Warmbloods used for dressage might have a higher risk of developing EGGD. | Shelly PaulsonQ: Are there any genetic, breed, or behavior predispositions to developing gastric ulcers, or can any horse be equally at risk?A: Equine gastric ulcer syndrome (EGUS) is highly prevalent across multiple breeds and disciplines, but risk for developing EGUS might not be evenly distributed among breeds. Gastric ulcers can be caused by an interplay of genetic, breed-related, physiological, and behavioral or personality predispositions, combined with environmental and management factors. While any horse can develop gastric ulcers, certain horses consistently show as more vulnerable. However, it is difficult to separate breeds from discipline or management conditions in most situations and certainly in scientific literature.Research suggests that Thoroughbreds and Standardbreds exhibit the highest prevalence of equine squamous gastric disease (ESGD), with rates reported between 7090% in those engaged in active race training. Feed type and timing, management, and high-intensity exercise play significant roles in the development of ESGD, regardless of breed, likely influencing this reported prevalence. Warmbloods, especially those used in dressage and jumping, have higher reported rates of equine glandular gastric disease (EGGD) than horses of other breeds and disciplines in some scientific reports. However, some variability exists amongst these reports. Warmbloods involved in lower level (national versus international competition) jumping and those exercising an increased number of days were more prone to develop EGGD than others in one study.Endurance horses, most commonly Arabian horses, are another group frequently reported to have increased ulcer rates, with 6090% suffering from gastric ulceration when in competitive periods. In this group, elite horses were more likely to be affected. Feeding practices and intense exercise probably contribute to gastric ulceration in this population as well.Behavioral predisposition to EGUS is difficult to assess scientifically. However, many experts conclude that how horses cope with stress, anxiety, and environmental change impacts the animals likelihood of developing EGUS. Physiological stress results in increased gastric acid production and reduced gastric mucosal defense mechanisms. For this reason, excitable horses are often suspected of having EGUS, but this is not always the case. Rather, how the individual responds to stressors, such as daily management protocols, could be a predisposing factor more than true behavior.All horses could develop gastric ulcers when environmental and management circumstances are such that gastric acid production, stomach buffering capacity, and mucosal defense mechanisms become overwhelmed. Factors shown to be associated with EGUS development include infrequent feeding, frequent intense exercise, fasting, dehydration, and use of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). Additional risk factors include lack of direct contact with other horses, solid barriers between horses instead of rails, and talk rather than music radio in the barn.Take-Home MessageGastric ulcers can affect any horse, but horses of some breeds and disciplines face higher risks based on genetics, stress response, and daily management. High-intensity work, inconsistent forage access, stressful environments, and certain feeding or housing practices can put a horse at risk for EGUS. Focusing on consistent forage access, balanced training schedules, and low-stress management can help protect your horse from gastric ulcers. Do you have a question about equine gastric ulcers? We want to hear from you! Submit your question below. Name(Required) First Last Email(Required) Address City State / Province / Region Submit your ulcer-related question below!(Required)By clicking submit below, you consent to allow TheHorse.com and Kelato to store your information and use it to communicate with you regarding your question and other services.CAPTCHA Related Content: Equine Gastric UlcersYour Questions AnsweredVIDEO: Understanding Squamous Ulcers vs. Glandular Ulcers in Horses

A photo of the author and Happy taken a few years before his sudden death. | Courtesy Travis ChurchOn March 22 of this year, I lost my sweet chestnut Thoroughbred, Happy, to an aortic rupture while we were out on a ride at one of our favorite venues.Happy and I had a bond that spanned more than a decade, and much of my life centered around him. Horse people know this bond; the horse is your partner both in sport and in life. You can predict their next moves and they yours.Happy had my heart. I will never forget him. Also, I will never, ever forget, or be able to forget, how he left.This summer one of my equine veterinarian friends, who is also a horse owner, encouraged me to write about my experience to help other people dealing with their own horses sudden death, be it from aortic rupture, aneurysm, or another cause. She said it might help them better navigate the unthinkable and inevitably traumatic experience and aftermath.Nearly nine months later, I realize I know seven people who have experienced this terrible situation, whether before, during, or after a ride. This makes me recognize that while witnessing your horses sudden death is a statistical unlikelihood, its a possibility we all face. While its difficult to share my own experience, Im committed to doing soso that we can all be better informed and prepared to face the sudden death of a horse and the steps that follow. Here are some things I learned:In most cases, aortic rupture in horses cannot be predicted or prevented. The aorta is the main artery that delivers blood from the hearts left ventricle (the main pumping chamber) to all arteries besides the pulmonary artery. Sometimes a spontaneous tear or break happens in the aortic wall. As Happys final pathology report read, Horses with this type of acute rupture rarely exhibit any signs of disease or discomfort prior to the fatal incident. This was something I couldnt have known was coming. Happy gave no indication that day or in the days prior that he was feeling off or that anything was awry. In fact, as my sweet, enthusiastic boy started veering off the trail, and I felt as if we were going to fall, I asked him, Where are you going, dude? It was sort of a suspended animation experienceone moment he was there, fully, and time was going at its normal speed, and the next he was leaving his body.It can happen to a healthy, fit horse of any age or breed thats receiving the best-quality care. Happy lived a very good life, with excellent care and a team who kept tabs on all aspects of his healththree different veterinarians for various aspects of his preventive care, a bodyworker, and a dear friend with a laser and a Theraplate. He ate high-quality forage and feed and spent 17-plus hours a day on turnout. He had his annual soundness exam a week prior to his death, and our veterinarian said he looked wonderful at age 19.I called her just a couple of hours after Happy died, in an awful daze, wondering if there was anything I could have done that couldve prevented what had happenedor, worse, inadvertently caused itand she assured me that chances are, it was a cardiac event and there was nothing I couldve done. Had it not happened at the venue where we were riding, it wouldve occurred during turnout, on a ride back at the farm, or in the stall.Sudden death in horses can happen at any gait. I couldnt recall what gait we were riding at until I looked back at our Equilab app recording later. I was fortunate we had just finished a short canter, then trot. We had been walking for a few minutes before Happy drifted off the trail to the right and fell under some low branches. If we had been going any faster, I might not be here today. Ive heard of horses that have reared before this happened, whether under saddle, in hand, or out in the field. Ive heard of others that had a cardiac event while jumping, in the dressage arena, or even just as their owner stepped off their horse after a nice ride, all incidents that had no preamble, no warning.Aortic rupture might look like any number of things. After we fell, Happy appeared as if he was having a seizure. There was a veterinariana small animal vet and an experienced horsewomanriding with us, and she rushed over and told me this. (Immediately I thought, A seizure disorder? I can manage a seizure disorder. He can just retire from work.) Then she followed up, telling me he appeared to be taking his final breaths. For some horses this process can last seconds. Others, minutes. It was