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The main function of stable bandages is to provide protection, support and warmth to a horses tendons and ligaments. They can also be used to help with horses whose legs fill up (edema), and to cover the leg after applying a wound dressing, poultice or topical application, such as a cream.However, its often said that applying a stable bandage incorrectly is worse than not applying one at all. We asked supergroom Alan Davies how to apply the perfect stable bandage. This is his guide:Step 1Place the starting edge of the bandage at the inside front of the cannon bone and unroll it around the leg, ensuring as you go that the fabric and padding underneath remains smooth, flat and wrinkle-free.Step 2Wrap the bandage around the leg once to keep the end in place.Step 3Continue to wrap the bandage down the leg in a spiral pattern, overlaying the previous wrap of bandage by half.Step 4Try to maintain consistent tension on the bandage as you wrap and keep checking that the layers underneath are smooth and flat. If you feel any bumps or wrinkles, start again, as these are a risk of pressure sores.Step 5Ideally, end the bandage at the outside front of the leg, just below the knee or hock. Leave an inch of the gamgee/padding showing above and below the bandage, and fasten the Velcro. Feel over and around the bandage for any lumps, ensuring it is smooth and flat all over.Pressure checkInsert two fingers under the padding behind the knee to make sure there isnt any pressure on the joint.Top tipsEnsure legs are clean and dry to prevent rubbing and sores developing.Apply the correct tension. The bandage should be tight enough to stay in place, but not so tight as to restrict blood flow.Wrap bandages from front to back, outside to inside (counter-clockwise on left legs, clockwise on right). This ensures tension from the bandage is applied to the front of the leg, rather than the delicate tendons at the back of the leg.Always wrap legs in pairs, such as both front legs or both hindlegs.Always use a padding, such as gamgee, underneath stable bandages. They should never be applied directly to the leg.Main image by Sally Newcomb. Your Horse LibraryRelated contentHow to poultice a hoof: Alan Davies step-by-step picture guide5 things your horses vet really wishes you wouldnt doTheir memories are etched in my heart forever: groom Alan Davies tribute to Valegro and UthopiaHow to make your horses coat gleam: supergroom Alan Davies shares his daily grooming routineThe post Alan Davies six steps to correctly applied stable bandages appeared first on Your Horse.

Producing a performance horse involves carefully selecting for specific traits. | Shelley PaulsonProducing a great performance horse involves carefully selecting for athletic traits, solid health, and good temperament. This can be a tall order, especially when success hinges on delicate balance between getting what we want and weeding out what we dont want, sometimes waiting more than a decade to get results. Historically, breeders have relied on pedigrees, conformation, performance, temperament, and their own personal experience to pair horses likely to produce exceptional foals.In roughly 4,500 years horses have transformed from wild, Przewalski-like animals into the companion and performance horses we have today. Still, its a slow, trial-and-error process, sometimes with more error than breeders would like, says Ted Kalbfleisch, PhD, professor at the University of Kentuckys Gluck Equine Research Center, in Lexington. When researchers mapped the first horse genome in 2007, the industry hoped for a more precise breeding system built on gene science. Since then, scientists have sequenced DNA from thousands of horses, uncovering genetic differences linked to coat color, performance, temperament, and dozens of heritable diseases.Samantha A. Brooks, PhD, of the University of Floridas Department of Animal Science, in Gainesville, says this progress has opened the door to a new era of breedingone driven by precision, improved success rates, and more ethical choices. With education and a blood sample sent to a qualified lab, breeders can understand the genes circulating in their programs and how to combine them in the smartest, healthiest, and most ethical ways possible.The Genes of Performance in HorsesWithin a year of mapping the genome, researchers began zeroing in on the myostatin gene (MSTN). Already studied in human athletes and racing whippets, MSTN variants influence muscle fiber development and musculature, Kalbfleisch says. Scientists found the equine MSTN and started comparing its different variants with racing performance. Over time, they determined that MSTN can work somewhat like a switch, with some variants favoring sprints and others endurance.Its not that one allele is better than the other, says Brooks. Its just that theyre giving opportunities to fine-tune.Through genome-wide association studies (GWAS), scientists searched for gene differences in top racehorses. A few candidates emerged, such as COX4I2, involved in mitochondrial respiration, and PDK4, which is thought to influence