ETN (Equestrian Trade News) – March 2019

Equestrian Trade News

EVERY ONE’S A WINNER Competition gear for a new season

TIME FOR HORSES How busy business people find it

PLUS

• AMTRA accredited SQP CPD feature and quiz • Meet the entrepreneur with the golden touch

2020 NEC, Birmingham, UK 19-21 January www.beta-int.com The Voice of the Equestrian Industry

Main Sponsor

Official Media Partner

ETN is the official media partner of BETA International

March 2019 Volume 43, No 3 Monthly

Be part of the UK’s fastest growing supplement brand Customers want quality products, greater research and above all else evidence that supplements actually work, can you afford to miss out?

Times are changing – it’s time to change with them.

• The only supplement brand with a published, peer reviewed study (FlexAbility – Joint Supplement) • The UK’s Number 1 rated calmer (ProKalm) • The only brand to have won TWO innovation awards (Gut Balancer and GastroKind)

• Rated as “Excellent” with 5* by Trustpilot • Fully UFAS and NOPS certified – we manufacture in our own approved production facility • Endorsed by the UK’s leading Veterinary Surgeons

Here’s what the future looks like: • The biggest investment into Research, Development and Production (£1.1m) • One of the largest marketing campaigns planned for the next three years

• The best margins, tailored to your needs with dedicated account managers* • 2019 Winner of the BETA Equestrian Export Award

“Excellent”

Real people, real reviews Independently rated as the UK’s No. 1 Supplement Company on Trustpilot Quality Assured

We are fully UFAS and NOPS certified

Tel: 0345 5046940 www.sciencesupplements.co.uk *direct accounts only

Have been ordering FlexAbility Plus joint supplements for a year now. We noticed a significant improvement in our cob within first 6 weeks of using it. Company give very sound advice and delivery is speedy. Overall 100%.

Mrs Cindy Buckle

Award Winning Products since our launch in 2014

3

... the magazine for the industry, about the industry, by the industry

ISN’T it amazing how the horse world can be doom laden one minute, then full of hope the next?

Last month, it snowed; swiftly followed by a truly worrying equine flu outbreak that put a stop to horse racing and the fear of God into many show organisers and livery yards. Not what we needed just as a new season was about to begin.

As I write, a fortnight later, the sun is shining, racing is back on, and the daffodils are coming out. I might even take my horses’ rugs off and let them enjoy a skin-to-soil roll. But the best sight of all this week was a horse and rider trotting through our village at gone 5pm, albeit sensibly decked out in hi-viz.

Never mind what’s going on in the wider world, it’s when people can start riding after work again that the Spring season – and product sales - really kick off.

OF course, it’s not essential to ride or own horses to work in our industry. But isn’t it a shame when people who used to enjoy it say they no longer have time?

Admittedly, having horses is an all-compassing, timeconsuming, cash eating hobby - or should I say obsession?

I should know… But few ways of life even come close to comparison.

And, yes, it does take special dedication to fit in horses around a full-time job or running a business. In this issue of ETN you can meet some hardy souls who make it happen.

A reliable alarm clock is a definite prerequisite. This month’s ETN/SMS Saddle Fitter of the Month Helen Reader spends many an early morning training her horses on the beach before most of her customers are out of bed!

Um… maybe it’s those people who are motivated, good organisers and time managers who can succeed at work and enjoy their horses too.

SQPS! Do you feel like you’re back at school or college and cramming for your exams?

Panic will, indeed, be setting in for some ahead of the 30 June deadline, by which AMTRA qualified SQPs must accumulate sufficient CPD points to maintain their qualification.

So ETN is running regular AMTRA accredited SQP CPD features and quizzes between now and then. SQPs can also pick up points at the ETN website – www.equestriantradenews.com – where you’ll find past CPD features.

ETN is the only equestrian trade magazine authorised to run AMTRA accredited CPD – and we’re only too happy to help these hard-working animal health professionals keep their qualifications.

Liz Benwell

CONTENTS

MARCH 2019

NEWS.................................................................... 4 NEWS FEATURE How a BETA International Innovation Award was won....................................................................... 6 PRODUCT NEWS................................................. 10 PEOPLE New jobs and who’s nice to deal with.................. 14 SADDLE FITTER OF THE MONTH Meet this month’s winner................................... 15 LEGAL DIGEST When they throw a sickie.................................... 16 HOOF, LEG AND JOINT PROBLEMS Product to help take them in your stride............ 18 COVER STORY PROFILE Meet the entrepreneur with the golden touch.... 24

TURNING BACK THE PAGES What ETN was reporting five, ten, 20 and 30 years ago...................................................................... 27 BETTER BUSINESS Planning to succeed............................................ 30 COVER STORY TIME FOR HORSES How busy business people find it........................ 32

NATIONAL SADDLERY COMPETITION Results and pictures from the annual awards.... 36 EVERY ONE’S A WINNER COVER STORY Competition gear highlighted............................. 38 Hot stuff: trends for 2019................................... 40 A story of saddlery accessories.......................... 42 WORMING & SQP NEWS...................................... 43 COVER STORY AMTRA ACCREDITED SQP CPD FEATURE & QUIZ................................................. 46

BETA MEMBERS’ PAGE....................................... 49 COUNTY COURT JUDGMENTS............................. 50 Equestrian Trade News

Editor’s Comment

EVERY ONE’S A WINNER Competition gear for a new season

FRONT COVER: Hot stuff… this technical gear for the active rider is

by British equestrian label Equetech. Read what managing director Liz Hayman has to say about this season’s trends and good retailing on page 40.

March 2019 Volume 43, No 3 Monthly

TIME FOR HORSES PLUS How busy businesspeople find it

• AMTRA accredited SQP CPD feature and quiz • The first organic compound equine feeds • Meet the entrepreneur with the golden touch

2020 NEC, Birmingham, UK 19-21 January www.beta-int.com

ETN is the official media partner of BETA International

The Voice of the Equestrian Industry

Main Sponsor

www.equestriantradenews.com

Official Media Partner

EQUESTRIAN TRADE NEWS MARCH 2019

News

4

Wholesale deal on horse towels

Grooming range acquired EVA Marina Böhm, who invented the MagicBrush grooming range, has sold the brand to its long-time distributor, the German wholesaler Albert Kerbl.

MagicBrush’s marketer Matthias Linnert-Kuhn has joined Albet Kerbl too.

“From now on, I will be responsible for strategic brand communication of the whole Albert Kerbl company”, he said.

The colourful MagicBrush collection arrived in the UK in 2012.

It has conical shaped bristles for grooming and massaging, doubles as a sweat-scraper and is machine washable.

TRILANCO has agreed an exclusive six-month wholesale deal for the Henry Wag Equine range.

The wholesaler already distributes the brand’s dog range.

“The dog products have been working really well in rural stores, so it’s great to see that the horse towels have a similar appeal,” said Grantley Rogers of 3P Enterprise, the company behind Henry Wag. The equine range includes the Noodle Glove Towel (pictured) and a Cleaning and Drying Glove.

Insurance company acquired EQUESTRIAN insurance broker Shearwater has been acquired by Global Risk Partners (GRP) for an undisclosed sum.

Hertfordshire based Shearwater Insurance Services was founded in 1992 by Jeremy Lawton, its managing director. He will continue to run the business, while its 36 employees will stay with Shearwater under its new ownership.

Mike Bruce, GRP’s group managing director, commented: “Shearwater is a strong growth prospect with a quality proposition in both equine insurance and other commercial and personal LINES.” Jeremy Lawton added: “GRP already has an excellent track record in our sector, via Lonmar, one of the most famous names in bloodstock insurance.”

Shearwater’s clients will be unaffected by the acquisition, says the company, as cover and business will continue as normal. New insurance facilities can be expected in the near future.

GOING LIKE A ROCKET: After a nationwide search, 19-year-old Rocket owned by Hilary Bowerman and ridden by 12-year-old Holly Marsh from Leicestershire has been chosen as The Face of TopSpec 2019.

Their prizes include £500 worth of TopSpec feed, nutritional support, a professional photo-shoot and Horseware rug.

Holly and the 14.1hh skewbald cob x Arab gelding compete at one day events, representing the Atherstone and District Riding Club and Atherstone branch of the Pony Club at championships.

“Rocket is a super pony and always tries his best. When I tell people how old he is, they don’t believe me,” said Holly. “I’m very confident in the TopSpec feed range; if we have any concerns about his feeding, I call a TopSpec nutritionist who always gives me the best advice.”

ADVERT INDEX

Equestrian Trade News Stockeld East Wing, Park, Wetherby,Park, Stockeld West Yorkshire LS22 4AW Wetherby, Tel: 01937 West Yorkshire 582111 LS22 4AW Fax: 01937 Tel: 01937 582111 582778 – Sales Email: Fax: 01937 sales@equestriantradenews.com 582778 – Sales Website: Email: info@equestriantradenews.com www.equestriantradenews.com Website: www.equestriantradenews.com Publisher: Equestrian Management Consultants Ltd Subscriptions Distributed on a controlled-circulation basis to the Editor: retail trade. Paid-for annual subscriptions are £39.95 Liz Benwell (UK), (Europe), £86.00 (rest of the world).

Email:£73.00 editor@equestriantradenews.com Tel: 0345&6185007 Design Print: G.H. Smith &Sales: Son, Advertising Market Place, Easingwold, Nicki Lewis North Yorkshire Email: sales@equestriantradenews.com YO61 3AB Tel: 01937 582111 Tel: 01347 821329 Fax: Fax: 01937 01347 582778 822576

Email: etn@ghsmith.com Advertising Copy: Web: www.ghsmith.com Nicki Lewis Email: sales@equestriantradenews.com ISSN 1462-9526 Tel: 01937 582111

MARCH 2019 EQUESTRIAN TRADE NEWS

Publisher: Subscriptions Equestrian Management Consultants Ltd basis to Distributed on a controlled-circulation the retail trade. Paid-for annual subscriptions are Editor: £39.95 (UK), £73.00 (Europe), £86.00 (rest of the Liz Benwell world).

Email: editor@equestriantradenews.com Tel: 0345 6185007 is independent of all groups.

The magazine Editorial views expressed in ETN are not Digital Manager: necessarily the official view of any organisation NickiorLewis group.

Email: info@equestriantradenews.com Tel: 01937 582111 Copyright: All material is copyright Equestrian Management Senior Advertising Executive: Consultants Ltd. Beth Crow Email: bethc@beta-int.com Design & Print: Tel: 01937 582111 G.H. Smith & Son, Market582778 Place, Easingwold, Fax: 01937 North Yorkshire The magazine YO61 3ABis independent of all groups.

Editorial views expressed Tel: 01347 821329 in ETN are not necessarily the official Fax: 01347 822576view of any organisation or group.

Email: etn@ghsmith.com Web: www.ghsmith.com Copyright:

All material is copyright Equestrian Management Consultants Ltd. ISSN 1462-9526

Aigle International............................................................28 Allen & Page....................................................................25 BETA International............................................................48 British Horse Feeds...........................................................27 Charles Owen...................................................................29 Classified..........................................................................50 Crafty Ponies....................................................................28 Dengie.............................................................................17 DLF Saddles Co Ltd...........................................................28 Dodson & Horrell..............................................................23 Fairfax Saddles.................................................................37 Falcon Equine T/A Omega Equine......................................11 The Golden Paste Company................................................8 Henry Bell........................................................................21 Horslyx.............................................................................15 Jenkinsons......................................................................6, 9 John Whitaker International..............................................41 Limagrain.........................................................................19 Lintbells...........................................................................29 NAF...................................................................................7 Nettex..............................................................................13 Perry Equestrian...............................................................28 A Poucher & Sons.....................................................22 & 29 Red Gorilla.......................................................................31 Red Horse Products...........................................................20 Saracen Horse Feeds...................................................... OBC SEIB Insurance Brokers........................................................5 Science Supplements....................................................... IFC Snowhill Trade Saddlery...................................................IBC Stubbs England................................................................29 The Animal Health Company.............................................34 TopSpec...........................................................................18 Van Dijck BV....................................................................35 Weatherbeeta..................................................................33 Westgate Labs..................................................................43 Zoetis...............................................................................45

www.equestriantradenews.com

5

CHRISTMAS BONUS: Devon based GS Equestrian has donated £600 each to the Riding for the Disabled (RDA) and the Mare & Foal Sanctuary.

The money was raised via the retailer’s pre-Christmas campaign; 500 customers were offered £10 shopping vouchers with the message that any unspent funds would be diverted to equine charities. Pictured at the RDA’s new National Training Centre in Warwickshire are, from left, Claire Williams, executive director of BETA, Sally Atkinson, RDA fundraising manager, and Anthony Rowe from GS Equestrian. At the 2019 BETA Business awards, GS Equestrian was named SEIB Internet Retailer of the Year.

Retailer failed to keep proper records A RETAILER has been reprimanded for failing to keep proper records for the supply of prescription-only animal medicines. v Aurivo (NI) Ltd, owner of the Homeland Agri store at Dromore Retail Park, Omagh, Co Tyrone, has been issued with an Improvement Notice by the Veterinary Medicines Directorate (VMD).

The VMD has reminded Aurivo that all POM-VPS supplies must be prescribed by a SQP and full records kept of purchaser, product, date of supply, quantity and batch number – and that records must be maintained for at least five years.

POM-VPS products are animal medicines which can only be prescribed by a vet, pharmacist or SQP (suitably qualified person). Many equine wormers, and cat and dog flea treatments fall into the POM-VPS category.

Equestrian Trade Insurance We have specialist cover if you are a manufacturer, retailer or saddle fitter.

Simply give us a call.

HORSE & PONY · HORSEBOX & TRAILER · LIVERY YARDS EQUESTRIAN HOME · MOTOR LIABILITY · BUSINESS · HOME RIDING SCHOOL · WE ALSO INSURE DOGS & CATS

Call 0345 612 0302 www.seib.co.uk South Essex Insurance Brokers Ltd. are authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority.

www.equestriantradenews.com

EQUESTRIAN TRADE NEWS MARCH 2019

L5276_v7

WINNING APPRENTICE HAS AMBITION: Lucy Cushley (26) – winner of the 2019 Abbey England Saddlery Scholarship - hopes one day to set up a training centre for saddlers in Ireland.

Currently based in Northern Ireland and mentored by Master Saddler James Adair, Lucy won £500 to spend on saddlery workshop tools.

Lucy aims to become a Master Saddler and is keen to “bring saddlery back to Ireland… We produce some of the best horses in the world and we need great saddlery.”

Said Richard Brown of Abbey England (pictured with Lucy): “We are thrilled to be able to assist Lucy in her dreams and aspirations to improve the saddle-making industry in Ireland.”

Call SEIB for

News Feature

6

HOW THE AWARD WAS WON

Kate Hore: we wouldn’t have risked changing our product without a clear indication from the trial.

When they chose NAF’s Five Star Magic to win the feed and supplements category, the BETA International Innovation Awards judges were impressed by the research behind the new product. ETN has the inside story.

W

hy change a winning formula? The folk at NAF must surely have asked themselves that when they set out to improve their market leading calmer, Five Star Magic.

“We’ve never been ones to rest on our laurels,” said NAF nutritionist Kate Hore. “We felt with our new formulations we could help more horses in more situations to stay calm and focused. However, we weren’t going to undertake those changes lightly, so we decided to run a trial.”

A team supervised by Dr Andrew Hemmings, a leading equine behaviour researcher at the Royal Agricultural University, Cirencester, took on the task. For the last decade, Dr Hemmings has specialised in understanding what’s happening within the equine brain in gentle, noninvasive ways.

On trial The trial design was a double blind, placebo controlled trial. This widely recognised and robust method rules out the possibility of bias or placebo effect from researchers.

The new formula was trialled over several months on a group of particularly reactive horses. All the horses received, in random order, the then existing NAF Magic, a placebo (with limited active ingredients) and the new formulation in powder and liquid form. Two tests were used.

Spontaneous blink rate: Measuring blink rate has been shown, in many species including horses, to be closely linked to levels of stress hormones within the brain. So by doing this, researchers could see the effect of the four different formulations on those anxious horses’ brains.

The results showed the two new formulations performed particularly well, with significant results being seen even when compared with the action of existing Magic.

Go No-Go test: This test teaches horses to touch a screen when they see a symbol displayed for a food reward. However, they also need to learn when not to touch, as continually touching the screen will not get them their reward. It’s an exciting way of trialling brain behaviour in horses, as it shows they are learning to not react in a negative way, which may be of great benefit to horses with a tendency to spook. Again, results showed the benefit of the new formulations.

The trial was accepted for publication at the International Society of Equitation Science held in Rome last September.

Independent analysis of the trial showed that the two improved formulations both performed very well - even showing advances over the ‘old’ MARCH 2019 EQUESTRIAN TRADE NEWS

Magic formulation.

Both new formulations trialled form the basis of the new Five Star Magic range; with one trial formulation forming New Magic Powder, and the other going into New Magic Liquid and New Instant Magic.

“We knew how good the classic Magic was, so it was always going to be a risk to change that formulation,” said Kate Hore. “And we would not have changed our product without a clear indication from the trial.”

What the scientist says Dr Hemmings confirmed that, while anecdotal reports of calmers’ efficacy are widespread, to date there’s little scientific evidence.

“To our knowledge,” he added, “this is the first equine study to demonstrate favourable effects of a calming feed supplement on indicators of brain activity.”

Find out more from this video www.naf-equine.eu/uk/believeinmagic/

“A well-researched product” The BETA International Awards, sponsored by ETN, are adjudicated by an independent panel of experts in their respective fields.

Here’s what the judges had to say about new, improved NAF Magic: “This is a well-researched and presented product, clearly labelled and with instructions that are easy to understand. We were impressed with the depth of research and development that has gone into the new formula.”