probably 90 seconds for Happy, though it felt much longer. My veterinarian friend told me that these events often result in a very rapid loss of consciousness on the part of the horse, and the convulsions are the physiologic response of the body to a lack of blood circulating. Its a muscle reaction, NOT a conscious reaction by the horse, she explained.Always prioritize human safety and life. I know its hard to read this. If your horse has fallen on you and youre injured, you need to be freed and seen by emergency services as soon as possible. Even if it feels like your world has just ended with this tremendous loss, you must continue living and give yourself the best chance. You can sort out the details, or ask someone to help you with them, later. This is yet another good reason to never ride alone, to share your location with a friend if you are riding by yourself (with directions on what to do if you dont ping them back), and to carry a phone or wear a smartwatch (cellular enabled, with fall detection).In our circumstance Happy fell on his left side in soft soil. I was trapped for about 30 seconds. Thankfully, adrenaline gave me what I needed to get free. My instinct was to hold and comfort him, but there was still risk for my own injury. Though I did stay behind his neck/back and clear of his legs, which were contracting involuntarily, ultimately, I didnt make the safest decision by staying close to him as he died, and I recognize things could have gone very differently for me. It was truly a chaotic moment. If you find yourself in this situation, stay on the side away from the legs.Call your closest people after this happens. They can contact whoever needs to know. Chances are you dont need to be driving or making any decisions beyond where your horses body needs to go from there. An important note: Be clear with each person you talk to about whether you are injured or not; that was one thing I forgot to do, and it did create some confusion and worry among my friend group.My friends self-organized and deployed to help. Two people carpooled to where Happy and I were so one could drive my trailer back to the farm so I wouldnt have to. Another was with me when I signed the papers to send Happy for a necropsy examination to understand what had happened. He drove me home, letting me talk in circles and try to process what Id just experienced. Another was waiting in my driveway when I got home to be sure I was okay. My friends really rallied around me, and Im so grateful for that support.Youll need to organize transport of your horse to a necropsy lab if you want to find out why your beloved mount died or if you have an insurance policy that requires this exam. Ask someone to help you organize this if youre too shell-shocked to coordinate. After I called my trainer/farm managerbecause she loved Happy, and he ate and slept at her farmI called my parents, a friend who is a vet, and another friend whose husband works for the local horse hearse company. Thankfully, I had a friend with me when all this happened, so I handed my phone to her so she could coordinate; I was too shocked to do much more. If you experience trauma like this, it might feel like you are functional, but your brain is not really working properly. Allow your friends to help you.Even if your horse is not insured, I would encourage you to get a necropsy because understanding why your horse died suddenly, and what he or she was experiencing during the event, can help you process the loss and provide maybe a sliver of closure. I received Happys results within about seven business days. Knowing exactly what had happened helped me tremendously in the wake of his death. The pathologists report was very detailed and brought me some peace.Your horse likely did not feel any pain, fear, or confusion in those final moments, despite it appearing so. Ultimately, Happy had a 1.7-centimeter tear in his aorta, near the root. The pathologist reported no signs of aneurysmal dilation that might have preceded the fatal tearso again, it could not be predicted. This resulted in blood very rapidly filling the sac around his heart and stopping it very quickly. As clinical as the information was, I found it comforting to know his blood pressure likely dropped so fast that he was gone almost immediately. What followed was simply his body responding to the immediate loss of vital oxygen (again, why the body moves involuntarily). That perspective helped me after someone reminded me Happy was vocalizing as he left; I had suppressed this memory for a week before it returned. Having never witnessed equine euthanasia, I wasnt prepared for the sights and sounds of a horse dying. Remember that these are not the expressions of a suffering animal but a part of the bodys natural dying process.Dont rush the goodbye. I was able to spend some time sitting with Happys body before the venues maintenance staff and the horse hearse service came to pick him up. My friend and the other people there didnt rush me, which I appreciated. She cut some strands of Happys tail for me to keep as a memento. Someone offered to remove his bridle for me, which was very kind, but I declined their offer. It was a gut-wrenching moment, but Im glad I was the one who removed Happys bridleit was my last thank-you to him for being such a perfect boy before we parted. Importantly, my friend had me leave before the guys came to pick him up with the tractor and take him to where the hearse loaded him (he was too remote for the truck to reach). Ive had several people tell me the loading of your beloved horse is not a memory you want to have; so if youre able to skip this part, please do.Your horses companions might grieve the loss, especially if they didnt see his body. Heres a story about a recent study on this on our sister website. My trainer said Happys buddies were visibly out of sorts and grieving for a week or so. Allowing people and the horses who knew your horse the grace to grieve is very important.Get back in the saddle when youre ready. In my case, I knew I needed to get back in the tack before too much time had passed; after all, Im one of those dyed-in-the-wool get back on the horse if youve fallen kind of people. For your first ride back, be sure you ride a horse you trust, and try to ride with a friend. About a month after Happy died, I was able to ride Gaston, his best friend from the field. For the first five minutes of that ride, I felt like I was drifting off to the right and falling, even though that was not the case. I rode for another five minutes in the arena, just at the walk, and then hacked around for another 10 minutes, half of it with a friend. That was enough for the first ride. I also suggest arranging something after the ride so youre not alone after this milestone.In the almost eight months since losing Happy, Ive returned to riding regularly, but a couple of times I have experienced a moment that somehow reminds me of the incident. I must be patient with myself, breathe, and acknowledge that my body remembers, and it will be okay. I want to tell you to be gentle with yourself, too.The emotional healing from having experienced this isnt finite. Losing a beloved horse is an intensely difficult experience. Losing them in an unexpected and/or traumatic way adds a layer of complexity to the loss and grief. Yes, Ive found comfort that Happy was having a blast at one of his favorite places and died with no pain or extended convalescence. As Ive been saying since March, If youre a horse, thats the way to go. But that doesnt erase the emotional whiplash. If this has happened to you, I encourage you to talk with a licensed therapist because grief cant be fixed, but support can make it easier to carry. Working with my counselor has been crucial to my grief processing. I am not an expert on grieving (in fact, Im terrible at it), but Ive also found it helpful to read or listen to the writings of others about the loss of an equine companion. Know that grief will punch you in the gut at unexpected times, and you need to let those emotions out. However, that gut punch does lessen with time.If youve lost a horse recently to sudden death, I want to welcome you to this strange club that none of us wanted to have joined. Right now, it might feel impossible to carry on without your horse and with the memory of how he or she left. But please know the excruciating heaviness will eventually lift. I hope you find solace in the memories of your horse, grapple with the loss, and let emotions flow freely as grief surfaces. I also hope you seek a partnership with another horse in the future. Your horse would want that.

