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

According to the Georgia Department of Agriculture, one horse in Fulton County has tested positive for West Nile virus (WNV). This is Georgias first confirmed case of WNV in 2025.EDCC Health Watch is an Equine Network marketing program that utilizes information from the Equine Disease Communication Center (EDCC) to create and disseminate verified equine disease reports. TheEDCCis an independent nonprofit organization that is supported by industry donations in order to provide open access to infectious disease information.WNV 101West Nile virusis transmitted to horses via bites from infected mosquitoes. Not all infected horses show clinical signs, but those that do can exhibit:Flulike signs, where the horse seems mildly anorexic and depressed;Fine and coarse muscle and skin fasciculation (involuntary twitching);Hyperesthesia (hypersensitivity to touch and sound);Changes in mentation (mental activity), when horses look like theyre daydreaming or just not with it;Occasional drowsiness;Propulsive walking (driving or pushing forward, often without control); andSpinal signs, including asymmetrical weakness; andAsymmetrical or symmetrical ataxia.West Nile virus has no cure. However, some horses can recover with supportive care. Equine mortality rates can reach 30-40%.Studies have shown thatvaccines can be effective WNV prevention tools. Horses vaccinated in past years need an annual booster shot, but veterinarians might recommend two boosters annuallyone in the spring and another in the fallin areas with prolonged mosquito seasons. In contrast, previously unvaccinated horses require a two-shot vaccination series in a three- to six-week period. It takes several weeks for horses to develop protection against the disease following complete vaccination or booster administration.In addition to vaccinations, owners should work to reduce mosquito population and breeding areas and limit horses mosquito exposure by:Removing stagnant water sources;Dumping, cleaning, and refilling water buckets and troughs regularly;Keeping animals inside during insect feeding times (typically early in the morning and evening); andApplying mosquito repellents approved for equine use.

Barbie is entering the wonderful world of hacking a horse, with Barbie Horse Trails set to arrive on computer screens and games consoles this October.The new single-player adventure game will take players on a journey through the landscapes of Canterbury Trails Park aboard a horse called Lucky. Your trusty steed will also need cleaning, grooming, general pampering, and feeding.Characters can be customised to wear the riding gear of your choosing. Find collectible chests along the way with outfits, gear, tack, and colourful accessories like braids and ribbons inside.In the images we were sent, though, Barbie seems to be lacking in the helmet department*. On the plus side, bridles appear to be bitless (Barbie isnt even holding the reins in the image above). Her horse is also in good condition (which isnt code for carrying too much weight on this occasion, but this might change by the look of all that lush grass). Grooming before riding!Side missions and fun challengesChoose to play as Barbie Brooklyn Roberts or Barbie Malibu Roberts.Team up with Park Rangers and Kens aunt, Lady Carson, to refresh and beautify Canterbury Trails Park.There will also be side missions and fun challenges to take on alongside Barbies pals, Ken, Teresa, Nikki, and Daisy.Players will also collaborate with archaeologist Dr Potts to unearth ancient ceramics, follow clues, and solve a mystery horse quest.All this while exploring diverse environments, like wildflower meadows, lush forests, mountains, and peaceful lakes.Customise your BarbieA hands-on adventureErika Winterholler, who heads up the business development and digital gaming at Mattel, said the creators were aiming to achieve a rich, hands-on adventure rooted in exploration and creativity.From riding through unique environments to customising characters and completing in-game challenges, the gameplay is designed to be immersive, engaging, and fun for all ages, she said.Weve created a game that immerses players in a beautiful open-world environment full of exciting adventures, making it an experience that fans of all ages will love.Where to buyBarbie Horse Trails is available to download from Friday, October 10, 2025 on Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, and on a PC through Steam.*Please always wear a riding helmet when in the saddle.More from Your HorseHow to tell if a horse is happy5 things your horses vet really wishes you wouldnt doLearn to read your horses body languageMasta rugs, a new bridle or something else? Fab prizes up for grabsThe post Barbie goes hacking in new computer game, but she forgot her helmet appeared first on Your Horse.

