Senior horses with PPID and EPM might struggle with weight and muscle loss. | iStockQ: I have a senior horse that has pituitary pars intermedia dysfunction (PPID, formerly equine Cushings disease) and recently was diagnosed with equine protozoal myeloencephalitis (EPM). For the past few months hes struggled to maintain a healthy weight and remains very thin despite my adding more calories to his diet. Im following my veterinarians treatment plan for both conditions, but what can I do to support my horse nutritionally in the meantime?A: Managing nutrition for senior horses can be challenging, especially when multiple health issues are at play, such as PPID and EPM. Its great your veterinarian is closely involved and treating both conditions because thats a critical first step.Understanding PPID and EPMPituitary pars intermedia dysfunction is a hormonal disorder, typically of older horses, that causes muscle loss, immune challenges, and sensitivity to sugar and starch. Equine protozoal myeloencephalitis is a neurologic disease caused by protozoal parasites that damage the central nervous system, often leading to weakness, weight loss, and muscle wasting.Managing either condition can be difficult on its own, but when they occur together, horses face both the metabolic restrictions of PPID and the added nutrient and calorie demands of EPM. That combination makes thoughtful nutrition especially important in supporting weight gain and overall health.When feeding an older horse that needs to gain weight, start by considering how well he chews and digests forage. Senior horses often struggle with dental wear or reduced digestive efficiency, which can limit how much nutrition they absorb from their feed. In horses with PPID and EPM, these age-related changes add another layer of challenge, making every calorie count.Choose a High-Quality Forage for Your HorseFeeding low-quality forage, can make weight gain difficult, especially considering hay makes up the bulk of most equine diets.So, if your horse can still chew long-stem forage comfortably, start by offering higher-quality hay; choose a less mature grass/legume mix instead of an overly mature grass hay. Have your hay tested before feeding to confirm the nonstructural carbohydrate (NSC) content measures at or below 10% for your PPID horse. Some hay suppliers provide nutritional analyses or list typical NSC levels for their hay types so you can check starch content before you buy.If youre unable to provide higher-quality hay, or if dental issues make chewing hay a challenge, consider hay cubes, chopped hay, or pellets. Many high-quality commercial fiber-based feeds can also replace or supplement the forage portion of your horses diet when needed.Choosing the Right Concentrate Feed for Your HorseAfter youve addressed forage quality, select a concentrate feed that meets your horses specific needs. A low-NSC, high-fat senior feed often works well for PPID horses that have trouble with weight gain. Manufacturers have formulated these feeds to be easily digestible, and their higher fat content boosts calorie density without adding excess starch and sugar. Be sure to follow the feeding directions on the label, because feeding below the recommended rate can lead to nutritional deficiencies.Adding Supplements to Your Horses DietWith high-quality forage and an appropriate senior feed in place, you can use supplements to fine-tune calorie intake and nutritional support for your PPID horse. Adding an omega-3rich oil can increase the meals caloric density while potentially providing anti-inflammatory benefits for a senior horse with health conditions.Horses with EPM often benefit from additional vitamin E, which also helps address inflammation. Vitamin E is an antioxidant that combats free radicalstiny particles that can cause extensive damage at the cellular level. Veterinarians see a lot of inflammation in and damage to nerves and surrounding structures in EPM horses, making antioxidants crucial.Researchers and nutritionists typically recommend 5,000 to 10,000 IU per day orallybut always discuss this with your veterinarian. Many veterinarians recommend testing to get a baseline vitamin E level on your horse before beginning vitamin E supplementation.Take-Home MessageIn many cases senior horses with PPID and EPM that struggle to gain weight simply arent consuming enough digestible fiber, often because they can no longer chew hay effectively and/or they are eating lower-quality forage. Key first steps include testing your hay and making sure youre feeding the correct amount of concentrate. From there, adding an omega-3 oil and extra vitamin E (if needed) can provide additional support. Because this is a complex case involving multiple conditions, its wise to work closely with a qualified equine nutritionist and your veterinarian. They can evaluate your horses full health and management history and help you develop a balanced, individualized feeding plan to support both weight gain and long-term wellness.

