ETN (Equestrian Trade News) - October 2022

OCTOBER 2022

Volume 46, No 8

BETA 2022

INTERNATIONAL Report, pictures and award winners

CHRISTMAS CRACKERS! PRACTICAL PRESENTS TO BOOST SEASONAL SALES

PLUS

ETN is the official media partner of BETA International

2023 • BEST-SELLING SUPPLEMENTS • RETAILER IN THE HOT SEAT • MAKE THE MOST OF BLACK FRIDAY

September

NAEC Stoneleigh, Warwickshire, UK Main Sponsor

Main Sponsor

Snowhill Trade Saddlery

October Offers

Limited

Rhinegold Thor Outdoor Rug • • • •

Stock!

Waterproof 1000 Denier 350gsm Polyfill Heavy Weight

Product Code: 664 Sizes: 5’0” to 7’3”

Trade Price was £32.50

NOW £28.50

Rhinegold Economy Combo Stable Quilt • • • •

Cotton Lined 200gsm Polyfill Combo Full Neck Design Supplied with fillet string

Product Code: C200 Sizes: 5’0” to 7’0”

Trade Price

£22.90

Clearance Pack Of 10 Haynets 36” Haynets in solid colours, packs of 10 Product Code: 349

Rhinegold Essential Jodhpurs • • • •

Four way stretch fabric Reinforced knee patches Zip front pocket Double brss clip fastening

Product Code: C704 Sizes: 8 - 18 Colours: Turquoise, Raspberry

Trade Price was £13.50

NOW £9.50

Become a Stockist

Trade Price

£10.00

Rhinegold Performance Riding Tights • • •

Polyester/Spandex close fitting stretch material Silicone dot knee Zip pocket in rear of waistband

Product Code: 746 Sizes: 8 - 18

Trade Price was £15.90

NOW £12.50

Cotton Lead Rope - Pack Of 10 Black, Black/Purple, Green/Yellow, Navy, Navy/Red, Raspberry, Royal Blue, Royal/Red, Red/White/Blue, Red, Tangerine, Turquoise Product Code: C340

Trade Price

£10.00

Contact us to find out how on: sales@snowhill.ltd.uk - 01243 672323 - www.snowhilltradesaddlery.co.uk

Editor’s comment I

t usually takes a real personal crisis – like divorce or serious illness - for horse owners to cut back on their equestrian expenditure. But as I write, it looks like nearly every horsey consumer is experiencing economic shock, with knockon effects on their disposable income.

If it hasn’t already, it’s going to force those already keeping horses on a shoestring to cut back. Welfare organisations must be bracing themselves for a really tough winter ahead.

It’s a sweeping generalisation, but the horse owning public broadly appears divided into two extremes. There are those whose financial security insulates them from a cost-of-living increase; and others who survive from one pay-day to the next and would rather live on cornflakes than give up their horses.

Product sales are reflecting this, with huge demand for ‘value’ brands while premium products remain ever popular with their fans. It’s the heavily populated middle market that needs to watch out.

Veterinary medicine has galloped ahead in the last couple of decades. But still those old chestnuts, like mud fever, persist with no easy solutions.

Indeed, when it comes to mud fever, there remains disagreement about the best course of action, even among professionals.

One vet wrote in ETN not so long ago that he had found mud fever less prevalent in horses whose legs were washed off in cold water. This month, another vet advocates leaving mud on to dry, or washing in warm water (followed by drying) if needs be.

FRONT COVER:

BETA International 2022 brought together buyers and suppliers BETA for three action2022 packed days at the NAEC, PLUS Stoneleigh on 11 – 13 September.

Read a full report and find out who won awards in this issue of ETN.

OCTOBER 2022

Volume 46, No 8

INTERNATIONAL Report, pictures and award winners

CHRISTMAS CRACKERS!

PRACTICAL PRESENTS TO BOOST SEASONAL SALES

• BEST-SELLING SUPPLEMENTS • RETAILER IN THE HOT SEAT • MAKE THE MOST OF BLACK FRIDAY

How amazing, considering the great advances made in veterinary science, that there’s still no sure-fire cure for this commonplace equine disease that causes so much misery for horses and owners alike.

For retailers, of course, mud fever presents a perennial sales opportunity. No off-the-shelf product can, by law, claim to be a cure or treatment; however, judicious use of such products – along with good management - undoubtedly contributes towards prevention.

Likewise, good feeding and correct use of balancers and supplements helps ensure overall equine health, supports a strong immune system and the ability to resist skin problems.

Indeed, if owners wish to avoid costly vets’ bills this winter, prevention is where their priorities should lie.

In this issue...

NEWS

Latest happenings

PRODUCT NEWS

New and useful lines to stock

PEOPLE

Who’s new, who’s moved?

SOCIAL MEDIA MATTERS

When customers want you 24/7

BETTER BUSINESS

Make the most of Black Friday

RETAILER PROFILE

Hidden Oak Equine and Country

BENCH SADDLER OF THE MONTH Kirsty Thomson

IN THE HOT SEAT

With Kathryn Jaquet

BETA INTERNATIONAL 2022 Reports, results and pictures

10

14

16

17

18

20

22

25

AMTRA ACCREDITED CPD FEATURE AND QUIZ Equine respiratory issues

A great deal of effort is going into creating a more inclusive horse industry.

But surely, we are – and have been for some time – among the most non-judgmental spheres there is.

Men and women have competed on equals terms in equestrianism for many years, same-sex relationships have been warmly accepted for decades and when an octogenarian rode in this summer’s Newmarket Plate, no-one can accuse us of ageism.

One thing our industry does need is new, young blood. So what a shame that Burghley was pay-to-view at £20 this year, apart from a few meagre BBC highlights.

Television or free livestream coverage is the best way to garner the general public’s enthusiasm for a sport. I accidentally watched some wind surfing the other day, and was transfixed by it. If only I was 20 years younger… But there’s no way I’d fork out 20 quid to watch it again.

The general public won’t pay for something they know little about; and in eventing’s case, probably won’t even have heard about. Excluding the non-involved public makes a sport appear elitist, even when it’s trying its best not to be.

4

SUPPLEMENTS AND BALANCERS Putting science into practice Supporting retail staff Product gallery

30

34 38 40

TURN BACK THE PAGES

What ETN was reporting five, ten, 20 and 30 years ago 46

CHRISTMAS GIFTS

Ideas to boost seasonal sales

WINTER HORSE CARE A vet’s mud fever advice Product gallery

DOGS FEATURE

Keep your customers’ canines happy

47

52 54

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ETN is the official media partner of BETA International

2023 September

NAEC Stoneleigh, Warwickshire, UK Main Sponsor

Main Sponsor

Liz Benwell Liz Benwell

WWW.EQUESTRIANTRADENEWS.COM

EQUESTRIAN TRADE NEWS OCTOBER 2022 | 3

ETN | NEWS

News Feed firm’s environmental efforts recognised Dengie has achieved bronze status for Investors in the Environment, a national accreditation scheme.

The recognition involved Dengie meeting criteria such as having a recycling scheme in place, a waste reduction plan, and a social responsibility policy.

The Essex based company has switched to 100% renewable energy with zero carbon dioxide emissions.

It’s introduced hybrid and electric cars

Equestrian Trade News East Wing, Stockeld Park, Wetherby, West Yorkshire, LS22 4AW Tel: 01937 582111 Email: info@equestriantradenews.com Website: www.equestriantradenews.com Subscriptions Distributed on a controlled-circulation basis to the retail trade. Paid-for annual subscriptions are £39.95 (UK), £73.00 (Europe), £86.00 (rest of the world).

