Police horses have returned to the West Midlands for the first time in 26 years, with four-legged crime fighters Belgravia, Bruce, Yonkers, Yve and Yvonne now on the beat.After months of planning, specialist advice and trials using other forces horses at local football matches over the past two years, the new horses equine recruits started official duties with riders, Sgt Hadley and PCs Dixey, Masterson, Preece, Pritchard and Smith.The horses will be stabled at the forces Tally Ho! site in Edgbaston, Birmingham, where there will have access to grazing and equine vets. They will serve the entire West Midlands, and other police forces if needed. This is a moment in history for West Midlands Police as we once again welcome horses back into force, said Assistant Chief Constable Mike OHara, who led the project to bring back the horses. We have been working on this project for over a year and the plans have been carefully considered. New jobs for both police officers and police staff have been created as part of the plans including an apprentice groom.We are really grateful for the help and advice from World Horse Welfare, which has helped us to ensure that our working animals will be well cared for, right from the start.The return of horses is great news for the communities we serve as the Mounted Unit will be a massive boost for neighbourhood policing and public engagement.Horses were first involved in policing in the West Midlands in 1840, but mounted units were disbanded in 1999 as they were seen as old fashioned and costly.However, the force said their recent experience of using horses at football matches demonstrated that just six police horses could manage crowds that usually take one police support unit of more than 20 officers. This means freed-up officers can be assigned to other roles, preventing and investigating crime or supporting victims elsewhere.They added that horses are an excellent tool in increasing trust and confidence among members of the public, and have been useful when supporting victims and witnesses and for getting people to engage with officers.In total, the unit will have 12 horses ridden by two sergeants and 12 PCs. The stables will be run by an equine manager and police staff grooms, including an apprentice who will earn as they learn to secure a nationally recognised qualification.The horses will be used regularly as part of routine local policing as well as deployed to major events and at weekends in town centres for ultra-high visibility patrols.Meet the teamWest Midlands Police has worked with other forces with Mounted Units to secure five suitable horses Belgravia, Bruce, Yonkers, Yve and Yvonne for policing in the busy West Midlands. Nine other horses have been identified as potential matches for the force and are undergoing extensive checks before moving to the West Midlands.Six officers have graduated from a 16-week course in London, three officers are currently undertaking the course, two more officers are transferring from other forces, and further roles will be advertised in the new year.The first five horses include:Belgravia, an eight-year-old bay Clydesdale who is 17hhBruce, an eight-year-old grey Irish Draught who is 16.2hhYonkers, a nine-year-old grey Irish Draught who is 16.2hhYve, a nine-year-old, chestnut Irish Draught who is 16.3hhYvonne, a 13-year-old grey Irish Draught who is 16.2hhThe force said that the welfare of their horses and the safety of their riders and the public was their priority.I am delighted to welcome back West Midlands Polices dedicated Mounted Unit as horses return to the region on a full-time basis for the first time since 1999, said Police and Crime Commissioner, Simon Foster.The horses will contribute to my priorities of building community policing and trust and confidence. Not only will new jobs be created, but the support of police horses in relation to crowd management, will ensure highly-skilled officers can be assigned to other roles.I echo ACC OHaras comments that this is a moment in history for West Midlands Police and I am looking forward to welcoming the new horses.More from Your HorseMounted police volunteers are helping to solve crimes and make the roads saferBored of round the block? Four ways to find new hacking routesCould not wearing high vis leave horse riders liable in a road accident? Solicitor answersGood for bonding and his health: grooming benefits plus 5 essential brushes for your kitThe post A moment in history: Horses return to police force for first time in 26 years appeared first on Your Horse.