Two horses in Brazos County, Texas, have tested positive for West Nile virus (WNV). These are two independent cases and are not located on the same farm.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.

According to the attending veterinarian, five horses at a facility in Beaverhead County, Montana, have tested positive for the respiratory form of equine herpesvirus (EHV). Four of these horses are dually infected with equine influenza. In addition to the confirmed cases, 10 horses are suspected to be sick, and 75 horses have been exposed.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.EHV 101Herpesvirus is highly contagious among horses and can cause a variety of ailments in equids, including rhinopneumonitis (a respiratory disease usually found in young horses), abortion in broodmares, and EHM.In many horses, the first or only sign of EHV-1 infection is fever, which can go undetected.In addition to fever, other common signs of EHV-1 infection in young horses include cough, decreased appetite, depression, and a nasal discharge. Pregnant mares typically show no signs of infection before they abort, and abortions usually occur late in gestation (around eight months) but can be earlier. Abortions can occur anywhere from two weeks to several months following infection with EHV-1.Horses with EHM usually have a fever at the onset of the disease and might show signs of a respiratory infection. A few days later, neurologic signs such as ataxia (incoordination), weakness or paralysis of the fore- and hind limbs, urine retention and dribbling, loss of tail tone, and recumbency (inability to rise) develop.Herpesvirus is easily spread by nose-to-nose or close contact with an infectious horse; sharing contaminated equipment including bits, buckets, and towels; or clothing, hands, or equipment of people who have recently had contact with an infectious horse.Routine biosecurity measures, including hygiene and basic cleaning and disinfection practices, should be in place at all times to help prevent disease spread.Current EHV-1 vaccines might reduce viral shedding but are not protective against the neurologic form of the disease. Implementing routine biosecurity practices is the best way to minimize viral spread, and the best method of disease control is disease prevention.About Equine InfluenzaEquine influenzais a highly contagious respiratory disease that infects horses, ponies, and other equids, such as donkeys, mules, and zebras. The virus that causes it is spread via saliva and respiratory secretions from infected horses. Horses are commonly exposed via horse-to-horse contact; aerosol transmission from coughing and sneezing; and contact with humans contaminated hands, shoes, or clothes or contaminated tack, buckets, or other equipment.Clinical signs of equine influenza infection can include a high fever (up to 106F); a dry, hacking cough; depression; weakness; anorexia; serous (watery) nasal discharge; and slightly enlarged lymph nodes. Consider monitoring your horses health at shows by taking his temperature daily, which can help you pick up on signs of infection early and take appropriate measures to reduce disease spread.Vaccinationis an important and inexpensive way to protect your horse. US Equestrian requires proof that horses have had an equine influenza vaccination within the six months prior to attending organization-sanctioned competitions or events. Your veterinarian can help you determine what other vaccines your horse might benefit from.In addition to vaccinating, following strictbiosecurity protocolscan help reduce your horses chance of infection and disease. Such measures include quarantining new equine arrivals at barns, disinfecting buckets and equipment, and preventing nose-to-nose contact between horses.

On Oct. 29, an unvaccinated Standardbred mare in Allen County, Indiana, tested positive for West Nile virus (WNV). The mare developed clinical signs on Oct. 20, including ataxia, muscle fasciculations, hindlimb weakness, and hypersensitivity to light and sound. She is currently still alive.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.

