Badminton Horse Trials was saddened to hear of the passing of Biddy Wingfield Digby, one of the first women to compete at the inaugural Badminton Horse Trials in 1949.Biddy was one of a handful of women to compete at the first ever event having never undertaken a dressage test like many of her fellow 22 competitors. Riding Brigadier Martins Black Boy, Biddy recalled her memories of the event which included the ever-popular drinks party hosted by the Duke and Duchess of Beaufort where her fellow guests included both Princess Margaret and Princess Elizabeth.Having walked the cross country twice Biddys event was sadly curtailed following the final roads and tracks when her horse became unwell. Her borrowed groom had thought it helpful to give the horse 10lbs of corn the evening before cross country to aid his energy levels causing the horse to not feel himself and his withdrawal before starting the much-anticipated cross country course.Whilst Biddy became a well-known rider of point-to-points, a Master of the Blackford Vale and a key member of the Pony Club she has said that not completing Badminton became one of the biggest disappointments of her equestrian life.A Service of Thanksgiving will be held on Wednesday 23rd July at 3.30pm at Sherborne Abbey, Sherborne, Dorset.

Ocala, FL A picturesque, sunny Florida morning set the scene on Thursday for the highlight event of the day, the $32,000 Lugano Grand Prix Qualifier CSI3*. Twenty-five horse-and-rider combinations representing 10 countries vied for top honors, but it was Spains Gonzalo Busca who emerged victorious aboard his own Cristiano Obolensky (Cornet Obolensky x Stakkato). FEI Level IV course designer Anderson Lima (MEX) set a[...]Read MoreThe post Gonzalo Busca & Cristiano Obolensky Shine in the $32,000 Lugano Grand Prix Qualifier CSI3* appeared first on World Equestrian Center.

On a rollercoaster day for in A Coruna, Ireland made a medal move in the FEI Jumping European Championship.Pre-competition on day two of action in Spain, overnight individual leader Daniel Coyle made the decision to withdraw his fantastic mare Legacy from the remainder of the competition.While it wouldnt have an impact on Irelands score tally, there was a sense that perhaps the team was galvinised by the withdrawl and they produced a zero score for round one of the team final, keeping the boys in green on a team total of 8.39 and a fourth-place position at the end of day two.Horse Sport Ireland High Performance Show Jumping Director Michael Blake said: That was great we knew that a zero score was required today, otherwise a medal was realistically out of our grasp, with the way the teams above us are jumping.The lads took that pressure on their shoulders and delivered out there, and as a result it is most definitely all to play for.First Denis Lynch and Vistogrand repeated yesterdays clear round, then Seamus Hughes Kennedy did the same with the Ennisnag Stud-bred ESI Rocky (ISH).With combinations from teams above the Irish faltering, and Britain suffering a blow as Matthew Sampson was eliminated with Medoc De Toxandria, a door had been left ajar with two Irish combinations still to jumpBertram Allen was third in with Qonquest De Rigo and like yesterday, it was just one pole falling as he finished on four faults. Over to Darragh Kenny and Eddy Blue, who delivered the all-important faultless round to leave Ireland on their overnight score and fighting for medals.Britain remain in the lead on 3.96, with Germany second on 4.19 and Belgium in third, less than a pole ahead of Ireland on 4.61.Individually, two of the Irish, Seamus Hughes Kennedy and Denis Lynch are inside the top 10, with Hughes Kennedy in ninth and Lynch in tenth. Kenny sits in 25th position and Allen in 43rd.Earlier, Coyle made the decision to withdrawn Legacy from competing, with the mares interests at the forefront of the decision.Coyle said: Ariel and I both feel that if we jump all of the rounds here, there will be nothing left for the rest of the year. We are now looking forward to the Dublin Horse Show next month and Legacy competing in front of the home crowd at the RDS.The post Ireland move to fourth at European Championship, with Hughes Kennedy and Lynch inside top 10 appeared first on Horse Sport Ireland.

