Key Point Description Importance of Girth Secure saddle, ensure comfort, and improve performance. Prevents chafing and allows movement. Fit and Size Measure from saddle billet to girth strap. Dressage girths are shorter due to billet placement. Shape Contoured girths reduce elbow pressure and enhance shoulder movement. Elasticity Elastic ends aid movement, breathing and provide equal stretch for comfort. Leather Girths Durable, conform to horse's body, require maintenance, heavier. Neoprene Girths Water-resistant, durable, good grip, but may trap heat and moisture. Mohair and Rayon Girths Breathable, quick-drying, ideal for endurance but need maintenance. Fleece- or Sheepskin-Lined Girths Provide cushioning, reduce friction, wick moisture, ideal for sensitive skin. Synthetic Leather and Foam Girths Lighter, affordable, easy to clean, breathable but less soft than leather. Memory Foam Girths Offers comfort and pressure distribution, may lack breathability. Riding Discipline and Girth Choice Dressage, jumping, endurance, and western riding require specific girth designs. Proper Fitting Tips Ensure snug fit, even pressure distribution, consider girth covers for comfort. Girth Choice Importance Affects horse respiration, comfort, and minimizes moisture buildup. Final Considerations Balance comfort, durability, and practicality for discipline and sensitivity. How to Choose the Right Girth for Your Horse: Exploring Material Options and FitChoosing the right girth for your horse is not just about aesthetics; it is crucial for the comfort, safety, and overall performance of your equine companion. The right girth ensures even distribution of pressure, prevents chafing, and allows for freedom of movement. In this guide, we will delve into how to select the appropriate girth, focusing on material options and fit, supported by expert insights and practical advice.Understanding the Role of a GirthThe girth is a strap that secures the saddle firmly in place by wrapping around the horse's barrel just behind the front legs. An ill-fitted girth can lead to discomfort, restrict breathing, and may even result in behavioral issues like resistance or gait problems. Understanding its role helps in selecting the appropriate girth.Key Factors in Choosing a GirthFit and SizePerhaps the most important factor in selecting a girth is its fit. To find the right length, measure from the saddle billet to the girth strap location. Various saddle styles dictate different lengths; for instance, a dressage girth is shorter because of billet placement [1].ShapeGirths are available in straight or contoured shapes. Contoured versions are designed to reduce pressure on the horses elbows and allow more shoulder movement, which minimizes the risk of chafing [5].ElasticityElastic ends in girths provide give when the horse moves, aiding in breathing comfortably. Triple-elastic models offer more symmetry and stretch equally, ensuring maximum comfort and stability [6].Material Options: Pros and ConsLeather GirthsLeather girths are known for their durability and classic aesthetics. Over time, they conform to the horses body, offering a secure fit. However, they require regular care to avoid drying out and may be heavier than synthetic versions [1].Neoprene GirthsNeoprene is water-resistant, durable, and easy to maintain. It offers a good grip, preventing the saddle from slipping. However, neoprene can trap heat and moisture, risking chafing and irritation for sensitive horses [7].Mohair and Rayon GirthsPopular in Western riding, mohair is breathable, quick-drying, and naturally soft. These traits make it ideal for endurance activities. Nonetheless, they need proper maintenance to prevent deterioration [2].Fleece- or Sheepskin-Lined GirthsThese girths provide excellent cushioning, reduce friction, and wick moisture away, thus beneficial for horses prone to rubs or with sensitive skin [5].Synthetic Leather and Foam GirthsSynthetic girths are often lighter and more affordable than leather versions. They are easy to clean and usually more breathable. However, they might not match the softness of real leather [3].Memory Foam GirthsMemory foam molds to the shape of the horses body, offering personalized comfort and even pressure distribution, although they may lack breathability, which could lead to instability during dynamic activities [3].Types of Girths & Specialized DesignsThe type of riding discipline influences girth choice. Dressage girths are shorter with elastic ends to fit the unique seating position while jumping girths are designed to provide shoulder freedom [5]. Endurance girths focus on breathability and weight distribution, while Western cinches, made from mohair or cotton, are wider to handle specific