Absolute Horse - November 2019 by Absolute Horse Magazine

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Absolute Inside...

NOVEMBER 2019

Hoysup!

Round

SEE PAGE 9

PLUS

WIN THIS WREATH!

Also Inside... STYLISH COUNTRY & EQUESTRIAN CHRISTMAS GIFTS

NOVEMBER

2019 ISSUE 339

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Cashel Bay JJ excelled at this year’s HOYS. Coverage of this year’s event starts on page 50. Photo: 1st Class Images

Though every attempt is made to ensure accuracy, PCD Media Ltd cannot be held responsible for the opinions expressed in the magazine. The opinions and technical information in the articles are those of the authors.

How to contact and connect with us...

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Classifieds/Vets Directory Agroco-sponsored Showdates Diary

FEATURES 7 Christmas Gift Guide including eco-friendly gift ideas, the launch of a new sustainable bamboo clothing range, we meet a Framlingham-based equestrian jeweller, plus a unique keepsake product is launched 16 Health & Welfare - including protecting your horse in all seasons, Rose Kimberley discusses the poll, plus first aid

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WHAT’S

INSIDE

REGULARS 4 News 15 Rhea Freeman Asks - What would you like to gain from using social media? 23 Samantha Hardingham - CBD Oil...What’s all the fuss? 32 Daisy Bayliss’ Herbal Answers - How to provide a natural source of minerals and vitamins 33 Donna Case Equine Nutritionist - Cafeteria style feeding explained 60 Event and Reader Reports

Nutrition - including feeding advice for the Hunter, tips for minimising winter Colic, letting your horse graze as nature intended, there’s an EquiBiome Test case study, we catch up with Charlene Goudkuil, we find out how Mycotoxins affect horses, and also catch up with Georgie Spence Five Minutes With...Rachel Hartopp Saddlery & Tack Love Dogs HOYS Roundup

COMPETITIONS 6 Ariat Saddle Snaps 9 Horseshoe Heart Wreath 15 EG07 Boots 27 Turmeraid 50 VetSpec

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NEWS CELEBRATING EQUESTRIAN EXCELLENCE

he annual Animal Health Trust UK Equestrian Awards brought together British and equestrian royalty at The Landmark Hotel, London recently. Its President, HRH The Princess Royal, welcomed professional riders, trainers, leading equine vets and charity supporters to the annual event. Winners included the Animal Health Trust Equine Flu Response Team who won the SEIB Insurance Brokers Special Award. The Barbour Foundation Under 25’s Star of the Future Award winner was local rider Bubby Upton. As 2019’s Young Rider European Champion, Bubby competed with Team GB at the Young Rider European Championships and also made her Senior Team debut at the Nations Cup competition.

SCHOOLGIRL HOSTS TOUR AT NATIONAL STUD

BRITISH BREEDING CELEBRATION BALL

s the 2019 British Breeding Baileys Horse Feeds Futurity series comes to a close, the British Breeding Celebration Ball on Saturday 9th November will recognise the achievements of top-scoring participants. To be held at Grittleton House, Wiltshire, this black-tie event will ensure an evening of enjoyment, ideal for bringing together British breeders from across the country. Tickets are priced at £100 per person and are on sale now. www.british-breeding.com

ourteen-year-old Paige Peacock from Saffron Walden was named the tourism hub’s official Junior Tour Guide after showing a passion for horseracing in her entry to their recent competition. Judges were also impressed that she volunteers and educates visitors at her school farm.

STRATFORD HILLS ANNOUNCEMENT

he Stratford Hills Horse Trials committee are pleased to announce the Charlie Watkins Foundation as its 2020 charity. With next season’s dates confirmed as the 13th and 14th June, the event will enter its eighteenth year of running and aims to raise more funds for local charities.

Competition Winners: 3D Printed Sculpture Penny Brooks - Essex. Equisafety Rachel Griffin Essex. Bucas Julie Ellis - Norfolk. Covalliero LIlli Hughes - Essex; Gill Mills - Essex.

NEW MENTAL HEALTH AWARENESS CAMPAIGN

questrian retail brand Hooves & Love are to launch an online 7-day mental health awareness challenge. Taking place from 1st-7th November on their social platforms, the week of awareness will highlight some of the issues facing the equine industry around mental health and the pressures faced. Founder Emma says, “Sometimes we lose sight of the simple tasks such as reaching out to a friend. I can’t wait to see the positivity that will hopefully arise from this challenge.” www.hoovesandlove.co.uk

MAKE YOUR NYE UNFORGETTABLE

nternet sensations, This Esme and Teddy the Shetland, are attending this year’s TheraPlate UK Liverpool International Horse Show to meet their fans in an exclusive ‘An Audience With’ session at 4pm on Tuesday 31st December. Availability is limited so book now to avoid disappointment. www.liverpoolhorseshow.com

COMPETITION

WINNER! - Jodie Teather

“Last time I get dressed in the dark!”

- Emma Reedman

“Haha! We are so funny, me and my human do make each other laugh!”

SNAPS

EACH MONTH AN ABSOLUTE HORSE READER WILL WIN A PAIR OF

ARIAT BURFORD BOOTS

- Jacqueline Evers

“Did someone say ‘time to get up’?”

- Pauline Whitley

“You may kiss me on the cheek if you wish!”

SADDLE

worth over £130!

Sponsored by

- Kerri Holmes

“My human said stay clean for tomorrow’s show!”

- Christy Calder

- Courtney Byrne

Insta vs Reality… Meeting the new brother

“Give us a kiss mama!”

“The best friend has fur and 4 legs”

“Oh no, not more matchy matchy, this ones more Le Meow and scratchy!” “Trick or Treat!?”

snaps@ ahmagazine.com

Don’t forget to include your contact details and a caption to your image! The best photo/caption wins the boots.

- Lucy Howell

- Bethony Archer

Entry is easy, simply email a candid photo of your horse to

- Marianne La wrence

Good luck!

CHRISTMAS GIFT GUIDE Nourish Sweatshirt. RRP: £65. £10 from the sale of this product will be donated to Breast Cancer Care and Macmillan. www.annabelbrocks.com

Sofia Hat Black. RRP: £59.95. www.schoffel country.com

Abbey boots. RRP: £180. www.ariat.com/gb for stockists

Bespoke Cherry Roller Bangle. RRP: £105. www.hihosilver.co.uk

r e H r o F

Caralarga Mantarrya Necklace. RRP: £55. www.caralarga.com.mx

Ellie Equine Tally Ho Skirt made from vintage repurposed fabric. RRP: from £45. www.etsy.com/uk/shop/ EllieEquineDesigns

Aiglentine. RRP: £95. www.aigle.com Lindsell Dress. RRP: £65 (corduroy option) or £95 (tweed option). www.thefiner horse.com

18 Carat Gold Plated T Bar Hoops. RRP: £160. www.rennejewellery.co.uk Elizabeth Ebsworth Photography Photoshoot Packages. RRP: from £450. www.elizabethebsworth.zenfolio.com

Acido Gold Cow Hide Clutch Bag With Tassel. RRP: £55. www.hicksandbrown.com Cashmere Cable Glove. RRP: £39.95. www.schoffelcountry.com

Barker & Sloane 12 Bore Boost Mist Rebalancing Face Tonic. RRP: £35. www.barkerandsloane.co.uk

CHRISTMAS GIFT GUIDE

FIVE Eco-Friendly Gifts FOR HORSE LOVERS

here are lots of little steps you can take to make your Christmas more sustainable. Just being conscious of the impact of the gift you’re giving is a great place to start. So we’ve put together this guide to prove that ecogifting doesn’t have to mean rubbish presents… 1. Honest Riders Reusable Water Bottle Earth-inspired, marble-print bottle is triple insulated. The perfect gift for anyone trying to reduce single-use plastic. RRP: £29. 2. ‘No Scope No Hope’ Warmblood sweatshirt Made from sustainable 100% organic cotton. Plus £5 from the sale of every one goes to Pablos Horse Sanctuary. RRP: £46. 3. Photo shoot gift voucher Sophie’s unique dream-like style is sought after Worldwide! Shoots start from £100. www.sophielefevre photography.co.uk

The Portobello. RRP: £275. www.fairfaxandfavor.com

Vixen Cowl Neck. RRP: £49.99 www.equi boodle.co.uk

BY ZOE KIFF

4. The Alchemists Garden Horsecare These 100% natural products smell incredible AND come in biodegradable sugar cane bottles! RRP: from £8.95. 5. ‘Heels Down’ Exmoor Young Riders Sweatshirt Made from the perfect blend of organic cotton and recycled plastic bottles. RRP: £32. www.honestriders.co.uk

The Loxley Mini. RRP: £295. www.fairfaxandfavor.com

Aimee Skirt in Igloo. RRP: £110. www.timothy foxx.co.uk

Tenies Hat in Whisper White. RRP: £44.95. www.schoffelcountry.com

Hand Embroidered Scarf. RRP: £68. www.sepjordan.com Capriole Tall Riding Boot. RRP: £430. www.ariat.com/gb for stockists

Lightweight waterproof jacket. RRP: £180. www.aigle.com

WIN! WIN!

A HORSESHOE

Exclusive Sterling Silver and Rose Gold Snaffle Bracelet. RRP: £1000. www.hiho silver.co.uk

SUN WREATH

Ladies Ptarmigan Tweed Coat. RRP: £649.95. www.schoffelcountry.com

Catherine Jacket. RRP: £350. www.timothy foxx.co.uk

FROM HORSESHOE HEARTS WORTH £125!

Caralarga Mantarrya Necklace. RRP: £55. www.caralarga.com.mx

Amorita Clutch. RRP: £215. www.albionengland.co.uk

The Suffolk Fedora in Camel (Pheasant Feather Wrap). RRP: £95. www.hicksandbrown.com

Snaffle Bit Jewellery Collection. RRP: from £18.50. www.equetech.com

Rose gold pearl sparkle horseshoe earrings. RRP: £45. www.pegasusjewellery.net

British tweed skirts. RRP: from £115. www.vantage atelier.com

Created from 12 used horseshoes that are cleaned and polished by hand then welded together to create a unique, upcycled, decorative wreath. Perfect accent piece for wall hanging, on the mantlepiece or even the front door. Add your own decorative flair for a seasonal display piece all year round. www.horseshoehearts.co.uk To enter: Visit www.absolutehorsemagazine.com and click on the Competitions page. Entries open 1st November 2019 and close 30th November 2019.

CHRISTMAS GIFT GUIDE NEW SUSTAINABLE BAMBOO COUNTRY CLOTHING BRAND

The 5* Dreams Sweater. RRP: £60. www.huffequestrian.co.uk

Launched in Suffolk

ealising her dream of designing and selling her own sustainable country clothes line, firsttime entrepreneur Lynne Jardine has recently launched Ginger & Jardine from her home in Creeting St Peter, near Stowmarket. Aimed at the country pursuits market, Ginger & Jardine uniquely specialises in sustainable bamboo clothing that is not only comfortable and stylish, but also ethical, sustainable and mostly made in the UK. Frustrated by the lack of clothing designed for country pursuits that uses sustainable and comfortable fabrics, Lynne decided to fill the gap in the market herself. She was determined to create stylish, practical, quality clothing that does not cost the earth –

Roll neck tops. RRP: from £32.

either financially or literally. Ginger & Jardine’s initial range comprises roll neck tops and long sleeve T-shirts in various colours and prints, with polo shirts and long sleeve shirts due to be added for Spring and Summer 2020. Born, bred and still happily resident in Suffolk, Lynne previously worked in the Telecommunications sector as a Chartered Surveyor. With no professional experience in the clothing industry, Lynne commented: “Setting up my own clothing brand has been a steep but very rewarding and enjoyable learning curve. My initial visits to UK manufacturers were daunting, but everyone without exception has been very helpful and supportive. I’m passionate about keeping the operation within the UK as much as possible, having seen first-hand the impact of the decline in this industry.” All Ginger & Jardine clothing is currently available through the website. www.gingerandjardine.co.uk

Redwings Running Horse Scarf comes in 4 colours. Measures 180cm X 85cm and is made from polyester. RRP: £10. www.redwing.org.uk/shop

Caroline Nicholls Waterproof and Crushable Fedoras. RRP: £65. www.carolinenicholls.com Festival Star Bum Bag. RRP: £95. Southwold Canvas Tote. RRP: £195. www.annabelbrocks.com Covalliero Amina Coat. RRP: £98. www.zebra products.co.uk

Hospitality at The TheraPlate UK Liverpool International Horse Show makes a fantastic gift for friends and family. Located on the multi-levelled platform overlooking the Main Arena, each table enjoys the best views in the house. There really is no better way to experience the show that runs 28th-31st December. Email hospitality@liverpoolhorseshow.com

SAY GOODBYE TO

COLD FEET! Never suffer again!

Equitector’s Climate Control Technology Prevents cold feet even at minus 20c! Other features: • Hoof Proof toe protection • Waterproof leather • Stirrup foot balance system • Rot proof soles and uppers • Super comfortable • Long lasting quality

Any leg height and calf width Gaiters ladies’ and mens’, any calf width

Made in UK

MANUFACTURERS OF FINE RIDING BOOTS

www.equitector.com Telephone: 0208 090 4029

CHRISTMAS GIFT GUIDE Lana Socks. RRP: £8. www.mountain horse.se for stickists.

Zoe Breeches. RRP: £145. www.psofsweden.com

Equi Base Layer (Khaki): RRP £69. www.holland cooper.com Candy Stripe Fleece Leggings. RRP: £44.99. www.super xcountry.co.uk

Sorrento Padded Bodywarmer. RRP: £88. www.hv-polo.com for stockists.

Billie Jacket. RRP: £133. www.euro-star.de/en/ for stockists.

Apt Cavalier Performance Skin. RRP: £47.50. www.aptcavalier.com

INDEPENDENT JEWELLERS IN THE HEART OF Framlingham

n 1990 Sarah Cole opened the door to The Jewellery Studio in Framlingham, Suffolk. Sarah’s lifelong interest in horses and her successful career as a fine jeweller have now combined as she has made a range of equestrian jewellery. Attention to details is apparent in every piece, with each item created individually in her mews workshop. The converted building, once part of the Crown

Stables, now poignantly rings to the sound of the goldsmith’s tools, rather than the blacksmith’s hammer. All pieces are lovingly made in hallmarked silver, gold or a mix of both. www.sarahcolejewellery.co.uk Sarah is also proud to be a sponsor of Alice Hallows, a local young event rider, as she moves into her senior career.

Technical Stretch Riding Leggings. RRP: £40. www.aztecdiamond equestrian.com

Rainbow Browband. RRP: £77.44. www.albion england.co.uk

Lucie Mints - A blend of peppermint and the best English lucerne to make a healthy treat for your horse. In special edition Christmas gift packaging. RRP: £5.75/500g. A special edition Apple & Cinnamon flavour Christmas Brix. RRP: £3.50. www.simplesystem.co.uk

Ribbon Browband. RRP: £10. www.samberwillequestrian.co.uk

Haygain Hay Steamers. RRP: from £725. www.haygain.co.uk

KB Super Snaffle Bridle. RRP: from £263.83. www.albion england.co.uk

For e s r o H Golden Flexcite Grip Stirrup. RRP: £444. www.zebraproducts.co.uk

Equishine Plaiting Apron Pro. RRP: from £39.99. www.themanehub.co.uk

Tidy Tack Rooms storage bags. RRP: from £13. www.tidytackrooms.co.uk

Night Collection Saddle Pads. RRP £75. Night Collection Ear Bonnets. RRP: £37. www.backontrack.com The Jayne Webber Hunter/Cob Double Bridle. RRP: £135. www.totalimpact equestrian.co.uk

Equilibrium Products is supporting Redwings Horse Sanctuary by donating net proceeds from their Christmas Crunchits range! Crunchits are molasses free, low sugar treats with natural flavours of strawberry, beetroot, parsnip, carrot, banana, pea and spinach. www.equilibriumproducts.com

CHRISTMAS GIFT GUIDE Dancing Horses Christmas Decorations. RRP: £12. www.ladida-andover.com

Anna Thompson Art Cushions. RRP: from £59.95. www.annathompsonart.co.uk

e m o H For

NEW WEBSITE FOR Anvil Cottage Crafts

Bespoke Candle. RRP: £9. www.spana.org/shop

Tea Towel which features bespoke Sanctuary image created by Sue Podbery. RRP: £6.

Slate Blue Throw. RRP: £60. www.tomlane.co

Damson colouredRedwings 2020 Pocket Diary with a silver embossed Redwings logo. Contents are on white paper. RRP: £4. www.redwing.org.uk/shop

he team at Anvil Cottage Crafts have unveiled their new website and not only are the company’s artisan pieces available to buy on the site, but for the first time there is the option to hire a selection of items for weddings, parties and events. All pieces are handcrafted from new and used horseshoes in the forge on the banks of the river Great Ouse, close to Ely in Cambridgeshire, combining modern day engineering techniques with ancient craft. A must for horse lovers and equestrian enthusiasts, while also appealing to those looking to add some country cottage style to their home or event. Carol Palmer, Partner, Anvil Cottage Crafts, said, “The new site not only beautifully showcases our artisan items but also makes it easier for people to find what they need.” www.anvilcottagecrafts.co.uk

EQUESTRIAN PHOTOGRAPHER LAUNCHES UNIQUE Keepsake Product

aura of Laura Fiddaman Photography is thrilled to launch ‘Tails to Treasure’, a keepsake for all equestrians. In June Laura had to say goodbye to her horse of a lifetime, Rio, so she began looking for ways to remember him with some of his tail hair. “I wanted to create a special keepsake of my own and as a photographer, tying tail hair and beautiful imagery together just made sense,” she said. To create your own Tail to Treasure, all you need is a photo showcasing your horse’s tail, and an actual tail cutting. Every piece is carefully created by hand and the final frame is finished with glass to protect the colours of your photo, as well as keeping the tail safe. www.laurafiddamanphoto.com

RHEA ASKS...

