Topic Details Gastric Ulcers in Horses Common in stabled and stressed horses due to constant stomach acid production. Risk factors include high-grain diets, limited forage, intensive training, and transport. Slippery Elm Indigenous remedy known for its mucilage content that soothes and protects the digestive tract of horses. Benefits of Slippery Elm for Horses 1. Protects stomach lining 2. Supports mucus barrier 3. Anti-inflammatory and prebiotic 4. Improves symptoms and healing in the majority of observed cases Slippery Elm for Prevention Not proven for standalone prevention but effective in a holistic diet and management regimen. Holistic Ulcer Prevention Includes balanced diet, consistent forage access, stress reduction techniques. Usage and Dosage Mix with water/feed; 1-2 tablespoons twice a day. Ensure purity and possibly combine with other herbs. Expert Insights Seen as safe for long-term use; recommended as part of a comprehensive management plan. Conclusion Slippery elm is beneficial for managing and soothing ulcers but should be integrated with veterinary guidance into a broader care strategy. Exploring Alternatives: Is Slippery Elm the New Go-To for Ulcer Prevention in Horses?As horse enthusiasts, we know that digestive health is a top priority for our equine companions. Among the common digestive issues horses face, gastric ulcers are both pervasive and painful. As we gallop through today's discussion, we're exploring the potential of slippery elm as a natural remedy for ulcer prevention in horses.Why Are Gastric Ulcers So Common in Horses?Horses, by nature, are grazing animals designed to munch on forage almost continuously. Their bodies produce stomach acid constantly, which can lead to trouble if theyre taken away from their natural feeding habits. When horses endure stress, stabling, or shifts in routine, the protective mucus in their stomachs might not hold up, leading to ulcers.Common Risk Factors for Ulcers High-grain diets Limited access to forage Intensive training or frequent competing Transportation or environmental changesWhile traditional treatments like omeprazole are effective, they can be pricey and sometimes have side effects. No wonder horse lovers are turning to natural solutions!What Is Slippery Elm?Slippery elm has long been cherished for its soothing properties by Indigenous peoples in North America. The inner bark of the slippery elm tree contains a rich amount of mucilage. When mixed with water, this mucilage forms a protective gel that coats the digestive tract, a property equally crucial for humans and horses.Benefits of Slippery Elm for Horses1. Soothes and Protects the Stomach LiningThe mucilage in slippery elm provides a slick barrier against stomach acids, maintaining comfort and encouraging ulcer healing.2. Supports Mucus Barrier FunctionA fortified mucus barrier is crucial in preventing the development of ulcers, and slippery elm helps bolster this natural defense.3. Anti-inflammatory and Prebiotic EffectsSlippery elms ability to decrease inflammation and nurture good gut bacteria supports digestive health and reduces ulcer risks. By acting as a prebiotic, it fosters an environment where beneficial bacteria thrive.4. Improves Symptoms and HealingObservational studies have touted the benefits of slippery elm: in a study involving 198 horses, 85% showed improvement with slippery elm, independent of other treatments. This speaks volumes about its potential effectiveness. For more insights, visit this detailed article.Can Slippery Elm Prevent Ulcers?While the healing powers of slippery elm are well-documented, its preventative abilities are less proven. Evidence is modest regarding its preventive role, but it shines when used alongside a holistic ulcer prevention strategy that includes good diet and management practices.Holistic Approaches to Prevent Ulcers Balanced diet with limited grains Consistent access to high-quality forage Stress reduction through environmental enrichmentMaking slippery elm a part of this strategy can enhance overall digestive health.How to Use Slippery Elm for HorsesTypically coming in powder form, slippery elm is mixed with water or feed. The suggested dosage is about 12 tablespoons twice a day, turned into a paste or added to feeds as per veterinary guidance.Best Practices for Use Ensure the slippery elm is light-colored (indicating purity) Consider pairing with other supportive herbs like aloe vera Maintain small, frequent meals along with ample forageDive deeper into dietary management tips from this comprehensive guide.Insights from the ExpertsEquine nutritionists and holistic veterinarians often recommend slippery elm for its multifaceted benefits. Known for being safe over extended