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 Twix! Check back weekly for a new featured horse so you can find your Right Horse.Photo courtesy Nexus EquineAdoptable Horse: Dawson City, a 27-year-old, 14.2hh American Paint Horse geldingOrganization: Nexus Equine, El Reno, Okla.Get to Know Adoptable Horse TwixLooking for a horse thats got fire in his heart, sparkle in his eye, and absolutely zero time for slowpokes? Say hello to Twix, the flashy, fiery gelding who thinks hes the main event and honestly, were not going to argue.Twix is not your average pasture ornament. Hes a full-throttle, arena-loving, pole-bending, barrel-blasting machine with a confidence level that should honestly be studied by scientists. He doesnt just run patterns he owns them. Walk into a new arena? Hell strut in like hes been crowned champion three years running (whether or not he has is beside the point).Now, lets be honest, Twix knows hes got it going on. Hes got the looks, the moves, and the attitude to match. Hes not here for cuddles and small talk. Hes here to go fast and be fabulous. And while he may occasionally under saddle be, well lets say selectively cooperative, its all part of his charm. Twix isnt here to people-please. Hes here to find someone who can keep up.But heres the twist: for all his turbo-charged ego in the saddle, Twix is a total gentleman on the ground. Hes easy to handle, enjoys attention (on his terms, of course), and is happy to hang out with humans who can appreciate the depth of his self-delusion. Respect his royal status, and hell meet you halfway maybe even three-quarters if snacks are involved.He needs a rider who loves speed, thrives on big energy, and wont flinch when he turns on the turbo. If you like em with a little extra spice, Twix might just be your kind of horse. Hes got a light gas pedal and heavy brake pedal and he will demand a generous dinner afterward. Flashy, fun, and full of personality, Twix is a four-legged firecracker ready to light up your world.This isnt a horse whos counting his years hes too busy living them. So if youre looking for a steady trail plodder, you might want to pass. But if youre up for a thrilling ride with a whole lot of personality and a horse who genuinely believes hes a legend, then saddle up and come meet Twix.Twix is current on: Coggins, vaccines, worming, farrier and dental care and is microchipped. Twix has Cushings and will sent to his new home with a 30-day supply of Prascend.Contact Nexus Equine today about ASPCA Right Horse Adoptable Horse of the Week, Twix!Photo courtesy Nexus EquineASPCA 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: Twix appeared first on Horse Illustrated Magazine.

A West Sussex equine rehabilitation charity has reported its busiest month on record, reflecting a shifting emphasis among horse owners to maximise their horses athletic careers and overall health and wellbeing.Moorcroft Equine Rehabilitation Centre, based in Slinfold, treated almost 50% more horses in May 2025 compared with a typical month, driven by a surge in owners seeking expert support, early intervention and preventative care.Chief Executive of Moorcroft, Mary Frances, has headed up the charity for the past 20 years and said she is seeing a fundamental shift in mindset across the equestrian community.Owners are increasingly recognising that innovative veterinary treatments and rehabilitation techniques are no longer solely reserved for acute injuries, but can play a crucial role in maintaining soundness, managing chronic conditions, and extending the active lives of their horses, she said.Evolving standardsMary explained that Moorcroft, as well as other similar organisations, have progressed in step with the evolving standards of equine healthcare.First and foremost, we offer horse owners an expert ear when they feel their horse is not right, before using evidence-based diagnostic systems to find out where the discomfort starts. Guesswork is simply not good enough and can often waste both time and money.Moorcroft treated an unprecedented 25 horses in May 2025.Key developments in treatment options are thought to be helping to fuel this progress. Regenerative therapies like platelet-rich plasma (PRP) are being used to treat injuries that were once considered career ending. Precise diagnostics and targeted exercise programmes are able to address weaknesses before they escalate.Treatment optionsSome of the impactful