Design & Print Designed and produced on behalf of EMC by DJ Murphy Publishers: www.djmurphy.co.uk Email: abi@djmurphy.co.uk Tel: 01428 601020 Publisher Equestrian Management Consultants Ltd Editor Liz Benwell Email: editor@equestriantradenews.com 4 | EQUESTRIAN TRADE NEWS OCTOBER 2022

into its fleet, installed solar panels on new office buildings, and uses as much recycled plastic as it can in its packaging.

Dengie says it uses about 60 tonnes of recycled plastic material in its feed bags per year – equal to approximately 150,000 four-pint milk bottles.

Since its solar panels were installed in 2019, the excess energy generated has put enough energy back into the grid to supply the average household with electricity for four years.

Advertising Manager Evie Edgar Email: etn@djmurphy.co.uk Tel: 01428 601031

www.carbonbalancedpape r.com CBP123456

Abi Cannon Email: etn@djmurphy.co.uk Tel: 01428 601028 Digital Manager Nicki Lewis Email: nickil@beta-int.com The magazine is independent of all groups. Editorial views expressed in ETN are not necessarily the official view of any organisation or group.

Copyright All material is copyright Equestrian Management Consultants Ltd NEED MORE NEWS? Receive ETN’s weekly e-newsletter directly to your inbox. It’s free and you can sign up at www.equestriantradenews.com

“Sustainability is inherent in everything we do at Dengie and our recent achievements are a reflection of the importance we place on continually striving to be more efficient,” said managing director Ian Hassard.

“Achieving bronze status with Investors in the Environment is great recognition for all the work the team at Dengie are doing to ensure that we continue to produce the highest quality feeds in harmony with the environment.”

ADVERTISERS’ INDEX Absorbine 51 Agrihealth OBC Balanced Horse Feeds 39 Bedmax 33 Bettalife OFC Citrus-Lime 58 DJ Murphy Publishers 58 Dodson & Horrell 37 Fieldhouse 21 Freestep 55 H.Bradshaws 24 Horse First 15 Horslyx 44 Jenkinsons 3&9 Just Togs 21 Likit 43 NAF 7 PelGar International 43 Perry Equestrian 43 Premier Equine 13 Red Gorilla IBC Robinson Animal Healthcare 51 Snowhill Trade Saddlery IFC STUBBS England 23 Western & English Sales Association 33

WWW.EQUESTRIANTRADENEWS.COM

NEWS | ETN

Underwear brand changes hands Riders’ underwear specialist Derriere Equestrian has a new owner.

Claire Galor, who founded the business in 2014, has sold it to chartered accountant, model and dressage rider Laura Thyer.

Laura (29) became the ‘face’ of Derriere Equestrian after winning a competition.

She’s continued to wear and promote the brand.

As well as running Derriere Equestrian, Claire has been working for Saddlery Brands International for four years, and is currently its head of sales and marketing for Europe.

She continues to act as a day-a-month consultant to Derriere Equestrian for six months as Laura takes over. The company’s warehouse is to move to Somerset, and it will continue to supply the trade.

“We’re 100% keen to sell to retail shops, that’s really important to me,” Laura told ETN. “I’m so excited to have my own project and company. I’ve struggled with discomfort when riding, so I use the products every day. I pop them on and I’m good to go… for riding, for work and for the gym.”

Laura’s plans for Derriere Equestrian are to continue Claire’s “great work in evolving the brand” while adding her own touches.

“Sustainability is something I’m passionate about,” she explained, “it would be amazing to go in that direction.”

Claire says Laura’s acquisition means

Claire Galor (left) has sold Derriere Equestrian to Laura Thyer who was the ‘face’ of the riders’ underwear brand.

Derriere Equestrian is “going into really strong hands. Laura has the energy and enthusiasm. She’s a focussed businesswoman and will be a huge asset to our industry.”

Laura’s and Claire’s paths first crossed when a 14-year-old Laura was on the British pony dressage team and Claire was working as its equine physio.

“I was looking after the ponies, working with [then team trainer] Peter Storr.

I’d noticed Laura as being so tall and

WILD BIRD FOOD SITE CLOSES

Lancashire based wild bird food specialist Croston Corn Mill has closed its website.

“We’ve been through some very challenging times over the last couple of years and the latest problems caused by our supply chain, shipping and continued price increases have been hard to bear,” said managing director Mark Greenwood in a message to customers.

The business will now concentrate solely on its instore operation at the Corn Mill in Leyland.

SHOP FOR SHARES

UK tech firm WeShop is giving away shares in the company every time consumers purchase goods through any retailer on its platform.

WeShop says its business model is designed to take on the likes of Amazon. Its shares will be trade-able on the stock market.

“Instead of handing over yet more billions to the likes of [Amazon founder] Jeff Bezos, WeShop has pledged to hand over 90% of the company to its users,” said a spokesman.

20% of the price of every purchase is given back to shoppers in WeShop shares.

WWW.EQUESTRIANTRADENEWS.COM

elegant… then in 2015, she entered our model of the year competition and was chosen to become the face of Derriere Equestrian.

“Laura has continued to ride at advanced level, become a renowned model and is also a qualified chartered accountant with her own business. My accountant was due to retire, so I asked Laura to take over my books,” said Claire.

“It’s incredibly exciting that Laura’s bought the brand I launched.”

Brand retails more equestrian safety products Equisafety – famous for its hi-viz clothing and accessories - has launched a website to retail its own and other leading brands’ safety products.

The likes of Airowear, Champion, Equilibrium, Freejump and Gatehouse are listed at www. equisafety.com; alongside Helite, KBF99, LeMieux, Racesafe and uvex.

The site also features products from Equisafety’s Polite and Mercury collections.

“We’re really excited about these new developments which will continue to put Equisafety on the map when it comes to being

the experts in safety equipment and accessories,” said Equisafety’s founder Nicky Fletcher.

“We are, of course, very well known for high visibility clothing and equine products but now our loyal and new followers can also buy air vests, body protectors, riding hats and helmets, stirrups and leg protection to name just a few of our new additions.”

Products are added to the Equisafety website following “selective evaluation.” The result, says the company, is “a world first providing an easy to navigate portal for all things related to equine safety.”

EQUESTRIAN TRADE NEWS OCTOBER 2022 | 5

ETN | NEWS

Retailers’ equine nutrition training launched Blue Chip Feed has launched a feed and supplement training scheme for retailers.

The online programme is designed to boost knowledge of equine nutrition and product understanding.

Training is offered remotely on an individual basis, or for groups in real time so that participants can ask questions. Pia Høyland Digernes, Blue Chip’s customer communications officer, and commercial manager Caroline Cook host the sessions.

Blue Chip says the scheme, which has bronze, silver and gold levels, is suitable for new staff members through to seasoned feed advisors.

Successful completions at each level earn participants certificates and rewards. Retailers with a high uptake receive VIP presentation boxes to display in store and advertise their teams’ proficiency to customers.

Millbry Hill in North Yorkshire was among the first retailers to take up the training. “It was an interesting way to offer training and ideal for staff to join in from other stores,” said buyer Kirsty McGoven. “The staff found it both engaging and insightful.”

Photo: Da Silva Emmanuelle/Shutterstock.com

EQUINE ‘FLU VACCINES SHORTAGES WARNING

Equestrian bodies are monitoring the potential impact of a shortage of doses of vaccines for equine influenza.

The British Equine Veterinary Association (BEVA), British Equestrian (BEF) and the British Horseracing Authority (BHA) have been aware of minor interruptions to the supply of such vaccines throughout 2022.

However, a significant, pan-European logistical problem experienced by Boehringer Ingelheim raised the prospect of a further reduction in supplies in the coming months.

Last month, BEVA was liaising with the three vaccine manufacturers (Boehringer Ingelheim, MSD Animal Health and Zoetis) to measure the shortage, minimise the threat to equine health, and prevent disruption to equestrian competition for which vaccination is compulsory.