Working animal charity Brooke have revealed that they have appointed actress Annette Badland as a womens ambassador to help raise awareness on gender equality issues in working animal communities.Annette, who is best known for her roles in Ted Lasso and Midsomer Murders, will support Brookes work andcall for recognition and investment for women in the livestock sector through the UNs International Year of the Woman Farmer in 2026.Becoming Brookes new womens ambassador means a great deal to me, said Annette.Ive always admired the charitys work with working equines and the women who care for them every day.These animals are the backbone of so many communities and the women who look after them deserve real support and recognition.I hope being involved in such a vital cause and shining light on these stories will help others to support women-led initiatives and policy around the world.Challenging timesIt is estimated that there are around 400 million women in developing countries who are livestock keepers but while they care for the animals, they do not have any decision-making power or they face barriers to access animal health systems and services.Brooke is calling on policymakers to:Recognise and value unpaid care and domestic work of women in the livestock sector.Improve womens access to services such as veterinary care for their animals, economic opportunities such as loans, and training in animal husbandry.Promote and support womens access to livestock-related professions, including veterinary medicine and farriery.Promote shared decision-making responsibility over livestock management and care within the household and the family.Ban the slaughter of donkeys for their skins that disproportionately affects women and girls.Crucial opportunityThe UN has declared 2026 theInternational Year of the Woman Farmer, which is a crucial opportunity to fight for true gender equality within farming communities, said Anna Marry,Brookes global head of policy and advocacy.Women carry the bulk of the burden of heavy agricultural work and livestock care, yet this unpaid labour isnt fully recognised in the household or at the policy level. Women farmers do not have equal access to training, credit and gender responsive veterinary services.But when they do, they can transform the welfare of their animals and benefit the whole community.Women are at the heart of change fostering resilience and leadership in communities, caring for working animals and gender equality is essential for thriving communities and animal welfare.Image Brooke.Further readingHow to tell if a horse is happyHow to stop a horse bitingHow to stop a horse buckingCan you read your horses body language?How to take care of a horseThe post Actress given ambassadorial role at working animal charity appeared first on Your Horse.

Aspect Key Points Heritage Founded by Carole Herder in the 1990s to offer alternatives to traditional horseshoes, focusing on equine health. Core Strengths - Easy fit and measurements. - Combines craftsmanship with modern design. - Offers specialized options like Sport Slim Sole Hoof Boot. Pricing Range $79.95 to $134.95 for hoof boots; Dressage boots start at $794. Value Proposition - Emphasizes longevity and durability. - Customization options, with accessories enhancing value. - Specialized design for specific disciplines. User Feedback High satisfaction scores, e.g., 4.6/5 for the Cavallo ELB Boot. Investment Decision - Suitable for year-round hoof protection without regular adjustments. - Offers a cost-effective long-term investment by reducing farrier costs. Final Verdict Cavallo boots are a rewarding investment, offering unmatched durability, usability, and user satisfaction. Are Cavallo Boots Worth the Investment? When it comes to hoof protection for barefoot horses, Cavallo boots have solidified their reputation as a top-tier choice in the equestrian world. However, with prices starting at $79.95 and climbing to $134.95 per boot for hoof models, not to mention dressage boots commencing at $794, horse enthusiasts often ponder: are these boots truly worth their cost? This in-depth exploration will examine the design, performance, durability, and alternatives of Cavallo boots to provide clarity on their true value. Understanding Cavallo's Heritage and Philosophy Founded by Carole Herder in the 1990s, Cavallo's mission was crystal clear: to offer the best alternative to traditional metal horseshoes (source). This founding philosophy has inspired decades of innovative product design and unwavering commitment to horse welfare. Herder, an eloquent advocate, has penned bestselling books, reinforcing the brands dedication to equine health. It's apparent that their investment in quality is more than financial but deeply rooted in passionate advocacy for horse wellbeing. The Core Strengths of Cavallo Boots Ease of Fit and Measurement One of Cavallo's greatest strengths lies in their simple fitting process. While many hoof boots demand tedious adjustments, Cavallo boots are intuitive, offering a frustration-free experience (source). This ease is beneficial not only for the horse's comfort but also for the owner's peace of mind. Craftsmanship and Modern Design Cavallos design philosophy merges timeless craftsmanship with modern comforts. Whether its their signature dressage boots or durable hoof boots, Cavallo ensures a blend of tradition and innovation, promising an unparalleled riding experience. Specialized Options for Different Needs Recognizing that no two horses are alike, Cavallo offers specialized options like the Sport Slim Sole Hoof Boot specially designed for narrower hooves (source). This tailored approach underscores Cavallos commitment to meet diverse customer needs, ensuring every horse finds its perfect fit. Pricing Analysis: Understanding the Cost Structure Ranging from $79.95 to $134.95 for hoof boots and $794 starting for dressage boots, Cavallo prices its products in the premium segment. But such a cost should be measured against longevity and reliable performance. The question remains: "What do you receive for your investment?" The Value Proposition: What You Get for Your Money Longevity and Durability Though specifics on the lifespan may be sparse, Cavallo emphasizes a strong return on investment, "a reasonable price for lifespan and longevity" (source). Given their use of premium materials, these boots promise durability across seasons. Customization and Accessory Ecosystem From Support Gel Pads to Pastern Comfort Sleeves, Cavallos accessory range priced at $19.95 provides users the flexibility to enhance boot comfort without purchasing new boots, thus amplifying the product's value through personalized setup. Specialized Design for Specific Disciplines The array of boot models, catering to specific needs such as narrow hooves, signifies Cavallos commitment to user-specific innovation. This specialization allows buyers to avoid generic solutions and select boots matching their horse's unique requirements. Positive User Feedback High satisfaction scores, such as the Cavallo ELB Boots 4.6 out of 5-star rating (source), bolster the company's reputation for toughness and long-term performance. Making the Investment Decision When Cavallo Boots Make Sense Consider Cavallo boots if you seek year-round hoof protection without the hassle of regular adjustments, appreciate thoughtful design tailored to specific disciplines, and value an investment in a well-regarded brand with a rich heritage and continuous improvement ethos. Cost Considerations Spread across numerous seasons, the initial hefty expense of Cavallo boots dilutes to a cost-effective investment when considered as a long-term acquisition. Their potential to reduce farrier costs by prolonging hoof health further sweetens the deal. Comparing Quality and Value Cavallos user-friendly design devoid of complex adjustments becomes a practical advantage over intricate alternatives. The founders focus on education, alongside product sales, illustrates a commitment to long-term customer satisfaction and community understanding. Final Verdict For those aligned with Cavallos vision of reliable, effortless, and specialized hoof protection, the boots indeed present a rewarding investment. With decades of refinement, assurance of quality through customer feedback, and a repertoire of specialized options, Cavallo boots substantiate their premium pricing through unmatched durability, usability, and user satisfaction. A true investment that pays off by cutting down farrier visits and enhancing hoof care longevity.