Defending champion Ros Canter and current world number one Harry Meade are among the entries for next months Defender BurghleyHorse Trials (4-7 September).Ros, who recently announced that she is expecting her second child, is entered with her 2024Burghleychampion and Paris Olympics team gold-winning ride Lordships Graffalo.The Lincolnshire pair produced the best-ever finishing score (26.6) inBurghleys history last autumn and took their second Mars Badminton title in May, making them clear favourites for back-to-backBurghleyvictories.Harry is hunting the first CCI5* victory of his career and has Annaghmore Valoner, Cavalier Crystal and Et Hop Du Matz entered this time.Five-star winners in the huntThere are seven CCI5*-winning riders entered.Piggy Marchwill be back atBurghleyfor the first time since her 2022 success, this time with new ride MCS Maverick.Fellow Brit and back-to-back Olympic team gold medallist Laura Collettwill partner Bling.New Zealand also boast two top-level winners in Tim Price andCaroline Powell, the 2011 Burghley winner, who bringsHigh Time V.This will be a 20th Burghley start for Tim, who took the title in 2018, and he will ride Vitali.IrelandsAustin OConnor is entered aboard his 2023 Maryland CCI5* hero Colorado Blue, while SwitzerlandsFelix Voggwill pilot Cartania.The latter triumphed at the Luhmuhlen CCI5* in Germany three years ago, making himthe first Swiss rider to win at the level since Hans Schwarzenbachs Badminton successin 1951.First-timersFourteen riders will be making theirBurghleydebuts.Among them are the newly crowned British Open ChampionsKatie Mageeand Treworra.Katie fulfilled a lifetime ambition when piloting this horse into 11th place at Badminton earlier this year, a feat that earned her the accolade of highest placed first timer.GermanysChristoph Wahler, who was part of Germans gold medal-winning team at the 2022 World Championships, will be competing here for the first time.He will ride DAccord FRH, on whom he was seventh at Badminton this year, and is the first German to compete atBurghleysince Michael Jung in 2018.Irelands Lucy Lattais entered aboard her Badminton 2024 runner-up RCA Patron Saint.Ones to watchOther riders to watch include young British ridersEmily King(riding Valmy Biats) andBubby Upton,who will pilot Magic Roundabout IV.This years entry list is the second-highest rated field in the past 10 years, according to Irish statistics company EquiRatings.Im delighted that once again we have great entries for DefenderBurghley, said event director Martyn Johnson.While there are some clear favourites, I think it is an open field featuring some superb cross-country horses, and Im looking forward to seeing them in the spectacular setting ofBurghleyPark in three weeks time.DefenderBurghleyentries close today, Friday, 15 August, and the draw for the running order will take place early next week.View the full entry list.Find out more about Burghley and book tickets.Main image of the 2024Burghleytop three: Tim Price (left), Ros Canter and Harry Meade. Credit: DBHT/Peter NixonRelated contentWin tickets to Defender Burghley, plus a Champion helmet and body protectorHarry Meade becomes FEI world number one for the first timeHow to watch Defender BurghleyThe post Strong entry field for Defender Burghley led by the reigning champion and current world number one appeared first on Your Horse.