China export opportunities unfold BETA is working with a Chinese business solutions provider to open up more trade with the country’s burgeoning equestrian sector.

Shanghai based WonderHorse and BETA made contact after both attended online webinars run last year by the Department for International Trade (DIT) and the Chinese Equestrian Association.

The new partnership gives BETA

6 | EQUESTRIAN TRADE NEWS OCTOBER 2022

Charlotte Dujardin, who is expecting her first baby early next year, is to appear at the inaugural National Equine Show.

OLYMPIC RIDERS BOOKED FOR NEW DEMOS AND SHOPPING SHOW

Dressage stars Charlotte Dujardin and Carl Hester are to appear at the new National Equine Show on 4 – 5 March, 2023 at the NEC, Birmingham.

They will be joined at the inaugural shopping-anddemonstrations event by Paralympic gold medallist Sir Lee Pearson, social media influencer This Esme, international event riders Piggy March and Alex Hua Tian, and 2019 Magnolia Cup winner Khadijah Mellah.

Organiser Raccoon Events says the show will provide “a premier retail opportunity at the beginning of the spring season, showcasing high street names and boutique brands.”

Event director Liz Ormesher added: “We have two stages at the show - the Inspiration Stage and the Equine Skills Stage - which will host our speakers over the two days.”

Other plans include two shopping villages and live equestrian fashion shows.

Early bird tickets, at £10 per day or weekend passes for £18 each, are on sale until the end of November.

member companies access to the latest developments in the Chinese equestrian market.

In addition, firms belonging to BETA can introduce their products and services to an audience of more than 800 Chinese equestrian professionals via a monthly webinar called China Horse Business LIVE. BETA members interested in taking up one of the ten remaining opportunities to

be featured on the webinar should contact the BETA office or email info@beta-uk.org BETA’s continuing partnership with WonderHorse is supported by the DIT China team within the British Embassy in China. The trade association has a long history of supporting and assisting its members in developing and expanding their businesses worldwide.

WWW.EQUESTRIANTRADENEWS.COM

whatever’s round the corner nothing works like

bonfires nothing works like

cold mornings nothing works like

dentist visit nothing works like

clipping nothing works like

fireworks nothing works like

hacking nothing works like

For more information please contact your NAF Area Sales Manager, or the NAF Sales Office on 01600 710726 or email info@naf-uk.com

naf-equine.eu/uk

fright nights nothing works like

winter weather nothing works like

vet visit nothing works like

ETN | NEWS

Too many owners are blanket dosing, says AMTRA which wants horse owners to work with RAMAs on strategic worming plans.

Calls for worming shake-up

More should be done to highlight the benefits of a strategic approach to worming, says the Animal Medicines Training Regulatory Authority (AMTRA).

In particular, the regulatory body wants horse owners to know that they can get free, specialist advice from RAMAs (registered animal medicines advisors/SQPs).

AMTRA is also considering making CPD specifically on wormer drug resistance compulsory for equine RAMAs. Growing resistance is widely seen as a threat to the future efficacy of worming drugs; hence their strategic use is vital.

AMTRA has pledged additional support for RAMAs by encouraging horse owners to use their services. RAMAs are trained to advise on parasite control, as well as in prescribing and supplying wormers.

“While there are undoubtedly increased levels of awareness, too many horse owners are approaching worming incorrectly,” says AMTRA secretary general Stephen Dawson.

“Many are blanket dosing without knowing which worms they’re targeting, whether it is even necessary to worm, or if the treatment has been effective.

“So we’re taking a closer look at the worming process, assisting RAMAs to explain more thoroughly how the process works, and encouraging better practice all round.”

Many horse owners still see worming as a one-off transaction, rather than a long-term strategy, he adds. Instead, they are to be encouraged to have a strong, ongoing relationship with RAMAs to get advice and make correct parasite control plans.

8 | EQUESTRIAN TRADE NEWS OCTOBER 2022

A number of industry bodies, including AMTRA, BETA, vets, RAMAs, charities, policy makers, retailers, and pharmaceutical manufacturers have formed a Veterinary Medicines Directorate (VMD) working group named CANTER (Controlling ANTiparasitic Resistance in Equines Responsibly).

In a meeting led by Clare Stratford, head of the efficacy team and anthelmintic policy lead at the VMD, the group met in August to begin developing a pan-industry approach to tackling the problem.

CPD change possible AMTRA is considering making it a requirement for equine RAMAs to undertake specific CPD with a focus on parasite control in the context of wormer drug (anthelmintic) resistance.

A similar requirement was introduced for farm animal RAMAs in July 2021, the beginning of the current CPD period.

“Understanding anthelmintic resistance and targeted worming practices, and how it impacts on choices in parasite control strategies, is a key part of the prescribing process,” said Stephen Dawson.

“It is therefore important that RAMAs are regularly improving and refreshing their knowledge about testing and correct treatment in order to pass this on to horse owners. We believe that compulsory CPD within the next two-year cycle may help to deliver this.”

AMTRA plans to produce a number of resources, assets and infographics on targeted and strategic worming for use online and in retail stores.

ETN publishes regular AMTRA accredited CPD features to enable RAMAs to refresh their knowledge and maintain their qualification.

WWW.EQUESTRIANTRADENEWS.COM

SUE DYSON’S APPLICATION TO REVERSE STRIKING OFF IS REFUSED Former vet Sue Dyson – who was struck off for dishonest statements and actions – has had her application to be reinstated refused.

The Disciplinary Committee of the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons (RCVS) removed Suffolk based Dr Dyson from the Register [of vets] in July 2021.

She was found to have fabricated a letter from a fictitious Home Office inspector in support of a paper she had submitted to a journal, explaining why conducting her research had not required a Home Office licence.

Dr Dyson was for many years the head of equine orthopaedics at the now closed Animal Heath Trust. She has latterly been involved with research and education, including some related to saddlery fitting.

The original decision to strike her off was made, said the RCVS in a statement last month, on the basis that her conduct was knowingly dishonest, was likely to bring the profession into disrepute and undermine public confidence in it.

Furthermore, Dr Dyson risked undermining the Government’s system designed to promote animal welfare and research ethics.

The RCVS Committee considering her restoration application found that, while Dr Dyson had demonstrated some insight into her misconduct, had expressed remorse and admitted dishonesty, this was undermined by her continuing denial that she had been knowingly dishonest in her conduct, having attributed her actions to being in a dissociative state at the time.

In terms of seriousness, the Committee said it considered that Dr Dyson’s misconduct was at the highest end of the spectrum, having involved being dishonest with multiple people on multiple occasions, and then inventing a fictitious Home Office inspector to continue the deceit.

The Committee also considered that public confidence in the profession and the RCVS as the regulator would be undermined were Dr Dyson to be allowed to be restored to the Register without genuinely accepting full responsibility for her actions.

In her favour, the Committee considered that there was no risk to the health and welfare of animals and that she had provided ample evidence of her efforts to keep up-to-date in terms of knowledge, skills and developments in practice should she be allowed to practise again.

The Committee, chaired by Judith Way, heard many positive testimonials about Dr Dyson from professional colleagues and clients.

The full details of the hearing and the Committee’s decision can be found at www.rcvs.org.uk/disciplinary

BETA WELCOMES NEW MEMBERS Two more companies have been accepted for BETA membership by the trade association’s Council.

They are: • The Stable Door Equestrian & Pet Supplies Ltd (Mobile retail membership), Herne Bay, Kent – mobile retailer • Pro-Equine Ltd (Trade membership), Marycutler, Aberdeen manufacturer of liquid supplements and skincare products using natural ingredients

WWW.EQUESTRIANTRADENEWS.COM

EQUESTRIAN TRADE NEWS OCTOBER 2022 | 9

ETN | PRODUCT NEWS

Product News Skirting the weather

This clever riding skirt from Equetech is waterproof and reversible with a fluorescent inner to boost visibility out hacking.