Key Points Details Product Name ProKalm Purpose To help horses and ponies maintain calm and focus during stressful situations Action Time Starts in 30 minutes, lasts up to 8 hours Scientific Backing Four studies highlight benefits in behavior, concentration, and performance User Feedback Effective without dulling mental acuity and energy Cost Efficiency 3.3kg tub lasts up to 3 months, costing under 1-2 per day Potential Downsides Effectiveness varies per horse; dosage may need adjustment Conclusion Compelling case for its efficacy supported by scientific and user feedback Is ProKalm Worth the Investment? Analyzing User Experiences and Effectiveness The equestrian world is abuzz with discussions about the latest in horse calming supplements, and one name that stands out is ProKalm - a supplement known for its quick action and reliable results. But is ProKalm really worth the investment? Let's delve into the science, user feedback, and overall efficacy to determine its value. Understanding ProKalm ProKalm is available as a feed supplement or syringe product designed specifically to help horses and ponies maintain calm and focus during potentially nerve-wracking situations, such as competitions or long journeys. Using a unique blend of herb extracts and amino acids, ProKalm eschews ingredients like valerian, which are typically barred in competitions. Fast-acting, its effects can begin in as little as 30 minutes, lasting up to 8 hours [2]. Scientific Backing for ProKalm What separates ProKalm from other calmers is its extensive scientific research. It is supported by four distinct studies highlighting its benefits for behavior, concentration, and dressage performance [1][3]. Particularly notable was the Gait and Dressage Study, a double-blind, placebo-controlled trial with 25 participants, showing marked improvements in gait scores over a placebo [1]. Beyond the Show Ring But it's not all about the show ring; ProKalm has shown promise in reducing stress-induced itching, corroborated by lower itch scores post-treatment in controlled settings [4]. With over 1,500 horse owners participating in surveys, ProKalm received top marks for improving behavior and concentration, securing its place as a top-rated calming supplement in the UK [5]. Real-World User Experiences Real-world feedback adds depth to clinical results. Testimonials from horse owners have consistently highlighted ProKalm's efficacy in calming horses during stressful events. Crucially, it helps without dulling their mental acuity and energy. Users report noticeable changes in their horses' demeanor within half an hour, with more composed behavior observed during travel and competition environments. The versatility of ProKalm allows for daily maintenance feeding or increased dosing during high-stress situations. Most users find that starting with the suggested 2 x 25ml scoops per day for a 500kg horse and adjusting as needed provides optimal results [2]. Cost Analysis: Investment vs. Reward The cost of ProKalm will depend on your preferred formulation - with options like the syringe or larger tubs. For those considering a long-term commitment, a 3.3kg tub proves particularly cost-effective, potentially lasting up to 3 months and costing as little as under 1-2 per day, depending on dosing needs and UK pricing [2]. For a one-time use, syringes may be ideal, with prices starting around CHF 9.99. Potential Disadvantages While ProKalm offers many benefits, it's important to remember that its effectiveness can vary from horse to horse. Some may require dosage adjustments to achieve the desired calm without overdoing it. Moreover, while ProKalm doesn't serve as a cure for all stress-related issues, it is most successful as part of a comprehensive strategy for managing horse stress. Considering Alternatives It's crucial that any use of ProKalm is based on veterinary guidance, particularly where underlying health issues might complicate the picture. For those interested, everyday horse vitamins and supplements might provide complementary benefits. Making Your Decision In conclusion, the evidence supporting ProKalm, both from scientific research and user feedback, makes a compelling case for its efficacy. A four-study backing - a rare feat among supplements - affirms its reliability and the investment is further validated by its top ratings among horse riders across the UK [5]. If better performance and reduced anxiety are priorities for your horse, investigating how ProKalm fits into your regimen might indeed prove to be a smart choice. Explore More with Just Horse Riders Looking to upgrade everything from horse apparel to Jodhpurs or boots? Just Horse Riders offers a range of products meticulously designed for the comfort and safety of both horse and rider. Whether it's the reliable stable rugs or stylish gloves, delve into their collections to give your equine companion both the style and performance they deserve.```html```

