The American Association of Equine Practitioners (AAEP)bestowedits inauguralOlive Kendrick Britt Rising Star AwarduponJamie Clark, DVM,a Montana-based equine ambulatory relief veterinarianwho is prioritizingretention efforts in equine veterinary medicine.The Olive Kendrick Britt Rising Star Awardhonors an AAEP member within the first decade of their career for leadership or engagement withinthe AAEP and/or profession or for design and delivery of research that advances horse health or veterinarian wellbeing.Clark accepted her awardDec. 9 during the Presidents Luncheon at the AAEPs 71stAnnual Convention in Denver, Colorado.After receiving her veterinary degree from Washington State University in 2019, Clark completed an equine field service internshipat Colorado State University before joining Montana EquineMedical and Surgical Centerin 2020as an associate in its Helena division.Sheembarkedon equine ambulatory relief workin 2025and will be launching 360 Equine Performance in spring 2026. The equine ambulatory servicewill focus onperformancehorse care and be based primarily in Helena, Montana, with winters in Ocala, Florida.Beyond her daily practice,Clark hasembraced and activelycontributedto AAEPsequine veterinarysustainability efforts. Shehas been integral tothegrowth andsuccess of the AAEPs Foundational Skills in Equine Practice continuing education event,designedto equip early career practitioners withessentialsskills for long-term success.Clarkserved on theplanning committeeto organize lectures and wet labs for 60 participantsfor theinitialevent in February 2022. Shestepped intoa leadership role byservingas program co-chairfor the second edition of the meeting in October 2023andcontinued with theevent seriesas an instructorforthe third renewal in August 2025.Reinforcing her commitment toprofessionalsustainability,Clarkservedas co-moderator of a Table Topiconmodernparenting in equine practiceat the 2024 AAEP Annual Convention;and she is an original member of the AAEPs Early Career Committee, established inlate2024to engage with recent graduates as well as develop resources andnetworking opportunities.Dr. Clarkis passionate about the horse, her family, and helping others reach their goals, said nominator Luke Bass, DVM, MS, Dipl. ABVP. Not only has Dr. Clark found her calling in life to be an equine veterinarian, but she also isdedicated and passionate about AAEP and its educational mission.Award namesakeDr. Olive Kendrick Brittwas the first female large animal intern/resident attheUniversity of Pennsylvania who also practiced as the first woman equine veterinarian in Virginia.

The American Association of Equine Practitioners (AAEP)presentedits inaugural Margaret Phyllis Lose Solo Practitioner AwardtoAmanda McCleery, DVM,apredominantly equineambulatory practitionerin Floridawhose adoption andsubsequentadvocacyoftheemergency cooperativecoverage modelhas improved sustainabilityand life balancefor herself and countless otherequine veterinarians.The Margaret Phyllis Lose Solo Practitioner Award honors an AAEP member in solo practice whodemonstratescommitment to the advancement of the equine veterinary profession while also striving for work-life harmony, thereby serving as an exemplary role model for others in the association, particularly those in private practice. McCleery accepted her award Dec. 9 during the Presidents Luncheon at the AAEPs 71stAnnual Convention in Denver, Colorado.A 2009 veterinary graduate of Texas A&M University, in College Station, McCleery established McCleery Equine Veterinary Servicenear Gainesville, Florida,in October 2014.Sheinitiatedthe2017formation of theNorth Florida Large Animal Emergency Cooperative,comprisedof four solo ambulatory practitionerswho share emergency coverage responsibilities and meet monthlyforcase discussionand collegiality.The following year, she joined Decade One, a professional development and peer support program for early careerpractitioners, andshared with her Decade One groupthebeneficial impactofheremergencycooperative.Group membersbegan to explore andinitiatetheir own emergency cooperatives, andtheidea spreadtoother Decade One groupsacross the US.McCleery helped spearhead the 2020 AAEP Emergency Coverage Survey, the results of which she presented at the 2021 AAEP Annual Conventionhighlighting how perceived challenges and concernswith emergency cooperativescan be addressed or mitigated.When her Fulbright Scholar husbandreceived the opportunity to spend aresearchyear in South Africain 2023, McCleery added an associate veterinarian to care for her clientsduringher absencewith periodic returns to tend to the practice.When the associate left after four months, McCleerymet clients needsthroughsupport from her emergency cooperative,more cross-Atlantic travel,andinclusive and transparent communicationwith her clients on Facebook.Dr. McCleery has had a distinct impact on her peers and on the veterinary profession through her demonstration of living a full life that blends a priority on family, unique experiences, professional dedication and success, and cooperative collaboration with colleagues,said her nominator Amy Grice.Award namesake Dr. Margaret Phyllis Lose was a racetrack practitioner whoestablishedthe first equine-only practice owned by a woman.