saddle rigs.Proper Fitting TipsEnsure the girth fits snugly, allowing horse movement and breathing. Check for even pressure distribution to avoid "hot spots," especially important for horses with unique conformation [3]. Adding girth covers can provide extra comfort.Why Girth Choice Matters: Facts and ConsiderationsImproperly fitted girths can restrict respiration and create comfort issues for your horse. Sensitive horses greatly benefit from padded or fleece-lined alternatives. Materials with excellent breathability minimize moisture buildup, reducing infection risk [6].Final ConsiderationsChoosing the right girth requires balancing comfort, durability, fit, and practicality based on riding discipline and horse sensitivity. Leather options remain popular for their balance of tradition and utility, whereas neoprene and synthetic versions provide easy maintenance and comfort-focused features.By choosing the proper material, fit, and girth type, you can ensure your horse's comfort and performance while protecting it from potential injuries and discomfort. For more horse riding essentials, check out our Jodhpur Collection, Horse Riding Boots, and Gloves collections at Just Horse Riders.```html```

The FEI Pony Measuring session will take place onThursday 22nd and Friday 23rd January, 2026in Cavan Equestrian Centre.FEI Pony Owners should note thatonlyone Irish FEI measuring session will take place in 2026and should ensure that their Ponies are presented for measuring if needed (Please see diagram below).All ponies mustbeFEI registered through Horse Sport Irelandfor 2026 in order to apply for measuring. All ponies wishing to compete in FEI competitions in 2026must also be FEI measured.FEI Registration link can be found here: FEI Passports RegistrationsCavan Equestrians registration portal is now OPENClick here to registerEntries for the FEI pony measuring in Cavan Equestrian Centre will close Friday 9th January.Please read the FEI Guidance carefully. It is important to note that any FEI Ponies who have an interim measuring certificate (aged 1-8 years old) can re-present at this session.FEI Pony Measuring Sessions PR Guidance can be found here:Pony measuring PR guidanceEnquiries:feireg@horsesportireland.ie place FEI Pony Measuring in the subject line.The post FEI Pony Measuring 2026 appeared first on .

Feature Traditional Saddles WOW Saddles Width Measurement Fixed, between tree points Modular headplate sizes and shapes, adjustable Fit Adjustment Limited post-purchase adjustability Interchangeable headplate, adjustable panels/gussets Pressure Distribution Smaller surface area, higher PSI Larger panel area with PPS, lower PSI Adaptability One saddle per horse size One saddle adapts to multiple horses & builds Measurement Units Inches/letters Numbered U/V-shaped headplate sizes & gullet widths Understanding the Complexities of Matching WOW Saddle Headplates to Traditional Saddle WidthsHorse riding is more than just a sport; it's a harmonious dance between human and horse. The right equipment can make all the difference in this dance, especially when it comes to saddles. Enter WOW Saddles a revelation in horse riding equipment that offers a dynamic, adaptable, and precise fit for every horse. But how do these innovative saddles differ from traditional ones, particularly when it comes to headplates and widths? Let's dive into the saddle world to uncover the truth!What Makes WOW Saddles Different?WOW Saddles stand out due to their modular design, which offers unparalleled adjustability. Unlike traditional saddles with fixed tree points, WOW saddles use a pointless tree system. This system relies on a lobe with an integrated stirrup bar, coupled with the Pointless Panel System (PPS). Such innovation means a larger pressure distribution area, providing more comfort to the horse and more balance to the rider. The adjustable headplates are the linchpins here available in various sizes and shapes, they're like customizable gullets that can be swapped to fine-tune the fit.Differences in Measurement Philosophy Traditional Saddles: Typically measure width by the distance between tree points, described in inches or letters like narrow, medium, or wide. WOW Saddles: Focus on the headplate's shape and size with more complex options like panel widths and gussets.The beauty of WOW Saddles lies in the complexity of their design the larger panel surface area results in lower PSI pressure, ensuring a balanced fit. Research indicates that traditional saddles exert higher pressure on a horse's back compared to the balanced fit of WOW saddles, which distribute weight over a larger area.The Headplate vs. Traditional Widths: What You Need to KnowUnderstanding saddle widths can feel like