When you think of a donkey, what first comes to mind? For some its their remarkable memory and intelligence; for others its their cautious nature and insistent bray.For most, we imagine them in abundance. Donkeys feel omnipresent, a species you might drive past in the English countryside or see pulling a cart abroad.They are humble, patient, and steadfast quiet workers that have stood beside humans for thousands of years, around the world.The truth is that, whilst there are around 60 million donkeys worldwide, these animals face a dark, existential threat which is only accelerating. A population being eclipsed by human need for profit driven by a global donkey skin trade.This is a trade slaughtering over six million donkeys each year for their skins to make ejiao, a herbal remedy used in supplements and skincare with no proven health benefits. Production is driven by consumers from China, and with demand rising, the nation is now outsourcing to new areas of the world, including Africa.Erasing a speciesWith donkeys being slaughtered in brutally unimaginable ways to meet the quota for this trade across the African continent, communities who rely on them to fetch water, earn an income and support their families are being stripped of their livelihoods and dignity.But the most chilling statistic prevails. New research conducted by working animal charity Brooke has shown that Africa is at risk of losing half its donkey population by 2040 if the trade continues at its current rate.The loss would devastate rural economies, deepen poverty and erase a species so deeply tied to our own.This year, I travelled to Kenya with Brooke to meet communities, experts and policymakers who each shared the same message: the donkey skin trade must end.Stacks of donkey skins being stored at a slaughterhouse in KenyaBludgeoned to deathDespite a continent-wide ban on the trade in 2024 thanks to influence from Brooke, illegal trade persists. The industry has moved underground within a dangerous production ring that exploits desperation to earn money and targets those challenging it.In Kenya, I met with an informant who risks their life every day to expose the illegal trade to local police. They described how donkeys are stolen from their owners or sold under duress, then beaten, bludgeoned and slaughtered often with their carcasses left behind in the bush. Slaughterhouses are scenes of the upmost cruelty, with skulls and bones scattered across the ground, a haunting reminder of neglect.Donkeys are the backbone of rural households. They plough fields, carry goods and fuel and bring water security. But as the trade ripples across Africa, families are losing their livelihoods with women and girls often forced to take their place carrying crippling loads, losing time for education and income.I was not prepared for what I sawI knew the horrors of the donkey skin trade before stepping foot in Africa, but I was not even remotely prepared for what I saw. Stepping over the skulls of donkeys who had been beaten to death, able to make out just how badly they had been beaten from markings on their bones, I was lost for words.I spoke with Veronica, a woman whose donkeys were stolen and murdered near her home in Nairobi. She viewed them as her children and was so traumatised that she didnt speak until another rescue donkey was later rehomed with her family.I also met with a womens support group led by Brooke who shared their experiences of losing donkeys to the trade. Many of their husbands had passed away, leaving them to take on all domestic work and walk miles with heavy loads for their families. Their resilience was inspiring, but their grief was unmistakable. We all shared tears together.A worker carries a dried donkey skin at a slaughterhouse in Kenya.Serious risk of spreading diseaseNot only does the skin trade fuel gender inequality and a vicious cycle of poverty (like a sickening, reverse Robin Hood scenario), it also drives an illegal market where donkey meat is mislabelled in the food chain, posing a serious risk of disease spread between people and animals.This is a terrifying public health concern for Kenyan people, who have no idea if the meat theyre consuming has been mispackaged and concealed.Whilst Africa remains the primary source of skins (both legally and illegally exported to China), the trade has spread across the globe, including South Asia and Latin America.Ejiao products can be legally purchased online via Amazon and Etsy, with UK consumers contributing to global demand. Yet there are no proven health benefits to ejiao. Scientifically, youd get the same value from chewing your nails!This means that UK policymakers, retailers and consumers have a responsibility to be aware of and reduce their role in perpetuating this trade.Bans alone are not enoughBans alone are not enough. Illegal trade continues, especially across borders and in shadow networks, with enforcement of existing bans still a challenge.Brooke is calling for a global ban by working through regional bodies and individual countries, urging consumers, policymakers, and businesses to act just as the world has done with ivory and rhino horn. We must act now to mobilise action before irreversible damage occurs to both donkey populations and vulnerable communities.So, remember, donkeys are not abundant. These are animals facing senseless violence that they cannot control. They deserve protection, compassion and justice.Watch my new documentary exposing the devastating impact of the donkey skin trade on Africa, in partnership with Brooke, here.Images BrookeThe post Dr Scott Miller on the donkey skin trade in Africa: I wasnt even remotely prepared for what I saw appeared first on Your Horse.