methods used at rehabilitation centres include:Regenerative therapies. Such as PRP, to accelerate tissue repair and recovery.Long reining. Enables a better understanding of how to strengthen the equine anatomy and prevent initial or further injury.Muscle development. Focuses on spinal muscle balance and targeted strengthening.Gastric ulcer treatment. Identifies and relieves internal pain to reduce stress and behavioural issues.Preventative hoof care and specialist farriery. Correcting hoof angles to ensure balance, soundness, and joint protection.Mary added that a stronger emphasis on preventative therapies signals a promising future for equine welfare. The goal is not just to treat illness but to actively promote and maintain the sound, healthy lives of horses for as long as possible.Advice for horse ownersMary, who is a BHSII and BHS SM and has over 40 years experience in the equine sector, recommended the following preventative care methods for horse owners:Listen to your horse. They are very stoic so if they are struggling regularly in any of the three paces, they will be telling you that something is not quite right.Prioritise regular physiotherapy to ensure your work is not creating pain and understand your horses age and ability and work accordingly. Not pushing your horse out of his or her comfort zone is vital to soundness and muscle building.Learn to recognise subtle signs of lameness or discomfort, such as shortness in stride or a reluctance to be tacked up, not taking a particular lead in canter, going disunited and seek an early diagnosis.Invest in ongoing education to build your own confidence and increase your skills. Try to work closely with evidence-based systems as guesswork is expensive and time consuming.Main image ShutterstockRelated contentHow to tell if a horse is lameVet explains how a horses joints work, plus tips to keep them healthyWhy the time of day you ride and feed affects gastric ulcers in horsesLong reining a horse: technique explained and exercises to tryThe post Rehabilitation centre reports record demand as horse owners prioritise preventative care appeared first on Your Horse.

Horse-mad young people and children (and, lets face it, many adults) will be delighted to see the addition of brand new toy rider dolls to LeMieuxs toy pony range.Chloe, Olivia, and Maya as the dolls are named are described by the manufacturer as being interactive, fully articulated equestrian dolls made for imaginative and educational play.The new dolls, launched today (9 July), are designed to sit on and ride LeMieuxstoy ponies authentically. They hold the reins and rest their feet in the stirrups.They are fully self-supporting both on and off their ponies and are suitable for children aged three and above. The trio feature real-feel hair, natural eyelashes, and come dressed in removableLeMieuxriding wear, including a riding helmet and boots.Our toy riders expand the magic of ourLeMieuxToy Pony collection, allowing children to engage in even more lifelike equestrian play, said CEO Dan Mahoney. They encourage imaginative, sensory-rich play, helping children build confidence, empathy, and equestrian knowledge in a fun and accessible way.Toy rider MayaMatching doll outfitsAlso launching today are mix and match rider outfits for the new toy dolls.Available in chilli red, ice blue, and hunter green, the clothing accessories include breeches, a base layer, and a hat silk.Designed for mix-and-match creativity, the outfits open up countless colour combinations when paired withLeMieuxs Toy Pony range, said a statement from LeMieux, which was awarded a Royal Warrant by Appointment to King Charles III in May this year. The companys popular toy range also includes hobby horses, tiny ponies and toy puppies.Toy rider OliviaWhere to buyLeMieuxtoys were launched three years ago and are now sold at premium retailers such as Selfridges and John Lewis, as well as the biggest equestrian events in the UK, including Your Horse Live in November.The new toy rider range is available now online and at selected retailers.Toy rider ChloeRelated contentFirst hobby horse camp to take place in the UKEquestrian retailer granted Royal WarrantEndurance riding: how to get started in this accessible sportAll the parts of a horses bridle explainedHow to choose the best camera for riders who hackThe post LeMieux adds brand new toy rider dolls to its adored toy pony range appeared first on Your Horse.