behavior. But the global picture was complex: genes might work in combination with other genes and multiple other factors, says Kalbfleisch.Meanwhile, Swedish researchers identified DMRT3, known as the gait keeper gene. Variants caused a truncated protein, altering movement patterns that allow lateral gaits in Icelandics, Saddlebreds, and other gaited horses. Scientists quickly realized that DMRT3 variants also help keep trot-racing horses from breaking into a gallop. Within a few years, theyd learned that DMRT3 variants can affect gait quality and performance at the trot and gallop across breeds as well.But more work, such as a recent study in Iceland, led to the same conclusions as for Thoroughbreds: that its complicated. DMRT3 appears to work in combination with other genes, such as STAU2 and RELN, to affect tlt, pace, trot, canter, and gallop, and RELN seems to influence how trainable young horses are. Genetic regions affecting back and croup conformation also influence gait quality, underlining the role of genes related to neuromotor pathways and skeletal structure, researchers say.Sports outside racing involve even more complex genetic layers. Show jumpers tend to excel with variants related to mentality, brain signaling, neuromuscular coordination, and muscle development. Cutting horses differ from racing Quarter Horses in genes shaping muscle growth, skeletal development, energy metabolism, cardiovascular traits, and the nervous system.Temperament genes add another layer, helping horses handle the mental challenges of training and competition. And then theres environmental factors such as nutrition, welfare, training, and management, which play a large role. Wed all love to have that crystal ball that says, This horse will be a great dressage horse, jumping horse, racehorse, or whatever, says Annette McCoy, DVM, MS, PhD, Dipl. ACVS, of the University of Illinois, in Urbana. But performance is not a straightforward, simple trait. Its a complicated topic.The Genes of Health and Disease in HorsesIn contrast, many health-related genes are far more straightforward. Global databases list hundreds of heritable traits in horses and their specific genetic variantsand the vast majority are about health. That means scientists now know exactly which genetic variants cause disorders such as fragile foal syndrome (FFS), polysaccharide storage myopathy (PSSM1/PSSM2), hereditary equine regional dermal asthenia (HERDA), degenerative suspensory ligament desmitis (DSLD), hyperkalemic periodic paralysis (HYPP), glycogen-branching enzyme deficiency (GBED), and glycogen storage disease type IV. These variants are easily testable, Brooks says.Thats especially important since some of these diseases come hand-in-hand with performance traits, she emphasizes. Connective tissue disorders like FFS and HERDA, for example, might also convey the elasticity of movement were looking for in Warmbloods and stock horses. Were putting strong selective pressure that increases the frequency of these issues, because we like the performance, Brooks says. But whenever you change the elasticity of connective tissue, it impacts other body systems as well.Researchers are also working to identify genetic contributors to musculoskeletal health, aiming to reduce catastrophic racetrack fractures. One promising candidate gene is ZNF804A. Scientists are investigating genetic ties to heart defects, as well, which could help identify horses at risk of sudden collapse.I hope the field takes more of an approach of protecting our equine athletes and trying to breed selectively for traits that are associated with a reduced risk of injury, says Lynn Pezzanite, DVM, MS, PhD, Dipl. ACVS, of Colorado State University, in Fort Collins.Still, good health in general can contribute to better performance and welfare. Performance is about how all of the systems work together, not just how one system works in isolation, McCoy says. Ultimately, breeding for a healthier horse is also going to improve performance.Take-Home MessageTodays horse breeders can blend practical experience with modern genomic tools to give future equine athletes their best start. With accessible tests and expanding genetic insight, identifying health risks early and making informed breeding decisions has become easier.Genetic testing allows breeders to select for desired traits while minimizing the risk of potentially catastrophic and lethal inherited diseases that can have heartbreaking outcomes. Our biggest gap at the moment is in application and getting the word out to owners and breeders that we have tools that can help them, and they can understand how to use them, says Brooks.With these tools in hand, breeders can make decisions that support not only exceptional performance but also healthier, happier horses, Pezzanite adds. Promoting welfare should be our highest priority, she says.The abstract Shear Stiffness of Equine Synovial Membrane in Osteoarthritis And Response to 2.5% Injectable Polyacrylamide Hydrogel Treatment was part of the International Cartilage Regeneration & Joint Preservation Society World Congress and the proceedings are not yet available.