```html```

Bedding Type Absorbency Cushioning Dust Level Environmental Impact Ease of Use Straw Pellets High Firm yet forgiving Low Biodegradable, fast composting [See Source 1] Easy, stays fluffy longer [See Source 1] Wood Pellets Very High Moderate Low Biodegradable, superior compost [See Source 2] [See Source 3] Easy to store & muck out [See Source 3] [See Source 5] Wood Shavings Moderate Good Moderate (dusty if unprocessed) Biodegradable Common, easy to source [See Source 4] Shredded Paper High Moderate Very Low Recyclable and compostable [See Source 5] Lightweight, needs frequent cleaning [See Source 5] Wood Chips Low to Moderate Good Moderate Biodegradable Less common, bulky [See Source 6] The Best Non-Edible Alternatives to Straw Pellets for Horse Bedding: An Insightful GuideWhen it comes to providing your equine companions with a comfortable resting space, selecting the right bedding is paramount. While straw pellets are a popular choice, there are numerous non-edible alternatives that boast excellent benefits in terms of absorbency, comfort, and environment-friendliness. Let's delve deeper into some of these options.Wood Pellets: A Practical ChoiceAmong the top contenders for non-edible bedding, wood pellets stand out. Made from compressed sawdust, they are known for their high absorbency and dust control. These pellets expand when wet, forming a cushioned layer that keeps stalls dry and comfortable for horses. Another significant advantage is their environmental impact; they decompose quickly during composting, thanks to their fine texture and high surface area, promoting microbial activity [See Source 2].Wood Shavings and Sawdust: Traditional FavouritesWood shavings and sawdust have long been traditional choices for horse bedding. Wood shavings, leftover from milling processes, offer a balanced water holding capacity and provide better cushioning compared to pellets. However, careful processing is key to minimize dust, as sawdust can be irritating if not kiln-dried properly [See Source 4]. Combining shavings with wood pellets can improve absorbency while maintaining soft cushioning.Shredded Paper: The Eco-Friendly AlternativeAn emerging player in horse bedding, shredded paper offers excellent moisture control and minimal dust, making it a great choice for horses with respiratory issues. Notably, this option is sustainable due to its recyclable and compostable nature. Nevertheless, it's important to manage shredded paper bedding regularly as it can blow around and may develop mold if not cleaned frequently [See Source 5].Wood Chips: The Understated OptionAnother less conventional choice is wood chips. Though they provide superior cushioning compared to pellets, their larger size means they are not as absorbent as wood shavings or pellets. Despite their shortcomings in absorbency, wood chips are biodegradable and can be a viable choice where available [See Source 6].Reasons to Consider Alternatives to Straw PelletsWhile straw pellets themselves are environmentally friendly and balance cushioning and absorbency well [See Source 1], there are reasons horse owners might seek alternatives. Sometimes regional availability, cost, or even horses' allergies prompt the need for different bedding types. Furthermore, those focused on composting goals or reducing waste volume might find non-edible alternatives more suitable.Summary Table of Non-Edible Alternatives vs. Straw Pellets Bedding Type Absorbency Cushioning Dust Level Environmental Impact Ease of Use Straw Pellets High Firm yet forgiving Low Biodegradable, fast composting [See Source 1] Easy, stays fluffy longer [See Source 1] Wood Pellets Very High Moderate Low Biodegradable, superior compost [See Source 2] [See Source 3] Easy to store & muck out [See Source 3] [See Source 5] Wood Shavings Moderate Good Moderate (dusty if unprocessed) Biodegradable Common, easy to source [See Source 4] Shredded Paper High Moderate Very Low Recyclable and compostable [See Source 5] Lightweight, needs frequent cleaning [See Source 5] Wood Chips Low to Moderate Good Moderate Biodegradable Less common, bulky [See Source 6] Final Recommendations for Equine EnthusiastsFor equestrians seeking the most effective non-edible alternatives to straw pellets, wood pellets take the lead due to their outstanding absorbency and environmental benefits, especially in composting scenarios [See Source 2] [See Source 3]. Combining wood pellets with softening agents, like wood shavings, can enhance your horse's comfort level [See Source 6]. If respiratory concerns are a top priority, consider dust-free options like shredded paper, albeit with additional maintenance [See Source 5].Each bedding choice comes with its distinct advantages and considerations. Your final decision should align with the needs of your horses, barn conditions, budget, and environmental aspirations.For all your horse riding needs, including Jodhpurs, Riding Boots, Gloves, Socks, Horse Treats, Vitamins & Supplements, and Stable Rugs, visit Just Horse Riders for a comprehensive collection of high-quality equestrian products.Turn your barn into a sanctuary for your horse with the best bedding solutions, and equip yourself with top-notch riding apparel from Turnout Rugs to Fly Protection. Comfort and efficiency are just a stables step away.```html```

