The Blaze equine wellness system features a durable and washable neoprene wrap with easily adjustable straps, while the removable, rechargeable, and lightweight sensor monitors the horses health and motion using advanced algorithms.Garmin today announced the Blaze equine wellness system, a tail wrap and sensor specifically designed to help riders, horse owners, and trainers monitor their horses health and fitness so they can make more informed decisions about their well-being and training.Garmin is a world leader in the health and fitness industry, and we are excited to bring our advanced sensor data and technology to the equine market with the introduction of Blaze. Whether youre eventing, racing, jumping, or anything in between, this new system will help you monitor your horses health to keep them performing at their best.Susan Lyman, Garmin Vice President of Consumer Sales and MarketingDesigned for horsesThe Blaze equine wellness system features a durable and washable neoprene wrap with easily adjustable straps, while the removable, rechargeable, and lightweight sensor monitors the horses health and motion using advanced algorithms. The wrap easily attaches and holds the sensor to the underside of the horses tailno special skin preparation needed.See what they cant tell youRiders can better track their horses health and fitness when using both the Blaze equine wellness system and the Blaze app1.Real-time insights: View heart rate, strides, gait, distance, and more. In addition to seeing these insights in the Blaze app on a smartphone, they can be viewed using the Blaze Connect IQ app on a compatible Garmin smartwatch.Skin temperature: View average skin temperature changes, which can be related to activity, environment, or potential illness.Post-activity data: Review post-activity details, including recovery rate, time in heart rate zones, skin temperature, and activity highlights.Track multiple horses: Create individual horse profiles so the wrap and sensor can be used on multiple horses.Heat Score: Receive guidance on how safe it is to ride at any time with a heat score that takes into account the current air temperature and humidity.Data on the wrist: Track training, recovery and transport activities at a glance when using the Blaze Connect IQ app on a compatible Garmin smartwatch.Featuring up to 25 hours of battery life, the sensor can be easily removed from the wrap for cleaning and charging. The Blaze equine wellness system is available now for $599.99.Engineered on the inside for life on the outside, Garmin products have revolutionized life for adventurers, athletes, off-road explorers, road warriors, and outdoor enthusiasts everywhere. Committed to developing products that enhance experiences, enrich lives, and help provide peace of mind, Garmin believes every day is an opportunity to innovate and a chance to beat yesterday. Visit the Garmin Newsroom, email our media team, connect with @garminoutdoor on social, or follow our blog.1. Requires a connection with BLUETOOTH technology. Accuracy of estimations can vary due to multiple factors, such as fit, physical characteristics, and intensity of activity.

A study carried out by the Royal Veterinary College (RVC) has discovered thatThoroughbred foals are more likely to go on to race, compete more often, and earn more prize money if they are given extensive turnout in larger pastures during their first six months of life and are weaned later.The findings showed that turnout and weaning practices provide sufficient opportunity for positive tissue adaptation and optimal development. Breeders are therefore encouraged to maximise turnout whenever possible, and to consider weaning after this critical period.The research followed 129 flat race bred Thoroughbred foals on six stud farms across the UK from birth up until the end of their fourth year.Daily records of the foals, who were born in 2019 and 2020, health and management from birth until they left the stud farm were studied as were their race performance records. The reproductive history of the foals dams and details of her health and management during pregnancy were also collected.Statistical modellingThe RVC team then used statistical modelling to evaluate relationships between gestational exposures and early-life experiences.Findings suggested that the use of more extensive turnout practices during the first six months of life and later weaning benefited the attainment of career milestones, productivity (the number of races) and financial returns (total prizemoney won).This study is the first of its type to evaluate the effect of early-life experiences on later-life performance in Thoroughbred racehorses, providing important novel findings that can be directly applied at the stud farm level to reduce wastage and improve performance in this population, said Dr Rebecca Mouncey, veterinary surgeon and post-doctoral research fellow at the RVC.Our findings highlight that the first six months of life are a critical period of development in Thoroughbreds, during which we must be mindful to ensure that our management practices provide sufficient opportunity for positive tissue adaptation and optimise development.The research, which was funded by the Horserace Betting Levy Board, the Racing Foundation and the RVCs Mellon Fund for Equine Research, has been published in the Equine Veterinary Journal.Image Royal Veterinary College.Related contentSafeguarding the wellbeing of all former racehorses: RoR updates its eligibility criteriaNew scheme offers training and support for ex-racehorses transitioning into second careerCharity asks public to write to their MP in attempt to end horse smugglingEx-racehorse is trampled and fractures skull in overloaded lorry destined for slaughterThe post First six months of life is a critical period of development in Thoroughbreds, study reveals appeared first on Your Horse.