deciphering an equestrian code, especially with WOW saddles in the mix. Here's the breakdown: No Direct Conversion: A WOW headplate doesn't directly translate to traditional saddle sizes. Adjustable & Interchangeable: Changes in a horse's musculature or conditioning? WOW saddles have got you covered with their swappable components. Gullet Width and Horse Fit: WOW offers five gullet width options, tailoring the fit more accurately than traditional saddles. Horse Conformation Matters: WOW accommodates unique horse builds that might be counterintuitive in traditional systems.Practical Considerations for RidersFor those transitioning from traditional saddles to WOW saddles, the key is appreciating the headplate system's flexibility over fixed widths. WOW saddles come with a detailed fitting process involving certified fitters who guide you in selecting the right components for both rider ergonomics and horse anatomy.Riders with multiple horses or those with horses experiencing body changes due to age, training, or health find value in WOW's dynamic system over time.Summary of Key Features in Matching WOW Headplates vs. Traditional Widths Feature Traditional Saddles WOW Saddles Width Measurement Fixed, between tree points Modular headplate sizes and shapes, adjustable Fit Adjustment Limited post-purchase adjustability Interchangeable headplate, adjustable panels/gussets Pressure Distribution Smaller surface area, higher PSI Larger panel area with PPS, lower PSI Adaptability One saddle per horse size One saddle adapts to multiple horses & builds Measurement Units Inches/letters Numbered U/V-shaped headplate sizes & gullet widths Final ThoughtsWOW Saddles revolutionize the traditional concept of saddle widths with a focus on customizability, balance, and adaptability. As you straddle this new world, consider enlisting the help of certified fitters to guide you through the headplate jungle and emerge with a saddle that fits like a bespoke suit for both you and your horse.Exploring this new dimension in saddle design can not only elevate your riding experience but also enhance horse comfort and performance. For more technical insights on choosing the right WOW saddle configuration, head to the official WOW Saddles site and related resources.In conclusion, appreciating the complexities of WOW Saddles enhances your choices in riding gear and can lead to significant improvements in your horse's gait, comfort, and longevity. So take the WOW leap and embrace this saddle revolution with both reins open.

Diarrhoea in horses can be a distressing health condition for both horse and owner.A horses faeces becoming sloppy or watery is known as diarrhoea. It can be acute (lasting a couple of days) or chronic (lasting for more than a week) and there is usually an increase in the number of times the horse will go to the toilet.Often an animal with diarrhoea can suffer from weight loss, or show signs of colic, and it is important to speak to your vet so that the problem can be diagnosed and treated as quickly as possible. In November, owners were warned to be on their guard against colitis, for which diarrhoea is a symptom, after a spate of cases this winter following fluctuating temperatures and wet weather across the countryTwo types of diarrhoeaAcute diarrhoea can be caused by a change in your horses routine for example, if a new food is introduced, or a medication, such as an antibiotic or worming treatment, is given. A sudden change in diet, or an oral medication, can change the gut microflora (friendly bacteria), leading to an overgrowth of unwanted bacteria in the intestine.Some horses show signs of diarrhoea when they are travelling, which is usually the result of a stress response. More serious causes of acute diarrhoea include salmonella infection, eating toxic plants and peritonitis (inflammation of the membrane lining the abdominal cavity).Chronic diarrhoea can follow on from acute diarrhoea, or may present as periods of normal faeces interspersed with episodes of diarrhoea. Causes of chronic diarrhoea include worms, bacterial infection, inflammatory bowel disease, ulceration and intestinal cancer.CausesIn both acute and chronic diarrhoea, the initial cause results in damage to the intestinal wall, so the intestine cant absorb water in the usual way. Water remains inside the intestine, giving the faeces a watery consistency. Inflammation in the intestine can also cause an increase in the transit time the time it takes for food to get from one end of the horse to the other. When the intestinal wall becomes damaged, it cannot absorb the usual nutrients from food, so your horse may lose weight, especially if the diarrhoea persists for a longer period of time.Diarrhoea in foalsA