Stamford, Conn. Synchrony (NYSE: SYF), a leading consumer financial services company, on November 18 highlighted its nearly two-decade partnership with Hagyard Equine Medical Institute, the oldest and largest private equine veterinary practice in the world, as the institute marks its 150th anniversary. Since 2008, Synchronys CareCredit has partnered with Hagyard to support its legacy of innovation and leadership in equine veterinary care, expanding access for horse owners to essential care provided by Hagyard and the broader equine veterinary community.Hagyard is dedicated to providing the highest level of care through its consistent development and adoption of advanced diagnostic and treatment modalities. This commitment is exemplified by pioneering imaging techniques like the full PET scan in partnership with Churchill Downs, offering a more efficient alternative to traditional methods for precise and timely diagnoses. Hagyard also accepts referrals from equine veterinarians nationwide, ensuring broad access to its innovative treatments for horses of all types.CareCredits commitment to expanding access to care, through finance solutions that help clients manage the costs associated with advanced veterinary services, has directly contributed to improved client retention for Hagyard. Hagyard clients utilize the CareCredit health and wellness credit card for critical procedures like colic surgery and advanced imaging services, notably MRI, supporting horse owners in pursuing comprehensive care. This enhanced accessibility and broader range of options are particularly impactful in retaining clients during the transition from field care to in-clinic services for advanced diagnostics and emergency/critical care.Hagyard is incredibly proud of its 150-year history and dedication to innovation in the equine industry, said Ken Ford, CEO, Hagyard Equine Medical Institute. Our commitment to pushing the boundaries of veterinary medicine is deeply intertwined with the support of partners like CareCredit. Their financial solutions empower horse owners to access the cutting-edge treatments we offer, ensuring the best possible outcomes for their horses.Synchronys commitment to the equine industry extends beyond financing solutions, as it actively engages in research to inform horse owners about the true costs of care, highlighted in its Equine Lifetime of Care study. This research reveals that while many horse owners believe they are financially prepared, actual lifetime costs can significantly exceed expectations, particularly for unexpected veterinary needs such as colic or orthopedic injuries, which can range up to $10,000.At Synchrony, we are deeply committed to supporting innovation in the equine veterinary space, said Boo Larsen, General Manager of Veterinary Industry, Synchrony. Our partnership with Hagyard exemplifies this dedication, helping to enable horse owners to say yes to innovative care. By providing flexible financing options, we empower veterinarians to deliver the highest quality of care and ensure horses receive the treatments they deserve.For more than 35 years, CareCredit has been a valuable financing option for all types of veterinary services, treatments, and diagnostics at locations in its network, giving animal caregivers peace of mind that they are ready to care for their animals throughout their lifetime. CareCredit is accepted at more than 27,000 veterinary practices and all public university veterinary schools in the U.S. For more information, please visit www.carecredit.com. Edited Press ReleaseThe post Synchronys CareCredit Marks Nearly 20 Years with Hagyard Equine Medical Institute appeared first on Horse Illustrated Magazine.

The Horses and Ponies Protection Association (HAPPA)has appealed for urgent help as it looks to raise vital funds to keep its door open. The Lancashire-based charity, which is based at Shores Hey Farm, is seeking to raise 100,000to enable them to continue to respond to reports of horses, ponies and donkeys in need this winter.The cost-of-living crisis in the UK is causing a change in the type of help needed from the charity. While they still receive reports of neglect and cruelty, there has been a significant increase in the number of horses being abandoned and the amount of horse owners and landowners who need help.In the last six months, HAPPA has taken in 24 abandoned and unwanted equines, the majority of which required immediate veterinary intervention and incurred associated rehabilitation costs.Soaring costsWith equine welfare costs soaring and wages, utilities and supplier costs increasing, the charitys long-term financial stability is in jeopardy. It now costs the charity 2,000 a week to care for the 45 equines in their care.Times are hard for everyone right now, and we know it is a big ask to contribute with the current financial climate, however, we must act to be able to keep the stable doors open at Shores Hey Farm, said Amanda Berry, HAPPAs head of equine operations.HAPPA have been saving equines since 1937, together we can ensure lives are saved for many more years to come. We see horses of all types, that used to feel love, being abandoned and discarded like rubbish, left behind, no micro-chip, rejected and alone, without food, shelter or care.Your donation will help us to intervene, give them food, veterinary care, safety, and a second chance at life. Horses like Marble, Bruno and Maximus have got that chance due to your support.To make a donation to HAPPAs appeal, click here.More from Your HorseRider anxiety: how to get past it and enjoy your horse againAcorn toxicity and poisoning: how to protect your horse this autumn9 critical things to get right when youre taking care of a horseDifferent types of clips for horses explained, including diagramsThe post Charity calls for urgent help due to equine abandonment crisis appeared first on Your Horse.

