wide Stirrup Leathers? Traditional stirrup leathers are typically about 1 inch wide. Wide stirrup leathers, however, feature a broader strap that increases the surface area in contact with the saddle flap and the riders leg. This design innovation aims to improve leg stability, reduce discomfort, and enhance overall riding performance. For example, the Vortex Wide Stability Stirrup Leathers offer a much larger base of support than standard leathers, crafted from soft calfskin with a reinforced core for durability and comfort. The Key Benefits of Wide Stirrup Leathers 1. Enhanced Stability and Support Wide stirrup leathers provide a broader, more stable surface which supports the riders lower leg more effectively. This increased support translates to a quieter and steadier leg position in the saddle, which is critical for maintaining balance, particularly in jumping and dressage. Because wide leathers reduce twisting and shiftinga common issue with thinner onesthey promote a closer contact with the horse. Riders report increased confidence and control, which elevates riding safety and technique. 2. Reduction in Joint Pain Many riders experience knee, ankle, or hip pain due to instability or pinching caused by regular stirrup leathers. The wide design mitigates this by distributing pressure evenly and eliminating pinching or rubbing against the leg. This ergonomic benefit means that switching to wide stirrup leathers can alleviate joint discomfort during and after rides. 3. Improved Comfort Crafted from high-quality supple leather, wide stirrup leathers such as those made from soft calfskin with ergonomic buckles help avoid bulkiness under the leg and allow for precise length adjustments (e.g., half-inch spacing). This leads to increased comfort for long riding sessions and reduces strain on ankles and hips. 4. Durability and Longevity Investing in wide stirrup leathers made from premium materials ensures a longer lifespan. High-quality leather with reinforced cores resists wear and tear from daily use, providing many years of reliable service which justifies the initial cost. Are They Worth the Investment? From a cost perspective, wide stirrup leathers might come at a premium compared to standard ones. However, the value gained in stability, safety, comfort, and durability often outweighs the price difference. Lessons from riders who have switched to wide stirrup leathers highlight: Enhanced leg stability reducing riding fatigue and joint pain No more twisting or pinching, ensuring a smoother ride Improved riding posture and technique through better contact and support Technical Insights: How Wide Stirrup Leathers Work The physics behind wide stirrup leathers reveals why they perform better. Traditional 1-inch leathers have instability because their narrow width doesn't provide lateral contact points on the saddle flap, causing them to twist or shift independently. Wide stirrup leathers broaden this contact area, creating left and right contact points that stabilize the leather against the saddle flap, thus reducing unwanted movement and offering a quiet, secure leg feel. Conclusion Wide stirrup leathers offer significant improvements in rider stability, comfort, and safety, supported by high-quality craftsmanship and design. Their ability to reduce joint pain, prevent twisting, and provide a closer contact with the horse makes them a worthy investment for many equestrians. If you value performance and comfort in your riding, upgrading to wide stirrup leathers is a smart choiceone that riders frequently praise for enhancing their overall equestrian experience.```html```

Section Key Points Introduction Hacking improves fitness and well-being for horse and rider; requires careful budgeting and planning. Choosing the Right Horse Look for well-mannered, sound, and reliable horses; invest in a pre-purchase exam. Essential Tack and Safety Equipment Helmet, high-visibility clothing, saddle, bridle, and hoof protection are necessary; costs vary. Training and Conditioning Proper training prepares for outdoor riding; invest in lessons and regular rides for safety. Veterinary Care and Preventative Health Routine care includes vaccinations, dental, and farrier visits; cost ranges from $800 to $1,500 yearly. Appropriate Riding Routes and Safety Measures Plan routes using safe trails and account for transport costs; use navigation aids to avoid hazards. Insurance and Emergency Preparedness Budget for equine and liability insurance; carry an emergency kit during rides. Conclusion Proper budgeting ensures safety and enjoyment, offering benefits for both horse and rider. Introduction For many equestrians, hackingleisurely riding outside the arena on trails or roadsis one of the most enjoyable ways to bond with their horse. It improves fitness and well-being for both horse and rider. However, a safe and enjoyable hacking experience requires careful budgeting and meticulous planning. From choosing the right horse to ensuring you have all the necessary equipment, this guide outlines