It is possible to age a horse by looking at their teeth you just need to know how to do it and what youre looking for.Bear in mind, though, that a horses teeth only provide an estimation of their age and it is not a fool proof process. General wear on teeth is affected by so many different factors and regular dental check ups are a vital part of every horses routine care.Ageing a horse is relatively simple, but there are some exceptions, especially in horses that crib bite or windsuck, explains James Sheppard, an equine dental technician with 17 years experience who has treated equines in 18 different countries, including top-level performance horses.The natural shedding of the deciduous (baby) teeth of a young horse is generally very accurate, so up to the age of five you can be fairly precise.A very young horses age is worked out according to what teeth they still have in their mouth and which they have lost. After that, how to age a horse by their teeth is more of an estimation because it is affected by wear on the teeth.Number of teethYou will often hear a vet or equine dental technician refer to your horses teeth by numbers.Each tooth has its own number, according to where it is located in the mouth. This makes it easier to record any problem teeth and general updates after a horse has had their routine teeth check.The diagram below shows which number teeth are where:Green = incisors (these are the horse teeth you can easily see at the front of the mouth)Yellow = canine teeth (as mentioned above, not all horses have these)Pink = wolf teeth (these teeth can sometimes interfere with the bit and cause horses pain, and so are removed)Blue = premolarsOrange = molars (teeth at the back of the horses mouth)Teeth numbered with a 1 at the start (eg 101) are in the top of the horses mouth, on the right side.The teeth starting with a 2 are also at the top of the mouth, but on the left side.In the lower jaw, teeth 301-311 are on the left side, while horse teeth 401-411 are on the lower right side.The Galvaynes grooveWhen considering how to age a horse, the Galvaynes groove is a key to working out the answer.The Galvaynes groove starts to appear on a horses teeth at the age of 10 and can be seen until the horse is between 25 and 30 years old. This is how to age a horse from their 10th year up to around the time they turn 30, although as already mentioned it provides an estimation only.The Galvaynes groove is a brown mark that appears at the gum line at the centre of the upper corner incisor, explains James Sheppard.This mark grows down and reaches halfway down the tooth by the time the horse or pony is 15 years old, before leaving the gum line altogether at 20 years old.The Galvaynes groove grows out completely during the five to 10 years afterwards, and this is how to age a horse who is between 25 and 30 years old.Teeth of a five to 10-year-old horseLike humans, horses get two sets of teeth in their lifetime. Most horses have 24 deciduous (baby) teeth and they appear early usually within the first two weeks after being born.Mature stallions have between 40 and 44 teeth, while mature mares have around 36 to 40 teeth.The difference is due to the fact that the canine teeth,which should appear when the horse is around four to five years of age, are often not seen in mares.People often get the canine teeth confused with wolf teeth in horses, but theyre not the same thing. The canines are bigger and sit in front of the wolf teeth (which not all horses get), while the wolf teeth erupt through the gums earlier than the canines.James explains that between the ages of five and 10, there are certain characteristics to note about a horse or ponys teeth:The upper corner incisors begin coming into wear, and a small beak appears on that same incisor at age seven.Large cusps (raised areas) on the occlusal (chewing) surfaces of the incisors decrease in size as the horse gets older.The older the horse, the more acute the angle where the incisors meet, and the more triangular the incisors appear to be, says James.How to age a young horseUnlike human teeth, which fully erupt prior to maturity, a horses teeth will erupt throughout their life. This is why teeth play such an influential role in answering the question of how to age a horse, because they are constantly changing.Horses will lose 24 caps (baby teeth) and have a complete set of permanent teeth before they are six years old, so there is a lot of activity at a time when a horse is having a bit introduced, explains Dr Melissa Emson, an equine vet and dentist who runs The Equine Dental Vet.Soft, fast erupting permanent teeth can cause trauma to the soft tissue of the mouth, as can the sharp edges of loose caps, and they are the most common find when examining the mouths of young, recently-backed horses and ponies.Teeth in an older horseAgeing a horse who is in their later years mostly comes down to wear on the teeth, but there are some common behavioural signs that teeth belong to older horses to watch for as well.The most common issues I hear from the owners of geriatric horses are weight loss, diarrhoea, struggling to eat hay, a reduced appetite, or becoming a fussy feeder, says Melissa.If your horse prefers a softer meadow hay rather than a course hay, it could be that theyre struggling to chew it. The grinding surface of geriatric teeth are smoother than the abrasive surface of a younger horses tooth, hence older horses find it harder to grind more coarse food.Older and more worn teeth are also narrower and therefore hay and chaff often become lodged between teeth. This can result in painful gum disease that prevents the chewing of food into smaller particles.Signs of this include weight loss, diarrhoea, the dunking of hay in water buckets, food packing in the cheek, a foul smell from the mouth, slow eating and quidding balls where food isnt able to be swallowed because it isnt chewed sufficiently well, adds Melissa.Some younger horses can also have gaps known as diastemas due to displaced cheek teeth, or where the teeth have failed to migrate together.Find an equine dental technicianThe British Association Of Equine Dental Technicians (BAEDT) was founded in 2001. It is an organisation for qualified professional equine dental technicians. Make sure it is a vet or an equine dental technician registered with BAEDT treating your horse. A full list of fully qualified BAEDT Equine Dental Technicians can be found here.Main image Shutterstock. Diagram Your Horse Library/Kelsey Media LtdRelated contentWhen to have a horses wolf teeth removedHow do horses sleep?How to tell if a horse is happyHow to take care of a horseWhat is choke in horses?The post This is how to age a horse by looking at their teeth appeared first on Your Horse.

