Key Points Details Role of Horses Companions, workers, athletes, and bringers of daily joy. Nonverbal Communication Enhances mindfulness, trust, empathy, and emotional well-being. Calm and Nature Stress reduction from being outdoors with horses. Joy in Achievements Everyday wins like learning new cues and harmony during rides. Responsibility and Routine Discipline and patience from caring for horses; strong owner devotion. Unconditional Acceptance Non-judgmental presence; beneficial for mental health. Visit Stables/Centers Experience equine community warmth and hospitality. Grooming and Groundwork Strengthens bond and trust with horses. Horse Shows Rewarding experience in a welcoming atmosphere. Learn Horse Care Builds trust and enriches horse-related experiences. Support Equine Therapy Contributes to therapeutic programs' growth and reach. Conclusion Horses enrich our lives and turn ordinary days into extraordinary memories. The Joy of Horses: Celebrating the Everyday Moments That Make Us SmileHorses have played an instrumental role in human history, not only as companions but as workers and athletes too. Today, they continue to brighten our lives in many subtle ways, mainly through the everyday moments we spend with them. This blog explores the daily joys horses bring to our lives and the profound connection we share with them.The Comfort of ConnectionOne of the most beautiful aspects of interacting with horses is the form of nonverbal communication it encourages. Horses respond intuitively to our emotions and body language, which allows us to slow down and focus on the present moment. Through this, we cultivate mindfulness, trust, and empathykey ingredients for emotional well-being.Moments of Calm in NatureBeing around horses often means spending time outdoors, where we can engage with naturea proven stress-reducer. Whether grooming in the barn or walking alongside a horse on a shaded trail, these moments allow us to unwind in a peaceful countryside setting.Joy in Small AchievementsRiding horses isn't just about winning competitions; it's about the everyday wins. These include moments where your horse learns a new cue or when you experience a peaceful moment of harmony during a ride. The growing appreciation for such achievements reflects a rise in rider participation and engagement in equestrian activities.Sense of Responsibility and RoutineCaring for horses involves cultivating discipline, patience, and responsibility. The regular feeding, grooming, and care rituals create a rhythm that grounds our day. According to the 2025 American Horse Publications Equine Industry Survey [1], horse owners are profoundly devoted to maintaining this lifelong bond, often dedicating significant time and resources to health care and management practices.Unconditional AcceptanceWhat sets horses apart is their unconditional presence without judgment. This environment can be healing for people, helping address anxiety, depression, or loneliness. Equine-assisted therapies are increasingly popular worldwide, providing significant mental health benefits.Simple Ways to Celebrate the Joy of HorsesVisit Local Stables or Equestrian CentersExperiencing the calm and joy that horses bring firsthand can be as simple as visiting local stables or equestrian centers. Such outings provide a unique opportunity to witness the equine community's warmth and hospitality.Try Grooming or Groundwork ExercisesEngaging in basic activities like grooming or groundwork exercises can deepen your understanding of and affection for horses. These simple interactions create a bond and trust that maximizes the joys of horse ownership.Attend Horse Shows or CompetitionsMany horse shows offer a welcoming atmosphere, open to all experience levels. Participating in or attending these events can be immensely rewarding. You're guaranteed to experience the shared (and sometimes competitive) joy of equestrian sports.Learn About Horse Care and BehaviorUnderstanding the intricacies of horse care and behavior is essential for anyone looking to deepen their connection with these animals. Knowledge helps appreciate the trust-building efforts behind the scenes and enriches our experience with horses.Support Equine Therapy ProgramsThe emotional power of horses paves the way for them to help people in need. Equine therapy programs worldwide harness this power, offering therapeutic experiences that are both healing and gratifying. Consider supporting such programs to contribute to their growth and reach.ConclusionHorses teach us patience, empathy, perseverance, and joy. Their presence turns ordinary days into extraordinary memories. By embracing these everyday moments, we celebrate the extraordinary bond between humans and horsesa bond that has enriched our lives for millennia and continues to uplift us today. Take the time to enjoy the gifts horses bring, whether through riding or simply being in their noble presence.```html```