An extremely frightened and emaciated pony has been found abandoned on a public footpath in Doncaster.The RSPCA is appealing for information about the coloured pony who was discovered trapped between two gates by a member of the public walking in Owston Ferry.After being assessed by a vet, he was taken by RSPCA Animal Rescue Officer Olivia Farrar, with the help of equine charity Bransby Horses, to somewhere safe where his needs would be met.The RSPCA is now appealing for information in the hope that someone may know who abandoned the pony, who the charity has since nicknamed Niko.We found Niko in a particularly poor condition on 27 November not only was he extremely frightened but he was also very underweight, and his coat was badly matted and soiled, said Olivia. Its always upsetting to find abandoned animals; especially when they are in such a vulnerable state.We know these are challenging times for many people, and some may be struggling with the cost of animal care, however abandoning pets is never the answer. We would urge anyone who is in this position to seek help and support.We are really hoping someone in the local area may have more details about Niko. If anyone saw anything, or has any information that might help, we would be so grateful to hear from them.Anyone with information can contact the charitys appeal line on 0300 123 8018.A worrying trendNikos case is far from an isolated incident, with animal abandonments reported to the RSPCA on course to be at a six-year high.Until the end of October, 24,270 incidents involving abandonment had been raised with the charitys emergency line up from 19,727 in the first 10 months of 2024.In South Yorkshire alone, there were been 660 incidents.To help frontline teams cope with the rising demand, the RSPCA has launched its Big Give Back to Animals appeal, to raise funds so the charity can continue to be there for animals who have been dumped.The RSPCA also offers its The RSPCA has a cost of living hub, where they offer advice for owners who may be struggling.Its been a difficult year for many animals, including horses and ponies, and with the temperatures set to drop over the coming months, we are concerned that the situation could become even more challenging, added Olivia.More from Your HorseJingle bell trot: The age-old link between horses and the sound of ChristmasOpen the Your Horse Christmas Advent Calendar!Charity calls for urgent help due to equine abandonment crisis9 critical things to get right when youre taking care of a horseThe post Terrified pony found abandoned on public footpath appeared first on Your Horse.

Two-star victories for Kenny and two RyansWith seven Green Jackets among the top 35 athletes in the Longines FEI world rankings, it stands to reason that the Irish would be well represented at the prestigious five-star show in Geneva.Daniel Coyle lodged a prized victory on Friday, while Cian OConnor posted three podiums and Tim Brennan cleaned up in the U25 category.And the week concluded with Shane Sweetnam scooping a cool 250,000 for finishing second in the Rolex Grand Prix at the famous Swiss venue.It was a sixth runner-up finish in Grand Prix for the Castlemagner pilot this year, to go with his maiden GP triumph with Coriaan Van Klapscheut Z at Wellington last month.It was fourth second placing with the Patrick Connolly-bred James Kann Cruz (ISH), who is metronomic when it comes to clearing obstacles but invariably finds one rival who is a little nimbler covering the ground.That ensures a remarkable consistency for the lovable grey known as Gizmo and owned by Gizmo Partners who was Sweetnams partner at the Olympics in Paris last year.Shane Sweetnam and James Kann Cruz (ISH) on the way to a stunning runner-up finish in the Rolex Grand Prix of Geneva (Photos: Sportfot)The duo were among eight pairs to make the jump-off. Coyle just missed out on Incredible, who jumped perfectly but picked up one time fault for going 0.77 seconds over the 74 second standard, though he still picked up 9,000 for 12th, with Simon Delestre (FRA), Peder Fredricson (SWE) and Ben Maher (GBR) also misjudging the time requirement ever so slightly.Being first of the octet into the arena was a clear disadvantage for Sweetnam and Gizmo, and in that context, the repeat clear in 41.39 seconds was a scintillating effort and though three others managed to replicate the faultless renewals, they could not match that