A petition urging the government to reduce the maximum permitted noise level of fireworks exceeded 100,000 signatures this afternoon (Monday 3 November). It means the petition, which was set up by Redwings less than two months ago, will be considered for debate in Parliament.The petition asks for the maximum noise level for consumer fireworks to be reduced from 120 to 90 decibels and it is available to sign here.It doesnt stop here. Please do keep signing and sharing as widely as you can so that we can show the Government how widespread support is for making fireworks quieter and safer, said a statement from Redwings today.A huge thank you to everyone who has helped us reach this goal. Lets keep fighting for change together and help make a difference not just for horses, but pets, livestock, wildlife and many people too.Celebrity supportLast week, Your Horse reported that the petition had received the backing of Sir Stephen Fry, as well as other celebrities and top riders.Ive long admired the work of Redwings, and its become something of a tradition for me to support the work of this wonderful charity, said Sir Stephen. I was delighted to offer my voice to their campaign asking for a reduction in the maximum volume of consumerfireworksby signing their petition and I would really encourage everyone to get behind this.Redwings are asking supporters to send the petition link to their local MP and ask them to attend the Fireworks Impact Coalition drop-in event for MPs in Westminster on Wednesday 12 November.Balance is desperately neededThe charity has lost three of its own rescued equine residents in the past as a result of fireworks displays. Despite efforts to keep them safe,Redwings Cinders,Sprite and Percy died in incidents relating tofireworksbeing let off near the sanctuary.We fully appreciate that many people enjoyfireworks, but more balanced regulation is desperately needed, said Helen Whitelegg,Redwings Campaigns and Policy Manager.Research, including our own survey of over 5,000 UK horse owners, supports our belief that reducing the permitted noise levels forfireworkscould help to achieve that balance.View and sign the petition hereMain image ShutterstockRelated contentHorses and fireworks: how to survive the season aheadFireworks petition launched with Bonfire Night fast approachingSomething needs to change: Fireworks report finds horses lack protectionRedwings releases footage of horses distressed by fireworks to highlight issueThe post Fireworks petition to be considered for debate in Parliament after exceeding 100,000 signatures 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 worksI live in the Peak District, an area known for its wind- and rain-swept moors, so decent waterproof gear is a must, when riding and caring for horses. However, 2025 bucked the trend and the summer when I was testing the new Two Bare Feet horse riding robe proved to be exceptionally dry and warm! But now that autumn is upon us, I have had plenty of cold, wet days to put this long riding coat through its paces.So far, the Two Bare Feet hi-vis waterproof lightweight riding robe has proved itself more than up to the challenge.I have two horses. Seamus is a 15.1hh Connemara with whom I have had some fabulous fun over the years from trail-hunting with my local pack and fun rides to adult pony camps at Somerford Park.However, at 20 years old hes slowing down into retirement and I also have my beautiful ex-racehorse Daisy, who has the temperament of a diva and is a bit of a work in progress.My first impressionsMy first impression of this coat is a real confidence boost. I am a size 14 and 5ft 5ins tall and the first coat I receive is a medium. Normally I would need a large, so I feel quite chuffed!However, the medium proves to be much too big. You could almost have fitted me and the horse inside! I exchange it for a size small, which whilst still roomy is a much better fit. This coat is available down to an XS, but I wonder if this might still be too roomy for genuinely small riders.The riding robe has evolved from Two Bare Feets changing coats for sea and wild swimming and offers a much looser fit than your average long riding coat.Its manufacturers describe it as an extra-long, oversized robe that provides ample coverage over your riding wear and even doubles as a convenient changing robe hence that roomy fit.I swerved the trend for wearing dry robes for everything from dog walking to school pick-up when they were so popular a few years ago, as I thought they were rather unflattering, and this coat is similar in that regard. But what it lacks in fitted style it makes up for in warmth and dryness.This side zip makes for a good fit whether in or out of the saddleFitWet weather mid-July is a chance to give it a first try while feeding the horses. The Sherpa fleece lining means it is very warm and cosy during the rain. I wear it with a t-shirt and shorts on underneath.Yes, I probably do look a little unusual and Seamus and Daisy look at me askance when I wear it with the hood pulled round my face but they have their fly masks on so have restricted vision too!The robe hits the sweet spot of being very dry (thanks to its Bionic-Finish Eco