Key Point Details Seedy Toe A common hoof condition in horses characterized by the separation of the hoof wall from the lamina, often causing infection. Causes Poor hoof hygiene and overgrown hooves Damp or muddy conditions Nutritional deficiencies Genetic predisposition and hoof conformation Natural Treatment Strategies Proper hoof trimming and cleaning Soaking and topical natural remedies Nutritional support Environmental and management adjustments Soaking Solutions Apple cider vinegar diluted with water Epsom salt soaks Topical Treatments Iodine-based solutions Products like Durasole and Thrush Buster Herbal mixes Nutritional Support Balanced minerals, particularly copper and zinc, are essential for hoof development and immune defense. Environmental Adjustments Keep environment dry and clean Utilize well-drained pastures Ensure regular movement Case Study Surgical resection and regular trimming Topical application of Thrush Buster Nutritional supplementation over 3-4 months Conclusion Treating seedy toe requires a holistic approach involving trimming, natural antiseptics, nutrition, and environmental care. Exploring Natural Alternatives for Treating Seedy Toe in Horses Seedy toe, also known as white line disease, is a common hoof condition in horses characterized by the separation of the hoof wall from the underlying lamina, often leading to infection and crumbly hoof material. With increasing interest in natural alternatives for horse care, many owners seek gentle, effective solutions to manage and prevent this condition. In this article, we'll explore these natural options and provide insights into their effectiveness. Understanding Seedy Toe: Causes and Challenges Seedy toe occurs when the white linethe junction between the hoof wall and solebecomes compromised. This allows dirt, bacteria, and fungi to infiltrate, causing a weakening of the hoof. The contributing factors include: Poor hoof hygiene and overgrown hooves Damp or muddy conditions that soften the hoof horn Nutritional deficiencies, particularly in minerals like copper and zinc Genetic predisposition and hoof conformation Interestingly, environmental conditions are not the only culprits. Internal factors such as diet and immune health also play a crucial role, with some horses developing seedy toe even in dry conditions. Natural Treatment Strategies for Seedy Toe 1. Proper Hoof Trimming and Cleaning Maintaining a well-trimmed hoof is crucial. Overgrown hooves increase mechanical stress, worsening cracks and separations. Reliable trimming alleviates these stresses, and exposes infected areas for cleaning. Key steps include: Carefully removing all crumbly, blackened material Using a hoof pick or specialized tools to clean the affected area 2. Soaking and Topical Natural Remedies Before applying treatments, soaking the hoof in natural antifungal or antibacterial solutions can soften affected tissue. Apple cider vinegar diluted 50/50 with water sanitizes the hoof without harsh chemicals Epsom salt soaks may soothe but do not significantly accelerate healing Following the soak, consider these natural topical treatments: Iodine-based solutions, such as diluted Vetadine spray, applied twice daily Products like Durasole and Thrush Buster for their hoof-hardening and antimicrobial properties Herbal mixes containing ingredients like tea tree oil, garlic, or aloe vera It is important to cover the treated area to keep out dirt and help the medication stay in place. 3. Nutritional Support: The Internal Approach The key to preventing and curing seedy toe may lie in the diet. Balanced minerals, especially copper and zinc, are vital for healthy hoof development and immune defense. Practical experience shows: Horses benefit from a custom mineral mix that addresses deficiencies A diet that includes biotin, methionine, zinc, and copper supports keratin synthesis and hoof integrity Ensuring gut health and immune function helps resist infections Products like the Best Guess Mineral Mix have been recommended to fill nutritional gaps for hoof repair. 4. Environmental and Management Adjustments Environmental factors play a significant role. Keep the horse's environment dry and clean to avoid excess moisture, which exacerbates infections. Stable overnight and use dry ground turnout during the day Implement well-drained pastures with lime or crushed limestone Ensure regular movement to improve circulation and reduce limb swelling Case Study and Results One case study involved a horse treated for seedy toe using a natural approach. The horse underwent surgical resection of the infected hoof section and received vitamin supplements and environmental adjustments: Regular trimming every five weeks encouraged healthy growth Topical application of Thrush Buster Nutritional supplementation and patience over a period of 3-4 months The positive outcome highlights that persistence in combining natural treatments with proper care yields results. Conclusion: The Holistic Path to Healthy Hooves Treating seedy toe emphasizes a holistic approach, balancing external care with internal health. By integrating correct trimming, natural antiseptic soaks, safe topical agents, balanced nutrition, and environmental adjustments, horse owners can effectively manage and often prevent seedy toe. This method reduces reliance on harsh chemicals and promotes sustainable equine care aligned with today's ethical standards. For quality horse riding equipment and supplements, explore our Jodhpur Collection, Horse Riding Boot Collection, and more at Just Horse Riders.```html```