Pulsed electromagnetic field therapy (PEMF) can temporarily reduce lameness and inflammation from equine osteoarthritis a common degenerative health condition in ageing horses but does not appear to produce long-term improvements, new research has shown.PEMF therapy is used across human and veterinary medicine to help musculoskeletal issues and manage pain.It works by stimulating cellular activity, potentially encouraging tissue regeneration, reducing inflammation and improving circulation.The researchResearchers at Colorado State University set out to see if the use of a Magnawave machine could help older equines with lameness associated with osteoarthritis.Six middle-aged Thoroughbred mares were given 30 minutes treatment at a power level of two.Then a vet who was not aware of the horses previous history gave them flexion tests at one hour, one day and a one week after treatment.The researchers also assessed the horses lameness at each point using inertia sensors.While the vet reported an improvement in lameness an hour after treatment, there was no improvement in the asymmetry scores of any of the mares recorded with the sensors.Blood inflammation markers were noted to decrease one hour after treatment but rose again to baseline or higher at 24 hours and a week after the treatment.Our study highlights the need for continued standardisation of PEMF treatments to enhance outcomes, said researcher Isla Wilson.Common joint problemOsteoarthritis, also known as degenerative joint disease, is the most common joint problem in horses, accounting for more than 60% of equine lameness.It can occur in any joint and is a degeneration of the cartilage that can be caused by repetitive trauma, old injuries, and conformation traits that increase stress on joints. It gets steadily worse with age.Many horses are treated for this wear and tear with steroid injections into the joint.The research was presented at the 2025 Equine Science Symposium. You can read a precis of the research here.Main image ShutterstockRelated contentHow to tell if a horse is lameCold-backed horse? Vet explains what you can do to helpThis is how a horses joint work, plus vet advice to keep them healthyThe post Effects of electromagetic therapy on horses with osteoarthritis are temporary, finds research appeared first on Your Horse.

Key Points Details Definition Hock splints are characterized by inflammation and bony growth on the splint bones near the hock joint of a horse's hind leg. Myths Myth 1: Splints are always caused by trauma. Reality: Other causes include repeated concussion, poor conformation, and imbalanced hooves. Myth 2: Splints always cause lameness. Reality: Not all splints lead to lameness. Myth 3: Surgery is always needed. Reality: Surgery is reserved for severe or chronic cases. Causes & Risk Factors Excessive strain, trauma, poor conformation, and inflammatory responses. Signs & Diagnosis Pain, heat, swelling, potential lameness, confirmed through palpation and radiographs. Treatment Options Rest: Stall rest, followed by controlled walking. Anti-inflammatory medications: Use of NSAIDs. Cold therapy: Icing or cold hosing for fresh splints. Supportive care: Techniques like pressure wraps. Surgery: For severe cases disrupting joint movement. Prognosis & Recovery Excellent recovery with proper rest and treatment. Less favorable prognosis if joint is involved. Prevention involves addressing conformation and hoof balance. Prevention Tips Gradually increase workload. Maintain proper hoof trimming and shoeing. Use protective boots for prone horses. Ensure a proper diet for bone health. Conclusion Effective management of hock splints ensures horses return to performance. Visit Just Horse Riders for resources. Exploring the Myths and Realities of Hock Splints in Horses: What You Need to Know Hock splints stand as a perplexing concern for many horse owners, cascading a plethora of misconceptions and misunderstandings. In this comprehensive guide, we'll delve into what hock splints truly are, debunk some common myths, and explore various treatment and prevention strategies to help maintain your horse's health and performance. What Are Hock Splints? The term hock splints refers to a condition characterized by the inflammation and bony growth on the splint bones, located near the hock joint of a horse's hind leg. These splint bones are located alongside the larger cannon bone and can become irritated due to several factors. Common Myths About Hock Splints Myth 