water-repellent technology) but remaining breathable on a warm day.This is unlike my old waterproof riding coat, which makes me feel like a boil-in-the-bag meal. The Two Bare Feet lightweight riding robe has zips under each arm pit to allow good air flow on warmer days, though I find these a little scratchy on bare arms.I find the coat rather bulky on the ground, with the front zip making it stand out from my body in an unflattering manner. My arms are a little on the short side, and the cuffs come down well below my fingertips, but there is a Velcro strap on each cuff so I can fasten them round my wrists, which makes the sleeves a bit puffy but allows me to use my hands.I think I would prefer a Velcro fastening down the front as well, as slotting in a zip from somewhere round my calves seemed quite onerous.I like the handy zip-up chest pocketWearing it in the saddleIts most important test was riding and Ive had plenty of opportunity to try it out on wet days this autumn.I dont normally get on with leg straps as they seem to be in the wrong place for me, but I find the straps on this coat, coupled with the front and side-zip, very easy to use and they keep my breeches dry in damp conditions.The hood is also big enough to fit over my riding hat so I am confident that no rain would go down my neck.I have opted to wear an additional fluorescent tabard over my coat when riding, but my riding pal says that the hi vis reflective binding stands out well in the gloom.The coat stays in position well when riding, not bunching up or slipping to one side, and I feel comfortable and able to move easily.The robe is reflective in low light, ideal for hackingA warm cover-upI also take the Two Bare Feet lightweight riding robe on holiday to the North Yorkshire coast and it is in its element as a warm cover-up after a bracing dip in the North Sea!Ive not washed it yet the blue colour being forgiving of general yard grubbiness but the manufacturers suggest using a mild, non-bio detergent and washing at 30C or below, without a fabric softener.Overall, I prefer a more tailored coat to ride in, but this robe is very warm, dry and snuggly and is ideal for doing yard chores on a cold, wet day.PriceView the full Two Bare Feet riding robe rangeThe post I think this is a brilliant robe for riding in the wet and cold or after a dip in the sea! appeared first on Your Horse.

Benefits Risks Safety Tips Cost Savings Poor Fit Purchase from Trusted Sellers Higher Quality for Less Hidden Damage Ask for Detailed Images Sustainability No Return Policies Get a Professional Evaluation Understand the Market Is Buying a Second-Hand Saddle Worth the Risk? Buying a second-hand saddle can be a wise investment for equestrians looking to save money and get a quality product. However, like all purchases, it comes with risks and benefits that should be carefully weighed. In this guide, we'll explore the advantages of buying a pre-owned saddle, the potential pitfalls, and how to ensure you get the best deal while keeping both horse and rider comfortable and safe. The Benefits of Buying a Used Saddle Cost Savings One of the most compelling reasons to purchase a second-hand saddle is cost savings. Used saddles can be priced 30-60% less than their new counterparts, depending on the brand, model, and condition. This allows horse riders to invest additional savings into other essentials such as jodhpurs, boots, or even training lessons. Higher Quality for Less Since new saddles immediately lose about 20% of their value, buying used gives you access to higher-end models without that depreciation hit. As a result, riders often find themselves able to afford a superior brand or model at the same cost they might pay for an entry-level new saddle. This can be particularly advantageous if you're seeking a saddle from renowned manufacturers known for their durability and craftsmanship. Sustainability There's a growing emphasis on sustainability. Purchasing a second-hand saddle promotes a circular economy and reduces wastea key consideration for environmentally conscious consumers. By choosing used, you're supporting reduced demand for new manufacturing and contributing to a green planet. The Risks Involved in Buying Used Saddles Poor Fit One of the most notable challenges is ensuring a proper fit for both horse and rider. A saddle that doesn't fit correctly can cause discomfort, restricted movement, or even injury to the horse. It's not enough that the saddle looks goodit needs to be suitable for your specific riding needs. Hidden Damage Used saddles may come with imperfections that aren't immediately obvious, such as broken trees, damaged panels, or worn flocking. These defects can significantly impact safety and comfort. Buyers should always inquire thoroughly and if possible, have a qualified saddle fitter inspect the saddle before purchase. No Return Policies Unlike buying new, where you may get a warranty or return option, many second-hand saddles are final sale. This means that if the saddle does not fit well or has issues you weren't aware of, returning it might be troublesome. This increases the importance of buying from reputable sources who ensure quality and honesty in their sales. Safely