Unbridled Sanctuary, a nonprofit equinerescueand protection facility that provides rehabilitation,retraining,selective rehoming and,often,a permanent home to the equids in its care,is the recent ofthe American Association of Equine Practitioners (AAEP) 2025 A. Gary Lavin Equine Welfare Award.The A. Gary Lavin Equine Welfare Award recognizes a nonveterinary organization or individual that hasdemonstratedexceptional compassion or developed and enforced rules and guidelines for the welfare of horses. The award is named in honor of the late A. Gary Lavin, VMD, an influential and widely respected equine veterinarian who served as AAEP president in 1994. Unbridled Sanctuaryfounderand CEOSusan Kayne accepted the awardDec. 9 during the Presidents Luncheon at the AAEPs 71stAnnual Convention in Denver, Colorado.Established in 2004 as Unbridled Thoroughbred Foundation, the rescue later opened its doors toallequids and changed its name to Unbridled Sanctuary.Located in Greenville, New York, Unbridled Sanctuary cares forapproximately 60residents at anygiventimethrough thegeneroussupportof its volunteers and donors.The nonprofit provides high-quality care from routine veterinary procedures to colic surgeries and beyond.On entering the barn there is always a sense of joy, harmony, dedication and a missioneveryone working together for the health and welfare of the horse, said nominator Stephen OGrady. Never a thought of anything preemptive, just a set of guidelines used to care for the horses in a gentle, efficient manner.Unbridled Sanctuarys efforts extend beyond its facility and the equidsinits careto includeadvocacy,educationand legislative initiatives to improve equine welfare.Through the sanctuary,Kaynehasspearheaded legislative changes in New York to ensure greater protection for equids;presentedfrequentlyat the Oxford Centre for Animal Ethics at the University of Oxford;and developed the Stable Classroom curriculum,throughwhichstudents use the stories of rescued equines to cultivate empathy and compassion.For more information about Unbridled Sanctuary, visithttps://www.susankayne.com/unbridled.html.

Utilizing the right energy sources can help improve your horses performance. | Shelley PaulsonQ: How can I balance calorie density and fiber content in my horses feed to optimize his performance without sacrificing gut health?A: Performance horse nutrition focuses on providing energy for work and ensuring a balanced intake of protein, vitamins, and minerals to support both activity and recovery, while also promoting good gut health. These horses require more nutrients compared to less active horses, but the exact amount depends on how often, how long, and how intensely they work. If your horses forage is of high quality and their workload is lighter, forage, hay, or pasture is more likely to cover most of their nutritional needs.With increased performance level comes higher energy demand. Energy, measured in calories, provides fuel to run the system and do physical work. Body condition is a good indicator of whether dietary calories are meeting the demand. While there might be some individual variation, performance horses are at their best when maintained in a moderate body condition score of 56, where you can easily feel but not see the ribs.Energy Sources for Performance HorsesWhile it is easy to determine when total energy needs are being met, understanding the sources of energy used during exercise is a bit more complicated. A horses primary energy stores are body fat deposits and glycogen (a complex sugar) stored in the liver and muscles. Body fat is the major energy source for low-intensity aerobic activities performed over several minutes or even hours. It is supplied primarily by dietary fats and fibers. Glycogen is the main fuel source for higher-intensity anaerobic work that lasts for seconds or a few minutes. The horse gets this from dietary starch and sugar. Protein is not a major or efficient energy source. When horses run low on glycogen, though, they start relying on protein for energy. Ideally, protein maintains muscle mass and is a component of antibodies, enzymes, and some hormones, include insulin, growth hormone, and parathyroid hormone, which play vital roles in regulating various physiological processes in the body.The level of stored energy in these body fuel tanks depends on the amounts and sources of calories available from the diet. Horses eat plants, which store energy as carbohydrates and a small percentage of fats. Dietary carbohydrates are composed of starch, sugar, and fiber. Hay and pasture provide more calories from fiber, though some pasture grass and hay can have relatively high sugar content. Grains such as oats, corn, and barley provide more calories from starch. The body converts calories from fiber primarily to volatile fatty acids, which