1: Splints Are Always Caused by Trauma. Reality: While trauma can be a cause, repeated concussion, poor conformation, imbalanced hooves, or excessive workloads during early training can also contribute to splints [1][4]. Myth 2: Splints Always Cause Lameness. Reality: Not all splints lead to lameness. Some horses might experience swelling and heat without exhibiting lameness, while acute cases could lead to pain and lameness [3][5]. Myth 3: Surgery Is Always Needed. Reality: Many splints can be managed conservatively, but surgery is reserved for severe or chronic cases [1][5]. Causes and Risk Factors Hock splints can result from several factors, including: Excessive or repetitive strain during intense training or lack of conditioning. Direct trauma, such as kicks or brushing limbs. Poor conformation and hoof balance. Inflammatory responses contributing to new bone growth [1][2][4]. Signs and Diagnosis Key signs of hock splints include: Pain and heat localized around the hock splint bone. Swelling either visible or palpable on the inner or outer sides of the hock. Potential lameness or uneven gait [3][4]. Veterinarians confirm the diagnosis through palpation and radiographs (X-rays) to differentiate between types and assess severity [4]. Treatment Options The main objective of treatment for hock splints involves reducing inflammation, allowing healing, and minimizing pain: Rest: Stall rest is typically recommended for 30 to 45 days, followed by controlled hand-walking [1][2]. Anti-inflammatory medications: NSAIDs such as phenylbutazone are commonly prescribed [2][3]. Cold therapy: Icing or cold hosing can be useful in managing fresh splints [1][3]. Supportive care: Incorporating techniques like pressure wraps and therapeutic modalities can expedite healing [1][2]. Surgery: Reserved for severe cases that disrupt joint movement [1][5]. Prognosis & Recovery Most horses show excellent recovery with proper rest and treatment. The prognosis may be less favorable if the splint involves the joint. Prevention of re-injury involves addressing conformation issues and improving hoof balance. Prevention Tips Gradually increase the workload to avoid excessive strain. Maintain proper hoof trimming and shoeing. Use protective boots for horses prone to interference injuries. Ensure a proper diet to support bone health and repair. Conclusion By dispelling myths and embracing facts, horse owners can more effectively manage hock splints, ensuring their horses return to sound performance. For an assortment of Everyday Horse Vitamins & Supplements, visit Just Horse Riders for more information and resources to keep your equine companion in peak condition. ```html```

Section Key Points The Botanic Basics: What Is Ragwort? - UK-native biennial/perennial plant - Yellow flowers from June to November - Supports 30+ pollinator species - Classified as a weed in agriculture The Poisonous Problem: Why Is Ragwort Feared by Farmers? - Contains harmful pyrrolizidine alkaloids - Affects livestock: horses, cattle, sheep, goats - Symptoms: liver failure, weight loss, death - Economic impact: reduces pasture productivity The Conservation Case: The Ecological Value of Ragwort - Crucial for 30+ pollinator species - Supports wildflower meadows, biodiversity - Signifies robust ecosystems in rewilding projects The Controversy: Managing Risk in a Rewilding Era - Divides agriculture and conservation stakeholders - Farmers view as a danger; conservationists value ecological benefits - Accidental ingestion risks for livestock, especially in hay Practical Solutions: Coexistence and Control Agriculture-Focused Strategies - Mechanical control: mowing, pulling - Chemical control: herbicides - Pasture management: dense grass growth Conservation-Focused Strategies - Biological control: natural predators - Zoning: buffer parcels - Public education on risks and benefits The Human Factor: Risk Perception and Policy - Public opinion diverges on ragwort's threat vs. ecological value - Balance necessary between preserving animal welfare and biodiversity Conclusion: A Call for Balanced Management - Ragwort vital yet venomous - Science-centered strategies for farmers and conservation goals - Actionable tips for stakeholders Ragwort and Rewilding: Navigating the Controversy of a Poisonous Plant in Modern Agriculture The vibrant yellow flowers of ragwort (Jacobaea vulgaris) may be charming to the eye, but beneath this sunny facade lies a contentious debate in the world of agriculture and