Navigating the Second-Hand Saddle Market Trusted Sellers To mitigate risks, always aim to purchase from reputable dealers or those who offer professional saddle fitting services. These sellers are more likely to accurately assess and report the condition of their saddles. Ask for Detailed Images Request clear, comprehensive photos from all angles, focusing on potential problem areas like panels, girth straps, and the seat. This can be particularly helpful for assessing the wear and tear remotely. Professional Evaluation Before finalizing any purchase, have a qualified saddle fitter examine the condition and fit of the saddle. They can check for internal damage like a broken tree that a less experienced eye might miss. This step can save a lot of headaches down the road. Understand the Market Research the market value of the saddle brand and model you're considering. Knowing the approximate value will ensure you're getting a fair deal, and the knowledge can empower you in negotiations. Beyond Saddles Equipping the Equestrian Explore More Equestrian Gear While a saddle is a significant purchase, your equestrian journey doesn't stop there. Just Horse Riders offers a vast collection of jodhpurs, boots, gloves, and other essential riding apparel and equipment, ensuring you're perfectly outfitted from head to toe. Supplementing Your Horse's Health Your horses health is equally paramount to your riding experience. Consider investing in everyday vitamins and supplements that can help maintain your horse's health. This is an investment that can pay dividends in longevity and vibrancy. Treats and Comforts Additionally, treat your horse with quality horse treats and gifts, or protect them from the elements with durable stable rugs and turnout rugs. Fly protection is also crucial during certain seasons; consider exploring fly protection gear. Conclusion: Making the Smart Choice Purchasing a second-hand saddle can be both financially savvy and environmentally friendly. However, ensuring that you make an informed decision by considering fit, potential damage, and seller reputation is paramount. With these tips in mind, you'll navigate the second-hand market effectively, ensuring both you and your horse enjoy a comfortable, rewarding riding experience. In summary, buying a second-hand saddle is a great choice if approached with caution and diligence, providing excellent value and satisfaction to savvy riders keen on making sustainable and economical choices.```html```

Key Points Details Initial Product Launch Uniqhorse began with a black aluminum grooming box designed for functionality and durability in 2015. Shift to Bling By 2019, Uniqhorse embraced visually appealing designs with blingy finishes like "Mystic" and various blue shades. Product Diversification From 2023, Uniqhorse expanded beyond grooming boxes to include products like rug bags and regal gold finishes. Marketing Strategy Operates an online-only, direct-to-customer model, restricting exposure typically gained through traditional advertising. Community Engagement Active ambassador program to openly share product experiences, fostering trust. Core Principles Durability and functionality remain central; products made from high-quality materials. Product Variety Offers a more extensive lineup, including varied grooming boxes and complementary stable accessories. Customer Feedback Online-focused model allows quick adaptation to real customer preferences and market demands. Commitment Commitment to practical, high-quality, and broad product solutions, reflecting broader trends and preferences. The Uniqhorse Evolution: More Than Just Vibrant Grooming Boxes In the world of equestrian equipment, Uniqhorse burst onto the scene with strikingly colorful, blingy grooming boxes. Yet, recent shifts in their product lineup have left many fans curious. In this article, we unravel the mystery of these flashy grooming boxes and explore the brand's evolution in catering to a wider range of equestrian needs. The Beginnings: Grooming Boxes Designed for Functionality Launched in 2015, Uniqhorse started with a black aluminum grooming box, crafted with both functionality and durability in mind. Known as the Curve, this box was adaptable enough for multiple stable activities [Uniqhorse Our Story]. Its creation was significantly influenced by the practical needs of equestrians in their daily routines. From Black to Bling: Origins of the Colorful Revolution Post-2016, the tide began to shift towards visually appealing designs with introductions like rose gold finishes. By 2019, Uniqhorse had embraced the trend, offering a range of blingy, captivating finishes such as "Mystic" and various blue shades [Grassroots Gazette Review]. These offerings balanced style with high functionality, a core tenet of the brand. What Sparked the Change? A Move Towards Variety and Subtlety The period from 2023 saw Uniqhorse venture beyond grooming boxes, venturing into more varied products like rug bags and regal gold finishes [Uniqhorse Homepage]. While the flashy grooming boxes aren't as prominently showcased, this broadened product range caters to myriad equestrian needs, signaling a strategic shift. Marketing