School children have repurposed 500 plastic bottles in a bid to make the environment safer for the donkeys their communities rely on.Members of Brookes Donkey Care Clubs have been doing their bit to reduce plastic pollution this World Environmental Health Day (26 September).Children at a Nairobi school in Kenya used their creative skills to transform the bottles into stationery and ornaments, as well as an irrigation system to support water sustainability.Our learners are not just reusing, they are learning creativity, critical thinking, and collaboration to support donkeys and the people who depend on them, said Faith, the club patron.One of the children, Marion, shows off her creations Brookes Donkey Care Clubs teach Kenyan children how to look after donkeys. The equines are often a lifeline to their families as they help them to earn an income, carrying goods as well as fetching water.I love turning trash into something beautiful, said Alex, a Donkey Care Club pupil. My parents now help me collect bottles at home and I use them to make beautiful wristbands.Another pupil added that their creations remind them to care for the environment every day.Emily with her donkeysWithout proper disposal, bottles mount up in compounds, roadside markets and grazing fields. Donkeys sometimes swallow bottles and other plastics, leading to serious health issues like colic.The open burning of plastics also pollutes the air, endangering both people and animals.Thanks to the pupils creations, hundreds of plastic bottles have been prevented from ending up in dumpsites and grazing fields, reducing risks to donkeys and livestock. The school playground has also been transformed into a cleaner and more inspiring space.Further readingNew home and friend for abandoned donkey who was scared of peopleBrooke launches emergency appeal to help equines in floodsHorse feed manufacturer launches survey aimed at reducing plastic packagingThe post Children transform trash to help protect donkeys appeared first on Your Horse.

Key Points Details Economic and Emotional Impact Horse ownership contributes ~$177 billion to U.S. economy and supports 2.2 million jobs. It's not just an investment but also an emotional bond, making selling decisions complex. Financial Viability Annual costs of maintaining a horse are high; the horse racing market is robust, expected to reach $523 billion by 2025, easing concerns on finding buyers. Time Commitment Daily care and training are essential. If time becomes an issue, selling might ensure the horse gets adequate care from new owners. Horse's Health and Age Aging or injured horses need care that could be financially burdensome. Owners must evaluate if they can manage medical expenses or pass responsibility. Passion and Goals Changing interests or goals related to competition or recreational riding can lead owners to consider selling. Finding the Right Buyer Ethical selling practices involve ensuring the horses well-being by selecting a responsible and caring new owner. Supporting Statistics 1.2% of U.S. households own horses; 30.5% have horse enthusiasts. Equestrian equipment shows steady 4.3% CAGR, indicating market stability. The Dilemma of the Horse Owner: To Sell or Not to Sell?Owning a horse is often much more than a hobbyit's a lifestyle infused with passion, responsibility, and a significant financial commitment. For many horse owners, the question of whether to sell their horse can be deeply challenging, balancing emotional attachment with practical considerations such as costs, time, and changing personal circumstances.Understanding the Economic and Emotional StakesThe horse industry is a major economic sector contributing approximately $177 billion to the U.S. economy and supporting 2.2 million jobs, underscoring the scale of investment involved in horse ownership[6]. For owners, costs go beyond the initial purchase price: daily care, feed, vet bills, training, and equipment collectively add up. For example, the North American equestrian equipment market alone was valued at around $904 million in 2024, with a steady growth projection indicating ongoing expenses in gear and supplies[2][3].Emotionally, horses often become companions, athletes, and family members all in one. This deep bond complicates decisions about selling, as it can feel like losing a part of ones identity or routine. The dilemma intensifies when owners face injury, aging horses, financial strain, or shifts in personal priorities such as time availability.Key Factors to Consider When Deciding to SellFinancial ViabilityMaintaining a horse can cost thousands annually. If the financial burden becomes unsustainable, selling the horse may be prudent. Considering market trends, horse racing and equine sports continue growing globallyhorse racing alone is expected to reach a $523 billion market by 2025, maintaining a CAGR (compound annual growth rate) around 8.8%, indicating steady demand and liquidity in horse sales[1]. This could be reassuring for owners worried about finding a buyer.Time CommitmentHorses require daily care and regular training. If owners schedules or health no longer allow adequate time, the welfare of the horse may be compromised. Selling can be a responsible choice if suitable new owners can provide proper attention.Horse's Health and AgeAging or injured horses may no longer be capable of active work, affecting their market value and care needs. Owners must balance whether they can continue investing in