foals immune system is not as well developed as that of an adult horse, so foals can pick up infections more easily and become sicker more quickly. At around seven days old, foal-heat diarrhoea can occur. This is usually nothing to worry about as the foal is usually bright, feeding well and not showing other signs of illness.If a foal shows signs of systemic disease, such as a high temperature, reluctance to feed, or is looking quiet or depressed, then advice from a vet should be sought immediately to prevent deterioration.Clinical signsIn cases of diarrhoea, the faeces can range from semi-solid to watery and there may be some urgency or straining to toilet. Often there will be faeces in the tail and down the legs, indicating that normal faecal balls are not being passed. Some cases can be painful, resulting in the horse showing colic signs, such as pawing at the ground, lying down more than usual, rolling, kicking at the belly, looking at the flank, or not eating.When the intestine is so damaged that it cant absorb protein from the food, a condition called protein-losing enteropathy can develop. This is seen as a swelling underneath the belly, known as oedema.Fresh blood can be seen in the faeces when there has been a large amount of damage to the intestinal wall or when the horse has been straining to pass faeces. The faeces often have a foul smell too.TreatmentAs diarrhoea often occurs as a result of a change in the diet, many horses recover very quickly without the need for treatment.Horses suffering from more severe diarrhoea will need an assessment by a vet and may need to be hospitalised in order to reverse effects such as dehydration. Initially, the main aims of treatment are to replace fluid that has been lost through the faeces and to try to make them more formed so they take longer to pass through the intestine.Treatment generally includes fluid therapy (oral or intravenous, depending on the severity of dehydration), electrolytes, probiotics and pain relief. However, if the initial cause is still present, then it will be difficult to get the diarrhoea to stop.DiagnosisA panel of diagnostic tests should be carried out to identify the reason for the diarrhoea, including some or all of the following:Blood sample to assess vital organs.Faecal sample to look for parasites and bacteria.Ultrasound examination of the abdomen to look for abnormalities in the gut and surrounding organs.Abdominal fluid sample to look for bacterial infection, inflammatory cells and cancerous cells in the abdomen.Gastroscopy to visualise the lining of the stomach wall.Intestinal biopsies to make a further assessment of a piece of the intestinal wall.Hopefully the results of these tests will identify the initial cause so that the most appropriate treatment or combination of treatments can be started.Sometimes a diagnosis may not be found through testing and surgery may need to be performed to open up the abdomen and visualise all of the intestines, known as an exploratory laparotomy. Further samples can then be taken of parts of the intestine that were not able to be reached before.Unfortunately, some causes of diarrhoea cannot be treated and euthanasia may be the only way to prevent further suffering.Prevention tipsSome cases of diarrhoea can be prevented by following these tips:Ensure that your horse doesnt have a heavy worm burden by carrying out worm egg counts every three months.When changing your horses diet, or switching to a new batch of hay, ensure that this is done gradually by mixing a small amount of the new feedstuff with the old so that the change is less sudden.Have your horses teeth checked every 6-12 months by your vet or equine dental technician to ensure that they are able to chew their food effectively.Regularly use a weightape and perform a body condition score on your horse so that you can tell if there has been any weight loss.A blood sample can be performed at the time of annual vaccination to check your horses vital organs. Any abnormalities can then be investigated before the signs of diarrhoea begin to show.If your horse needs to be on oral antibiotics for any reason, ensure that your vet knows about any previous reactions so that they can either use a different treatment or use gatro-protectants alongside the antibiotic medication.Related contentPeritonitis in horses, which can look a lot like colic, explained by a vetImpaction and gassy colic in horses explained by a vetInside a horses digestive system and how to keep it healthyGastric ulcers in horses: why the time of day you ride and feed is so important10 golden rules of feeding for a happy and healthy horseThe post Common causes of diarrhoea in horses and how to prevent it appeared first on Your Horse.

