Working animal charity Brooke has appealed for urgent support to help thousands of animals including horses, donkeys and mules who have been affected by the devastating floods in Pakistan.Relentless monsoon rains have left 1,400 villages under water and affected more than two million people, creating an unprecedented crisis for animals and the people who care for them.It is estimated that 5,584 animalsincluding horses, donkeys, mules, goats and sheep, have died during the flash floods, landslides and cloudbursts across the country.Brookes disaster relief appeal will provide humanitarian and animal relief through veterinary services and supporting those who own animalsin Punjab and the north-west Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province.Thousands in needWorking with Pakistans National Disaster Management Authority and Livestock Department, the charity will use the funds generated by the appeal tobenefit 1,000 working animals and 6,000 animal-owning families in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.We are working around the clock to keep Pakistans working horses, donkeys and mules alive during this devastating crisis, said Chris Wainwright, Brookes chief executive officer.These animals are the heartbeat of rural families without them, people lose their ability to earn an income and put food on the table.By protecting animals, we are protecting entire communities from long-term suffering.Food insecurity concernsDue to the large loss of livestock, there is also regional concern about food insecurity. An estimated 300,000 farm animals have perished during the floods and many of those are essential in helping with agriculture and carrying water.Brooke also launched an emergency appeal in 2022 following widespread flooding in Paksitan.The appeal raised funds to help care for wounded, starving or unwell horses, donkeys and mules, as well as the communities they support.Donations to the appeal can be made via Brookes websitehere.Further readingHow to tell if a horse is happyHow to stop a horse bitingHow to stop a horse buckingCan you read your horses body language?How to take care of a horseThe post Brooke launches emergency appeal to help equines affected by Pakistans floods appeared first on Your Horse.

Rain scald is one of the most common skin conditions in horses and is often seen after prolonged periods of rain. Its caused by Dermatophilus congolensis, which is a bacterium that behaves both like bacteria and fungi.It causes crusty scabs and paint-brush hair tufts that can easily be pulled off, leaving hairless, pink and raw spots that can merge into larger areas. Its mostly seen on the top of the head, neck and back and isnt usually itchy to the horse. Its not a serious disease, but may lead to more severe secondary skin infections if not treated.Managing rain scaldRain scald may settle down by itself when the horse is removed from wet weather conditions, with lesions disappearing and new hair beginning to regrow after about 10 days. However, removing the scabs gently, treating the affected areas with an antiseptic wash and disinfecting any equipment the horse may have come into contact with (such as rugs and saddlecloths) may speed up the healing process.Its advisable to not ride your horse if there are any lesions in the saddle area, as it may worsen the condition and be painful to your horse.A flaky coat is typical with rain scaldPrevention tipsThe best prevention for rain scald is to protect your horse from rain. This can be by providing shelter or by putting on a light breathable rug when theyre turned out. Bear in mind that a heavy rug may trap moisture and worsen the condition if used unnecessarily, so avoid over-rugging even if it feels cold to you.Its also important to keep any kit and tack that comes into contact with your horse clean and avoid sharing equipment with other horses.If theres no improvement in your horses rain scald, or it becomes worse despite you taking preventative measures, your vet may advise checking your horse for any underlying conditions that could weaken their immune system, such as Cushings disease.Another trigger for rain scald can be backs that become hot and sweaty when the horse is being ridden, which are then not washed off properly after. Alternatively, they may be washed off well but the back isnt given enough time to dry properly before a rug is put back on the horse. This trapped moisture is ideal conditions for rain scald to occur.Main causesDermatophilus congolensisis also one of the causes of mud fever in horses. Just as the name mud fever is misleading because the condition is not caused by mud, the name rain scald is also misleading. This is because rain scald isnt caused by rain itself, but by moisture that becomes trapped in the horses coat and has no chance to escape either because it has rained for a very long time or because a rug was put on a horse before they had completely dried.Because the bacteria lives under the rain scald scabs, it is important that these are removed before treatment is attempted. Bear in mind that this can be painful for the horse, especially if the skin underneath is sore and oozing, and so it might be necessary to soften scabs first using warm soapy water. After applying an antibacterial solution, the area should be rinsed. It is then very important to thoroughly dry the horse.Main image Shutterstock. Inset: XLEquine VetRelated contentDoes your horse really need to wear a rug when its wet?Cushings disease in horses: vet advice for recognising and managing symptomsMud fever products and barrier creams to keep legs healthyDr David Marlin explains when a horse feels coldThe post Rain scald in horses explained appeared first on Your Horse.