About the winning product Magic is a magnesium based calmer. As magnesium acts on muscle tension, a deficient horse may appear ‘tight’ in his way of going and express excitability or a lack of confidence, says NAF. However, new, improved Magic is more than magnesium; it also contains a blend of herbs chosen for their traditional use in supporting confidence and concentration. It’s this unique blend of herbal ingredients known to support behaviour, help relax muscle tissue and support concentration that combines its expertise so well with the magnesium base.

Magic is safe to compete on and does not produce a sedative response or effect. RRPs are from £23.99 for 750g.

www.equestriantradenews.com

For new sales and a new, proven 7

trainability believe in

New & IMPROVED NAF recommends Magic

• • • •

Calm, concentrated and confident Trainability No sedative effect Supporting stress responses

WINNER

FOR INDEPENDENT TRIAL RESULTS

www.naf-equine.eu/uk/believeinmagic For more details please contact your NAF Area Sales Manager, or the NAF Sales Office on 01600 710726 or email info@naf-uk.com www.equestriantradenews.com

naf-equine.eu/uk

EQUESTRIAN TRADE NEWS MARCH 2019

8

Flu outbreak: common sense required AN equine flu outbreak has given anyone who comes into contact with horses a sharp reminder about biosecurity – now and in the future, says BETA. As ETN went to press, a total of 16 locations in England and Scotland had had confirmed cases of equine flu between 1 January and 12 February. Two were in racing yards.

Racing resumed on 13 February after a six-day shutdown.

The Animal Health Trust (AHT) continued to analyse samples taken by swab from around 3,000 racehorses across the country plus suspected cases in non-Thoroughbreds.

The virus was reported to be spreading across northern Europe - with the Republic of Ireland, France, Belgium and the Netherlands affected. There were concerns for the imminent start of the Thoroughbred breeding season, and this month’s Cheltenham Festival (12 – 15 March).

Experts from the AHT explained that while flu is endemic among UK horses, the racing shutdown was necessary because of fears over the Florida Clade 1 strain of the virus, which originated in North America.

Visiting yards on business For the equestrian trade, the quandary was how to achieve a balance between encouraging equestrian activity and businesses to thrive while managing the risk of spreading the virus.

While calling for common sense to prevail, BETA issued advice for those businesses receiving equipment – for example rugs for washing or clipper blades for sharpening - or visiting yards, say for saddle fitting.

The virus is spread through close contact or proximity (up to 20 metres) and will persist for some time after contact (hours potentially not days), is BETA’s veterinary advice.

In the case of rugs, clippers and other equipment being brought into store for cleaning, sharpening or repair, anyone touching these items who may also be in contact with horses should wash their hands thoroughly after handling with an antiviral substance available as gels, wipes or tablets and liquid for dilution.

Many antibacterial washes are also anti-viral, so the small print should be checked. If a substance or wipes claim to kill the human flu, then it will have the same effect on equine flu and thus do the necessary job.

BETA’s executive director Claire Williams said the outbreak highlights the importance of biosecurity for all businesses coming into contact with equines.

“If you or members of staff visit yards, then please use common sense – now and in the future. Whilst this flu outbreak raises specific questions, biosecurity precautions should be taken whenever visiting yards,” she said.

BETA suggests the following protocol: 1. Before going to a yard call, check its health status and ensure that there are no horses coughing or with snotty noses.

2. Avoid or postpone visits to yards where there are signs of illness.

3. Sensible biosecurity measures should be taken as a precaution if visiting yards, such as washing hands thoroughly with anti-viral washes or wipes following contact or close proximity with each horse.

4. Any kit that has touched or been in proximity with horses should also be wiped.

5. The same applies to clothing where there is evidence of dirt, spit or nasal discharges on them. Either change outer layers, wipe down with wipes or wear disposable covers/overalls.

Want more news?

SIGN up to receive ETN’s weekly e-newsletter. It delivers breaking news and the latest headlines straight to your inbox. And it’s free.

Find out more at www.equestriantradenews.com www.equestriantradenews.com

9

OBITUARY JOHN WELLS JOHN WELLS, who has died following six years battling cancer, had been in the equine and animal health trade for many years.

He was 76.

During his working life, John represented Beecham Animal Health and Westgate. Then for more than 20 years until his retirement, he was with Battle, Hayward & Bower (Battles) as an area account manager.

John – affectionately known as ‘The Groover’ - had a big passion for football. He had been a professional player in his younger years, and later became a keen supporter of Boston United.

John was well respected by clients, colleagues and friends and will be sadly missed. Thoughts and best wishes go to his widow Jackie and their family.

NEWS IN BRIEF • BLUE Chip is to continue its sponsorship of the Blue Chip British Showjumping Pony Newcomers Championship for a further three years.

Last year saw the feed company’s 20th of support for the series which has a HOYS final. “We love how the class has helped so many young riders on their way to future stardom,” said Blue Chip’s founder Clare Blaskey. Pictured are previous winners Jessica Howard and Tinkas Gentleman Jim. (Photo: 1st Class Images) • THE organisers of Spoga Horse have confirmed their intention to continue with twice yearly shows in Cologne, Germany. “No changes are currently planned,” said Catja Caspary of Koelnmesse, the trade shows’ venue. Last month (February) saw Spoga Spring switch its schedule to run a day earlier on the Saturday, Sunday and Monday.

• SPILLERS has donated £3,038 to Redwings Horse Sanctuary to help the charity feed its senior horses and ponies. The feed brand contributed 30p for every promotional bag of its new Spillers Senior Complete Care Mix, Spillers Senior Super-Mash and Spillers Supple + Senior Balancer sold.

• Farrier turned event rider Alex Bragg has a new sponsor in Connolly’s Red Mills. The company is now feeding Team Bragg horses based at the Somerset yard run by Alex and his wife Simmone.

www.equestriantradenews.com

Product News Spring hat promotion

10 A first in compound feed THUNDERBROOK Equestrian has become the only UK organic compound feed supplier.

The company’s Organic Fusion and Organic Herbalite are accredited by The Soil Association.

Organic Fusion (pictured) combines Alpine fibre, linseed, herbs, flowers, fruits and vegetables plus an organic prebiotic. Vitamins, minerals, amino acids and a nutritional yeast are included. Organic Fusion can be made into a mash.

Organic Herbalite is a blend of hay from UK organic meadows and oat straw with added mint and fennel. The low sugar, low starch product is ideal for horses and ponies that gain weight easily.

ZEBRA Products, uvex’s UK distributor, is offering a free hat bag (RRP £14.95) with every Suxxeed helmet order. The offer continues while stocks last.

Suxxeed helmets are also on a ‘buy five, get one free’ offer – with the cheapest helmet free. This promotion is available until the end of March.

The Uvex Suxxeed riding helmet collection comes in two shell sizes. RRPs are from £215.96.

Why dogs are smiling TWO clinical studies on dogs have shown that ProDen PlaqueOff Powder significantly reduces plaque and tartar formation.

Now the product has been awarded a seal of approval by the Veterinary Oral Health Council (VOHC).

“I’m thrilled. This will allow ProDen PlaqueOff as well as ProDen PlaqueOff Dental Bites dog treats to be carried by veterinary practices owned by commercial companies that have a policy of offering only VOHC-accepted oral hygiene products,” said Håkan Lagerberg, CEO of Swedencare.

The studies also showed that there was a 67% reduction in gingivitis in the PlaqueOff group compared with the control group.

Tradition gets technical

Organic accreditation Stewart Jervis is from The Soil Association, the body that accredits the majority of organic products in the UK. He explained that Thunderbrook’s Organic Fusion and Organic Herbalite underwent verification of ingredients, production and packaging to achieve certified organic status.

“The whole process has to be organic,” said Stewart. “Thunderbrook has been subject to the most rigorous inspections to ensure every element of these products is traceable, GM-free and made using no herbicides or insecticides.”

The Soil Association certifies 70% of all organic produce in the UK and works with supermarkets such as Tesco through to small artisan food producers. To remain accredited, companies and their production and packaging processes are re-inspected a minimum of once a year.

“We are always happy to give advice to companies, but the actual inspection is completely objective and 10% are unannounced,” says Stewart.

“One of my personal criteria is ‘would I buy it and would I eat it?’”

A common reason for failure to reach organic standards, he added, is being unable to verify the source and compliance of raw materials.

The Soil Association was founded in 1946 and, to this day, it remains a charity with the remit of putting something back into organic beliefs.

Certification costs companies between £600 and £700 certification fee, plus 0.3% of turnover on an on-going basis.

• The Soil Association certifies other organic horse feed companies.

Itching for answers?

NEW Technical & Traditional (‘T&T’) saddles from Ideal and WRS feature adjustable gullet plates to allow for horses changing shape.

“The quality and fit that Ideal can offer on top of the adjustable design will really help these saddles to stand out,” says James Hitchen of the Walsall manufacturer.

“While the price point ensures that the T&T offers a high spec finish that is affordable for the average horse rider.”

The T&T range spans four models; dressage, jump (the mono jump is pictured), cross country and general purpose. Delivery is due to begin in May. MARCH 2019 EQUESTRIAN TRADE NEWS

HELP your customers beat the itch before it starts, with Nettex Summer Freedom Salve Complete. The unique formulation helps repel insects and biting flies.

Applying it regularly to potentially itchy areas before the midges come out in the early Spring gives the best chance of success.

If midges have already managed to get to an unfortunate equine, its soothing properties may help ease irritation, reduce rubbing and therefore encourage hair regrowth.

The weather resistant formula should be applied once a week in most cases. A 600ml tub (RRP £32.25) lasts up to eight weeks. A 300ml tub has an RRP of £17.50. www.equestriantradenews.com

11

OMEGA EQUINE

We take care of You....

So You can Take Care of Your Customers

• Great Margins • Comprehensive Range • Small MOQ’s • Strong Marketing Campaign • Full Support in Person & by phone • UFAS & BETA NOPS Assurance omegaequine.co.uk : 01798 817603 Specialists in Equine Supplements www.equestriantradenews.com

EQUESTRIAN TRADE NEWS MARCH 2019

Product News Neatly done

12 Luxury and fun THE new Rhinegold Luxe range in black and natural thick fur pile is now in stock at Snowhill.

These luxurious saddlery accessories are fully lined with non-slip material plus 0.3mm foam for a really super-soft feel.

And, just for fun, this month (March) sees the addition of turquoise and raspberry options. Girth sleeves pictured right.

THE warranty slip and sachet that come with all new Amerigo saddles is now being supplied in a neat leather pouch.

As well as looking smart, the new warranty packs protect the saddles from being scratched by sharp tags. Amerigo is distributed by Zebra Products.

Conditioning feed on offer EQUERRY is offering £2 off its Conditioning Mash at participating retailers throughout this month (March) while promotional stocks last.

It’s a great promotion for customers whose horses are a bit light on condition after the colder weather.

Says Audrey Muirhead whose horse Skye won the Equerry Horse of the Year Award: “Skye lives out and Equerry Conditioning Mash helps her to keep her condition throughout the winter months.”

Audrey also feeds the non-heating product to her other two horses, aged 26 and 24. “They all love it and it's so easy to feed,” she adds.

Equerry Conditioning Mash is a quick-soaking mash with low starch levels and a good level of protein for muscle development and topline.

Highly-digestible fibre sources include sugar beet; while oil and linseed promote condition and a shiny coat.

Yeast is included to promote a healthy digestive system, while there are added vitamins and minerals including magnesium. The normal RRP is £12.95.

MARCH 2019 EQUESTRIAN TRADE NEWS

Build a virtual saddle A NEW tool from Frank Baines Saddlery allows riders to create their dream customised virtual saddle before buying.

There are thousands of variations to choose from when using the ‘Build My Baines’ tool. Saddles can be viewed at different angles, and there are choices of seats, rear gussets, knee pads, back cantles, back cantle welts, seat welts and stitching.

Said Garry Baines, director at Frank Baines Saddlery: “The saddle configurator tool is a great concept and one that we hope our customers will enjoy using to create something individual.”

New product, new look IT’S so Silky Serum is new from NAF. While the brand’s Stable Hands and Wound Cream have been given a smart new look.

Small but mighty, It’s so Silky Serum packs a punch when it comes to untangling manes and tails. It leaves hair shiny and soft, with no residue. The RRP is £10.99 for 100ml.

New look Wound Cream is a natural first aid cream to support the healing of minor cuts and wounds. It comes in a convenient dispenser for easy, hygienic application directly to the wound. The RRP is £9.99 for 100ml.

Your customers can give their dry, sore, hard-working hands a treat with NAF’s Stable Hands, an absorbent and moisturising hand cream. Also given a fresh presentation, this popular product has an RRP of £4.99 for 100ml. www.equestriantradenews.com

13

www.equestriantradenews.com

EQUESTRIAN TRADE NEWS MARCH 2019

14

People

• Danielle Gautrey, one of

Dengie’s area sales managers, is to run the London Marathon. Plucky Danielle has already completed the Birmingham half marathon (pictured) and takes on ‘the big one’ next month to raise money for TOFS, a charity for children born unable to swallow. You can support Danielle at https://mydonate.bt.com/fundraisers/daniellegautrey1 Katie Nash

Jake Taylor

We’re all here to make money… but the best business people are as polite and fair as they are determined and firm.

So to celebrate all that’s good about the people in our trade, ETN’s Beth Crow has chosen the winner of our latest ‘Nice to deal with’ award. Your prize of a luxury hamper is on its way – enjoy!

THEY’RE SO NICE TO DEAL WITH… • Peter Cadwallader of UK shop fittings supplier Dragon Display.

• Beth says: “Peter is always clear and concise about what he needs, so it’s always a pleasure to do business with him. Dragon Display and its range of UK shop fitting products bring something genuinely useful to the equestrian trade. Peter also contributed an inspiring article to ETN (December 2018 issue) on making best use of retail display space.”

• Publisher D J Murphy

• Katie Nash and Jake Taylor have joined Zebra Products as southern

sales executives. The distributor has also taken on Sally Bacon to cover maternity leave as northern sales executive.

Katie, who has previously worked for Zebra Products, has owned her dressage horse April Magic for more than 12 years. Jake is a former professional dressage rider who worked for Olympian Carl Hester for four years before moving to his new sales job.

Jake and Katie are sharing the 11 strong Zebra portfolio of brands between them as they cover everywhere south of Birmingham, from Cornwall to Kent.

Sally previously worked for Zebra Products five years ago for six years before leaving to live in France. She is looking after the Veredus, Sprenger, Bucas, Fleck and Konig brands in north of England.

Nice to deal with...

Jo Browne

Rebecca Philpot

has welcomed new recruits and returning staff.

Rebecca Philpot has joined Horse&Rider magazine as assistant editor. She was previously with Redpin for four years and is a showing enthusiast and showjumper.

Late last year, Jo Browne took over as editor of PONY, sister publication to Horse&Rider. With two pony mad daughters, Jo has all the credentials to edit D J Murphy’s longest running title. She used to work on Horse magazine too.

Meanwhile, Louise Kittle, editor of Horse&Rider and editor-in-chief of PONY magazine, and marketing manager Gemma O’Neil returned from maternity leave in January.

• Gatehouse sponsored the late,

great show jumper Tim Stockdale for a number of years. And now the hat brand has passed on the mantle to Tim and his wife Laura’s son Joe Stockdale, a talented young rider. Joe was at BETA International representing Team Stockdale and supporting his new sponsor.

• Sarah Keenan has joined Blue

Chip Feed as commercial executive.

Her remit includes supporting the balancer and supplement specialist’s trade customers.

Sarah has previously worked as a buyer for engineering companies.

She has a B. Eng. (Hons) degree in manufacturing systems with business and is a Member of the Chartered Institute of Purchase and Supply.

With her equestrian hat on, Sarah has BHS qualifications and recently graduated in equine science from Derby College Equestrian Centre. She owns four horses and enjoys competing and leisure riding. She is married with two sons.

• Animal nutrition specialist and

premix manufacturer Premier Nutrition has appointed Kenny Shand as head of supply chain.

His role encompasses operations across two manufacturing sites, including the company’s newly commissioned Fradley Park factory.

MARCH 2019 EQUESTRIAN TRADE NEWS

Lisa Gilby

Zelina Coffey

Clare Girardot

Clare Fletcher

• Science Supplements has appointed a new sales team.

Lisa Gilby, who becomes regional sales director for the south-west, has more than 20 years’ experience in the industry having previously worked for Baileys and Horslyx. She is a BHSII (intermediate instructor) who competes in eventing, team chasing and show jumping with her horse Paddy.

Zelina Coffey joins Science Supplements as regional sales director for the south-east from Dengie. A BHSAI (assistant instructor), she competes in dressage with her Dutch warmblood mare.

The new regional sales director for the UK’s southern counties is Clare Girardot. The Exeter University graduate has worked for Zoetis and Mole Valley – and enjoys eventing her horse Biggles.

Clare Fletcher, Science Supplements’ new regional sales director for the eastern region, is studying on the MSc equine science programme at the University of Edinburgh. She competes in dressage and veteran classes with her 18 year old horse Lennie.

www.equestriantradenews.com

15

Saddle Fitter of the Month

Ce

g n i t a r leb

THE BEST SADDLE FITTERS…

This award, presented in conjunction with the Society of Master Saddlers (SMS), recognises those whose good practise is making a difference to horses, riders and the saddlery industry.

Helen Reader checking the fit of a saddle (Photo: Sian Smith Photography)

ETN SADDLE FITTER OF THE MONTH:

Helen Reader NOMINATED BY: Nikki Newcombe, of Bliss of London, who says: “Helen really does have the full skill-set in our industry.

She is a competitive rider and also recently achieved Master Saddle Fitter status to add to her Master Saddler, Master Bridle Maker and Master Harness Maker [qualifications] that’s a lot of hard work and dedication.

“Helen also has the skills to communicate and engage well with clients. This rapport was highlighted two years ago when we ran an open social media competition for riders to vote for their favourite saddle fitter.