Strategy: Online-Only Model Uniqhorse operates a direct-to-customer approach; everything is done online. This model allows for direct customer feedback but limits exposure typically gained through traditional advertising. As such, the shift from bling might seem more enigmatic to customers who receive information through sporadic social media updates. Community Engagement: A Layer of Transparency Uniqhorse's strategy involves an active ambassador program where product experiences are openly shared, fostering trust [Uniqhorse Ambassadors]. Despite some curiosity around product evolution, this transparency is pivotal in maintaining a robust customer relationship. Impact on Equestrians: An Outspread of Options Core Principles Unchanged: Durability & Functionality Despite the aesthetic transition, durability and functionality remain central to Uniqhorse's ethos. Their products continue to be crafted from high-quality materials that withstand the rigors of equestrian life. An Expanded Horizon: Product Variety Equestrians now enjoy a more extensive lineup, including grooming boxes in varied sizes and colors, and complementary stable accessories. Products like the Jodhpur Collection and Horse Riding Gloves collection offer additional versatility. Innovation Driven by Feedback Through their online-focused model, Uniqhorse tailors its offerings to meet real customer preferences, allowing them quick adaptation to market demands. This responsive approach highlights the importance of understanding evolving equestrian needs. Final Thoughts: Embracing the New Norm While the colorful, blingy grooming boxes might fade into the background, Uniqhorses commitment to practical, high-quality, and broad product solutions remains unwavering. Equestrians benefit from a wider array of product choices that address real-life stable needs while receiving the quality and rider-driven design they've come to expect. For enthusiasts of the classic bling appeal, its not an end but an evolution reflecting broader trends and preferences. Further Exploration For equestrians keen on enhancing their stable experience, explore the Everyday Horse Vitamins & Supplements and Stable Rugs for more enriching choices.

Accidents happen! And equestrians must be mindful of the possibility of them. Protect your body from head to toe with the latest advances in equestrian safety gear.Troxel Spirit with MipsA low profile and full-coverage design for optimal comfort. The vent placement allows for maximum airflow, and theres a FlipFold removable washable headliner. The DialFit system allows for a precise fit. The Spirit helmet with MIPS is ASTM/SEI-certified and is available in several colors and patterns.Starting at $110.99 at troxelhelmets.com.Tough 1 Western Easy Out StirrupsDont get stuck in a bad situation! When pressure is applied to the outside of this stirrup, like in a fall, the side of this stirrup will open up and give your foot room to release. This safety feature helps to prevent getting tangled in the stirrups and sustaining further injury. Available in adult and youth sizes.Available for $151.88 ontough1.com.Charles Owen Kylo EQx This is the first dial-fit helmet in the U.S. that has all three international safety certifications. Lightweight with extensive ventilation, it features a sweat-wicking, machine washable headband. Available in both navy and black, there is optional MIPS protection and both standard or wide peaks. Ranging from $190 to $228 on charlesowen.com.Horse PilotTwistAir Airbag VestMade in France and approved to the new NF S72-800:2022 standard (the first and only standard developed for equestrian airbags), the TwistAir Airbag vest ensures safety, comfort and discretion. Can be worn under one of Horse Pilots competition or schooling jackets.Available for $799 (compatible jackets sold separately) on horsepilot.com.Racesafe ProVent3Combining breathable, lightweight comfort with maximum protection for riders of all ages and disciplines. The Racesafe ProVent3 offers the highest standards in safety performance, certified to BETA 2018 Standard level 3. Made of over 100 individually hinged segments for rider flexibility and movement in a wide range of sizes for a custom fit.Starting at $389 on racesafe.co.Tipperary Eventer Pro VestPatented Tectonic Foam plating is a unique double-layer pattern that moves and flexes without any separation or gaps. Live Spine technology provides increased impact protection while flexing and matching movement. SEI certified to the ASTM F1937 standard, and the most comfortable option to pair with an air vest. Available for $479.99 on tipperaryequestrian.com.Acavallo Arena Alupro StirrupsThe Arena Alupro stirrups feature a patented side opening and an advanced technical composition. The stainless steel pad with horizontal holes ensures optimal grip in all conditions. The strategically placed lock-and-release mechanism prevents accidental slipping. Available in eight colors.Available for $221 on acavallo.com.This article about equestrian safety gear appeared in the November/December 2024 issue of Horse Illustratedmagazine.Click here to subscribe!The post Must-Have Equestrian Safety Gear appeared first on Horse Illustrated Magazine.