SmartEquine, the No. 1 Equine Health Brand, has announced the launch of EasyPouches, a convenient, single-supplement solution that gives horse owners, barn managers, and caretakers a faster, simpler, and more accurate way to provide daily supplements while reducing environmental impact.Responding to years of feedback from horse owners, caretakers, and trainers, EasyPouches combine SmartEquines trusted formulas with a simple tear and pour system that eliminates guesswork, mess, and excess plastic. Each box delivers 28 pre-measured, airtight pouchesperfectly portioned for daily useensuring every horse receives the right product at peak freshness, every time.Were always listening to our customers, said John Barry, CEO of SmartEquine. Time is precious at the barn, and equine caretakers want a solution thats fast, accurate, and waste conscious. EasyPouches deliver on all fronts: the right amount, the right way, in packaging thats better for the planet.Convenient, Accurate, and SustainableSmartEquine EasyPouches are built for every type of horse owner whether youre a competitor on the road, a barn manager overseeing a team, or simply streamlining daily feeding at home. The slim pouches stack neatly in recyclable cardboard caddies, replacing bulky containers and buckets. No scooping, no measuring, no second-guessingjust quick, reliable feeding that works for both horse and handler.Sustainability was a priority from the very start of development. Each EasyPouch is made with 30% post-consumer recycled (PCR) material and uses up to 69% less plastic than traditional buckets. Horse owners told us they care deeply about reducing environmental impact, Barry said. With EasyPouches, we can deliver the same trusted product using a fraction of the plastic and leaving a much smaller footprint.Trusted Nutrition, Unchanged FormulasThe initial launch includes 28 of SmartEquines best-selling supplements across 10 categoriesranging from joint support to digestive healthdelivered in the same proven formulas customers already know and trust. EasyPouches are not replacing SmartEquines popular SmartPaks; rather, they expand choice, especially for horse owners who rely on single supplements, travel frequently, or coordinate feeding with multiple caretakers.Each pouch is clearly labeled with the supplement name and feeding instructions, ensuring easy, accurate use by both owners and barn staff. The compact stackable storage caddies further reduce clutter in tack rooms and feed areas, keeping spaces organized and functional.Serving a Diverse Equestrian CommunitySmartEquine EasyPouches have been designed with all customers in mind, from competitive riders and professionals managing large facilities to casual owners who simply want peace of mind in their horses daily care. For barn managers and those who regularly delegate feeding duties, the color-coded, easy-to-use pouches reduce errors, streamline routines, and boost consistency. Customers ordering through SmartEquines AutoShip program will also soon receive personalized barn caddies labeled with their horses name, making it even easier to ensure the right supplement goes to the right horse. Pricing and AvailabilityEasyPouches are available immediately starting at just $22.95 per month through SmartEquines convenient AutoShip program. The line is offered in three distinct tiers, designed to meet the unique needs of every horse:Essential: Daily support for general health and wellness.Advanced: Targeted nutrition solutions for horses with moderate workloads or more specialized needs.Ultimate: Premium solutions for horses with intense workloads or highly specialized needs.About SmartEquineSmartEquine is dedicated to elevating equine well-being through scientifically developed supplements, innovative wellness solutions, and expert guidance from industry leaders to address the unique needs of every horse. To learn more about our one-of-a-kind approach to horse health, visit www.SmartEquine.com.