medical care or prefer transferring responsibility.Passion and GoalsOwners committed to competing or recreational riding might sell if their interests or goals change. Market growth, especially in equestrian equipment and riding segments, shows broad participation in the sport, but personal circumstances fluctuate[3].Finding the Right BuyerEthical selling practices prioritize the horses future wellbeing. Ensuring the horse goes to a qualified owner interested in proper care is critical.Facts and Figures Supporting the Owner DecisionApproximately 1.2% of U.S. households own a horse, but 30.5% have horse enthusiasts, indicating a solid community to engage for sales or support[6].The equestrian equipment markets steady 4.3% CAGR and the horse racing industrys strong performance indicate that horse ownership and related industries remain robust and financially active[1][3].Market regional stability (particularly in North America), cultural interest, and technological advances like online sales and streaming enhance opportunities for selling horses responsibly and efficiently[1][2].ConclusionThe decision To Sell or Not to Sell? is multifaceted. It involves balancing emotional bonds, financial realities, time constraints, and the horse's welfare. While the horse industry shows positive economic trends that may ease selling concerns, owners must carefully assess their situation and prioritize the horses quality of life above all.For those facing this dilemma, consulting local equine professionals, veterinarians, and reputable sales platforms while engaging with the wider horse community can provide guidance and support throughout the process.This careful approach reflects both the values of horse owners and the responsibility toward these noble animals within a growing, dynamic industry.```html```

Table of ContentsToggleClearing Stuck EmotionsA Voice and a ChoiceTry It YourselfHow to Clear and GroundThere is a growing desire among equestrians to learn more about animal communication to connect more deeply with horses. People are beginning to know, sense, and feel that there is much more to understanding equines besides just reading their body language.Photo by Christiane SlawikIts important to have a great trainer to learn the fundamentals of good horsemanship and riding, and also a good support team (farrier, veterinarian, et cetera) for a horses physical wellness. But what about a horses emotional wellness or spiritual connection?Horses are great feelers. As sentient beings, they have emotions like we do, and feel love, joy, gratitude, and connection with each other and with us. They can also feel anger, frustration, fear, and sadness based on current life circumstances or past traumatic events.As prey animals, we know they easily move between sympathetic (fight, flight, freeze) and parasympathetic (rest and digest) states.Clearing Stuck EmotionsAs a trained animal communicator, I find its very helpful to be a part of a horse parents support team when it comes to enhancing their horses emotional fitness. We often focus on just the physical nature of the horse, and yet there is a great mind-body connection that also needs to be addressed.Ive found in many sessions that behavioral issues are linked to emotions that need to be acknowledged and released. Im grateful for my training in various emotional clearing techniques that greatly benefit horses (and humans, too!) when they are used in communication and healing sessions.Horses can have stuck emotions such as lack of control or frustration, and can be more governed by fear and past traumas rather than feeling grounded and connected to current reality.When I first adopted my horse, she was guarded and had stuck emotions around abandonment that I helped her to clear, and then our bond grew through trust.All animals, like humans, can also have heart walls. This is something Bradley Nelson, D.C., discovered in his Emotion Code work. These can prevent horses from receiving and experiencing the good that is here for them now. Sometimes horses also need to release emotions they still have from old barns and owners where they used to live and werent happy, so Ive helped them release the past and start with a clean slate.In addition, horses are often seen as incredible spiritual beings because they spend a lot of time in a meditative state and can be very still and loving. Many people feel safe crying around them and feel that they evoke awe and wonder.A Voice and a ChoiceThese spiritual components are another part of good animal communication, and we can delve into what our horses truly want to be doing in their lives and with their humans. Some want to be great athletes and enjoy physical exercise and competition with their humans; some want to be teachers and healers in equine-assisted therapy or coaching; and others would prefer to be companions without specific work.Some horses prefer an athletic career and thrive on exercise and competition. Photo by Christiane SlawikWe can learn their unique preferences and purposes when we learn to speak with them. It helps them to feel understood, honored, and content when they are allowed to have a voice and a choice.Many times, horses want to know our expectations for them in our riding relationships. They want to know if and when they will be moved or transported, and if a herd member will be coming or leaving.Horses want to know if they will be transported somewhere or if a friendly herd member will be coming