provide the majority of energy for the horse at maintenance but have limited capacity to fuel hard work. The horses body absorbs starch and sugar calories as glucose, which is available immediately for work or stored as glycogen. Once the glycogen fuel tanks are full, additional starch and sugar calories contribute to body fat stores.Choosing the Right Feed for Performance HorsesThe reason for feeding grain has traditionally been to supply calories when hay or pasture alone wouldnt maintain body condition in working horses. Oats and corn provide significantly more calories per pound (1,2001,500 kilocalories/pound, respectively) than good-quality hay (8001,100 kcal/lb). Higher-calorie, more digestible fiber types such as soy hulls, beet pulp (both average 1,000 kcal/lb) and wheat middlings (1,500 kcal/lb) have replaced some or all of the grain in modern performance feeds.Fats provide a high concentration of calories and are an efficient energy source, by including fats in formulas, you can decrease the amount of feed needed to meet a horses caloric requirements. Fat provides 2.25 times the caloric content by weight compared to starch and sugar, while also producing less heat during digestion than carbohydrates, particularly fiber. In practical terms, one pound of fat (equivalent to two cups of vegetable oil) supplies as many calories as three pounds of oats or approximately four to five pounds of hay. Formulating feeds with higher fats and digestible fibers has allowed feed manufacturers to replace some or all the grains while maintaining high calorie density. This helps more safely meet high calorie demands of performance horses in a lower volume of feed. A reliable rule of thumb that helps optimize gut health is to keep supplemental feed meal sizes at a maximum of 0.5 pounds of feed per 100 pounds of body weight (5-pound feed meals for 1,000-pound horses).Take-Home MessageThe ideal mix of fuel sources depends on a horses performance needs. Fats mainly power aerobic work, while glycogen fuels anaerobic activity; dietary fats and fiber do not rapidly restore glycogen. Providing good-quality hay and a well-formulated feed with balanced nutrients and appropriate calorie sources supports both performance and gut health.Do you have an equine nutrition question? Do you have an equine nutrition question? The Horses editors want to hear from you! Submit your question via the form below. Name(Required) First Last Email(Required) Submit your equine nutrition question below!(Required)CAPTCHA

A Riding for the Disabled (RDA) group in Suffolk is raising money to fund equipment which will allow it to offer vaulting in its programme of therapeutic riding, driving and equine-assisted activities.Woodbridge and District RDA Group hopes that offering vaulting to its members will open life-changing opportunities and give them improved strength, flexibility and confidence as well as developing resilience and building joy and independence.The group would like to deliver vaulting sessions twice a week for up to 24 disabled participants. In order to do this, they need to raise 13,750 to match a conditional grant of the same amount that they have been offered from Sport Englands Movement Fund. If they are successful, Sport England will release the grant within 28 days of the campaign closing.The 27,500 will be used to purchase a simulator and vaulting barrel.Rally togetherThis is our moment to rally together and make history for RDA Woodbridge and its participants, said Anne Hardwick, Woodbridge and District RDA Group centre manager and chair of British Equestrian Vaulting.Vaulting is more than a sport. Its a celebration of courage, balance, and teamwork. Participants perform gymnastic movements on a horse guided by a lunger, building trust and harmony between horse and rider.With music, creativity, and camaraderie at its heart, vaulting is accessible to all whether or not youve ever ridden before.DonationsThe crowdfunding campaign opened on Tuesday 2 December and at the time of writing (Wednesday 10 December) it has raised 2,457. It will remain open until Sunday 9 February 2026.This campaign isnt just about raising money its about raising hope, said John Anderson, trustee at Woodbridge and District RDA Group.Every pound donated is a step closer to unlocking matched funding and opening doors for disabled children and young adults in our community.The group invite individuals, families, schools, and businesses to stand with them. Together, we can create a vaulting programme that will inspire, empower, and transform lives for years to come. Lets lift each other higher. Lets bring vaulting to RDA Woodbridge.To make a donation, click here. 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 Local RDA group launch crowdfunding campaign in bid to introduce vaulting appeared first on Your Horse.