Weve all seenand laughed atthe equestrians memes that poke fun at our lack of money. Our horse goes to the vet while we cant afford to go to the doctor. Our bodies are broken and yet we still ride. The list goes on. But when those memes are no longer funny, but sad and true, it can make you question the equestrian lifestyle.A Monumental DecisionFor me, it was a phone call with my dentist. I couldnt afford the yearly X-rays they were requiring before I could have a cleaning (I hadnt had a proper dental cleaning in longer than I care to admit). I started to cry on the phone because they wouldnt make an exception for me. When I hung up the phone, I stared at my budget on my computer and thought, I am 40 years old, what am I doing? I had no savings, no retirement plan. Thankfully no kids depend on me and my husband, but I am not super healthy. I was diagnosed with arthritis in my 20s and was told I was already halfway to osteoporosis due to low bone density. I havent seen a regular doctor since then.I spent the last several years showing a Gypsy Vanner maremy heart horse. I loved her more than anything else, except for my husband. My only friends were those I saw at horse shows and events. But all that money, along with Covid and a series of things breaking, including needing to replace all three of our cars, had led to mountains of debt. Those memes werent funny anymorethey were heartbreaking and stress-inducing.It was that day that I made the decision to get out of horses. The amount of money we had invested in a truck and trailer, tack, and the horses themselves was enough to completely pay off all our debt, except for my student loan. But also becauseif I was honest with myselfit was very hard on my body and caused a lot of pain.Saying Goodbye I feel like there are two types of riders. The ones that ride occasionally for the fun of it. They can ride or not ride; its not a big deal. My husband is that type. Then there are the ones where equestrian defines who they are. I am in the latter group. Getting out of horses was like removing my identity.Selling my heart horse meant saying goodbye to my best friend. I cried as if she had died. Non-horse people offered unhelpful statements like, Youll get another one someday when money is better. Only those who have owned a heart horse understand; they are not replaceable.Months passed and I wasnt getting better. Tears flowed whenever anything triggered me: a photo, a memory on Facebook, a song we did a freestyle to, or her namesake Disney character on someone elses feed. Since all my friends were horse people, I was suddenly alone, which didnt help the depression that was stifling me.I hit rock bottom when I sent a text to an old high school friend in another state: I cried most the day, had a fight with the husband, contemplated why Im even alive, then cried more. Life sucks right now. Selling the horse was the worst and I have no friends.At this point you may be judging me, thinking my reaction was a bit extreme. But when you dont have friends, and your horse was your sole means of socialization, losing everything at once can have serious effects on your mental health. Thats the spot I was in.Mini Steps When you start to think about not living, something needs to change. We had paid off all our debt and took a good look at the budget, deciding how much we wanted to save to finally have a safety net. We decided we could still meet our goals while owning a couple of Miniature Horses to mow the pastures and provide me with a horse fix.I am not going to lie and say it was an overnight fix. It wasnt, and still isnt. I havent bonded with Argyllmy 2-year-old Minilike I did with my heart horse. Will I in the future? I hope so. But he provides me with a reason to get outside.Kristina and Argyll. Photo by Brent LotzI am taking driving lessons with a lesson Mini to see if my body can handle it. If not, we can do in-hand things like tricks and trail. Showing is still not in the budget, but there are many free things like parades, walks on trails, and even the International Horse Agility Club offers reasonably priced online competition.As for my heart horse? We still dont say her name in the house. She has become a proper noun, Her, that is implicitly understood.I still cry sometimes, and I think I always will, but my heart is not heavy as it was. I can walk into the barn and hear whinnies again. I can smell a horse and feel his sweet nose on my faceArgyll loves to give kisses.Kristina in a lesson learning to drive Minis.I hope those of you in my position take heart. How you interact with horses may change due to finances or getting older, but there is always a way to have them in your life, even if it means volunteering at a riding center or downsizing.If you need horses in your life, find a way, because they are truly irreplaceable and the worlds best therapy.This article appeared in the July 2024 issue of Horse Illustratedmagazine.Click here to subscribe!The post Selling My Heart Horse CRon appeared first on Horse Illustrated Magazine.