Zoetis Inc. has announced findings from new research conducted by the University of Pennsylvania New Bolton Center. Thestudy1compared quantities of alpha-2-macroglobulin (A2M); immunomodulatory cytokines, including IL-1, IL-1Ra, IL-4, IL-6, IL-10, IL-17a, and TNF-; and the growth factor TGF-1 in the outputs of four commercially available orthobiologics: Pro-Stride APS, Restigen PRP, Alpha2EQ and Arthrex ACP using blood samples from six healthy horses.Results indicated both Pro-Stride APS and Restigen PRPdevices may be more effective in modulating inflammation and promoting healing than the other devices tested. Key findings included:Both Pro-Stride and Restigen produced high levels of IL-1ra. The ratio of IL-1Ra to IL-1 needed to promote joint health is 100:1 or greater; only Pro-Stride APS and Restigen PRP exceeded this threshold while Alpha 2EQ and Arthrex ACP did not. Interestingly, IL-1ra levels in Alpha2EQ and Arthrex ACP were below the level of detection.Pro-Stride produced a significantly higher concentration of A2M than Alpha2EQ.Levels of TGF- 1, a protein important for cartilage maintenance and repair, were significantly higher in Pro-Stride, Restigen and Arthrex, compared to Alpha2EQ.No significant differences were found in the concentrations of IL-1, IL-4, IL-6, IL-10 and IL-17a between devices.Our priority at Zoetis is to provide veterinarians with scientifically backed products they can confidently use to safely and effectively treat their equine patients, said Dr. Nathan Voris, Director of Equine Technical Services at Zoetis. This new study highlights the value of our Pro-Stride and Restigen devices and adds to the industrys base of knowledge around the differences between available orthobiologic options. Studies like this help veterinarians and horse owners make informed decisions for their horse.It is important for us as equine veterinarians to gain understanding of what makes up the orthobiologics we use. explains Kyla Ortved, DVM, PhD, DACVS, DACVSMR, associate professor of large animal surgery, University of Pennsylvania School of Veterinary Medicine. Although a significant amount of work is still required to fully understand all the options we have available, we felt this study was important as it highlights differences in some of the major cytokines and proteins we think about when managing joint disease.These findings back up previousresearch2, in which scientists also found the Pro-Stride and Restigen devices produced more platelet-derived growth factors and white-blood-cell-derived anti-inflammatory cytokines in the cellular output, as well as a significantly higher concentration of A2M than the final plasma output of Alpha2EQ.2ZoetisPro-StrideandRestigendevices are comprehensive therapies for the management and treatment of osteoarthritis and soft tissue injuries. Pro-Stride and Restigen, together withCenTrateBMA(equine bone marrow aspirate device), make up Zoetis family of regenerative medicine devices to help veterinarians manage equine lameness.Learn more about the regenerative medicine device portfoliohere. Contact your local Zoetis Equine specialist or call 1-888-ZOETIS1 with questions.ReferencesBarot D, Usimaki A, Linardi R et al. Equine autologous blood-based products contain variable quantities of transforming growth factor-1, interleukin-1 receptor agonist, and 2-macroglobulin. AJVR. Jan 30, 2025. DOI:https://doi.org/10.2460/ajvr.24.11.0363Ortved, KF, Alward, L, Cowles, B, et al. Use of quantitative mass spectrometry-based proteomics and ELISA to compare the alpha 2 macroglobulin concentration in equine blood-based products processed by three different orthobiologic devices. Front. Vet. Sci. 2024;11. DOI:https://doi.org/10.3389/fvets.2024.1335972

EP29: Rescuing Horses with HAPPA Just Horse Riders PodcastIn episode 29 of the Just Horse Riders Podcast, our host Aaron Englander sits down with Sarah Arthur, CEO of HAPPA (Horses and Ponies Protection Association). What follows is an inspiring, emotional, and sometimes eye-opening conversation about equine welfare, second chances, and the sheer dedication it takes to run a rescue charity.If you havent already, you can watch the full episode on YouTube or listen on Spotify. Trust usyoull want to hear these stories straight from Sarah.Who Are HAPPA?HAPPA is one of the UKs leading equine charities, rescuing, rehabilitating, and rehoming horses, ponies, and donkeys since 1937. Based at Shores Hey Farm in Burnley, Lancashire, the charity not only saves equines in distress but also provides education, community events, and even runs an award-winning caf (because horse rescuers need coffee too).Meet the Guest: Sarah ArthurSarahs journey is nothing short of remarkable. She began at HAPPA in 2004 as a stable hand