Of more than 2,000 votes from around the world, Helen won.”

ABOUT: It was a visit to the local saddlers’ workshop when her first pony’s saddle needed a repair which inspired a five-yearold Helen into a career in saddlery. The saddle required a new seat and, after being allowed to help select the leather, Helen made regular visits to the workshop to see the saddle through the repair process.

She was bitten by the bug and the rest is history…

Helen completed an equestrian business management course at Berkshire College of Agriculture, gaining an Advanced GNVQ in Business and her BHSAI. Two years followed as a working pupil at Earlsway Farm International Dressage Training Centre in Suffolk. www.equestriantradenews.com

Helen’s saddlery training started at Cordwainers College in Hackney and was completed with an apprenticeship at Pointings Saddlery in Bath and The Saddlery Training Centre in Salisbury with Mark Romain.

In 2004, Helen set up HR Saddlery in Carmarthenshire specialising in bespoke bridlework and saddle fitting. Her saddle fitting knowledge was recognised in 2014 when she was appointed as a saddle fitting assessor for the SMS saddle fitting qualification.

A member of the SMS executive committee, Helen has been part of a working group with City & Guilds developing the new SMS Bridle Fitting qualification which will be launched later this year.

Amazingly, Helen makes time to compete her two 17hh grey geldings, enjoying success at riding club national level in dressage, show jumping and eventing.

Rising early, Helen schools under floodlights in the winter. But as soon as the daylight allows, she completes a 15km training session on her local beach a couple of times a week, getting home and off for a day’s saddle fitting before most of her customers are awake.

Reflecting on her career, Helen commented: “The SMS has equipped me with the knowledge and experience required to offer my clients the highest level of service for both horse and rider – ensuring a correct and comfortable fit for every discipline. I am so privileged to combine a job I love with my passion for horses.”

The best view: Helen and her horse Tins enjoy a sunrise on Pembrey Sands

Legal Digest

16

WHEN THEY THROW A SICKIE…

Adam Costello of Croner answers a reader’s query about fake sickness absence.

Sunbathing or sick? A thorough investigation will be required to determine if company rules have been breached.

Q. One of my employees submitted a holiday request for a week’s annual leave the week before Christmas.

Unfortunately, their contract of employment states that no holiday can be taken then as we are so busy. Therefore, we refused the request.

On the day the holiday would have started, the employee rang in sick, saying they had a stomach bug. They then rang in sick again every day for the next week. The employee returned to work sporting a noticeable tan.

What should I do about this?

A.Though this situation is bound to raise suspicion, employers should not immediately jump to the obvious conclusion.

There could be a genuine reason for this absence and a return to work interview should be held to gain a full understanding of exactly what their illness was.

Though the clock cannot be turned back and this absence avoided, conducting such an interview will be a deterrent to any other employees. Employees who are asked to explain and identify their sickness in a faceto-face meeting with their senior or manager may find it difficult to remember their sickness story or see it as detrimental to falsely claiming sickness absence.

The reality of this incident is that it is likely the employee has lied about being sick in order to take the refused holiday.

Deceptively claiming sickness may be specifically outlined as an act of misconduct in your employment handbooks or documentation, especially if the sickness absence has triggered the start of any occupational sick pay schemes.

Where there is no explicit statement on this, employers can rely on a breach of the implied term of mutual trust and confidence.

A breach of the trust between employer and employee by actions of the employee will be sufficient to take action in these circumstances.

Before taking action, you need to have a reasonable belief that the employee is lying and was falsely claiming sickness to take time off to fulfil their requested holiday. This belief does not have to be absolute or unequivocal; it simply needs to be reasonable based on the evidence available to you.

To gain a reasonable belief, an investigation should be carried out. Is there any evidence available other than the refused holiday request and the employee’s noticeable tan? For example, has another employee come forward and given a statement that the employee has been bragging about how they got away with a week’s unauthorised holiday in the sun? If so, what was the motivation for this statement?

Could the noticeable tan simply be the use of beauty products?

In the return to work interview did the employee sufficiently make you believe that they had been suffering from a stomach bug?

Carrying out a reasonable investigation will allow you to review any evidence and make a suitable conclusion.

If, following the investigation, you have formed a reasonable belief that the employee was falsely claiming sickness, you can take appropriate action for a breach of the company rules.

Where the employee has a short amount of service with you, it may be possible for this disciplinary action to result in a fair dismissal.

However, for employees with over two years’ service who have not been subject to any previous disciplinary sanctions, it is likely that a dismissal for this first time offence will be unfair.

Instead, you should impose a sanction which is reasonable in the circumstances and which can increase in seriousness following any further rule breaches.

• Next month: long and short term sickness absences and how to deal with them.

Has the employee been bragging about a week’s unauthorised holiday in the sun?

MARCH 2019 EQUESTRIAN TRADE NEWS

Speak to an expert: Croner is a world-class workplace business partner for the thousands of organisations it supports daily, through market-leading advice and services. With over 75 years’ experience in HR and employment law compliance, support and systems, Croner’s consultants have an average of 15 years’ industry experience. For advice about sickness absence in the workplace, call the Croner advice line on 0844 561 8133 today. www.equestriantradenews.com

17

“Healthy Hooves Molasses Free is perfect for my Connies”

Emma Massingale, Free Rider

“Dengie Healthy Hooves Molasses Free is perfect for my Connies! Whenever we go on our adventures I know that their Dengie diet will keep their hooves and digestive systems healthy and them happy!”

Emma Massingale, Free Rider

Low Calorie - Hoof Health - Low Sugar Discover more at www.dengie.com

0845 345 5115* *

call charges apply, see website for details

www.equestriantradenews.com

EQUESTRIAN TRADE NEWS MARCH 2019

18

Horses’ hooves, legs and joints come under scrutiny as the competition season gets underway and the Spring grass appears. Some owners will be looking for products to ward off wear and tear; others are concerned about laminitis. These products can help.

TAKING IT IN YOUR STRIDE

Need Advice?

Hoof, Leg and...

Full support package

Delami Daioni, a fit and healthy pony who is a very good-doer and is therefore fed on TopSpec AntiLam. Photograph by Equinational

TopSpec AntiLam • • •

• • • •

Free feeding and management advice from the TopSpec Multiple-Award-Winning Helpline.

The highly successful multi-supplement that you can recommend to customers with confidence.

TopSpec AntiLam includes a unique 5-way approach to nutritional support for horses and ponies prone to, being treated for or recovering from laminitis.

Very palatable, pelleted, can be fed on its own or with a low sugar chop e.g. TopChop Lite.

Contains effective levels of vitamins, minerals and yeast pre- and pro-biotics.

Used and recommended by veterinary surgeons, farriers and thousands of horse owners.

Economical to feed, a 15kg sack lasts a 500kg horse for 4 weeks, or a 250kg pony for 8 weeks.

SPILLERS has products to support joints, hooves and the laminitis prone.

Supple + Senior Balancer is ideal for seniors and those requiring joint support as it contains glucosamine, MSM and omega 3 fatty acids, with prebiotics and probiotics for digestive health.

It’s a great choice for horses that keep their condition well and is low in starch and sugar so suitable for those prone to laminitis. It provides a broad spectrum of vitamins and minerals and is high in antioxidants too.

Spillers Original Multi Balancer provides the nutrients needed every day as well as digestive, immune and hoof support. It contains 15mg of biotin per 500g serving, an amount proven to support hoof health.

Rich in amino acids to support muscle development and topline, and high in antioxidants, probiotic live yeast and prebiotic MOS support digestive health.

Spillers Happy Hoof is a low calorie, short-chop forage ideal for those prone to laminitis.

It has all the vitamins and minerals they need, plus biotin for hoof condition. It’s approved by the Laminitis Trust.

Meanwhile, Spillers Happy Hoof Molasses-Free is a low calorie fibre blend with garlic and rapeseed oil and no added sugar. It contains biotin to support hoof growth and is approved by the Laminitis Trust.

In good shape

®

CREATED WITHOUT COMPROMISE by experienced equine nutritionists

Multiple Award Winner for ‘Excellence in Nutritional Advice and Customer Service’

01845 565 030 (062) 85401 www.topspec.com Collect

®

Tokens

for product and merchandise

#FedonTopSpec

Redeem your TopSpec tokens at www.topspec.com/tokens

SHAPE-UP from Saracen Horse Feeds is designed for gooddoers on a calorie-controlled diet who need additional slow release energy for work.

The high fibre, low sugar, low starch muesli balancer includes Acid Buf to help maintain a healthy digestive environment.

It also offers the recommended daily intake of biotin to support horn quality (30mg/kg).

In addition, the ration contains omega 3 fatty acids to support joint health and mobility. The RRP is £19.50 for 20kg. www.equestriantradenews.com

19

...Joint problems

Watch those waistlines DENGIE Healthy Hooves Molasses Free is a nutritionally complete, low-calorie, high fibre feed containing essential nutrients for healthy hooves.

Ideal for leisure horses and ponies, and those that need to watch their waistlines, it contains just 2.5% sugar - which is found naturally in the fibrous ingredients.

Starch levels are also extremely low, at just 1.5%.

A full range of B vitamins, including biotin, is included at levels research has shown to be effective at maximising hoof health.

Highly palatable with garlic and pellets for interest and taste, Dengie Healthy Hooves Molasses Free is independently approved by The Laminitis Trust.

The RRP is £13.43 for 20kg.

Safe Spring feeding SPEEDI-BEET is a highly nutritious micronized (cooked) beet pulp feed.

It provides an excellent source of digestible fibre and is suitable for overweight horses and ponies, and those prone to, being treated for, or recovering from laminitis.

Speedi-Beet can be soaked and ready to use in just ten minutes and is extremely palatable. It is also starch free and unmolassed, making it 95% sugar free.

Feeding Speedi-Beet before turnout can help stabilise the ingestion of sugars present in Spring grass, says brand owner British Horse Feeds.

This versatile product can be fed in small amounts to overweight horses as a carrier for a supplement, in larger quantities to a poor doer for weight gain, or to working and competition horses that need extra energy.

Speedi-Beet carries the BETA feed assurance mark, indicating it as suitable for horses and ponies prone to equine gastric ulcer syndrome (EGUS). The RRP is around £12.50 - £13.50 for 20kg.

Well oiled KEY-3 Oil from Keyflow contains cold-pressed British linseed oil and rapeseed oil, sustainably sourced salmon oil and garlic. It comes in one, five or 20 litre packs.

It’s formulated to help create the optimum omega 3:6 ratio in the equine diet, and is relevant to horses with mobility issues.

“Key-3 Oil offers a wide range of benefits, but the fact that it is high in long chain omega 3 fatty acids in particular makes it a useful supplement for those looking to support supple joints,” says Cam Price of Keyflow. www.equestriantradenews.com

Nutritionally balanced mixtures for paddocks, gallops & haylage For more information on the complete range or for management and establishment advice, please email your full address details to: enquiries@limagrain.co.uk

Free book let!

Hoof, Leg and Joint problems

20

When laminitis looms…

Low sugar, low starch

TOPSPEC AntiLam is a pelleted multi-supplement designed to provide nutritional support for those prone to, being treated for, or recovering from laminitis. It’s used and recommended by nutritionists, vets and farriers.

Most overweight ponies, and some overweight horses, are susceptible to laminitis, as are horses and ponies diagnosed with Equine Metabolic Syndrome (EMS), Insulin Dysregulation (ID) and/or Cushings (PPID).

AntiLam combines several supplements with a high fibre, very low-calorie carrier to make it palatable. Long term trials at Middle Park Laminitis Research Unit showed that horses and ponies on restricted/ poor grazing do not gain any weight when fed AntiLam. It can also be used successfully as part of a caloriecontrolled diet when weight loss is required.

EQUIGLO Quick Soak 10 Minute Beet is a fantastic source of fibre for all horses and ponies, particularly those prone to, or at risk from, laminitis.

Made from Britishgrown, non-GM unmolassed beet flakes, it is low in sugar and starch, and helps to maintain good stomach and digestive tract health.

EquiGlo Quick Soak 10 Minute Beet provides an excellent supply of nonheating, steady energy for working horses and ponies.

It can be used as a direct replacement for starchy, cereal-based feeds or as a partial replacement when forage is limited or of poor quality.

It should be soaked for ten minutes before feeding – using hot water reduces soaking time to five minutes. It can be fed up to a maximum of 0.5kg per 100kg body weight; that's 2.5kg of feed for a 500kg horse, for example.

EquiGlo Quick Soak 10 Minute Beet is created by Henry Bell & Co (Grantham); the RRP is £9.95 for 18kg.

Feeding guide This multi-supplement is so palatable that it can be fed from the hand to horses and ponies at pasture to provide vital nutritional support.

AntiLam should be fed on its own with forage. The forage can be in the form of late-cut hay and/or unmolassed chops such as TopChop Lite, TopChop Zero, controlled grazing, or a combination of these, depending on the individual circumstances.

Part of missing link discovered

INNOVATIVE HOOF CARE SUPPORTING THE CARE OF: • Foot odour and tissue blackening • White line separation • Deep central sulcus splits • Grass / sand cracks • Brittle feet • Abscess cavities

www.redhorseproducts.co.uk MARCH 2019 EQUESTRIAN TRADE NEWS

RESEARCHERS in Australia have identified a possible link between high levels of insulin and equine laminitis.

Their study, recently been published in the research journal PeerJ, investigated the effects of insulin on equine hoof lamellar cells in the laboratory.

The research was conducted by the University of Melbourne’s Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural Science in conjunction with the Waltham Equine Studies Group, which underpins the science behind the Spillers brand.

High levels of the hormone insulin have been known for some time to cause acute endocrine laminitis. This is the most common form of the condition, seen when some horses and ponies graze lush pasture or consume a starch or sugar-rich diet, or when they develop PPID (pituitary pars intermedia dysfunction, also known as Cushing’s syndrome).

Many equines at risk of laminitis produce large spikes of insulin in their blood stream after consuming meals high in non-structural carbohydrates (in particular starch and simple sugars) which indicates that this could be the way in which they succumb to acute endocrine laminitis.

Further work is ongoing. www.equestriantradenews.com

21

Looking after legs Dr Judith Maxwell MRCVS BVSc BSc (Hons), Dodson & Horrell international veterinary and nutritional advisor, has some sound advice to pass onto your customers.

Hoof problems - Generally, if hoof cracks are coming from the ground and tracking up, they are easier to treat, and in time usually grow out. If they originate from the top of the hoof (coronary band) and track down, they often take more treatment, time and effort to heal.

- Brittle hooves can be breed-related, but the environmental impact of the soil, moisture and hoof care can make a susceptible horse more prone to problems. Stony ground and, in particular, small grit stones can work their way into the white line around the edge of the hoof, often causing abscesses.

- Biotin supplemented at 15-20 mg/day for a 500kg horse, can help with hoof quality and growth. If restricting intake to aid weight loss, consider a balancer able to deliver an equivalent biotin amount.

- If thinking of going barefoot, or if your horse has had foot problems such as bruising, loss of shoes, abscesses, laminitis or seedy toe, use a good qualify hoof supplement.

Leg problems - Horses’ legs are fragile so keep fencing, posts and gates well maintained because this is one of the most common ways horses obtain traumatic leg injuries (wounds).

- If your horse injures its leg, no matter how small, seek veterinary advice. Sometimes the biggest problems come from the very smallest puncture wounds.

- Always clip and scrub (preferably with clean water, diluted disinfectant scrub and clean cotton wool) the wound, as this helps reveal the full extent of the problem.

- Swellings on the back of the legs between the knee and the fetlock can indicate tendon and ligament problems. In these cases, put the horse in the box and consider placing a supportive bandage with padding unless or until veterinary advice can be sought.

Joint problems - Swellings on joints can sometimes highlight underlying problems within the joint, like osteoarthritis. These swellings can be present long before lameness sets in.

- If a wound involves a joint, a slimy yellow fluid will leak from the wound, much like olive oil… always seek veterinary advice.

- Joint supplements are not all made equal, there is a huge variance in the concentration and quality of the ingredients. Ask your vet or nutritionist for advice.

- Glucosamine, hyaluronic acid (HA), and chondroitin are the most commonly used ingredients in joint supplements and have a fair amount of research into them.

All the tools SUPPLEMENT brand Cavalor has several tools to help your customers tackle hoof, leg and joint problems.

Cavalor Hoof Aid Special comes as pellets containing vitamins and a high concentration of biotin to support hoof growth, together with trace elements, amino acids and MSM. It’s available in a 5kg bucket (RRP £72) and a 20kg bag (RRP £192).

For competition horses’ tired muscles, joints and tendons, FreeBute Gel contains eight essential oils, including eucalyptus, lavender and tea tree - known for their relaxing and cooling effect. The gel can be used before or after exercise. It’s available in a 200ml tube (RRP £28) or a 2 litre pump dispenser (RRP £196).

Introduced last year, Cavalor ArtiTec is clinically proven to support joints.

In a trial by equine vets, it improved lameness in 74% of cases.

It combines turmeric, boswellia serrata, feverfew and pineapple with joint health nutrients (glucosamine, MSM, chrondroitin, hyaluronic acid and blackcurrant extract). ArtiTec is available in a 2 litre bottle (RRP £157.60). www.equestriantradenews.com

Quick-Soaking Unmolassed Beet Flakes

RRP

£9.95

Low starch & sugar l Ideal for horses & ponies prone to laminitis and equine gastric ulcer syndrome (EGUS) l Full PR & social media campaign l

WHY PAY MORE? equiglohorsefeeds.co.uk facebook.com/equiglohorsefeeds/

twitter.com/EQUIGLOFEED

instagram.com/equiglohorsefeeds/ EQUIGLO® and 10 MINUTE BEET® are registered trademarks of Henry Bell & Co

EQUESTRIAN TRADE NEWS MARCH 2019

Hoof, Leg and Joint problems

22

Fat chance!