Five veterinary experts discuss the latest in diagnosing, treating, and preventing equine gastric ulcers in this roundtable. Sponsored by Boehringer Ingelheim.Register NowThis roundtable webcast begins on Thursday, August 28, 2025 at 8:00 p.m. EDT Days Hours MinutesAbout the Experts: Sarah Reuss, VMD, Dipl. ACVIM Sarah Reuss, VMD, Dipl. ACVIM, is currently an equine technical manager for Boehringer Ingelheim, following roles in private practice and academia. As a board-certified large animal internal medicine specialist, her professional interests include gastric disease, neurology, and infectious diseases of the horse and foal. She also serves as president-elect of the American Association of Equine Practitioners.Heidi Banse, DVM, PhD, Dipl. ACVIM Heidi Banse, DVM, PhD, Dipl. ACVIM, is currently professor and dean at Arkansas State Universitys College of Veterinary Medicine, in Jonesboro. She received her DVM from Washington State University, in Pullman, completed an internship in large animal medicine at the University of Georgia, in Athens, and completed a combined residency and PhD program at Oklahoma State University, in Stillwater. Her clinical research over the last 10 years focused on the pathophysiology of equine glandular gastric disease. Hoyt Cheramie, DVM, MS, Dipl. ACVSHoyt Cheramie, DVM, MS, Dipl. ACVS, currently serves as a senior equine professional service veterinarian with Boehringer Ingelheim Animal Health. Prior to transitioning to the animal health industry in 2007, he practiced general medicine, performance and sport horse medicine, and general and orthopedic surgery. His interest in gastric ulcers began during his internship and has only grown through years of practice and industry support, and he has become a leading expert in equine gastric ulcer syndrome and equine gastroscopy.Phoebe Smith, DVM, Dipl. ACVIM Phoebe Smith, DVM, Dipl. ACVIM, is a Kentucky native, graduating from Auburn Universitys College of Veterinary Medicine, in Alabama, and completing residency training at the University of California, Davis. She is a board-certified internal medicine specialist with referral hospital, private practice, and academic experience. Smith owns and operates Riviera Equine Internal Medicine & Consulting, a specialty practice based on the central coast of California. Ben Sykes, BSc, BVMS, MS, MBA, Dipl. ACVIM, PhD, FHEABen Sykes, BSc, BVMS, MS, MBA, Dipl. ACVIM, PhD, FHEA, is an equine internal medicine specialist based in Coffs Harbour, Australia. He was the lead author of the 2015 equine gastric ulcer syndrome consensus statement and currently works as a private education and research consultant focused on gastrointestinal health in horses.

Devon & Cornwall Police are investigating after a pony sustained serious injuries and had to be put to sleep as a result of an assault on Monday night (11 August).The incident happened on a farm in the Cheriton Bishop area, between Okehampton and Exeter, and a source told Your Horse that the pony suffered machete-type injuries to her shoulder and back, resulting in a punctured lung.Weve received reports that a horse suffered serious and unexplained injuries during the night on 11 August, and sadly had to be put to sleep, said PC Lucy Wyatt of the Rural Affairs team and equine Lead for Devon & Cornwall Police.While investigations are ongoing, were urging horse owners and those with livestock in the area to be extra vigilant.Police adviceIn a statement, officers are recommending that horse owners:Check fields where animals are kept regularly to check that fences havent been breached and that no one else is in the field with them.Keep hedges, fences and gates in good repair. Field gate hinges should have capping hinges so that they cant be removed easily and cattle grids should be removable and locked out of position when theyre not in use. Use locking posts to obstruct large openings to yards.Utilise CCTV if possible.Keep gates securely padlocked.Sign up to Devon & Cornwall PoliceHorseWatchfor the latest updates on equine incidents.If you have any information that may assist with investigations, Devon & Cornwall Police can be contacted via the website or by calling 101, quoting reference 50250208871.Alternatively, information can be passed anonymously online to CrimeStoppers or by calling 0800 555 111.Your Horse will update this story as more information becomes available. The post Police investigating after pony suffered machete-type injuries in Devon appeared first on Your Horse.