I’M RHEA FREEMAN...I’M A PR, MARKETING AND SOCIAL MEDIA CONSULTANT AND COACH WITH A SPECIALISM IN EQUESTRIAN AND RURAL BUSINESS. I WORK WITH A NUMBER OF THE BEST BRANDS IN THE INDUSTRY AND MANY THAT YOU’LL SEE IN THESE PAGES...

ounds like one of those questions where the answer is obvious – doesn’t it? Followers, of course! But now go down another layer… WHY do you want to grow those followers… for what purpose? In October, I spoke at the Live Zone at Horse of the Year Show and this was one of the points I covered. The reason is simple; if we don’t know why we are using social media, we don’t know what kind of content we should share, we don’t know what counts as a success, and we might not be helping ourselves to achieve our goals. Stick with me here. Let’s say you’re a rider hoping to gain sponsorship from brands you love. Your content might vary massively to someone who is purely looking to gain rides and owners. And that content might vary massively to someone who is just doing it for fun. If you want to gain sponsorship, you really want to be tagging the brands you love and use. You want to be showing your followers more of these brands and products and why you love them. Use your social media as a showcase.

If your focus is all about rides and ownership, some of your content will be showing the ‘owner experience’ with you, your achievements, the level of care you give and maybe your facilities. If you just want to share your story you don’t need to stress about any of the above. By being clear on your goals you can start to make sure that posts you put out speak to or support these goals. Having that focus in mind can make it much easier to plan your content, schedule your week, batch your shoots, etc. I have this real thing at the moment about the ‘power of one’ – it’s also something I covered in my talk! If you as a rider want sponsorship you only need that ONE person who loves what you do and gets you. So please don’t be disheartened if your following grows slowly. You want quality always, and the quantity will come, and as you grow the correct way, one follower at a time, you know that you’re attracting the right people who get you and will help you support your big goal, because you’re attracting the right people.

WHAT WOULD YOU LIKE TO ‘GAIN’ FROM USING SOCIAL MEDIA? Visit www.rheafreemanpr.co.uk • Twitter (@rheafreeman) • Instagram (@rheafreemanpr) • Facebook (/RheaFreemanPR)

WIN! WIN!

A PAIR OF ARIES BOOTS & SOCKS FROM EG07!

The EGO7 Aries boots are an innovative modern design combined with high end style. Anatomical shape and a cutting-edge design are the foundation of EGO7 boots to ensure great freedom of movement, lightness and excellent sensitivity with the horse. These super stylish full grain leather tall riding boots with innovative E-tex panel have a slim fitted ankle for a contemporary look and two-layer elastic panel for comfortable stretch fit and a convenient YKK zipper. Other features include padded heel guard for comfort and safety, sleek adjustable spur rest and stitched toe cap. The leather foot bed benefits greatly from a double anti-shock insole and the boots are highly breathable and antibacterial. Every part of the boot is elegantly designed to be functional and comfortable. www.zebraproducts.co.uk

Available in Black in sizes 34-45. The EGO7 Aries boots are priced at around £285.

To enter: Visit www.absolutehorsemagazine.com and click on the Competitions page. Entries open 1st November 2019 and close 30th November 2019.

HEALTH & WELFARE testing. The All Seasons subscription service is a great cost effective way for horse owners to ensure they have this covered and any potentially harmful parasite challenges can be identified and dealt with.” Not only do All Seasons customers receive a specific plan for each horse with all the regular redworm, roundworm and tapeworm tests needed, but also access to any incidental tests that might be required, By Westgate Labs such as for sand, pinworm, lungworm or liver fluke plus ince Westgate Labs first programme in order to make the of the individual horse and the resistance tests to check for drug pioneered the idea of modern way to manage parasite parasite challenges they might resistance. All this plus exclusive providing postal worm control even simpler and more meet in their access to offers count services to horse attainable for busy horse environment. and prizes, owners, the aim has always owners. Unintentionally “If you are attending discounted been to make it as easy as “We also recognised that every lengthening this Your Horse Live at shop items, possible for people to use horse is different so provide a time between Stoneleigh Park, 8th- the backup of targeted worming. Westgate tailored programme for each testing or 10th November, then trusted customers reported, however, horse, with tests sent direct to treating could come and meet the independent that even with the best your door so there is no need to easily allow a team (Stand 104). We veterinary intentions, the gaps between guess which are the right parasite burden would be happy to approved testing would slip when parasites to target at the right to get out of discuss the best guidance via juggling all those other time of year, as Westgate does hand and parasite control for phone, email pressures of work and family all that for you!” said Katrina become a threat your horses and you or direct life and this was a cause of Pedlar from Westgate Labs. to horse health. too can take advantage message, worry, as we all want to make Consultant vet to Westgate “It’s hard to tell of all our 20th together with the right choices for our horses Labs, Carolyn Cummins MVB whether a horse anniversary discounts!” newsletters health. Phd MRCVS commented: has a worm with seasonal In Spring this year, Westgate “The intervals for testing are burden just by advice and Labs therefore launched the All based on the worm life cycles looking at it, so it’s incredibly news updates on social media, Seasons subscription we’re testing for, the relative risk important to keep up regular blogs and videos.

THE WESTGATE LABS SUBSCRIPTION PROGRAMME TAKES THE GUESSWORK OUT OF PARASITE CONTROL, WITH A TAILOR MADE PROGRAMME FOR EACH INDIVIDUAL HORSE, GIVING PEACE OF MIND FOR HORSE OWNERS

PROTECT

YOUR HORSE IN

All Seasons

SPECIAL

OFFER!

‘ALL SEASONS’ BENEFITS... • Tailored targeted worm control programme • Veterinary approved advice from qualified SQPs • Test and collection kits sent directly to your door SIGN UP TO THE • Results sent by email or SMS ALL SEASONS • Exclusive access to offers and prizes SUBSCRIPTION • 10% discount on all Tack Room Essentials shop items • Simple monthly subscription payments SERVICE IN NOVEMBER AND GET • Spread the costs of your parasite control programme ONE MONTH • Keep up to date with modern practices • All Seasons peace of mind

Free!

With subscriptions starting from £6.50 per calendar month for a total test control programme, customers have also enjoyed the ability to spread costs over the year, making it an affordable way to effectively manage parasite control. All Seasons is proving to fill a real need with horse owners, bringing peace of mind so customers can get on with enjoying their horses.

HOW IT WORKS... Sign up by choosing the right programme for your horse according to age, work, known health issues and let us know more about your individual horse, such as height, weight and grazing conditions. Westgate Labs then send, direct to your door, the right test and collection kit at the right time of year according to your horses individual needs. You take your horses sample and send back. Westgate Labs send you the results and provide advice on any treatment if needed. To celebrate twenty years of Westgate Labs helping thousands of horse owners and yard managers move to test based programmes, they are offering some great discounts and prize giveaways during the month of November. Sign up to the All Seasons subscription service in November and get one month free! All customers can get up to a 20% discount across all shop products! www.westgatelabs.co.uk

CASE STUDY: Gabby

Westgate Labs ‘All Seasons’ Subscriber Name: Gabby Saleh Age: 29-years-old Occupation: Registered Veterinary Nurse and just for fun ‘Insta-vlogger’ Location: North Norfolk Name of horses: Hamish and Hugo Type of ‘All Seasons’ Subscription: Adult Horse and High Risk Horse subscriptions

y love for horses started at the mere 18-months of age (or so I’m told!). My riding journey started at Millhouse Animal Sanctuary in Sheffield, aged 3-years-old. At the time my local riding school didn’t start childrens riding lessons until the age of five but I was desperate to learn, so I started helping out with chores at the Sanctuary and in return they let me ride. “I can only describe it as the best experience you could wish for as a young equestrian, due to the variety of horses coming regularly into the Sanctuary to be rehomed, I was never short of a horse to ride. It was a fantastic experience and throughout my years there I rode anything and everything, from wizzy ponies to gentle giants, which certainly prepared me for horse ownership. “I then took ponies on loan from the Sanctuary and continued to have riding lessons until we moved to Norfolk. It was 2002 and my

parents bought me my first official horse, a 13.3hh coloured cob called Ben. Little did I know back then that this would be the start of my coloured cob obsession! “I bought Hugo in July last year at the age of four, and in 2018 I began my instagram account @hamishandhugo and honestly I started it because I was worried I was beginning to bore my friends with the constant photos of my horses! Now it has become part of my daily life, documenting the trials and tribulations of training a young horse and showing a realistic account of horse ownership. I have a real passion for horse welfare and have become a bit of a geek when it comes to finding and reviewing the best products on the market to look after two coloured cobs (which I think we can all agree is a full time job in itself not to mention all that hair!). I can normally be found on Instagram stories where I daily vlog and absolutely love sharing our journey with my followers. “I have been a

subscriber to the Westgate Labs All Seasons subscription service since April 2019 and I wish there had been a service like this even earlier. I remember being sat flicking through Facebook, thinking about how I needed to order worm egg count kits when the new service popped up on my newsfeed - it was a nobrainer for me and I signed up that evening! As a veterinary nurse working in a small Continued overleaf...

HEALTH & WELFARE content and information provided, instantly making life animal practice, I love the fact simpler! that services such as “The High Risk Horse Plan preventive health plans are so includes: six worm egg counts, readily available making two Equisal saliva test and one regular treatments easy and resistance test but may also affordable for clients and so it include pinworm, lungworm, was welcome news to me that liver fluke and sand test if such a service was now required. available for the equestrian “The Adult Horse Plan includes: community! three worm egg counts, two “I have two horses that are at Equisal saliva test and one opposite ends of the age resistance test but again other spectrum so I have the adult tests are also available if horse plan and the high risk required. horse plan, paying a monthly “You collect your samples and direct debit fee and send them off to Westgate Labs. everything I need is sent After the tests have been straight to my door. When I received at the Lab, the results first received the packs I was are sent out to the customer in very impressed with the a variety of ways, depending on Continued from previous page...

HEALTHY ADULT HORSE PLAN: Hugo

Age: 5-years-old Colour: Skewbald Sex: Gelding Height: 14.2hh Breed: Traditional Cob Hugo was the horse I never knew I needed and certainly was not the next horse I was intending to buy! After loosing my horse of a lifetime Monty, I was looking for an older, experienced happy hacker. I have only had him a year so our achievement to date is just the partnership we have built but I feel he would excel in the show ring once we have improved on the schooling side of things. At present we are hacking out 4-5 times a week to improve our fitness and to keep building his confidence levels. His strengths are that he is the ultimate tryer and his weaknesses are that he is always thinking about his next meal and will try to grab a cheeky snack whenever he can!

what you opt for - in my case it was email. The website is also great, containing detailed information as well as all your horse’s past results. “The ‘All Seasons’ subscription service has been a life saver for me, as an equestrian I think we are always busy and on the go, which makes simple things like ordering your worm egg count kits difficult to remember! It has benefitted my horses health because I now have a strict worming schedule where I make sure I am testing samples and seeing the results before worming them - thus preventing ‘overworming’ and it keeps me on track to ensure their health is not at risk from pesky parasites.

“I would absolutely recommend this service as I have never been so up to date with my worming programme and the results are always sent out very quickly which means I can also get the horses treated quickly (If needed). Horses are an expensive hobby so this provides a way to spread the costs throughout the year and its great value for money! “Subscriptions services like the all seasons from Westgate Labs are the future and I would encourage you to have a look at what they can offer you and your horse to get you on your ideal worming schedule!”

HIGH RISK HORSE PLAN: Hamish

Age: 29-years-old Colour: Piebald Sex: Gelding

Height: 14.1hh Breed: Traditional Cob

Hamish is your ultimate confidence giver and in my eyes the perfect pony! He dabbled in local shows in his younger years and now is pretty much retired Hamish (pictured on the left) with Gabby and Hugo apart from the odd plod around the North Norfolk countryside. He is the ideal companion for Hugo, always keeping him in check and teaching him.

NOMINATIONS ARE OPEN: PETPLAN AND ADCH CHARITY AWARDS

etplan is delighted to announce that nominations are now open for the 2020 Petplan & ADCH Charity Awards, as Petplan will once again be recognising the remarkable work carried out by some of the best charity professionals in the country. The Petplan and ADCH Animal Charity Awards give you the opportunity to recognise the hard work and dedication of charities and say, â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;thank you.â&#x20AC;&#x2122; Nominations close at midnight on 16th January 2020. To nominate an animal charity or individual head to www.petplan.co.uk/about-petplan/charities/awards/ In addition to the Charity Awards the Petplan Veterinary Awards recognise the fantastic work that goes on in veterinary practices across the UK. If you think your veterinary practice or someone in the practice team deserves to win nominate now at: www.petplan.co.uk/about-petplan/vets/awards/

HEALTH & WELFARE

REDWINGS CELEBRATES: ONE YEAR SINCE LAUNCH OF STRANGLES INITIATIVE

ne year on, an initiative to inspire more people to speak out on Strangles and take proactive steps to protect their horses has already seen over 710 horse owners and 145 yard managers across the UK pledge their support! Last November, Redwings Horse Sanctuary launched an online ‘Pledge’ as part of its award-winning Stamp Out Strangles campaign, urging horse owners and yard managers to make a voluntary commitment to champion biosecurity practices, which has already attracted support from yards including Hartpury University & Hartpury College and Richmond Equestrian Centre. Andie Vilela, Campaigns Manager at Redwings, said: “We’re thrilled with the reaction the Pledge has attracted this year because we know that people are more likely to make positive, proactive changes if they’ve made a commitment to do so. “It’s also encouraged more

yards and horse owners to speak out about their experiences of Strangles and the stigma that sadly still exists around this disease, showing that there is a clear appetite for attitudes to change. “The more people continue to share that they have pledged, the more we can nudge standards up so that poor hygiene facilities, absent biosecurity protocols - or even keeping quiet about an outbreak - will all be consigned to the history books. We want to make changes before an outbreak happens!” The Pledge is part of the Stamp Out Strangles online hub - which also launched a year ago - full of practical information, advice and resources for yard managers and horse owners, as well as a dedicated section for vets and other equine professionals. To find out more and to take the Pledge, head to www.redwings.org.uk/ strangles

WEIGHT MANAGEMENT KEY TO LAMINITIS CONTROL: SAY VETS AT BEVA CONGRESS

eterinary experts at BEVA congress stressed that weight loss, diet and management changes to thwart obesity, are the best weapons in the battle to prevent laminitis. Laminitis is one of the most common conditions treated by equine vets but, despite continuing research much about the condition, including exact links with endocrinopathic disease, remains unclear. At BEVA Congress recently David Rendle, Equine Internal Medicine Specialist at Rainbow Equine Hospital, Andrew Van Eps from the University of Pennsylvania and Nicky Jarvis of Redwings Horse Sanctuary discussed the latest knowledge on laminitis including causes, diagnosis, management and prevention. Around 90% of laminitis cases have endocrinopathic laminitis, “which is the same as pasture associated laminitis,” explained David Rendle. This involves

The past few months have seen Primrose and Teddy introduced to a new groom, BillieJo Roby.

either equine metabolic syndrome (EMS) or pituitary pars intermedia dysfunction (PPID), but while greater understanding of EMS and PPID has helped in preventing laminitis, there is still much that remains unknown. Nicky Jarvis explained the grave negative impact obesity has on horse health. “The horse isn’t just a little bit chunky it actually has ‘ill health’ because of that amount of fat,” she said. She went on to explain that when a horse is classified with a body condition score of 5 out of 5 approximately 40% of its bodyweight on a weighbridge is fat, equating to 240kg of fat for a 600kg. “Owners love to say ‘but he’s always been like this and he’s never had laminitis before’ so it can be incredibly hard work to change the mindsets.” Nicky explained her approach to weight loss, which aims at dropping 0.5 to 1% of the horse’s current bodyweight per

LIVER FLUKE LINKED TO LIVER DISEASE IN UK HORSES

Photo: Redwings

week by feeding a daily ration (dry matter) equivalent to 1.5% of bodyweight. Appreciating that weight loss on the field can be difficult as intake can’t be quantified, she outlined practical management tactics such as strip grazing, grazing muzzles, track systems, shared grazing with sheep or pregrazing with horses who are in healthy condition. She emphasised the advantages of forage analysis to ensure hay is of a low water soluble carbohydrate content (10 12%) and the benefits of soaking it. For animals resistant to weight loss, despite a controlled diet, she suggested the careful introduction of good quality barley straw as a partial

forage alternative for horses with good teeth, at up to 40% of the ration. The long term approach, she advised, “is rather than crash diets, either in the summer or once they have got laminitis, is to encourage people to realise that it’s a natural thing for horses to lose weight over winter. And, if we can get them to keep those rugs off and persuade them not to go to their local shop and buy supplementary feeds and grains just because they feel cold, we wouldn’t have so many problems during the summer months.” www.beva.org.uk/ResourcesFor-Owners

ere we catch up with Primrose and her foal, Teddy, who are being supported by Alltech, whilst they are in the care of World Horse Welfare. Primrose was rescued from an abandoned herd, suffering from severe photosensitivity so it was vital throughout summer that she had additional protection. She had Filterbac cream applied to her nose and happily wore a fly mask, which has worked perfectly and Primrose’s skin has done extremely well. Said Billie-Jo: “Keeping Primrose out of the direct sun has definitely been the best way to keep her comfortable.” Teddy is turning into a very handsome boy and Billie-Jo describes him as a bold, self-assured character who picks up new skills very quickly. www.lifeforcehorse.co.uk

harmful parasite that costs the UK cattle and sheep industry an estimated £300 million per year may also be an under recognised cause of liver disease in horses, a study by the University of Liverpool has found. Liver fluke is a common cause of disease in cattle and sheep but can also infect other grazing animals, including horses. Horses frequently graze the same pastures as sheep and cattle but are thought to be relatively resistant to liver fluke infection. However, there is evidence that horses can be adversely affected by liver fluke, with clinical signs including poor performance, fatigue, diarrhoea, poor appetite and jaundice. At the same time, liver disease is common in horses and the cause can often be difficult to find. These factors together led to a concern that liver fluke in horses may be responsible for some cases of undiagnosed equine liver disease. In the first study of its kind, a research team led by veterinary parasitologist Professor Diana Williams at the Institute of Infection and Global Health set out to determine the prevalence of liver fluke infection in the general horse population. Professor Williams said: “It is really important to test horses with liver disease to rule out liver fluke because infection can cause a range of non-specific clinical signs. Similarly, it is very important to test horses if liver fluke infection is suspected, so horses are not treated needlessly. “We normally recommend that fields where horses graze are cograzed by sheep or cattle as this is a very effective way to control gut worms, but our research shows that sheep can be a source of liver fluke infection for horses, so routine testing of horses that have grazed on pasture used for sheep is good practice, especially in areas of high fluke risk.”