periods, it's a favored choice for supporting longer-term digestive wellness in horses.However, its critical to underscore that no supplement can substitute for attentive management practices. The key remains in a well-rounded approach that ensures stress-free environments and sufficient forage.To explore our horse care essentials, don't miss our collection of riding gloves perfect for maintaining comfort during those long rides.ConclusionSlippery elm stands out as a notable player in the effort to manage and soothe gastric ulcers in horses. Its properties help mitigate irritation and foster digestive healing. Although it may not be a standalone solution for prevention, it can be a strong ally in any horse's dietary and management plan. If you're considering introducing slippery elm to your horse's routine, consult with your veterinarian to tailor it to your horses specific needs.For riders interested in high-quality products for themselves as well, explore the Jodhpur Collection available at Just Horse Riders.Further ReadingDive into more expert insights by checking out these curated resources on natural ulcer treatments for horses.```html```

Wilmington, Ohio This weeks Wilmington Standlee Sunday Spotlight shines on Gwen Goodwin, a dedicated working amateur from New Hampshire who balances a full-time teaching career, family life, and her passion for the sport. Goodwin has developed both of her mounts, Gangster H and Pythagoras, from a young age and continues to produce them at WEC Wilmington. She shared more about her backgroundSource

Ocala, Fl The Fifth Annual Ocala Food & Wine Festival returned to World Equestrian Center Ocala (WEC) for a weekend of extraordinary flavors, culinary talent, and refined hospitality. The three-day culinary celebration welcomed guests to experience the artistry of food and beverage in an unforgettable setting in support of the Public Education Foundation of Marion Countys ProStart Program.Source

A young pony abandoned and left to fend for himself for months has transformed following his rescue.The yearling colt was found in a flood run-off zone by the side of a road and was reportedly being chased by youths at night, with rocks and bottles thrown at him.Since being taken in by World Horse Welfare and receiving care at Glenda Spooner Farm Rescue and Rehoming Centre in Somerset, he has come on leaps and bounds.Now named Toby, the skewbald youngster thriving and has finally found a home of his own.World Horse Welfare Field Officer Chris Shaw was alerted to Toby after the charity received a welfare report.One caller reported that Toby was so weak that he was no longer even reacting to objects being thrown at him, which was just heartbreaking to hear, says Chris. After visits from the various organisations hed been reported to, we were all in agreement that Toby had to be rescued.A Control of Horses Act notice was issued and once it was clear that Toby really had been abandoned, I got him taken to safety as soon as possible. The young pony was underweight and weak, so he spent a week at a holding yard to build up his strength before he was transported to our charitys Somerset rescue and rehoming centre.I saw him recently and couldnt believe how much hes changed from the poor little scrap we rescued from that awful site. Hes blossomed into a stunning young pony and his cheeky character has really come out.At Glenda Spooner Farm, groom Grace has cared for Toby since he arrived.Its always amazing to see horses and ponies transform, but Tobys story really does tug at the heartstrings, she said. How anyone could treat him like that is beyond me, but now we cant wait to see him thrive in a home of his own.If you are interested rehoming a horse, pony, donkey or mule through World Horse Welfare, click here.Images by World Horse WelfareMore from Your HorseThis is why starting a horses ridden career has nothing to do with breaking inCafeteria-style feeding and its important role in a horses diet explained *Video*Manage a spooked horse with these exercises from Richard MaxwellSimple checks to make if your horse is not losing weightThe post Dumped pony who was chased and used as target practice transformed following rescue appeared first on Your Horse.