the key considerations that should be on your checklist. Choosing the Right Horse: Quality and Temperament Matter First and foremost, a hacking horse should be well-mannered, comfortable to ride, and reliable in varied environments. According to Equestrian Australia, show hacks emphasize quality, soundness, and good temperament. Your horse should be sound of wind and limb, meaning they are free from respiratory or lameness issues, essential for handling varied terrains safely. Budget Tips: Expect to pay more for horses with proven calm temperaments and physical soundness. Thoroughbred-type horses or hacks are often ideal. Always get a vet check and pre-purchase exam to avoid costly health issues later on. Essential Tack and Safety Equipment Beyond the horse, budgeting for appropriate tack and safety gear is paramount for protecting both rider and horse. Key items include: Helmet and high-visibility clothing: Wearing a certified riding helmet and reflective gear is crucial. Studies show helmets reduce serious head injury risk by up to 70%. Well-fitted saddle and bridle: Comfortable tack minimizes discomfort and reduces behavioral risks. Hoof care products: Boots or pads protect hooves on rough terrain. Costs you can expect to encounter are detailed in this useful table: Item Estimated Cost Range (USD) Riding helmet $80 $300 High-visibility apparel $50 $150 Quality saddle and bridle $500 $2,500 Hoof boots or pads $100 $300 Training and Conditioning: Investing in Safety through Education Proper training is crucial for safe hacking. This includes preparing both horse and rider for the challenges of outdoor riding, such as traffic, uneven terrain, and obstacles. Hacking is often used as a training method to build fitness and confidence. Horse & Country TV provides insights on using hacking as an effective training tool. Budget Considerations: Hire a qualified trainer for lessons focused on hacking skills. Group hacking lessons can be more budget-friendly and boost confidence. Conditioning through regular rides helps prevent injuries, enhancing safety. Veterinary Care and Preventative Health Management A healthy horse is a safe horse. Preventative veterinary care should be a major line item in your budget. This includes routine vaccinations, dental care to maintain proper bite and comfort, and regular farrier visits every 6-8 weeks to keep hooves healthy and prevent lameness. Typical Yearly Costs: Expect costs for basic veterinary and hoof care to range from $800 to $1,500, depending on location and horse size. Ranvet provides valuable insights into the importance of preventative health management. Appropriate Riding Routes and Safety Measures Planning your route is essential for budgeting time and resources wisely. Safe hacking typically involves using bridleways or quiet country roads. Consider accessibility to safe trails from your yard or livery, transport costs for preferred hacking locations, and investing in navigation aids or phone apps tailored for equestrian routes. Pre-planning reduces the risk of unexpected hazards. Insurance and Emergency Preparedness Budget for insurance and emergency preparedness. Equine insurance covers veterinary bills or theft, while personal liability insurance protects the rider. Carrying an emergency safety kit for rides, containing essentials like a phone and first aid supplies, is also important. Basic equine coverage typically costs around $300$600 annually. Conclusion Budgeting for a safe hacking horse involves careful allocation towards selecting a well-bred, sound, and calm horse, acquiring proper safety equipment, investing in training, and veterinary care. By planning safe hacking routes and preparing with insurance and emergency gear, you can ensure safety. Hacking offers many physical and mental benefits for horse and rider alike. Proper budgeting and preparation create a sustainable, enjoyable experience that protects your investment in horseback riding. Explore our comprehensive collection, from Jodhpur and Horse Riding Boot collections to Horse Riding Socks for all your equestrian needs. References & Further Reading: Horse & Hound, Hacking horses: what does it mean and why you do it (2023) Horsemart, Hacking: Everything You Need To Know (2022) Horse & Country TV, Horse Hacking: What is it, and how to do it safely Ranvet, Show Hack or Show Hunter What is the difference? (2025) ```html```