<<<<< The study was funded by the Animal Welfare Foundation (AWF) and is published in the Equine Veterinary Journal.

The sculpture of Primrose that was painted by YouTube sensation, This Esme, is now up for auction! To place a bid visit http://bit.ly/2KZV8tA Auction closes on 20th November 2019.

HEALTH & WELFARE

My Focus On... THE POLL

he horse has 700 muscles, which, in comparison to a human being having 300, is quite impressive! Each individual muscle is part of a larger, highly integrated network which works together to achieve movement. This highlights the importance of treating the horse as a whole. As a result of this interconnectedness, the primary area of concern is often different to the presenting problem. For example, the Rectus Capitis muscle group (or the ‘poll’), is an extremely common site for causing an array of performance issues and discomfort in other areas of the body. The poll is located on either side of the horse’s neck immediately behind the ears. These muscles attach to the base of the skull and create motions such as flexing the head downwards towards the chest.

Symptoms Although this muscle group may be small, it is key to the horse’s freedom and ease of movement. As an equine sports therapist I often expect to find some level of tenderness in this region. Therefore, troubles with movement can be a strong indicator of there being an issue in the poll region, such as:

• Heaviness in one rein compared to the other • Resistance in bending a particular way • Lack of power (e.g. struggling to come through from behind and stepping under themselves) • Difficulty working in a consistent, light contact • Discomfort shown when the area is palpated • Difficulty ‘bridling up’ • ‘Poll tilt’ (head tilts to one side during exercise)

Causes A few causes for soreness and restrictions in the poll region include: • Ill-fitting bridles • Highly hung hay nets • Riding aids (draw and side reins) • Dental issues Thus, there are some fairly simple changes which can be made to help remedy any discomfort being caused in the poll area. For example, consult with your dentist or vet to see if there are any dental issues, if possible try hanging your hay nets a little lower and make sure that your way of training and riding are up to scratch (maybe seek help from a good trainer). Massage! There are two techniques you can use to release tension in the poll. The first is a

compression technique: Hook your fingers over your horse’s mane right behind their ears and use the base of your hand to press into the muscle. Release and repeat up and down the neck a few times. This action increases blood flow and separates the muscle fibres which become very close together when the muscle is tight. The muscle should soften as a result. The second is a technique using direct pressure: Massage

By Rose Kimberley BSc Equine Sports Therapist EEBW

the area gently with the base of your hand, and use the tip of your fingers to apply pressure directly to the poll area behind the ears. The pressure is interpreted by the horse’s brain as discomfort and sends more blood to the area to help soften it. Do this for no more than 15 seconds and repeat on the opposite side.

Rose Kimberley is a trained Equine Sports Therapist and specifically trained in the musculo-skeletal system. Rose treats the muscles of the horse to enable improved movement achieving greater range of motion. Rose is currently building up her client base, working evening and weekend visits, covering Suffolk and surrounding areas. Tel: 07773 694931 www.rosekimberley. wixsite.com

& CBD OIL:

Photo: MannersMedia

NEWS MORE

HORSEDIALOG SPONSORS: ROS CANTER

oetis Inc. has announced that their media channel HorseDialog is proud sponsor of World Equestrian Games Gold Medallist Ros Canter. The sponsorship centres around Ros presenting an exciting series of practical videos, sharing her tips and advice on riding and horse care. The short informative clips, to be rolled out on social media over the next couple of months, include Ros presenting her top tips and advice on flatwork and jumping as well as horse health and management. Some of Ros’s stunning equine stars of the future are included in some of the clips too. www.horsedialog.co.uk

What’s all the fuss? HEALTH AND WELLNESS COACH SAMANTHA HARDINGHAM IS QUALIFIED TO HELP HER CLIENTS BUILD A LEAN, STRONG, HEALTHY BODY AND MIND THROUGH BOTH EXERCISE AND NUTRITION. RUNNING ONLINE COMMUNITY GROUPS SUCH AS ‘THE BODY MIND COACH GROUP’, AS WELL AS HER WEEKLY BOOT CAMPS, SPORTS MASSAGE, AND ONE-TO-ONE TRAINING/NUTRITION SESSIONS, SAMANTHA EDUCATES, TRAINS AND TEACHES HER MEMBERS TO FULFIL THEIR HEALTH AND FITNESS POTENTIAL BY OFFERING DAILY INSPIRATION, MOTIVATION AND SUPPORT TO ALL. BD oil is fast becoming the new ‘super’ product in the health and fitness world and marijuana has been used to treat pain as far back as 2900BC. There’s currently limited research but some scientific studies have confirmed that it may ease symptoms of ailments like chronic pain and anxiety. What is it CBD oil exactly? It’s one of over 100 chemical compounds known as cannabinoids found in the cannabis or marijuana plant Cannabis Sativa. Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) is the main psychoactive cannabinoid found in cannabis which causes the sensation of getting ‘high’ that’s associated with marijuana. CBD however unlike THC is not psychoactive. It’s made by extracting CBD from the cannabis plant, then

diluting it with a carrier oil, usually hemp or coconut oil. How does it work with the body? The body produces endocannabinoids, which are neurotransmitters that bind to cannabinoid receptors in your nervous system and studies have shown that CBD may help reduce chronic pain by impacting endocannabinoid receptor activity, reducing inflammation and interacting with neurotransmitters according to the Journal of Pain Research. Equally CBD’s ability to act on the brain receptors for serotonin, a neurotransmitter that regulates mood and social behaviour have shown that CBD oil has antidepressant-like effects on the brain and can reduce anxiety. One scientific study has looked at the effects of CBD and THC in cancer patients who didn’t experience relief from their

medication. Those who were treated with an extract containing both compounds found they had a significant reduction in pain compared to those who received only THC extract. More research is needed but CBD oil promises to be a versatile option which could potentially help not only chronic pain and anxiety but seizures, epilepsy, acne, type 1 diabetes and cancer. To benefit from Samantha’s health and wellness advice: www.facebook.com/ ItsTheBodyMindCoach/ www.instagram.com/ samanthahardingham

HEALTH & WELFARE: FIRST AID Kate and Kenco heading out for their first hack following the accident

Rider True Story

FREAK ACCIDENT

RESULTS IN INJURY

any distress to the horse. Kenco was placed on box rest for four weeks to limit his movement, hopefully resulting in the wound being held hen Kate Ledger before finally being secured in together before being allowed went to bring her place with Equiwrap bandages. out in a small paddock. horse Kenco in from For the first two weeks following Kate, who works for the NHS as the field a freak accident the injury the vet came out a Project Support Officer, was resulted in a nasty injury to his every day to clean and re-dress really pleased with his progress front leg. the wound, which was then and how effective all the As Kate was about to put Kenco’s reduced to twice a week. Robinson Animal Healthcare headcollar on, he was too eager Once the stitches were removed products were. to get in for his tea and pushed the vet recommended Vetalintex Said Kate: “I was really pleased his way through the gate and wound hydrogel to help keep with the treatment that Kenco fell onto the concrete. The the wound moist, which aids received from Ridings Equine impact caused him to rip the healing. The Activate dressing Vets and the Robinson Animal skin from the front of his leg was then replaced with Skintact Healthcare products certainly leaving a gaping wound. low adherent dressing which is helped. The vet supplied some In shock, Kate immediately rang easily removed without causing of the products and I found the vet who came out straight everything else that I needed on way to attend to 16-year-old, Four days after the the Robinson Animal Healthcare accident, the wound Kenco. website. had started to heal. After assessing the wound the “I have used Vetalintex wound vet gave it a thorough clean, hydrogel for years having been before it was stitched and introduced to it by my first vet, bandaged. The wound was then so it has been in my first aid kit dressed using Activate Carbon ever since.” dressing which helps cleanse The pair enjoy infected wounds and promotes participating in pleasure rapid wound closure. Veterinary rides and hope to Gamgee was then applied over venture out to a dressage the dressing to help protect the competition in the future, now wound from further trauma, Kenco is fully recovered.

UESTION: My horse recently developed a hoof abscess; the lameness came on suddenly, with no warning. What causes an abscess to develop and are some horses more susceptible than others?

NSWER: Lameness that comes on suddenly is more often than not caused by an abscess and most horses will suffer from this condition at some point in their life. Thankfully, with swift treatment the horse usually recovers pretty quickly. An abscess is a cavity containing pus, which is a collection of dead cells, bacteria, and other debris resulting from an infection. As the amount of pus increases in an abscess, it becomes painful as the hoof continually bears weight and is unable to swell. The most common cause is a penetration injury to the hoof,

FACTS ABOUT

Animalintex

Animalintex retails at around £5.50.

Q&A READER

Animalintex Hoof Treatment is suitable for rapid treatment of hoof conditions, especially abscesses, and is the only VMD licensed multi-layered absorbent poultice available in the UK.

which provides an entry point for bacteria to reach deep into the hoof structure and allow infection to spread, such as a nail from a loose shoe. As it can take up to two weeks for the bacteria to spread, resulting in the pus filled abscess, identifying the initial cause can be difficult. Infection tracking up the white

rguably the most versatile product in your first aid kit, Animalintex has many uses and is approved for use as a medicinal product on horses. When used as a hot poultice it can be used to treat foot abscesses and infected wounds, or can be used cold to treat bruising, capped elbow, capped hock, sore shins, sprains, strains and splints. • It contains two active ingredients, boric acid, to kill infection and promote faster healing and tragacanth, a natural poulticing agent that draws out dirt and infection when activated by water, helping to reduce inflammation. • The low adherent skin contact layer helps prevent further trauma to the wound when removing the dressing. • The layer of cotton wool absorbs pus, holding it away from the body, whilst providing protection and warmth to the infected area. • A cushioned protective layer protects the wound against external knocks and bumps. • The plastic backing keeps out external contamination, whilst keeping in moisture and warmth for faster healing.

line is another common cause of a hoof abscess. The white line is the border where the hoof wall meets the sole, and this can become damaged and softened, allowing dirt and bacteria into the inner hoof. Weather conditions and poor stable management can also predispose a horse to a hoof abscess, as standing in wet conditions for too long can soften the hoof and is a prime breeding ground for bacteria to thrive. Equally, dry weather can result in the hoof becoming brittle, leading to cracks and the creation of additional entry points for bacteria. The farrier is your greatest ally in the fight against abscesses so make sure your

horse is seen every six to eight weeks. Unfortunately, some horses seem to be more susceptible than others, for example those with weak feet or who have had laminitis. www.robinsonanimal healthcare.com

HEALTH & WELFARE: WINTER CARE

Haygain asks...

RUGGING FOR WINTER: IS IT SO NECESSARY?

s winter approaches horse owners will be digging out rugs ready to keep their charges warm as temperatures drop. At the same time, those changes in day length will have triggered the horse’s body to start growing a longer, thicker coat with more oil to help keep it warm and dry in cold and wet weather. Horses have a remarkably wide thermoneutral zone, which is the breadth of temperatures in which they will feel comfortable. While their core temperature is 38°C, it’s only when air temperatures exceed 25°C or drop below 0°C that they will experience physical discomfort. Horses can tolerate a wider range of temperature than humans can thanks to thermoregulation, which is the physical and anatomical processes that help them maintain their body temperature. These include the lifting of their coat using pile erector muscles to trap warm air next to the skin and the generation of heat from digesting feed, in particularly the long stems in forage.

Given that horses have evolved to trickle feed for seventeen hours a day, the heat from forage is incredibly important to keep them warm in winter. If a horse does get cold, their body will divert blood flow to their internal organs, meaning extremities such as their ears might feel cold to touch. That’s normal for a horse in winter and doesn’t mean that they need to wear extra rugs. If you want to find out how warm a horse is, place a hand in their ‘armpit’ or behind their withers. It should go without saying that if they are sweaty, they need fewer rugs! If horses have evolved to stay comfortable in everything bar extreme weather conditions, why do we rug horses as soon as there’s a nip in the air when they are turned out in the morning? We anthropomorphise horses and love seeing them wrapped in rugs when we’re feeling cold, but over-rugging has a negative impact on them. Rugging too early will inhibit the growth of a protective winter coat and may stop the pile erector muscles from functioning properly. Excess energy from food that doesn’t get used heating or for

movement will be laid down as fat. Horses have evolved to lose condition during winter so that they are less susceptible to conditions caused by getting fat on the richer grass in spring, therefore heading out of winter overweight isn’t ideal. If you can, minimise the rugs you use this winter and feed ad lib forage instead. It’s a great way to combat vices, stave off stomach ulcers and keep horses warm naturally. There’s just one thing to note if you do feed more forage this winter. Even good quality hay can contain dust, bacteria and spores which trigger respiratory disease in horses, so it’s important to manage exposure to them. Recent research found 88% of the horses examined were suffering from inflammatory airway disease (IAD), even though many showed no outward sign. Steaming hay with a Haygain Steamer reduces the risk of a horse developing an IAD by 66% and has the added benefit of making hay far more palatable for horses. www.haygain.co.uk

Product News... ImmuBoost from the makers of No Bute, is a liquid supplement of Echinacea, a herb known for its powers on the immune system especially the respiratory system. An ideal supplement for horses (especially older ones) throughout the winter months. Available in 1lt, 2lt and 4lt bottles. RRP: from £18.90. www.animal-health.co.uk

Sarc-Ex is an advanced formula providing nutritional support for immune systems, helping maintain bodily structure and function. Helps the body defend itself and aids normal repair. Can be fed all year for ongoing support. RRP: from £32.39. www.globalherbs.co.uk

WIN! WIN!

UESTION: ‘My horse has to spend more time than I would like in the stable during winter, how can I ensure this doesn’t impact on his digestive system?’ NSWER: As domesticated animals, horses live very different lives to how they would out in the wild; this is especially true during the winter months when they are stabled for long periods. Horses evolved to leisurely graze for up to seventeen hours a day, while roaming across large areas of land that would provide a diet of different grasses, herbs and vegetation. When we stable our horses, sometimes for our own convenience or due to the fact that most horse owners only have a limited number of acres, this places them in an unnatural environment that can have a negative impact on their digestive health. During time in the stable, the horse often goes long periods without any fibre intake. If there is insufficient fibre reaching the hindgut, this delicate microbial ecosystem can be upset, resulting in digestive disturbances, such as acidosis (mainly from excess lactic acid) and colic. For this reason it is important to feed adlib forage, this also satisfies the horse’s natural desire to chew, helping to relive boredom and stress

ONE OF SIX 2KG TUBS OF TURMERAID GOLDEN JOINT SUPPORT!

as a result of being confined and kept away from their field mates. Limiting stress is also a major factor in ensuring good digestive health so try to ensure that your horse gets some time out of the stable every day to stretch his legs and interact with other horses. If your horse requires concentrate feed to maintain weight or meet his energy requirements for his workload, split his rations into several small meals across the day. By supplementing the diet with yeast cultures you can help reduce hindgut acidity, creating optimum conditions for the beneficial bacteria to flourish, thereby improving digestion, as well as nutrient absorption and buffering against digestive upset. www.lifeforcehorse.co.uk

Foran Equine Honey +C - Specially blended palatable syrup of honey and herbal airway soothers fortified with vitamin C to support a healthy immune system and aid respiratory health. RRP: £19.45/1ltr. www.foranequine.com

TurmerAid is carefully formulated to optimise the bio-availability of key functional ingredients which include turmeric (5.1% curcumin), linseed oil, black pepper, apple cider vinegar and yucca. Ideal for use over winter when many horses require additional support in the cold weather, TurmerAid helps to maintain healthy joints and support the body’s natural inflammation process. Also aids digestion and promotes a healthy skin and coat. Instantly recognisable in its bright orange tub, which is fully recyclable, TurmerAid is ideal for use over the winter months when many horses and ponies require additional support during the cold and damp weather. The only pelleted turmeric supplement on the market, TurmerAid remains effective as the ingredients are evenly distributed in each pellet and are only released when the horse bites into them. There is no risk of individual ingredients dissipating inside the tub over time and the horse subsequently receiving an unbalanced measure. www.goldenpastecompany.com

RRP: £18.99/ 2kg tub.