and, through passion and determination, worked her way up to become CEO. As she told Aaron: I started in 2004 as a stable hand, working with the horses on the yard... through hard work, mentoring and qualifications, I made it in the end, seven years ago.The Harsh Realities of Equine RescueRunning a charity like HAPPA is no small task. As Sarah shared, Its 22,000 a week to keep us going. Thats how much it costs. From veterinary bills to rehabilitation facilities, the scale of care is immense. Yet, despite the challenges, HAPPA never loses sight of its mission: to give every horse a second chance.Stories That Stay With YouThroughout the episode, Sarah recounts moving and sometimes shocking stories of rescue. One such case was Bertie and his mother Kiwi. Kiwi was emaciated, but somehow stayed alive to protect her foal. Sarah recalls: The vets gave us two choices: put him to sleep, or give him a chance. We decided to give him a chance.Bertie not only survived but went on to become a riding horse and, later, a beloved companion. His story shaped HAPPAs approach to rehoming, ensuring every horse has a lifetime safeguard.From Trauma to TrustHAPPAs work often begins with horses that are terrified of humans. Sarah explained: We have horses that come to us that dont want to be touched by humans. They stand stunned with their heads in the corner of the stables. They dont want to be around humans.Through patience, gentle handling, and skilled equine care officers, these horses slowly learn to trust again. Its a reminder of how resilient horses can be when given love and care.The Foster and Loan SchemesRehoming isnt just about finding any home; its about finding the right home. HAPPA runs foster and loan schemes to ensure that every horse is matched with the right person. Its almost like a dating service... the person has to match the horse, not the other way around.This thoughtful approach ensures long-term success and prevents horses from ever falling back into the welfare system.The Human Side of HorsesOne of the most powerful messages in this episode is that horses are not just animalstheyre companions, healers, and sometimes even therapists. Sarah described them as our psychologists, reading people instantly and often providing comfort in ways humans cannot.Education and CommunityHAPPA doesnt just save horsesit educates people too. From hosting equine care courses to creating a museum documenting their history, the charity invests in raising welfare standards across the board. And lets not forget their dog-friendly caf, which doubles as a way to help desensitize horses to dogs.Why Public Support MattersUnlike some charities, HAPPA receives no government funding. Instead, it relies on donations, legacy gifts, caf visitors, and second-hand tack sales. Sarah put it bluntly: 64% of our income is through legacies and gifts in peoples wills. Without public support, their work simply wouldnt be possible.Key Takeaways from the EpisodeHorses are resilient with the right care, even the most traumatised animals can recover.Rehoming is a science matching the right horse to the right home ensures long-term welfare.Community matters from dog-friendly cafs to second-hand tack shops, everyone can play a part.Funding is vital without donations and legacy gifts, equine rescue charities cannot survive.How You Can Support HAPPAIf youve been inspired by Sarahs words, there are plenty of ways to help. You can visit Shores Hey Farm, donate, volunteer, or even consider fostering a horse. Most importantly, you can spread the wordbecause the more people know about HAPPA, the more horses get a second chance.Watch or Listen to the Full ConversationWeve only scratched the surface here. To hear the full storyincluding tales of donkeys with attitude and foals named after crispsyoull need to watch the full episode on YouTube or listen now on Spotify.Explore More from Just Horse RidersAt Just Horse Riders, were passionate about equestrian life. From riding gear to horse supplements, we provide everything you need to support your equestrian journey.Jodhpur CollectionHorse Riding Boot CollectionHorse Riding Gloves CollectionHorse Riding Socks CollectionHorse Treats and GiftsEveryday Horse Vitamins & SupplementsStable RugsTurnout RugsHorse Fly ProtectionStay ConnectedFollow Just Horse Riders for more podcasts, equestrian tips, and updates:FacebookInstagramTikTokYouTubeFinal ThoughtsEpisode 29 of the Just Horse Riders Podcast is more than just a chatits a window into the world of equine rescue and rehabilitation. As Sarah so beautifully put it, The horses have shown us the way.If you want to be inspired, educated, and reminded of the incredible bond between humans and horses, then watch now or listen now. You wont regret it.