Its never an easy time when our beloved animals leave us, but itisthe right moment to remember the incredible memories they gave us. So, whenYour Horseasked me to look back on Blueberry and Uti, I knew I wanted to celebrate their magic, their quirks, and the joy they brought to the world. I was lucky enough to share a lifetimes worth of unforgettable moments with them, and Ill cherish those memories forever.Valegro the ultimate showmanBlueberry loved his audience. He always knew when a crowd was there for him, and he rose to every occasion with that generous heart of his. Ill never forget one year atYour Horse Live; Charlotte was inside the arena riding a young horse, and Blueberry and I were waiting behind the curtains. She was chatting away and the organisers were trying to hurry her up. Blueberry, deciding enough was enough, poked his head straight through the curtain. The crowd went crazy, and he absolutely loved it.He adored meeting people. You could walk him around an arena with masses of spectators lining the fence, and hed insist on greeting every single person, nudging pockets, demanding pats, refusing to leave until hed worked the room like the true superstar he was.A real lads ladThe first time I looked after him was when we travelled to the south of France for his first international grand prix. None of us realised then that we were on the brink of something extraordinary. Blueberry won two grand prixs and two specials in just two weeks. Suddenly the whole world was talking about this wonder horse from Gloucestershire.Id seen him competing briefly as a young horse, but caring for him on that trip was the start of a bond that defined a huge part of my life.Blueberry had this extraordinary ability to switch on and off. At home he was a real lads lad and you could imagine him chilling with a pint and a pack of crisps at the pub. But the moment he entered an arena, his whole body changed: Theyve come to see me, so Im going to give them a show.Then when the test was done, Charlotte would drop the reins and hed stroll out on a loose rein, admiring his fans. He was a true performer.I always say, one of my greatest achievements is that these amazing horses I was lucky enough to look after completely trusted me. Planes, trains, lorries, whatever strange automobile turned up, Blueberry would follow me on board without question. As long as he had his food and drink, hed go anywhere in the world and always travelled like a pro.Champion hay-dunkerHe was a champion hay-dunker and sometimes Id have four water buckets in his stable, because hed fill them with hay and Id worry there was no water left to drink. He loved his food and I had to watch both his and my waistline closely. Most horses come home from shows a bit lighter Blueberry and I came home having eaten our way around the world. He would eat anything put in front of him, even aeroplane food.Turn out and rolling was important to Valegro, but eating always came first eat then roll. I had to be the first person on the yard in the morning so I could feed him first: if someone else arrived before me, hed bang on the door until hed eventually open the door and let himself out.A beautiful freestyle after just one practiceWe changed his freestyle music before the World Cup Final in Lyon to How to train your dragon, but only managed to practise it once the day before we left, in the rain, with the CD blaring out the back of my car. It took two days to drive him there, and I spent the whole time panicking about how he was going to perform having hardly practiced the test. When he entered the ring, he did the most beautiful test. His piaffe at the end was so in sync with the music that I swear he waslisteningto it. I was in floods of tears and had to run from the Kiss and Cry zone because I didnt want the cameras to catch me blubbing.He loved hacking and chatting to cowsI couldnt let go of his routine for ages after he retired. I kept him trimmed, polished and looking immaculate every day just in case anyone popped down the drive to see him. He was kept ticking over and loved hacking and chatting to the cows and neighbours along the way everyone fought to ride him on the Boxing Day yard ride.Even in retirement, if Blueberry heard my voice across the yard, he knew exactly where I was. And he always let me know if he was annoyed. I was away with Nip Tuck for two weeks for the World Cup finals and when I came back, I called Blueberry, and he looked the other way, which nearly floored me. It was as though to say youve been away without me, so Im not talking to you.I used to warm him up and cool him down and I remember giving him a stretch in the arena one day. No one else was around, and as we changed the diagonal, we somehow ended up doing a row of one-time changes and it felt so incredible. I was gutted there was no one there to witness it! He was just amazing.Uthopia the gentleman stallionAlan with Uthopia during a Your Horse photoshoot. Credit: Sally NewcombUti was the most polite stallion you could ever meet. I first properly looked after him when we took him to a judges seminar at Hartpury. He hadnt been seen much, so I had to get him spruced up and plaited. He stood like a saint. Watching him go at the seminar, I remember thinking, My goodness This one is special.His first big international grand prix was in Germany, where he finished third among the German giants. People immediately started talking about his exceptional extended trot it was just out of this world.Waving his forelegs at trot upsAlthough he was amazingly behaved for a stallion, he did have the odd cheeky moment. I used to get the job of trotting him up as Carl and Charlotte were both too scared. Hed trot up the first stretch lovely and then at the end, before we turned round to trot back, hed pop up on his hind legs, wave his forelegs about dramatically, then drop back down and carry on as if nothing had happened. Even then, he never frightened me. He was always polite.The only time I ever saw him genuinely excited was at the Swarovski show in the Austrian mountains. A truck arrived carrying six Camargue mares, and when they unloaded loose and were being herded into their stables, Utis eyes nearly popped out of his head.Jumping puddlesHe was wonderful to take away, easy on the lorry and happy to hand-graze anywhere in the world. At Windsor one year, he was stabled next to the collecting ring and spent hours watching the coloured cobs and Shetland ponies having never seen them before, eyes on stalks as if to say, Dad, what on earth is THAT?He hacked beautifully, though puddles were another story; he preferred to jump them, gracefully of course, but still enough to terrify me.I rode Uti atYour Horse Liveonce or twice to warm him up for Carl. I was pretty terrified but he looked after me beautifully. He piaffed on the spot during an interview I knew Carl wasnt impressed but there wasnt much I could do then calmly walked off as if nothing had happened.After London 2012, he briefly swapped riders, going from Carl to Charlotte and back to Carl so the British team had a championship horse for the Europeans. To change riders and still perform at that level like he did is enormous, but his generosity made it possible. It said everything about his character.Post-breakfast napsUti always looked like a show horse, even after retirement. His coat was so beautiful that I hardly had to clip him, he just gleamed. Even when he was dozing (which was often as he loved a nap after breakfast), he sparkled. And his temperament was so good that we once did an entire management shoot for Your Horse with him, bandaging, poulticing, the lot, and he didnt move a muscle. He posed like a true professional. He was just amazing.Forever gratefulIts sad that theyre gone, but the truth is, these horses shaped my life, and Ill be forever indebted to them for everything they taught me and for the journey we travelled together. When I started my career, I never dreamt Id have the privilege of caring for horses who would take me all over the world and change not only my life, but the sport itself.The outpouring of love and emotion from people around the world has shown just how deeply they were admired. Their memories are etched in my heart forever.Main image of Valegro at Your Horse Live by Matthew Roberts. All images Your Horse LibraryThe post Their memories are etched in my heart forever: groom Alan Davies tribute to Valegro and Uthopia appeared first on Your Horse.