Fashion designer Stella McCartney has joined forces with equestrian brand LeMieux to launch a conscious collection thatunites the worlds of luxury fashion and technical performance wear.Available in both navy and lipstick red, the collection contains four pieces a base layer, pull-on breeches, saddle pad and fly hood.The collection has been guided by Stella McCartneys personal connection to horses and her long-standing commitment to sustainable design.Completely natural collaborationHorses have been part of my story since before I was born, and they still bring me joy every single day, saidStella McCartney.Working with LeMieux felt completely natural a way to unite my love of riding with my commitment to conscious, innovative design.This collection showcases sustainability in a modern, vegan, cruelty-free approach to equestrian wear, created with the same integrity and attention to detail I bring to every part of my brand.Sustainability at its heartEach piece of the collection is vegan and responsibly made and has been inspired by the bond between human, horse and the natural world.This collaboration represents a new chapter for LeMieux one that brings together our equestrian heritage with Stella McCartneys iconic approach to conscious design, saidDan Mahoney, ceo of LeMieux.Weve worked hand in hand to create something thats both deeply authentic to the riding community and beautifully progressive in its sustainable vision. Its a collection that honours horses, nature, and the people who ride with purpose.Base layerInspired by Stella McCartneys Miracle Dress, the base layer is shaped with flattering lines that contour the body and elevate technical wear. Crafted from moisture-wicking UV50+ recycled nylon, the piece features four-way stretch for ease of movement, breathable mesh paneling and sleeves with ribbed cuffs.Pull-on breechesThe pull-on breeches are sculpting, high-waisted and consciously made. Designed for both comfort and performance, the pair are designed with mesh side panels, a subtle silicone knee grip for stability and practical phone pockets.Fly hoodThe fly hood is crocheted in organic cotton, ensuring a close, low-profile fit under the bridle. Ears in four-way stretch elastane protect the horse from irritation, while bound edges with soft ribbed cord piping further ensure comfort.Saddle padThe saddle pad comes in both a dressage and classic jump square, both crafted with a 100% recycled fabric shell in an exclusive S-Wave quilt pattern. The pad features a natural bamboo and viscose-blend lining thats kind to the horses coat, as well as a vegan leather girth protection area with a dual-branded embroidered strap. Bound edges with soft ribbed cord piping unify the edits minimal, sporty aesthetic.This collection which launches today (Thursday 11 December) is available to buy onwww.lemieux.com.Images Stella McCartney x LeMieux.Related contentPole exercises that make clever, confident horsesFive gears a confident cross-country horse needs to haveConfidence comebacks: I thought I wasnt good enoughFive common problems with a riders jumping position solvedThe post Stella McCartney collaborates with LeMieux on new conscious collection appeared first on Your Horse.