Last winter, experts urged owners to use the colder months to encourage their overweight horses to shed a few pounds. It’s nature’s way or protecting ponies in particular against the effects of Spring grass, they pointed out. Liz Benwell shares some more thoughts on the burgeoning equine obesity crisis.

Owners should feed for work done - not for a fantasy trip round Badminton.

MARCH 2019 EQUESTRIAN TRADE NEWS

• How odd that the desirable human body shape is slim; while the showing world appears to like horses looking fat.

• Feeding for ‘condition’ won’t make a horse faster or livelier. Slim, fit horses find activity easier than fat ones.

• Feeding is often used to alleviate boredom (or owners’ guilt) when horses are left stabled for too long. Said horses might be happier searching for the odd blade of grass outside in the mud.

• Owners wouldn’t dream of opening the feed room door and letting their horses help themselves. Yet they do the same thing when they turn their horses out on lush pasture.

• Hacking and riding club activities do not, generally, count as hard work. Owners should feed for work done - not for a fantasy trip round Badminton.

• Rugs can keep horses artificially warm and negate the need for them to burn calories. A no-fill sheet will keep a horse dry and clean ready to ride if that’s the excuse for rugging.

• There’s been a great deal of debate about horse:rider weight ratio. A fat horse, of course, is less equipped to carry his rider than a lean, wellmuscled one.

• Has the recent increased understanding and awareness of EGUS led owners to believe their horses should be constantly eating? And is this contributing to them being inadvertently over-fed?

• Appropriately exercising an overweight horse has many benefits. He’s burning calories, building muscle - and he can’t eat while he’s being ridden.

www.equestriantradenews.com

23

Hoof, Leg and Joint problems

Essential task made easy

Joint approach

DAILY use of a hoof pick is perhaps the most important contribution owners can make to their horses’ hoof health.

As well as removing muck, mud and stones, it’s a great opportunity to check the hooves, heels and shoes.

The Red Gorilla Hoof Pick has a strong metal pick, tough bristled brush and comfort grip handle. It’s the perfect all-in-one tool.

And to prevent leaving ‘pickings’ all over the yard, Red Gorilla’s flexible 15L Gorilla Tub makes the ideal skip to collect the debris.

A great up-selling opportunity for retailers.

Red Gorilla brand ambassador and dressage rider Harry Payne underlines just how useful a good, strong hoof pick is.

“It’s really important to pick out hooves daily,” he says, “not just to remove muck, but also to prevent infections like thrush and to check the horse’s shoes.”

The Red Gorilla Hoof Pick and Gorilla Tubs are available in a range of colours, matching other Red Gorilla products. The hoof pick comes complete with its own PoS, creating the perfect shelf shout.

HOOF Support from Dodson & Horrell is an appetising alfalfabased supplement, containing biotin, zinc and methionine.

Ideal for horses that have poor quality hooves making shoeing and shoe retention difficult, it’s formulated for hoof quality and growth.

Regeneration of a complete hoof takes nine to 12 months and Hoof Support should be used for at least this length of time, says Dodson & Horrell. It’s available in 1.5Kg and 3kg tubs.

Dodson & Horrell’s Joint Support is a pelleted supplement designed to support healthy joints, muscles, tendons and ligaments.

It contains glucosamine, MSM and Dodson & Horrell’s QLC antioxidants which help neutralise excess free radicals. Tub sizes are 1.5kg and 3kg.

Note: always advise owners to contact their vets if they are concerned about any aspect of their horses’ health. Suspected laminitis should be treated as a veterinary emergency.

SAVE £100

when you buy 8 bags of

Competition Mix, Staypower Muesli, Staypower Cubes, Performance Concentrate Muesli, Fibre Fusion & 10 Bags of Elite Sport Muesli* Available now until 26.04.19

SAVE £20

when you buy 8 bags of

Competition Mix, Staypower Muesli, Performance Concentrate Muesli, Fibre Fusion & Elite Sport Muesli* Available to order from 11.03.19 - 10.05.19

Trusted performance feed, from the nutrition experts.

Call our helpline on 01832 737300 for more information on all of our feed, herbs & supplements. www.dodsonandhorrell.com #feedtowin | 01832 737300

www.equestriantradenews.com

*No other discounts apply. Savings are on list price of pallet.

EQUESTRIAN TRADE NEWS MARCH 2019

Profile

24

THE ENTREPRENEUR WITH

THE GOLDEN TOUCH ETN meets Janine Kell, creator of The Golden Paste Company, the go-to place for all things turmeric.

J

anine Kell knows all about ‘feeling the burn’ to achieve success. And she has the scars to prove it.

The marks on her hands are reminders of long hours toiling in her kitchen in the early days of her now Janine Kell rapidly growing enterprise, The Golden Paste Co - famous for its turmeric based products for horses, dogs and humans.

As a bright, horsey young woman, Janine graduated in equine science from Bishop Burton College. She then spent ten years in the motor trade, beginning in a service department before being promoted to business development manager.

Her life changed when her three year old horse developed a locking stifle and she Googled something she’d heard might help – turmeric.

“I found an Australian vet called Doug English BSc who had used turmeric for more than 20 years and had created Golden Paste [a turmeric recipe still available on the Internet]. I made it up, fed the horse and the difference was amazing.”

Janine then began giving it to her young son for his asthma. Inevitably, friends began to ask about it, so Golden Paste production was stepped up and Janine began filling capsules with it on her kitchen table.

Keen to learn, advice from vets and medics was a constant while formulating her embryonic product range. She also joined The Turmeric User Group on Facebook to garner others’ experiences.

“I took it from there,” says Janine who lives and works near Harrogate in North Yorkshire.

The Golden Paste Co was incorporated in December 2015 with Doug English’s blessing to use the ‘Golden Paste’ name in its title. “He genuinely wants people to understand the benefits and have access to turmeric,” said Janine.

Before long, newly formed The Golden Paste Co was struggling to keep on top of orders – all of which were still being fulfilled from Janine’s home. She bravely handed in her notice at work and declared: “Let’s do this!”

Her husband Darren converted their garage into a warehouse and she ‘cooked’ product in the kitchen. “We’ve since moved three times to fit it all in,” she confessed.

Not a lot phases Janine – not even her kitchen walls and ceiling being alarmingly orange-splattered. “Turmeric is a glorious colour – but it gets everywhere. Eventually we gave in and painted the whole kitchen orange.”

But the one solution that eluded her was making pellets to feed turmeric to horses. So Janine went to see Will I’Anson of Masham, North Yorkshire based animal feed manufacturers I’Anson Bros, who also own British Horse Feeds.

“He turned me down because of the colour and the mess – which I could sort of understand,” she said. “But he did say to message him if I needed advice.”

Determined not to be defeated, Janine bought herself a small pellet mill on eBay and it joined the kitchen table production line.

“I was soaking oats in Golden Paste; I added chopped hay, grass…I tried everything. At 2am one morning, I got a spoon wedged in the machine,” she recalled. “I felt so frustrated, but I was not going to be beaten.”

Eventually Janine swallowed her pride and messaged Will who replied with a few helpful hints. Then, at BETA International two years ago, she saw him again. “OK, I admit it – I chased him down the aisle and put my hand on his shoulder,” she said.

MARCH 2019 EQUESTRIAN TRADE NEWS

Founder Janine Kell has put her heart and soul into the The Golden Paste Co’s branding – and it shows.

By now, Darren had quit his job as a mechanic to join Janine in the business. But even though they were managing to make 100kg a day, pellet production on a big enough scale to meet demand remained a massive stumbling block. After that chance meeting at BETA International, however, Will came to see the couple and said he could help.

The outcome was that I’Anson Bros acquired 75% of the business - and in June 2017 made the first pellets for The Golden Paste Co. “I’d just completed an application form for Dragons’ Den for the help as much as the investment,” said Janine. “But as it’s turned out, Will is the dragon I would have wanted. I’Ansons are a family business and they care as much as we do.”

With her dragon at her side, four full-time and two part-time employees, Janine’s company must surely be future-proof. After all, turmeric has been in regular use for 4,000 years in many cultures, yet it’s only relatively recently being widely talked-about in the UK. Of course, products are carefully prepared for each species. But Janine couldn’t resist a giggle about a woman who called at The Golden Paste Co stand at Bramham and scoffed a slice of turmeric dog sausage.

“She seemed to enjoy it and came to no harm,” laughed Janine. Like all the best business-people, she cracks on with what she believes in - and has fun along the way.

Continued on page 26

www.equestriantradenews.com

25

Everything your customers need for their veteran good doers, except the calories

VETERAN LIGHT The Low Calorie Feed for Veterans*

• Ideal for good doers • Only 8.5% combined starch and sugar levels • Suitable for those prone to laminitis • High fibre**, low calorie feed • Quick soak – Less than 60 seconds • Ideal for horses and ponies that struggle to chew • Includes a carefully selected blend of herbs with added vitamin C and a high level of vitamin E *Within the Barley & Molasses Free Range **When compared to traditional diets with comparative energy levels

Contact our award winning nutritional helpline:

01362 822 902 helpline@allenandpage.co.uk Quote Ad Reference: Veteran Light for Good Doers

www.allenandpage.com

www.equestriantradenews.com

EQUESTRIAN TRADE NEWS MARCH 2019

Profile

26

From page 24

Turmeric for the trade The Golden Paste Co offers stockists great opportunities to cross sell products for horses, dogs and humans across one renowned brand. Discount vouchers are regularly packed into the products to promote dog products to equine owners and vice versa.

The company sees retailers – and in particular bricks and mortar shops – as a vital part of their supply chain. “We are keen to educate about turmeric, how to use it correctly, about the bigger picture.

And we know how much valuable advice can be given over the shop counter, so we’re keen to offer staff training and support at stockists’ open days,” says Janine.

Attention to detail: the scoops provided with The Golden Paste Co’s TurmerAid are orange to match the turmeric theme.

About turmeric There’s oodles of information about this spice on The Golden Paste Co’s website. But here are a few fascinating facts.

• Good quality turmeric has a deep orange colour and earthy smell.

It’s related to ginger, contains 250 compounds and is rich in calcium and iron.

• Turmeric has been used in India and Indonesia for more than 4,000 years in religious ceremonies and for cooking.

• Curcumin is a valuable and the most-studied component of turmeric.

More than 10,000 studies have been undertaken worldwide.

• In 1995, a Mississippi company obtained a patent on a turmeric based product. But it was revoked after being contested by a group of Indian scientists who pointed out it had already been in use for several millennia.

• The turmeric The Golden Paste Co uses is dug out of the ground as roots and then dried to make a powder. Indonesia’s biggest export market for turmeric is India where it’s often used to make what’s known as Golden Milk.

“Selling the unsellable” Like all non-medicinal supplement manufacturers, what The Golden Paste Co can claim for its products is limited by legislation regulated by the Veterinary Medicines Directorate (VMD).

“We are forced to have to sell the unsellable,” says Janine. “We love it when people tell us about the results of using our products, but we can’t share their feedback because of VMD regulations.”

Retailers can stock this range, safe in the knowledge that all marketing material is checked by VMD. Indeed, Janine would prefer governance to go a stage further. “I’d like to see a regulatory body that manages marketing and that [manufacturers] can sign up to prove you are doing things correctly.”

Meanwhile, the company does everything possible to gain the maximum available accreditation.

Each batch of turmeric powder arriving from Indonesia is tested to guarantee a minimum 5% curcumin; some batches test as high as 9%. The Golden Paste Co’s equine products are NOPS and UFAS accredited.

The company is also doing its bit for the environment. The tape on its packaging is recyclable with potato starch used to make it ‘stick', while the sparingly used bubble wrap is recyclable and reusable. Case packs are compostable and the capsules for the human products are vegan friendly.

All manufacturing takes place in the UK - the paste in Suffolk and Kent, and the pellets in Yorkshire.

MARCH 2019 EQUESTRIAN TRADE NEWS

Sharing the benefits: Janine Kell is happy for more manufacturers to follow Baileys Horse Feeds and Cobbydog and adopt The Golden Paste Co’s ingredients offerings.

“We need to look after each other,” she adds, to which end The Golden Paste Co has made it easy for retailers to order via Battles and the major feed wholesalers as well as from British Horse Feeds alongside Speedi-Beet and Fibre-Beet.

These products look great in-store. The presentation is slick yet friendly; good enough for gifts, practical enough for busy owners.

The attention to detail is superb. Most supplements have blue scoops, but not this one – it’s orange of course!

It’s clearly no exaggeration when Janine says: “I’ve put my heart and soul into the branding.”

The difference, perhaps, is that turmeric is the raison d’etre rather than an add-on for The Golden Paste Co. “It’s our speciality, we understand how turmeric works, and how it interacts,” emphasised Janine.

In the future, it’s likely other manufacturers will follow the example of Baileys Horse Feeds and Cobbydog in their respective markets and take advantage of The Golden Paste Co’s ingredients offerings.

www.equestriantradenews.com

TURNING BACK THE PAGES…

27

ETN Reporting For four decades, ETN has reported on the equestrian trade. So let’s look back at the news, people and products that were making headlines this month five, ten, 20 and 30 years ago.

…Five years ago…In March 2014, ETN reported:

…20 years ago…In March 1999, ETN reported:

…Ten years ago…In March 2009, ETN reported:

…30 years ago…In March 1989, ETN reported:

• Planners gave R B Equestrian permission to increase its sales space from 6,000 to 10,000 square feet. The Milton Keynes based retailer was celebrating its 25th year of trading too.

• More than 50 retailers had joined Animalife’s Accredited Retailer scheme since its 1 January launch. The initiative was developed by the supplements supplier to support bricks and mortar stores. Animalife had already put a halt on retailers selling its products online.

• A new Countrywide store was officially opened in Glastonbury, Somerset with the town’s mayor and para-dressage rider Deb Criddle doing the honours.

• At the BETA Gala Dinner, Dr Roderick Woods was presented with the trade association’s Lifetime Achievement award for his work in the body protector sector. During his career, Dr Woods carried out almost 40,000 impact tests and saw great improvements in garments’ design and comfort levels. He had recently retired and was enjoying tending his hibiscus plants.

• Wholesaler Polly Products acquired Comfort Zone Equestrian. “We will continue to manufacture the range in the UK,” said managing director Tom Eastwood. Nottinghamshire based Polly Products had recently bought Tagg Clothing too.

• Shires Equestrian was awarded a Royal Warrant from the Queen. Sales manager Andy Pethybridge was pictured displaying the royal endorsement in ETN’s pages.

• The Elim-a-net feeder to slow down equine eating, the RS-Tor rider security aid, Equimax Tabs to make worming easy and the Rambo blouson jacket were among the winners of Innovation Awards at BETA International 2009.

• A Quantum saddle featured on the Channel 5 television programme Gadget Show. Suzi Perry, a presenter on the consumer technology series, had a test ride on the saddle that had been developed by Seymour Powell.

• It cost an average of £1,500 a year to keep a horse, according to BETA’s latest National Equestrian Survey.

• Keeley Durham, who had recently joined Thorowgood Saddlery, had the hottest mobile phone at BETA International 1999. Her show jumper Welham was competing in the world cup show in Bologna with John Whitaker. Cheers went up on the stand when they finished third.

• Horse&Hound sales were up at 66,898 copies per week with Your Horse selling 71,079 each month, according to the latest independently audited circulation (ABC) figures. However, Horse&Pony had fallen 22% to 33,059 and Horse by 7% to 36,047.

• Agent Roger Whittle announced his retirement from the road to concentrate on his W’underwear equine bibs mail order company.

• Leicestershire based Jane Bertram Products began supplying its Dognest dog beds and Quorn rugs to the trade. The polystyrene bead filled products were said to have therapeutic effects. Company founder Jane Bertram, appeared on the TV show What’s My Line? in which panellists had to guess guests’ occupations.

• Perthshire saddler Janet Eggleton was supplementing her leatherwork business by supplying sporrans to Scottish regiments and clan enthusiasts worldwide.

• Four hand-coloured hunting prints were stolen from the boardroom at Jabez Cliff’s Walsall factory. Kent Kirby of the saddlemaker appealed for their return.

• Olympic dressage rider Christopher Bartle was helping Barry Richardson of Kent based Chaskit to design some new saddles.

Be Laminitis Aware The Original 10 minute Quick Soaking Beet Flakes • Ideal fibre source for equines prone to laminitis • Low in sugar and starch • High in fibre • Non-heating slow release energy • Quick soaking • Excellent value • First BETA EGUS approved soaked fibre • Suitable for equines prone to gastric ulcers* *As part of a balanced diet.

T: +44 (0) 1765 680 300 F: www.facebook.com/britishhorsefeeds W: www.britishhorsefeeds.com

28

A catch-up with some BETA International 2019 exhibitors Aigle International UK Stand Number: P3.2 It was great to see you exhibiting at BETA International. What was the highlight for you?

Being awarded Highly Commended in the Country Clothing & Footwear category of the Innovation Awards sponsored by Equestrian Trade News (ETN) was a definite highlight for us.

Which of your products grabbed the most attention at this year’s show?

The Parcours 2 Signature Open, a new release for AW19. Handcrafted in France and fully lined with full grain leather for comfort, with a full length waterproof zip for ease.

Perry Equestrian Stand Number: F3.1 It was great to see you exhibiting at BETA International. What was the highlight for you?

For us the highlight was the huge response to the new products we’re releasing in 2019. We spoke to lots of our customers, as well as people we hadn’t met before and their feedback is vital to the growth of our ranges.

Which of your products grabbed the most attention at this year’s show?

The Eco-Skip and SafeTie were very well received with lots of orders coming through.

Customers were also really pleased to see our Primus brand on display, as this helped them see new opportunities for sales.

Crafty Ponies

ADVERTISEMENT FEATURE

Stand Number: F1.3 It was great to see you exhibiting at BETA International. What was the highlight for you?