or going. Photo by Christiane SlawikThey want to express their thoughts about the other members of their support team, such as their vet, farrier, trainer and rider. They also want us to know what bothers them and how they are feeling. All of that information can help their emotional fitness once we are able to understand them better and meet their needs. What many horses love to communicate is their hearts desires for their life (their purpose work) and how they want to help their humans. They want their humans to know how much they are loved and often want to share how they see their humans. They can have great guidance for how their humans can heal and improve all their relationships.What many horses love to communicate is their desire for their purpose work and how they want to help their humans. Photo by Christiane SlawikWhen animals can get messages across, it makes both their lives and ours easier. They can ask for what they need and want for themselves and for us as well. We dont need to guess or become frustrated; we can learn how to be helpful to them.Time after time, I have witnessed a horses relationship with his human grow stronger immediately after a session because he finally feels like he was able to fully express himself.Try It YourselfIn addition to hiring a great animal communicator to be a part of your support team for your horse, you can also learn how to become one yourself. Whether you want to become a professional or you just want to use the skills personally, there are many benefits to animal communication.At the core, it comes down to a horse feeling seen, heard, valued, and appreciated. Here are some of my top tips and tools to begin horse communication.1. Permission: Ask your horse if you have permission to chat. Ive found they always want to talk, as long as its a good time and they are in a restful state and not in the middle of playing with friends or taking a lesson, et cetera.2. Space: Create a specific time and place where its quiet and you can bring a journal and really focus on listening and practicing.3. Intention: Set an intention to connect from your heart space to theirs. You can even put one hand on your heart and the other on your horses heart and breathe for a minute. Feel how much you love your horse, then set an intention to receive information from him. Start with simple questions, such as, How are you feeling today? and What are you enjoying today?Set an intention to connect from your heart space to your horses and breathe for a minute. Photo by Christiane Slawik4. Surrender: Let go of attachment to an outcome by staying curious and having fun. Keep it light, simple, and flowing. Assume you already know this skill and can do it! Stay open to how you might receive information, as we are all a bit different with our intuitive skills.For instance, I am more clairaudient, so I hear what the horses say. If you feel and sense a lot, you may be more clairsentient, and if you see pictures or images, then you may be more clairvoyant.5. Receive: Keep your body posture open and stay in your heart space. Breathe. Dont overthink. Smile if you find yourself in your head. Go back to how much you love your horse. And allow your imagination to lead. Just write down whatever comes forward.6. Gratitude: Thank yourself for trying and being willing to experiment. Thank your horse and share why this practice matters to you. Set another time with your horse for consistency and to improve over time.How to Clear and GroundIn addition to communication, healing work is also important to offer horses. Equines are often at their safest, for themselves and others, when they feel grounded to their space and land. They feel their best when they are in their own energy signature and not carrying stuck energy.Horses are often at their safest, for themselves and others, when they feel grounded to their space and land. Photo by Christiane SlawikClearing: One of my favorite ways to help a horse is to clear his energy field by gently clapping around his body. First test the clap to make sure he doesnt startle, then move around his body with the intention that stuck energy will leave. Watch to see how your horse likes this and if he is receiving (for example yawning, blinking, nodding, getting sleepy). I have a video demonstrating this on my YouTube channel.Grounding: You can also put your hands around a horses hoof by the coronary band and gently press and imagine your horse connecting more fully to the ground below. Ask for healthy Earth energy to come up into your horse as well. Do this on each of the four hooves. This is great to add to a hoof picking routine or to do before you ride.Enjoy these new experiences with him and youll grow your human-horse-heart connection. Your horse will thank you!This article about using animal communication for a deeper connection with your horse appeared in the October 2024 issue of Horse Illustratedmagazine.Click here to subscribe!The post Using Animal Communication for a Deeper Connection with Your Horse appeared first on Horse Illustrated Magazine.

Crisp mornings, golden leaves autumn riding is here! Our October group riding lessons are now open at Gransha Equestrian Centre.Whether youre starting out or sharpening your skills, theres a place for you in the arena this month. Book now via our app or website. New riders dont forget the Rider Registration Form!Join the fun and make October one to remember at Gransha - we look forward yo seeing you!