To enter: Visit www.absolutehorsemagazine.com and click on the Competitions page. Entries open 1st November 2019 and close 30th November 2019.

HEALTH & WELFARE: WINTER CARE Product News... RRP: from £10.40

Winter Wash is a Tea Tree based non-rinse shampoo in a handy spray bottle. So instead of soaking your horse after exercise, simply spray and rub away the sweat, then you can rug them up quicker post exercise. RRP: £10.25. www.animal-health.co.uk

Leg Wash - this is a thick, clear Tea Tree shampoo, perfect for use on the legs in the wetter and muddy months. Tea Tree is antibacterial and antifungal making it a perfect shampoo all year round, but especially in the winter months. Available in 500ml and 2.5lt containers.

Fresh Frog is a Tea Tree oil that you brush around the sole and frog. Tea Tree has antibacterial, antifungal and antiseptic properties making it ideal for use in areas where bacteria and fungal infections can thrive. Available in 500ml, 1lt and 2.5lt bottles. RRP: from £8.30. www.animal-health.co.uk

New Improved formula Cushins Pellets are formulated to provide significant nutritional support for the pituitary gland, insulin regulation, gut health and hoof health. Cushins Pellets are suitable for all horses and ponies, and may be fed alone, or added to a small fibre feed. RRP: £35.99/1kg. www.equine-america.co.uk

Botanica helps to sooth, repair and protect damaged skin, for rapid recovery. Firstly, wash the affected area using Botanica Cleansing Wash. This natural herbal wash is designed to clean, purify and sooth the skin and contains a unique combination of natural herbal ingredients. Next, apply Botanica Natural Herbal Cream. Contains Tea Tree along with soothing Aloe Vera, Comfrey and Lavender which all help to promote rapid healing and maintain healthy skin. www.botanica.ie

Cortaflex HA Regular is an affordable joint supplement that is easily mixed into your horse’s feed. Fortified with Collagen, Hyaluronic Acid, Silicon and MSM. RRP: £94.99/5lt. Cortaflex HA Super Fenn has been especially formulated to provide optimum joint support for performance, racing and competition horses, or older horses with significant levels of wear and tear. RRP: from £60.99/1lt. www.equineamerica.co.uk

New, improved Pro-Pell Plus – with an energy dense glucose-fructose complex to ensure Pro-Pell plus is appetising and palatable. ProPell Plus is a daily tonic, designed to provide vital micronutrients which are important in key areas for optimum health and performance. RRP: from £14.25/1lt. www.equine-america.co.uk Bigeloil Quilted Poultice Leg Wraps provide a quick and easy alternative to traditional clay, whilst providing the same cooling and soothing benefits. Using kaolin clay powder and Epsom salts, the wraps are activated when immersed in water. RRP: £25.81/(8 wraps). www.absorbine.co.uk

Hooflex Frog & Sole Care helps soothe the hoof and eliminates odours caused by bacteria and fungi. The liquid formula promotes normal hoof health without killing live tissues. RRP: £15. Hooflex Original Liquid Conditioner contains nine beneficial ingredients to help maintain the pliability of the entire hoof by providing conditioners necessary for proper moisture balance. Keeps the frog, sole, heel, and coronary band flexible, healthy and resistant to cracking or infection. RRP: £18. www.absorbine.co.uk

StableZone is a antibacterial powder for use under the bedding in stables, lorries, etc. It is highly absorbent, which in turn helps to keep bedding drier for longer. Simply sprinkle under the bedding all over, or in specific areas that your horse urinates, then place bedding over the top. Available in a 5kg resealable bucket or in 25kg bag. RRP: from £25. www.animal-health.co.uk

OUT OF WORK MOUSERS: SEEKING EMPLOYMENT IN STABLES

table owners can benefit from the ultimate in rodent control by adopting a feral cat from Cats Protection. The UK’s largest cat charity is always looking for new outdoor homes for feral cats – those which were never properly socialised as kittens and cannot be homed in a domestic setting. Happier to live outdoors, feral cats are highly effective at deterring rodents in stables. Cats Protection's Events Manager Emma Osborne said, “Keeping feral cats is an exceptionally efficient way to control rodents. The service offered by feral cats is 100% organic and environmentally-friendly.” www.cats.org.uk

MIN. DEL. JUST 25 BALES THROUGHOUT EAST ANGLIA

NUTRITION as too much starch can cause metabolic problems such as tying up or laminitis so should typically be reduced by at least half on non-hunting days.

ADVICE FOR

FEEDING

T h e H u nt er L

By Deborah Lucas MSc.Eq.S.,CBiol., MRIB (Consultant Nutritionist to HorseHage)

ike all horses, hunters should receive a foragebased diet to ensure digestive health and wellbeing. Forage may be pasture, or preserved grass as hay or haylage, and provides most of the calories (energy) and protein needed to maintain condition and perform well on hunting days. Once hunters are clipped and stabled, it’s vital to select the best quality preserved forage. There are two main considerations when choosing forage: Nutrient levels – Later cuts provide higher fibre and lower energy, but usually enough for most hunters, enabling ad lib feeding, to help reduce the likelihood of ulcers in stabled horses. Hygiene - Stabled horses experience constant respiratory challenges from dust and fungal spores, causing coughing and poor performance. The natural fermentation process in haylage prevents the development of spores. For example, High Fibre HorseHage or Timothy

HorseHage will typically provide suitable nutrient levels for most hunters and has a negligible level of fungal spores.

Like all feeds, introduce forage gradually to ensure the gut microbiome (the billions of microbes which digest fibre in the horse’s gut) is not disrupted. Forage not only provides vital nutrients, but as the microbes digest the fibre, they produce heat, to help keep hunters warm from the inside! Workload, breed, age, weather conditions, etc, will all affect how much forage is required by individual horses.

Additional Feeds Forage alone may not provide enough nutrients to maintain weight and performance. There are several ways to provide more calories: Fibre feeds – Fibre-based feeds such as Mollichaff Condition Complete, containing various combinations of dried grass, alfalfa and straw will provide extra calories, and often other useful nutrients as well. Molassed or unmolassed sugar

beet pulp is an excellent source of fibre-based calories and usually needs soaking before feeding. Oil - Pure vegetable oils are very energy-dense and can be added daily to feeds. Cereal based feeds – Starchy cereals provide concentrated energy. They are combined in mixes or cubes, with added protein, minerals and vitamins. They should be introduced carefully and not overfed, especially on non-hunting days,

Added Extras Minerals and vitamins During drying, preserved forage loses vitamins, although haylage retains higher levels than hay. So hunters on a forage diet need added minerals and vitamins. They are provided in coarse mixes, cubes or complete feeds, if fed at the recommended intake or should be added via a broad spectrum supplement or pelleted ‘balancer’ if the diet is based on forage or chaffs that are not ‘complete’. Electrolytes - Electrolytes lost in sweat from a clipped hunter can be significant but not obvious. Major electrolytes lost in sweat are sodium, potassium, chloride. On a forage diet, hunters receive enough potassium, but need extra sodium and chloride. Continued overleaf...

NUTRITION Continued from previous page

This is easily replaced with 15 - 40g (based upon size and workload) table salt per day, topped up with a proprietary electrolyte supplement after hunting. Replacing lost electrolytes helps maintain hydration and performance over a long season. Joint Supplements - Hunting can result in wear and tear on joints and muscles, and using a joint supplement (which often also contain plant-based antioxidants and antiinflammatories) may help ensure a long, active hunting career.

After Hunting Following the usual checks for injuries and when the horse is settled, normal forage should be offered, with free access to fresh water. A small feed, but containing the usual ingredients, with the extra salt/electrolytes should then be offered. If the horse has not already started drinking, adding a little warm water to this feed encourages fluid intake. If bran is added to a post-hunting feed, do add a little bran daily, not just after hunting, to ensure gut microbes are not disrupted by a ‘new’ feed. Ideally, after a three to four hour rest, another small feed of the usual ingredients should be offered, along with any required forage top-up when final evening checks are made. On non-hunting days ensure that the extra energy feeds, especially cereal-based feeds, are reduced by at least a half, to prevent metabolic disturbances. If the horse is losing weight during the season, increase the digestible fibre and oil-based feeds on the non-hunting days, to provide non-starch calories. www.horsehage.co.uk

DAISY’S

Herbal Answers

CHAMPERENE BESPOKE HORSE HERBAL IS BASED IN SUFFOLK AND RUN BY DAISY BAYLISS, AN APPROVED HERBALIST, WHO HOLDS A BSC (HONS) IN EQUINE SCIENCE.

QUESTION: “Hi, my pony lives out all year and I'm looking for something to supplement his diet during the winter when there isn't much goodness in the grazing. He doesn't eat much in the way of hard feed and doesn't like mineral licks, so I would just like something natural to give him a good source of vitamins and minerals.”

ANSWER: There are many different combinations that can be beneficial. The combination that I would recommend would be; Sea Kelp as it is a very rich source of minerals and minerals. It is particularly high in Iodine as well as containing, calcium, iron, magnesium, selenium, zinc, sulphur, manganese, potassium, phosphorus and vitamins A, B, B12, C, D and E. It is great for all-round good health, skin, coat and hoof condition. Rose hips are a general tonic and are one of the richest, natural sources of vitamins C, as well as containing vitamin A, K, Riboflavin and thiamine. They are also great for hoof condition. Nettle as they are full of Iron and also contain sodium, chlorophyl, vitamins C and A. They are an excellent source of dietary fibre, can be used as a tonic and support the circulatory system. People often use Nettles as a spring tonic. Brewer's Yeast is a rich source of B vitamins, which make it beneficial in maintaining healthy skin and coat and supporting the nervous system. It also contains amino acids and is therefore good for balancing gut flora and helping hind gut digestion. www.champerenebespokehorseherbal.com

Product News....

Equerry High Fibre Cubes are designed for horses and ponies at rest or in very light work, when feeding forage alone is not enough to meet your horses’ nutritional needs. Lower energy cubes are also a perfect way to provide ‘Non-Heating’ energy for excitable horses, whilst keeping them is in tiptop health. They are made from a high fibre formula providing essential vitamins and minerals including magnesium and a source of protein. Equerry High Fibre Cubes are low calorie, making them ideal for good-doers and are cereal-grain free with low levels of sugar and starch. Can be soaked and are suitable for elderly horses as a hay replacer. www.equerryhorsefeeds.com

LOCATED IN NEWMARKET BUT WORKING BOTH NATIONALLY AND INTERNATIONALLY DONNA CASE BSC (HONS) IS THE HIGHLY EXPERIENCED EQUINE NUTRITIONIST WHO RUNS ‘THE HORSE FEED GURU’, AN EQUINE NUTRITION CONSULTANCY. FORMERLY A COMMERCIAL NUTRITIONIST ACROSS THREE BRANDS, NOW COMPLETELY INDEPENDENT, SHE HAS WORKED WITH HORSES AND RIDERS COMPETING AT AN OLYMPIC LEVEL THROUGH TO ONE-HORSE OWNERS WANTING THE VERY BEST. CLIENTS CAN TRUST THE INDEPENDENT ADVICE THEY RECEIVE COMES FROM EXTENSIVE INDUSTRY KNOWLEDGE AND EXPERIENCE BUT IS ALSO TOTALLY IMPARTIAL OF ANY FEED BRAND. HER AIM IS TO DEMYSTIFY FEEDING FOR THE GOOD OF THE HORSE AND RIDER.

Cafeteria W STYLE FEEDING

e all know of the importance of feeding plenty of forage to our horses. But have you ever heard of cafeteria style feeding? It is such a fun, enriching and healthy way to feed, particularly in the winter months when turnout time may be limited. So here is the lowdown for you to give it a try this year! Essentially it is a bit like us going to a cafeteria and picking and choosing what we would like to eat. In the case of our horses however, these should all be high fibre options suitable as hay replacers. The idea behind it is to encourage your horse’s natural foraging behaviour and give him greater control and choice as to what he eats and when. Research has shown that offering different types of fibre can help to keep stabled horses content. Not only can it help to maintain a healthy digestive tract, but it can extend eating times and reduce boredom. So how to set this up?

First you could put your hay net up as usual. You may wish to split the quantity into a couple of nets rather than just one and place in different areas of the stable. You could also put some hay on the

floor. In another corner you could have a bucket of short chopped fibre. There are many available on the market, just check that they are suitable to be fed as hay replacers. In another area of the stable you may place some High Fibre Cubes or even a low-calorie Fibre Mash. Don’t forget you can add succulents too for him to find; hanging or in a feed bowl. Finally, you may want to add a stable toy/ball to extend eating time further. I have even known owners place hedgerow plants around the stable and attached to nets, but if you are going to do this please be sure that what you are picking is safe for your horse to eat and not poisonous! If in doubt, please do not feed. The key with all of this is to introduce gradually to reduce the risk of any digestive upset or colic, please don’t go from haynet one day to buckets full of different items the next. It is also important you do not over feed which would be based on your individual horse’s daily requirements, taking into account the grazing available to you. www.thehorsefeedguru.com

NUTRITION

Top Tips To...

Minimise the Risk of Winter Colic inter brings a much greater risk of sudden changes to diet and routine and therefore a higher risk of colic. Feed Plenty of Forage/Fibre Not only does ad lib forage provide calories and other nutrients, and heat during its fermentation in the hind gut, it also provides physical bulk in the digestive tract to encourage gut motility and potentially reduce the risk of twists or intussusceptions, which could occur if portions of the gut are empty. Hopefully, your horse has daily access to grazing but, when grass quantity diminishes, providing hay or haylage in the field is essential to keep your horse chewing and fibre flowing through the gut. If, for whatever reason, your horse is not a good hay/haylage eater, you should seriously consider feeding alternatives to keep your horse’s fibre intake up. Chaffs and alfalfa chops, like Alfalfa Plus Oil, or soaked Speedi- or Fibre-beet, are all ideal fed as a ‘haynet in a bucket’ – separate from any hard feed – and can help encourage natural foraging behaviour. Your horse should always have some form of forage or fibre to chew as long periods with nothing to eat can risk gastric ulcers as well as colic.

Encourage Water Consumption Your horse should always have access to fresh clean drinking water so, when temperatures drop, life can get difficult as water buckets or drinkers freeze over. Some horses will also not drink very cold water so adding hot water so that what’s on offer is lukewarm or tepid, may encourage drinking. If a horse doesn’t drink enough, there is a risk of the gut contents becoming too dry and compacting to cause a blockage. Other ways to increase moisture intake include feeding soaked hay and wet feeds, like Keep Calm, as well as adding soaked Speedi-Beet or Fibre-Beet to the compound feed. Some horses will happily drink a solution of Aqua-Aide electrolyte – which can also be made with warm water – to improve hydration levels. Make sure they also have access to fresh drinking water at all times after being given electrolytes.

Ensure Daily Exercise The horse is not designed for a sedentary lifestyle and physical movement is essential to keep the gut functioning and its contents moving so, if turnout is curtailed and your horse is confined to the box, even a walk round the yard is better than nothing. Vets always report an increase in colic cases in snowy weather, when owners leave horses in their boxes.

Change the Diet with Care Sometimes simply the change to winter forage can upset things and feeding Digest Plus prebiotic, whenever change or potential stress arises, will support the microbial populations of the hindgut and help avoid upsets. If your horse is getting the recommended amount of a mix or cube and work is suddenly interrupted, you can temporarily cut back the quantities until ‘normal service resumes’. Problems arise when this situation continues for longer than a day or two as underfeeding a compound feed means you are not only cutting back on calories but on essential nutrients too. Adding a balancer, like Lo-Cal or Performance Balancer, to reduced quantities of hard feed will bring levels of protein, vitamins and minerals back up, without unwanted calories and, if introduced gradually, should also have minimal impact on gut bacteria. www.baileys horsefeeds.co.uk

Equerry Minty Treats make the perfect reward for your horse or pony and have a lovely spearmint flavour. RRP: £12.50/20kg. www.equerryhorsefeeds

New product... Perform & Shine is a natural and nutritious grass chop. It is 100% pure and free from molasses and preservatives. Perform & Shine is suitable for all horses except those prone to laminitis. Perform & Shine supports medium to hard workload and weight gain. Combines different grasses including timothy and cocksfoot, with a coating of fresh cold-pressed linseed oil. No added preservatives or additives. RRP: £14.80/15kg. www.simplesystem.co.uk

NUTRITION save you money on reduced waste of hay and bedding, save time and effort when mucking out and feeding, and will prevent unnecessary veterinary bills and bodywork fees caused by unnatural feeding. All leading to more time to enjoy your healthy and happy horse!