Key Points Details Layering Moisture-wicking base layers (e.g., merino wool or synthetics) keep skin dry; thermal tights or breeches offer comfort and insulation. Outer Layers Waterproof, windproof jackets are crucial; items like the Gorewear Windstopper Thermo Beanie provide additional warmth. Hands and Feet Insulated gloves and water-resistant boots are essential; woolen socks and thermal toe caps aid in warmth and safety. Headgear Snug hats or balaclavas preserve warmth; headbands and neck warmers offer extra protection. Practical Riding Tips Adjust layers for comfort, select footwear with traction, and drink warm beverages for hydration. Conclusion Winter riding offers unique challenges and rewards; gear and vigilance are crucial for a safe and enjoyable experience. Conquering the Cold: Mastering Winter Horse Riding with Just Horse Riders As the chilly winds of winter set in, horse riders everywhere face the magnificent challenge of maintaining their riding sessions without succumbing to the freezing temperatures. At Just Horse Riders, we prioritize comfort, safety, and style for every equestrian, especially when it comes to tackling the elements of cold weather. In this comprehensive guide, we delve into the essential winter horse riding gear, practical tips, and expert insights to enhance your equestrian experience. Stay Warm with Layering: The Winter Riding Essential Layering is a time-tested method for insulation and temperature regulation, crucial for the colder months. Moisture-wicking base layers, composed of materials like merino wool or synthetics, are the first step. These layers keep your skin dry and provide essential warmth by effectively managing moisture. Over your base layer, consider thermal tights or breeches designed for moderate to extreme cold. Our curated Jodhpur Collection offers a range of options that balance comfort and insulation, ready to face winter's chill. Outer Layers That Block the Elements Your outermost attire plays a pivotal role in combatting wind and precipitation. A waterproof, windproof jacket is indispensable; it needs to be breathable yet robust enough to shield you from the elements. Products like the Gorewear Windstopper Thermo Beanie, praised for its excellent head warmth, are ideal companions on a blustery ride. Keeping Hands and Feet Toasty Fingers and toes are especially prone to cold, making quality gloves and footwear essential. Our specialist Horse Riding Gloves Collection features insulated, water-resistant options that ensure dexterity and warmth. Pair these with our Horse Riding Boot Collection and add woolen socks for an unbeatable shield against the cold. Footwear Tips for Winter Riding Winter necessitates special attention to your feet. Employ thermal toe caps or full shoe covers to maintain circulation and prevent frostbite, pivotal for rides in sub-freezing temperatures. This strategy not only enhances comfort but also ensures safety during your rides. Headgear: Keeping Your Mind Focused Without proper head protection, body heat loss accelerates. A snug, thermal hat or balaclava sits neatly beneath the helmet, conserving precious warmth. Our collection also offers accessories like headbands and neck warmers, which are practical additions for extra protection. Practical Riding Tips for the Winter Enthusiast Embrace the cold with confidence by applying these expert riding strategies: Layer Smart: Adjust layers as you warm up or conditions change, maintaining comfort and efficiency. Opt for Grip: Choose footwear with enhanced traction to navigate slick surfaces safely. Stay Hydrated: Warm beverages in insulated bottles keep you hydrated while enhancing endurance and comfort. Expert reviews emphasize these strategies not only enhance the experience but also mitigate risks associated with cold weather riding, such as hypothermia or frostbite. For more advice, refer to the REI Expert Advice on winter biking. Conclusion: Crafting Your Winter Riding Experience Winter riding enriches your equestrian journey, offering unique fitness challenges and mental rewards when approached with the right mindset and equipment. At Just Horse Riders, we provide everything from everyday Horse Vitamins & Supplements to stable and Turnout Rugs for your horse's comfort. So, gear up with our premier products, stay vigilant, and enjoy the stunning landscapes that winter unveils.```html```