Your Horse is supported by our audience and when you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission.Heres how it worksHorse riding requires a saddle and it is likely to be the most expensive item of tack that you find yourself buying, with prices ranging from the hundreds up to well into the thousands. Choosing the best one for you and your horse is critical, because it must fit, and be comfortable for, you both.There are plenty of saddles out there to choose from, and whether you opt for a brand new model or a second-hand one, youll be spoilt for choice. Employing the services of a saddle fitter is ideal, as they will visit your yard to measure your horse and have a selection of saddles for you to try. Before this, it helps to know the kind of styles you like and have an idea of what you might be able to buy within your budget. Thats where Your Horse comes in!How we testOur testing team is made up of horse owners who ride regularly and take part in a range of activities, from hacking to grassroots-level competing. Each rider used their saddle for at least a year, so that they could get a really thorough idea of what it is like. Your Horseis not paid to test these products, so you can be sure the reviews youre reading are honest and without bias. We advise all saddles are professionally fitted by an SMS-registered saddle fitter.Wintec 500 All Purpose Saddle with CAIRLength of test: over 10 yearsAbout the saddle: A quality saddle with a supportive seat, and the added comfort and grip of its supple and durable leather-look material. After a big day of riding simply hose it off. Soft panels mould in and around the horses muscles and hug their conformation. Tester Aimi Clark, editor of Your Horse Online who owns/rides ex-racehorses, says: I am a big fan of this saddle and Ive owned three in the last 20 years or so, using them on different horses, mostly Thoroughbreds but originally on a Danish Warmblood.The latter used the saddle in a medium-wide gullet, and when he died the saddle sat unused until my family bought a little ex-racehorse who proved tricky to find a saddle for. In the end, my Wintec, now with a narrow gullet inside (I changed it myself its fiddly, but straightforward to do), came back into commission.What I love best about this saddle is its versatility. Its affordable, easy to look after, smart enough to do low-level competitions in, and comfortable for long rides, jumping and fast work. My top tip when cleaning it is to wipe it off with water only first, before using any synthetic-specific product, otherwise it can look greasy.I go hacking for miles and when I hunted regularly, I didnt have to worry about this saddle getting wet in the rain or scratched by low branches. Even after all this time it is in good condition; the only sign of wear and tear is a small chip of material missing from the point of cantle, which doesnt affect its use. Id say its been a very good investment!RRP 629. Easy to find second hand or to buy new from a local stockistThorowgood T4 Cob GP SaddleLength of test: 3 yearsAbout the saddle: This all-round saddle has been designed to suit the rounder build of a cob-type horse. It offers close contact to avoid that perched-on-top feeling and the medium depth seat is ideal for a range of activities. Four girthing options maximise the saddles stability, and the suede-effect seat covering and knee pads are non-slip and comfortable.Tester Lisa Johnson says: Many Arabs lack wither, a bit like cobs, and so this style of saddle really suits my Anglo Arab. Its useful that if your horse changes shape the saddle can be easily adjusted thanks to its changeable gullet system. The soft suede-effect seat and knee rolls makes this saddle hugely comfortable to ride in, as well as offering good security. I did, however, find that the cut of this saddle can push your lower leg position forward. The leather-look synthetic material is really easy to care for just wipe it over with a damp sponge and youre done.RRP 595Buy NowAlbion K2 GP SaddleLength of test: 12 monthsAbout the saddle: Designed for riders looking for a comfortable, high quality, all-round saddle thats suitable for all major disciplines. Offers comfort for both horse and rider and numerous fitting options, including Adjusta-Tree technology. Supports a secure, supportive seat and leg position.Your Horses tester Nicola Tym says: From new this saddle has fitted my horse well and been hugely comfortable for me too. My horse doesnt have any particular conformational quirks, and the fits been good from day one. The GP style means I can use this saddle for all disciplines. Its great for both hacking and jumping, and I find it easy to maintain a correct and secure position when riding. The saddle has always been very comfortable to ride in and the leather is easy to care for. With regular conditioning, its still in excellent condition.RRP 2,215Buy NowBates Dressage Saddle with CairLength of test: 5 yearsAbout