time.The world No 1, Kent Farrington and his high-class mare Greya could not be held at bay however, stopping the timers at 40.04 while leaving all the rails intact to garner the lions share of the prize money.Coyle had no doubt about who his bundle of joy was this week as Daydream marked a landmark week for the Ardmore native by providing another five-star victory to the CV in Geneva.Daniel Coyle and Daydream at the presentation ceremony after grabbing five-star gloryThe Lovin Spoonful penned the archetypal song for chilling out, but the horse that shares its name, and the man on her back were all business when it came to delivering on the big stage.On the week where the Irish No 1 was named The Irish Field senior Irish Showjumper of the Year for the third straight season and also competed in the Rolex IJRC Top Ten final for the first time, it was fitting that Coyle would exhibit his innate horsemanship in combining education with the competitive spirit in Fridays 1.45m speed class.Coyle had to love how the Ariel Grange-owned Daydream made light of the 14 jumping efforts and responded to his signals for tight turns, as they took the honours with clear round in 56.27 seconds, which was only 0.14 quicker than Bryan Balsiger (SUI) with Castiel.My plan was to put the wheels back on the wagon, Coyle told World of Showjumping afterwards.I jumped her last night in the Grand Prix qualifier, and Daydream is a new horse to this level. Every class we do, she is learning every step. She is very careful and she has taken a little bit more time than normal.Yesterday, I turned tight back to a triple bar and it scared her a little bit, so we went to try and put it right today and she did.I am very happy. We were really as one today.Coyle and Daydream have a captive audienceThe 31-year-old Derry man, who is the highest ranked Irish rider at No 10 in the world, joined forces with Incredible for the season-ending Top Ten and the duo finished seventh in their inaugural appearance in the tough 1.60m two-round affair.Great Britains Scott Brash was triumphant with Hello Chadora Lady, ahead of the only other double clear pairing, Kent Farrington (USA) with Toulayna.Coyle and Incredible had just one jumping error in each round and were the quickest of the eight faulters.OConnor had a very successful show, with a trio of podiums. On Friday, the Meath-based Kildare athlete made it a third bronze medal with a different horse in 24 hours, when time steering Genghis Khan, the nine-year-old son of Kannan to third in a stiff 1.55m speed class won by Jessica Mendoza (GBR) with In The Air.Genghis Khan was a third podium finish of the week in Geneva for Cian OConnorThe Karlswood Stables supremo has to be delighted with the form of many of his progressive horses and got the opening day of international competition in Geneva off to a brilliant start with two five-star podiums on Thursday.The highlight was the brilliant third place in the 1.60m Trophe de Genve on Thursday night with Chatonlinue PS, the 12-year-old gelding jumping two clears around a stiff track to bag 16,500.Victory went to Briton Donald Whitaker, with Millfield Colette, after they stopped the clock in the jump-off at 45.15. Christian Ahlmann (GER) was next on Dourkhan Hero Z, with a time of 46.73, with the Irish pair hot on their heels having recorded a time of 47.16.Earlier in the afternoon, OConnor registered another podium in the 1.45m two-phase class with Canbella Blue PS. The competition was won by Germanys former eventing king, Michael Young, with Fischer Duopower, as they blitzed through the arena in 25.98 on the speed section.Hans-Dieter Dreher (GER) also had a blemish-free round with Cous Cous 3, registering a speed time of 27.18, while OConnor and his 11-year-old mare stopped the clock on 28.11.The same day, Tim Brennan won the U25 Prix Range Rover with Diadema Della Caccia.And the young Kilkenny athlete and his talented partner would go on to add the feature for the age group, the U25 Grand Prix, taking care of business on Saturday morning with a clear round to ensure qualification to the jump-off, where the duo then flew across the arena and over the obstacles in a time of 36.84.There was some stiff opposition still to come but no one could improve upon that standard, Giles Mller (SUI) the closest at almost three-quarters of a second away with Giavanna CB.Later on Saturday, another youngster, the newly crowned Longines FEI Rising Star of 2025, Tom Wachman grabbed fifth in the Coupe de Genve, the 1.60m jump-off class, with Do It Easy, the hometown fans going delirious with a Swiss 1-2 in the shape of Steve Guerdat (Albfuehrens Iashin Sitte) and Martin Fuchs (Conner Jei).Also