One of the smallest equines in the field was victorious in the second running of the Man V Horse race in Somerset, with 12.2hh Steve racing to a thrilling neck-and-neck finish alongside an Irish Sport Horse.The Welsh section B pony carried Lara Malcolm around 23 miles of rugged south west countryside and shared the spoils with Vicky Heal on Bounce.The distinctive endurance challenge pits runners against horses and the winners crossed the finish line in 2 hours and 22 minutes before passing the final vetting and being pronounced joint winners.The first runner to cross the line was Bart Stockman, who finished 27 minutes later.We had the best time. I knew he was fit, but didnt realise he was that fit, said Lara, who admitted that she didnt expect to win.Vicky confessed that she didnt realise how close she and her 13-year-old Irish sports horse were to crossing the finish line until they saw the final steward.The steward said, youve got about a quarter of a mile, so I thought lets get going, she said.Small but mighty! 12.2hh Steve leads the chargeHusband-and-wife teamsBart Stockman faced a tense wait at the finish line as his wife also competed on horseback.Reflecting on the challenge, he said the brutal hills were the psychological crux of the event, but he added that the race was exceptionally well organised and he enjoyed a fantastic atmosphere throughout.Bart also added that he might bring his own horse next year to join in the action.Another husband-and-wife duo were Matt and Niki Fourie-Burns, who both completed the race.Niki said that her husband found the running tough and called her horse, Jam, an absolute legend. Only two weeks earlier the horse was competing in a Badminton Grassroots regional qualifier with the riders daughter.Vicky Heal and Bounce finish joint winnersPony born on the hillsThe Quantock Hills Englands first designated area of outstanding natural beauty provided a stunning backdrop for the race, which this year attracted 123 competitors: 84 runners and 39 riders.The challenging course covered woodland, moorland and ancient droves, all set against the vivid hues of autumns changing colours.One competitor with a particularly close connection to the Quantocks was 12-year-old Quantock Phoenix, a pony born and bred on the hills, who finished third this year.He was gifted to his rider, Katie, by her grandmother. Were trying to promote the Quantock Hills and the Quantock ponies, said the riders mother. Theyre true all-rounders all shapes and sizes, and incredibly hardy and tough.The last time the race was held was in 2023, which concluded with another tie, but last time with a runner and a horse.Distance and diversityRunners were given a 15-minute head start ahead of the riders. From the 12.2hh winner through to former racehorses with pedigrees from the track, this years entrants reflected the events remarkable diversity. The line up included former Royal Ascot winner Coeur de Lion, as well as Speedo Boy, who was very successful on the Flat. Event organiser Philip King said the challenge is designed to be both fun and accessible, encouraging participation from both serious athletes and adventurous amateurs alike.Veterinary oversight at the event was led by Heidi John of Evolution Vets, who oversaw the welfare of both horses and riders throughout the endurance event, with veterinary check points held out on the course.Racing for a causeMan V Horse raises funds for The Pegasus Project, a community interest initiative run in partnership with the charity Turning Point.The project provides equine-assisted psychotherapy for children and young people recovering from psychological trauma, particularly those affected by drug or alcohol use either their own or within their families.This years race raised 5,000 through ticket sales, with Persimmon Homes making a 2,000 donation to support the running of the race and the work of The Pegasus Project.Next years Man v Horse will take place on Saturday 19 September 2026, with organisers hoping to expand the field to a maximum of 300 competitors.Images by Dells Photography/Adele KleemanThe post Mighty 12.2hh pony races to joint victory in gruelling Man V Horse race appeared first on Your Horse.