LET YOUR HORSE GRAZE

As nature intended...

ost owners are aware that their horse evolved to graze at ground level on an almost continuous basis, and that restricting this natural behaviour can contribute to the many health and behavioural issues associated with our domestic horses. However, the reality is that it’s not always possible to give your horse access to 24/7 grazing even if you’d like to, and the alternatives are mostly unsatisfactory. It’s widely accepted that the high-level feeding that comes with using a haynet has the potential to cause physical issues, but feeding from a low manger can be problematic too. Most horses will usually finish their hay far too quickly which of course can lead to digestive issues, and it’s really not ideal for horses with COPD. Providing hay loose on the ground has similarities to manger feeding, but with the added problem of lots more wastage.

What is the solution? Eazigrazer hay feeder provides that all important low-level natural foraging and grazing behaviour that is essential for your horse’s wellbeing, but without the downsides. It gives your horse the opportunity to use natural grazing behaviour, regulates feeding, is low level, and keeps hay contained. This system can help you to manage and prevent health problems such as Gastric Ulcers and Colic, is ideal when you need to restrict grazing due to Laminitis, EMS, or Cushings, and can even improve respiratory conditions such as

COPD. It can also prevent common behavioural problems such as weaving, cribbing and box walking, and the natural feeding position helps keep your horse soft, supple and tension free. Not only that, but Eazigrazer will make your life easier too. This innovative hay feeder will

How does it work? Eazigrazer is very simple and easy to use, and there’s nothing complicated for your horse to work out either. All you need to do is load your hay and add the hay regulator. As your horse grazes, the hay regulator drops down automatically allowing constant but regulated access. The unique design features an interlocking lug and channel system which guides the hay regulator within the container and prevents your horse from twisting or removing it. Eazigrazer is designed to be free of any fixings or mechanisms so you can feel confident there is no chance of injury to your horse, and it is easily portable so you can take it anywhere, or simply move it from stable to paddock when needed. You can even use it as a hay soaker if you wish, making light work of a job you would probably rather do without! www.eazigrazer.co.uk

See advert on page 63!

NUTRITION

CASE STUDY:Jo & Seb

our horse’s diet will play an important part in supporting his health throughout the year. Although, winter does bring particular challenges, such as lower temperatures, adverse weather conditions, shortened turnout time, reduced grazing quality and quantity, and altered workload. Feeding in a way that is sympathetic to your horse’s digestive system, with a diet based on forage and small, lowstarch, hard feeds will help to keep him healthy.

Jo had always suspected Seb, her 10-year-old 15hh Trakehner X, had a sensitive gut and wanted to explore the impact this would have on his behaviour, sensitivity and performance and the EquiBiome test offered Jo the chance to take some of the guess work out if the situation.

aid Jo: “Seb has always been on the ball but his performance took a downturn in the autumn of 2018. He underwent treatment for joint issues and was scoped with grade 2 squamous ulcers which were treated. “My daughter has evented him at BE100 throughout 2018 and previous to that built up from BE80-90 to 100. “I knew he was sensitive to alfalfa as that brought him out in hives but he also always looked bloated. I was aware that the spring grass or any sudden uplift in the grass would cause him to become very unsettled and sensitive behind the saddle, dipping when you checked his back. Physio and a saddle refit didn’t give any relief. The more I researched it the more convinced I became it was more about what he was eating and the impact this was having on the gut - hind gut specifically. “The EquiBiome test revealed Seb had a wide range of biome issues in the hind gut with only two types of bacteria at optimum levels. The great thing about the test was it also gave advice on

how to make diet changes to improve the biome. Simple things like Hawthorne, bruised oats and herbs etc. “I have totally changed how I feed my horse, taken everything back to natural basics; removing soya has changed him overnight! Seb is looking really well, so much more content in and out the stable and happily jumping and travelling. Hopefully he will be back out competing at the end of the month! He hasn’t competed since April 2019. “Our journey was a mix of skeletal and gut issues. The test offers an insight into what is happening in the hind gut, taking out some of the guess work and more importantly giving feeding advice to a happier horse! I would urge horse owners to honestly review the processed foods and the grass types we are giving our horses and understand the possible implications this has on their wellbeing. Use the EquiBiome test if you have any concerns regarding your horse’s hind gut health. I have reseeded two of my paddocks, changed the hard feed to all natural and currently have a much happier horse!”

HOW DO I TAKE THE EQUIBIOME TEST? The EquiBiome Test Kit is ordered online at equibiome.org and once it arrives follow the instructions and return your horse’s faecal sample for testing. You will then receive a detailed report with recommendations to improve your horse’s gut health. With the right management, based on facts not guess work, your horse’s gut health can be improved.

For further information or to order an EquiBiome Test Kit please visit equibiome.org and follow the ‘EquiBiome’ page on Facebook.

The benefits of forage Providing a constant supply of fibre is essential for your horse. Fibre is fermented in the hindgut, which supplies calories and produces heat that will help to keep him warm. Insufficient fibre or excess starch in the diet will disrupt a healthy microbial balance in the hindgut, which can lead to inefficient digestion, weight loss, loose droppings, colic, ‘fizzy’ and stereotypical behaviour. They can also cause gastric ulcers and contribute to DOD, ‘tying-up’ and laminitis. During winter when grazing is poor quality and in limited supply, your horse will need conserved forage (e.g. hay or haylage). Whether he is at rest or working hard suitable forage should be offered ad-lib. However, you might consider restricting your horse’s hay if he needs to lose weight before spring (but to no less than 1.5% bodyweight per day on a dry matter basis). What else can you feed

TopSpec Ask...

CAN YOU SUPPORT YOUR HORSE’S HEALTH THROUGH FEEDING THIS WINTER?

to help? During the winter period it is important to balance your horse’s forage diet for essential micronutrients that will be lacking in his winter forage, including amino acids, vitamins, minerals and trace elements. With increased challenges to your horse’s immune system, from stabling and reduced ventilation, supplementation with antioxidants e.g. vitamins A, C and E, as well as selenium, and Mannan Oligosaccharides (MOS), can be beneficial. Unavoidable changes in routine and intermittent turnout will affect the delicate microbial balance in your horse’s hindgut and feeding high levels of pre and probiotics can help to maintain a healthy hindgut. Feeding an appropriate top specification feed balancer is an ideal approach and can supply everything that is needed in the hard feed (except salt). If your horse is prone to joint stiffness, a

glucosamine joint supplement is also provided by certain balancers.

What about water? As the temperature drops, so might your horse’s desire to drink. This can result in dehydration and reduced gut motility, leading to colic. As well as ensuring your horse always has access to fresh, thawed water, you might like to consider feeding a mash to aid hydration. Article supplied by nutritionists from the TopSpec Multiple AwardWinning-Helpline. They can be contacted, free of charge, on 01845 565030.

NUTRITION

WE CATCH UP WITH...

Photos: JRidley Art & Photography

Charlene Goudkuil

started riding at an early age. I am lucky as my Mother has always had horses so I was on a horse before I could walk! My first pony was called George a 12hh bombproof all rounder, he taught me the basics. “I have been very fortunate to ride competively in a number of disciplines over the past years

including the Royal International and Horse of the Year Show. “My favourite highlight has to be my debut representing the Netherlands in Italy 2018 for the FIP Ladies European Polo Championships and winning a bronze medal. The next Europeans are yet to be announced so I’m very excited.”

L-R: Stephanie Haverhals, Charlene Goudkuil, Olivia Lamphee, Mimi Figgins

How did you get into polo? “My Mother was a devoted dressage rider who now teaches but I struggled to get into it. She’s amazing and taught me everything I know when it comes to schooling, alongside Jonathan Allison. I competed competitvely in showing, in particular Working Hunter Ponies with my Intermediate, Ultimate Experience (Ollie), until I turned twenty-two and outgrew the classes so started

What’s the most useful advice you’ve ever been given? “Work hard, dream big, never give up!”

showjumping. I then went off to university and found polo, not something you often see in Suffolk. I started playing in my first year and from then on was totally hooked. In my second year I bought my first polo pony Chistosa who was stabled at a nearby polo club, Green Point Polo during term times. In the summer months I used to play locally at Little Bentley and Higham Polo Club both of which sadly no longer exist. Little Bentley now operates as a private ground. I currently play regularly at Silver Leys Polo Club, Bishops Stortford and Cambridge County Polo Club, Lode.” Please tell us about your yard. “My yard is at home in Ipswich, Suffolk. It is a private yard run by my Mother and I have a wonderful groom called Emily. Without their amazing support and hard work, none of this would be possible.” You feed Simple System Horse Feeds – can you please tell us more. “I have used the system for

New product...

Dorado, Doc Ricardito and Picosa Dos (aka Pea)

almost fifteen years now. I started using Simple System initially for my show horses in particular for energy release and conditioning. I haven’t looked back since and all my polo ponies, past and present, have been fed the system based on their temparement and needs.”

Your future plans? “I hope to start playing even more competitve Ladies Polo in the UK. Women’s polo is growing year on year and Im excited to be part of it. I currently play a combination of both ladies and mixed though there are a number of prestigious English tournaments I’m yet to play. I am also looking forward to the next FIP European Championships.”

Dory

MEET:

Name: Dorado (Dory) Age: 16 Colour: Bright Bay Sex: Gelding Height: 15hh Breed: Argentine thoroughbred I’ve owned Dorado for seven years. Fast, powerful yet agile. One of the best ponies I have ever played. However he can’t always be caught in the field! Dory is fed Blue Bag Grass Pellets and Simple Balance+.

Charlene Recommends... Blue Bag Grass Pellets Premium high fibre grass pellets, providing all the benefits of summer grass, all year round. Free from molasses, additives and preservatives. Simple Balance+ A carefully formulated forage balancer containing high quality functional ingredients for promoting optimum health. Simple Balance+ is very palatable and pelleted for convenience. www.simplesystem.co.uk

Rici

MEET:

Name: Doc Ricardito (Ricardo/ Rici!) Age: 5 Colour: Palomino Sex: Gelding Height:15hh Breed: Argentine thoroughbred

Possibly one of the easiest and most mature 5-year-olds I have come across. He’s very honest and brave and I’m excited to see how he develops further next season. I played him last Christmas in Argentina and fell in love. I believe he was fed grass/hay previously so he is really enjoying having a daily meal! Rici is fed Blue Bag Grass Pellets and Simple Balance+.

New TopSpec Performance Lite Feed Balancer is designed for good-doers in hard work that need their weight controlled perhaps because of good grazing and forage quality. It is very important that this group of horses and ponies receive their full requirements of vitamins and minerals to support hard work. TopSpec Performance Lite Feed Balancer allows performance horses to receive these micronutrients in a small amount of very low-calorie feed. It is a very palatable ‘NonHeating’ feed that contains a multi-supplement including the levels of micronutrients normally only found in high quality specialised supplements. Using TopSpec Performance Lite Feed Balancer will not promote significant weight gain, but will help to maintain healthy enzyme function, support bone strength, greatly improve hoof quality and produce a supple skin with an exceptionally shiny coat. It may also lead to relaxed behaviour in certain horses and ponies and will help to maintain a healthy immune system. Optimum nutrition will contribute to improved performance. www.topspec.com

RRP: £27.75/ 15kg.

NUTRITION

HOW MYCOTOXINS

s e s r o H t c e f f A

ycotoxins are toxic chemicals produced by some types of mould growth under certain conditions and can occur in growing, harvested or stored cereal and forage crops. One of the key difficulties in identifying risk is that mycotoxins can be present without the presence of mould. Equally, not all mould growth indicates the presence of mycotoxins. Horses are exposed to mycotoxins via feed materials and grazing, as well as bedding. The latter is an important

consideration and one thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s often over-looked. Acute mycotoxicosis (mycotoxin poisoning) is rare in the UK and the more likely scenario is chronic exposure to low levels of multiple mycotoxins presenting an ongoing challenge. Mycotoxicosis has the potential to suppress the immune system and has been associated to a wide range of conditions, from general lack of form, hypersensitivity and loss of wellbeing, through to colic, liver damage and even death. Horses ingesting mycotoxins run the risk of suffering from poor

IN THIS ISSUE ALLTECHâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S EUROPEAN TECHNICAL MANAGER, DR HELEN WARREN, EXPLAINS ABOUT THE DIFFERENT MYCOTOXINS THAT OUR HORSES CAN BE EXPOSED TO, WHICH CAN HAVE A NEGATIVE EFFECT OVER A LONG PERIOD OF TIME. 42

condition, lethargy, depression, lameness and sometimes death. There are three major groups of moulds that produce mycotoxins affecting horses and other animals: Fusarium, Aspergillus and Penicillium. The first is a field-borne mould meaning the mycotoxins are usually present when the crop or forage is harvested. The latter two are usually formed during storage.

For example, Penicillium mycotoxins can be seen in poor quality haylage, especially if air has penetrated the wrap. Effects in the horse vary across the mycotoxin groups but most have some immunosuppressive effect. Fusarium-derived trichothecenes, such as deoxynivalenol, tend to disrupt normal cell function and affect cells located in the small intestine, liver and immune system. Clinical effects can be reduced feed intake, growth and body weight. Another group of Fusarium mycotoxins are the fumonisins to which horses appear the most sensitive species. Exposure to fumonisins can result in a condition called equine leukoencephalomalacia (ELEM) characterised by depression, ataxia, abnormal behaviour, head pressing and

Horses cannot avoid exposure to mycotoxins but with good management practices it is possible to significantly reduce potentially harmful effects

often death. The liver can also be involved and horses generally die within hours of clinical signs. Grazing can also pose a risk. Both tall fescue toxicosis and perennial ryegrass staggers are linked to mycotoxins produced by endophytic moulds on the respective grass species. Lolitrem B is a neurotoxin that causes trembling, muscle spasms and hypersensitivity. All clinical signs can be reversed on removal of the horse from the infected pasture. Red clover can be infected with a particular mould that produces a mycotoxin called slaframine. Slaframine induces diarrhoea, feed refusal, respiratory failure, excessive production of tears, abortion and, sometimes, death. It also causes excessive salivation and, hence, the disease is given the name ‘slobbers’. The concern for horses in relation to mycotoxins is predominantly the effect that consistent, low level exposure may have on athletic performance and breeding capability without the

appearance of any specific symptoms. Unlike commercially bred livestock, horses can have a long lifespan and may therefore be expected to reproduce successfully in their later years. For this reason, the relative ‘safe’ level of mycotoxins allowed within the diet in unknown. More equine specific research is required, but leading figures in the industry agree that it is an area requiring attention. Suffice to say, all horses come into contact with mycotoxins on a daily basis. Good management practices, such as using quality feedstuffs, careful production and storage of feedstuffs and ensuring a fully balanced diet will all help minimise the level challenge from these compounds. Additionally, dietary inclusion of an appropriate mycotoxin adsorbent will help mitigate risk of negative effects in the horse. Horses cannot avoid exposure to mycotoxins but with good management practices it is possible to significantly reduce potentially harmful effects. www.lifeforcehorse.co.uk

Top Three Tips...

HOW TO REDUCE YOUR HORSES’ RISK OF EXPOSURE TO MYCOTOXINS THIS WINTER.

Store hay in a dry, well-ventilated environment and ensure that you feed old to new. Always thoroughly inspect hay or haylage before feeding. Pay attention to the use-by-date on feed bags, particularly if they contain oil or molasses and store in rodent proof bins. If rodents are allowed to chew holes in feed bags this will expose its contents to the elements. Properly empty feed bins and clean them out prior to refilling. Old feed stuck at the bottom of a feed bin is a breeding ground for mould.

Forage Guard is a natural feed material produced from yeast cell wall and micro-algae, which specifically binds mycotoxins and removes them from the gut. The active ingredient in Forage Guard has a substantial and broadspectrum capacity to rapidly bind multiple mycotoxins. A 5kg tub of Forage Guard retails at £45 and contains a 100 day supply.

NUTRITION

WE CATCH UP WITH...

Georgie Spence

his August saw the launch of a series of test events across multiple sports taking place in Tokyo, Japan, as the organisers of next year’s summer Olympics get into the final stages of their preparations. One of those events was a trial run of the eventing set up, and Haygain rider Georgie Spence was among the international cohort of riders invited to take part. That gave us the perfect opportunity to catch up with Georgie to find out how the trip went and how her preparations for Olympic selection are going.

How did you feel when you heard you would be travelling to Tokyo? “It was a truly amazing experience, from the first day that I found out I was going, it was a brilliant whirlwind! It was exciting to learn more about how the horses would travel, the prep they would need before the competition and what it would be like to actually be away there.”

What were the preparations like for taking Halltown Harley on such a long trip? “We moved Harley onto a different feed and hay before he left so that he had time to

adjust, and thankfully all the fitness work and training went smoothly in the run up to leaving. I competed at the Plains in America last year which Harley flew to, but the flight to Japan was much longer.” Haygain rider Georgie Spence on the Tokyo Test Event

The humidity was a real shock, and I’m sure that everyone from Team GB who was there have learnt a lot about the types of horses they will need to take to the Olympics to cope with the conditions.”