on Saturday, Conor Swail was runner-up at the other international five-star event of the week in Thermal, California, combining with Theo 160 to split Colombia representatives Mark Bluman, on board Phelina De Septon, and Roberto Teran Tafur, with Condar.Ten of the 33 combinations participating progressed to the jump-off of the 1.50m Winning Round competition, and the push for milliseconds produced six casualties, leaving only four double clears.Swail and Theo have always had gears and combined with the necessary jumping accuracy, were able to claim an outstanding silver medal thanks to a time of 34.17, eight tenths of a second ahead of Teran Tafur and a similar margin behind Bluman.Less than 24 hours after his brother Trevor had just missed out on a podium finish in a 1.45m speed class with Konrad Obolensky at the four-star event in Abu Dhabi, Shane Breen did make it, looking through the ears of BP Arctic Blue as they challenged strongly in the two-phase class on Saturday.It was Syrias Shady Ghrayeb who prevailed with a speed time of 26.99 on Cabernet de Mars, but Arctic Blue was right on their tail, the nine-year-old grey accurate and fast, just slipping into the bronze medal position by one-hundredth of a second from Abdel Sad (BEL) and Double Fancy VDM Z with a time of 27.38.Richard Howley finished second in a Grand Prix Qualifier on the third week of the three-star Autumn Mediterranean Equestrian Tour on Friday, piloting Caprice dElle to a clear round in the 1.45m speed class in 57.24.Andres Vereecke (BEL) was a little over a quarter of a second too hot with Halima van het Bonte Hof Z edging just inside the 57-second barrier. Last weeks Grand Prix winner, Niall Talbot was fourth with Fts Elliot.Paraic Kenny climbed the highest step of the podium as a result of Ganele De Rie Z cruising to success in the two-star speed class at Reisenbeck on Friday.Kenny was very cool on his eight-year-old chestnut, who left the minimum of air between his feet and the obstacles, and was quickly away from them. They left no one else with a chance of glory as the pair went clear in 67.49, more than one and three-quarter seconds ahead of Micky Morssinkhof (NED) in second with the vastly more experienced Quintendros E.Jack Ryan was an even more definitive two-star winner in Lier the same day with Susan Fitzpatricks Keatingstown Mister Cool. The duo had more than two seconds to spare from Mia Marleen Lanno (EST) with Activity Z, in a 1.45m jump-off class, recording a double clear with a decisive time of 32.47 that blew the opposition away.And the unrelated Thomas Ryan claimed the 1.45m jump-off class at the Azelhof show on Sunday with Millions Grey in a tighter affair, the eight-year-old grey still too fast for the opposition with a tiebreak time of 38.56, to prevail by almost three-quarters of a second.CSF JAMES KANN CRUZ (ISH) 2013 gelding by Kannan (KWPN) out of CSF Telly Cruz (ISH) by Cruising (ISH)[TIH]. Breeder: Patrick Connolly, Co Galway. Owner: Gizmo Partners, LLC. Rider: Shane Sweetnam (IRL).The post Swiss bliss for Coyle, Brennan, as Sweetnam goes close in GP appeared first on .

Topic Key Points Understanding Bute and Its Limitations Quick relief for arthritis but potential side effects with prolonged use. Gastrointestinal risks: Up to 50% of horses may face ulcers with NSAIDs. Kidney concerns, especially in older or dehydrated horses. Natural Supplements as Alternatives Devil's Claw and Yucca-based formulas like Bute-Less for inflammation. Herbal blends such as FreeBute and Boswellia for joint health without gut issues. Research-backed supplements: Glucosamine, Chondroitin, MSM, and HA. Other options: Bute-Like and antioxidant blends for gentle relief. Best Practices for Supplement Combos Consult a vet to monitor kidney and GI health. Introduce supplements slowly and monitor improvements. Maintain holistic management with ideal body condition and tailored diets. Ensure compliance with competition rules when using supplements. Benefits of Safe Supplements Sustainable joint health and minimized side effects. Potential to decrease bute dosages effectively. Backed by research and user testimonials for effectiveness. Exploring Safe Supplement Options for Arthritic Horses on Bute: What You Need to Know Managing arthritis in horses is often no walk in the pasture. While phenylbutazone (fondly known as bute) remains a go-to for immediate pain relief and inflammation reduction, its long-term use is about as advisable as jogging in flip-flopsinevitable blisters included! This comprehensive guide explores natural supplements that can complement or replace bute, ensuring your equine friend is more galloping grace than grumbling grouch. Understanding Bute and Its Limitations for Arthritic Horses Arthritics' rough ride with bute resembles trying to balance on a seesaw: quick relief one moment, but potential side effects the next. Widely prescribed for short-term relief in arthritic horses, bute blocks inflammatory pathways. Unfortunately, long-term use could lead to gastrointestinal havoc and kidney complications.