Section Key Points Streamline Your Horse Riding Experience Just Horse Riders offers apparel, supplements, and gear to enhance horse riding. The Importance of Quality Horse Riding Apparel Quality apparel like riding breeches and boots impact comfort and performance. Why Jodhpurs Matter Jodhpurs provide flexibility and grip for comfort and ease of movement. The Helmets That Protect Riding helmets offer protection and style during riding. Enhancing the Equestrian Experience with Equestrian Supplements Supplements ensure horse health and improve performance and immunity. The Role of Supplements Supplements prevent deficiencies and aid in muscle health and recovery. Choosing the Right Riding Boots Properly fitted boots ensure safety and comfort during rides. The Perfect Fit Proper boot fit prevents discomfort and accidents. Grooming the Horse for Optimal Performance Regular grooming maintains horse health and appearance. Essentials of Horse Grooming Use tools like hoof picks, brushes to prevent health issues and build bonds. Horse Treats and Rewards Treats encourage performance and obedience in training. Investing in Protective Gear Protective gear like gloves and socks are essential for rider safety. Horse Fly Protection Fly protection gear prevents irritation and maintains horse well-being. Riding Arenas: The Ultimate Riding Grounds The riding location affects rider confidence and experience. Turnout and Stable Rugs for Horses Rugs keep horses comfortable and shielded from weather elements. Summary and Takeaway Just Horse Riders provide apparel, supplements, and gear to enhance horse riding. Streamline Your Horse Riding Experience with Just Horse RidersHorse riding is not just an activity; it's a journey filled with thrill, passion, and elegance. Whether you're a seasoned equestrian or a curious newbie, Just Horse Riders has everything you need to enhance your horse riding experiences. From high-quality jodhpurs to essential equestrian supplements, our range caters to all your equestrian needs. In this blog, we'll guide you through ways to maximize your riding experience.The Importance of Quality Horse Riding ApparelFor any equestrian, the right fit makes all the difference. Not only does it impact your comfort, but it also affects your performance. At Just Horse Riders, quality apparel such as riding breeches and boots are paramount. Our garments promise durability, flexibility, and safety, ensuring that riders can focus solely on their ride.Why Jodhpurs MatterJodhpurs are a rider's best friend regarding flexibility and grip. Traditional and contemporary designs ensure that they fit snugly, providing comfort and ease of movement. Explore our Jodhpur Collection for options that suit your style.The Helmets That ProtectRiding helmets are an indispensable part of riding gear. They provide the necessary protection against unforeseen mishaps. Our helmets are known for their robust construction and style, offering both safety and aesthetic appeal.Enhancing the Equestrian Experience with Equestrian SupplementsGood nutrition is as critical for your horse as it is for you. Proper supplements ensure that your horse remains healthy and active. Discover our range of horse everyday supplements to support your horse's health seamlessly.The Role of SupplementsSupplements are vital in facilitating optimal performance and improving the horse's immunity. They help prevent deficiencies and ensure muscle health and recovery. Properly selected supplements provide peace of mind when it comes to maintaining your horse's health.Choosing the Right Riding BootsRiding boots are not just another accessory; they are crucial for ensuring safety and comfort. With multiple options available at Just Horse Riders, choosing the right riding boots becomes a hassle-free experience.The Perfect FitSelecting boots that fit well can make your rides enjoyable and safe. Ill-fitted boots can lead to discomfort and accidents. Our extensive collection offers boots with the perfect blend of style and safety.Grooming the Horse for Optimal PerformanceGrooming is an integral part of horse care, dictating both the health and the appearance of the horse. An unkempt horse is more prone to skin issues and lesser performance.Essentials of Horse GroomingGrooming tools such as hoof picks, brushes, and combs are available to keep your horse well-maintained. Regular grooming prevents health issues and builds a bond between the horse and the owner.Horse Treats and RewardsIt's essential to reward your horse during training. Horse treats from our collection serve as excellent rewards, encouraging better performance and obedience in your horse.Investing in Protective GearProtective gear goes a long way in maintaining the rider's safety. At Just Horse Riders, we have diligently curated a wide range of sturdy and stylish gloves and socks to protect your hands and feet during rides.Horse Fly ProtectionTo keep your horse's health in top condition, explore our horse fly protection collection. These items play a pivotal role in preventing irritations caused by flies and maintaining your horse's overall well-being.Riding Arenas: The Ultimate Riding GroundsThe location you choose to ride plays a significant role in the quality of the ride. From serene countryside paths to enclosed arenas, finding the perfect space boosts both rider confidence and experience.Turnout and Stable Rugs for HorsesFor all seasons, keeping your horse protected is crucial. Our range of turnout rugs and stable rugs ensure your horse remains comfortable and shielded from the elements.Summary and TakeawayFrom top-quality apparel to reliable supplements, Just Horse Riders aims to enhance your horse-riding experience. Explore our wide array that fits every enthusiast's needs and keeps both the rider and horse in prime condition. Curious about more? Visit our homepage for further insights and products!```html```