We were really excited when Crafty Ponies won ‘Highly commended’ in the ‘general’ category in the ETN Innovation Awards. It was thirty six years ago that Karen won her first Award at BETA winning the Innovation Award with the revolutionary ‘bi-numnah’.

Children really love their Crafty Ponies and parents appreciate the educational aspect of the products. We work hard to make the ponies and their tack and accessories as close to the real thing as possible so that children can learn and practice as they play. We provide fun, fully illustrated booklets with all the products and videos on

DLF Saddle Co. Ltd. Stand Number: H10.5A It was great to see you exhibiting at BETA International. What was the highlight for you?

Our main reason for exhibiting at BETA was to introduce our company and saddles made by our Master Saddle Maker, David. We had a lot of positive feedback liking our quality, design and finish. Moving forward into 2019 we are looking to take on board saddle fitters to help with the demand of our products and to continue manufacturing the DLF brand aswell as our existing customer base. Look out for our new improved website being launched very soon.

MARCH 2019 EQUESTRIAN TRADE NEWS

This boot is the perfect combination of country style, comfort and practicality.

Will you be back at BETA International 2020?

Absolutely, we’re looking forward to it.

How can retailers catch up with you meanwhile?

Email: uksales@aigle.com Telephone: 01608 813860 Website: www.aigle.com/uk/en

Will you be back at BETA International 2020?

Yes we will, with plenty of new products already planned for launch at the show!

How can retailers catch up with you meanwhile?

You can contact our offices using the details below, and request a visit from one of our representatives if needed. We also have a showroom which you can visit and see the products for yourself, and have a coffee on us.

Email: sales@perrytrade.co.uk Telephone: 01384 414001 Website: www.perryequestrian.co.uk

the educational website and you tube channel also. It is wonderful to have this recognition, I am very happy that Crafty Ponies have been recognised for their fun and educational qualities.

Which of your products grabbed the most attention at this year’s show?

All the Ponies!

Will you be back at BETA International 2020?

Yes of course!

How can retailers catch up with you meanwhile?

Email: contact@craftyponies.co.uk Telephone: Darren 07960 513655 Karen 07496 170156 Website: www.craftyponies.co.uk

Which of your products grabbed the most attention at this year’s show?

The DLF Premium Jump saddle was a popular choice with its Australian nut and black colour combination, made from Italian calf.

Will you be back at BETA International 2020?

We are returning next year to showcase our new designs which we are busy designing and working on.

How can retailers catch up with you meanwhile?

Email: dlfsaddlery@btinternet.com Telephone: David Faultless – 0798466317

Lesley Faultless - 07776480455 Website: www. dlfsaddlery.com

www.equestriantradenews.com

29

Emerald Green Feeds Stand Number: K11.1 It was great to see you exhibiting at BETA International. What was the highlight for you?

We love going to shows and events and BETA International is no exception. As a small family run business, we really enjoy the opportunity to get out there and meet our customers whether that be the end user or the retailer that sells our feed, we love hearing feedback about our products.

Which of your products grabbed the most attention at this year’s show?

Our Meadow Magic Pellets were once again the star product on our stand at BETA International this year, the newest product in our range was developed following

Lintbells Equine Stand Number: D5.4 It was great to see you exhibiting at BETA International. What was the highlight for you?

Our highlight was talking to new retailers about our latest products for joint care in dogs and horses. We love educating and informing customers about our quality ingredients in YuMOVE but more importantly we enjoy hearing all of the success stories about how our products have helped your own horses and dogs plus and your customers animals.

feedback from customers. The low sugar and starch, high fibre feed is made from 8 different species of meadow grass making it different from our traditional grass pellets which is just one species.

Will you be back at BETA International 2020?

No decisions have been made yet for shows in 2020, we are busy sorting out the coming season at the moment.

How can retailers catch up with you meanwhile?

Keep an eye on our social media and website for where we will be in the next few months and catch up with team at the events and shows.

Email: info@emeraldgreenfeeds.co.uk Telephone: 01526 398236 Website: www.emeraldgreenfeeds.co.uk

Which of your products grabbed the most attention at this year’s show?

YuMOVE Active for Horses Will you be back at BETA International 2020?

We are considering this at the moment.

How can retailers catch up with you meanwhile?

Contact info@lintbells.com for all enquiries Email: info@lintbells.com Telephone: 01462 790 886 Website: www.lintbells.com

Charles Owen & Airowear Stand Number: Hall 7 K2.1 It was great to see you exhibiting at BETA International. What was the highlight for you?

BETA International is always a highlight on our calendar and this year did not disappoint in the slightest. Not only was it a joy to catch up with retailers and industry contacts from around the world, but also we participated in the BETA Fashion Show and won a BETA Innovation Award. Charles Owen’s AyrBrush With Pinstripe and Airowear’s AirMesh shone on stage during the fashion show, which was a fantastic opportunity to show the versatility, comfort and style of these safety products. Winning an Innovation Award for the MS1 Pro was an honour and recognized our constant eye towards improvement and incorporation of the very latest safety technology.

Which of your products grabbed the most attention at this year’s show?

Our range of helmets that incorporate MIPS technology, the My PS, My PS With Wide Peak and MS1 Pro were the products that were the most exciting this year. The My PS is a stylish helmet with an outershell made of ABS thermoplastic to give riders the elegant look of a Charles Owen helmet infused with modern style and a deep fit. The My PS with Wide Peak adds the elegant and feminine look of a wide peak that shades the face and upper neck from the harmful effects of the sun. Finally, the MS1 Pro is a groundbreaking jockey skull and the first of its kind to incorporate MIPS technology. Its

Stand Number: H3.1 It was great to see you exhibiting at BETA International. What was the highlight for you?

The constant visitors all day, for all 3 days! Receiving an award for our stand was the icing on the cake.

Which of your products grabbed the most attention at this year’s show?

The new RETRO and CLASSIC families of product really stood out. The Lidded Hayroller was further recognised as the serious field feeder and boredom breaker.

Business was brisk! www.equestriantradenews.com

Will you be back at BETA International 2020?

We do great business there and our customers tell us they definitely want us there!

How can retailers catch up with you meanwhile?

Whilst we do not do any direct selling, we are always available via email, Facebook and phone to answer any questions.

Email: info@stubbsengland.com Telephone: 01949 850 218 Website: www.stubbsengland.com

EQUESTRIAN TRADE NEWS MARCH 2019

ADVERTISEMENT FEATURE

STUBBS ENGLAND

ABS outershell offers a deep fit made secure with a unique padded harness.

Will you be back at BETA International 2020?

Yes, we will definitely be back.

How can retailers catch up with you meanwhile?

We can be found online at www.charlesowen.co.uk or www.airowear.co.uk and on all of our social media. Retailers can also be contact their rep or our UK and European Sales Manager, Ian Mitchell.

Email: info@charlesowen.co.uk Telephone: 01978 317777 Website: www.charlesowen.co.uk

Better Business

30

PLANNING TO SUCCEED

In the good times, it’s easy to sit back and watch business come in. But when uncertainty reigns, use it as a spur to put your business in a stronger position, says Adam Bernstein.

T

ough times help concentrate the mind to uncover weaknesses and deal with threats. Handled well, difficulties can be a positive force for change... the nudge a business needs to grow.

One way of doing this is through what’s known as a ‘legal audit’.

It’s worth pointing out that recent years have seen unprecedented levels of director and company scrutiny. Investors (banks), regulators and HMRC have become far more cautious and far more attuned to the potential pitfalls of a badly managed businesses.

Beyond the realms of officialdom - as well as acting as a business’s health check – a legal audit can ensure it’s in a saleable condition to a ready buyer should the need arise.

According to Mary Elliott, of law firm Fox Williams, there are a number of key areas ripe for examination in any business, small or large.

Structure The first place to look, says Elliott, is the company’s constitution/ shareholders agreement. “With surprising regularity, small companies discover too late that when there is a disagreement on how to manage the company, there’s no agreed mechanism to find a solution.”

The directors thus find themselves facing deadlock - just when decisions need to be made quickly. So, if control of a company is split between two or more shareholders, a suitable shareholders’ agreement should be in place to govern disputes. And not least because such issues can often be time critical.

MARCH 2019 EQUESTRIAN TRADE NEWS

Directors’ duties Directors of even the smallest of businesses must be aware of their obligations under the Companies Act 2006. Never is this more important than when a company is facing financial difficulties.

Says Elliott: “When a company is in good financial health, legislation says that directors must act in a way which would be most likely to promote the success of the company. But as soon as a company hits the buffers, directors must consider their potential liability for wrongful trading and the implications of showing someone preference or completing transactions at below value.”

Importantly, in both good times and bad, directors must ensure their activities are sufficiently monitored so nothing is missed.

Management In difficult times, management of the business and its employees becomes increasingly important.

Regular reviews of reporting processes should be conducted to ensure critical information is passed up the chain of command in a timely and accurate manner. As Elliott comments: “It’s often the staff that first notice when things are amiss; and when business is hard, it’s vital key management decisions are based on accurate and up-to-date information.”

Where companies have grown organically over time, it’s not uncommon www.equestriantradenews.com

31 to find layers of management. So critical information passes through several hands before it reaches the decision-makers, by which time it may be distorted or old.

Key employees Unless the company is run entirely by a sole director, it’s likely to rely on key members of staff and third parties such as an accountant. Just one departure of a key member can bring a firm to its knees. As Elliott says: “Never are those employees more vital than when a company is in difficulty.”

A legal audit should identify key individuals and examine their contracts of employment. All too often, contracts aren’t written down or are poorly constructed.

Good employees are invaluable assets and companies should be aware that the more important the employee, the greater the poachable target. “Examine your contracts,” says Elliott, “to ensure that the right people are being suitably rewarded while checking whether enforceable restrictive covenants are in place to prevent them from being snatched by competitors.” It’s cheaper and faster to recruit someone with experience than to train an individual from scratch.

Key suppliers A business will flounder if it cannot trade on the best possible terms.

As well as ensuring that standard terms enjoy sufficient legal protection, a review of existing arrangements can uncover new opportunities for savings or growth by identifying key terms for re-negotiation.

On this, Elliott reckons a legal audit can “identify where a business has become overly dependent on one group of customers or a single supplier, allowing the company to diversify before it becomes vulnerable.”

In difficult times, the knock-on effect of a key supplier going under or a shift away by the customer base can be profound.

Take measures to allow the company to diversify before it becomes vulnerable.

Finance As the Bank of England has warned, consumer credit is being tightened, and interest rates will rise – albeit gently, with a double impact on businesses.

Customers may spend less or find it harder to borrow for larger ticket items; while firms may find their banking facilities restricted. As Elliott notes, “a legal audit can help identify new financing opportunities, as well as checking that a company’s finances are readily accessible when most needed.

“Overdrafts are classic vulnerability. They’re repayable on demand and are often the first facilities to be examined by any bank wanting to reduce its exposure.” She advises firms to act now and lock in any borrowing before rates rise further.

Premises Premises are a business’s largest outgoing. It’s sensible to consider potential risk from a lease that’s about to end - or whether your firm could take advantage of vacant properties to lower the rent.

Says Elliott: “Landlords are keen to hold onto good tenants and this can be used as a bargaining tool to fix your rent for a longer period, agree to the insertion of a break clause or even allow for sub-letting if the property is superfluous to your needs.”

Compliance

Sources of advice: The Federation of Small Businesses (http://fsb.org.uk).

Accounting bodies at http://bit.ly/2jXfh8j Solicitors http://solicitors.lawsociety.org.uk The government’s website www.Gov.uk www.equestriantradenews.com

atchy!

-M

When a business is focused on staying afloat, compliance can often be overlooked until a regulator or creditors come knocking.

A legal audit will check that your company is up-to-date with all its corporate and regulatory filings and identify what policies or procedures should be implemented. This will ensure that compliance becomes second-nature and does not fall by the wayside.”

Match y

call n

ow!

Find out more about Matchy Matchy at www.redgorilla.red

EQUESTRIAN TRADE NEWS MARCH 2019

Special Report

32

TIME FOR HORSES ETN discovers how people in the trade make room for horses in their busy lives.

NICKY FLETCHER

STACY COATES

Self-confessed workaholic Nicky does everything – from cleaner to director – at hi-viz specialist Equisafety which she founded 19 years ago.

“I’ve been riding since I was five and now have a lovely, gentle 17.2hh KWPN called Oscar.

I broke him in myself, he’s now 11, and we’re starting to ride at medium level dressage. I only have time to ride about three times a week but have Oscar on full livery with amazing hacking. I would find it very difficult otherwise.

“Fortunately Oscar is quite chilled. When I had to give him four weeks off over Christmas, the company’s busiest time, I was able to jump back on board. We love competing, but I stress out my trainer by learning the test on the way to shows.

“Work always gets in the way, but without work I couldn’t afford Oscar. He’s used for our photo shoots and testing, so he earns his keep like the rest of us.”

Sales and marketing manager Stacy has been with Vale Brothers/Thermatex for 13 years.

“I learnt to ride at our local riding school when I was ten and my parents purchased a pony for the family to share. Dressage became my ‘thing’ by accident. I’d had early success in the show ring with my New Forest pony Bullhill Fanlight (Amos). We’d competed at Olympia and he was breed performance champion.

“Then a road accident (he was among a group of escapees) ended his showing career. After his recovery, Amos and I became one of the first pony/rider combinations to compete at prix st georges level dressage.

Since then, I’ve trained three dressage horses from novice to advanced, the most recent (Finn) up to intermediare II. “For the first time in 30 years, I have just one horse to look after. I arrive at the yard by 6.45am to exercise Finn – he’s now retired from competing but we still enjoy playing - and do jobs before heading home to be at my desk for 9am.

“Working from home means I don’t have to worry about ‘hat hair’ and can keep my breeches on. As I often work away, someone else cares for Finn. It’s a lot easier and less expensive with just one horse.”

DANIELLE BLAIR Business development manager at Battles for four years, Danielle lives in Cumbria and covers Scotland and the north of England.

“I’ve been riding for 29 years and have two warmbloods – Batman, a sevenyear-old I’ve had since he was two, and Brooke (10) who I got as a four year old. I compete in British Showjumping up to 1.10m two or three times a month, although it’s more challenging in winter.

“My horses are on part livery, so they’re fed and mucked out in the mornings and I ride and do my jobs after work. I spend most weekends with the horses, if not at a show then riding and care. When you have horses, there just aren’t enough hours in the day – especially daylight hours in winter.

“Equestrian knowledge is essential for my job, so being up-to-date on current trends, nutrition, health care and other aspects of the equine world is vital. If you’re lucky enough to have a job which involves your passion, it’s a pleasure to go to work.”

MARCH 2019 EQUESTRIAN TRADE NEWS

HANNAH WILD Hannah launched online retailer Supplement Solutions in 2004 and is its sole director. Her days are far from nine to five.

“I have four horses.

Ravi is a four-year-old Hanoverian x Irish draught I bought last year to compete in dressage and low level eventing; although my four-year-old son William has his eye on him already. I’ve also got retired home-bred Dippy, who I used to event; cheeky Welsh section D Millie and Millie’s two-year-old son Frankie.

“I competed at novice level dressage last year with Sion, my competition horse who sadly had to be put to sleep. One day I would like to get back into eventing.

“I’m lucky to keep my horses at home. With only one in work at the moment, I tend to ride in the mornings before the children get up and before I go to work. It’s when I enjoy some rare time to myself. In the evenings, my children help me muck out and we bring the horses in together.

“The most difficult thing about working full time and having horses is balancing the business with the children, the horses and the husband.

I have to be highly organised even to ride in the mornings, let alone compete.”

Continued on page 34

www.equestriantradenews.com

33

NEW FOOTWEAR COLLECTION OUT NOW Become a Stockist Today!

Contact us to find out how on 01295 226900 Or sales@weatherbeeta.com The NEW Dublin Country Boots Range has been designed to offer fantastic quality and reliability across a range of price points, with nine styles to choose from there is a pair of Dublin boots for every lifestyle and budget. www.equestriantradenews.com

EQUESTRIAN TRADE NEWS MARCH 2019

34 From page 32

CLAIRE THOMAS

Trus over ted for 20 y ears

As commercial manager of Equestrian Management Consultants (part of the BETA Group), Claire is the organiser of BETA International and oversees ETN, the British Equestrian Directory and Trade Suppliers Directory.

“I started riding aged about six.

These days, my horsey activities are restricted to owning a home-bred, four-year-old gelding called Oliver, who’s aimed at young event horse classes with my daughter, and a half share in a ten-year-old gelding, Jake, who my granddaughter hopes to event.

“In my day, I hunted with the Belvoir and Quorn, competed in mounted games and show jumped at national level. Now, I go to our family yard daily – we like to keep the horses in a routine and daily turnout is a must. I’m half thinking of getting back into the saddle this summer, nice weather and a steady horse permitting…

“In my current job, my equestrian knowledge is helpful, but not essential.

However, my overall understanding of the industry is a definite benefit; I know the difference between a brushing boot and a jodhpur boot.”

If you’re lucky enough to have a job which involves your passion, it’s a pleasure to go to work.

JOINT CARE COMFORT FOR JOINTS THE NATURAL WAY ALTERNATIVE TO BUTE (Phenylbutazone) VERY STRONG LIQUID SUPPLEMENT CAN BE GIVEN LONG TERM

RANGE INCLUDES: NoBute, NoBute Premium, Navilam ‘O’ & NoWheeze.

Available at Trade Prices.

Please note the FEI Rules regarding Devils Claw.

www.animal-health.co.uk Tel: 01787 476400

NICKY MACKENZIE Marketing manager Nicky has been with SEIB for 25 years. She works from home in Rutland and visits the office in Essex weekly.