Topic Details Trend Overview Riding out with dogs combines horseback riding with dog companionship, offering physical and psychological benefits. Trend Popularity Appeals to those seeking new outdoor experiences, enhancing both physical activity and social interaction. Physical Benefits Horseback riding improves cardiovascular fitness, strength, coordination; dog ownership linked to reduced risk of heart disease and other health benefits. Psychological Benefits Enhances mood and well-being through pet attachment and nature-related experiences. Social Impact Fosters community engagement, mitigates isolation, particularly beneficial for older adults. Practical Tips Prioritize safety, choose suitable gear, maintain hydration and breaks, know your dog's limits. Conclusion A holistic approach combining exercise and companionship, promoting nature enjoyment and well-being. Exploring the Trend: Riding Out with Dogs - A New Way to Bond and Exercise In recent years, a fresh and invigorating trend has emerged among pet lovers and outdoor enthusiasts alike: riding out with dogs. This activitytaking your dog along while you engage in horseback riding or trail ridingoffers a dynamic way to strengthen the human-animal bond while reaping numerous physical and psychological benefits. This blog explores why riding out with dogs is gaining popularity, how it enhances well-being, and how it uniquely combines bonding and exercise. The Rise of Riding Out with Dogs: Whats Driving the Trend? Pet ownership has long been associated with improved physical and mental health, particularly among older adults. Dog owners tend to be more physically active, as they are motivated to walk their pets regularly. Studies show dog owners are 34% more likely to get at least 150 minutes of exercise weekly compared to non-dog owners, which meets the recommended activity levels for maintaining health. Integrating dogs into horseback riding trips offers a refreshing twist that allows both horse and dog owners to engage simultaneously in nature-based exercise. Why Is This Trend Capturing Hearts? This combined activity appeals especially to people looking for novel outdoor experiences that go beyond the traditional dog walk or solo horseback ride. It also provides a significant social and psychological boost, embedding pet interaction within an enriching, immersive environment. Physical Health Benefits: Double the Activity, Double the Rewards Both horseback riding and dog walking independently contribute to better health: Horseback riding: Improvements in cardiovascular fitness, core strength, coordination, and balance make it an excellent full-body exercise. A study published in the Journal of Equine Veterinary Science underlines horseback ridings effectiveness as a health-promoting exercise. Dog ownership: Correlated with lower risks of heart disease, obesity, and type 2 diabetes. According to the American Heart Association, dog ownership is linked to a 21% reduction in risk of death among heart disease patients, reflecting a significant health advantage. By combining horseback riding with dog companionship, participants can maximize their activity levels without feeling pressured. Light play with dogs during rides, such as tossing a ball during breaks, adds gentle exercise that further supports mobility and cardiovascular health. Psychological and Social Benefits: Enhancing Wellbeing Through Connection The emotional attachment to pets is a major contributor to psychological wellbeing. Research indicates that recreational horseback riders have pet attachment scores nearly as high as dog owners, demonstrating a strong bond with their animals. Mood ratings from studies reveal that recreational riders experience significantly better mood states compared to people without pets, similar to dog owners. These nature-related experiences during activities enhance the psychological benefits, reinforcing feelings of calm, happiness, and personal growth. Community Engagement and Social Impact Riding out with dogs encourages social interactions among riders and walkers, fostering community and reducing feelings of isolation. This is particularly valuable for older adults seeking enjoyable ways to maintain their social networks while staying physically active. Practical Tips for Riding Out with Dogs For those interested in trying this activity, consider the following tips: Safety first: Ensure your dog is well-trained and comfortable around horses. Start with short rides in familiar, quiet locations. Choose the right gear: Use leashes or harnesses compatible with equestrian settings and consider protective boots for your dog on rough terrain. Hydration and breaks: Carry water for both your horse and dog, and take regular breaks to rest and engage with your dog through play or petting. Know your dogs limits: Be mindful of your dogs stamina, breed, and health status to avoid overexertion. Conclusion: A Harmonious Blend of Activity and Companionship Riding out with dogs embodies an innovative and holistic approach to bonding and exercise. It combines the cardiovascular and muscular benefits of horseback riding with the motivating companionship and health benefits of dog ownership. Supported by research emphasizing the positive impacts of pet attachment on mood and wellbeing, this trend offers a rewarding way to experience nature, enhance physical health, and deepen the human-animal bond. As more people discover this enriching activity, its poised to become a favored pastime for those seeking connection, fun, and fitness in the great outdoors. If youre inspired to explore this new way of bonding and exercising with your dog, remember to prioritize safety and enjoy the unique joys that come from riding out with your furry companion.```html```