Key Points Details Importance of Girth Fit Ill-fitting girths can cause discomfort and potential movement restrictions for horses. Girth Extender Overview Girth extenders are used to adjust the length of a girth for better fitting on horses with changing dimensions. Benefits of Girth Extenders Cost-effective, convenient for multiple horses, and suitable for temporary body changes in horses. Long-Term Use Drawbacks Potential for pressure points; not a permanent solution. Types of Girth Extenders Standard Leather Extenders: Durable and regular use. Elasticated Extenders: Even pressure distribution. Adjustable Extenders: Customizable fit. Choosing a Girth Extender Check compatibility with saddle and girth type. Select optimal length to avoid excess bulk. Material importance: leather for comfort, synthetic for easy maintenance. Signs to Replace Extender Regular checks for wear, ensure longevity with cleaning and maintenance. Care Tips Inspect regularly for deterioration, replace as necessary for horse safety and comfort. Conclusion Girth extenders are useful for temporary adjustments, require mindful selection and maintenance. Finding the Perfect Girth Extender for Horses Understanding the intricacies of horse tack is crucial for any equestrian. Among the various pieces of equipment, the girth plays a vital role in ensuring the saddle stays secure. However, what happens when your horse's shape changes, rendering your current girth too short? Enter the girth extender, an essential accessory for maintaining comfort and security. This guide will delve into the world of girth extenders, how to choose the right one, and when to use it. Why Proper Girth Fit Matters An ill-fitting girth can cause significant discomfort to a horse, potentially leading to restricted movement or saddle slippage. To put it simply, a good fit is crucial to your horse's well-being and performance. A girth extender can be your savior when dealing with seasonal body changes, pregnancy, or unexpected weight gain in horses. Understanding Girth Extenders A girth extender is a practical piece of tack designed to lengthen a girth that no longer fits appropriately. They are particularly beneficial for owners riding multiple horses or dealing with horses undergoing temporary bodily changes. Benefits of Using Girth Extenders Consider these advantages when using a girth extender: Cost-Effective: Rather than purchasing an entirely new girth each time your horse's dimensions shift, a girth extender allows you to extend the life of your current equipment. Convenience: If you own multiple horses or frequently change mounts, a girth extender offers a versatile solution. Temporary Fix: Ideal for pregnant mares or horses in recovery after an illness. The Drawbacks of Long-Term Use Although girth extenders provide a quick fix, they aren't intended as a long-lasting remedy. Over time, the added bulk might lead to pressure points. If you're frequently relying on a girth extender, it's wise to consider investing in a longer girth. Types of Girth Extenders Not all extenders are made equal. Explore these options to find the perfect match for your needs: Standard Leather Extenders These are durable and suitable for regular use, performing well under standard riding conditions. Elasticated Extenders Equipped with elastic inserts, these extenders help evenly distribute pressure, thus minimizing the risk of discomfort. The Velociti GARA Girth Extension is a popular choice in this category. Adjustable Extenders These offer customizability with adjustable lengths, providing more control over fit. Perfect for fine-tuning. How to Choose a Girth Extender Picking the right girth extender involves a few key steps: Check Compatibility Confirm that the extender fits with your saddle and girth type, generally designed for English-style saddles. Optimal Length Select an extender that offers the necessary length without causing excess bulk. Material Considerations Durable leather adds comfort, while synthetic materials offer easier maintenance. Signs It's Time to Replace Your Girth Extender Girth extenders are great temporary solutions, but theyre not meant for permanent use. Regular checks for wear and tear are crucial. Additionally, clean them to ensure longevity. Caring for Your Girth Extender A well-maintained girth extender will provide better performance. Regularly inspect for signs of deterioration and replace as needed to avoid any jeopardization of equine comfort and safety. Final Thoughts Girth extenders are invaluable for horse owners facing transitional periods with their equines. Learning to pick a suitable extender, understanding the types available, and watching for warning signs of wear and tear are all part of effective horse tack management. For more equestrian essentials, explore our extensive collections, ranging from Jodhpurs, Boots, Gloves, to Socks and more. Venture into the world of equine comfort at Just Horse Riders.```html```

Horse Sport Ireland are seeking applications from venues who wish to host a leg of the DAFM Development Series in 2026.Venue application terms, conditions, and eligibilities for each discipline can be foundthrough the following links:DressageEventingShowjumpingTo complete the application form, please follow this link:Application FormThe closing date for receipt of applications will beat 5pm on Friday 19thDecember.Please note the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine (DAFM) Studbook Series, delivered by Horse Sport Ireland are subject to funding by the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine under National Breeding Services.The post Venue Applications Open: DAFM Development Series 2026 appeared first on .