A teenager from Suffolk has credited the Riding for the Disabled Association (RDA) with transforming his life following a childhood brain injury.Joshua Brooks, 16, sustained brain damage at the age of two after contracting a rare case of chickenpox.The illness affected his mobility and speech, leaving him isolated and struggling to socialise.In 2018, Joshuas mother, Judy, discovered the West Suffolk RDA in Barrow, Bury St Edmunds, after searching for an activity that could give Joshua independence, as well as the chance to meet other young people.When Joshua started riding, he instantly became happier and calmer, feeling a huge sense of belonging and being part of a team, said Judy.As a SEND parent, life can be lonelyJoshua began riding at the RDA aged eight, but as he is now too tall to ride ponies, he helps as a volunteer.Every Tuesday, Joshua helps with leading horses in lessons and assists with preparing the horses, tacking up and untacking before and after sessions, as well as mucking out the stables.Judy explains that volunteering at the RDA has empowered Joshua. As a special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) parent, life can be difficult, full of battles and often lonely, she said.The West Suffolk RDA has given me a place where I can see my child achieving, where he is content and empowered and where life makes sense.The RDA and horse riding arent just hobbies; they are a lifeline for so many and funding and volunteering are imperative to keeping the RDA operating.Riding has been a lifeline for JoshuaA new partnershipThe RDA supports more than 25,000 disabled people each year across 450 groups nationwide.Run largely by volunteers, the charity offers both ridden and non-ridden equine programmes.This year, its work will be boosted through a new partnership with equestrian retailer Harry Hall, which named the RDA as its exclusive charity partner for 2025.Michael Bishop, CEO of RDA UK, said: With 24% of the UK population classified as disabled, we strive to make a lasting impact through the therapeutic power of horses.Without the support of our volunteers and donors, we would not be able to continue our powerful work, which serves as a lifeline for many young people and their families.Michael explained that the RDA is the only major charity in the UK specifically focused on the health and wellbeing benefits of equine interaction.Joshuas story is just one example of how connecting with horses can enrich lives. We look forward to seeing Joshua continue his remarkable volunteering journey with us.Vital fundsHarry Hall managing director, Liz Hopper, added: Joshuas journey perfectly illustrates why we support the RDA. Seeing him thrive in his volunteering role is inspiring, and we are committed to helping the charity continue its vital services.So far, Harry Hall has raised over 5,000 for the RDA, with Joshua himself adding to that total by raising 130 through presentations to Beaver and Cub Scouts. These funds will help provide resources for horses and riders, training for volunteers, and the development of new initiatives.The post Life can be lonely: teenager with brain damage is empowered by horses and riding appeared first on Your Horse.

The first leg of the Foal Championships & Filly Loose Jumping competition begins in JAG Equestrian on 14th August.Please see links below for startlists:Foal Championships StartlistLoose Jumping StartlistIf you would like to enter the next leg please CLICK HERE for more info and applicationsThe post Foal Championships & Loose Jumping: Leg 1 appeared first on Horse Sport Ireland.

Category Key Points Importance of Dog Collars Hold ID tags, assist in control during walks, style statement, must be safe and comfortable, proper fit and use are critical. Key Features to Consider Material, Fit & Adjustability, Durability, Safety Features, Style & Personalization Best Overall Durable Collar Filson Nylon Dog Collar: Sturdy, washable, quick-drying, rustproof, fits necks 11-26 inches, priced around $27. Best Overall Functional Collar Ruffwear Crag Reflective Collar: Reflective stitching, robust carabiner, durability with visibility features. Best for Comfort and Style Ultimate Padded Leather Agitation Collar: Latigo leather, felt padded interior, antimicrobial, $54.99 to $69.99. Best Budget Option Frisco Solid Nylon Collar: Simple, affordable, durable, approximately $10. Best Training Collar for Water Dogs SportDog WetlandHunter 425X: Waterproof, submersible to 25 feet, lightweight, Drytek technology. Facts & Figures Durability, Safety, Comfort, Price Range: $10-$70. Recommended Collars Based on Needs Active Dogs - Filson or SportDog; Everyday Use - Ultimate Padded Leather; Visibility - Ruffwear Crag