Section Key Points Introduction: Navigating Equisal Test Delays Delays in Equisal test results can disrupt workflows and decision-making in labs and practices. Understanding the Equisal Test and EQAS Equisal test is vital for EQAS, assessing and improving lab performance globally. Common Causes of Delays Sample handling, administrative barriers, analytical problems, personnel competency, external factors. Sample Handling Issues Poor storage, shipping delays, and improper temperature control can degrade samples. Administrative Barriers Delays due to late sample receipt and slow result reporting systems. Analytical Problems Caused by instrument malfunctions or human errors in handling and procedures. Lab Personnel Competency Lack of skilled staff can hinder testing; familiarity with EQAS is crucial. External Factors Includes postal delays and customs issues; difficult to predict or control. Tips for Managing and Minimizing Delays Clear protocols, digital tools, regular equipment checks, staff training, root cause analysis. Maintain Clear Sample Handling Protocols Adhere to strict storage and sample processing guidelines. Use Efficient Digital Reporting Tools Leverage web-based or mobile platforms to avoid delays in reporting. Regularly Verify Equipment and Reagents Ensure equipment is calibrated and reagents are within expiry. Train and Refresh Staff Competency Provide regular training in EQAS procedures and PoCT operations. Implement Systematic Root Cause Analysis Investigate deviations systematically to improve processes. Experiences and Evidence from Labs Troubleshooting and root cause analysis improve performance; increase in analyte performance scores. Conclusion: Saddle Up Against Delays! Effective management of delays requires clear protocols, tech use, and staff training for better service. Introduction: Navigating Equisal Test Delays Experiencing delays in receiving your Equisal test results can feel like galloping against the wind. Whether you're part of a bustling laboratory or a quiet clinical practice, these delays can disrupt your workflow and decision-making. But worry not! Were here to help you navigate these hurdles and understand why they happen. Understanding the Equisal Test and EQAS The Equisal test is not just any ordinary test. It's a vital part of External Quality Assurance Schemes (EQAS). These schemes aim to assess and improve laboratory analytical performance worldwide by sending out standardized samples that labs test and return for evaluation. Feedback from EQAS highlights any analytical errors, ensuring labs maintain high quality and accuracy in their results. Common Causes of Delays in Equisal Test Results Delays in Equisal test results stem from various factors. From sample handling blunders to analytical mishaps, these obstacles can challenge even the most experienced labs. Let's dive deeper into these causes: Sample Handling Issues Improper storage, delayed shipping, or incorrect temperature control can degrade sample quality, leading to testing delays. Properly handling your samples is crucial to maintaining their integrity. Administrative and Communication Barriers Falling behind in receiving samples or failing to report results promptly in online systems can significantly delay the process. An efficient system is vital to avoid such snafus. Analytical Problems Instrument malfunctions or human errors such as incorrect sample handling, inaccurate volumes, or mixed-up procedures can lead to prolonged turnaround times. Lab Personnel Competency A skilled staff is essential. Lack of expertise or unfamiliarity with EQAS processes and platform updates can slow down testing significantly. Explore stable rugs for preparation. External Factors External factors like postal delays and customs issues are unpredictable and often challenge even the most organized laboratories. Its crucial to plan for these variabilities to mitigate their impacts. Tips for Managing and Minimizing Delays As the saying goes, a stitch in time saves nine. Proper planning and strategies can help you steer clear of the dreaded Equisal test delays. Maintain Clear Sample Handling Protocols By adhering to strict guidelines for storing and reconstituting samples, you'll avoid compromising their integrity. Never underestimate the power of precision in these processes. Use Efficient Digital Reporting Tools Turning to web-based or mobile EQAS reporting platforms can save you from paper-based and postal lag, ensuring results are submitted promptly. Regularly Verify Equipment and Reagents Keeping equipment well-calibrated and reagents within their expiry date is an excellent preventive measure against repeat runs and ensuing delays. Check our turnout rugs collection. Train and Refresh Staff Competency Regular training and refresh courses for staff on EQAS procedures and Point of Care Testing (PoCT) device operations play a key role in improving accuracy and timeliness. Implement Systematic Root Cause Analysis When deviations occur, investigate systematically. Compare expected vs. reported results, verify sample IDs, and check intra-lab quality controls to understand root causes. Fly protection solutions are available. Experiences and Evidence from Labs In research analyzing EQAS data over several years, structured troubleshooting and root cause analysis were shown to enhance performance significantly. These protocols increased the percentage of analytes with 'very good' performance scores from around 89% to over 94%. Fact Check: Key Statistics Did you know approximately 165,000 EQAS sample sets are shipped annually to over 12,000 labs worldwide? With robust quality processes, 89% to 95% of EQAS parameters achieve a "very good" performance rating. Conclusion: Saddle Up Against Delays! Delays in the Equisal test results can be quite the obstacle, but with the right tools and techniques, you can manage them effectively. By employing clear protocols, leveraging technology, training staff, and engaging with EQAS providers, your lab can exceed expectations, ensuring accurate results and better service delivery without the dreaded wait. Now that's a win!