A horse has unique nutritional needs that start even before he is born. Owners who understand the reasons behind those nutritional requirements, and how they will change over time, will be better able to select appropriate feeds that help protect a horses health, performance potential and longevity. Photo by Belozorova Elena/Adobe StockIts essential to look closely at the specifics involved during every life stage to determine how proper nutrition helps support a horses development.A Foals Immediate NeedsFeeding for the developing horse needs to start as soon as the mare becomes pregnant, but the nutritional demands accelerate significantly in the final trimester. At that point, the foal is growing rapidly, and the mares energy requirements rise sharply.That final third of gestation is a critical point to make sure youre providing adequate protein, vitamins, minerals and the calorie content to maintain that broodmare in at least a body condition score of five. For a lot of broodmares, you want to see a body condition score of six as they go into foaling, said Dr. Randel Raub, Sentinel director of research and nutrition.After foaling, the work begins to build a foundation for a healthy, well-developed adult horse. As a foal goes from relying entirely on the mares milk to consuming solid feed, consider the type of feed based on the type of hay or forage they also are eating. Typically, feeds for growing foals are higher in protein.You want to target a diet thats relatively lower in starches and sugars, Dr. Raub said. If youre growing an equine athlete for a long, healthy, lameness-free, productive career, try to avoid any rapid changes in growth rate where you put the foal in a stress condition, usually around weaning.Up through 8 weeks of age, foals will begin to nibble on hay and grain; at this point, you should gradually introduce the foal to high-quality feed to support digestive development. Creep feeding: A specially formulated creep feed helps foals get essential nutrients without competition from the mare.Protein: High-quality sources such as soybean meal or alfalfa support muscle and tissue growth.Calcium and phosphorus: Proper ratios are essential for developing strong bones.Digestive health: Prebiotics and probiotics can aid gut health and development.Feeding Goals Grow with the HorseAs a horse matures into adulthood, access to water and forage remains essential, but feed ingredients and specific nutritional needs will change. Start assessing his needs by considering the horses activity level. A horse that exercises a lot will need more protein, fat and fiber than other horses that have moderate levels of activity. Equine nutritionists such as Dr. Raub and Jeanne Van Der Veen, Sentinel equine and specialty nutritionist, recommend trying a higher-fat horse feed with an active horse. Higher-fat feed sources allow the horse to get extra calories needed for more intensive exercise without increasing grain intake.A balanced diet isnt just about feeding more or less, Van Der Veen said. Its about ensuring the right nutrients are delivered at the right levels to support optimal growth, performance or recovery.When planning a horses diet, no matter what his activity level, it is important to consider body condition score (BCS). Getting the right amounts and ratios of nutrients helps support a horses overall health and body condition.Some things to consider if a horse is being fed below the suggested rate or struggling to maintain a healthy body condition:Start by getting the horse up to his suggested feeding rateConsider a high-fat supplement or higher-fat feed.Provide a