or Blazin LED; Budget - Frisco. Collar Maintenance Filson is machine washable, leather collars require conditioning. The Best Dog Collars: A Comprehensive Guide to Quality, Style, and DurabilityChoosing the perfect dog collar is essential for your pet's safety, comfort, and style. A well-made collar can last for years, withstand play and outdoor adventures, and reflect your dogs personality. This guide will explore the top collars available in 2025, focusing on quality materials, durability, practical features, and overall style to help you make an informed decision.Why the Right Dog Collar MattersA dog collar serves multiple purposes: it holds ID tags, helps with control during walks, and can be a style statement. But beyond looks, collars must be safe and comfortable to avoid injury. For example, veterinarians warn that leash pressure on collars can harm a dogs larynx or trachea, making proper fit and use critical. Many experts recommend harnesses for walking but recognize collars remain vital for ID and everyday wear.Key Features to Consider Material: Durable materials like nylon and leather offer both strength and comfort. Fit & Adjustability: Collars must fit snug but not tight, adjustable to your dog's measurements. Durability: Look for collars that withstand water, dirt, and rough play. Safety Features: Reflective stitching or LED elements improve visibility for night walking. Style & Personalization: Collars come in various colors, patterns, and with options for name embroidery or tags.Best Dog Collars of 2025: Top Picks1. Filson Nylon Dog Collar (Best Overall Durable Collar)Made with sturdy 1-inch nylon webbing, the Filson collar is washable and quick-drying, ideal for water-loving dogs. Features a solid brass D-ring and rustproof plastic hardware ensuring longevity even after wet, muddy adventures. Sizes fit necks 11 to 26 inches, priced around $27. Minor drawback: prominent branding visible on the collar.2. Ruffwear Crag Reflective Collar (Best Overall Functional Collar)Sturdy and easy to adjust, with reflective stitching for safety during nighttime walks. Includes a robust carabiner to attach ID tags securely. Known for combining durability with visibility features making it a leader in functional design.3. Ultimate Padded Leather Agitation Collar (Best for Comfort and Style)Constructed from premium latigo leather with a soft felt padded interior for comfort. Available in multiple widths and lengths, with or without a handle for extra control. Features anti-microbial materials to reduce hair buildup and irritation. Suited for everyday use, agitation training, or search and rescue work. Price ranges from $54.99 to $69.99.4. Frisco Solid Nylon Collar (Best Budget Option)Simple, affordable, and durable nylon collar available for about $10. Good entry-level collar that holds up well with proper care and cleaning.5. SportDog WetlandHunter 425X (Best Training Collar for Water Dogs)Designed for hunting and training, this collar is waterproof and submersible to 25 feet. Lightweight and compact, with camo finishing suitable for field conditions. Reliable with Drytek waterproof technology to endure harsh environments.Facts & Figures to Know Durability: Nylon collars tend to be mildew and water-resistant; leather collars offer breathability but need more care to avoid cracking. Filson's nylon collar resisted mildew even after extensive water exposure. Safety: Reflective collars like Ruffwear's increase visibility exponentially in low light, reducing accidents during evening walks. Comfort: Padded collars significantly lower irritation risks; latigo leather collars used by professionals include breathable pads to reduce discomfort during extended wear. Price Range: The best collars range widely from $10 for basic models to around $70 for premium leather or tech-enhanced collars.Choosing the Right Collar for Your Dog Active Dogs: Select washable, waterproof collars like Filson or SportDog WetlandHunter for durability after swims and mud baths. Everyday Use: A comfortable padded leather collar like the Ultimate Padded Leather collar offers style and softness for daily wear. Visibility Needs: Reflective or LED collars such as Ruffwear Crag or Blazin LED light-up collars enhance nighttime safety. Budget: For cost efficiency without sacrificing quality, Frisco's solid nylon collar performs well.Caring for Your Dog CollarProper maintenance extends the life of your collar. Machine washable options like the Filson allow easy cleaning without damage. Leather collars should be treated with conditioner to maintain suppleness and prevent cracking.ConclusionThis comprehensive look at the best dog collars in 2025 balances durability, comfort, style, and safety to help you pick the best collar for your furry friend. Always ensure the collar fits properly and complements your dog's lifestyle, and remember to combine use with a harness when walking to protect your dogs health.```html```