The Horse Sport Ireland Stallion Selections are taking place at Cavan Equestrian Centre on the 26th & 27th March 2026. Applications are now open for prospective stallions for studbook selection in the Irish Sport Horse, Irish Draught Horse and Irish Sport Pony Studbooks. Please see detail regarding pricing below, with additional links for the online application, terms and conditions and selection procedures listed. The Stallion Selections are funded by the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine under the Equine Technical Support fund.Theearly bird pricing is available until close of business on the 30th January 2026:500 for Stage 1 (Irish Sport Horse, ISH), Irish Draught Horse (ID) and Irish Sport Pony (ISP) studbook selections250 for Stage 2 (ISH)A late fee of 800 applies thereafter (Stage 1/Irish Draught/Irish Sport Pony), where applications will close Tuesday 10th February, this will be the FINAL CLOSING DATE for applications, no exceptions.ClickHEREto access the application form. ID Terms and ConditionsISH/ISP Terms and ConditionsID Procedures and GuidelinesISH/ISP Procedures and GuidelinesStudbook Inspections are supported by the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine under the Equine Technical Support fund.The post 2026 Stallion Selection Applications Open appeared first on .

Keeping Your Horse Hydration in WinterThis winter in the UK has been unpredictableunseasonably mild at times, yet dipping just below zero with the occasional frosty, icy morning. With such changeable weather, deciding which rug to use can be tricky. But one thing remains constant: hydration is just as important as ever.Lower temperatures, frozen troughs, and changes in forage and feed can all reduce water intake, making horses more vulnerable to dehydrationeven when its not hot outside. Keeping fresh water accessible and encouraging drinking is essential across all temperature ranges.Water is critical to your horse or ponys health and performance. With water being 70% of their body make-up. Ensuring proper hydration is essential and can help prevent associated issues, support healthy digestion and overall well-being throughout the cold months.The tell-tale signs of dehydration include lethargy, depression, dullness in the eyes, dry skin and mouth, thick and sticky saliva, or darker looking urine.Why Hydration in Winter Matters.In summer, horses often get a significant portion of their hydration from succulent, moisture-rich grass. In winter, when grass is sparse or frosty, that natural moisture disappears, yet the horses need for water remains.Reduced water intake (for example because buckets freeze or because the water is very cold) combined with a diet rich in dry forage (like hay) can increase the risk of impaction colic, as dry feed passes through the gut less easily without enough moisture.Winter also brings shorter daylight hours and colder, wetter weather, which means horses spend more time sheltered or stabled, reducing grazing time and natural water intake.How Can You Encourage Winter Water Intake?Cold water, especially when it is icy, can be uninviting. In winter, aim to give stabled horses clean water that is just above freezing, or ideally at a tepid temperature. Some horses drink significantly more when water is warmer (not hot!)Use large, slow-to-freeze containers. Big water buckets or troughs freeze more slowly than small onesCheck and break ice frequently; multiple times a day if needed. On frosty mornings, water sources can freeze overnight. As part of your daily checks, remove any ice to guarantee accessProvide multiple water sources to avoid competition. If horses are kept in groups, a dominant horse might prevent others from reaching a single water point. Having extra buckets or troughs means every horse has a fair chance to drinkOffer water around feeding times. Horses often drink significant amounts within one to two hours of eating, especially when consuming dry winter forage. Offering fresh water at mealtimes helps encourage intake when their thirst drive is naturally higher. Add some hot water to the bucket to take the edge off the coldness.Add moisture-rich feed