"I’ve ridden since I was about five. Not coming from a horsey family, I worked for rides, giving lessons and taking out clients. I've currently got two horses - gypsy cob James, and a retired hunt horse called Patrick. I'm not riding much at the moment, but previously I've competed in most disciplines and hunted.

"I keep my horses at home and they mostly live out. They're checked twice a day and fed, and in the winter they have lots of hay. I have a friend's horses with mine, which is great as I have a helping hand.

"The most difficult thing about working full time and having horses is finding time. When you have the time, you don't have the money to do anything, and vice versa.

“I definitely couldn't do my job if I didn't have that equestrian knowledge, though; horsey people speak a different language. I always say it's a multi-million pound cottage industry - and you need to know how to fit into it." www.equestriantradenews.com

35 JANE BUCHAN Now marketing manager, Jane originally joined Baileys Horse Feeds in 2000.

“I’ve been riding since I was seven. My non-horsey parents managed to buy me a pony and I competed locally before taking BHS exams on leaving school.

“Six years ago, I invested in a sixyear-old Holstein gelding, Carleton (aka Precious) who had done a few BE90s and BE100s [low level eventing].

“It was pretty much love at first sight and, after a shaky start, we have progressed through the levels way beyond any of my previous achievements. Last year, we completed Houghton Hall CCI** as well as our first advanced one day event.

“I also have a Baileys-bred Thoroughbred, Baileys En Premier (Cracker), who came out of racing in 2016 and started eventing with me last year at BE90 level.

“The horses are on DIY livery at a farm about ten minutes from home.

I visit twice a day and aim to get them both ridden in the mornings before work. We have a small floodlit manage, without which I couldn’t cope in the winter. I’m generally on the yard by 6.15am to muck out and ride, then get into the office around 9.30am. I leave work around 5.30 or 6pm and head back to the yard to do jobs.

“I have a weekly planner and mark in competitions and sessions with my trainers, then build the rest of my riding week around those.”

Take a tip…

• If turnout rugs get wet, leave them on the horse to dry. In winter, I keep a thin fleece rug on all the time, so when stable rugs are changed for turnouts my horse doesn’t have a cold, damp rug put directly on his back. – Nicky F • Preparation is key, so make up feeds the night before and plan the horses’ work timetable so you can fit everything in. – Danielle • Make up as many haynets as possible, fill water containers in advance and draft in cover as necessary to help you fit everything into a working day. – Stacy • Be prepared to turn your hand to anything; I do feeding, grooming, driving the lorry and making the tea - and it helps my work/life balance. – Claire • Everything I do with my horses has to be as easy as possible.

The field is right next to the stables, the stables have automatic waterers, the muck trailer is right next to the stables, hay is opposite the stables - it’s all about convenience. – Hannah • Allocate each horse a colour. Buy buckets, rugs and headcollars in that horse’s colour, then you’ll instantly know which bit of kit belongs to whom. Poo pick twice a day so it never builds up and all the land is grazed properly. – Nicky M • I try to clean everything straight after an event so it’s ready for next time. And I prepare sandwiches for lunch and breakfast the night before so I can eat at my desk. – Jane Tell us about your time with your horses.

Email editor@equestriantradenews.com and send us a picture too. www.equestriantradenews.com

Production of horse feeds & snacks in the Netherlands

100% Private Label development and production

BETA NOPS-certified production facilities

Modified atmosphere packaging specialist 10-1.000 kg

Export experience Europe – China – Middle East

For more information, visit our website www.hepromij.nl Contact us via info@hepromij.nl or tel. +31 (0) 13 45 65 574

SMS National Competition

36

A “BUMPER YEAR” AT NATIONAL SADDLERY COMPETITION

Prize winners at the Society of Master Saddlers' National Competition.

Y

outh and experience were rewarded at this year’s Society of Master Saddlers’ (SMS) National Saddlery Competition at Saddlers’ Hall, London.

A host of accolades was presented in front of esteemed guests and industry professionals.

The Worshipful Company of Saddlers’ Prime Warden, James Welch, presented awards to the successful apprentices currently undertaking the Millennium Apprenticeship Scheme, those who had completed their training and also apprentices on the Government Saddlery Apprenticeship Scheme.

At the start of the evening Society of Master Saddlers’ President, Chris Taylor had said: “The national competition is always a highlight in the calendar for so many, a chance to showcase fabulous work, socialise and catch up. 2019 is very much a bumper year of entries and exhibits.

“The event is very much a celebration of our craft and in the Hall tonight are many truly talented people. It is that drive and passion that keeps British saddlery at its best and everyone should be proud of their achievements.

“Apprentices and students, you are very important to the survival of the industry and the skills involved.”

The awards ceremony, supported by The Worshipful Company of Saddlers, Abbey England, H Webber and Osborne Tools, Cribbs Carriage Masters, Tandy Leather, The Worshipful Company of Coach and Coach Harness Makers and Musto, was followed by an evening reception.

Colin Potts of Vale Brothers won the Bruce Emtage Memorial Plate for Best in Show with his entry in the Open Dressage Saddle Class.

MARCH 2019 EQUESTRIAN TRADE NEWS

Colin Potts of Vale Brothers won the Bruce Emtage Memorial Plate for Best in Show with his entry in the Open Dressage Saddle Class.

www.equestriantradenews.com

37

SMS 2019 National Saddlery Competition Results CLASS 1 - Master and Apprentice A Head Collar made by the Apprentice and Flat Lead Rein made by the Master 1st: Apprentice Rachel Lok and Master Janet Legg CLASS 2A - A Snaffle Bridle conforming to Level 2 City and Guilds Skills Assessment specification for those in years 1 and 2 Sponsored by Abbey England and Musto 1st: Andrew Hawkins, Capel Manor College 2nd: Gudrun-Kirstine Gadegaard Thuesen, Capel Manor College 3rd: Zoe Brown, Capel Manor College CLASS 2B - In Hand Stallion Show Bridle conforming to Level 3 City and Guilds Skills Assessment specification. For those in years 3 and 4 Sponsored by Tandy Leather and Musto 1st: Lucy Ellis, Saddlery Training Centre 2nd: Amy Baldwin, Saddlers Den and Saddlery Training Centre 3rd: Katja Noergaard CLASS 2C - Trainee Harness Sponsored by The Worshipful Company of Coach and Coach Harness Makers Crupper and Dock conforming to Level 2 City and Guilds Skills Assessment specification.

1st: Gudrun-Kirstine Gadegaard Thuesen, Capel Manor College 2nd: Lucy Ellis, Saddlery Training Centre 3rd: Zoe Hurst, Capel Manor College CLASS 3A - Trainee Saddle (Rural) for those with no more than 4 years in the trade With sponsorship from H Webber in conjunction with Osborne Tools Any type or size of Leather Saddle (must be suitable to meet the criteria of C&G Level 2 or 3 Saddle specification) 1st: Becky Simmons, Saddlery Training Centre 2nd: Katja Noergaard, Saddlery Training Centre 3rd: Rudy Llewellyn, Saddlery Training Centre CLASS 3B - Trainee Saddle (Trade) for those with no more than 4 years in the trade Any type or size of leather astride Saddle (must be manufactured on a wooden tree) 1st: Luke Dunphy, Ideal Saddle Company 2nd: Jack Moseley, Frank Baines Saddlery 3rd: Marcus Lugsdin, Ideal & WRS Company

CLASS 4 - Intermediate Bridle A Pair of Leather Rolled Reins 1st: Kirsty Thomson 2nd: Julia Veen, Chobham Rider 3rd: Rachel Lok, Nutwell Saddlery CLASS 5 - Special Open Class A Pair of Dressage Stirrup Leathers 1st: Christer Dahlberg 2nd: Lily Spackman, S E S Saddlery 3rd: Kathrine Holm CLASS 6 - Small Business Saddle Makers Any design of English astride leather Saddle 1st: Michele Christensen 2nd: Stephanie Rubbo 3rd: Stephanie Bullock CLASS 7 - Trade / Company Saddle Any design of leather English astride Saddle 1st: Frank Baines Saddlery CLASS 8 - Open Harness A leather Harness Bridle suitable for Exercise or Work Sponsored by Cribbs Carriage Masters 1st: Catrien Coppens 2nd: Samuel Belasco, Household Cavalry Mounted Regiment 3rd: Corrin King CLASS 9 - Open Bridle Dressage Snaffle Bridle 1st: Matthew Payne 2nd: Catherine Baker 3rd: Lisa Hoskins CLASS 10 - Open Saddle Dressage Saddle 1st: Colin Potts, Vale Brothers 2nd: Stephen Wragg, Frank Baines Saddlery 3rd: Dennis Townsend, Ryder Saddles CLASS 11 - A Side Saddle 1st: Nicola Watson 2nd: Coralie Chung CLASS 12 - Open Class Any Western Style Riding Bridle 1st: Grace Willsmer 2nd: Kathrine Holm 3rd: Martina Dawson CLASS 13 - The President’s Choice Box Work 1st: Line Hansen for the clarinet case 2nd: Helen Leedham for the bowling ball bag 3rd: Julie Yates for the flask case

Three happy customers

(The saddle fitter is the third, of course.)

S-Series Jump RRP £975

COMPETITION TROPHIES: The Tony Byrne Memorial Trophy for the best Harness entry by an Apprentice or Trainee was awarded to Corrin King for her entry in the open harness class.

The Tony Russell Memorial Trophy for the best harness entry was awarded to Catrien Coppens for her entry in the open harness class.

The Ken Lyndon Dykes Perpetual Trophy for best entry in the President’s Choice class was awarded to Line Hansen for the Clarinet Case.

The Neil McCarraher Trophy for the most attractive and commercially viable saddle in Class 7 was awarded to Frank Baines Saddlery presented by Neil McCarraher.

The Side Saddle Association Trophy for the best Side-Saddle Entry was won by Nicola Watson.

The Alf Batchelor Memorial Trophy for the best bridlework entry was awarded to Grace Willsmer for her entry in the Western bridle class, presented by John Batchelor.

The Les Coker Millennium Trophy for best entry by an Apprentice was awarded to Rachel Lok for her headcollar entered in the Master and Apprentice class.

The Bruce Emtage Memorial Plate for Best in Show was awarded to Colin Potts for his entry in the Open Saddle Class.

www.equestriantradenews.com

S-Series Universal GP RRP £945

Made in England

7 changeable gullet bar widths

kentandmasters.co.uk

workingEQUESTRIAN with saddle-fi tters TRADE NEWS MARCH 2019

Competition Gear

38

EVERY ONE’S A WINNER

Keep your customers’ competitive aspirations alive with these top products.

Scientifically tested

Two in one

GAIT analysis testing has shown that breastplates can have a negative effect on a horses’ action, says Fairfax Saddles.

This scientific finding led the company to develop a new type of breastplate designed to prevent the saddle slipping - but without affecting the horse’s breathing or way of going.

The Fairfax Performance Breastplate (RRP £260) removes restriction. Tests show it allows the horse to move just as freely as he would without one. (Photo: Julia Shearwood)

THE Equetech Ultima Quick Change TailCoat is two jackets in one.

It has detachable tails which, when removed, reveal a shorter finish. So it’s perfect for riders with horses competing at different dressage levels.

Featuring crystal buttons and paisley satin waistcoat points, this good looking jacket is washable with wipe-clean, weighted tails.

In sizes 8 to 16, the RRP is £249.95.

For rainy show days

Getting closer…

THE close contact shape of Griffin NuuMed numnahs and saddle pads accommodates saddles with prominent knee rolls and flaps. So this British made brand works particularly well under jump and event saddles.

Griffin NuuMed’s half wool pads - made with British wool – don’t interfere with saddle fit either.

Available in a choice of eight colours, they feature short top D straps and a hook and loop girth strap for easy fastening. RRPs are from £62.50.

Get a grip

THIS combo rain sheet is ideal for use in-between classes on damp show days. It’s from a capsule wardrobe for the competition horse from Mark Todd.

Other products in the Pro rug range are medium and heavyweight stable rugs, a lightweight stable sheet, cotton summer sheet and mesh cooler. All come in practical navy blue with sky blue trim. Simple T-bar front fastenings make for easy use.

Given that temporary stabling at shows can be damp, the stable rugs and sheet have a 1,000 denier outer making them water resistant.

MARCH 2019 EQUESTRIAN TRADE NEWS

THE SSG Hybrid glove combines a cabretta leather back with a synthetic leather aquasuede palm for good grip, breathability, durability and comfort.

The wrist has a hook and eye closure for a snug fit.

A popular choice for show riders, and suitable for any discipline, the SSG Hybrid is available in black, white and brown/tan in sizes 6 to 10.

The trade price is £18.40. SSG gloves are distributed in the UK and Ireland

by Agrihealth. www.equestriantradenews.com

39 Colourful all-rounder TRI-ZONE Impact Sports Boots, new from Equilibrium Products, offer all round equine leg protection.

They have been developed to withstand high impact without compromising on fit, breathability, flexibility or weight.

Suitable for all activities from schooling and hacking to cross country, polo and racing, Tri-Zone Impact Sports boots have been scientifically tested, included for concussion and penetration.

With RRPs of £64.95 (front) and £74.95 (hind), they come in small, medium and large sizes in black, white, azure blue or flame red.

A sporty number DORTMUND Performance Breeches from John Whitaker International offer just what the busy competitor needs.

Made from a technical lightweight yet opaque fabric, with cool-touch exterior, they are breathable, quick drying and UV protective.

Grippy 3D printed silicone knee patches are staggered in size to avoid uncomfortable bunching.

One zipped front pocket features Whitaker silicone printing, while there are red, white and blue decals on the hip and rear belt loop for a subtle sporty look.

Available in navy or white, the RRP is £95.

In the groove

Competition Gear Stay ahead of the competition!

THESE winning products, available exclusively from Snowhill, will set up your store for the new season.

Rhinegold Super Stretch Mesh Back Riding Gloves have a super stretchy mesh back to the hand making them extremely comfortable to wear. With additional strengthening on the palm and index fingers to stop the reins rubbing, these are the perfect riding gloves (RRP £14.50).

Rhinegold Luxe Leather Riding Gloves come in luxury feel, soft leather with a Lycra stretch panel and rider friendly reinforcements. The Velcro fastening allows ‘give’ when riding, while these gloves even have ventilation along the fingers for breathability (RRP £24.50).

The Rhinegold Glitter Pro Riding Hat complies with PAS 015. This ventilated hat comes with a removable, washable liner and features a soft suede style Coolmax lined harness. A glitter panel adds glamour (RRP £72.95).

Rhinegold Elite Santorini Long Leather Riding Boots are high end, luxurious feeling footwear. They have a soft Nappa leather foot, textured leather inside calf panel and stretch outer leg for supreme comfort. An elasticated rear panel and full length zip make for ease of use. Trimmed with patent ‘mock croc’ and with front lace detail, this is a simply stunning boot in a range of sizes and four calf widths (RRP £119.50).

The Rhinegold Real Sheepskin Wither Pad Saddle Cloth comes in top quality cotton with the finest sheepskin wither pad. A small quilting design gives the cloth great stability, while there are also Velcro girth attachment straps and tough Cordura anti-rub panels.

Anatomically designed for a perfect fit, the RRP is £33.50.

The Rhinegold Professional Choice Saddle Cloth is a box quilted, close contact saddle cloth that sits still for security.

The felt filled pad is ideal for dressage – and a perfect style and colour for any smart occasion or event (RRP £16.50).

Limited edition THESE lightweight girths from Majyk Equipe are new to the UK, via distributor Battles.

With a contoured shape for comfort and free movement, a removable biofoam liner offers tackiness for grip while still allowing air flow.

The anti-fungal, anti-bacterial liner is said to avoid heat build-up, making it ideal for sensitive horses. And because it’s removable, it’s easy to clean.

The girth’s outer is in ballistic nylon with a stabilising centre plate, said to reduce the need for over-tightening. Three rings enable training aids to be attached. Stainless steel roller buckles and elastic fittings also feature.

These girths are offered in short (suitable for dressage or monoflap saddles) or standard lengths, in black or brown. www.equestriantradenews.com

SPRENGER has launched a limited edition Ultra Fit grip spur in blue.

The design eliminates pressure and movement for correct spur performance and protection of boot leather.

A rubber cover allows for a good fit and looks attractive too. This style comes in a variety of spur types including ball-shaped, round, straight and little round rowel.

The RRP is around £47. Sprenger is distributed in the UK by Zebra Products.

EQUESTRIAN TRADE NEWS MARCH 2019

Competition Gear

HOT

40

STUFF!

Leading equestrian designer Liz Hayman talks trends, retailing tips and about being British.

Q: What will be the big for 2019?

A: Gym wear was a key fashion trend on the high street in 2018, and it was only a matter of time before it moved into equestrian clothing.

So lightweight, fitted, breathable fabrics are big for 2019. And fabrics which easily cross-over into other sports are a must, enabling wardrobes to be multi-functional. Riding tights are a great example.

But garments’ riding functionality must never be compromised by style.

The fit should be suitable for riding, as well as the choice of fabric; being too thin, for instance, won’t do.

Q: How much influence do top riders have on your products?

A: By definition, professionals test products to the max in terms of performance, longevity and durability. They can also give brands valuable feedback about possible improvements or features which would enhance the design.

Top riders’ input means the rest of us ‘ordinary’ riders benefit hugely.

We also listen to comments from 'everyday' riders; after all, they take testing up a notch by including yard duties on top of riding.

Q: When selling clothing, what advantages do bricks and mortar retailers have over online sellers?

A: The simple answer is that customers visiting a shop can try products on. But in reality, many of us juggle horses, family and work – so it’s tempting to order online. Although convenient, Internet buying can be frustrating if items don’t fit and need to be sent back.

It would be nice to see stores making the most of their shop floor space, with ‘new-in’ displays and up-selling by merchandising socks near breeches or competition numbers near bridles. Online retailers do this naturally via 'other customers also bought' tabs or pop-up suggestions. So why not translate that to physical stores?