Key Points Description Mindset Coaching in Riding Enhances mental resilience, confidence, and stress management in horseback riding. Mental Dimension Riding involves both body and mind. Key benefits include increased confidence, emotional regulation, and a sense of calm. Boosting Confidence Mindset coaching fosters assertiveness, patience, and emotional intelligence, improving emotional control and physical movement during rides. Enhancing Focus Enhances problem-solving and attentiveness, leading to better decision-making capabilities while riding. Reducing Anxiety Offers tools like breathing exercises and visualization to lower stress and nurture relaxation and positive emotions. Improving Social Engagement Encourages personal goal setting and challenges within social settings to marry personal development with social interaction. Real-Life Stories Includes stories like Ronalds journey to confidence and overcoming anxiety through mindset shifts, enhancing riding experience and resilience. Supporting Research Links interactions with horses to improved psychological traits, amplified benefits with mindset coaching. Practical Tips Incorporate clear goals, mindfulness, journaling, visualization, and community engagement into riding for enhanced focus and performance. Conclusion Mindset coaching enriches the riding experience, elevating both physical and emotional aspects, unlocking personal growth and resilience. How Mindset Coaching Can Transform Your Riding Experience: Insights and Personal Stories Horseback riding is more than just a *physical activity*; its a profound partnership that intertwines the rider's *mind and body*. Enter **mindset coaching**a strategic approach designed to boost *mental resilience and positivity*. This transformation can significantly enhance your confidence, sharpen your focus, and enable better management of stress while riding. Join us as we explore how mindset coaching can elevate your equestrian journey, supported by research insights and personal tales that highlight its compelling impact. The Mental Dimension of Horse Riding Horseback riding is symbiotic, engaging both the *rider's body and mind*. Recent research reveals that riders often experience immense *psychological benefits* such as increased confidence, better emotional regulation, and a sense of calm after interacting with horses (source). Horses keenly mirror a riders body language and emotions, creating a feedback loop that ensures the rider's *mental state directly impacts the experience*. Thus, calming one's mind becomes essential in handling a 500kg animal with *safety and finesse*, making mindset coaching invaluable in developing self-awareness, patience, and emotional intelligence, the cornerstones of effective horsemanship. Key Benefits of Mindset Coaching for Riders Boosting Confidence and Emotional Intelligence To ride effectively, one must embrace assertiveness and patience, particularly when handling a powerful animal. Through mindset coaching, riders learn techniques for staying composed under pressure, cultivating self-confidence, and building their *emotional intelligence*. Studies even indicate that engaging in equine activities enhances assertiveness, patience, confidence, and calmness under pressure (source). Developing these qualities translates into better control of emotions and smoother physical movements during rides. Enhancing Focus and Decision-Making **Riding** demands acute *problem-solving skills* and attentiveness to the horses behavior (source). Mindset coaching sharpens concentration and enhances a rider's ability to stay present, thereby boosting decision-making capabilities in real time. For instance, knowing how to safely guide a 1,000-pound horse when it halts or becomes distracted is crucial. Mindset approaches train riders to manage anxiety, translating into sharper focus and enhanced performance. Reducing Anxiety and Stress Horse riding is renowned for its therapeutic effects, often helping reduce anxiety and depression by nurturing *relaxation and positive emotions*. Mindset coaching dovetails with these benefits by offering tools such as breathing exercises, visualization, and affirmations to lower cortisol levels and spike serotonin, the *feel-good hormone* (source). This mental training fortifies the calming nature of riding and fosters a healthier psychological state. Improving Social and Outdoor Engagement **Riding** is inherently social and nature-centric. The equestrian community offers a strong sense of belonging, and interacting with horses in the great outdoors significantly contributes to mental well-being (source). Through mindset coaching, riders are encouraged to set personal goals and embrace challenges within social settings, marrying personal development with social interaction. Real-Life Stories of Transformation Ronalds Journey to Confidence Ronald, an inspiring rider with complex needs, showcases the therapeutic power of pairing mindset coaching with horseback riding. Through consistent coaching and stable management tasks, Ronald honed his concentration and decision-making abilities. Even small triumphs, such as articulating destinations during rides, enormously boosted