Ocala, FL World Equestrian Center Ocala (WEC) is pleased to announce the addition of a USHJA WCHR Hunter Spectacular during Week V of the 2026 Winter Spectacular Show Series, marking the first of two World Championship Hunter Riders (WCHR) weeks. This new class will replace the previously scheduled USHJA International Hunter Derby during Week V. The Hunter Spectacular will offer $75,000Source

One horse in Roberts Creek, British Columbia, has tested positive for strangles, and four horses are suspected to be positive. The horse is quarantined.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.About StranglesStranglesin horses is an infection caused byStreptococcus equisubspeciesequiand spread through direct contact with other equids or contaminated surfaces. Horses that arent showing clinical signs can harbor and spread the bacteria, and recovered horses remain contagious for at least six weeks, with the potential to cause outbreaks long-term.Infected horses can exhibit a variety of clinical signs:FeverSwollen and/or abscessed lymph nodesNasal dischargeCoughing or wheezingMuscle swellingDifficulty swallowingVeterinarians diagnose horses using polymerase chain reaction (PCR) testing with either a nasal swab, wash, or an abscess sample, and they treat most cases based on clinical signs, implementing antibiotics for severe cases. Overuse of antibiotics can prevent an infected horse from developing immunity. Most horses make a full recovery in three to four weeks.A vaccine is available but not always effective. Biosecurity measures of quarantining new horses at a facility and maintaining high standards of hygiene and disinfecting surfaces can helplower the risk of outbreakorcontain one when it occurs.

The equestrian world was saddened to hear the news of the passing of Valegro (Blueberry) and Uthopia (Uti), two of the greatest dressage horses of all time, on Monday (1 December).The two horses, who had lived together for many years both during their competitive careers and in retirement, died together at home, Carl Hester revealed in a social media post on Monday evening.Both horses appeared at Your Horse Live on several occasions. In fact, when Blueberry made his debut there he was only a young horse, before hed started to shine on the world stage, and Carl, convinced of the horses talent early on, was already calling him The Professor. Valegro later returned for meet and greets, which were always a sell-out. One of his groom Alan Davies favourite memories is Blueberry sticking his head through the curtain to say hello, while waiting for Charlotte to finish her main arena demo. It was an honourShow director Emma Bedford paid tribute to Valegro: It was always an honour to have him with us atYour Horse Live. When he came in during Charlottes demo to meet his fans you could see he absolutely loved the stage and the bond between horse and rider was clear to see.So too was the bond with his fans everyone flocked to meet him and it was always a very special occasion.Valegro was a true legend beautiful and kind, and a horse that we at Your Horse Live will remember fondly.Cover starUthopia also appeared at Your Horse Live. Alan recalls the time the horse piaffed with him on board, unintentionally, in front of Carl during an interview.Uti also figured large in theYour Horseoffice, as he was a model for several photoshoots alongside Alan, including this one about bandaging and this one about poulticing a hoof. The handsome stallion appears in many images on this website as well as in the magazine.On behalf of myself and the widerYour Horseteam, our thoughts are with Charlotte, Carl, Alan, and all Valegro and Uthopias connections and fans at this very sad time, added Emma.Your memoriesWhat did the pair mean to you? The following tributes are Your Horse Live visitors memories of Valegro at our show.My horse was stabled behind BlueberryI was so lucky to meet Blueberry at Your Horse Live in 2019. My horse was stabled behind him for the day, says Debbie Robinson. Alan and Blueberry were lovely and meeting them both was a day I will never forget.RIP Blueberry and Uti. Galloping & eating together forever. Breathing the same air as ValegroCelia Holmes remembers being at Your Horse Live and letting a little girl go in front of her so that she could see Valegro up close. She said, Im breathing the same air as Valegro. Thats how huge a star he was, recalls Celia. Young and already phenomenalJill Robson first saw Valegro in a demo at Your Horse Live.It must have been one of the first times Carl brought him to the show. Blueberry, I think, was six or seven, a few years before the 2012 Olympics, but he was already phenomenal and being called The Professor by Carl.Im sorry to have never met Uti, but he was also such a great horse. My sympathy to all their connections.It was such a surprise when Valegro came out!It was such a surprise when Charlotte brought Blueberry out at Your Horse Live and a memory Ill cherish, says Natalie Marsh.Ill never wash this rug again!Gini Blakes favourite memories are watching Charlotte and Valegro in action at the London 2012 Olympics, where they won dual gold, and meeting Blueberry at home.It was a cold day, so I took my rug, which I never washed again. Beautiful Valegro. Tears of joy at London and tears of sadness when we heard the very sad news of both horses [dying].Its so hard to make these decisions and let go of such special creatures. We are privileged to spend times and care for our horses in a very short time. A memory to cherishMarilyn Roberts also saw Valegro at Your Horse Live.Its so very sad to hear of the passing of two wonderful horses. To meet such a wonderful horse will stay with me always. Run free, Blueberry and Uti. Together forever.Changing the status of British DressageGwen Sawyers stand-out memory is Charlotte and Blueberrys freestyle test at London 2012. Therell never be another like that, she says. Carl and Uti changing the status of British Dressage and putting us up there with the best of the best in the world. There are no words strong enough to describe these dressage icons. RIP and thoughts are with Carl, Charlotte, Alan and the rest of the team.Unforgettable experienceLisa Luck burst into tears after the surprise of getting to pat Blueberry. I went to watch a demo with Charlotte Dujardin and at the end she came out on Valegro and walked straight up to where I was sitting in the front row and said, Here he is, youre free to meet him, says Lisa.I instantly got up, burst into tears and stroked him. I couldnt believe we were allowed to actually touch him. It was one of the best days of my life, getting to meet my hero. Such a soft kind horse and a total legend. Will never forget you, rest in peace you special boy.The best birthday presentRichard Williams received the best birthday present when he celebrated with a trip to Carl Hesters yard and got to meet Valegro.Im so lucky to have met Valegro with Carl at his yard. It was a special day, says Richard.Moved by the musicWatching London 2012 and the way Valegro moved in sync with his freestyle music, is Gail Bradleys treasured memory. Land of Hope and Glory. The music reached a crescendo and then he started to do an unbelievable extended trot. Tears streamed down my face and my heart soared with pride. Unbeatable, the best test ever by the great Valegro.Main image of Valegro at Your Horse Live Your Horse Library. Other images by the YHL spectators quoted.Related contentA loss that feels hard to comprehend: Carl Hester and Charlotte Dujardin pay tribute to Valegro and UthopiaTheir memories are etched in my heart forever: groom Alan Davies tribute to Valegro and UthopiaCharlotte Dujardin shares precious moment Valegro meets her newborn babyEmotional Dujardin remembers the magic of competing Valegro in LondonThe post Remembering Valegro: Your Horse Live spectators share their memories appeared first on Your Horse.