Lexington, Ky. US Equestrian is pleased to announce the 2026 USEF Grand Prix Dressage National Championship will take place at World Equestrian Center (WEC) in Ocala, Fla., from May 13-17, 2026. The USEF Grand Prix Dressage National Championship will offer the opportunity for qualified combinations to test themselves in the exciting atmosphere of the Grand Arena at WEC Ocala and compete for the title[...]Read MoreThe post US Equestrian Announces Location of 2026 USEF Grand Prix Dressage National Championship appeared first on World Equestrian Center.

A horse with osteoarthritis might be reluctant to lie down due to joint pain or stiffness, especially in the hind limbs. This behavior can signal discomfort with the effort necessary to lie down or get up. In this Ask TheHorse Live excerpt Howland Mansfield, DVM, CVA, CVMMP, of American Regent Animal Health, describes the connection between reluctance to lie down and equine osteoarthritis.This podcast is an excerpt of ourAsk TheHorse Live Q&A, Understanding Hind-Limb Lamenesses in Horses. Listen to thefull recording here.About the Expert: Howland M. Mansfield, DVM, CVA, CVMMPHowland M. Mansfield, DVM, CVA, CVMMP, of Summerville, South Carolina, received her DVM from Tuskegee University School of Veterinary Medicine, in Alabama, and completed internships in both general equine medicine and surgery and in advanced equine reproduction. She is certified in both veterinary acupuncture and veterinary medical manipulation. She has practiced along the East Coast over the course of 14 years, in addition to time in Germany providing veterinary care for some of the most elite show horses in Europe. In 2012 Mansfield was named by the South Carolina Horsemans Council as the Horse Person of the Year for her efforts in equine rescue and in combating animal cruelty. She joined American Regent in 2023 as a technical services veterinarian where she can support the welfare of and improve health care for horses and small animals throughout the U.S.

An unvaccinated Shetland Pony mare in Wellington County, Ontario, recently tested positive for Eastern equine encephalitis (EEE). The 8-year-old mare developed a fever and became lethargic on Aug. 2. By Aug. 3, she had developed acute neurologic signs and was referred to an equine hospital, where she was reported to have signs of cranial nerve involvement. She was euthanized.This is the second confirmed EEE case in Ontario 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.EEE 101Eastern equine encephalomyelitis is caused by the Eastern equine encephalitis virus, for which wild birds are a natural reservoir. Mosquitoes that feed on EEE-infected birds can transmit the virus to humans, horses, and other birds. Horses do not develop high enough levels of these viruses in their blood to be contagious to other animals or humans. Because of the high mortality rate in horses and humans, EEE is regarded as one of the most serious mosquito-borne diseases in the United States.Tips for preventing mosquito-borne diseases include:Avoid mosquito bites: Use insect repellent when outdoors, especially from dusk to dawn.Look for EPA-labeled products containing active ingredients such as DEET, picaridin (KBR3023), or oil of lemon eucalyptus (p-menthane 3,8-diol).Apply more repellent, according to label instructions, if mosquitoes start to bite.Mosquito-proof homes: Fix or install window and door screens, and cover or eliminate empty containers with standing water where mosquitoes can lay eggs.Protect your horses: Veterinarians recommend commercially available licensedvaccines against EEE for all horses in the U.S. Horses should be vaccinated at least annually (recommendations vary in high-risk areas). Its not too late this year to vaccinate your horses.Use approved insect repellents to protect horses.If possible, put horses in stables, stalls, or barns during the prime mosquito exposure hours of dusk and dawn.Eliminate standing water, drain water troughs, and empty buckets at least weekly.Stock water tanks with fish that consume mosquito larvae (contact your local mosquito control for assistance), or use mosquito dunks (soliddonuts ofBacillus thuringiensis israelensis, which are nontoxic to horses) available at hardware stores.