HeaderDetailsUnique AspectsStandardbred trotters maintain a two-beat gait, requiring symmetrical muscle strength, and result from selective breeding.Training ChallengesMaintaining the trot gait under stress to avoid disqualificationManaging muscle fatigue and metabolic stress due to intense trainingInjury risks in young horses, overreliance on jogging regimensEnergy and recovery demands, requiring efficient managementKey AdvantagesPredictable fitness metrics aid in crafting training programsAdaptable training structures enhance both aerobic and anaerobic systemsBreeding and selection tools ensure trot purity and performanceEconomic incentives through substantial race winningsBest PracticesIndividualize training via test results for enhancementsBalance training intensity to prevent muscle fatigueMonitor recovery to adjust and prevent overtrainingConclusionTraining Standardbred trotters offers substantial rewards for trainers through optimized, data-driven techniques, peaking at 5 years.Understanding the Unique Challenges and Advantages of Training Standardbred TrottersStandardbred trotters are an iconic element of horse racing, recognized for their distinct trotting gait and formidable speed. They showcase a unique blend of genetic talent and rigorous training regimens that put their endurance, strength, and trot precision to the test. This blog delves into the specific challenges and benefits of training Standardbred trotters, offering insights for equestrians and enthusiasts alike.What Makes Standardbred Trotters Unique?Standardbred trotters are specialized harness racing horses known for their ability to maintain a two-beat gait at high speeds. Unlike their galloping Thoroughbred cousins, they must stick to a trotting pace, requiring symmetrical strength in their muscles. This unique demand has resulted in selective breeding to ensure trot purity, providing a solid foundation for their racing success.Approximately 20% of trotters from trotter sires naturally pace, highlighting the challenges of maintaining gait-specific traits through breeding. It's a precise balance of nature and nurture that trainers learn to master.Major Challenges in Training TrottersTraining these phenomenal athletes is fraught with its own set of complex challenges, which can negatively impact their performance without proper management.Maintaining the Trot Gait Under StressMaintaining a non-stop trotting gait at velocity requires intense neuromuscular control. If a trotter breaks into a canter, they face disqualification, a common risk requiring careful monitoring of plasma lactate levels during submaximal track tests.Metabolic and Muscle FatigueStandardbred trotters rely on muscle power for energy, which can lead to muscle fatigue and metabolic stress during demanding training schedules. They must balance intensity with endurance to ensure optimal performance. Findings suggest that horses with lower lactate levels at specific speeds perform better, enduring fewer starts and capturing more wins.Injury and Overtraining RisksInjury is a major concern when training Standardbred trotters. Poor fitness and injury rates are common in younger horses, sometimes necessitating treatment and affecting long-term performance. The prevalence of overreliance on jogging and pacing regimens can lead to burnout.Energy and Recovery DemandsTraining involves pushing heart rates above 180 bpm, increasing the need for efficient energy use and recovery. This requires innovative strategies to manage these energy needs, including proper scheduling of rest and active recovery phases.Key Advantages of Training TrottersDespite these challenges, training Standardbred trotters offers measurable benefits that aid in crafting precise and effective training programs.Predictable Fitness MetricsThe regimented nature of Standardbred training offers predictable fitness metrics that are essential for developing successful programs. By analyzing these metrics, such as VO2 max, lactate thresholds, and speeds at aerobic thresholds, trainers can optimize their regimens, ensuring fitness levels match racing demands.Adaptable Training StructuresPhased training structures, consisting of >foundation jogging, intervals, and racing, help enhance both aerobic and anaerobic systems. This adaptability ensures that training regimens remain flexible and focused on peak performance. Track tests of 2-year-olds further guide training by individualizing programs according to fitness needs.Breeding and Selection ToolsThrough breaking performance down to BLUP metrics, trainers can select breeds that excel in trot purity, leading to high achievers in races. This