the saddle: Features a deep seat with a narrow waist and broad sitting area for greater support for the rider, plus an adjustable ergonomic stirrup bar and Flexibloc systemtoensure an optimal dressage position. Includes the Easy Change Fit Solution andCair Cushion Systemfor a customisable fitand comfortable cushioning.Your Horses tester Fiona Scott says: Its great that the fit of this saddle can be altered if your horse changes shape, thanks to its Easy-Change Fit Solution, which ensures its comfortable year-round. The position of the stirrup bars on this saddle is set back a little, which Ive found puts my leg into the correct position. Its very comfortable to ride in and a big plus for me is that it makes me feel secure, but not restricted. After five years of use there are no signs of wear on this saddle, but Ive always made sure its cleaned and conditioned regularly to keep the leather looking good.RRP 1,799Buy NowIdeal Impala Pro Jump SaddleLength of test: 2 yearsAbout the saddle: A single flap close-contact saddle. The tree has a flat rake cantle for a more open seat making it ideal for cross-country riding. It also has a free-swinging girthing system allowing greater flexibility when fitting.Your Horses tester Rebecca Bullock says: This saddle is hugely comfortable for me, and my horse works very well under it too. This could, in part, be due to the single flap design, which definitely gives a closer feel with your horse. I have long legs and the forward cut of this saddle means I can ride with shorter stirrups comfortably (the flaps were made more forward cut for me). I always feel secure in it. In addition, I find the flatter seat gives me room to move, especially when riding cross-country.This saddle is easy to care for and the leather always cleans up nicely.RRP 2,495Buy NowGFS Monarch DressageLength of test: 3 yearsAbout the saddle: Suitable for all levels of dressage to help the rider improve their seat and leg position. It has a comfortable and balanced seat with a supportive block and extra padding on the knee. Built on a lightweight, flexible tree with an easy fit gullet system so the saddle can be easily adjusted.Your Horses tester Louise Haydon says: Being able to change the gullet in this saddle means that if my horse changes shape the saddle can be altered to fit him. Ive found it also allows my horse good freedom of movement. The shape of the knee roll and seat helps me sit comfortably and in the correct position. This also gives me a feeling of security when Im riding. The leather cleans easily and after applying conditioner it comes up looking like new with very little effort. Youd never think it was three years old.RRP around 800-1000. Buy second-hand from somewhere like The Saddle BankKent & Masters S-Series Dressage SaddleLength of test: 1 yearAbout the saddle: The low profile panel design of this saddle offers the rider a closer contact with their horse and good stability. It has moveable under-flap thigh blocks, which can be repositioned as required. A changeable gullet bar enables the saddle to be adjusted if your horse changes shape.Your Horses tester Kate Ingram says: The changeable gullet of this saddle is great, especially if you have a young horse whos changing shape, as it makes adjusting the fit far easier. I also think that my horse finds it comfortable, giving him freedom to move, as he goes well in it. I find this saddle really comfortable to ride in too, and I like the fact you can move the knee roll to suit you and support your leg where you need it. After a year of use there are no signs of wear on this saddle and, when its cleaned, the leather cleans well and comes up looking like new.RRP 872Buy NowHeather Moffett Flexee Finesse Dressage SaddleLength of test: one yearAbout the saddle: This saddle is built on a leather tree, a very old method of making a flexible saddle. Its ergonomically designed to allow the rider to sit in the correct ear/shoulder/hip/heel alignment. The Finesse synthetic material is almost indistinguishable from real soft hide. Your Horses tester Lucy Harvey says: This saddle offers a versatile fit due to its flexible tree, and my horse has always found it comfortable. The design really does help to put you in the correct riding position and its very comfortable. It is worth noting that the holes on this saddles girth straps are quite small, so it can be difficult to adjust your girth. As the manufacturer says, the material looks like leather but is actually synthetic, which is easier to care for. A quick wipe over with a damp cloth and it comes up looking like new.Buy NowRelated contentEssential guide to buying a saddleHow to make sure youre not buying a stolen saddleSMS saddle fitter shows you how to check the fit of a saddle *VIDEO*We have tried and tested these bridles for fit, value and performanceThe post This is what our testers think of these saddles after riding in them for at least 12 months appeared first on Your Horse.