Balance, rhythm and suppleness: these three simple concepts are the foundations of all training, especially when you leave the ground. Time spent developing them will arm you with a toolkit of skills that will make any technical lines or tricky distances a breeze when you hit the showjumping ring or cross-country course.Top competition horse producer and event rider JP Sheffield is a master at getting the best out of every horse and rider combination. He explains how to become a more successful, confident partnership, and up your control and accuracy over fences.Not sure how high to set your fences? JP says: While you can use poles on the ground when youre jump training, a small cross-pole or cavaletti is the preferred option as it will make you more disciplined on the approach. You and your horse will respect a small fence more than a pole.Exercise 1: Make every stride countOne of JPs favourite training exercises is to place two fences six strides apart and count out loud the strides as you ride between them. Sounds simple but get the basics of rhythm and control nailed here and youll be well on the way to mastering more tricky distances in no time.How to ride it:Simply place two fences (these can be cross-poles, cavalettis, poles on the ground or raised poles) six strides apart.Approach in canter, pop the first jump or pole, then count out loud with each stride as you ride to the next.Counting out loud will help you focus on your rhythm as you ride the six strides: aim to make everything as smooth and relaxed as possible.If you feel your horse is rushing or a little unbalanced on the approach, take a deep breath and calmly circle before the first element.Making the distance in seven strides, not six? Soften your hands and allow your horse forward.Its important your horse is relaxed and soft in your hands if youre going to achieve trickier lines and distances over a course think of this exercise as a test of the basics.Remember to count out loud. This really does help the rhythm of your stride pattern.It also helps you visualise the distance. Reached the half-way point by the time youve counted to three? Nice one, youre on track to make the distance.Bit behind the movement? You need to speed up!Exercise 2: Find your rhythmRhythm, rhythm, rhythm: so important in jumping that we said it three times!As JP is keen to stress, whether youre tackling your first clear round competition or rising through the affiliated ranks, nailing the basics namely rhythm (there, weve said it again), balance and suppleness is key.And the same can also be said for riding safely within the time when youre going cross-country, or shaving seconds off in a jump-off.How to ride it:Working with just one or two fences, with a bit of imagination you can really test your horses balance and rhythm in the school. After youve completed the first exercise, its time to mix things up.Try shortening up the canter and aiming for seven strides.Next, try lengthening the stride and riding the distance in five strides.Next, place a small fence on a 20m circle and aim for a nice even rhythm throughout.To up the ante further, place two small fences at a slight angle on the centre line so you can ride a three-loop serpentine, popping a jump each time you cross the centre line.JP Sheffield is an event rider, trainer and sports horse producer who is based in Leicestershire.Main image Your Horse Library.Related contentBecky Moody explains how to master the perfect 20m circleJay Halims simple showjumping warm-up routine to jump a clear roundNine course-walking tips for a clear round from Ben MaherRos Canters grid exercise to slow a keen or strong horse when youre jumpingThe post Cant see a good stride when jumping? These exercises from JP Sheffield will help appeared first on Your Horse.

Understanding the clinical signs of equine gastric discomfort can help horse owners recognize this painful problem in their animals and seek timely veterinary intervention. In this video Dr. Ben Sykes, a leading authority in equine gastric ulcer syndrome, describes the clinical signs of equine gastric discomfort.Sponsored by Kelato.Related Content:Equine Gastric UlcersYour Questions AnsweredUnderstanding Squamous Ulcers vs. Glandular Ulcers in Horses