protein, vitamin and mineral supplementAdditional protein can be especially helpful if a horse isnt getting enough from forage to maintain a healthy body conditionThe path to optimal health is a journey, not a quick fix, Van Der Veen said. Regular assessments and small adjustments can make a big difference over time.Balancing the Needs of Breeding HorsesPrior to breeding, a balanced feed with moderate protein and fat levels, along with quality forage, helps support increased nutritional demands. For a mare, adequate vitamins and minerals are essential for reproduction.The mares nutritional requirements skyrocket during the final trimester because of the rapid growth rate of the foal. In addition to energy and protein, pregnant mares need calcium, phosphorus and other minerals to allow for proper bone and tissue development in the foal.When that foal hits the ground, the energy demands of the lactating mare are as high as the absolute hardest-working horse you can imagine, Dr. Raub said. Its just phenomenal. They mostly double their nutrient requirements during lactation compared to their maintenance requirements.Once again, look to the body condition score for helpful guidance on how to approach feeding a mare.We want to see a score of five or six in the gestating mare, Dr. Raub said. You dont want them in an obese situation because that can hurt rebreeding efficiency, and you dont want an obese mare going through the foaling process. You compromise that mares ability to deliver the tremendous nutrient content that lactation requires.Theyre already in a negative nutrient balance if you have them at a condition score of four or less, and you put them in a compromised position during lactationand especially if youre looking at rebreeding opportunities, Dr. Raub said.For example, if a gestating mare has a body condition score of four or lower, then that horse will have a negative nutrient balance. This can put the horse in a compromised position during lactation, Dr. Raub said, especially concerning rebreeding opportunities.Addressing a Horses Needs in His Later YearsThough there is no set definition, horses aged 15 or older are typically considered in their senior years. While forage is still the foundation of their diet, senior horses may require adjustments for dental and digestive needs.Some things to look for in an older horse:Reduced digestive efficiencyDental problemsTrouble chewingFeed falling out while chewingWeight lossJoint stiffnessWeakened immune systemChanges in body conditionIf these changes are apparent, equine nutritionists recommend a highly digestible, easily chewed feed, such as extruded, which can help alleviate them. Extruded feed is pressure cooked and combines moisture, heat and pressure to produce a light and airy nugget. This consistency makes it easier for senior horses to chew and is more easily digestible than typical pelleted feed, allowing for better nutrient absorption. Additionally, they can be soaked for a much shorter time than pelleted feeds, which enables a horse to break them down readily.We use extruded feed as a preventative measure, particularly for older horses that have poor dentition or a history of choke, said Dr. Abby Geick, equine veterinarian at the New England Equine Medical & Surgical Center. Extruded feed breaks down nicely in a mash, and it also contains adequate vitamins and nutrients, which really is key for older horses.Helping Horses Through a Lifetime of WellnessFinding the right nutritional balance is essential whether feeding during the intense, high-energy demands of a mares final trimester through lactation, preparing a horse for performance or helping a senior horse thrive in his later years. Thoughtful nutrition planning and knowing how to best serve a horse at every age will provide benefits, year after year. This article is a web exclusive for Horse Illustratedmagazine.Click here to subscribe!The post Make Feed Meet a Horses Needs at Every Life Stage appeared first on Horse Illustrated Magazine.