With a quick-release zip to the front, leg straps keep the skirt in place. There are also reflective stripes, a comfort waistband and 150gram fill for warmth.

“Purchasing a long riding coat is a considered investment for most riders,” says Liz Hayman of Equetech, “so I created a versatile garment they could team with their existing shorter style coats as and when needed.

The Equetech riding skirt comes in two sizes with an RRP of £109.95.

SHOW-STOPPING DRESSAGE DUO

Two new dressage saddles have joined the Harry Dabbs Platinum Collection.

Made in Italian calf leather, the Tierra and Revolution are single flap saddles for a close-contact.

Both incorporate Harry Dabbs’ Performance Panel which leaves a horse’s back a fraction sooner than conventional panels.

It’s designed to free the lumbar region and enable enhanced movement.

The Revolution has an angled surface block to support the rider’s thigh. There’s also a distinctive stitched flap.

The Tierra’s surface block is designed to accommodate and support riders of various leg lengths without blocking movement.

Harry Dabbs’ Platinum saddles are customisable with stitching, coloured welting or cantle coverings such as patent leather, Swarovski and croc-effect available.

RRPs for the Tierra and Revolution are from £3,046.

ONLINE TRAINING FOR BEDDING STOCKISTS

Bedmax has launched an online education portal for retail staff to extend or refresh their knowledge of equine bedding.

The Bedmax Certificate of Bedding Management and Awareness offers an in-depth look at managing stabled horses’ bedding. Participants complete the short, self-paced course in a ‘learn by doing’ method by engaging in a variety of activities.

Bedmax managing director Tim Smalley hopes the portal will help retail staff offer customers in-depth advice when choosing bedding.

“There’s a huge variety of bedding options on the market, but there’s not always much information on the difference between them, their benefits and features,” he explained.

“We worked with many industry experts to put together this education portal which offers an all-round overview so that retailers can ensure they are up to speed on what each one brings to the table so they can offer the most appropriate guidance to their customers.”

The course is split into three sections, each ending in a short quiz.

Section one covers types of bedding, how it’s made plus benefits and drawbacks for each. Section two covers health risks associated with stabling horses and how to manage them. Section three focusses on making and maintaining shavings and straw pellet beds, and exploring how Bedmax is made.

In addition, the course covers the BETA NOPS Bedding scheme. Bedmax was the first bedding company to achieve the accreditation which certifies that every stage of production is managed to minimise the risk of contamination by naturally occurring prohibited substances.

“The majority of horse owners put health and welfare top of their priority list when selecting bedding,” adds Tim, “but with the cost of living increasing, it’s more important than ever that retailers can offer customers the best and most up-to-date advice they can.

“The aim of this online portal is to offer retailers the opportunity to refresh their knowledge and maybe even learn something new too.”

Gold standard grooming

Discount still running

Dodson & Horrell’s offer of £2 off Pasture Mix is running until the end of this month (October).

Available while stocks last and with no minimum order quantity, it’s been heavily promoted to consumers.

Pasture Mix is a non-heating, oat-grain free coarse mix aimed at horses in light to medium work.

10 | EQUESTRIAN TRADE NEWS OCTOBER 2022

Carr & Day & Martin has launched a commemorative, limitededition bottle of its best-selling equine hair gloss.

Gold Canter Mane & Tail is the result of a partnership between the Irish manufacturer and Germany’s Olympic dressage gold medallist Jessica von Bredow-Werndl.

Canter Mane & Tail already sells in 72 counties, and now has the endorsement of Jessica and Team Aubi (her training base Aubenhausen).

“Carr & Day & Martin moved into Aubehausen some years ago and we all love it. Not only for the long-lasting effect but also because it makes grooming easier and the result speaks for themselves,” says Jessica.

Nicola Heyworth, Carr & Day & Martin’s commercial manager, added: “We see that Jessica, [her horse] Dalera and Team Aubi are inspiring younger and older riders with their care and passion for the health of their horses.”

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PRODUCT NEWS | ETN

Bit trade sales go online

Abbey England has a new online showcase for retailers to access supplies of bits.

The company, which manufactures bits at its Walsall foundry, previously sold bits to the trade via email and a printed catalogue.

But now Abbey England has consolidated them all into its main website.

The integration aims to make it easier for trade customers to view, find, order and reorder bits.

Abbey England offers around 3,000 bits in different styles, sizes, materials and designs, with a wide range of mouthpieces and cheeks.

Materials used are stainless steel, copper and sweet iron (cold rolled steel) sourced from the West Midlands, as well as rubber and plastics including vulcanite from Wales.

Metal components are manufactured from castings using the ‘lost wax’ technique for a fine finish. Bespoke parts can be created in the foundry’s workshops.

WALKING ON AIR Perfect to slip on after riding, the Airflow Sneaker from Mountain Horse is a super-light trainer.

With a cushioning EVA outsole and ShockX Advanced insole, they are designed for comfort.

In navy, pink and white, they have elastic laces for ease of use. The RRP is £69.

Bit tradecoordination Perfect sales go online

The Marygold and Ednam collections, from Battles’ luxury brand Coldstream, brand Coldstream, have been havecreated been created to coordinate. to coordinate.

Marygold comprises exquisite satin saddle pads, performance fly veils and deluxe performance fly veils fleece and deluxe bandages. fleece While bandages. the Ednam While features the base layers Ednam features and technical base layers riding and tights. technical riding tights.

Launched at the Royal International this summer, the Ednam base layer is notable for being made from recycled plastic bottles in a way that uses considerably less energy than traditional manufacturing.

WWW.EQUESTRIANTRADENEWS.COM

NEED A QUICK CONCRETE BASE? Installing a small concrete slab for a tank, shed or stable can involve the time-consuming, expensive task of engaging a contractor.

But you could try this ‘concrete carpet’ instead…

Easy-Slab from Deploy comes in a choice of five sizes and arrives folded up. You simply unfold it onto suitably prepared hardcore, peg it down, irrigate it – and hey-presto, you have a concrete base.

Making a mint

Dodson & Horrell’s popular treat Encouragemints are now available in a handy 750g grab pouch, 4kg treat tub and 20kg bulk bag.

The low calorie, low starch and low sugar minty treats are suitable for all horses and ponies.

Their amazing aroma hits you the moment you open the pouch, tub or bag – and is just the thing to encourage impulse buys and horses’ good behaviour.

PROTECTING HORSES FOR LIFE

Swedish insurer Agria has launched what it claims is the UK’s first policy that protects horses for life.

They say the Lifetime policy gives owners reassurance that vets’ bills can be covered year after year for recurring injuries or repetitive or chronic conditions.

Cover up to £10,000 of vet fees every year means that owners will no longer face the difficult decision of whether to “call the vet or wait and see,” says the company.

Agria adds that its insurance product keeps pace with the increasing costs of improved veterinary diagnostics and treatment.

“We understand that every horse is an individual, which is why our policies offer owners a flexible range of options that are reliable, uncomplicated and revolutionary to the UK horse world,” says Vicki Wentworth, managing director of Agria in the UK. “As it is the horse that we are insuring for the course of its lifetime, the same policy can continue upon sale of the insured horse, giving the new owner further peace of mind.”

EQUESTRIAN TRADE NEWS OCTOBER 2022 | 11

ETN | PRODUCT NEWS

MORE SIZES OFFERED

The Shadow back protector from Charles Owen is now available in an extended size range.

With RRPs from £100, the garment is certified to motorcycle back protector standard EN1621-2-2014.

The Shadow has a machine washable cover and can be worn under a show jacket

More brands listed

Horslyx, H. Bradshaws, Absorbine, Leovet, Protexin and Dodson & Horrell are among the brands now optimised and listed on Citrus-Lime’s Cloud POS platform.