or soaked fibre mashes, such as Speedi-Beet or Fibre-Beet. Since hay and haylage are much drier than summer grass, soaking hay (or feeding haylage where appropriate) can add extra moisture to their diet and help with hydrationProvide free access to salt or a salt block. Salt encourages thirst, which encourages horses to drink moreSo, if youre facing a lean hay season this winter, dont worry! Speedi-Beet and Fibre-Beet are unbeetable fibre alternatives to help maintain your horses essential daily forage intake of 2% of bodyweight to support a healthy gut function all season long.What About a Hydration Winter Warmer?A highly nutritious, quick soaking beet pulp feed with no added molasses, Speedi-Beet is the perfect feed for a hydrating and nourishing winter warmer. Speedi-Beet is able to provide a 500kg horse with up to almost half of its daily water intake when soaked as per instructions as well as providing extra energy, when made with warm water, it will increase hydration and keep your horse toasty warm, from the inside out.The post Keeping Your Horse Hydrated in Winter appeared first on British Horse Feeds.

On Oct. 31, the National Veterinary Services Laboratories confirmed findings of vesicular stomatitis New Jersey virus (VSNJV) in horses on two separate premises in Cochise County, Arizona.In November, two new cases were reported, including one case in Gila County and one in Santa Cruz County.On Dec. 9, theNational Veterinary Services Laboratories detected a new VSV case by PCR on swab samples from a lesioned wild horse from the Salt River Wild Horse Management Group located in the Tonto National Forest in Maricopa County.The Arizona Department of Agriculture has issued an Administrative Order temporarily restricting the movement of domestic livestock, including horses, into or out of the affected Lower Salt River area on public land.The last outbreak of VSV in the U.S. occurred from May 2023 through January 2024, affecting 319 premises across California, Nevada, and Texas. VSV circulates annually between livestock and insect vectors in southern Mexico and only occasionally results in incursion to the U.S.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 Vesicular StomatitisVesicular stomatitis is a viral disease of horses, donkeys, mules, cattle, swine and New World camelids that occurs in the Western Hemisphere. It is named for the characteristic vesicular lesions it causes in the form of blisters, crusts and ulceration of the lips, muzzle, nose, tongue, ears, sheath, teats and/or coronary band. The virus is transmitted by biting midges and therefore is seasonal.Clinical Signs for vesicular stomatitis include:Vesicle formation leading to ulcerative lesions on the lips, muzzle, nostrils and tongue. The tongue is often the most severely affected area.Ulceration of the inner surface of the lips.Crusting of the muzzle, nostrils, and/or inside the ears.Excessive salivation secondary to the oral lesions.Difficulty picking up and chewing feed.Lameness due to painful erosions on the coronary band.Lesions can occur on the udder, sheath and inside of the ear.Lesions can develop secondary infections resulting in slow-to-heal wounds.Animals on pastures are at increased risk of vesicular stomatitis.Initial diagnosis is based on recognition of characteristic vesicular lesions. Infection is confirmed via laboratory testing for serum antibodies and/or virus identification in fluid samples from active lesions. Veterinarians are required to report suspected cases to state/federal animal health officials who will direct sample submission to an approved regulatory laboratory for diagnostic testing.There is no specific treatment for vesicular stomatitis. Best practices include implementing good biosecurity and treating affected horses with pain relievers, anti-inflammatories and supportive care as recommended by a veterinarian.Isolating all affected animals and placing the premise on immediate quarantine is required until all horses have fully recovered and no active lesions are present. The State Veterinarian will work with the local veterinarian to determine and implement necessary quarantine procedures.