conservation. As rewilding becomes a popular trend, promoting the return of land to nature, farmers, conservationists, and policymakers must navigate the balance between ragwort's ecological benefits and its known threats. This blog aims to illuminate the topic from every angle, offering insights and practical advice for a harmonious coexistence. The Botanic Basics: What Is Ragwort? Ragwort is a UK-native biennial or perennial, identifiable by its bright yellow flower clusters that bloom from June to November. This plant flourishes in wastelands, pastures, and conservation lands, often growing up to a meter tall and forming denser growth than surrounding vegetation. Despite its classification as a weed in agriculture, ragwort supports over 30 species of pollinators, including the daisy carpenter bee and the cinnabar moth. However, its reputation among farmers is less rosy. The Poisonous Problem: Why Is Ragwort Feared by Farmers? All parts of the ragwort plant contain pyrrolizidine alkaloids, toxins notoriously harmful to livestock like horses, cattle, sheep, and goats (Agriculture Victoria). The threat spirals when toxins, accumulated over time, impair the liver, resulting in symptoms such as weight loss, jaundice, sensitiveness to light, and severe cases of death. Unfortunately, even small amounts are lethal if inadvertently mixed into hay. Toxicity: Ragwort remains poisonous in both its fresh and dried states. Symptoms: Liver failure, photosensitisation, weight loss, and death could occur in extreme cases. Livestock Impact: Dairy cattle taint milk when grazed on ragwort, endangering all grazing animals. Economic Impact: This weed inhibits pasture productivity, thus reducing agricultural land value. The Conservation Case: The Ecological Value of Ragwort Despite the notoriety, ragwort plays a pivotal role in ecosystems. It is crucial for feeding more than 30 pollinator species, supporting biodiversity. Embraced by bees and butterflies, its seeds spread widely, sustaining wildflower meadows and roadside verges. In rewilding projects, ragwort signifies robust ecosystems, located in areas intended for biodiversity restoration. Nonetheless, its encroachment into farming lands raises concerns for livestock safety. The Controversy: Managing Risk in a Rewilding Era The divide between agriculture and rewilding is evident as the ragwort dilemma intensifies. Farmers view it as a persistent danger, prompting strict control measures, while conservationists emphasize its pollinator benefits. In regions like the UK, ragwort represents a native plant valued for its role in nature yet feared for its toxic potential. Even with animals typically avoiding its bitter taste, accidental ingestion (like in hay) results in severe consequences (Wikipedia). Moreover, proven cases of poisoning, though rare, are concerning enough for the farming community. Practical Solutions: Coexistence and Control Agriculture-Focused Strategies Mechanical Control: Regular flower removal through mowing or pulling controls seed spread. Chemical Control: Herbicides target ragwort but may conflict with organic objectives. Pasture Management: Dense, competitive grass growth naturally controls ragwort. Conservation-Focused Strategies Biological Control: Introducing natural ragwort predators, such as the flea beetle, hinders growth. For example, in the US Northwest, this method achieved dedicated control (Oregon State University). Zoning: Buffer parcels between rewilded lands and agricultural plots prevent ragwort spread. Public Education: Informing communities about ragwort risks and benefits aids in diverse land management decisions. The Human Factor: Risk Perception and Policy Public opinion diverges between categorizing ragwort as a threat and praising its ecological value. The way forward lies in balancing both aspects, assessing each situation carefully. Management implementation must preserve animal welfare and biodiversity to foster open dialogue and effective methods. Conclusion: A Call for Balanced Management Ragwort embodies a paradoxvital yet venomous. Thus, finding common ground in rewilding and agriculture remains crucial. Science-centered strategies respecting farmers' livelihoods as well as conservation goals promise the best results. Actionable Takeaways: Livestock Owners: Remain vigilant about pasture upkeep and forage quality to stave off accidental ingestion. Land Managers: Consider applying biocontrol and habitat zoning measures when feasible. All