On Aug. 7, a 10-year-old Friesian gelding in Weld County, Colorado, tested positive for West Nile virus (WNV). The horse developed clinical signs on Aug. 4, including ataxia and muscle fasciculations. He is currently still alive, and his vaccination status is unknown.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.

Wilmington, Ohio Special classes have been added and schedule changes implemented for the 2025 Fall Classic Series at World Equestrian Center Wilmington (WEC), running from September 24 through October 26. Exhibitors can look forward to exciting themes and elite competition for both hunters and jumpers. The Young Horse Championships will take center stage during Fall Classic III. Five-, six-, and seven-year-old jumpers will[...]Read MoreThe post Special Classes & Schedule Updates for the 2025 Fall Classic Series at WEC Wilmington appeared first on World Equestrian Center.

Two members of the Park Lane Stables branch of the Riding for the Disabled Association (RDA) are teaming up with leading equestrian influencer Esme Higgs widely known to her global audience as This Esme to take part in a Marvel Superhero Triathlon.The sporting event, which takes place tomorrow (Saturday 16 August) at Dorney Lake near Windsor, is part of a superhero series that allows people with disabilities to participate without worrying about cut-off times or equipment restrictions.Backed by Marvel, the event is now in its ninth year.Entrants will be swimming, cycling, and running in a celebration of sporting achievement and teamwork.Fundraising targetsSophie and Woody are representing Park Lane Stables and raising vital funds for the RDA.With a target of 5,000, the pair have already raised over 1,800. Sophie began at Park Lane Stables as a participant, later became a volunteer, and is now a valued member of staff.The London stables was saved four years ago after achieving the 1m crowd-funding target it needed in order to purchase its premises.Im feeling a bit nervous, but very excited, said Sophie.Woody has been practising on his bike in preparation for the event and will compete alongside Sophie and Esme at the renowned venue, which was host to the worlds best rowers and canoeists during the 2012 Olympic games.One of my heroesSophie described Esme as one of my heroes and my icon.She added that she is honoured to be on the equestrian influencers team.With over one million subscribers on her YouTube channel, This Esme, the influencer regularly shares content focused on riding and horse welfare.Sophie also thanked supporters for the support that she and Woody have received so far.Thank you so much, everyone I just cant do it without you, she said.Esme HiggsThe triathlonThere are three superhero triathlon distances available, with the longest, the full superhero triathlon, consisting of a 750m swim, 20km bike ride, and 5km push (or run).Competitors can take on all three stages themselves or compete in a team relay. A teammate can also be recruited to tow, push and pull them around the course.The series welcomes anyone with a disability of any kind whether physical, sensory, intellectual, invisible, or behavioural as well as those living with a long-term illness or injury.Team entries require at least one member to have a disability, with no restrictions on the abilities of additional members.Everyone is encouraged to wear a superhero outfit and spectators are welcome.To support Sophie and Woody, visit their fundraising page.The post RDA members to team up with This Esme for superhero triathlon appeared first on Your Horse.