Consideration Key Points Research and Local Connections - Start locally: saddle shops, riding academies, Pony Club - Be cautious with online sellers Know Your Needs - Consider age, temperament, and intended use - Consult trainers and equestrian friends Inspect the Pony - Visit in natural environment - Inquire about history and health - Verify passport and documentation Trial Period - Consider negotiating trial period - Observe for mismatches or quirks Legal Protection - Know your rights - Be aware of consumer protection laws Budget and Pricing - Set a budget - Prices vary based on age and experience Word of Mouth - Seek recommendations and breeder references - Connect with reputable dealers Professional Advice - Engage a veterinarian for pre-purchase exam - Ensure pony's health before purchase Deposit and Seriousness - Deposits signify purchase intent - Credited toward final purchase if sale proceeds Conclusion - Patience, research, and collaboration are key - Prioritize pony's welfare and your safety What Should You Consider When Buying a Pony from Unknown Dealers? Purchasing a pony can be an exciting venture, especially for those new to the equestrian world. However, when buying from unknown dealers, it's crucial to proceed with caution. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the essentials of making a wise and informed choice, ensuring both your safety and satisfaction. Research and Local Connections Start your search locally. By connecting with local saddle shops, riding academies, and members of The Pony Club, you can sometimes find ponies suitable for your needs right in your community. While the internet offers extensive options, approach online sellers cautiouslyespecially those you know little about. Know Your Needs Consider what you're looking for in a pony. Age, temperament, and intended use are just a few critical factors. Your trainer or equestrian friends can be invaluable resources in helping pinpoint the ideal pony that matches your riding style and aspirations. Inspect the Pony Schedule a visit to see the pony in its natural environment. Request that the pony not be exercised before your arrival, allowing you to observe its genuine characteristics. Ask detailed questions regarding its history, including breeding and any health challenges it might have encountered. Check Documentation Verifying the pony's passport is crucial. Ensure that its identity, age, and background align with the details provided by the seller, safeguarding you from potential mismatches. Trial Period Spending extended time with a pony before making a purchase can be beneficial. Consider negotiating a trial period, which could help uncover any mismatches in expectations or hidden quirks. Legal Protection Understanding your rights can shield you from unforeseen complications. If you're purchasing from a professional dealer, awareness of consumer protection laws like the Sale of Goods Act in the UK can ensure the pony meets satisfactory conditions. Budget and Pricing Have a well-defined budget in place. Prices can fluctuate drastically based on various criteria like age or experience. For example, a Dartmoor pony's price can soar from 800 for a foal to 20,000 for a skilled riding pony. Word of Mouth Sometimes the best leads come not from ads, but from recommendations. Engaging with experienced equestrians or browsing breeder references can connect you to reputable dealers, reducing risk in your purchase. Professional Advice Hiring a veterinarian for a pre-purchase examination is advisable. A thorough vet check can reveal potential health problems, offering peace of mind that you're investing in a healthy pony. Deposit and Seriousness Deposits can help signify the seriousness of your intent to purchase. Some sellers request them, crediting the amount towards the final purchase if the transaction proceeds. Conclusion Selecting the right pony involves patience, research, and collaboration. By following these considerations, you can aim to find a pony that fits your needs and provides years of enjoyment and companionship. Remember, your pony's welfare and your safety always come first.```html```