Popular with independent retailers, the system fills in the product data needed to make e-commerce look slick and professional.

Cloud POS activates a listing as soon as stock is available, maximising opportunities to sell at full margin.

PUTS OTHER CLIPPERS IN THE SHADE

Looking after leather

Lincoln Superior Leather Balsam+ is new to the Lincoln Horse Care leather range from Battles.

It comes in a 250g tube which is hygienic, economical and easy to use. The balsam is available on its own or in a set with a cleansing gel and leather oil.

The formulation is an advancement on Lincoln’s original leather balsam, with enhanced oils and as a less viscous balm.

Avocado and lanolin oils are included to replenish leather’s suppleness and strength.

The balsam should be applied after a deep cleanse with Lincoln Superior Leather Cleaning Gel. Lincoln Superior Leather Balsam+ has an RRP of £10.

LONG LASTING WARMTH

The new Anky Long Coat is robust enough for riding and fashionable enough to wear out of the saddle.

Waterproof, breathable and windproof, it has warm thermal insulation and is partially lined with soft artificial sealskin.

This feminine fit coat has an adjustable, elasticated waist cord and rider-friendly two-way zip while the back of the coat opens out for riding. With plenty of pockets, there’s a detachable hood.

In dark shadow or dark navy, it styles with the Anky Pompom Beanie.

The new Lister Eclipse is heralded as probably the smallest and lightest cordless clipper of its type on the market.

Yet according to professional groom Erin Jones, it still has the power and precision to do a good job.

“The Eclipse has been so beneficial on a busy yard,” she reports, “it’s the perfect mix between a set of trimming clippers and a heavy-duty machine.

“I can’t believe how light and compact it is, and quiet too, which makes clipping fast and easy without ‘killing’ your arms.

“I’ve always liked cordless clippers because they are so safe to manoeuvre around a horse’s legs and head. But, unlike some, this one actually has plenty of charge to do a full clip and more.”

Using lithium-ion technology battery, the Lister Eclipse offers 130-minutes of power between recharges. It comes in a recyclable but sturdy cardboard box.

12 | EQUESTRIAN TRADE NEWS OCTOBER 2022

WWW.EQUESTRIANTRADENEWS.COM

Globally recognised as the forefront of innovation, technology, and protection in the equine sector.

Join the elite: Become a Premier Equine retailer.

RIDER - HORSE RUGS - HORSE BOOTS THERAPY - SADDLE PADS - GROOMING & YARD

trade.premierequine.co.uk

ETN | PEOPLE

Westgate has appointed Samantha Finlay as its new commercial sales director for the UK and Europe. She joins the supplier after 13 years with Interact Medical, which provides locums to the medical profession.

Samantha’s new role sees her managing UK and European sales for all Westgate brands, as well as being the representative for key accounts in the south-east. “While a challenging time for all in retail, Westgate has an abundance to offer the equestrian, pet and country industry – and an aggressive sales strategy to match,” she said.

A keen equestrian, Samantha works alongside group CEO, David Mitson. The group which owns Westgate is also home to Science Supplements, Mark Todd Collection, JHL and StableKit.

Jayne Cunningham from Insight Equestrian has joined the Shaws Equestrian team. Jayne, who is an independent agent, is covering northern England and Scotland.

She has special responsibilities for Tredstep boots and clothing, Myler Bits, Sabbot Headwear, Skimp Belts and Tech 1 Saddles, all of which Shaws Equestrian distributes.

“Jayne is well-known and respected in the trade for her professionalism and positivity. We are absolutely delighted to welcome her onboard,” said Monty Stuart Monteith, managing director of Shaws Equestrian.

Jayne says she’s “super excited to bring new opportunities to our retailers across the north and Scotland.”

Danielle Gautrey has joined bedding supplier Sundown Products as sales manager. She’s providing customer service and sales support to retailers as well as helping to develop new products for the pet, equine and livestock sectors.

Midlands based Sundown Products manufactures equine bedding, commercial poultry bedding and fibre pellet livestock feed.

Danielle was previously with Dengie for 16 years, initially as an area sales manager then as regional manager. “I’m excited to have joined the Sundown team,” she said. “I’m looking forward to growing the brand and product range, and getting our high-quality bedding products into more stores to facilitate Sundown’s growth.”

Lincolnshire based haynet supplier Trickle Net is supporting event rider Yasmin Ingham who with Banzai Du Loir won the individual gold medal at the world championships.

Said Trickle Net founder Ellen Chapman: “Yasmin is a wonderful ambassador because she really understands why our products make such a difference to sports horse performance.”

Yasmin, who’s based at Pewitt Stud, Cheshire, described Trickle Net as “a game changer for my greedier horses’ management.” (Photo: @definethelight)

SEIB Insurance Brokers have been working with show horse producer and television stylist Alex Osborn on a series of social media videos to promote the SEIB Winter Novice Showjumping championship and SEIB Search for a Star amateur showing series.

Alex, pictured with SEIB’s Nicolina MacKenzie presenting a prize to Nicole Pavitt at Hickstead, previously worked as celebrity coordinator for The Des O’Connor Show.

Joules has hired Jonathon Brown as its chief executive officer. A former omni channel director at John Lewis and most recently CEO at Compare the Market, he was due to begin his new job on 30 September. Joules announced an 8% drop in retail sales in August, triggering a 34% slide in its share price and a profit warning to be issued.

14 | EQUESTRIAN TRADE NEWS OCTOBER 2022

After she’s finished riding for the day, international eventer Phoebe Locke loves to kick off her boots and slip into Chatham deck shoes. “They’re perfect for around the yard and ideal for teaching – they’re practical and as well as smart,” says the rider.

Phoebe adds that she’s always keen to support a British label. “I’ve represented Great Britain six times now, so it’s lovely that Chatham are based not too far from my home in Somerset, and are also a British born brand.”

Charles Owen In the 7 September edition of the ETN newsletter, a story appeared about Ian Mitchell leaving Charles Owen.

In it, we quoted CEO Dave Derby in an extract from a personal email. This should not have happened.

We regret any difficulties caused by this.

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Photo: @definethelight

People

ETN | SOCIAL MEDIA MATTERS

24/7 365?

The world of digital and social never sleeps. People order online and email businesses at 2am, presumably in their pyjamas… But does customer service need to be 24/7 too, asks Rhea Freeman.

T

he good news is, I’m not here to suggest you answer every email or message at whatever time of the day or night it comes in. That’s not realistic or healthy.

The digital and social world has provided us with incredible connection and amazing e-commerce opportunities, but this ‘always available’ notion is hard to replicate in all areas.

You, or a member of your team, don’t always need to be there to support your customers, especially if 2am is when they like to shop. Here are a few easy, free ideas you can use to help manage customer expectations, provide a great service, and get the downtime you need:

the FAQ link. When you’re away, as in closed, use the ‘away’ message function to explain how their message will be processed and share ways that they can help themselves too.

CONTACT FORM

LIVE CHAT

PHONE NUMBER

Despite all this, you may still receive messages from people who really do expect your help at 7pm on a Friday night and are furious

by Monday morning that you haven’t responded.

Unfortunately, this will happen. All you can do is ensure that you’re putting out clear, helpful information across all your platforms that gives the vast majority of people the support they need and want from you when you and your team can’t be there in person.

On the contact form on your website, make it really clear what your office hours are and when someone is likely to receive a reply from you. Something as simple as a customer thinking you’re open on a Sunday - and therefore should respond to them, when you’re not can cause ill feeling. It’s misplaced, yes, but that doesn’t mean it isn’t real.

Again, make it clear on your website, social media and anywhere else your number is displayed when you will be answering it. You could even explain that there’s a voice message service for out of hours and people will be contacted on the next business day.