Key Points Details Importance of Proper Gear Ensures safety and comfort for young riders. Safety Certifications CE Ratings for helmets and secure chin straps. Helmet Necessity Full-face designs for comprehensive head protection, available in our helmet collection. Body Armor Reinforcements in critical areas: shoulders, chest, back, and legs. Gloves and Boots Durable gloves for abrasion resistance, gloves and boots with ankle support for protection. Comfort and Mobility Lightweight and flexible materials, breathable textiles for comfort. Clothing Materials Durable like leather or blends, high-visibility for safety. Rider Education Teach safety fundamentals and proper gear use. Building Confidence Start with slow, short rides to build confidence. Recommended Retailers Eagle Leather Hyper Gogo Riiroo FRP Moto Safety Statistics Helmets reduce head injury risk by 69%. Closing Thoughts Invest in reputable gear for safe and confident riding. Equestrian Gear for Kids: Ensuring Safety and ComfortAs children embark on their equestrian journeys, finding the perfect riding gear becomes crucial in ensuring both their safety and comfort. At Just Horse Riders, we understand the importance of providing youngsters with the right equipment to enjoy their horse-riding adventures to the fullest.Prioritize Safety with Certified GearSafety certifications are the cornerstone of any equestrian gear collection. Look for helmets that meet the high safety standards of CE Ratings and have secure chin straps for maximum coverage. Investing in certified gear minimizes the risks associated with riding, allowing kids to ride confidently.Helmets: The Non-Negotiable Safety ElementHelmets should be full-face designs, ensuring complete head protection for young riders. These should fit snugly but remain comfortable to prevent distractions during riding. Explore our comprehensive helmet collection for options that combine safety and style.Body Armor for Enhanced ProtectionRiding jackets and pants equipped with reinforced armor in key areasshoulders, chest, back, and legsprovide an additional layer of security. Adding protective pads like knee and elbow guards can further shield against falls and impacts.Gloves and Boots: Essential Protective AccessoriesGloves crafted with durable materials offer abrasion resistance and cushioning, ideal for protecting small hands during a fall. Additionally, motocross boots with ankle support and impact resistance are imperative for safeguarding delicate feet.Comfort and Mobility: Key ConsiderationsEquestrian gear should never compromise on comfort and mobility. Lightweight, flexible armors made from modern materials grant young riders the freedom they need while riding. Breathable textiles also aid in maintaining comfort during extended rides or warm weather conditions.Clothing Choices Beyond ArmorDurable materials like leather or textile blends are ideal choices for motorcycle jackets and pants. They offer excellent abrasion resistance, while high-visibility colors or reflective elements increase rider visibility.Rider Education and PreparednessWhile safety gear plays a significant role, educating young riders on safety fundamentals is equally important. Teach them the correct ways to wear gear and emphasize basic riding safety rules like maintaining a proper posture and focusing on the path ahead.Building Confidence GraduallyConsider starting with slow, short rides to gradually build up the rider's confidence before moving to more complex maneuvers. This ensures that your child is comfortable and poised to handle their equestrian experiences.Recommended Retailers and BrandsThere are several reputable retailers offering specialized kids riding gear: Eagle Leather: Known for durable, high-quality motorcycle gear designed exclusively for the safety and comfort of young riders. Hyper Gogo: Offers essential safety gear ranging from helmets to gloves, ensuring robust protection for children. Riiroo: Provides a variety of certified helmets and body armor, catering to safety-conscious parents. FRP Moto: Focuses on dirt bike safety gear that combines protection with flexibility and expert advice on the best selections.Supporting Data and StatisticsDid you know that helmets can reduce the risk of head injury by approximately 69% among riders? This statistic emphasizes the importance of helmet use. Similarly, properly fitted gloves and boots can safeguard against frequent injuries associated with horse riding.Closing Thoughts: Ride Safely, Ride ConfidentlyEquipping children with certified protective gear and instilling proper safety education ensures that they can enjoy the freedom of riding responsibly. Invest in reputable brands from trusted retailers to find gear that matches quality with protection. Ready to explore our vast range of equestrian gear? Visit Just Horse Riders for comprehensive solutions tailored to the safety and style of young equestrians.Engage with our carefully curated collections such as the Jodhpur Collection or find socks that complement the riding experience. Providing the best gear fosters a lifelong responsible riding attitude, ensuring every ride is one to remember.Let's prioritize safety and comfort, shaping the next generation of equestrian enthusiasts with gear that empowers them to ride with joy and assurance. Explore our website for more insightful choices and let us support your childs equestrian journey with expertise and trust.```html```