It’s great that they had How did Harley manage Haygain steamers ready and waiting for with the long journey? “He travelled like a dream. He is the equine competitors, always a great traveller, but you were most riders using them? never know how something so different will go but he was fab. “Yes, the Haygain I was given was a real god send and several He’s a lovely horse to have of the other riders were using around and is a complete pro. Alex VT travelled with the horses them. For me it was really important to keep the and her attention to detail is consistency as with the change incredible, so I felt very lucky in forage (which was very that he was in safe hands!” different to what we use at The preparations were home), I definitely felt happier successful then! What knowing that we were feeding was it like when you got to have a healthy horse!” to Tokyo? “Hot! It is going to be a scorcher Well done on coming fourth in the event! An of an Olympics, that’s for sure.

amzing result. What do you like to do when the eventing season finishes for the year? “When the season has finished the horses all have a holiday, but we try to stagger their holidays so that half go out and then when they come in, the other half go out. That means we don’t go from very busy to nothing and then have everything in again. “I am planning a holiday to India with my boyfriend, one of my best friends Liv Catton and her boyfriend over New Year. It’s great to get away and do something ‘non horsey’ for a bit and then it will be back to it in January with lots of dressage and showjumping! “It’s going to be an exciting 2020 and I would like to thank Haygain for their advice, in particular Jemma for the support, I look forward to many more years working together!” www.haygain.co.uk

FIVE MINUTES WITH...

“I wanted to utilise the amazing therapeutic power of animals to support people of all ages in their learning, development, wellbeing and mental health. The skills I have refined over my nineteen years in education allows me to make a difference and reach out to young people, enabling them to the best that they can be.”

Rachel Hartopp

RACHEL LAUNCHED BERRY FIELDS ANIMAL ASSISTED EDUCATION AND CONSULTANCY IN LONG SUTTON, LINCOLNSHIRE THIS YEAR. HERE SHE TELLS US MORE ABOUT HER NEW VENTURE AND WHAT SHE CAN OFFER CHILDREN AND YOUNG ADULTS. erry Fields works with a host of other educational agencies to improve the lives of young people with the use of trained therapy animals. “Berry Fields provides equine facilitated interventions and activities to schools, private settings and individuals. “I’m a qualified headteacher, SEND Leader, teacher of nineteen years within mainstream settings, and I am qualified to deliver Animal Therapy and Equine Facilitated Learning (EFL). Having used animals within education successfully for many years, these experiences came together and created my Berry Fields vision. “Berry Fields is proud to be working in mainstream primary, secondary schools, special educational needs schools and social, emotional and behavioural difficulties schools. “The detailed framework of our sessions supports all settings that work with children and young adults, inspiring them to connect with animals to enhance and accelerate meaningful learning linked to

personal goals and relevant educational curriculums. “As a qualified headteacher and Special Educational Needs Leader I can plan detailed EFL sessions to meet the needs of a whole range of pupils. As I have a strong knowledge of educational curriculums I can link sessions to the relevant and appropriate learning curriculum that they are studying at school. My experiences also allow me to feedback the impact of sessions to a whole host of educational practitioners and agencies working with individuals and schools. I am a registered provider to deliver EFL to pupils that are at risk of exclusion from school.”

What sessions do you offer? “I offer various packages to schools - from one-off sessions to packages that run over the entire year with one visit per half term. I link the horsemanship skills very closely to the British Horse Society and the education side to the relevant curriculum for the age/stage in learning. I also deliver individual EFL sessions for children and adults. For adults, I am qualified to deliver sessions for wellbeing, mental health, anxiety, domestic abuse, dementia and much more.”

Best part of your job? “Observing how confidence and self-esteem grow through interaction with horses. I like to nurture the best out of people that attend my sessions, getting them to realise there are no limits to their success.”

If you could give one piece of advice what would it be? “I would encourage anyone that is wanting to make a change in their career path, or to combine their skills to do something new, that it is never too late. Your skills will always be there to go back to, so grab new opportunities with both hands especially if it will make a better life and difference to others.” www.berryfieldsanimal assistededucation.co.uk

SADDLERY & TACK

DAY IN THE LIFE OF A...

Saddle Fitter

BY POPPY WEBBER, QUALIFIED SADDLE FITTER FOR THE SOCIETY OF MASTER SADDLERS, COVERING CAMBRIDGESHIRE, LINCOLNSHIRE, NORFOLK AND SURROUNDING AREAS. SHE ALSO WRITES REGULAR ADVICE POSTS ON PEEWEE SADDLERY’S SOCIAL MEDIA. SEARCH FOR #adayinthelifeofasaddlefitter

hings to never say to your Saddle Fitter... ‘Will this saddle fit my horse?’ Today my Messenger pinged for the zillionth time… ‘Will an 18” saddle fit my 14.2hh pony?’ I politely replied that she would need to book a fitting, as I would need to see the pony. Ping! She replied immediately with a photo of a lovely little Welsh pony. Well, it looked lovely… I couldn’t see much of it, seeing that it was a photo of it’s head over the stable door. True story. You’d think this was a one-off but it’s not. It happens quite a lot. The only way we can tell you if a saddle fits your horse is during a saddle fitting.

Photo: Abbi Grief Photography

‘What is the D to D measurement?’ D to D measurements are

irrelevant. Irrelevant. There. I said it. They do not represent the width of the saddle, at all. Not at all. Because the D rings can be placed anywhere on the saddle, they’re not structural. They’re purely there to attach things to; your breastplate, your ‘Oh Sugar!’ strap, or even your little sandwich bag, filled with a mini bottle of gin and a pack of ham butties. If the D-rings were set only one inch lower it would make a huge difference to the ‘D to D’ measurement - yet the width/fit of the saddle wouldn’t change at all. So please, every saddle fitter in the world is begging you. Please never mention the D to D measurement again.

ood quality, handcrafted saddlery can last for years but only if carefully maintained and looked after. When using saddles and bridles on a daily basis, the rigours of riding puts them to the test so regular cleaning, care and attention is vital to ensure you are still using them in many years to come. As we all know, investing in good quality tack is likely to be one of the most expensive and important purchases you make for you and your horse. Once you have the right saddle, bridle and other tack accessories it is then over to you to ensure they remain in good condition and last for years. Your saddle and bridle should be checked each time you tack up

Q&A

and a more in depth look taken when cleaning. In general leather should be supple and free from cracks. If allowed to dry out, leather becomes brittle and weak, making it prone to splitting. Pay particular attention to straps which are subjected to a lot of stress e.g. girth straps and stirrup leathers. Make sure stitching is secure, metalwork e.g. buckles are not damaged and that holes have not become enlarged. If the tack is in poor condition it can injure you and your horse or cause a serious accident. Checks to tack should be thorough; this will involve turning your saddle upside down to check underneath it and lifting up all flaps. To check a bridle properly it will need to be taken apart as buckles often hide cracks in the leather.

SOCIETY OF MASTER SADDLERS’ QUALIFIED SADDLE FITTER, BEA BLAKEMAN, ANSWERS YOUR FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS.

QUESTION: I have a Qualified Saddle Fitter coming to fit saddles on my new horse. What preparations do I need to make? ANSWER: Initial discussions should identify your saddle needs, colour preference and budget; it’s wise to be open minded on brands and recognise it’s not always possible to find a suitable saddle within a more limited budget. Also make sure you: Advise your Qualified Saddle Fitter about your horse and its conformation, as well as your own height. Be on time and ready with a clean horse. Have a covered area or stable for the initial horse assessment. Be prepared to ride (access to a ménage would be ideal). Have your usual girth, leathers and irons ready. You might like to ask your trainer to join the appointment. Always advise your Qualified Saddle Fitter beforehand if your horse has lost a shoe or has any lameness

Steps to maintain leather must be taken to ensure it stays supple and safe. Ideally tack should be cleaned every time it has been used, but this is not always possible. At the very least bits should be washed in clean water and dried with a clean cloth after they have been used. Also if tack gets wet and muddy it should not be left or it is likely to become brittle or may stretch. Remove mud and dirt with a warm damp cloth and allow it to dry at room temperature, and then apply a leather conditioner. It is advisable therefore to thoroughly clean your saddle and bridle at least once a week. The aim of thorough cleaning is to remove all dirt and grease and then to feed and condition the leather. There are numerous products available on the market

for conditioning leather such as sprays, wipes, soap bars, creams, oils and balms. Always read manufacturerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s instructions carefully to make sure the product is suitable for your particular type of leather. Whether you use a sponge, brush or cloth to clean and apply product make sure it is not too abrasive so that the leather isnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t scratched. To clean metalwork you can use a metal polish, this will leave buckles and stirrups etc looking brighter and clean. Never use polishes on bits though as they may be harmful to your horse. Even if you think you have washed a polish off it is likely a residue is left behind which you cannot see. If a saddle is good quality and well cared for it should last for

A saddle ready for some care and attention

TACK CARE FOR

LONGEVITY

IN THIS ISSUE THE TEAM AT THE SOCIETY OF MASTER SADDLERS OFFER ADVICE ON TACK CARE AND MAINTENANCE TO HELP ENSURE IT LASTS AND STANDS THE TEST OF TIME years, and if it still fits your horse there is no need to replace it. You might like to replace certain parts though such as the girth straps and stirrup leathers. Stitching

may also need re-doing on certain parts of your saddle or bridle after a few years. www.mastersaddlers.co.uk

LOVE DOGS

HELP YOUR DOG COPE WITH FIREWORKS NIGHT

any dogs get excitable, frightened and lose focus for a whole variety of reasons but a good calming supplement can make quite a dramatic improvement to the behaviour of anxious dogs. VetSpec Calm and Focused is a canine supplement formulated with scientifically-proven ingredients including tryptophan – a natural precursor of serotonin and the yeast products FOS and MOS to help maintain a healthy gut

environment, and is wheat gluten-free. It can help improve a dog’s concentration and obedience, reduce nervousness and fear of strangers, travelling, separation anxiety and loud noises such as fireworks. Simply add to your dog’s normal feed. A 500g tub will last a 20kg dog for twelve weeks. Also available in a 200g tub (four weeks supply for a 20kg dog). Or if you prefer a complete dog food that contains a calming supplement, try VetSpec Calm & Focused Formula - a super,

premium dog food containing 60% chicken with added vegetables and herbs and no added colours, preservatives or artificial flavours. It is cerealgrain-free and the formulation includes tryptophan, prebiotics and magnesium together with biotin and other associated nutrients. It is ideal for dogs that get anxious and over-excitable or suffer from separation anxiety or fear of loud noises like fireworks. It is also very helpful when training young dogs to improve on their focus and obedience.

VetSpec Calm & Focused Formula is available in 2kg (£13.94) and 12kg (£49.94) bags.

VETSPEC’S FIREWORK TOP TIPS

• Try a calming supplement specially formulated for dogs. It is usually best to start on this in good time prior to Bonfire Night. • Walk your dog well before it gets dark and keep him on a lead in case he is startled by any fireworks let off early. • Once the fireworks start, keep your dog indoors and make him a quiet den that he can retreat to if he becomes stressed. As well as the obvious signs, panting, drooling and yawning can be signs of stress too. • Don’t shout at or reprimand your dog if he is frightened or barking at the noise – it will only stress him out more. Keep calm and praise him when he is quiet. • Keep curtains closed so that flashes can’t be seen and switch on the television or radio to help disguise the noise. • Some dogs may pace around and whine, but if your dog prefers to hide, just let him do that and be quiet on his own. www.vetspec.com

The National Pet Show…

K’s ‘ultimate day out for animal lovers of all ages’ returns to Birmingham NEC on the 2nd -3rd November. Bigger, better and furrier than ever, The National Pet Show will showcase so much more than just pups and pussycats. This year’s Show welcomes Dogs with Jobs back again. These remarkable dogs carry out vital jobs including police dogs, search and rescue dogs who locate those lost, trapped or injured, and assistance dogs who provide life-changing help for people with disabilities. www.thenationalpetshow.com

See VetSpec on competition page 50!

Product News...

Pure Wool Dog Bone Toy. RRP: from £18. www.thelounginghound.com

Westcotts is a unique high quality dog food. Available for either puppy or adult dogs in chicken and rice. Westcotts contains the Animal Health Company’s supplement, Hyper Coat Prime, for the skin and coat boasting 87% Omega Oils. Hypo-allergenic, wheat, soya, gluten and dairy free. Available in 2kg and 12kg bags, delivered to your door. www.animal-health.co.uk

Nights Collection Dog Rug. RRP: £45. www.backontrack.com/uk

Limited Edition Dog Drying Coat. RRP: from £39. www.ruffand tumbledogcoats.com

TurmerEase - Tasty premium turmeric supplement slices which have a grain free, high meat, hypoallergenic formula, to aid joint health by supporting the body’s natural inflammation processes. Made from ethically sourced raw chicken, they also contain ingredients to aid digestion and promote skin and coat condition. Suitable for dogs and cats. RRP: £22.99. www.goldenpastecompany.com

WIN! WIN!

WIN A 12KG BAG OF

VETSPEC CALM & FOCUSED FORMULA DOG FOOD!

VetSpec Calm & Focused Formula is a super premium dog food which contains 60% chicken with added vegetables and herbs along with veterinary specification supplements. It is ideal for dogs that get anxious and over-excitable or suffer from separation anxiety or fear of loud noises such as fireworks. VetSpec Calm & Focused Formula is also very helpful when training young dogs to improve on their focus and obedience. Its formulation includes tryptophan, prebiotics and magnesium together with biotin and other associated nutrients to greatly improve the coat and promote a supple skin. It is wheat-gluten-free with no added colours, preservatives or artificial flavours. Available in 2kg (£13.94) and 12kg (£49.94) bags. www.vetspec.com

To enter: Visit www.absolutehorsemagazine.com and click on the Competitions page. Entries open 1st November 2019 and close 30th November 2019.

HOYS Ro HORSE OF THE YEAR SHOW TOOK PLACE FROM 2ND – 6TH OCTOBER AT THE RESORTS WORLD ARENA, THE NEC, BIRMINGHAM. MORE THAN 60,000 SPECTATORS ATTENDED THE SHOW – REGARDED AS THE ‘ULTIMATE CELEBRATION OF THE HORSE’. HAVING CELEBRATED A MOMENTOUS 70TH ANNIVERSARY SHOW LAST YEAR, THE 2019 SHOW WAS AN EQUESTRIAN SPECTACULAR WITH PLENTY TO ENTERTAIN. THE SHOW HOSTS THE FINALS OF THE MOST HIGHLY REGARDED NATIONAL SHOWING AND SHOWJUMPING CHAMPIONSHIPS, THREE DAYS OF INTERNATIONAL SHOWJUMPING, AND A FULL LINE-UP OF ENTERTAINMENT. HORSE OF THE YEAR SHOW IS HIGHLY REGARDED AMONGST THE SHOWING COMMUNITY AS BEING ‘THE’ SHOW TO QUALIFY YOUR HORSE FOR TO HIGHLIGHT AND REWARD THE QUALITY BREEDING, CONFORMATION AND PERFORMANCE OF EACH ANIMAL. WITH AN ASTOUNDING 29 DIFFERENT SHOWING CHAMPIONSHIPS AVAILABLE TO QUALIFY FOR, THOUSANDS OF COMPETITORS SET OUT EACH YEAR FOR A PLACE IN THE FINAL AT HOYS.

undup 2019: ocal Competitors

EVENT & READER REPORTS: HOYS SPECIAL

ESSEX-BASED SEIB INSURANCE BROKERS: RACEHORSE TO RIDING HORSE CHAMPIONSHIP and then came to me six months later.” In his last racecourse appearance, Grandeur was ridden by Frankie Dettori. He was trained by Jeremy Noseda and bred by Cherry Faeste. In their two previous appearances in the Racehorse to Riding Horse HOYS final, Jo and Grandeur finished in third place in 2017 and eighth position last year. For the second year running the runner up spot went to Lizzie Harris, this time riding her talented ex-point-to-pointer, Lough Inch. Lizzie said: “I am so emotional today, to even get here in his first season contesting this class is brilliant, let alone to

take the reserve. He is getting better and better.” Over the six years he was pointing, Lough Inch, who is by Jimble won nineteen times and was champion in the 2016 -7 season. Prior to his point to pointing career, the horse was in training with Jonjo O’Neill, he was even partnered on a couple of occasions by Sir AP McCoy. Lizzie rode her chestnut gelding Wild West to the runnerup spot in the Racehorse to Riding Horse HOYS final last year. Interestingly, in both 2017 and 2018 Lizzie won the Burghley Racehorse to Riding Horse qualifier and Continued overleaf....

Jo Bates and Yvonne Jacques’ Grandeur.