Emailing your customer base with ‘in-store only’ exclusives, such as a gift with purchase, or flagging up a ‘new in-store’ product gives consumers a reason to come into the store rather than ordering online.

Excellent customer service should apply across all retailers. It's about building relationships with your customers and a good reputation.

Q: Equetech is very much a British brand. Is this important to endusers?

A: Now, more than ever, consumers are becoming aware of British products. We pride ourselves on having a British factory, which gives us

MARCH 2019 EQUESTRIAN TRADE NEWS

www.equestriantradenews.com

41 JWS056 Saddle in Black JWS056Overton Overton Saddle in Black JWS056 Overton Saddle in Black

flexibility and allows us to expand our customised range of products.

Take our equestrian underwear; every component is made in the UK - down to the washing label. These products are essential to export orders, as there is no duty to pay in Commonwealth countries. This is likely to extend to Europe, Brexit permitting.

Q: What will be Equetech’s top three best sellers in 2019?

A: Our showing collection is always very strong, as we offer the biggest ‘off the shelf’ range of clothing. We recommend forward ordering, but we always hold stock, so you can replenish throughout the year. This also applies to our increasingly popular, affordable, off-the-peg hunting range. Legwear remains strong with new styles and durable, well-fitting staples.

Q: Should competition clothing become more casual?

A: Personally, I hope competition wear remains formal because it gives riders a reason to ensure their turnout and that of their horses is always up to scratch. Riders often evaluate their kit before a show too, which is important for safety reasons.

JWS056 JWS056 JWS056

C C M

OvertonJump Jump Saddle Overton Saddle Overton Jump Saddle

Sizes: 16, 16, 16.5, 16.5, 17, 17,17.5, 17.5,18” 18” Colours: Colours: Black Blackoror Havana Sizes: Havana Sizes: 16, 16.5, 17, 17.5, 18” Colours: Black or Havana

RRP: RRP: £845.00 £845.00 RRP: £845.00

M Y Y

CM CM

MY MY CY CY CY CMY CMY CMY K K K

Riding’s formal background stems from the military – and it’s continuously fed equestrian fashion. It would be a shame to lose something that’s unique to our sport and which creates equestrianism’s identity.

Formal riding gear also allows retailers to sell multiple outfits for different competitions. If riders could wear their everyday kit, it would have a big impact on retail sales.

Q: What’s the ‘in’ colour for A/W 2019/20?

A.Turmeric is an enlivening orange that infuses a hint of pungency into the palette, as shown in our new Power Base Layers for 2019.

About the author: Liz Hayman is the managing director and designer of functional, fashionable equestrian label Equetech. www.equestriantradenews.com

cont ra st stitch contrast stitch contrast stitch and andpiping piping and piping

real lea ther real leather real leather upper upper upper

de sign e d for designed for designed for showjumping showjumping showjumping

forwa cut syn thetic lea rdther forward cut synthetic leather forward synthetic leather panels unde rsidecut panels underside panels underside

inte rchan g able interchangable interchangable gulle t ba rs gullet bars gullet bars

shall ow shallow shallow seat seat seat

EQUESTRIAN TRADE NEWS MARCH 2019

Competition Gear

42

Mary King always uses Equus Overreach Boots to go cross country.

UNSUNG HEROES Equus is the name behind all those rubber accessories without which saddlery and tack wouldn’t be the same. ETN finds out why it keeps bouncing back.

F

rom cheek guards to rein grips, Equus Rubber keeps on giving. So it’s good to know that the UK made brand is safe in the hands of Abbey England, a champion of British manufacturing.

Equus Rubber makes its range – also including overreach boots and martingale stops - from rubber compounds. Sourced and developed in England and Wales, these materials are noted for their flexibility and durability in all climates.

Abbey England bought the brand in 2012 from Vale Brothers who had acquired the business from Andy ‘Mr Andrews’ and his business partner Roy Thomas. The pair had had the foresight to set up Equus after leaving Lancashire based Leyland Rubber.

Table tennis

If a horse has shallow heels, I trim the bottom of the overreach boots.

Since the 1920s, Leyland Rubber had been mass producing 50 yard rolls of short pimpled rubber; and it was increasingly being used by saddlers to add grip to reins.

In a turn of fate, it was this same rubber which eventually found its way onto millions of table tennis bats. Apparently it provides the perfect contact surface for ‘ping pong’ balls.

Andy and Roy had been experts at making pimple rubber grip material at Leyland Rubber, and decided to market it more widely to the equestrian world. Initially based in Bordesley Green, Birmingham in rented premises, they moved the business to Willenhall near Walsall where they bought a factory.

Their former business partner, Paul Jones, recalls: “Equus rein grips were soon widely used in the racing world, and when they developed the four-way stretch overreach boot, it was revolutionary. They also developed a range of pre-formed grips in different colours they felt would be suitable for the equestrian trade.”

Another innovative development from Andy and Roy was the Eventa Grip rein, another first in equestrian rubber products.

Family business Richard Brown of Abbey England said that when the opportunity arose to purchase Equus “as a family business we knew immediately it was the right thing to do.

The Eventa Grip rein was another first in equestrian rubber products from Equus.

MARCH 2019 EQUESTRIAN TRADE NEWS

“The quality of Equus rubber products is second to none and they remain as innovative today as they were when Andy and Roy first developed them.”

Today’s Equus rein grips, overreach boots, rein and martingale stops, and cheek guards come in many different colours.

Equus Overreach Boots’ high rubber content means they are easy to pull on (although a Velcro version is offered too), won’t rub and rinse clean.

Top event rider Mary King is a fan, and says: “Equus Overreach Boots are the best. They provide wonderful protection to the horses’ heels but they’re not difficult to pull on and off. If a horse has very shallow heels, I trim one or two centimetres off the bottom of the boots so they won't get trodden on.”

Dressage rider and trainer Beverley Brightman agrees: “I prefer the pull-on version as they have no fastenings, so they never come off.

They are also easy to clean - you just rinse them off and they dry in minutes.”

Equus Rein Grips, available in fine pip or large pip designs, are a favourite with Lincolnshire based racehorse trainer, Nick Kent: “They really stand the test of time and work we put them through with the pimples still intact,” he reports.

Equus Overreach Boots are moulded and made in Britain.

British made Equus products, available from Abbey England, come in many colours.

www.equestriantradenews.com

43

Worming and SQP News 43

It’s not worth the risk, warns vet

All horses of more than six months old should be dosed for the encysted stages of small redworm before the spring arrives.

RECENT cases of serious disease caused by severe encysted small redworm infections have prompted Zoetis vet Wendy Talbot to remind horse owners of the risks posed by not treating for this potentially fatal parasite.

In the Spring, the small redworm larvae can erupt from their hibernation inside the horse’s gut in large numbers, breaking and damaging the lining of the intestinal wall.

Symptoms include diarrhoea, weight loss and colic.

This condition (known as larval cyathostominosis) can be fatal. Young horses (under six) have the highest risk although all ages may be affected.

“Over the past few weeks I have heard of a number of cases of larval cyathostominosis,” says Wendy. “Unfortunately people think their horses are safe from this parasite if they have had a recent, negative faecal worm egg count (FWEC) but this absolutely is not the case.

“Because encysted small redworm are hibernating, they won’t show in faecal worm egg counts. A horse could actually have a burden of several million encysted small redworm larvae yet show a negative or low FWEC.” Currently there is no effective test for encysted stages of small redworm.

All horses of more than six months of age should be dosed for it ideally during the late autumn/early winter and certainly before the spring arrives.

There are only two active ingredients licensed to treat encysted small redworm: a single dose of moxidectin or a five-day course of fenbendazole.

However, there is widespread evidence of resistance in small redworm to fenbendazole, including the five-day dose so a resistance test is recommended before using it. Moxidectin has high efficacy against adult small redworm including encysted mucosal larvae.

“It’s imperative to use the right worming product,” says Wendy. “Treating with a wormer that does not specifically target the encysted stages (ivermectin, pyrantel or single dose fenbendazole) during late autumn and winter can actually increase the risk of a horse with a high ESRW burden developing larval cyathostominosis.”

A horse could have a burden of several million encysted small redworm larvae yet show a negative or low faecal worm egg count.

www.equestriantradenews.com

Treatment in a single dose

EQUEST and Equest Pramox are the only products available to treat for encysted small redworm in a single dose.

Equest is an oral gel containing moxidectin for single dose control of roundworms - including encysted larval stages of small redworms, and bots.

Equest Pramox is an oral gel containing moxidectin and praziquantel for single dose control of all three species of tapeworm, roundworms including encysted larval stages of small redworms, and bots.

Equest and Equest Pramox are licensed for use in breeding, pregnant and lactating mares and have been shown not to adversely affect the fertility of mares.

Equest and Equest Pramox are POM VPS products available in 700kg syringes and have the longest dosing interval (13 weeks) for small strongyles of any equine wormer currently available.

Westgate Laboratories POSTAL WORM COUNTS & TESTS

• Promote routine testing not routine worming with our reliable laboratory worm count services • Tested using the modified McMaster technique • Easy to use and profitable • FREE SQP support & point of sale material Ser v

ice R

ated 144 r eview s

Worm count kits Everything to take and send a sample; same day testing & results; vet approved advice.

NEW! Yard Packs Retail worm egg count packs for yards of 10 & 15 horses now available from Trilanco.

tailored retail worm count options contact us

Bespoke service For retailers and vets to offer their own brand worm count service in house.

from our trusted laboratory

01670 791994 info@westgatelabs.co.uk | www.westgatelabs.co.uk

EQUESTRIAN TRADE NEWS MARCH 2019

Worming and SQP News

44

Two decades in “the poo business” Birthday celebrations at Westgate Labs, from left, Michelle Nolan, Gillian and David Booth, Kristy Hodgson, Sarah Ince, Claire Shand, Emily Dagg, Emma Davison, Lauren Robertson

2019 marks 20 years since Westgate Labs began helping to improve the way horses are wormed in the UK. Founders David and Gillian Booth placed their first advert in Horse & Hound in February 1999 - and when forward-thinking horse owners responded, the concept of postal worm counts was born.

Since then, Westgate Labs has enabled thousands of horse owners and yard managers to move to test based programmes. As well as keeping their animals healthy, it’s helped combat the growing resistance problems of wormers.

As well as providing tests direct to clients, Westgate Labs offers services to SQPs, retailers (including non-SQPs) and vets.

"Throughout the 1990s, we were hearing a lot about wormer resistance problems in sheep - but the standard practice for horses was still to worm them regularly,” says managing director David Booth.

“Coming from a science background, the evidence based approach made so much more sense. After a bit of research we set about organising worm counts for the horses we kept at home.

“The concept worked brilliantly but the results took ages to come back and the interpretation was none existent. It piqued my entrepreneurial streak…”

Thirty years’ lab experience gave David a head start.

“We set out to design a service that would make it as easy as possible

CPD deadline looms SQPS must accrue a minimum CPD (continuing professional development) points to maintain their qualification. And the current points-collecting cycle ends on 30 June this year.

So to help SQPs meet the deadline, ETN and AMTRA are offering extra CPD topping up opportunities.

ETN will be running additional SQP CPD features and quizzes in April and May issues, with CPD points to be earned, in upcoming issues.

Meanwhile AMTRA and AHDA (Animal Health Distributors Association) have announced a multi-venue 2019 CPD roadshow. Running from May until the end of June, it will take in 12 locations across England, Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland. Find out more at www.amtra.org.uk • ETN’s AMTRA accredited SQP CPD features can be found within the magazine and at www.equestriantradenews.com where SQPs can take the quizzes – and earn points - online.

• SQPs are suitably qualified persons examined as competent to prescribe and supply certain animal medicines including wormers.

A new regulator in the pipeline?

VETPOL is launching online training for SQPs and is in the process of gaining accreditation for its courses.

The company also says it aims to become a regulator of SQPs later this year.

“Our long-term vision is to establish a business of veterinary pharmacy professionals capable of delivering real value to the customers and businesses they serve,” said Vetpol director Caroline Johnson.

MARCH 2019 EQUESTRIAN TRADE NEWS

for people to adopt testing as the cornerstone of parasite control,” he said.

“Drug resistance is a black cloud hanging over the wellbeing of our horses, yet it’s often little discussed or talked about.

“We often joke about ‘the poo business’ being the unglamorous side of horse keeping, but it’s very rewarding to play a part in improving this important aspect of horse healthcare.”

From early days occupying a small still room at the family farm in rural Northumberland, Westgate Labs has grown into a purpose built laboratory space in the converted piggery.

It became a limited company in 2003 and now employs ten local people and a consultant vet.

For flexible dosing EQUIMAX and Eraquell equine wormers offers flexible dosing options, and are available in syringe and tablet form.

Equimax is the ideal choice for strategic Spring and autumn worming, treating roundworms, bots and all three species of tapeworm in a single dose, says manufacturer Virbac.

Eraquell is the ideal choice when summer worming for roundworm is required.

Both POM-VPS products are available in ergonomic syringes to treat up to 700 kg bodyweight; or as Tabs to treat up to 800kg bodyweight – a useful alternative for horses that are difficult to worm with syringes.

Equimax contains praziquantel and ivermectin. Eraquell contains ivermectin.

Highlighting SQPs’ work THE animal health industry body NOAH has launched a factsheet focussing on what SQPs have to offer.

It’s the latest in a series aimed at helping the public understand roles within the animal health sector - and part of NOAH’s Blueprint for Animal Health. More details at www.noah. co.uk/campaigns/blueprint-animal-health/ www.equestriantradenews.com

45

MN AUTU ER WINT

CLEAR THE CHALLENGE

OF ENCYSTED SMALL REDWORM

Prescribe

or

the ONLY single dose control for encysted small redworm @horsedialog

HorseDialog

EQUEST contains moxidectin. EQUEST PRAMOX contains moxidectin and praziquantel. POM-VPS . Date of preparation: October 2016 AH532/16.

Further information is available on the SPC or contact Zoetis UK Ltd, Walton Oaks, Tadworth, KT20 7NS. EQUEST & EQUEST PRAMOX are registered trademarks of Zoetis UK Ltd.

Use medicines responsibly: www.noah.co.uk/responsible.

www.equestriantradenews.com

EQUESTRIAN TRADE NEWS MARCH 2019

SQP CPD Feature

46

ETN’s series of CPD features helps SQPs (Suitably Qualified Persons) earn the CPD (continuing professional development) points they need. The features are accredited by AMTRA, and highlight some of the most important subject areas for SQPs specialising in equine and companion animal medicine.

AMTRA is required by the Veterinary Medicines Regulations to ensure its SQPs undertake CPD. All SQPs must earn a certain number of CPD points in a given period of time in order to retain their qualification. SQPs who read the following feature and submit correct answers to the questions below will receive two CPD points. For more about AMTRA and becoming an SQP, visit www.amtra.org.uk

TODAY’S CHALLENGES

By Dr Victoria Warnock MRCVS 80% of the worm burden is carried by just 20% of horses. So most horses have a consistently low worm burden.

T

raditionally, worm control strategies have involved treatment with anthelmintics (wormers) at regular intervals, an approach developed over 40 years ago when infestation with large redworms (large strongyles) was common and regular treatment was crucial to maintain horse health.

Anthelmintics have been hugely effective in controlling large redworms, but this has created the vacuum for another prevalent parasite to fill.

Today, the most common worms infesting horses are small redworms (cyathostomes). These bring a different challenge to our worm control programmes. Due to widespread resistance to some anthelmintics classes, we need to tread the line of controlling these parasites, whilst maintaining the effectiveness of our anthelmintics. To do this, we must remember that whilst all grazing horses may be infested with small redworms, in low numbers they will not cause health issues and will only cause disease when high numbers are present. Importantly, research MARCH 2019 EQUESTRIAN TRADE NEWS

has shown that 80% of the worm burden is carried by just 20% of horses.1 This means that most horses have a consistently low worm burden.

Worm management should therefore involve a combination of identifying those horses carrying the highest worm burdens and treating these animals with an appropriate wormer, alongside good pasture management.

What is resistance?

Resistance is when a wormer has lost its ability to kill more than 90-95% of the target worm population.2 Resistant worms then thrive in the absence of the non-resistant worms, contaminating the pasture with eggs and enabling the development of further resistant adult parasites. In the long term, if we do not act to reduce the development of resistance we will end up in the crisis situation where none of our wormers remain effective. www.equestriantradenews.com

47

SQP CPD Feature but removal of droppings will always be the most effective method as it is the only way to reduce ingestion of worm larvae and reduce re-infection. Good pasture management should always be carried out alongside FWECs

Faecal Worm Egg Counts (FWEC) Targeted dosing following the results of a FWEC can help to reduce the development of resistance. It can also save money as fewer wormers may be required. FWEC packs are readily available from commercial laboratories or veterinary surgeons.

FWECs are simple, horse owners just need to collect a dung sample every two to three months during the summer grazing season and send to the testing lab via the instructions on the packaging. The lab will count the number of worm eggs in the sample.

Good pasture management means removing all droppings from grazing at least twice a week.

How can we reduce the speed of resistance development?

Resistance may be an inevitable consequence of the use of wormers to control parasite burdens, however we can take steps to slow down its development so that wormers continue to provide effective treatment: 1. Use faecal worm egg counts (FWEC) to identify those horses with the greatest worm burdens, then only treat these horses.

During spring and summer months, this treatment should be with a wormer containing ivermectin or pyrantel- these anthelmintics target adult parasites which at this time of year will make up the majority of the small redworm population. Ivermectin or pyrantel are recommended due to widespread resistance to the benzimidazole group of wormers. Treating only the adult stages with means that any immature stages (in the gut wall) will not be exposed to the anthelmintic wormer. These untreated worms are referred to as "in refugia" (meaning “not exposed to the wormer”) and provide a useful way to dilute any resistant worms.