Key Points Details Breathing Importance Crucial for horse performance and well-being in competitive events. Respiratory Challenges Horses breathe through noses; nasal passage resistance affects efficiency, especially at high speeds. Key Challenges Upper Airway Resistance Maximal Oxygen Consumption Inspiratory Muscle Training (IMT) IMT uses a mask with resistance to enhance inspiratory muscle strength. How IMT Works Resistance Training Training Protocol Benefits: Reduced risk of airway collapse Nasal Strips Reduces nasal passage resistance, optimizes stride during exercise. Conditioning & Acclimatization Regular exercise & gradual adaptation to intense workouts improve respiratory efficiency. Implementation Steps Consult a Veterinarian Incorporate IMT Use Nasal Strips Monitor Progress Explore Supplements Conclusion Understanding respiratory challenges and employing techniques like IMT optimize horse performance. Mastering Breath Control: Techniques for Overcoming Gasping in Competitive Equestrian Events Breathing is crucial for the performance and well-being of horses in competitive equestrian events. Efficient respiratory function can mean the difference between victory and defeat. In this blog, we will explore techniques to improve respiratory efficiency and overcome gasping, ensuring that both horses and riders perform at their best. Understanding Respiratory Challenges in Horses Horses, unlike humans, breathe exclusively through their noses, which means that nasal passage resistance plays a significant role in their respiratory efficiency. At high speeds, such as during galloping, a horse's breathing is synchronized with its stride, making resistance to airflow critical for maintaining optimal performance. Any increase in breathing resistance can lead to inefficient oxygen intake, impacting both stride length and overall performance. Key Respiratory Challenges: Upper Airway Resistance: The nasopharynx, larynx, and trachea in horses contribute significantly to airflow resistance, especially during inspiration, which can reach about 95% of total resistance. This resistance is exacerbated by conditions such as upper airway collapse. Maximal Oxygen Consumption: Thoroughbred and Standardbred racehorses have a maximum oxygen consumption that is about 40 times greater than at rest, highlighting the immense respiratory demands of high-intensity exercise. Techniques for Improving Respiratory Efficiency Inspiratory Muscle Training (IMT) Inspiratory muscle training has been borrowed from human medicine and applied to horses. This technique involves using a mask with controlled resistance to enhance inspiratory muscle strength. Studies have shown that IMT can significantly increase inspiratory muscle strength in horses, potentially improving performance by reducing the effort required for breathing. How IMT Works: Resistance Training: Horses are gradually acclimated to wearing a mask with valves that increase resistance to inhalation. Training Protocol: Sessions typically involve 30 "loaded" breaths, followed by a rest period, and then another set. The resistance is adjusted based on the horse's response. Benefits: Improved inspiratory muscle strength, particularly beneficial for reducing the risk of upper airway collapse. Nasal Strips FLAIR Equine Nasal Strips are crafted to support nasal passages during exercise, reducing resistance caused by nasal passage collapse. These strips have been clinically proven to make breathing easier, allowing horses to use less energy and optimize their stride. This can be especially beneficial in competitive events where every fraction of a second counts (source). Proper Conditioning and Acclimatization Regular exercise and gradual acclimatization to intense workouts are crucial for improving a horse's respiratory efficiency. This includes ensuring that the horse is adequately conditioned to handle the demands of competitive events without excessive strain on the respiratory system. Implementing Techniques in Competitive Equestrian Events Step-by-Step Guide to Improving Respiratory Efficiency: Consult a Veterinarian: Before starting any new training program, consult with a veterinarian to ensure that your horse is healthy enough for increased respiratory demands. Incorporate IMT: Gradually introduce IMT into your training routine, starting with low resistance levels and increasing them over time. Use Nasal Strips: Consider using nasal strips during high-intensity training sessions to support nasal passages and reduce breathing resistance. Monitor Progress: Regularly assess your horse's respiratory efficiency and performance to adjust training strategies as needed. Explore Supplements: Consider equine supplements to support overall health and enhance respiratory function. Conclusion Mastering breath control is essential for competitive equestrian events. By understanding the respiratory challenges faced by horses and employing techniques like IMT and nasal strips, riders can optimize their horse's performance while ensuring their well-being. Remember, every improvement in respiratory efficiency can translate into better results on the track or course. To further support your equine friend, explore Just Horse Riders' extensive range of equestrian apparel and horse treats to enhance your riding experience.```html```