The Equine Disease Communication Center is monitoring an outbreak of equine herpesvirus myeloencephalopathy (EHM), the neurologic form of equine herpesvirus-1 (EHV-1), that originated at the Womens Professional Rodeo Association (WPRA) World Finals and Elite Barrel Race event in Waco, Texas, on Nov. 5-9.As of November 24, the EDCC has confirmed 29 EHV-1 cases associated with the event. The cases are located in Texas, Oklahoma, Louisiana, Colorado, New Mexico, Washington, Arizona, and South Dakota.TexasMcLennan County: Two horses have tested positive for EHM and are quarantined. One horse with EHM signs and known exposure to the outbreak has been hospitalized.Montgomery County: Two horses have tested positive for EHM. One horse is isolated, and the other horse was euthanized.Wharton County: One horse has tested positive for EHM, and nine horses have been exposed. The horses are quarantined.Bell County: One horse has tested positive for EHM. The horse arrived at a veterinary hospital on Nov. 17 and was recumbent within an hour of admission. It was euthanized after 48 hours of recumbency.Fort Bend County: One horse has tested positive for EHM, and two horses have been exposed. The horses are quarantined.Erath County: Two horses have tested positive for EHM and are quarantined.Wise County: One horse has tested positive for EHM, and one horse is suspected to be positive.Hood County: One horse has tested positive for EHM and is quarantined.OklahomaLogan County: Two horses have tested positive for EHM and are quarantined.Mayes County: One horse has tested positive for EHM and is quarantined.Oklahoma County: One horse has tested positive for EHV-1 but has not developed neurologic signs. The horse is quarantined.Love County: One horse has tested positive for EHM. The horse is from Texas and attended the WPRA event. It developed mild neurologic signs when it returned home from the event and was immediately taken to a veterinary clinic in Oklahoma.LouisianaEast Baton Rouge Parish: Three horses have tested positive for EHM and are being treated at LSU Veterinary Hospital.ColoradoLarimer County: One horse has tested positive for EHM and is quarantined.New MexicoDona Ana County: One horse has tested positive for EHM, and two horses have been exposed. The horses are quarantined.Eddy County: Two horses have tested positive for EHM, and three horses have been exposed.WashingtonSpokane County: Two horses have tested positive for EHV and have mild fevers but no other clinical signs.ArizonaMaricopa County: Three horses have tested positive for EHV-1 but do not have clinical signs. Five horses have been exposed.South DakotaHyde County: One horse has tested positive for EHM, and one horse has 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.

One horse in Madison County, Ohio, has tested positive for equine herpesvirus-1 (EHV-1). The horse is quarantined.This case is not associated with theWomens Professional Rodeo Association outbreak centered in Waco, Texas.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.

An image of two horses grazing together has beaten off all the other entries to win a competition to feature on the front cover ofthe National Equine Forums (NEF) 2026 programme.Ellie Taylor took the photo of her ex-racehorse Robbie and her friends Appaloosa mare Tilly grazing harmoniously together in a field. The pair, who is both now retired, is close friends having lived together in Devon for several years.I loved looking after Robbie and Tilly as they started retired life together they had a special bond so its lovely that this moment has made the front cover of the NEF programme, said Ellie.They are both continuing their (hopefully) happy retirements, albeit now in different herds in different counties.The winning image in full.Cover starThe image will feature on the programme cover for the 34thNational Equine Forum, which takes place on Thursday 5March 2026.The NEF organising committee chose the winning picture from a range of images which were submitted by amateur equine photographers around the world. The photos included stunning vistas from between the ears, grazing horses and ponies and windswept UK mountain and moorlands.Five of the pictures have been accepted by the British Equine Trade Association for their 2026 calendar competition.A gorgeous reflectionEllies picture is a gorgeous reflection of perfect harmony between two field companions, said NEF publicity officer Sarah Shephard.Its the first time we have featured two horses on the NEF programme. We feel that Robbie and Tilly are very deserving of this accolade, not least because they look so content together, showing the joy of companionship.Last years winner was Arthur, a 10-year-old rescue Shetland pony who was found abandoned in a field of cows in Devon. The photo of Arthur was taken by Amy Newton who volunteers at the charity Munchkins Miniature Shetland Rescue where Arthur lives.Image Ellie Taylor.Related contentWhy every horse will benefit from eating a soaked feedHow to feed straw safely to horsesGastric ulcers: why the time of day you ride and feed is so importantAll about cafeteria feeding and its huge health benefits for horses *VIDEO*The post Two equine friends chosen as #NEF26 cover stars appeared first on Your Horse.