FAQ SECTION ONLINE

A frequently asked questions section on your website could be worth its weight in gold if done well. Note down the most common questions you and your team get asked and put them into a shared document so you can start to spot trends. Then write the answers to these. You might be surprised at how few questions people ask.

You can also then repurpose these questions and answers into social media content.

OUT OF OFFICE Photo: yamel photography/Shutterstock.com

Customers who like to shop online at 2am can’t expect you to respond to their queries in person. But there are other ways to keep them informed and happy.

It might just be a normal working week, but have you thought about adding an automated ‘out of office’ to your emails when you’re not open? Even better, use this opportunity to help people.

First of all, explain when you’re open, and then you could point them to your FAQ page online. You could even copy and paste that content into the email so you’re being as useful as possible.

MESSENGER AND DMS

If you use an instant messaging service on social media, like Messenger on Facebook or Instagram Direct on Instagram, look into automated and away messages. These can share key information with people looking to contact you out of hours, or even during working hours. You could explain other means of communication during work hours if the query is urgent or share 16 | EQUESTRIAN TRADE NEWS OCTOBER 2022

WHATSAPP

WhatsApp for Business provides additional options to manage customers as a standalone from Facebook or Instagram. As with other services, you can programme greetings and away messages, and when you’re back online you can label conversations, share links, share media and make video and audio calls, and even share products too.

Have you looked into free live chat services? These can be integrated into your website and pop up on the side of your site when people are browsing. If you or a team member are unavailable, a message can be taken; some also allow you to link to an additional platform that’s like a FAQ section to help customers find the answers to their questions

About the author: Rhea Freeman is an award-winning PR adviser and social media expert who is a Meta Certified Lead Trainer and accredited #SheMeansBusiness trainer. She provides one to one mentoring for brands and also runs a free Facebook group, a membership group, and produces a weekly podcast with the Small & Supercharged prefix. Find out more at www.rheafreemanpr.co.uk Rhea is also running a webinar series with BETA which includes FREE sessions for all BETA members who wish to participate and paid for sessions that are open to BETA members and non-BETA members, although BETA members enjoy preferential rates. Find out more by contacting the BETA office.

WWW.EQUESTRIANTRADENEWS.COM

BETTER BUSINESS | ETN

Staying in the black

As customers hunt for value, it’ll be a bumper Black Friday next month.

Understanding the rules means you can promote heavily without getting into hot water, say Anjali Aravindhan and Steve Sidkin.

B

lack Friday 2022 on 25 November is set to be the busiest ever. But authorities and competitors will be watching…

It’s important to ensure that advertisements promoting your Black Friday sales are clear and transparent and that your promotions will not fall foul of consumer protection law.

Here are six top tips to ensure you stay in the black and don’t end up in the red with the regulator.

2. Do not artificially inflate prices prior to a sale period simply to present a savings claim.

Although prices used as a basis for comparison should generally have been the most recent price available and should be the stated reference price for at least 12 months immediately prior to the offer, any quoted RRP should not differ significantly from the price at which the product is generally sold.

3. Do not offer products for purchase at a specific price if you do not believe that it will be possible to supply reasonable quantities at that price.

What is reasonable? The Advertising Standard Authorities (ASA) has advised that a reasonable estimate of the expected demand should be ascertained before the commencement of your Black Friday promotion and this should inform the expected supply required.

Assessing sales figures of similar previous promotions can be a helpful starting point. If during the promotion it becomes apparent the demand WWW.EQUESTRIANTRADENEWS.COM

cannot be met, be aware that there are a number of additional responsibilities that will need to be considered.

4. Set out clearly any conditions and exclusions which apply to any advertisements promoting the sale offers.

The ASA has advised that the terms and conditions of the promotion should reference the products to which they refer and should be easily identifiable by consumers.

5. Do not falsely claim that a product will only be available on particular terms or only for a limited time (eg. Black Friday only) if it will not.

Recent rulings by the ASA have indicated that the use of false countdown clocks on online websites in an attempt to elicit a purchase by customers more quickly will be treated as misleading if the time period for sale is not truly limited.

6. Do not mislead the public as to the overall presentation of the promotion.

When using “from” or “up to” to advertise a saving ensure that a

significant proportion of the sale items included in the range of products are discounted at the maximum saving and that these claims represent the true overall picture of the price promotion.

And finally, be aware if you are distance selling into the US – nearly all US states can now tax foreign online sellers!

About the author: Anjali Aravindhan and Steve Sidkin are from Fox Williams. Anjali is an associate advising on corporate matters.

Steve is a partner in the commerce and technology group and chairs Fox Williams’ Fashion Law Group. His expertise includes consumer regulatory law, supply agreements and agency and distribution law.

EQUESTRIAN TRADE NEWS OCTOBER 2022 | 17

Photo: Rawpixel.com/Shutterstock.com

1. Do not make false promotions in relation to either the price calculation of a product or the existence of a specific price advantage.

Make sure you can provide, if requested, evidence demonstrating that consumers are able to achieve a meaningful saving.

The use of reference pricing, such as ‘was’ price, can highlight the savings a consumer can make and will usually demonstrate a genuine established usual selling price and show that consumers have not been misled.

ETN | RETAILER PROFILE

Richard Vooght manages his family’s store, Hidden Oak Equine and Country, in Devon.

Great oaks from little acorns grow Richard Vooght, manager of Hidden Oak Equine and Country, in Aylesbeare, Devon, talks to Deborah Hayward about his young and thriving homegrown family business.

H

idden Oak Equine and Country was started by Richard Vooght’s parents, Greg and Fay Vooght, at their family farm in east Devon in 2021 before moving to an old former pub building earlier this year.

“They set up a shop after my two younger sisters, Honey and Nelly, got into riding,” Richard explains. “They had moved to the farm in Aylesbeare so that they had space and stables to keep ponies, and then decided to invest in a small start-up business.

“They converted one of the sheds into a store where they stocked key essentials like feed and supplements, as well as some clothing, and it really took off from there. “

STARTING TO GROW

A busy Facebook page and Fay’s involvement in the east Devon equestrian community meant that the fledging 18 | EQUESTRIAN TRADE NEWS OCTOBER 2022

business soon began to take root and flourish. It quickly gained a good following on social media and word of mouth brought local riders and country shoppers beating a path to their door.

BRANCHING OUT

A few months after throwing open their shed doors, it became clear that the business was lacking the IT systems needed to run a modern retail operation.

“There was very basic software, with no facility to maintain stock control or process orders,” says Richard. “Everything had grown so fast that things sort of crept up on them before they realised what was happening.

“They were making lots of sales but had no way of dealing with cost prices, stock and the general functionality that a retail establishment has to have. We needed to put the correct software in place, along

with the right person who was tech-savvy enough to take it to the next level.”

TAKING THE REINS

Richard, 24, turned out to be exactly who the store was looking for. “I am not horsey at all, but I have always wanted to run my own business,” he explains. “I had been working in Bristol in a role that I had grown to hate.

“So, when my parents were looking to bring in new software and technology, they suggested that I came to help for a few months while I thought what to do long-term. However, in no time at all, Hidden Oak became my full-time job.”

Richard jumped on board and, together with store assistant Jo Prew and his mum, good stock levels and several key accounts – including Shires and Battles – the business began to gather momentum.

WWW.EQUESTRIANTRADENEWS.COM

RETAILER PROFILE | ETN from 9am to 4pm, selling breakfasts, lunches and afternoon snacks.

“We have just released our new menu and we’re trying to be a bit different, with rotating specials of three or four different options that allow our chefs to stretch their creativity and have fun with different recipes and ideas,” says Richard.

things properly. Hitting people with print works, especially with newspapers, as they like to sit and read them to catch up with local news.”