Key Point Details Understanding the Connemara Sport Horse Originates from western Ireland, known for resilience, versatility, and excellent jumping ability. Why Choose a Registered Breeder? Registered breeders follow guidelines and maintain health records; BCPS ensures transparency and credibility. Reputation and Experience Reputation reflects experience; engage with regional pony groups for recommendations. Health Testing and Veterinary Care Prioritize comprehensive health testing to prevent genetic illnesses and ensure regular veterinary care. Performance Record and Progeny Success Breeders with a solid performance history provide assurance of ponies' potential. Environment and Horse Welfare Breeders facility should be well-maintained to influence temperament and soundness. Support and Aftercare Breeders should offer ongoing support, training advice, and have a network for selling/re-homing ponies. Where to Start Your Search in the UK BCPS, National Pony Society, social media, and pony societies; attend events and sales for firsthand experience. Facts and Figures Connemaras stand 13-15 hands high; health certification is crucial among leading breeders. Final Tips Maintain clear communication, request health records, trial ponies, and join forums for advice. How to Find the Perfect Connemara Sport Horse Breeder in the UKFinding the perfect Connemara sport horse breeder in the UK is akin to searching for a fine vintage wine. It involves patience, research, and a keen sense of criteria to ensure that you select only the best. Choosing a Connemara is not just about jumping ability but about the total package temperament, build, and versatility, making them highly sought-after sport horses.Understanding the Connemara Sport HorseThe Connemara pony hails from the rugged landscapes of western Ireland, tailored by nature to be resilient and robust. With its excellent jumping ability and calm demeanor, it is the equestrian equivalent of your all-terrain SUV always ready for action, whether it's a leisurely ride or a competitive showdown. This breeds innate versatility is precisely why breeders often seek to combine its natural traits with performance-driven characteristics for top-tier sport ponies.Why Choose a Registered Breeder?Opting for a breeder registered with quality assurance bodies such as the British Connemara Pony Society (BCPS) is akin to taking the toll route it may seem like an extra step, but it guarantees smoother travels. Registered breeders meticulously follow stringent guidelines and maintain accurate health records. Moreover, the BCPS site offers a valuable resource for verifying bloodlines and contact details of reputable breeders, ensuring transparency and credibility.Key Factors When Choosing a Connemara Sport Horse BreederReputation and ExperienceReputation isnt just a badge; its a testimony of experience and credibility. A long-standing reputation backed by competition winners speaks volumes about a breeder. Engaging with regional pony groups can also provide recommendations and insights from other seasoned equestrians.Health Testing and Veterinary CareHealth is wealth, especially for equine athletes. Responsible breeders prioritize comprehensive health testing to reduce genetic illnesses. Be it DNA testing for hereditary conditions or regular veterinary care, underscoring the breeder's commitment to health can save you and your pony a heap of trouble down the trail.Performance Record and Progeny SuccessA solid performance record is a firm handshake from the breeder, assuring you of their ponies potential. Many top breeders have a history of showcasing their ponies at local and national events, providing a reliable indicator of their progenys capabilities.Environment and Horse WelfareThe breeders facility should feel like a luxurious resort for ponies, of course. Well-maintained pastures and stress-free environments significantly influence the animals temperament and soundness. After all, nothing beats a pony bred in a harmonious habitat.Support and AftercareThe ideal breeder offers more than just a sale. Expect ongoing support and advice on training, nutrition, and even competition. A strong network for selling or rehoming older ponies ensures a support system, much like the family you never knew you needed.Where to Start Your Search in the UKThe British Connemara Pony Society (BCPS)This society is the go-to resource for finding registered breeders and stallion stud listings. With comprehensive information, you can make informed decisions with confidence.The National Pony SocietyHere lies a treasure trove of breeder listings. Connect with reputed breeders nationwide to start your journey toward owning a splendid Connemara.Social Media and Local Pony SocietiesIn today's digital age, many breeders use social media platforms to engage with potential buyers, sharing updates and achievements. Local pony societies are also excellent avenues for community advice and finding reputable breeders regional to your needs.Events and SalesWant to see prospective ponies up close? Consider attending Connemara Pony sales and fairs. Events like the Goresbridge Sport Horse Sales offer a firsthand experience, showcasing hyperlink:performance ponies destined for sports.Facts and Figures to Know The average Connemara stands between 13 to 15 hands high, underscoring its formidable jumping prowess. British Eventing and British Showjumping competitions increasingly feature Connemaras, marking their rising prominence in UK sport horse arenas. Health certification, including DNA testing for hereditary diseases, is a standard practice among leading breeders to ensure breed integrity.Final Tips Maintain clear communication with breeders about your performance goals. Request viewing of pedigree certificates and health records. A healthy history often translates into fewer surprises and unlimited gallops. Trial ponies to see if they jibe with your style, akin to test-driving your dream car. Learn from seasoned owners by joining British Connemara forums, soaking in the wisdom of the horse-loving crowd.Securing the perfect Connemara sport horse breeder involves due diligence and leveraging trusted resources such as strong breeder registries and verified health data. With patience and thorough research, you're well on your way to finding a quality pony that will excel on your chosen path.For further assistance and authoritative information on Connemara breeding in the UK, consider visiting: British Connemara Pony Society Stallions and Breeders National Pony Society Breeder Listings Connemara Studs Directory for health info and more. ```html```

On Sept. 19, a 10-year-old mare in Sanilac County, Michigan, tested positive for West Nile virus (WNV). The unvaccinated mare developed clinical signs on Sept. 6, including ataxia, gait changes, and recumbency. She was euthanized.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.