A man fromRhondda Cynon Taf in Wales has been disqualified from owning, keeping or transporting horses after he admitted sexually abusing horses in a prosecution brought by the RSPCA.CCTV footage showed the 26-year-old male using an in-season mare to tease and arouse a stallion before he entered the stable and masturbated the stallion. He is also shown inserting his fingers into the stallions anus and repeatedly offering his bare arm to the horse to nuzzle and mouth on.Corey Coleman was also found guilty of charges relating to a second stallion and a bay mare.He was handed a suspended prison sentence after he pleaded guilty to four offences under the Animal Welfare Act at Merthyr Tydfil Magistrates Court earlier this year (9 April).RSPCA investigating officer Gemma Cooperdescribed it as being a harrowing case.Suspended prison sentenceColeman also admitted to failing to meet the needs of the stallion, Benny, a colt, Bear, and a bay mare named Narla (pictured top). The mare was in season at the time of the offences and was exposed to a risk of injury from the stallions.Coleman was sentenced today (Wednesday 2 July) to an eight-week prison sentence suspended for 12 months. He must also do 25 Rehabilitation Activity Requirement days and was disqualified from owning, keeping or transporting horses for five years.Coleman was ordered to pay a 120 fine, 154 victim surcharge and a contribution of 200 to the RSPCAs costs.The stallion Bear is picturedCCTV footage of the abuseIn mitigation it was heard that Coleman didnt think he was harming the horses, but accepted after reading the vet evidence that he caused them to suffer.Concerns were raised when Coleman was injured by one of the stallions on 27 June 2024 and was left with a broken back.CCTV was reviewed to establish the cause of the incident. Subsequent footage showed him continuing to abuse the horses, with a broken back and whilst wearing a back brace. The footage also showed that children had been in the vicinity at the time.On 31 July 2024, police, the RSPCA and a vet attended the yard in the Welsh village of Tonyrefail and identified the three horses seen on the CCTV. They were examined by a vet and were found to have sustained no physical injuries from the abuse.Clear what he was doingA witness statement from RSPCA Inspector Keith Hogben said that there was a plastic container (pictured below) outside Bennys stable which he was told belonged to Coleman.In this container was a bottle of baby lotion that was also seen in the CCTV videos, this baby lotion bottle was photographed by myself in situ, he said in the statement.In a vet report provided to the court, after reviewing sections of CCTV footage from 27June, 15 July and 29 July, they said the key footage is from 15 July which shows clearly what Mr Coleman [was] doing to the stallion.Vet reportThe vet report said: In this footage it is notable that Mr Coleman is using a mare who appears to be in season positioned outside the stallions stable to tease and arouse the stallion before he then enters the stallions stable and masturbates the stallion which is clearly shown on the footage. He is also shown inserting his fingers into the anus of the stallion.It is also notable that Mr Coleman repeatedly offers his bare forearm to the stallion to nuzzle and mouth on.The same behaviours are shown on the videos from the other two dates, but on these occasions Mr Coleman interacts with a stallion who is stabled out of the CCTV footage so whilst it is possible to observe Mr Colemans interactions with the mare who he positions outside the stallions stable it is not possible to see what interactions he is having with the stallion.It is however possible to see that he repeatedly offers his bare forearm to the stallion to nuzzle and mouth as he does on the footage from the 15 July.Sexually abusing both stallionsThe vet concluded that: It is my expert opinion that the CCTV shows Mr Coleman sexually abusing both stallions and that in doing so he has caused them both to suffer unnecessarily as shown by their aversive behaviour in moving away from him and circling around from him.The vet added that in his expert opinion based on the evidence supplied to him this abuse has been conducted over a prolonged period of time as the horses were conditioned to this abuse.Gemma Cooper, deputy chief inspector at the RSPCA, added: Following an examination by a vet thankfully the horses were found to be okay despite having to endure this abuse and suffering.Wed like to thank everyone involved in what has been a harrowing case.Latest newsFirefighters rescue horse who got stuck in a bog out hackingNew national championships for endurance ridersPlasma transfer saves the life of foal born to rescue mareNew register for equine nutritionists and feed advisors to combat armchair expertsThe post Guilty verdict for man captured on CCTV sexually abusing horses in harrowing case appeared first on Your Horse.