Section Key Points Introduction Importance of choosing the right bit for a sensitive-tongued horse. Impact on horse comfort and responsiveness. Why Is the Tongue So Sensitive? The horses tongue is sensitive due to its muscular composition. Signs of sensitivity include pulling the tongue over the bit and excessive chewing. How Do Bits Affect Tongue Pressure? Different bit types apply pressure differently. Consider straight mouth bits, single-jointed bits, double-jointed bits, and bits with tongue relief. Best Bit Options for Tongue-Sensitive Horses Options include bits with tongue relief, ports, rubber/plastic-coated bits, leather mouthpieces, eggbutt or D-Ring snaffles, and hanging cheek bits. How to Choose the Right Bit for Your Horse Consider horse's mouth conformation, behavior, and ensure a proper fit. Consultation with a bitting expert is beneficial. Expert Recommendations and Real-World Experiences Preferred bits include Sprenger Novocontact and Dynamic RS; leather and plastic-coated options are popular for sensitive horses. Conclusion Understand individual horse needs, observe behaviors, ensure proper fit, and experiment with different bits to enhance horse comfort and responsiveness. Introduction Choosing the right bit for a horse with a sensitive tongue is a critical decision that can significantly impact the horse's comfort and responsiveness. Understanding how different bits affect the tongue pressure, alongside recognizing signs of discomfort, can guide riders in making informed choices. In this comprehensive guide, we will explore the best bit options for tongue-sensitive horses, backed by expert insights, scientific understanding, and practical recommendations. Why Is the Tongue So Sensitive? The horses tongue is a highly sensitive organ composed of over a dozen muscles, making it incredibly flexible and responsive to pressure. It typically bears more pressure than the bars, especially when bits don't provide adequate tongue relief or when heavy-handed riding occurs. Recognizing signs like pulling the tongue over the bit, excessive chewing, or resisting transitions can indicate sensitivity issues. How Do Bits Affect Tongue Pressure? Various bits distribute pressure differently, impacting how the horse experiences the bit. Understanding the mechanics can help riders opt for an appropriate bit. Straight Mouth Bits These bits apply even pressure across the tongue but may not provide enough relief for all sensitive horses. Single-Jointed Bits These can create a "nutcracker" effect, potentially pinching the tongue and pressing against the palate. Double-Jointed Bits Double-jointed options reduce the nutcracker effect, spreading pressure more evenly and offering some relief. Bits with Tongue Relief Specifically design to reduce tongue pressure, allowing for relaxation and comfort. Best Bit Options for Tongue-Sensitive Horses Bits with Tongue Relief Offering ample space for the tongue, these bits are suitable for horses showing signs of overreacting to pressure. Their design enhances comfort and promotes ease of communication between rider and horse. Bits with a Port Ports provide a raised space in the center of the bit, reducing direct tongue pressure and facilitating free movement. According to experts, larger ports might benefit horses with particularly sensitive tongues. Rubber or Plastic-Coated Bits These softer materials offer warmth and comfort, ideal for sensitive-mouthed horses. However, they may not suit horses with smaller mouths due to potential bulkiness. Leather Mouthpieces POPULAR for their natural softness and flexibility, leather bits conform to a horses mouth and are well-accepted by horses with a history of mouth injuries. Eggbutt or D-Ring Snaffles These bits provide stability, preventing side-to-side motion, which can be reassuring for sensitive horses and reduce the risk of pinching. Hanging Cheek (Baucher) Bits Known for removing poll pressure, these bits position higher in the mouth, offering relief to both the tongue and bars. How to Choose the Right Bit for Your Horse Finding the perfect bit is not a one-size-fits-all process. Consider your horse's mouth conformation, observe behavior, try varying bits to prevent sensitivity, and ensure a proper fit. Consistent observation and consultation with a bitting expert can also be exceptionally beneficial. Expert Recommendations and Real-World Experiences Many riders have found success with bits such as the Sprenger Novocontact and Dynamic RS, which are well-regarded for their gentle action. According to the HorseBitBank blog, leather and plastic-coated options are among the best choices for sensitive horses. Conclusion Choosing the best bit for tongue-sensitive horses involves understanding individual needs, observing behavior, and ensuring a proper fit. By selecting the right bit, riders can enhance their horses comfort and responsiveness, fostering a better partnership. Remember, patience and willingness to experiment are key in finding the optimal solution. Explore a diverse range of collections and enjoy a rewarding riding experience. ```html```