his self-esteem. His caregivers remarked on his significantly improved mood post-riding sessions, underlining how mindset coaching stimulates both riding expertise and personal growth. From Anxiety to Empowerment Another heartwarming tale is of a recreational rider who overcame post-fall anxiety through mindset coaching. By challenging negative thought patterns and practicing mindfulness techniques, she gradually rebuilt confidence. This mental shift rekindled her joy in riding and opened avenues for embracing fresh challenges, vividly demonstrating the role of mindset coaching in fostering recovery and resilience. Backing Up the Benefits with Research A study from Clemson University reported that horse interactions improved participants psychological traits such as patience, assertiveness, and calmness, qualities nurtured by mindset coaching (source). The British Horse Society noted that over 80% of riders attain significant psychological benefits like feeling cheerful and relaxedbenefits magnified with targeted mindset strategies (reference). Research supports the link between mindset coaching, cortisol reduction, serotonin boost, and horse riding's emotionally stabilizing role, noting improvements in mental health (source). Practical Tips to Integrate Mindset Coaching into Your Riding Set Clear Goals: Utilize coaching to define precise skills or emotional goals for each session, fostering focus and motivation. Practice Mindfulness: Integrate breathing exercises and awareness into your ride to ease tension and enhance concentration. Reflect on Challenges: Use journaling or coaching to process fears, frustrations, and victories, strengthening your positive mindset. Visualize Success: Mentally rehearsing riding scenarios enhances performance and prepares you for unexpected challenges. Engage with the Community: Join riding groups that offer mindset training for communal support and collective learning. Conclusion Mindset coaching is a definitive tool, enriching both the physical and emotional facets of horseback riding. It fosters confidence, emotional control, and focus, fundamentally transforming the riding experience. Supported by research and real-life narratives, mindset coaching isn't just about honing riding skillsits about unlocking profound personal growth and resilience through the unique bond between rider and horse. For riders aspiring to elevate their equestrian journey, integrating mindset coaching paves the way for a deeper horse connection, greater enjoyment, and a truly rewarding riding life. For riding essentials, visit our collections like the Jodhpur Collection, Horse Riding Boot Collection, and more at Just Horse Riders.```html```

It may be nearing the end of the season but the Irish Sport Horses are still doing the business.See below the up-to-date results for this week Majestic Oaks Horse Trials (USA) 9th 10th November 2025Open Preliminary2nd Wineport Stephanie (ISH) 2017 mare by Hector Van DAbdijhoeve (BWP) out of Wineport Angel (ISH) by Lux Z (HANN). Breeder: Michael OSullivan. Rider: Kelly Prather (USA) 25.5, 0, 6.4 = 31.94th Westwick Rebel [ISH] 2014 gelding by Flex A Bill (ISH)[TIH] out of Rebels Dream (ISH) by Rich Rebel (TB). Breeder: John Brady (Wicklow). Rider: Madeline Hartsock (USA) 34.5, 0, 2.0 = 36.5.Preliminary Rider4th Crugraff (ISH) 2010 gelding by Kroongraaf (KWPN) out of Tullibards Pretty Young Thing [ISH} by Cruising (ISH)[TIH]. Breeder: John Higgins (Derry). Rider: Barbie Violi (USA) 30.5, 0, 36.5 = 66.9.Open Modified3rd Prairie Falcon (ISH) 2017 mare by Sligo Candy Boy (ISH) out of Fire Queen (ISH) by Jacomar (KWPN). Breeder: Robert James Smyth. Rider: Joe Meyer (NZL) 31.9, 0, 0.0 = 31.94th Garrybritt Rupert (ISH) 2019 gelding by Ramiro B (BWP) out of Garryritt Tinkerbell (ISH) by Ricardo Z (ZANG). Breeder: Terry White. Rider: Rebecca Brown (USA) 33.1, 0, 0.8 = 33.96th Cavalier Monte Carla (ISH) 2014 mare by Cavalier Land [ISH}out of Umhslanga (ISH) by Cruising (ISH)[TIH]. Breeder: Peter Rice. Rider: Tiffany Trotter (USA) 35.7, 0, 2.0 = 37.78th Lisdara Bravo (ISH)[was Fernhill Bravo] 2014 gelding by an unrecorded sire out of Lisdara Impish Lady (ISH)[TIH] by Master Imp (TB). Breeder: Grainne Gormley. Rider: Heather Navarrete (USA) 35.7, 0, 26.8 = 62.5.River Glen Fall Horse Trials (USA) 8th 9th November 2025Open Preliminary4th Rinnwood Big Cat (ISH) 2014 gelding by Mr Big Cat (TB) out of Rinnwood Touch (ISH) by Touchdown (ISH). Breeder: Deanna MacGuinness. Rider: Katie Ruppel (USA) 32.1, 0, 24.4 = 56.5.These results have been provided to Horse Sport Ireland by Charlie Ripman.These results are funded by Horse Sport Ireland.The post A Quiet week, but Irish Breeders still well represented. appeared first on .