Key Points Details What Are Equine Ulcers? Lesions in the stomach lining caused by excessive acid exposure. Causes Stress and Training: High prevalence during early training months. Diet: Low-forage diets increase risk. Confinement: Increased prevalence in confined horses. Breed and Age: Some breeds and younger horses are more susceptible. Symptoms Colic, poor appetite, rough coat, behavior changes, diarrhea. Diagnosis Gastroscopy for stomach lining examination and lesion scoring. Treatment Omeprazole to reduce acid production; high prevalence remains in performance horses. Prevention Diet: Continuous forage, prolonged feeding. Stress Reduction: Limit changes, provide turnout. Stabling: Open, ventilated stables. Regular Veterinary Check-ups: Early identification through clinical signs. Facts and Figures Training raises prevalence rates significantly. Management impacts prevalence between confined and free-roaming horses. Performance horses have higher risks than companion horses. Conclusion Advances in treatments and management practices can mitigate the impact of gastric ulcers. Understanding Equine Ulcers: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment Options Equine ulcers, or Equine Gastric Ulcer Syndrome (EGUS), are a significant health concern affecting a large number of horses, particularly those in active training or competition. Understanding this condition is crucial for horse owners to maintain their horses' health and efficiency. What Are Equine Ulcers? Equine ulcers are lesions in the stomach lining, primarily affecting the squamous or glandular mucosa. They arise when the protective lining is damaged, often due to excessive acid exposure[1]. Causes of Equine Ulcers Multiple factors contribute to the development of ulcers in horses. Stress and Training Horses in intense training or competition show the highest ulcer rates. For instance, Thoroughbreds have an ulcer prevalence that skyrockets from 37% to 80-100% during early training months. Explore our Jodhpur Collection for comfort during training[1]. Diet and Feeding Practices Feeding low-forage diets or with interruptions leads to increased acid exposure. Studies highlight that feeding hay via nets reduces risk by promoting natural grazing[5]. Discover supplements to enhance diet. Confinement and Management Confinement in smaller spaces increases ulcer prevalence compared to a more free-roaming lifestyle, indicating stress and limited movement as key factors[3]. Breed and Age Breed differences are notable, with some breeds like Hanoverians showing a 95% ulcer rate, while others like Welsh Ponies have only 36%[2]. Foals also display higher rates, making routine checks vital. Symptoms to Watch For Ulcers can go unnoticed without a direct examination. Still, signs like colic, poor appetite, rough coat, behavior changes, and diarrhea can suggest their presence[1][2]. Regular veterinary checks are essential to catch these early. Diagnosing Equine Ulcers Definitive diagnosis uses gastroscopy, allowing direct visualization of the stomach lining. Ulcers are scored from 0 (no ulcers) to 4 (severe lesions) based on severity[2]. Treatment and Prevention The primary treatment is omeprazole, reducing acid production for healing. Despite its use, high prevalence rates persist, particularly in performance horses. Dietary Management Continuous forage access buffers stomach acid and prevents fasting. Prolong feeding time with hay nets[5]. Explore stable rugs for better comfort. Stress Reduction Limiting routine changes, providing turnout, and minimizing confinement help reduce ulcer incidence[3]. Stabling Practices Open, well-ventilated, and socially interactive stables reduce stress-related ulcers[5]. Turnout rugs to promote outdoor activity. Regular Veterinary Check-ups Early ulcer identification via clinical signs and gastroscopy allows for quick treatment, crucial for maintaining horse health. Facts and Figures to Consider Prevalence rates sharply rise upon initiation of training: 44% to 87% in Standardbreds[1]. Comparative prevalence between confined and free-roaming equids demonstrates management's impact[3][5]. Companion horses face lower ulcer risks than performance horses[5]. Final Thoughts Understanding equine ulcers is vital for both horse health and performance. With advances in treatments like omeprazole and improved management practices, the impact of gastric ulcers can be effectively mitigated. For more resources and equestrian gear, visit Just Horse Riders to explore premium collections.```html```

The Georgia Department of Agriculture has confirmed that one horse in Telfair County has tested positive for Eastern equine encephalitis (EEE). This is Georgias second confirmed case of EEE 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 July 7, a 24-year-old Arabian mare in Leelanau County, Michigan, tested positive for strangles. The mare initially developed nasal discharge on June 20. The case was reported to the Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development in August.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.

Wilmington, OHIO August 15, 2025 Entries and stall reservations are open for World Equestrian Center Wilmingtons (WEC) 2025 Midwest Indoors Series featuring three weeks of US Equestrian (USEF) rated hunter/jumper competition beginning November 5 through November 23. Midwest Indoors II will play host to the prestigious WEC Medal Finals where the winning rider of each section will receive a new Gotrax Scooter[...]Read MoreThe post Join Us for the 2025 Midwest Indoors Series at World Equestrian Center Wilmington appeared first on World Equestrian Center.