LOOKING TO THE FUTURE

PRIME HORSEY LOCATION Hidden Oak Equine and Country is based in a former pub, the Halfway Inn, on the main Exeter-Sidmouth road.

GOING TO THE PUB

After about a year, the store was outgrowing its original home. The shed showroom was bursting at the seams and they had taken on four containers and additional warehousing space at a separate site just to be able to store everything.

“We knew that we had something pretty special and we could either continue at our little store or jump on it and really make a go of it,” recalls Richard. “Greg, my stepdad, is always the optimist and saw the potential, saying, ‘Let’s do it and see what we can make out of it.’”

To allow Hidden Oak Equine and Country to achieve its full potential, it moved just a short distance down the road to the Halfway Inn, an old pub building on the busy main road between Exeter and Sidmouth.

“We spent seven or eight months gutting the place, stripping it and redecorating to make it our own,” says Richard. “We put in a new kitchen, flooring and had to rewire the entire place.

“A big part of our vision was to have a café, so we created one downstairs next to the showroom and kept the rooms upstairs for storage.”

COFFEE AND CAKE

Hidden Oak’s café attracts not just the store’s customers, but also lots of nonhorsey people and passers-by. It is open

Most equestrian customers are leisure riders living within 15 miles of the store, which is perfectly positioned on a busy road with lots of passing traffic travelling through this pretty rural area.

“There are lots of livery yards around here, as well as a big common full of dog walkers and riders,” says Richard. “Bicton Arena and Bicton College are also nearby.”

DAY-TO-DAY RUNNING

Richard oversees the running of the store with help from 11 members of staff, including his mum, who nips in to help most days.

Being able to provide an expert safety garment fitting service is something that he is extremely proud of. “All our fitters have been trained by BETA,” he says. “Nobody ever leaves the shop without us making sure that a body protector or riding hat they are purchasing has been properly fitted.”

PROMOTING THE BUSINESS

Richard harnesses a powerful blend of social media, radio and print advertising to market the store. “We mainly use Facebook to create a community and highlight products,” he says, “but, as not all our customers and potential customers are on this platform, we reach out to them in different ways.

“Our radio ads, as well as those in our local mid-week Herald newspaper, which goes to 80,000 homes, are a great way to communicate with people.

“While social media is important, it is also very quick and can result in people scrolling past without even looking at

After finding a solid footing for the equestrian bricks-and-mortar sales, the business is looking to do the same for its country department. “We are planning to expand this area and stock more clothing such as casual wear and jackets for winter, as well as boots and wellies,” says Richard.

There are also big plans to develop the store’s online capability with a new e-commerce website populated with the store’s extensive product range. “Once the site is ready, we will have an entire new avenue for sales and the world will be our oyster,” says Richard.

Plans are also afoot to expand into the dog market with a wider range of canine products and a dog groomer on site.

A takeaway facility with external seating is also on the cards. “This will complement our café and sell snacks such as sausage rolls, teas, cakes and coffees,” Richard adds.

ETN asks Richard…

Q: What safety garment brands do you stock?

Mainly Charles Owen and Champion, but we are looking to expand our range.

Q: Do you offer any additional services for customers?

Yes, we deliver feed and bedding to our customers every Monday.

Q: Does the store have car parking for customers?

Yes, and we also have a feed and bedding shed so that people can park in that particular area, and a member of staff helps them load up their vehicle.

Q: How many days a week are you open?

Seven – Monday to Saturday from 9am to 6pm and Sunday from 9am to 4pm.

Q: What do you do in your leisure time?

I’m a bit of a social butterfly and enjoy meeting friends. I also go to the gym three or four times a week.

The shop offers a wide range of products for both horse and rider.

WWW.EQUESTRIANTRADENEWS.COM

EQUESTRIAN TRADE NEWS OCTOBER 2022 | 19

ETN | BENCH SADDLER

Celebrating

the best bench saddlers...

This award, presented in conjunction with the Society of Master Saddlers (SMS), recognises those who uphold the highest standard of leathercraft skills.

Kirsty Thomson at the bench. “I’m still learning eight years on,” she says.

ETN/SMS BENCH SADDLER OF THE MONTH: KIRSTY THOMSON NOMINATED BY: Master Saddler Frances Roche, who says: “Kirsty came to the Royal Mews eight years ago as an apprentice, sponsored by the Worshipful Company of Coachmakers and Coach Harness Makers.

“She’d already been a student at Capel Manor College for two years and arrived with good saddlery skills. The Coachmakers Company wanted her to learn carriage restoration too, so Kirsty was simultaneously apprenticed to Martin Oates in the carriage restoration department where she proved equally talented in fine decorative paintwork.

“I’m proud to say that Kirsty’s skills have continued to flourish, winning her many prizes in the SMS National Saddlery Competition.”

ABOUT Kirsty Thomson At school, Kirsty loved practical subjects.

“Anything that didn’t involve being stuck with pen and paper sitting behind a desk,” she recalls. So, it’s not surprising that of her three A levels - psychology, business

studies and textiles – it was the latter into which she put most time and effort.

“I could be creative. I enjoyed being given a brief and having to make something to fit in. I guess I didn’t really see it as a gift, just something I could be good at,” she says.

Weekly riding lessons from the age of six progressed to helping look after the school’s ponies. Kirsty’s hobby then prompted her to consider a horse related career.

“I didn’t like the look of many of the options,” she confesses. “Then I fell upon an article mentioning the saddlery course at Capel Manor and it grabbed my attention.”

A two-year course was followed by an apprenticeship with the Royal Mews on London. “I spent three years partly furthering my saddlery skills and partly learning carriage restoration,” she explains.

“I’ve been at the Mews for eight years now, and have recently upgraded to Master.”

Based mainly in central London, Kirsty and her colleague Catriona Coppens are sometimes required to go to Windsor Castle.

“So many different items come into our workshop, one day is never the same as the next,” she says. “The state harness is very intricate and requires a lot of patience with the stitching patterns and embellishments.

“The exercise (everyday) harness is quite plain in comparison but still requires a great deal of maintenance. We’re never short of work!

HARNESS FOR LADY LOUISE

Kirsty struggles to name her favourite thing to make because “so many pass through the workshop”, although she has a liking for laced reins.

She’s most proud of the set of harness she made as her final project for her apprenticeship. “It was the first complete matching set I’d made and it’s used by Lady Louise [Windsor] for the French pony chaise,” says Kirsty.

What Kirsty likes best about working with leather is “the endless possibilities and skills that can be learnt and combined to create items.” The worst, she says, is the making hame tugs [part of a harness].

“There are a lot of layers of leather to get through!”

Her most unusual creation was some animal doorstops - including pigs, elephants and dinosaurs.

LIFE AT THE MEWS

Kirsty is based at the Royal Mews workshop which looks after all the harness, bridles and saddles for the King’s carriage horses.

Some leather items on the carriages also require the saddlers’ attention.

20 | EQUESTRIAN TRADE NEWS OCTOBER 2022

Kirsty Thomson receiving one of her many SMS National Competition prizes from Saddlers’ Company Prime Warden James Welch

“We’re always looking for ways to make the harness and bridles more comfortable for the horses, often having to think outside the box. The work is so varied and many skills are required, I’m still learning eight years on.”

During her time in the industry, Kirsty has seen many saddlers become more willing to share knowledge and tips. “With all the social media, online groups and SMS initiatives, there’s a wealth of knowledge available at your fingertips.

“As saddlers, we’re are always looking for ways to make items for the horse more comfortable. And advances in technology and materials have definitely helped in recent years.”

When she’s not busy with work, Kirsty likes “a bit of peace and quiet” and a good book. “If I lived closer to a beach, I’d be down there most evenings,” she adds.

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ETN | OPINION

In the hot seat

With Kathryn Jaquet, managing director of Milton Keynes based retailer RB Equestrian.