Key Topic Details Stocky Cob Cross Characteristics - Sturdy, compact, broad build - Crossed with ponies or other breeds - Suitable for various experience levels 20% Rule for Weight - Rider and tack should not exceed 20% of horse's weight - E.g., a 1,000 lb cob can carry 200 lbs; 1,400 lb cob can carry 280 lbs Cob Weight Estimates - Welsh Cobs: 900 - 1,300 lbs - Gypsy Cobs: Often over 1,300 lbs - Cob Crosses: 1,000 - 1,400 lbs Importance of Weight - Prevents muscular strain, back issues, lameness - Weight distribution and rider skill are crucial Rider Height Considerations - Affects comfort and communication - Stocky cobs: 14 to 15.2 hands (5662 inches) - Taller riders: May require saddle adjustments - Shorter riders: Often feel more secure Assessing a Good Match - Weigh yourself with riding gear - Estimate horse's weight - Trial rides and professional consultations Common Misconceptions - "A stocky horse can carry anyone." - Height is less critical than weight and skill - Assess each horse individually Authority References - British Show Horse Association (BSHA) - Welsh Pony and Cob Society of America - Traditional Gypsy Cob Association Conclusion and Key Takeaways - Adhere to weight limits - Stocky cob crosses are robust but have limits - Importance of saddle fit, skill, and fitness - Seek guidance from authoritative bodies and professionals What Are the Ideal Rider Height and Weight Considerations for Backing a Stocky Cob Cross? Whether youre a new rider or an experienced equestrian, choosing the right horse is just as important as selecting the right saddleand when it comes to riding a stocky cob cross, weight and height considerations are crucial for both horse welfare and rider enjoyment. This blog explores the facts, figures, and practical advice you need to make an informed decision. A cob cross is a sturdy, compact horse with a broad build, often crossed with ponies or other breeds to combine strength, stamina, and a calm temperament. The stocky cob cross is renowned for its robust body, strong legs, and often abundant feathering, especially if the Gypsy Cob is part of its lineage. Cobs are valued for their versatility, suiting riders of varying experience levels, from children to adults. Rider Weight and Horse Size: The Science The 20% Rule A widely accepted guideline in equine welfare is that a rider and their tack should not exceed 20% of the horses body weight. While specific peer-reviewed studies on stocky cob crosses are limited, this rule offers a practical starting point for rider selection. Estimating Cob Weight Welsh Cobs: Typically weigh between 900 and 1,300 lbs. Gypsy Cobs: Known for their stockiness, they sometimes exceed 1,300 lbs. Cob crosses: Generally fall between 1,000 and 1,400 lbs. Using the 20% rule, a 1,000 lb cob cross could comfortably carry a 200 lb rider (including tack). A 1,400 lb cob could carry 280 lbs. Why Weight Matters Exceeding a horse's weight-carrying capacity can cause muscular strain, back problems, and long-term lameness. While stocky cobs have a strong build and broad backs to help distribute weight, every horse has limits. The rider's balance, position, and skill are also crucial factors in the horse's comfort. Rider Height and Comfort Does Height Matter? While rider weight is a bigger welfare concern, height affects comfort and communication. Stocky cobs are generally shorter in stature, typically ranging from 14 to 15.2 hands (5662 inches at the withers). For comparison, the average adult male is about 69 inches (59), and the average adult female is about 64 inches (54). Sizing Tips Taller riders may find their legs hang below the horses barrel, potentially making cues less precise. Adaptation through proper saddle fit and technique is advised. Shorter riders often feel more secure and balanced on cobs, especially novices. Saddle fit is cruciala well-fitted saddle enhances security and communication. How to Assess a Good Match Practical Steps Weigh Yourself: Include riding clothes and tack in total weight. Estimate Your Horses Weight: Use a weigh tape or consult your vet. Apply the 20% Rule: Ensure combined weight is within 20% of horses weight. Consider Riding Skill: Skilled riders may slightly exceed the guideline, but prioritize horse welfare. Trial Rides: Always try before committing. Observe the horses movement and recovery. Consult Your Vet or Instructor: Assess the horses overall fitness for carrying your weight. Common Misconceptions "A stocky horse can carry anyone." All horses have limits. "Rider height is the main factor." Weight and riding ability are more critical. "All cobs are the same." Always assess the individual horse. Authority References The British Show Horse Association (BSHA) and related organizations define standards for cob classes, including height divisions and recommended athleticism. Additionally, the Welsh Pony and Cob Society of America provides a guide on breed standards and suitability for different riders. The Traditional Gypsy Cob Association details characteristics and criteria for Gypsy Cobs, influential in many cob crosses. Real-World Experiences Many cob crosses are used in riding clubs, driving, and lower-level dressage. Their calm, willing temperament makes them ideal for novice and nervous riders while also being favored by experienced riders for their versatility and reliability. Anecdotal reports from breeders and riders highlight the cob crosss ability to excel, with an emphasis on awareness of individual limitations. Conclusion and Key Takeaways The key takeaways from this guide include: Weight limits are crucial: Rider and tack should not exceed 20% of the horse's weight for optimal welfare. Stocky cob crosses are strong but have limitations; assess each horse individually. Rider height affects comfort and communication, though weight is paramount. Importance of saddle fit, rider skill, and horse fitness. Consult authoritative bodies like the BSHA and breed-specific societies for advice. Seek professional guidance from vets or qualified instructors when needed. When backing a stocky cob cross, prioritizing horse well-being is paramount. By following these guidelines and drawing on expert sources, you can enjoy a safe, rewarding partnership with your cob cross, regardless of your height or weight. For more equestrian resources, you can check out the Everyday Horse Vitamins & Supplements and Horse Fly Protection collections.```html```