Photo: Realtime Imaging.

vonne Jacques’ striking grey exracehorse, Grandeur, took the SEIB Racehorse to Riding Horse title at HOYS. This was the third appearance for this 10-year-old gelding in what has become a renowned HOYS final. By Verglas, Grandeur was ridden to the win by his long-term producer and rider, Jo Bates. Jo said: “Grandy is the most lovely ride, it has taken time to get him to where he is as he can be nervous. He really is pretty special and has absolutely proved this today.” The final was judged by John Chugg (conformation) and Sarah Coward (ride). Sarah said: “Our winner was something else, from the moment he came into the ring his presence caught our eye. He was the most beautifully schooled horse to ride and carried himself wonderfully. Our second horse had a brilliant engine and in canter it was as though he had cruise control. All the horses in the final were great to ride, all wanted to go on but were responsive. I was ultimately so impressed with the way each of the horses stood in the atmosphere of the main HOYS arena and it was lovely to see the genuine reactions of the riders and how much the class means to them.” Jo and Grandeur were the first combination to qualify for the Racehorse to Riding Horse finals this season with a win at Osbaldeston in April securing their HOYS ticket. Jo continued: “I am so thrilled with Grandy, we have had to take our time with him and it has paid off. He last ran in September 2015

EVENT & READER REPORTS: HOYS SPECIAL Continued from previous page...

then has gone on to take second place at HOYS. Another horse new to this class took third spot. Qulinton is owned by Jonathan and Serena Geake, and ridden by their daughter Thea. Qulinton and Thea both began their showing careers at Stretcholt EC in Somerset back in May where they qualified for this final. Before embarking on this second career as a show horse, Qulinton was a very successful three-mile chaser running in about sixty races and winning £90,000 in prize money. He was trained by David Pipe and Johnny Farrelly. Qulinton’s owner, Jonathan Geake trained the 2017 winner of the SEIB

Racehorse to Riding Horse Championship, Beware ChalkPit. Jenny Harker’s, Mumford, took fourth place, ridden by Collette McGoldrick. Both Collette and the horse are new to exracehorse showing classes. During his racing days, Mumford was trained by Jenny’s husband Geoffrey Harker in North Yorkshire. Collette said: “Jenny’s daughter Emma has ridden a few ponies for us and some friends of mine have said to me how much fun the racehorse classes are, so I asked Jenny if she had a horse that I might be able to loan and Mumford arrived with me last November. We began training seriously in January, went to some clinics in February and he has been out

being successful in shows since then!” Mumford ran on the flat for both Geoffrey Harker and Richard Hannon, last racing in July 2018. In fifth place was Racehorse to Riding Horse stalwart, Clonard Lad who was making his fifth appearance in the final. Clonard Lad is ridden by Paul Langrick and owned by Becky O’Neill. Lindsay McCullough’s, Golden Bird, ridden by Richard Telford, JM Jerram’s, Singing Hinnie ridden by Essex’s Katie JerramHunnable, Mr Ooosh owned by Essex’s Baileys Horse Feeds and ridden by Lynn Russell and Liz Prowting’s Desert Joe ridden by Rebecca Court from London made up the remainder of the placings. Nicolina MacKenzie, Marketing

Manager for SEIB said: “The Racehorse to Riding Horse class has grown into a muchanticipated HOYS fixture and for these horses to get through to the final is a huge achievement in itself. The horses taking part in the Racehorse to Riding Horse qualifiers and finals are increasingly out competing – and having success in – open classes. We were so very proud to see our winner going on to take second place in the large hack of the year HOYS final and for him to be going on to the Supreme Horse of the Year final with a real live chance of success is simply brilliant.” www.racehorse2 ridinghorse.co.uk www.seib.co.uk

BRITISH SHOWJUMPING SILVER LEAGUE CHAMPIONSHIP

Photo: 1st Class Images

aising the bar and claiming victory in the British Showjumping Silver League Championship was Cambridgeshire-based Stacey Cook riding her stunning 13-year-old bay gelding, Gigant. It was very close on the leader board as the final competitors took to the arena, each one bettering the previous round. Saving the best until last, Stacey stormed down to the final fence, jumping into the lead and taking the Champion title. Stacey’s win rounded off a successful year for her as she also won the National Winter Silver League Championship at the British Showjumping Spring Championships in April this year with her homebred Ninola. Speaking of her win on day one at Horse of the Year Show, Stacey said: “We have had such a great season. Having just come back from having a baby I couldn’t believe it when I qualified both of my horses for HOYS in the same year. I decided to let him [Gigant] have the limelight because the other one [Ninola] won the winter league. He is so consistent and a lovely mover. I’ve owned him for eight years now and have produced him myself so it’s so rewarding that he keeps on giving.” Stacey fits in her training with the horses around her day job working as an equestrian instructor, making her fully invested in the equestrian industry. She adds: “I hadn’t seen anyone else’s round or even heard how they had got on so I went in a bit blind, but I just wanted to do the best we could and was quite surprised when they said we had won the class. I’m so pleased with him. I think next year we will try some 1.40s and see how we get on.”

orkshire-based driver Neil Wray clung on to his title as the Steve Dent Stunt Harness Horse and Pony of the Year Champion for the second year running with the 8-year-old black stallion, Plains Royalty. Out of fifteen turnouts in the class, eight were pulled forward by Judges Mary Ford and Justin Cowles, who then whittled it down to their final two; Neil driving Plains Royalty, along with 2014 and 2015 champion, Essex’s Jessie Dudley Apicella driving Aghaderg Stand and Deliver. Eventually the hand went in Neil’s favour to be crowned champion for the second consecutive year.

AN INCREDIBLE 1-2 FOR DAISY IN THE BLUE CHIP PONY NEWCOMERS CHAMPIONSHIP

aisy Williams made her first time at Horse of the Year Show one to remember, taking both first and second place with her two ponies, Bermudez BDA and King III respectively. The Lincolnshire-based teenager got an early birthday surprise when she took to the Andrews Bowen International Arena on day two at Horse of the Year Show. As first to jump in the seven pony jump off, she cleared a textbook round aboard Bermudez BDA. The pair set an unbeatable time of 31.60 seconds, fighting off close competition from the other riders to maintain her lead throughout. With two ponies in the jump off, Daisy was last to go with her second ride, King III, and only had herself to beat. Showing experience beyond her years, Daisy rode another expertly ridden course and flew down to the last fence to finish in 31.67 seconds allowing her to take that second-place position. With the biggest smile on her face, Daisy commented afterwards: “I can’t quite believe

Blue Chip Pony Newcomers 2019, Daisy Williams riding Bermudez BDA

Photo: 1st Class Images

STEVE DENT STUNT HARNESS HORSE AND PONY OF THE YEAR CHAMPS

that just happened. I was so nervous going in and I just hoped for the best. Billy [Bermudez BDA] is only 6-yearsold and hasn’t done many jump offs and I was surprised how fast we went. When I went in again with King, I didn’t even realise that I was in the lead until I heard the commentator on my approach to the first fence and I just couldn’t stop smiling. It is my first time at HOYS and it is such a dream come true to even

be here, let alone to win. I came here a few years ago as a visitor and it just gave me the motivation to get training with the ponies. “Billy gets into the arena excitable and raring to go, whereas King is a bit more reserved. They are both incredible ponies and I am so thankful to my trainers Kyle Hassle and Kelly Aldous for all of their support.”

ADDINGTON EQUESTRIAN 2019 LTD TALENT SEEKERS INCORPORATING THE BRIGHTWELLS 7-YEAR-OLD CHAMPIONSHIP ounding off day one of Horse of the Year Show in style, the audience in the Andrews Bowen International Arena were treated to an extraordinary result in the final class of the day and another ‘first’ with a two-way tie in the Addington Equestrian 2019 Ltd Talent Seekers Championship. Jay Halim and Tim Davies congratulated one another on their joint win in a time of 31.23 seconds, both sharing the same sentiment of gratitude. Tim from Bury St Edmunds, Suffolk was last to go in the jump off riding 8-year-old chestnut gelding, Lionel Van De Markieslanden. “It’s an honour to share the win with Jay; I watched his round and noted his time. My horse is quick but when I looked up at the clock I knew straight away that we’d drew. He’s the perfect person to share it with though and I’m really pleased for him. I mainly compete here in England producing young horses so it means a lot to win a big Championship here at Horse of the Year Show. I’ve had him since he was 4-years-old and he was a tricky horse but I knew he’d come good. To come here and win with him is just incredible.”

EVENT & READER REPORTS: HOYS SPECIAL NEW CHAMPION CROWNED IN EQUITOP MYOPLAST SENIOR FOXHUNTER

ertfordshire’s Simon Crippen finally had his day, taking the Equitop Myoplast Senior Foxhunter Championship riding Tim Peake’s 7-year-old gelding, Premier Titanium, at Horse of the Year Show 2019. Often described as the class everyone wants to win, Simon has been placed in the Championship many times, coming closest in 2010 when he took second place with Wembley III. The Foxhunter Championship started in 1954, it is one of the longest standing Championships at HOYS and its popularity is down to it showcasing the very best of the country’s novice horses. Taking home the highly-coveted Foxhunter goblet after a difficult course, Simon was thrilled with his win finishing on a time of 38.51 seconds. He commented: “Tonight everything went my way. I had a funny feeling today that we would do well, and I was thirteenth to go which is my lucky number. I’ve been placed in this class a lot over the years, so to finally win was a fantastic feeling.”

Photo: Julian Portch

NATIONAL PONY SOCIETY/SNUGGY HOODS WORKING HUNTER PONY OF THE YEAR

Photo: 1st Class Images

ive-time HOYS Working Hunter Pony winner, Cashel Bay JJ (Cash), owned by Polly Eddis, made it six wins in the 153cm class and took the Reserve Champion title; a victory that has previously eluded him in this particular Championship. Susie Eddis has ridden Cash for the past two seasons. Her sister Lucy had the ride beforehand and competed him at HOYS between 2014 and 2018. Cash has been placed in Working Hunter classes at HOYS for eight years on the trot and took the Mountain & Moorland Working Hunter Pony Championship in 2016. Now aged 16, this Connemara shows no signs of slowing down. Speaking after her class, Essex’s Susie said: “He was amazing in there; I like him with a bit more energy, a bit fiery!” Lucy, who was at HOYS to support her sister, said: “It’s incredible. Just when you think he’s done it all, he does it again.” Cash will have a rest now over winter while Susie concentrates on her event horse. Kate Johnston’s 10-year-old Dutch Warmblood gelding Elton John II climbed up from third place last year to top the Intermediate section with daughter Daniella in the saddle. Lincolnshire’s Daniella was thrilled with the win. She’s had Elton for four years and is pleased with how he has matured over his three appearances at HOYS. The pair regularly show jump and came to HOYS fresh from winning the 1.25m Grand Prix at Arena UK just two weeks beforehand.

SIMON CONSTABLE EQUINE VETS AND MR & MRS ROBERTS RIDDEN PUREBRED ARAB OF THE YEAR CHAMPION

SEIB SEARCH FOR A STAR SERIES SEEKS OUT FUTURE STARS

Daffodil, ridden by Kirsty Warnes

“It is wonderful that SEIB have made this class possible” - Kirsty Warnes

Photo: 1st Class Images

home-produced 6-year-old Arab gelding, Rafeekah, owned by Kerry Bates and ridden by daughter Kimberley won the Simon Constable Equine Vets and Mr & Mrs Roberts Ridden Purebred Arab of the Year Championship. “We don’t have anything fancy at home and do all the work ourselves,” explained Northamptonshire’s Kimberley. Overall second place went to Tracey Hateley’s grey gelding, CBeebies, ridden by Darren Crowe from Essex.

Photo: 1st Class Images

CBeebies, ridden by Darren Crowe

“

“I qualified for the Heavyweight Cob class at HOYS with Jambalaya, although we weren’t placed it was my first season with him (only my third year showing) and my first ever open class” - Sarah Field, Suffolk Jambalaya was also ridden in the Coloured class by Leon King.

isa Sergeant from Lancs came to HOYS with no expectations and was absolutely over the moon when her pony, Linsford Ear to the Ground, not only won the Working Show Pony class, but was crowned overall SEIB Search for a Star Champion. The SEIB Search for a Star series gives amateur riders, and their horses and ponies, the chance to try and qualify for HOYS and benefit from a thoroughly supportive network in the process. Lisa now plans to give HOYS qualifiers a go next year, which is just what the series is all about; finding those future stars. Dorset-based Pippa Tucker was “absolutely buzzing” after her homebred horse, Rambo, clinched the Working Show Horse title and then went on to stand overall Reserve Champion. Wales’ Sarah Walker and her own, Dr Cookie Monster, took the Riding Horse section. Buckinghamshire’s Emma Peel and bay gelding, Melin Moldavite (Harvey), won the Hack section. Wiltshire’s Emily Chambers rode her own mare Wulfstan Evensong (Evie) to victory in the Show Cob section. The Traditional Horse/Pony class was a new addition for this year and was won by Angela Warnes’ 8year-old cob, Daffodil, ridden by Kirsty Warnes. Daffodil was bought unbroken, a bit of a “rough diamond”, and intended to be a happy hack for Kirsty’s mother-in-law. However, after showing plenty of quality, Norfolk’s Kirsty has done a bit of everything with her from showing to dressage and cross country. They had a bit of a slow start to Daffodil’s ridden career after realising she was in foal! Daffodil will eventually go to daughter Ella, but Kirsty was thrilled to find this opportunity for solid coloured cobs within the Search for a Star series. Isabel Southworth’s 5-year-old Irish Sport Horse, Bloomfield Imperial, won the Show Hunter section.

EVENT & READER REPORTS: HOYS BRITISH HORSE FEEDS SPEEDI-BEET GRADE C CHAMPIONSHIP

OUR CASHEL BLUE COMES BACK IN STYLE

he British Horse Feeds Speedi-Beet Grade C Championship was the first showjumping class of the day on Saturday. Out of a field of twenty-six riders, the 1.40m course proved tricky for some. Of the seven horses to make it through to the jump off, Essex’s Allana Clutterbuck set the time to beat of 35.27 seconds riding Vykinbay. Last to go was Angie Thompson riding 9-year-old bay gelding, Fremont VDL. As no stranger to HOYS, Angie knew exactly what she had to do to secure the victory. Riding a perfectly judged round, Angie took a winning turn to the last fence which saw her come home ahead of the rest in a time of 34.66 seconds.

THE LEEMAN FAMILY MAXI COB OF THE YEAR

lizabeth Bury’s Irish Draught, Lord Alexander (Alex), took the title of The Leeman Family Maxi Cob of the Year in the Championship’s ninth running at HOYS. Lynn Russell rode Baileys Horse Feeds’ 9-year-old Piebald gelding, Cappa Sham, to second place. They were also placed in this Championship in 2016 and 2018. Essex-based Richard and Lisha Leeman and the wider Leeman Family are delighted to give back to the discipline through generous sponsorship of both the Cob and Maxi Cob of the Year Championship. Their support also extends to other events including the Kellythorpes Leading Sire and Kellythorpes Leading Breeder Showing Awards Series.

BSPS CHILDREN’S RIDING PONY OF THE YEAR CHAMPIONSHIP

his time last year, Charlotte Caulfield’s pony, Stretcholt New Dimension, was just being backed. Fast forward twelve months and he is now a Horse of the Year Show Champion, having won the British Show Pony Society 138cm Children’s Riding Pony of the Year and standing overall Champion. This was also Charlotte’s first HOYS win. She said: “We never thought he’d get this far in his novice year.” Winner of the 148cm section, Serena Parkhouse’s Jackets Destiny, stood Reserve Champion ridden by Emmy Parkhouse. The winner of the 128cm was Rotherwood Rainmaker ridden by India Till. Second placed in each section were: Dianne Brereton’s Laybalands Fly By Night in the 148cm, Henrietta Till’s Drakemyre Puttin on the Ritz in the 138cm and Essex-based Katie Smith’s Kouros Mayfia in the 128cm.

Photo: Julian Portch

fter a turbulent year, Caroline Tyrrell’s Our Cashel Blue (Blue) has made a triumphant return to Horse of the Year Show with Norfolk’s Allister Hood, claiming The Leeman Family Cob of the Year Championship. Blue was Cob Champion and Supreme Horse of the Year in 2016, and Cob Champion again in 2017. However, in 2018, the 10-yearold was diagnosed with cancer after developing a lump on his shoulder. Blue underwent surgery to remove the tumour at the Royal Veterinary College at Potters Bar and then followed a long journey of three months’ box rest, walking in-hand and riding at walk. Allister had also suffered a heart attack earlier on in the year. Speaking after the Championship, Allister said: “I always had the dream of coming back here [to HOYS]. “He [Blue] has so many followers; we can’t walk around without people wanting to touch him or have a selfie. I’ve never had a horse with such a personality. He’s a grand lad.”