Positron emission tomography can reveal active processes other diagnostic modalities might missPositron emission tomography has given equine veterinarians a real-time view of pain that helps detect molecular changes before they can cause catastrophic damage. | Courtesy Dr. Mathieu SprietOn a warm, breezy evening at a research center just outside Sacramento, California, in July 2015, a series of nuclear flashes made equine veterinary history.For the previous three months Mathieu Spriet, DVM, MS, Dipl. ACVR, DECVDI, professor of diagnostic imaging at the University of California, Davis, had been experimenting with human brain scanners based on positron emission tomography (PET). At the time doctors mostly used this revolutionary 3D molecular imaging technique to stage cancer in people. Spriet, however, was looking for radioactive glucose uptake in an entirely different target: horses limbs.With only so-so results, though, he considered putting his project on the back burner. Thats when he stumbled across a new paper by researchers trying out another radioactive PET tracer, based on fluoride ions, to diagnose bone pain in peoples feet.And I was like, Whoa, Spriet recalls. 3D bone scans!Shifting gears to the new 18F tracer, Spriets eureka moment didnt disappoint. He scanned the feet of an endlessly and mysteriously lame senior Quarter Horse mare, Fancy Piece of Candy, from the universitys research herd. In a striking moment, a burst of glowing orange radioactivity lit up the ridge at the back of the navicular bone, revealing an active disease process that had not been visible on X ray, computed tomography (CT), magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), and even scintigraphy (bone scan).Thats where everything made sense, he says. A whole new field of opportunities just opened up for equine imaging.Spriets radioactive light-bulb moment sparked a rapidly expanding equine PET program at the universitywhat he affectionately calls PETting horses. The approach has since spread across the U.S. and into Europe, giving veterinarians a vivid, real-time view of pain that helps target treatment and detect molecular changes before they can cause catastrophic damage.Metabolic Maps: Seeing What Other Scans CantIn many ways PET represents the new generation of scintigraphy, Spriet says. While these newer tools dont replace their predecessorsboth still play important roles in diagnosticsthey offer the key advantage of swapping flat, two-dimensional images for high-resolution, cross-sectional 3D views, allowing clinicians to examine scanned areas slice by slice, in fine detail.Unlike other imaging techniques, PET and its predecessor, scintigraphy, dont reveal anatomical structures such as bones, muscles, or ligaments. Instead, they display radioactive tracers that accumulate in areas of increased metabolic activity, notes Holly Stewart, VMD, PhD, Dipl. ACVS-LA, assistant professor of Large Animal Surgery at the University of Pennsylvanias New Bolton Center (Penn Vet), in Kennett Square.When bone remodels, for example, chemically reactive materials in its scaffolding get exposed and attract ions such as those in sodium fluoride (18F-NaF) tracers. And in soft tissues, cells involved in inflammation and repair need excess energy, so they pull in lots of glucosewhich the fluorodeoxyglucose (FDG) tracer flags. Positron emission tomography scanners detect these tracers radioactive signals, transforming hot spots of bone remodeling, soft tissue inflammation, healing, and even tumor growth into detailed, visual maps. The brighter the radioactive glow, the greater the metabolic activity in that area, Stewart explains.Because PET follows metabolic activity rather than physical structures, it doesnt show the lesions in physical context, our sources say. Thats why PET works best with an overlay of MRI or CT images to create co-registered images.Because PET follows metabolic activity rather than physical structures, it works best with an overlay to create co-registered images. | Courtesy Dr. Holly StewartSharper, Quieter, Earlier: PETs Advantages in ActionImportantly, metabolic activity reflects ongoing disease processes rather than healed changes, and it usually precedes structural damage, our sources say. Plus, they add, PET offers comprehensive high-resolution, highly sensitive imaging in a remarkably quiet machine. Together this means PET can help veterinarians:Detect the earliest signs of disease or pathological stressDistinguish between painful, active disease and older, nonpainful changes such as scar tissue or chronic remodelingFind disease not visible on other imagingMonitor treatment efficacy over timeInform vets about when its safe for their patients to return to workProvide a calm, welfare-friendly imaging environment for horsesAnd since 2019, horses dont even have to undergo anesthesia for PET scanning, Spriet adds. Along with an engineering team from a private East-Coast company, he and his colleagues developed the Molecular Imaging of Limbs in Equids PET (MILE-PET)a 25-centimeter-wide ring that moves up and down standing sedated horses limbs as it scans. Designed for horses, the mobile PET system has a quick-release opening and allows vets to scan feet, fetlocks, cannon bones, knees, and hocks in minutes, he says.The scanner is on wheels, so you just open the arm of the scanner and bring the scanner to the horse, Spriet explains. Now that we can scan standing horses, everythings moving faster. Now weve got scanners in California, Pennsylvania, Kentucky, Florida, Texas, New York, Connecticut, Melbourne in Australia, and one is soon to be set up in Germany as well.More recently, Spriets been going back to his original ideausing that first radioactive tracer, FDG, to detect disease in the laminae, the tissues that suspend the coffin bone inside the hoof. Hes shared the technology with laminitis expert Andrew van Eps, PhD, MACVSc, Dipl. ACVIM, also at Penn Vet, whos now using PET to make breakthrough discoveries about the mechanical and chemical workings of laminar disease.With PET a 25-centimeter-wide ring moves up and down standing sedated horses limbs as it scans. | Courtesy Dr. Mathieu SprietAs research advances and clinicians refine techniques, they are getting clearer views of metabolic activity that reveal early stage disease and injuries in muscles, ligaments, tendons, and other soft tissues, Spriet says.Stewart uses the New Bolton scannerthe first installed outside Californiaand calls it an integral part of her process when working up musculoskeletal injuries, especially when traditional imaging yields unclear findings.This really empowers us as diagnosticians to have a better appreciation for what injuries there areand how significant they are, Stewart says.PET