aids in making informed selections to enhance trot consistency across generations.Economic IncentivesThe return on investment in training Standardbreds can be economically rewarding. For instance, Australian races in 2001 garnered $71.5 million in stakes, emphasizing the potential financial incentives for dedicated trainers.Best Practices for Overcoming ChallengesEmploying best practices is essential to overcome the inherent challenges associated with training Standardbred trotters, leading to improved performance and reduced risk of injury.Individualize via TestsUtilize incremental treadmill tests as a baseline to gauge VO2, lactate levels, and vertical movements at the withers. Adjustments from these results provide personalized training enhancements for underperforming trotters.Balance Training IntensityA strategic balance between interval training and long, low-intensity workouts helps preserve endurance while preventing muscle fatigue.Monitor Recovery and RestAllow at least one day of rest weekly while monitoring recovery patterns through heart rates and performance indicators. Adjusting for these variables helps prevent overtraining and injuries.Conclusion: A Rewarding Path for Dedicated TrainersThe world of Standardbred trotters embodies a thrilling mix of athleticism, precision, and strategic management. Although they present unique training challenges, the rewards are substantial for trainers who succeed in optimizing their performance through measured, data-driven protocols. With careers typically peaking at about 5 years, these trotters showcase the splendor and potential of structured and tailored training, offering significant success when mastered effectively.For more insights and to explore equestrian products designed for horse riders, visit Just Horse Riders.```html```

Table of ContentsToggleStay WarmOutdoor TimePampering and Self-CareStretchingHydrationEat for the SeasonContinue LearningFurther ReadingHorse people are typically made from hardy stock, but that doesnt negate the need for equestrian wellnessespecially during winter. Self-care should always be paramount, but during the winter, a little extra zhuzh can be helpful to your physical and mental well-being.Photo by MW Creative PhotographyAs a longtime horsewoman and wellness advocate, I understand the well-being needs of equestrians. The winter months can be challenging: taking care of horses in cold weather involves additional chores, like blanketing, filling hay nets, keeping water troughs from freezing, et cetera. This, combined with less riding time, can take its toll.The following tips will help you feel your best this winter, both mentally and physically.Stay Warm Keeping your core temperature up and keeping bones, joints, muscles, and ligaments warm is essential to feeling energized and maintaining immune health and range of motion; being cold depletes these things.Dont skimp on winter wear at the barn or during cold-weather rides. Most equestrians have a robust, all-season wardrobe, but from time to time its helpful to give your winter attire a little upgrade. Perhaps its time for a new pair of waterproof or fleece-lined boots, or maybe to invest in some insulated coveralls.Using inexpensive boot and glove warmers is one of my favorite ways to keep my feet and hands from becoming uncomfortably cold. Im also an advocate of base layers (long johns, thermals, and the like), and Im a big fan of legwarmers!Its hard to beat the time-tested warmth of wool, whether it be thick wool socks or a heavy wool sweater. Top all that off with some waterproof gear, and youre good to go! For those who get chilled easily or live in cold climates, heated vests and gloves are a nice option.Finally, dont forget to top off with a scarf, gaiters, and hat. With all the advanced winter gear, fabrics, and styles, you can find something to keep you cozy while enhancing your functional equestrian winter wardrobe.Outdoor TimeMost horse owners dont have the option to stay indoors all day, and thats a good thing. Though it may not be as appealing to be outside in winter, there are benefits. Being in nature can have a grounding effect, plus sunshine and vitamin D are essential for mood and immune health. If youre feeling challenged by doing winter horse tasks, try shifting your attitude to be more appreciative of the added exercise, movement, and time in nature. Try reframing any complaining to, Wow, I get to do this!One of my winter disciplines is to walk to my barn (-mile round trip), regardless of the weather. Not only does this add more steps to my day, but I always relish the beauty along the way, whether its animal prints in