World Horse Welfare has resumed its rehoming programme after being paused for months due to an outbreak of strangles, the most common highly infectious disease affectinghorse health.The charitys Hall Farm rescue and rehoming centre, near Snetterton, was forced to halt all rehoming activity and close to the public in February of this year when a new arrival tested positive for strangles.Despite stringent biosecurity measures, the disease quickly spread, prompting an immediate lockdown on all equine movements at the Hall Farm site.It is believed that the strangles outbreak originated from one of 20 horses and ponies that were being illegally smuggled out of the country. The charitys attending officer described their rescue as being a heart-breaking scene. Many of the equines were sick and weak, and they were being transported in horrific conditions.Despite our strict protocols, strangles was confirmed in one of the new arrivals and spread to other horses on the farm, said centre manager Sue Hodgkins.We responded swiftly, working closely with vets every step of the way to contain and manage the situation.A horrible diseaseStrangles is a highly contagious bacterial infection in horses caused by the bacterium Streptococcus equi, which affects their upper respiratory tract.Equine vet Dr Imogen Burrows told Your Horse how the disease is not prejudicial.Any horse can get strangles, whatever their age, breed, health or value, and it is a horrible disease, she stated.For affected horses, strangles can cause suffering and in the most severe cases the complications can be life changing.In rare cases, horses can die. Quite rightly, there is a lot of concern and worry around strangles in horses.Outbreak under controlAfter months of careful quarantine, testing and vaccination, the rescue centre has now brought the outbreak under control and is once again offering horses and ponies for rehoming.We are delighted to finally be able to start finding new homes for our horses again, said Sue.Hall Farm is currently at maximum capacity, so we cant take in any more equines in need of our expert care until we make space by finding some of our horses and ponies loving homes of their own.Id urge anyone looking for a horse to consider rehoming by doing so, youre not only offering that horse or pony a second chance in life, but also making space for another one in need to come into our care.Colour-coded paddock systemWorld Horse Welfares UK director, Malcolm Morley, echoed the importance of rehoming as a vital part of the charitys mission and described how a colour-coded paddock system has helped to control the disease.With our horses being very carefully managed and separate teams caring for horses with different infection statuses, our paddocks have been designated as red, amber, or green zones, he said.As more and more of our horses have reached green zone status meaning theyve tested clear of strangles and been vaccinated weve been able to restart our rehoming scheme.Every horse and pony now available for rehoming at Hall Farm has been screened using the gold standard test (guttural pouch lavage), completed a two-dose strangles booster vaccination course, and spent a quarantine period in a green zone paddock.Available for rehomingHall Farm currently has eight horses and ponies available for rehoming.Rehoming coordinator Gemma Hanshaw shared that most are non-ridden companions, though two younger ponies may be suitable for light work in the future.Crumble and Petal, both aged two, have the potential to make brilliant childrens ponies when old enough, said Gemma.The others range in age from five-year-old Captain Tom to 22-year-old Dolly, who will make a wonderful companion to another pony who needs to watch their waistline.Wed love to hear from anyone who thinks they could offer one of our horses and ponies the perfect home.Petal is one of the ponies available for rehomingSupport and understandingWhilst rehoming has resumed, the farm is still currently closed to the public, with plans to potentially re-open in time for the school summer holidays.Manager Sue Hodgkins expressed gratitude for the continued understanding of the local community.Its been a really tough time for the team, but our supporters have been amazing, she said.Wed like to say a huge thank you for their support and understanding about not being able to visit during the outbreak.Updates from World Horse Welfare regarding reopening to visitors will be posted on their news pages or social media.Images World Horse WelfareRelated contentLatest vet advice about highly contagious stranglesOutrage as 20 horses and ponies found being fraudulently transported out of the UKMiracle foal born to mare saved as part of the Trafficked 20Dover 26 horses rescued from being smuggled last year are seeking new homesYard shares devastating impact of strangles in bid to protect other horsesThe post Norfolk horse charity restarts rehoming scheme after strangles outbreak triggered shutdown appeared first on Your Horse.