Imaging in RacehorsesAt Santa Anita Park, in Arcadia, California, and Golden Gate Fields, now permanently closed, clinicians have run more than 1,400 MILE-PET scans on racehorses. From a research perspective, thats led to a huge dataset revealing clear patterns in how injuries form, evolve, and resolve under real-world training conditions, Spriet says.Notably, he reports hes seen some of the brightest signals in palmar (front) and plantar (back) condyles of the cannon and long pastern bones, and in the proximal sesamoid bones, all within the fetlock. Thats critical, he says, because these structures undergo extreme force at racehorse speeds and frequently represent the sites involved in catastrophic injuries on the track.Data also show how much healing rates can vary from lesion to lesion, ranging from two to six months or more without any clear trends, says Spriet. Some horses have hot spots that tend to reactivate when they return to work.In practice this means racehorses benefit from greater scientific knowledge and receive more accurate and customized treatment, he explains. Clinicians identify at-risk horses and rest them earlyavoiding potential catastrophic injuryand scan them regularly to know when its safe to put them back into training.PET for Performance HorsesA powerful drive to stop catastrophic injuries on racetracks made Thoroughbreds the initial PET priority, Spriet says. But over the past few years the technology has expanded to other equestrian activities such as jumping, dressage, and Western disciplinesparticularly for horses with chronic, vague, or multifactorial lameness.We used to worry about fetlocks in racehorses and feet in sport horses, but it turns out that PET is finding more and more subchondral (bone that sits underneath cartilage in a joint) bone lesions in the fetlocks of sport horses, he says.Combining scans and tracers for both bone and soft tissue lesions has proven especially useful for sport horses, our sources say. In part thats because many injuries involve both tissue types, such as ligament lesions that involve the structures attachment site to bone and lesions deeper in the soft tissue.Its been a great thing for me, both for gauging the seriousness of a structural change found on X ray, for example, and for following patients over time, says Stewart. She usually invites her clients to bring horses back for a re-scan every few months to check on healing and adjust the rehabilitation program if needed.Positron emission tomography scans also help veterinarians make a priority list. So, if a horse has injuries to both soft tissue and bone, you can run a PET scan to understand which of those injuries is more clinically relevant at the time, she says. And then you can direct your therapies to be more targeted in a strategic order.While sport horse vets have used PET primarily in dressage and jumping horses, theyre seeing growing interest in the Western performance world as well, says Gabrielle Solum, DVM, MS, a resident at Colorado State University, in Fort Collins. She recently found abundant bone remodeling in the fetlocks of Western horses using CT scanning and believes PET could help identify active and problematic lesions.What PET Cant (Yet) DoFor all its clarity and clinical value, PET has a few important limitations:Veterinarians can only use it on the carpus (knee) and tarsus (hock) downfor now. The current scanner ring cannot accommodate anything beyond that size. But researchers continue working on scanners for larger body parts.With only 13 PET units available worldwide at press time, the technology remains expensivetypically $900-$2,500 per scanand often requires extensive travel.Tracers include mildly radioactive materials. That means staff need to train in radiation safetyprotecting themselves and other horses through proper handling, stall management, and bedding disposal, Stewart says. With its short half-life of only two hours, horses can safely return home within half a day, Spriet adds.Tracers can be hard to access in certain countries. Government regulations, production rates, and supply chains can make it difficult or even impossible to acquire the radioactive chemicals needed for the scans in different parts of the world. Even so, as nuclear medicine advances for both humans and animals, the products should become easier to obtain, Spriet says.Next Steps: Bright Signals AheadOur sources agree: PET holds strong promise for equine medicine.Beyond the possibilities larger mobile PET rings would offerto scan bigger areas, including the head, and possibly even parts of the neckscientists could also one day detect infection or pain with tracers, Spriet says.Meanwhile, Stewart is investigating the FDGs tracer as a tool for finding joint infections, she adds.On a larger scale, the growing database of scans offers important insight into the most common lesions, how they evolve, and how they affect horses clinically. Currently, scientists are developing standardized metrics, such as the standardized uptake value (SUV) reflecting the intensity of tracer uptake. Spriets team uses these values to track lesions over time and investigate what activity levels correspond to clinical risk.These data also help define whats clinically normal, adds Stewart. Vets often see mild uptake on the upper surface of the long pastern bone (first phalanx, or P1) that isnt necessarily a cause for concern. She says it could stem from healthy bone remodeling caused by repeated stress from galloping and jumpingstress to which a horse can adapt. We can see that activity on PET, but weve learned not to overinterpret that, she says.Take-Home MessageThe story of equine PET began 10 years ago with a scan of a Quarter Horse mares foot. The science and technology have rapidly expanded, now pinpointing precise details of active lesions deep in the limbs of racehorses and performance horses alike. The result: more tailored treatments, clearer guidance for rehab strategies and return to work, and the ability to monitor recovery on a molecular level. By catching subtle changes before they become serious, our sources say, the technology has the potential to keep equine athletes safer and sounder, and make them more durable.This article is from the Winter 2025 issue ofThe Horse: Your Guide to Equine Health Care. We at The Horse work to provide you with the latest and most reliable news and information on equine health, care, management, and welfare through our magazine and TheHorse.com. Your subscription helps The Horse continue to offer this vital resource to horse owners of all breeds, disciplines, and experience levels. To access current issues included in your subscription, please sign in to theAppleorGoogleapps ORclick herefor the desktop version.