Strategy Description Maintain Consistent and Enriched Environments Provide regular turnout and access to pasture to express natural behaviors, reducing stress and unwanted behaviors. Include varied environments for mental stimulation. Ensure Appropriate Social Contact Stable group compositions minimize aggression and stress-related behaviors by allowing for appropriate social interaction. Optimize Feeding Practices Offer frequent small meals or constant forage access to reduce stress and abnormal eating habits. Supplements can support balanced nutritional needs. Manage Training Progress and Consistency Avoid rapid progression in training to prevent confusion and resistance. Ensure clear communication to reduce anxiety. Incorporate Physical and Mental Enrichment Encourage curiosity and intelligence with activities like free movement, puzzle feeders, and learning new skills to prevent frustration. Monitor Health and Provide Adequate Recovery Regular health check-ups and allowing recovery time between training sessions helps avoid fatigue and behavioral issues due to elevated cortisol levels. Reduce Stress from Environmental Overstimulation Manage environments like shows or training areas carefully to prevent stress overload and reassures familiarity during exposure to noisy settings. What Are the Best Strategies for Managing Behavioral Changes in Young Horses Due to Environmental Shifts? Managing behavioral changes in young horses is a critical skill for anyone involved in their care. Young horses are highly sensitive to their surroundings, and even slight environmental shifts can trigger a range of behavioral issues. In this article, we will explore effective strategies to manage these changes while ensuring the horse remains healthy and ready for training. Understanding Behavioral Changes in Young Horses Young horses often face behavioral shifts when experiencing changes in their environment, such as confinement, changes in pasture access, or disruptions in their social groups. These can result in increased stress behaviors like pacing, biting, or even cribbing. It's important to remember that horses who are used to freedom and social interactions may become frustrated if isolated or confined for too long. According to The Willing Equine, prolonged stalling or insufficient forage can lead to more abnormal behaviors, including agonistic interactions and stress indicators like pawing and neighing. Key Strategies to Manage Behavioral Changes 1. Maintain Consistent and Enriched Environments The key to managing horse behavior effectively is ensuring a consistent and enriched environment. Regular turnout and access to pasture help horses express their natural behaviors, reducing stress and unwanted behaviors. Providing varied environments for mental stimulation and allowing them to interact with different horses and feed on diverse grasses can reduce boredom and frustration. Explore our Jodhpur Collection to find the perfect attire for your enriched riding experience. 2. Ensure Appropriate Social Contact Horses are highly social creatures. Stable group compositions minimize aggression and stress-related behaviors. Giving them the chance for appropriate social contact can prevent unnecessary loneliness, which can lead to anxiety and behavioral inconsistencies. 3. Optimize Feeding Practices Because horses are natural grazers, offering frequent small meals or constant access to forage is essential. It reduces stress and abnormal eating habits. Everyday supplements can further support their nutritional needs in a balanced way. 4. Manage Training Progress and Consistency Avoid the temptation to push young horses too quickly in training. Rapid progression can often lead to confusion and resistance such as bucking or rearing. Consistent and clear communication from handlers will reduce anxiety and misunderstanding. Consider our comprehensive Horse Riding Boot Collection to ensure comfort and support during training. 5. Incorporate Physical and Mental Enrichment Encourage horses' curiosity and intelligence with physical and mental enrichment activities such as free movement, puzzle feeders, or learning new skills. This can prevent frustration that often arises from confinement or monotony. 6. Monitor Health and Provide Adequate Recovery Regular health monitoring is crucial for young horses. Allowing time for recovery between training sessions helps avoid fatigue and elevated cortisol levels, which can exacerbate behavioral issues. Address any physical health concerns promptly to ensure pain or discomfort doesn't manifest as behavioral problems. 7. Reduce Stress from Environmental Overstimulation Environments like shows or training areas can be overstimulating for young horses. Managing these environments carefully to prevent stress overload is key. Overexposure to noisy or unpredictable settings can lead to extreme fear responses, which can be mitigated by providing the horse with reassuring familiarity. Supporting Facts and Figures Research indicates that horses confined to smaller environments demonstrate significantly more stress behaviors and fewer natural foraging and play behaviors. Studies published in PMC, NIH suggest that available forage leads to reduced stress, encouraging natural calmness. Moreover, cortisol levels have shown to be adversely affected by stress from environmental factors and overtraining, negatively impacting behavior (source: Just Horse Riders). Conclusion Effectively managing behavioral changes in young horses due to environmental shifts requires a holistic approach that addresses both their physical and psychological needs. With the right strategies in placefrom consistent environments and social contact to carefully-managed feeding schedules and trainingyoung horses can achieve healthy development and training readiness. For additional horse behavior advice, check out resources from UF/IFAS Extension among others. Also, visit our store for essential horse equipment and supplements. ```html```