the snow, the quiet, or a hawk flying above. And Im always greeted with nickers from my horse, which warms my heart in any weather.Pampering and Self-CareOn another note about keeping warm, hot winter baths are my go-to. A jetted tub or hot tub is even better, if available. Its a great way to raise your core temperature, plus feel a little pampered. A popular trend is installing a home sauna to heat up and detox, or perhaps take advantage of one at your local gym. Some people find the warmth and brightness of light boxes helpful in combating seasonal affective disorder. Im also a fan of hot teas. I call winter tea seasonthere are so many delicious, warming flavors, and its always fun to try new ones. (Some of my faves are Egyptian licorice, ginger, and elderberry.) Drinking a warm beverage from your favorite mug adds to the experience; you can even make it part of your self-care ritual.Drinking a warm beverage, such as herbal tea, can become a great part of your self-care ritual. Photo by fizkes/Adobe StockStretchingNobody enjoys raking, carrying buckets, or pushing a wheelbarrow and tweaking a cold muscle. But if you dont have the option to farm out your chores, you also cant afford downtime with an injury or strain.Taking even just a few minutes for some warm-up stretches before heading out into the cold can make a big differencenot only for comfort, but for safety as well. Stretching a cold muscle is like trying to stretch a piece of gum thats been in the freezer: its not too pliable and easily snaps and breaks.Taking even just a few minutes for some warm-up stretches before heading out into the cold can make a big differencenot only for comfort, but for safety as well. Photo by shurkin_son/Adobe StockAdditionally, if youre stiff when riding, you restrict your horses movement. Youll have a better-moving horse if youre warmed up and moving optimally. Since you warm up your horse at the beginning of a riding or training session, dont forget to warm yourself up, too!A few overall body stretches can go a long way. You dont have to be a yoga expert to include some gentle stretching into your daily routine. By incorporating deep breathing and mindfulness into your stretches, youll glean the added benefits of being more centered, calm, and focused, which your horse will also appreciate.HydrationWinter is a common time to become dehydrated. With the cooler weather, you can feel less inclined to drink water since youre not feeling overheated. Adding a slice of citrus or cucumber adds interest as well as some healthy properties.Being in a heated house or office can be very drying and dehydrating. Proper hydration is essential to feeling well and reducing brain fog, fatigue, and headaches, as well as promoting a better functioning immune system. Grab that favorite water bottle, keep it full, and keep sipping throughout the day, even when you think youre not thirsty.Eat for the SeasonNutrition experts suggest that our diets should change with the seasons. Warmer, hardier, higher-calorie meals can go a long way in sustaining energy, which can often get depleted trying to stay warm.Energy and immune health can be supported by nourishing your body through a proper diet, and perhaps by adding immune-building supplements for an extra boost.Continue LearningWinter is an excellent time to learn new skills. Whether its an instructional book, an online fitness class, a virtual clinic, or perhaps an interesting podcast, you can stay on top of your game even when youre not in the saddle as much. Not only is learning new skills helpful, but continued learning keeps us mentally engaged and plugged in.Whether its an online class, virtual clinic, or perhaps an interesting podcast, you can stay on top of your game even when youre not in the saddle as much. Photo by Pixel-Shot/Adobe StockIn addition to these suggestions, getting good sleep and reducing stress are also part of self-care. The bottom line is to stay committed to wellness, as a lot falls under that umbrella.Sometimes when youre feeling sluggish or unmotivated during the winter, you have to dig deeper to stay proactive, but I believe youll find its a worthwhile investment. Come spring, youll need less of a tune-up. Work with what you have, do what you can, and stay engaged, warm, healthy and well.Further Reading Winter Fitness Tips for EquestriansImprove Your Riding Through Your Everyday Life Core Strength for EquestriansThis article about equestrian winter wellness appeared in the November/December 2024 issue of Horse Illustratedmagazine.Click here to subscribe!The post Equestrian Winter Wellness appeared first on Horse Illustrated Magazine.