[2] Gastrointestinal risks: Studies claim up to 50% of horses on prolonged NSAID treatments may face stomach ulcers.[2] Kidney concerns: Particularly risky for older steeds or those with dehydration issues.[2] With side effects like these, it's no surprise that many horse owners are searching for bute alternatives or complements. Enter natural supplementsgentler on the stomach and safer for everyday use. Top Natural Supplements Safe Alongside Bute Dive into this treasure trove of research-backed supplements that artfully target arthritis's root causes, all while minimizing bute dependency. Be mindful of vet guidance when mixing these with NSAIDs.[5] 1. Devil's Claw and Yucca-Based Formulas (e.g., Bute-Less) Not as fearsome as it sounds, Devil's Claw (*Harpagophytum procumbens*) coupled with yucca (*Yucca schidigera*) mirrors bute's anti-inflammatory chops without the side effects wrinkles![1] Products like Bute-Less often include Vitamin B-12 for added recovery support. How it helps: Encourages balanced inflammation responsestar rating: 4.7/5 from many satisfied mane-swingers![1] Effectiveness: Expect results within a mere week. Safety with bute: No stomach drama herethough watch out for devil's claw near USEF competitions.[5] Dosing example: Available in convenient pellets or solutions, a gallon treats multiple horses.[1] 2. Herbal Blends Like FreeBute and Boswellia Cavalor FreeBute combines a wild mix of wonders including green-lipped mussel for flexible joints, while Boswellia targets chronic arthritis without the gut grumblings.[4][8] Benefits: Great for pain management and overall mobility with humans backing its use in similar setups.[8] Compatible with bute: Herbals here skirt interactions![4] 3. Research-Backed Joint Builders: Glucosamine, Chondroitin, MSM, and HA Supplement Key Benefit Research Insight Typical Dose Glucosamine & Chondroitin Sulfate Cartilage support Improves synovial fluid 5,000-10,000 mg/day combined MSM (Methylsulfonylmethane) Inflammation reduction Mobility endorsed 5-10g/day Hyaluronic Acid (HA) Joint lubrication Decreases joint inflammation 100-250mg/day Omega-3 Fatty Acids (EPA/DHA) Lower prostaglandins Improves synovial fluid Sourced from fish oil These trusty supplements, commonly found in products like Mad Barn's Omneity, go the distance in long-term health strategy for your equine athlete.[3] 4. Other Gentle Options: Bute-Like and Antioxidant Blends For a milder choice, grab some Bute-Like. Created from grapeseed and tart cherry, it's fast-acting and gentle on the tummyideal for seniors relishing their golden days.[6] Caution: Avoid mixing with NSAIDs on the same day, just to be safe.[5][6] Best Practices for Combining Supplements with Bute To ensure an enriching experience without any unpleasant surprises: Consult your vet: Safety first! Monitor kidney and GI health with a close eye.[2] Introduce slowly: One supplement at a time, documenting any tangible improvements. Holistic management: Keep inflammation risk low with ideal body condition, tailored diets, or even vet therapies such as Adequan injections.[2][3] Competition caution: Ensure compliance with competition rules.[2][5] Success stories: Long-term results speak for themselves with a plethora of satisfied patrons.[5] Why These Supplements Add Value for Your Arthritic Horse Your equine companion deserves comfort, and these supplements offer sustainable joint health. They aid in decreasing bute doses while minimizing side effects, culminating in a much happier horse. With glowing user reviews and research backing the efficacy of reducing inflammation, theres no reason to hold back.[1][2][3] For personalized insight and plan adaptation, always partner with your trusted veterinarian. Safe supplements pave the way for long-term successful arthritis management. Conclusion Breaking free from the limitations of bute dependence, the exploration of natural supplements unveils multiple paths to holistic healing for arthritic horses. Whether you're starting with new riding jodhpurs for better comfort or indulging in luxury horse gifts, remember your unique companion's joy and mobility lies at the heart of safe supplementation choices. Your horse's journey to better joint health begins now!```html```

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