There may be no greater bliss than a trail rideespecially on the back of a Tennessee Walking Horse. The breeds unique gaits have made them increasingly popular as trail mounts.Photo by Bob LangrishThe breed performs three distinct gaits. The flat walk is a brisk, long-reaching walk that ranges from 4 to 8 mph. A nodding head motion, along with overstride, are unique features of the gait. The running walk is an extra-smooth gait like the flat walk except faster, at 10 to 20 mph, giving the rider a feeling of gliding through the air as if propelled by a powerful machine. The canter is performed in much the same way as other breeds, but with lots of spring and rhythm, giving an easy front end rise and fall referred to as a rocking chair canter.The Tennessee Walking Horse Breeders & Exhibitors Association (TWHBEA) currently has 234,418 registered Walkers, and many of them hit the trails annually through TWHBEAs trail programs. In 2023, riders logged 13,438 total hours in the distance program.Hours in the SaddleVias Sugarfoot, owned and ridden by Glory Redmond of Lowell, Ind., was the TWHBEA Trail Horse of the Year for 2023, logging 387.5 hours.Glory Redmond and Vias Sugarfoot in Missouri on a cross-country trail ride. Photo courtesy Glory RedmondSunday Morning Rain and owner Susan St. Amand have logged more than 3,000 hours on trails, more than any other Tennessee Walking Horse in TWHBEAs program.Sunday Morning Rain and owner Susan St. Amand have logged more than 3,000 hours on trails, more than any other Tennessee Walking Horse in TWHBEAs program. Photo by Janet CyrWe ride on the hundreds of miles of ATV public trails in the Northern Maine woods, and witness plenty of wildlife, says St. Amand.The Tennessee Walking Horse has long been recognized as a superior trail mount because they are smart, strong, surefooted and smooth, says Paige Liggett of TWHBEA. The Tennessee Walking Horse was originally bred to be a utility horse capable of carrying a rider over the rolling hills of Middle Tennessee in comfort and style. This inherent ability translates perfectly to most any terrain or situation.From Trails to Mounted ArcheryLila Corey of Youngsville, N.C., owns three Tennessee Walking Horses that she uses for trail riding and mounted archery. Her 9-year-old mare, Patience; 9-year-old gelding, Lakota; and 18-year-old gelding, Aston, are all skilled on the trail as well as the archery track. They carry both her students and her granddaughter with ease and care.Lila Coreys three Tennessee Walking Horses (Aston pictured) are all used for trail riding and mounted archery. They also carry her students and granddaughter with ease and care. Photo courtesy Lila CoreyI trail ride for fun and relaxation, says Corey. Tennessee Walking Horses are very smooth, and that makes them easier to shoot off of when cantering. The hunt course, being like a trail ride with targets at a canter, is so much fun on a gaited horse.Kristin Munson from Sandia Park, N.M., grew up riding Tennessee Walking Horses.I cant post worth a darn, she laughs. Thats a pretty necessary skill for most long-distance riders, unless they are lucky enough to ride gaited!Now, Munson rides Cruise Until Midnyte, aka Cruze, a 5-year-old gelding, on endurance rides. (The pair are featured on this months cover.)Tennessee Walking Horses are known for being level-headed, considerate of their riders, gentle, and comfortable for long periods of time, she says. Because they were bred for riding on extensive plantations in the south, especially Heritage Walkers [these have no or limited high-stepping breeding lines] are famous for traveling long miles without complaint and being a joy to ride.Since Cruze is young, Munson is competing in the American Endurance Ride Conference (AERC) limited-distance races, ranging from 25 to 35 miles. As he grows up, her goal is to complete the 100-mile Western States Trail Ride (also known as the Tevis Cup). She says that Arabians and Mustangs tend to win endurance rides, but she and Cruze enjoy the time together.I believe the AERC motto that To Finish is to Win, and I wouldnt want to spend 35, 50, or even 100 miles on any other breed!Mounted OrienteeringPushers Phoenix Sun, affectionately called Nacho, is a 12-year-old Walking Horse gelding owned by Laurie Heffington of Winlock, Wash. She purchased Nacho sight unseen from British Columbia because she had been searching for years for a gaited horse.Lauri Heffington and Nacho at a local competitive mounted orienteering (CMO) event. Photo by Ashlynn WinterA friend of hers got her into competitive mounted orienteering (CMO) a few years ago. In mounted orienteering, a team or individual uses a compass to find hidden objectsusually a paper plate with a letter on iton a trail. The event is timed. Heffington has found Nacho to be the perfect partner.From what Nacho has shown, they have wonderful personality and grit, says Heffington. He can go and go. My husband calls him The Bulldozer, because he will plow through anything I point him at, regardless if theres a path. That is great when were searching around in the brush for a plate!Heffington and Nacho placed first in the Washington Chapter of CMO for the short course and second in the nation in 2022 and 2023.Although Tennessee Walking Horses are known for their fast running walk, Heffington says that Nacho has no problem slowing down, and will even keep pace with her sons 12-hand pony on the trail.This article about the Tennessee Walking Horse breed appeared in the August 2024 issue of Horse Illustratedmagazine.Click here to subscribe!The post Breed Spotlight: Tennessee Walking Horse appeared first on Horse Illustrated Magazine.