The penultimate leg of the DAFM showjumping Studbook Series took place at Maryville Stables during their Summer Show. This was a two-day leg with the qualifier classes on Saturday 5th and the finals on Sunday 6th of July. The series is delivered by Horse Sport Ireland, and funded by the Department of Agriculture, Food, and the Marine (DAFM) under National Breeding Services.The five-year-olds kicked off on the Saturday with 33 entries. Twenty-one of these combinations jumped a double clear to split the 1,000 prize fund, with the top 25 proceeding to Sundays final. The 2,500 prize fund was split between fourteen double clears on the final day, one of which was the Belgian Warmblood stallion Unicum-H (BWP) who holds the top spot in the league heading into the final.Of the twenty-nine entries in the 6-year-old category, the 1,000 prize money was again split between 21 double clear rounds. For the first time in the series, the 6-year-old horses jumped off for their placings on the final day and it was BP Hello Emerald (ISH), ridden by Leah Stack who came out on top.Gemma Phelan dominated the 7-year-old qualifier filling the top two places with GRC Casper (ISH) and GRC Mercedes (ISH) respectively. Phelans strong performance continued to Sunday, again filling the top two places with the same two mounts. The podium was filled by Tony ODonohue riding Glenfield Harrington (ISH).The final of the series will take place at National Balmoral on the 19th and 20th of July. More information about the series is available by clickingHEREFull results are available for the Maryville leg onSJI LiveCurrent league tables are available below:5yr Old League6yr Old League7yr Old LeagueBreeding:Unicum-H (BWP): 2020 stallion by President (KWPN), out of Jewel Vita-H (BWP), by Cicero Z Van Paemal (BWP). Bred by Victor Hermans, Belgium.BP Hello Emerald (ISH): 2019 mare by Emerald Vant Ruytershof (BWP) out of Persian Royale (ISH), by HHS Br Charlton (ISH). Bred by Pamela OEyre, C/O Ballyatrick Stables, county Tipperary.GRC Casper (ISH): 2018 gelding by Sandokan 290 (HANN), out of GRC Sunrise (ISH), by Luidam (KWPN). Bred by Rory Costigan, county Tipperary.GRC Mercedes (ISH): 2018 mare by Luidam (KWPN), out of Loughnavatta Osprey (ISH), by Chacco Blue (MECKL). Bred by Rory Costigan, county Tipperary.Glenfield Harrington (ISH): 2018 mare by Clarimo (HOLST), out of Mullentine Good Friday (ISH), by Untouchable 27 (KWPN). Bred by Alan Robertson, county TyroneThis series is funded by the Department of Agriculture, Food, and the Marine (DAFM) under National Breeding ServicesThe post DAFM Studbook Series Leg 6 Maryville Stables appeared first on Horse Sport Ireland.

Weve all seenand laughed atthe equestrians memes that poke fun at our lack of money. Our horse goes to the vet while we cant afford to go to the doctor. Our bodies are broken and yet we still ride. The list goes on. But when those memes are no longer funny, but sad and true, it can make you question the equestrian lifestyle.A Monumental DecisionFor me, it was a phone call with my dentist. I couldnt afford the yearly X-rays they were requiring before I could have a cleaning (I hadnt had a proper dental cleaning in longer than I care to admit). I started to cry on the phone because they wouldnt make an exception for me. When I hung up the phone, I stared at my budget on my computer and thought, I am 40 years old, what am I doing? I had no savings, no retirement plan. Thankfully no kids depend on me and my husband, but I am not super healthy. I was diagnosed with arthritis in my 20s and was told I was already halfway to osteoporosis due to low bone density. I havent seen a regular doctor since then.I spent the last several years showing a Gypsy Vanner maremy heart horse. I loved her more than anything else, except for my husband. My only friends were those I saw at horse shows and events. But all that money, along with Covid and a series of things breaking, including needing to replace all three of our cars, had led to mountains of debt. Those memes werent funny anymorethey were heartbreaking and stress-inducing.It was that day that I made the decision to get out of horses. The amount of money we had invested in a truck and trailer, tack, and the horses themselves was enough to completely pay off all our debt, except for my student loan. But also becauseif I was honest with myselfit was very hard on my body and caused a lot of pain.Saying Goodbye I feel like there are two types of riders. The ones that ride occasionally for the fun of it. They can ride or not ride; its not a big deal. My husband is that type. Then there are the ones where equestrian defines who they are. I am in the latter group. Getting out of horses was like removing my identity.Selling my heart horse meant saying goodbye to my best friend. I cried as if she had died. Non-horse people offered unhelpful statements like, Youll get another one someday when money is better. Only those who have owned a heart horse understand; they are not replaceable.Months passed and I wasnt getting better. Tears flowed whenever