“

“Suffolk-based Team Hillyard had a very successful week at HOYS after a busy season collecting seventeen HOYS tickets! Livie Smith started the week winning the M&M FR on Idyllic Spartacus and also collected a fourth in the Open Sec A. She was also second on her 128cm show pony Kouros Mayfia. Four-year-old Anya Clarke, having her first HOYS ride was fourth in the M&M LR on Thistledown Velvet Touch. Immy Strathern who also had their first ride at HOYS was fifth in the BSPS LR on Seamoor Lady Derby and Emily Cooper was tenth in the same class. Charlotte Tuck was seventh in the Non-native Coloured Ponies with Reevsgate Royal Occasion and eighth in the SHP with Romano Romany Gypsy. Natasha Cooper was fourth on Tullebeg Connection in the Nonnative Coloured Horses” - Charlotte Tuck, Suffolk

“” Photo: 1st Class Images

Photo: 1st Class Images

“Felinmor Crown Prince and I competed in the Search for a Star Working Pony class. We came fourth! We had an amazing time and memories to treasure for ever! And hopefully it won’t be too long before we’re back again!” - Monique Sharp, Cambridgeshire

“I qualified this year for the Horse of the Year Show at Edenbridge and Oxsted County Show after winning the Lightweight Hunters with my horse Equador (Louie). I have been lucky enough to compete at HOYS now three times with Louie, the first year I competed in the Search for a Star Hunters where I came second. SEIB Search for a Star is a fabulously run competition for Home Produced amateurs, they run a series of qualifiers throughout the year with a great mix of classes. I then went onto come ninth in 2017 in the Catplant Group of Companies Lightweight Show Hunter of the Year and this year I was placed eighth in the same class. I always

have a game plan leading up to Horse of the Year Show in regards to my preparation, which consists of lots of indoor schooling, hacking and most importantly grooming to keep his summer coat shining! I am lucky enough to have a very hard working mother who supports me throughout the season with schooling and looking after Louie but everything always steps up a notch once you’ve got that golden ticket. For anyone who dreams of competing at this amazing show I would say keep persisting and always have a goal regardless of the level you are competing at!” - Charlotte Blair, Suffolk

“The HOYS Live Zone is a daily attraction at the show, there are experts on stage throughout the day all through the show. I was privileged to be asked back for the third consequtive year to present a couple of Equestrian Pilates demos; this year's theme was 'Naughty Habits & Vague Instructions' and was based around the anatomical work I do with clients on my Racewood eventing simulator Douglas. I shared common naughty habits I see in riders and also explored terms such as 'use your seat' and even simple things like 'put your leg on' and explained anatomically how to achieve these and other instructions we are given. It was a super couple of days and I have already been asked back next year.” - Sue Gould-Wright, Suffolk 57

EVENT & READER REPORTS: HOYS SPECIAL THE BINKS FAMILY SHOW HUNTER PONY OF THE YEAR CHAMPIONSHIP

ulie Bankier rode Kate Bankier’s bay mare, Toncynfigg Liberty X (Tina), to victory in The Binks Family Show Hunter Pony of the Year Championship at HOYS, rounding off her last year in Show Hunter Pony classes in style. It was a good day for the large Show Hunter Ponies, as the Reserve Champion also came from the 153cm class; second placed CSF Chantilly Galway Girl (Dolly) owned by Lorraine Scott and ridden by Cambridgeshire’s Jessica Reed-Else. Jessica started riding the 6-year-old in May this year and they’ve fitted a lot into their first season together. She is based with Emma-Jayne Dujardin but Jessica will bring her home over the winter. This is Jessica’s highest achievement to date in her riding career. She first competed at HOYS in 2012 in the First Ridden Mountain & Moorland class when they finished eighth. The plan now is to come out again next year and contest some Intermediate classes.

Welsh Section C pony has won the Junior Mountain & Moorland Ridden Championship Sponsored by Ponies Amy Tate riding Rivervalley Flash Jack Association (UK), after going one better on last year’s second place in the Large Breed class. Rivervalley Flash Jack (Jack) is owned by Janet Cox and is 8-years-old. Amy Tate gained the ride on Jack in 2017, and the pair have competed in a lot of dressage as well as undertaking showing qualifiers. A homebred Highland pony stood Reserve Champion, after finishing second to Amy and Jack in the Large Breed class. Austin of Miltonglen is owned by Lincolnshire’s Kirsty Faulkner and ridden by Olivia Faulkner. He had time out last year while the family moved house but has made up for it by competing at five shows this year. Kirsty also owns his sire, Oscar of Edinglassie, and Olivia rode him in the Open Mountain & Moorland class at HOYS in 2016. They were placed eighth. Olivia is now hoping to progress to Open classes with Austin as well. Reflecting, she said: “We’re overwhelmed, it’s the best feeling ever.”

RIDING HORSE OF THE YEAR CHAMPIONSHIP

Photo: 1st Class Images

JUNIOR MOUNTAIN & MOORLAND RIDDEN CHAMPIONSHIP SPONSORED BY PONIES ASSOCIATION (UK)

Photo: 1st Class Images

eam Ross rounded off a fabulous week at Horse of the Year Show when her Small and Large Riding Horses both won their classes and took Champion and Reserve Champion in the Topham Barnes Riding Horse of the Year Championship. Diane Stennett’s Small Riding Horse, Casino III, has been knocking on the door of the Riding Horse Championship for the past four years. Jayne Ross has had three wins with her and two Reserve titles, but they finally clinched the overall Championship. The winner of the Large Riding Horse and Reserve Champion was CSF Cummer Paradise (Audrey), owned by Tony Reynolds and Michael Cook. Second placed in the Small and Large classes were Ian Darcy’s Westerdale Regal Max, ridden by Callum Potts, and Kim Colosso’s Trenavey Rational Choice, ridden by Essex’s Rae Colosso.

“ Photo: 1st Class Images

“We had our homebred Arab gelding at HOYS - he was fifth out of eighteen on his first attempt with only three marks between the top five! He also won two HOYS qualifying Championships in a week ridden by Stephanie Turner...quite a feat indeed! One at the SE region AHS Show and the other at the UKIAHS show at Addington. His name is PHA Devine Chance and he was also both In-hand and Arab Ridden Champion at The Suffolk Show this season....also quite an achievement!” - Jean Peck, Suffolk

”

Tendring Hundred RC Novice Pairs Winners Chloe Mason riding Glowan Dewi and Lucy Hinde riding Rhuban Prince

BRITISH RIDING CLUBS TOPSPEC DRESSAGE TO MUSIC CHAMPIONSHIPS 2019 his year’s BRC TopSpec Dressage to Music Championships was a great success, with almost 230 junior and senior riders qualifying to take part at Bury Farm Equestrian Village in Buckinghamshire. These Championships allow competitors to ride from Prelim level up to the unique ‘Pick A Test’ class, which caters for those more experienced combinations wishing to compete at Medium and Advanced Medium level at a Championship. “It was a fantastic three days of competition and it was wonderful to see so many horses and riders enjoying themselves while competing for the top awards,” said Katy Mickle of TopSpec who are now in their third year of sponsoring these BRC Dressage to Music Championships. Tendring Hundred RC junior riders Chloe Mason riding Glowan Dewi and Lucy Hinde riding Rhuban Prince took home the Novice Pairs championship title with a score of 75.24 percent.

Their test included dramatic music from Pirates of the Caribbean. Tess Hinde, Lucy’s mum said: “They were the only juniors in a class of nineteen pairs and rode their two ponies Nebo and Freddie whilst wearing their revamped old school blazers! The girls have been practicing hard for the champs and their ponies love riding together, despite watching the test many times the real thing made both mummies cry, we were so proud! We would like to thank all the BRC team who make these Championships possible, I think we have attended most of them this year and thoroughly enjoyed them all!” “Once again we had a fabulous three days of competition; welcoming back our sponsor TopSpec. Another big thank you must go to our wonderful BRC Judges and volunteers who without them these championships would simply not be possible,” said Rachael Hollely-Thompson, BRC Manager.

EVENT & READER REPORTS

SEIB SEARCH FOR A STAR

he much anticipated SEIB Search for a Star Riding for the Disabled (RDA) Championship final took place on the 12th September at the British Show Horse Association Hunter Championship Show at Addington. The title went to Drunkeen Boy, ridden by Eleanor Currington and owned by the Cambs College RDA Group. The Judges, David Ingle, Lynn Russell and Rosemary King were unanimous in deciding upon the winner. The Search for a Star RDA championship offers competitors a unique opportunity to have a showing championship with an evening performance, at a championship show alongside non-disabled competitors. Showing opportunities for RDA competitors are few and far between and recognition of the Search for a Star RDA championship, now in its third year, is growing hugely. The Search for a Star competition is also very inclusive as RDA rules differ from para competitions and riders with both physical limitations and mental difficulties are permitted and encouraged to take part. Sarah Hadley of the RDA said: “This championship gives our riders a real day to remember. Competing in the glamour of

the evening performance at the BSHA championships is a truly unique experience for our finalists. Thanks to SEIB, not just for supporting this competition but for everything they are doing to promote Showing for RDA. We are also grateful to BSHA for allowing this class to be held at the Championships and to Addington Manor for hosting.” The new Search for a Star RDA champions, Eleanor Currington and Drunkeen Boy gave a great

Anne Hollier riding Joanne Alderton’s dressage horse, The Scout.

performance to take the win. Eleanor said: “That was brilliant, I would definitely like to do some more showing! He is such a gentle and easy-going horse and he also really likes to stand

in his stable eating.” Judge, Lynn Russell said: “I liked our winner from the moment he came in the ring. He wouldn’t look out of place in an open class and he was well ridden.”

Eleanor Currington receives her prize from Nicky Mackenzie from SEIB and Sarah Hadley from the RDA

Photos: Nico Morgan

RIDING FOR THE DISABLED CHAMPIONSHIP

The Cambridge College RDA own Boyce, as Drunkeen Boy is known at home. The group is headed by Gillian Newsum who explained: “We would never be able to raise enough money to cover the horses’ keep so we operate through the College of West Anglia who pay for the livery so the horses are used by the college students and the RDA riders have one day a week with them.” Gillian found Boyce in a yard in Oakham just over six years ago. In this time Eleanor has ridden him once a week in term-time and the pair also enjoyed success at the Hartpury RDA Championship show earlier this season in the showjumping classes. Eleanor is a Grade 3 rider and had won a place to study at

Oxford when she had a stroke at just 19-years-old. Eleanor added: “As well as riding, I also do a lot of swimming and compete in athletics.” Drunkeen Boy missed the 2018 season with a liver problem. Gillian said: “We are lucky he is still with us. He became ill last year and went downhill fast before making a recovery. It is great to see him raring to go again now. Boyce teaches a lot of people to ride and he is a genuinely nice person and so good at everything.” In runner up spot in the Search for a Star RDA Championship was Anne Hollier riding Joanne Alderton’s dressage horse, The Scout. From Kingstone in Herefordshire, Anne is a member of the Ride 2 Achieve RDA group. Anne competed in Search for a Star with her horse, Simply Quickly back when the series first began and having sadly had a stroke in January this year, she was keen to take part in the Search for a Star RDA championship. Joanne said: “The Scout was drafted in at the last moment at the Search for a Star qualifier at the RDA National Championship as the horse that Anne was due to ride went lame – The Scout was Anne’s choice of ride!” The 2018 Search for a Star champions, Tracy Steel and John Hackett’s big, dark bay gelding, Johan’s Debut, took third place. Tracy is a grade 4 rider and RDA coach with the Tyne and Wear RDA group at the Washington Riding Centre. In fourth was Fleur O’Donohue and Marley II. Fleur and Marley qualified for the Search for a Star

championship in 2018 but weren’t able to compete so Fleur was determined to get to the championship this year. Fleur has also competed at the Special Olympics in skiing and athletics in addition to her riding activities. Lynn Russell added: “I was delighted to be asked to judge this final and it is brilliant to be a part of raising awareness of the things that our RDA riders can achieve in showing. The evening performance provides a wonderful way to celebrate this.” SEIB’s Marketing Manager Nicolina MacKenzie said: “SEIB is renowned for putting something back and I think we have really achieved this with the RDA Search for a Star. Our competition today went really smoothly and each of our finalists rode brilliantly. We are already looking forward to the series next year.” www.seib.co.uk

VICTORIA AND BENITO DORATO DANCE TO SUCCESS incolnshire-based Victoria Maw and and her own 6-yearold Benito Dorato topped a highly competitive Novice Gold with 73.29% at the British Dressage National Championships. Speaking about her test with the home-produced Benny the TopSpec sponsored rider said: “I was really pleased, he had really good balance the whole way through and he felt so fluent! “His party piece is the medium canter,” she continued, “There are so many layers, you put your leg on and he keeps going up the gears – you feel like a kid in a sweet shop riding him!” Benny has been owned by Victoria from the age of just three days old, after she purchased him as a foal in Germany. He spent three years growing up in his home country before moving back to the Lincolnshire based rider who’s sympathetically produced him with a varied approach to working: “He likes jumping, and he does a bit of everything at home. He hacks, goes on the treadmill – he does a bit of everything to keep him happy!”

imple System Horse Feed hosted a succesful ‘Managing Laminitis’ talk at Topthorn Arena on Wednesday 25th September. The free evening event featured Peter Mason BVet Med MRCVS and Jane van Lennep BSc NSc BHSI(SM Cert). “We had a fabulous evening, everyone who attended received a goodie bag. There was plenty of tea and homemade cake. Topthorn were accepting donations for teas and coffees and we raised over £50 for their charity, Home Start,” explained Marketing Manager Stacey Lascelles. One attendee, Krysti Leyden, commented, “Thank you for a lovely evening - it was a very informative talk. The goodie bags are great too.” Another horse owner who attended the event, Claire Louise, said, “Thank you so much, I took a lot of helpful information from this. Really appreciate your time and sharing your knowledge.”

EVENT & READER REPORTS

NATIONS CUP YOUTH FINALS IN OPGLABBEEK, BELGIUM

TEAM LEMIEUX WIN FEI JUMPING NATIONS CUP PONY FINAL

he British Pony Team, competing under the title sponsor banner of Team LeMieux, won the FEI Jumping Nations Cup Pony Final recently in Opglabbeek and they did so in convincing style. Great Britain qualified for the Nations Cup Final Competition after having finished in equal first place alongside Germany and The Netherlands in the Nations Cup First Round earlier in the week. All three nations finished with zero penalties. The Brits carried this fantastic form through to the final and were the only nation able to produce a zero penalty score again, a result which sealed the win. Germany finished in second

place on a total of five penalties with Ireland taking third on six penalties. Megan Li, aged 15, from Buckinghamshire got the team off to a fantastic start when she delivered a superb clear round on board Harry, a 16-year-old bay gelding owned by Alex Li. Megan’s rounds were then mirrored by Tatiane Mauree, aged 14, from Berkshire who secured clear on both days on her ride Horseabout Zibu, a 9year-old bay mare owned by Arlina Mauree. Lila Bremner, aged 16, from Swindon, came into the team of four for the Final Competition and produced an immaculate clear with Lapislazuli, a 9-yearold dun gelding owned by Tessa

Chef d'Equipe Clare Whitaker with the winning Nations Cup Pony Final Team

Bremner. Last up for GB was Claudia Moore, aged 14, from Brentwood, Essex. Claudia

BRENTWOOD’S CLAUDIA MOORE FINISHES SECOND IN PONY GRAND PRIX ourteen -year-old Claudia Moore from Brentwood, Essex produced a fantastic performance to finish in second in the Pony Grand Prix at the FEI Jumping Nations Cup Youth Finals in Opglabbeek. Claudia delivered a superb double clear in 39.12 seconds on board Delfip, a 12-year-old bay mare owned by Katrina Moore. From the forty-three starters, fourteen were able to access the jump off and eight went on to jump a second clear. The top spot was taken by Ireland’s Rhys Williams on K-Little Hero d’18 after they posted a second clear in a time of 38.45 seconds. Claudia’s time of 39.12 seconds was fast enough to relegate Germany’s Ann-Sophie Seidl and Berkzicht Rob into third after they returned across the finish line in 39.96 seconds.

bagged the all-important third clear round on Delflip, a 12year-old bay mare owned by Katrina Moore, ensuring that the team would secure qualification for the Final Competition. Such was the strength of her teammate’s performances, Claudia wasn’t required to jump as the win had already been wrapped up by the three clear rounds produced earlier. Red Morgan, aged 15, from Cheshire was the third rider in and he rode Bodyssee des Avelines, a 12-year-old dark bay. Their round was to be the discard score for the team after they incurred an unfortunate elimination.

CLASSIFIEDS

GBR TEAM NAF JUNIORS FINISH SECOND IN BELGIUM

he British Junior Team, who compete under the title sponsor branding of Team NAF, finished second in their Nations Cup Final in Opglabbeek, with just a fraction of a second between themselves and Germany who took the honours after a nail-biting jump off. With the top six teams contesting the final being invited to come forward, having qualified for it on the Thursday, they all started with a clean sheet and a zero penalty score. Opening for the British team on the final day was Sienna Charles, aged 17 with the 10year-old chestnut mare Chinta van Geluut Z. Jumping a stylish clear they set a great standard for Allana Clutterbuck, aged 18 from Upminster in Essex to follow with the 10-year-old bay gelding Vykinbay owned by Sally Lane. And follow it they did when Allana returned home clear within the time allowed. With two clears in the bag, it was Ben Clark, aged 17 who was next to go with Jancovica. Again it was yet another faultless round for the team when Ben jumped clear to keep Great Britain on a penalty free score with anchor rider Oliver Fletcher, aged 16 on Horst van de Mispelaere not needing to jump as the score couldn’t be bettered. Finishing on a zero penalty score, which was matched by Germany the Brits were then forced into a two-way jump off where both penalties and time would play a factor in deciding the final placings. Yet again, two clears were delivered by the first two riders in the form of Sienna and Allana; performances which were duly matched by Germany and within a marginally faster time. For next to go Ben Clark, it was an unfortunate four penalties which saw GB fall behind Germany who posted a third rider clear. The pressure was then on Oliver’s young shoulders to post not only a clear but also a fast one. He delivered a superb performance to not only return home clear but also as the only rider for the team that was to break the 50 second barrier when he stopped the clock in 49.19 seconds. However, it just wasn’t enough to claim the win which saw Germany take the honours by being just 0.39 seconds ahead.

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