For the 2025 breeding season so far, HSI has received 3227 applications and issued 937 completed applications.3208 pedigree applications have had their foal kit sent to the applicant, with the remainder issued imminently.It is important to note that, to date, 1292 foal kits have not been yet returned from breeders to HSI for pedigree applications.Of the 1916 applications who have returned their foal kits to HSI, 937 have been completed and the passport issued and 118 are currently undergoing quality control checks, while the remaining applications DNA samples are currently with the laboratory for analysis.Of the 1055 passport applications, where the DNA samples have been returned to HSI from the laboratory, 937 are complete.The post Passport figures for foals born in 2025 (Horse Source applications) 15th August, 2025 appeared first on Horse Sport Ireland.

Retraining of Racehorses (RoR) has launched new welfare guidelines including updated recommendations on horse to rider weight ratios.The charity recommends that the combined weight of a rider and tack carried by an ex-racehorse should not exceed 17% of the horses bodyweight, based on the horse having a healthy body condition score of 3 out of 5.A horse to rider weight ratio of 20% is the absolute maximum limit.Practically, this means for a typical 500kg Thoroughbred, the rider and gear combined should weigh no more than 85kg to maintain optimal welfare, with 100kg as the absolute upper boundary, said a spokesperson for the RoR.The charity warned that exceeding these guidelines could lead to muscle fatigue, poor posture, lameness and behavioural problems, including a reluctance from the horse to be tacked up or mounted.These issues not only compromise a horses comfort and wellbeing, but can also affect safety and performance, they said.Culture of compassionThe 17% guideline has been in place since 2016. However, it has not previously been actively enforced and so the RoR is taking a more flexible and educational stance this year.The charity said that it acknowledged the sensitivity of the subject around rider weight, but emphasised that this is a supportive, non-judgemental approach, with the aim of raising awareness and offering practical advice to help former racehorses stay healthy and happy in their future ridden careers.RoR advises that riders weigh themselves whilst wearing full riding kit and that they regularly monitor their horses condition, making it a standard part of care alongside saddle fitting, routine vaccinations and regular teeth checks.Welfare remains paramountEquine insurance company Agria has committed to a three-year partnership to help RoR deliver welfare-first practices across its programmes.The welfare of the horse underpins everything we do at RoR. With more ex-racehorses than ever taking part in our competitions and events, its essential that their welfare remains paramount, said managing director David Catlow.These new rules and resources are designed to support owners in delivering the highest standards of care, while reinforcing a culture of compassion, responsibility and continuous learning.Agria CEO Vicki Wentworth added: Supporting RoR in these objectives could not feel more natural to Agria finding ways to support horse welfare, and helping horses and riders to enjoy their happiest lives together, is very much in our DNA.We recommend the new initiatives being launches by RoR and know they will bring widespread benefits.Welfare stewarding teamFollowing successful trials, a new welfare stewarding team will have a consistent presence at major RoR competitions, including next weeks The Jockey Club RoR National Championship at Aintree Racecourse (1924 August 2025).Stewards will be easily recognisable in co-branded RoR and Agria tabards and will offer advice, signpost support, and recognise competitors who demonstrate exemplary care and horsemanship.RoR is also rolling out a programme of educational content covering key welfare topics such as rider/horse weight ratios, care in extreme temperatures, nutrition, and foot care, all tailored to the needs of former racehorses and their owners.The updated welfare rules are available to download now. Printed copies will also be provided at major events.Main image of ex-racehorse Mr Buckle Your Horse Library/Aimi ClarkRelated contentHow much weight can a horse carry?This is how to tell if a horse is lameRoR updates its eligibility criteriaTop tips for hacking an ex-racehorseThe post Ex-racehorses shouldnt carry more than 17% of their bodyweight, says RoR appeared first on Your Horse.