anything triggered me: a photo, a memory on Facebook, a song we did a freestyle to, or her namesake Disney character on someone elses feed. Since all my friends were horse people, I was suddenly alone, which didnt help the depression that was stifling me.I hit rock bottom when I sent a text to an old high school friend in another state: I cried most the day, had a fight with the husband, contemplated why Im even alive, then cried more. Life sucks right now. Selling the horse was the worst and I have no friends.At this point you may be judging me, thinking my reaction was a bit extreme. But when you dont have friends, and your horse was your sole means of socialization, losing everything at once can have serious effects on your mental health. Thats the spot I was in.Mini Steps When you start to think about not living, something needs to change. We had paid off all our debt and took a good look at the budget, deciding how much we wanted to save to finally have a safety net. We decided we could still meet our goals while owning a couple of Miniature Horses to mow the pastures and provide me with a horse fix.I am not going to lie and say it was an overnight fix. It wasnt, and still isnt. I havent bonded with Argyllmy 2-year-old Minilike I did with my heart horse. Will I in the future? I hope so. But he provides me with a reason to get outside.Kristina and Argyll. Photo by Brent LotzI am taking driving lessons with a lesson Mini to see if my body can handle it. If not, we can do in-hand things like tricks and trail. Showing is still not in the budget, but there are many free things like parades, walks on trails, and even the International Horse Agility Club offers reasonably priced online competition.As for my heart horse? We still dont say her name in the house. She has become a proper noun, Her, that is implicitly understood.I still cry sometimes, and I think I always will, but my heart is not heavy as it was. I can walk into the barn and hear whinnies again. I can smell a horse and feel his sweet nose on my faceArgyll loves to give kisses.Kristina in a lesson learning to drive Minis.I hope those of you in my position take heart. How you interact with horses may change due to finances or getting older, but there is always a way to have them in your life, even if it means volunteering at a riding center or downsizing.If you need horses in your life, find a way, because they are truly irreplaceable and the worlds best therapy.This article appeared in the July 2024 issue of Horse Illustratedmagazine.Click here to subscribe!The post Selling My Heart Horse appeared first on Horse Illustrated Magazine.

A new study has found that wearing more than one rug significantly decreases a horses stride length.The preliminary study by BHSI Melissa Troup and colleagues from the McTimoney College of Chiropractic examined 12 riding school horses over 28 days.The horses were split into two groups.Group one wore a single 200g turnout rug for the duration of the study, while group two wore two 100g turnout rugs for the same period.Initial stride measurements were taken at the start of the study when horses wore no rug and when wearing one and two rugs.Measurements were then taken again on day 28 using digital video and Kinovea software.In order to attain the measurements, a digital video camera recorded each of the 12 horses walking a straight 10m length line in an indoor school. Five stride lengths for each limb were recorded for each horse.Study findingsThe research showed a significant reduction in stride length for the second group of horses, in contrast to group ones stride length, which remained similar to the initial measurements.This is embryonic research into the effect that layering rugs can have on the horses stride length, said Melissa. Inevitably, it has raised more questions and I hope this will motivate further studies in the future.A statement said that layering a horses rugs for warmth is common practice. It stated that this research provides data for consideration among horse owners when making decisions about rugging.Understanding the biomechanical implications of rug use can help owners make more informed choices to support their horses comfort and wellbeing, added Melissa.Researchers also concluded that wearing rugs and the number of rugs worn has an effect on walk stride length, indicating a potential effect on horses musculoskeletal system. View the study in full online (page 464 section 197)Main image ShutterstockRelated contentTherapy rugs tried and tested to find which really workWhen do horses feel cold? Dr David Marlin explainsBest exercise sheets: assessed for effectiveness, fit and value for moneyExperts explain when to put a rug on a horse (and when not to)The post Layering rugs significantly decreases a horses stride length, study finds appeared first on Your Horse.