2. Additionally, we want to try to protect wormers containing moxidectin, which is effective against the encysted stages of small redworm, for when we really need to target this stage during the late autumn/winter.

3. By not treating horses that have low or insignificant worm burdens, we have a further population of worms “in refugia” to dilute any resistant worms that have survived the treatment in the wormed horses.

4. When horses are wormed it is important to accurately dose according to bodyweight. Under-dosing with insufficient treatment for the size of animal means the wormer won’t be as effective and resistance is more likely to develop.

5. Given that resistance is developing to all anthelmintic classes, it is recommended that a faecal worm egg count reduction test is performed, which involves performing a second faecal worm egg count approximately 3 weeks post dosing to confirm that the anthelmintic is effective.

6. Pasture management is a hugely important weapon in our fight against worms. There are a number of ways we can effectively manage pasture to minimise worm burdens (see below)

Advice to Owners: Pasture Management Methods • Remove all droppings from pasture at least twice a week.

• Mixed grazing using sheep or cattle, as horse worm eggs can’t survive in other species.

• Pasture resting. At least 3 months is needed. Hot and dry weather is the best time for this.3 • Try not to overstock paddocks, 1-1.5 acres is recommended as a minimum per horse.

• Pasture rotation. Divide paddocks up, so that they can be alternately grazed and rested.

• Group by risk. Youngstock should be grouped together as they are at increased risk of high worm burdens and will need their own worming strategy.

• New arrivals should be quarantined and tested. www.equestriantradenews.com

Advice for owners: How to collect a dung sample for a FWEC: • Collect a fresh sample, ideally just after the dung has been produced.

• Wearing a disposable glove use at least three different balls of faeces to make up a sample3 • Turn the glove inside out while holding the dung sample so that it ends up inside the inverted glove, squeeze the air out and tie a knot at the opening to seal it.

• Complete the documentation and package it following the instructions provided.

• Make sure you send the sample before the last post of the day, so it stays fresh. If there is any delay refrigerate the sample until it is sent.

• Post only on Monday to Thursday to avoid delays.

• Horses must not have been wormed within 14 days of testing.

• All horses grazing together should be tested at the same time.

Results of the FWEC The lab will inform the horse owner of the results of the FWEC. If the FWEC is 200 eggs per gram2 or less we should advise owners not to treat, as this is a low burden and is not considered harmful to the horse.

If the FWEC is greater than 200 eggs per gram then over the summer, owners should be advised to worm the horse with a treatment that will kill adult worms. This means using a wormer containing ivermectin, or pyrantel.

Conclusion From spring through to the end of summer, worm control should be a combination of good pasture management to reduce contamination, faecal worm egg counts to identify horses carrying the highest worm burdens, and adulticide wormers (ivermectin or pyrantel) administered in only those identified as having high egg counts.

During the late autumn, it may be appropriate to treat with moxidectin to kill encysted redworm larvae. Some horses may require additional doses of moxidectin during the winter and spring if pasture management is poor.3 If we follow these recommendations, we will achieve the aim of reducing the risk of ill effects in our horses, whilst helping to safeguard our wormers for the future.

1. Lester HE, Bartley DJ, Morgan ER, Hodgkinson JE, Stratford CH, Matthews JB. A cost comparison of faecal egg count-directed anthelmintic delivery versus interval programme treatments in horses. Vet Rec. 2013b; 173(15):371. doi: 10.1136/vr.101804 2. Kaplan, R.M., Nielsen, M.K., 2010. An evidence-based approach to equine parasite control: It ain’t the 60s anymore.

Equine Vet. Educ. 22, 306-316.

3. Rendle D, Austin C, Bowen M, Cameron I, Furtado T, Hodgkinson J, McGorum B, Matthews J. Equine deworming: a consensus on current best practice. UKVET Equine. 2019; 3(Supplement 1) doi: 10.12968/ ukve.2019.3.S.3 About the author: Dr Victoria Warnock MRCVS is the equine technical services manager from Boehringer Ingelheim Animal Health, manufacturer of Eqvalan and Eqvalan Duo.

CPD Quiz

EQUESTRIAN TRADE

Over Page

ns it o N es ET u Q 19 0 D CP ch 2 P r SQ Ma SELECT YOUR ANSWERS AND TICK THE BOXES

SQP CPD quiz

1. In the UK, what are the most common worms that are infesting our horses?

A Pinworms

B Roundworms

C S mall Redworms 2. Research has shown that 80% of the worm burden is carried

by XX% of horses?

A 15%

B 20%

C 25% 3. Resistance is confirmed when an anthelmintic has lost the ability to kill XX% of the target worm population?

A 85-90%

B 95-97%

C 90-95% 4. True or false, it is recommended that during spring and summer months, the horse owner should use a wormer containing ivermectin or pyrantel to treat the horses they have identified with the higher worm burdens.

A True

B False 5. Which of the following is NOT recommended to do to collect a dung sample for a Faecal Worm Egg Count?

AC ollect a fresh sample, ideally a day after the dung has been produced.

B Post only on Monday to Thursday to avoid delays.

CH orses must not have been wormed 14 days prior to testing.

6. During the summer grazing season, how often should a horse owner collect a dung sample for a Faecal Worm Egg Count?

A Every fortnight

B Every month

C Every 2-3 months 7. Which of the following is used to kill encysted small redworm larvae?

A Ivermectin

B Pyrantel

C Moxidectin 8. True or false, it is recommended that by treating all horses with low or insignificant worm burdens, you will have a further population of worms “in refugia” to dilute any resistant worms that have survived the treatment in the wormed horses?

A True

B False 9. Which of the following methods is recommended for good pasture management?

A 1-1.5 acres is recommended as a minimum per horse.

B Rest pasture for up to one month

C Remove all droppings from the pasture every fortnight 10. The majority of small redworms will be egg laying adults during:

A The winter and spring months

B The spring and summer months

C The summer and autumn months

March 2019

TWO CPD POINTS

Full name............................................................................

Company name/address ..................................................... ..........................................................................................

Email .................................................................................

Telephone number..............................................................

SQP Number.......................................................................

Send your completed answers to: ETN/CPD Feature, Equestrian Trade News, East Wing, Stockeld Park, Wetherby, West Yorks, LS22 4AW. FIND IT ONLINE: ETN’s SMS CPD features are also available at www.equestriantradenews.com If you submit answers to the quiz online, please do not submit them by filling out the printed form as well – and vice versa.

2020

New Year, New Ideas, New Products – Save the date!

Trade Show 19 - 21 January NEC, Birmingham, UK Contact Darren Mottershead: T:+44 (0)1937 582111 Email: darrenm@beta-int.com

www.beta-int.com The Voice of the Equestrian Industry

Main Sponsor Main Sponsor

!

MARCH 2019 EQUESTRIAN TRADE NEWS

48

Official Media Partner www.equestriantradenews.com

BETA Members' Page 49

New member benefit CITRUS-LIME, a specialist in EPOS and stock-control solutions, is offering BETA retail members a fantastic, free bundle of till peripherals when signing up to 12 months of the company's Cloud Point of Sale. The goodies, worth £495, include a cash drawer, receipt printer, till rolls, barcode scanner and milestone saver. If you are interested and would like to find out more, call Citrus-Lime on 01229 588628.

TRAINING THE TRADE WE HAVE an exciting range of BETA training courses running throughout the year and, from March to June, there is still availability on the following: March 20 – Rider Safety Equipment Fitting Course, HAPPA, Burnley, Lancashire. Fee: BETA members £80, non-members £160 and SMS members £125.

May 21 – Introduction to Rules and Regulations Governing Feed Marketing in the UK, Stoneleigh Park, Warwickshire. Fee: BETA members £125, non-members £205 and SMS members £150.

May 23 – NOPS Technical Course, Stoneleigh Park, Warwickshire. Fee: BETA members £125, non-members £205 and SMS members £150.

June 26 – Rider Safety Equipment Fitting Course, Stoneleigh Park, Warwickshire. Fee: BETA members £80, non-members £160 and SMS members £125.

Please note that VAT will be added to all course fees.

BETA also offers a full CPD programme with a General and Equine module – and training courses for those wishing to become SQPs (Animal Medicines). If you want information about these – and all other BETA training courses – please get in touch with the BETA office.

Five Minutes with. . . Sara Blackshaw THIS feature provides the ideal opportunity to put faces to names and find out a little more about the people who are BETA members – including those with a place on the BETA Council. This month, we catch up with SARA BLACKSHAW, senior product manager at Mole Valley Farmers, who has just taken over as chair of the BETA Retail Committee.

Q: WHAT DO YOU HOPE TO ACHIEVE IN THIS NEW ROLE? All retail businesses are currently experiencing unprecedented challenges at this unusual time. As a committee coming together, I would hope we can strengthen and assist each other with combined experience and knowledge to help make us all better and stronger businesses.

Q: DO YOU THINK BETA MEMBERSHIP IS IMPORTANT FOR RETAILERS? Being a BETA member adds assurance, help and guidance to any company working in the equestrian industry.

Q: HAVE YOU ALWAYS WORKED IN THE EQUESTRIAN INDUSTRY? I started my working life as an executive chef in the city, preparing directors' lunches, and teaching aerobics in the evenings. I then became involved in the fashion industry for 14 years, working my way up to head buyer for Alexon, before coming into the equestrian business.

Q: DO YOU HAVE ANY HOBBIES OR INTERESTS OUTSIDE WORK HOURS? Most of my time is taken up with riding, as I am lucky enough to have horses at home. I love the process of training horses up through the levels and I try to compete when I can and do BD dressage. After a long break, I am hoping to do a few small BE events this year before I am too long in the tooth!

For further information

CONTACT TINA HUSTLER AT BETA Tel: 01937 587062

Website: www.beta-uk.org Email: tina@beta-uk.org East Wing, Stockeld Park, Wetherby, West Yorkshire LS22 4AW Claire Williams, Executive Director , claire@beta-uk.org, Philippa Macintosh, Assistant to Claire Williams, philippa@beta-uk.org, Tricia Nassau-Williams, Field Officer, tricia@beta-uk.org, Ann FitzGerald, Secretary, ann@beta-uk.org, Deborah Hayward, Press Officer, deborahh@beta-int.com www.equestriantradenews.com

EQUESTRIAN TRADE NEWS MARCH 2019

Classified

CCJs

50

County Court Judgments from England and Wales and the Scottish version, which are called Court Decrees.

The judgments listed are those recorded by the Registry Trust Ltd and appear to be of a commercial nature. Judgments/Decrees can be for damages rather than debts, and their listing here does not imply an inability to pay.

STOCKIST REQUIRED

STOCKISTS REQUIRED for the

BE NICE HALTER SERIES II (UK) (By kind permission of the late Be Nice Halter Company - USA)

The most effective halter you will ever use now crafted with care in the UK

Call us now for a competitive quote Contact Beth Crow on Tel. 01937 582111 Email: bethc@beta-int.com

TACK AND FIELD LIMITED, 1 BEAUFORT WEST, BATH, ENGLAND, BA1 6QB, £902

DUETT SADDLES LIMITED, 1A 15 CHELSEA EMBANKMENT, LONDON, ENGLAND, SW3 4LA, £247

“beware of imitations” Tel: 07767 687983 Email: janet@thewesterndepartment.com Web: www.thewesterndepartment.com

Dragon Display Advert 90w x 40h.qxp_Dragon Display Advert 90w x 40h 01/06

SHOP FITTINGS

MATHESON STUD COMPANY LIMITED, THE OLD FARM HOUSE, HIGHER TREGAWNE, WITHIEL, BODMIN, PL30 5NS, £194

Bring your display up-market! (without breaking the bank) Makers of shop-fitting systems. for Clothing & equipment: including equestrian centres.

EQUINE ASSOCIATES LIMITED, UNIT 4, VISTA PLACE, COY POND BUSINESS PK, INGWORTH ROAD, BH12 1JY, £902

www.dragondisplay.co.uk

Display Systems Ltd

01952 290055

samantha.roberts@agecko.com

MH EQUINE SUPPLIES LTD, 20-22 WENLOCK ROAD, LONDON, ENGLAND, N1 7GU, £482

E-COMMERCE OPPORTUNITY E-commerce Shop Opportunity Do you sell quality equine products online? Are you struggling to get the sales you need and to reach an active, engaged audience with cash to spend? www.righthorserighthome.co.uk is a popular horse selling / loaning website with over 180,000 page views per month and highly ranked on google.

We are seeking an equestrian e-commerce company to partner with and showcase their products to increase sales.

To find out more email cara@righthorserighthome.co.uk

EQUINE COUNTRY LIMITED, 73 COLNEY HATCH LANE, LONDON, ENGLAND, N10 1LR, £902

JB SHELTERS EQUESTRIAN LTD, UNIT 14, THE WALLOWS INDUSTRIAL ESTATE, WALLOWS ROAD, BRIERLEY HILL, DY5 1QB, £346

MARK HUNT T/AS ALEXANDER HUNT HORSEBOXES, DEENE END, UPPER BENEFIELD, PETERBOROUGH, PE8 5AL, £24,570

List your website here

ALEX MARSH T/AS HORSE RIDING SURREY, HIGH STOVOLDS FARM, STOVOLDS HILL, CRANLEIGH, SURREY, GU6 8LE, £2,604

For more information call 01937 582111 PEGASUS HORSE & CARRIAGE MASTERS LTD, OLD CHURCH FARM, FLEGGBURGH ROAD, GREAT YARMOUTH, NR29 5HH, £902

M E C (HORSEBOXES) LIMITED, FAIRACRE, ASTLEY MOSS, ASTLEY, TYLDESLEY, M29 7LY, £873

JOHN MOORHOUSE T/AS FILMHORSES UK, SUNNYFIELD FARM, WINNYHILL, STOCKTON-ON-TEES, TS21 1BJ, £4,373

2020

NEC, Birmingham, UK 19-21 January www.beta-int.com

MARCH 2019 EQUESTRIAN TRADE NEWS

Main Sponsor

APPOINTMENT OF LIQUIDATOR J B SHELTERS EQUESTRIAN LIMITED, UNIT 14 WALLOWS INDUSTRIAL EST, WALLOWS ROAD, BRIERLEY HILL, WEST MIDLANDS, DY5 1QB

www.equestriantradenews.com

n

wh

no

*S

d Lt

Ltd

hill Trad * Snow e Sa d

dl

er

y

Harlequin Lycra Hat Covers

Fleece rug perfect for stable or travel use. Featuring cross over surcingles and double chest straps.

Product Code: C657 Colour: Navy Sizes: 4’6 to 7’0

Standard Cotton Lead Rope

Standard cotton lead rope with trigger clip.

Product Code: C767(pack of 10) Colours: Mixed Sizes: One Size

WAS £12.95

NOW £7.50

PACK OF 10

DEAL £10.00

Product Code: C340 (pack of 10) Colours: Black, Burgundy, Navy, Purple, Raspberry, Royal Blue, Red, Tangerine, Turquoise, Black/Purple, Black/Red, Green/Yellow, Navy/Red, Royal/Red

WAS £3.95 each

DEAL £15.00 PACK OF 10 mixed colours

Harlequin Headcollar and Rope Set A great value matching headcollar and lead rope set for everyday use.

Product Code: 336 Colours: Black, Purple/Black, Navy, Red/Black, Red/Navy, Red Sizes: Shetland, Pony, Cob, Full

ONLY! £2.50

T: 01243 672323 | F: 01243 672424 EQUESTRIAN TRADE NEWS MARCH 2019 E: sales@snowhill.ltd.uk | www.snowhilltradesaddlery.co.uk

www.equestriantradenews.com

ry

Harlequin MultiPurpose Fleece Rug

le

NOW £18.50

dd

Product Code: C646 Colours: Zebra/Black, Silver Sizes: 4’6” to 7’0”

WAS £22.50

NOW £12.50

Sa

WAS £18.50

de

Rhinegold Adult Leather Gaiters

ll T ra

OFFERS !

Product Code: C758 Colours: Black Sizes: S, M, L, XL

Super functional summer rug 600 denier, waterproof, ripstop, breathable upper rug fly rug as lower.

T

Ltd * Snowhi

de Saddle ill Tra ry

Ltd

*S

March

Soft leather gaiters with a comfortable elasticated leather panel at the calf for ease of movement and variation in fit.

Rhinegold Masai2 Full Neck Outdoor/Fly Rug

ll

lery

MAKING SPACE FOR NEW MODEL - SUMMER 2019

hi

dd

T: 01243 672323 | F: 01243 672424 E: sales@snowhill.ltd.uk | www.snowhilltradesaddlery.co.uk

addlery Ltd * de S Sno w

Sa

Wholesale Saddlery and Country Clothing Suppliers

ra ll T

de

Snowhill Trade Saddlery

hi

ra

51

ow

52

EVERYTHING HE NEEDS RIGHT UNDER HIS NOSE 20Kg

LOW SUGAR, LOW STARCH, CEREAL FREE

Certification Mark

Suitable for equines prone to gastric ulcers as part of a balanced diet

Suitable for horses & ponies prone to gastric ulcers • Strong regional manager network to support in-store promotions.

• Extensive national advertising campaign and engaging online presence.

• Promotional point of sale material including giveaways.

• Endorsed, promoted and trusted by world class riders for over 10 years.

Sarah Rusby: +44 (0)7894 611898 - North of England Kate Hayward: +44 (0)7802 815596 - Midlands Rosie King: +44 (0)7736 881029 - East Anglia

Nic Read: +44 (0)7841 045273 - South East Lucy Sweeting: +44 (0)7736 825571 - South West England & Southern Wales

Tel: +44 (0)1622 718487 Email: info@saracenhorsefeeds.co.uk or visit www.saracenhorsefeeds.com MARCH 2019 EQUESTRIAN TRADE NEWS

#HeNose

Working with

www.equestriantradenews.com