As the 2025 Equine Sports Medicine Symposium places a spotlight on metabolic disease, EZium is proud to support the event and introduce veterinarians and equine professionals to EZium Metabolic a science-backed nutritional supplement that contains ingredients backed by over 20 years of research to support horses facing metabolic dysfunction, chronic stress, and related health complications.EZium Metabolic combines highly bioavailable chelated magnesium glycinate with FDA-reviewed chromium propionate to optimize glucose metabolism, replenish glycogen stores, regulate cortisol, and reduce the negative impacts of stress on the equine body.Our goal with EZium Metabolic is to offer targeted support for horses that are struggling with insulin resistance, laminitis, obesity, or stress-related complications, said Dr. Teena Middleton, founder of EZium. By providing a supplement that contains ingredients proven to address both metabolic and hormonal factors, we can help improve overall health, recovery, and performance.The Science of Glucose UtilizationEvery cell in the horses body relies on glucose to fuel its function and growth. Magnesium and chromium work together to unlock the glucose absorption pathway into the cells, increasing glucose uptake across tissues. This is particularly important for skeletal muscle, where replenished glycogen stores translate to improved energy availability and better physical performance.Low muscle glycogen levels can significantly impair recovery and stamina. By enhancing cellular glucose absorption, the nutrients in EZium Metabolic helps restore energy reserves and maintain consistent output during work or competition.Moreover, activated immune cells rely exclusively on glucose for energy, especially during immune responses to disease or environmental challenges. Supporting glucose uptake may therefore improve the horses ability to mount a defense against illness, even under pressure.Stress, Cortisol, and Chromiums Critical RoleIn times of stress whether physical, psychological, or environmental the horses body releases cortisol, a hormone that not only raises blood sugar but also suppresses immunity, impairs digestion, and increases the risk of gastric ulcers, colic, and diarrhea.The demand for chromium can spike up to 300 times higher during these stress events, often leaving horses depleted and more vulnerable to health consequences.EZium Metabolic supplies chromium propionate, the only FDA-reviewed form of chromium for animal use, which has been clinically shown to reduce serum cortisol. Lower cortisol means fewer of the downstream complications associated with stress, and better recovery following high-stakes exertion or emotional strain.Heat Tolerance and Metabolic ResilienceEmerging evidence also suggests that increased glucose uptake improves thermal tolerance in heat-stressed animals. For performance horses competing or training in hot climates, the metabolic benefits of the nutrients in EZium Metabolic may support not just recovery, but resilience under pressure.Metabolic health isnt just about managing disease its about enabling horses to thrive under physical, environmental, and emotional stressors, Dr. Middleton added. Thats what EZium Metabolic is built to do.Optimized Ingredients for Maximum BenefitEZium products set themselves apart with the use of magnesium glycinate, a chelated form of magnesium bound to glycine that offers up to four times the bioavailability of more common forms like magnesium oxide or magnesium citrate.Chelated minerals are gentler on the gut and absorbed more efficiently, making them a better long-term option for horses needing daily support.The formula is delivered as a highly palatable pellet, available in resealable packaging sized for 1, 2, or 4month supply. It contains no substances banned by any equine governing body, and is produced here in the USA.By optimizing glucose utilization, regulating cortisol, and restoring essential nutrients, were providing essential nutrients that help horses not just survive metabolic stress but actually thrive in spite of it, Dr. Middleton said.About EZiumE-Z Equine is an equine supplement company dedicated to providing highly bioavailable, safe, and effective magnesium-based formulas for horses. Founded by a lifelong horsewoman with a passion for science-backed solutions, EZium uses chelated magnesium glycinateabsorbed more than four times better than standard magnesium sourcesto support metabolic health, reduce the negative impacts of stress, and optimize performance. EZium products are proudly manufactured in the USA and trusted by veterinarians, trainers, and riders across disciplines. For more information, visit www.EZium.org

Ocala, FL World Equestrian Center Ocala (WEC) is proud to announce a partnership withThe Wild Horse Refuge (TWHR), owned and operated by The Wild Animal Sanctuary and dedicated to the conservation and rewilding of wild horses. This collaboration represents a meaningful step forward in advancing TWHRs mission to provide a natural, free-roaming sanctuary for mustangs on 30,000 acres of open range. Through this[...]Read MoreThe post WEC Ocala Partners with The Wild Horse Refuge to Support Wild Horse Conservation appeared first on World Equestrian Center.

On Aug. 22, a 3-year-old Quarter Horse stallion in Polk County, Iowa, tested positive for West Nile virus (WNV). The horse, who is unvaccinated, developed clinical signs on Aug. 16, including ataxia, facial nerve paralysis, fever, and lethargy. He is now recovering.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.