Stakeholders: Engage in discussions for regionally tailored approaches protecting both animals and ecosystems. Further Reading & Trusted Resources For deeper dives, explore these authoritative sources: Discover Wildlife: Comprehensive insights about ragwort's ecological significance and risks. Agriculture Victoria: Detailed account of ragwort's agricultural effects and solutions. Oregon State University Extension: Case study on biological control of ragwort. Wikipedia: Overview of ragwort's toxicology and environmental role. The Donkey Sanctuary: Guide on ragwort poisoning for horse and livestock care. By grounding management decisions in contemporary research and collaborating across disciplines, the ragwort controversy can be surmountedprotecting both animals and our cherished wild landscapes for future generations.```html```

A very special foal at the Minnesota Zoo in the USA is back on his hooves after nearly dying of sepsis and its all thanks to the care of an unlikely foster mum from a different subspecies.The foal, named Marat, is now thriving under the care of a grey mare called Alice. She is a pony of the Americas a breed originally developed in Iowa during the 1950s for Western riding and had recently lost her own filly foal.Marat was born nine weeks ago on 17 May to mum Nady, an Asian wild horse (Przewalskis). However, he became critically ill and required intensive care soon after birth.Marat was born with some limb problems that made it hard for him to stand up straight, said Dr Annie Rivas, the zoos director of animal health. Because he was struggling to keep up with mom in the herd, he was spending a lot of time lying down on the ground and unfortunately developed bacterial sepsis. So, he was very, very sick.Marat was transferred to the University of Minnesota Veterinary Medical Centre for emergency treatment. He made a full recovery, however, the temporary separation led to his mother rejecting him. This behaviour is not uncommon in wild horses after a period of separation.Newborn Marat with his dam, Nady, who later rejected himA foster mumThat left us with, what are we going to do with this foal? said Dr Rivas. We could hand-rear him, but were not going to be the ones who are the best at teaching him how to be a horse especially a wild horse.Help arrived in the shape of Alice, a gentle and experienced mare living on a small ranch in North Dakota.She was offered as a surrogate for the orphaned Przewalskis foal by her owners Sylvia and Jeff Passow.Despite being a distantly related species, Alices gentle nature and mothering instinct meant that the pair quickly bonded. It was a perfect fairy-tale ending. They just bonded [just] like that, said Dr Rivas.VideoA fairy tale endingAlice and Marat are now settled at the zoos Wells Fargo Family Farm, where visitors can watch them enjoying the sunshine.Despite a genetic divide going back more than 40,000 years, the duo show that love and mothering can transcend species.This is the kind of story that reminds us of what conservation is all about: collaboration, compassion, and hope, said Randy Kochevar, chief animal care, health, conservation and behaviour officer at Minnesota Zoo. Thanks to the Passows generosity and Alices instinct, this endangered foal now has a second chance.Alice, a domestic horse, has adopted the Przewalskis foalBack from extinctionMarat, which means one who is brave, is the latest in a growing line of more than 50 foals that have been born at the zoo. Przewalskis are considered the only remaining wild horse species, with fewer than 2,000 in existence today. It means that each foal is critical to the species survival.They were once extinct in the wild, but thanks to global conservation efforts this hardy breed has made a remarkable return.The Przewalskis horse is smaller than most domestic horses. They typically have stocky bodies, large heads, upright manes and a dark eel stripe on their dun coats. These wild Mongolian horses are named after Russian geographer Nikolay Przhevalsky.Images & video footage supplied by Minnesota ZooRelated contentBirth of rare Przewalskis foal in the UK boosts endangered speciesPlasma treatment saves the life of newborn foal born to rescue mareFive-day-old foal found with jaw hanging out of placeNewborn foal hooves are fascinating heres whyWhy an in-season mare shouldnt be described as moodyThe post Endangered Przewalskis foal rejected by mother after emergency surgery is adopted by grey mare appeared first on Your Horse.