Kathryn Jaquet on the shop floor at R B Equestrian. “Bricks-and-mortar retailers that run highly professional businesses where the customers come first will always be needed,” she says.

WHAT DOES YOUR JOB INVOLVE? A bit of everything. Theoretically, I should be spending my time working on strategy and big projects, but the reality is usually quite different.

Like any small business owner, day to day it’s a mixture of doing lots of things. From keeping on top of regulatory requirements to working on the shop floor, it’s all in the mix.

I’m a RAMA (registered animal medicines advisor) so I can prescribe and sell wormers. I also hat and body protector fit if we’re busy. I’m not too senior to do anything – including cleaning the loo!

WHAT DID YOU DO CAREER-WISE PREVIOUSLY? My very first job was as a Saturday girl at RB Equestrian. I then went off to university and law school, qualified as a solicitor and worked in the City for a few years.

Fundamentally though, that wasn’t for me and I came back to RB Equestrian. I’d negotiated with my parents [Ted and Rosslyn Boggis who founded the business] that I’d try it full-time for a year and if it didn’t work out, I’d get another ‘proper job’. 18 years later I’m still here - so I think it was probably the right decision.

WHAT DO YOU LIKE MOST ABOUT YOUR JOB? It’s a cliché, but it really is the people. We’ve got an amazing team at RB Equestrian and I’ve known some of our customers for 30 years. It’s genuinely interesting to find out what’s happening in their lives and we, as a team, have seen people through some very happy times and some very hard times. I love the interaction with people and developing new relationships.

22 | EQUESTRIAN TRADE NEWS OCTOBER 2022

“If it was easy being a retailer, we’d all be sitting on a beach sipping a cocktail.”

AND WHAT DO YOU HATE? Never feeling like I’ve finished… but I’m sure that’s something most business owners feel. There’s always more to do, and more you can do.

HOW CAN SUPPLIERS BEST HELP THEIR RETAIL CUSTOMERS IN THE CURRENT TIGHT FINANCIAL CLIMATE? Hold more stock. More and more products need to be ordered months in advance and it’s a real challenge – especially predicting what you might need in terms of quantities and storage and for cashflow.

It was once the case that only seasonal clothing and rugs had to be ordered in advance. But now there are increasing numbers of items that must be forward ordered.

I understand this is also difficult for suppliers, and that there have obviously been some very significant global challenges over the last couple of years. But this trend was happening before Covid hit and it does sometimes feel (although not always – there are lots of great suppliers out there) that predicting stock has become much more the responsibility of the retailer rather than the supplier.

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OPINION | ETN

WHAT DO YOU LOOK FOR WHEN TAKING ON NEW STAFF TO WORK IN STORE? Predominantly a positive attitude and someone who will fit well with the team.

I ask myself ‘do I think this person will make life at RB Equestrian easier?’ If the answer isn’t a definite ‘yes’, then regardless of experience or qualifications, they probably aren’t for us.

When we interview, we score much more on personality and attitude than we do on anything else. We look for people who like people; that’s the most important thing for our customers and our existing team..

WHAT’S BEEN YOUR PROUDEST ACHIEVEMENT IN BUSINESS SO FAR? Winning the Retailer of the Year at the BETA Business Awards.

Every award makes us proud – Tia Partington won Retail Employee of the Year this year - but it’s hard to top the first one we ever received when we really felt we were an insignificant tack shop. It gave us the confidence to carry on developing and growing.

WHAT’S THE ONE THING YOU WOULD CHANGE ABOUT THE EQUESTRIAN TRADE? Sometimes I think there can be a lack of professionalism in the equestrian industry; it’s probably the case with all retail industries.

With all of the many ways to sell now, there’s a perception that it’s quite easy to buy something and sell it for a profit.

I often wonder how many sellers are fulfilling all of their responsibilities and what happens when things go wrong? If it was easy being a retailer, we’d all be sitting on a beach somewhere sipping a cocktail instead of working long hours in our businesses.

WILL THERE STILL BE A PLACE FOR BRICKS-ANDMORTAR SADDLERY SHOPS IN TEN YEARS’ TIME? Yes. The more automated life becomes, the greater the appeal of bricks-and-mortar shops. Obviously, things have changed and will continue to change, but sometimes the draw of human interaction is what the consumer wants.

I know there will be stores that close; that would happen even if the market didn’t change. But the bricks-and-mortar retailers that run highly professional businesses where the customers come first will always be needed.

WHAT WOULD YOU SAY TO A SCHOOL-LEAVER LOOKING AT THE EQUESTRIAN TRADE AS A POTENTIAL PLACE TO WORK? Think about what you really enjoy doing and whether the equestrian trade allows you to do this. And when I say enjoy, I don’t just mean horses; I mean tap into your strengths and really work out what makes you tick.

If you enjoy making things, then you’ll probably be happier with a career in saddlery than as a groom. By identifying your skills, you can find jobs that need those skills. It’s going to lead to a happier career, which is what it’s all about.

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BETA INTERNATIONAL 2022 | ETN

BETA INTERNATIONAL 2022 REPORT

BETA International attracts ‘high quality’ visitors Everyone agreed that this year’s trade fair provided superb networking opportunities, and more. ETN reports.

B

ETA International, sponsored by Neue Schule, has proved itself yet again to be the top trade show for the UK equestrian industry, with the event providing the perfect platform for the launch of so many new and exciting products.

The event at the NAEC Stoneleigh on September 11-13 closed with visitors and exhibitors agreeing it had been a great success.

Exhibitors revealed the quality of visitors to their stands was exceptional with many praising the show for attracting key buyers and decision makers.

The mood was summed up by new exhibitor Barrus, whose chairman Tara Glen said: “We chose to exhibit at BETA International because it’s an ideal platform to showcase our brands like Town & Country and Wilkinson Sword to equestrian retailers. We’re delighted with the high quality of visitors to our stand.”

NEWCOMER

Another newcomer to the show, Agaso Equestrian, was pleased with its decision to exhibit. Owner Brenda Smith said: “A lot of interest has been shown in our products from serious buyers. I wanted to get our brand name recognised in the market and this show has helped me achieve that objective. I’ll need a bigger stand next time.”

FUTURE PLANNING

It was a similar story for Leon (Ultralight) Boots. “I didn’t know what to expect but we’ve secured new stockists and new business, so we’re very pleased we came,” said director Charlie Burgess.

Kim Bronson, owner of EquiVisor, flew in from California to exhibit at BETA International for the first time and she was delighted with her trip. “This show was recommended to me as I wanted to introduce my company’s products to the UK market and I’m so happy with the decision to be here. We’ve had a great welcome and made some important contacts.”

Emma Dyer, of Equine Careers, emphasised the importance of BETA International, saying: “I’ve been coming to this show for 11 years as it’s the only time I can guarantee to see people face to face.

It’s a chance for clients to ask questions in person.”

And Dean Cox, of Red Gorilla, commented: “As a British show for the British trade, it does the job very well.”

STRONG AND POSITIVE

Neue Schule continued with its main sponsorship of the show and CEO Sarfraz Mian said: “The industry has worked hard to emerge from some challenging times and BETA International has enabled us to look forward to a strong and positive 2023.

It has provided retailers with the opportunity to find new products that will help them elevate their business next year.”

Retailers and buyers attending BETA International agreed the event was important for their future planning.

Millbry Hill is a leading family-run equestrian and country store in the north of England. Buyer Kirsty McGovern said: “It was great to be back at BETA International and to see so many people. The stands looked fantastic, and everyone was in a great frame of mind.”

And Matt Severn, of Manor Equestrian, Nottingham, commented: “As a retailer it’s important to have BETA International. As well as being able to see what’s new all under one roof, it also allows us to network and socialise with suppliers and other retailers.”

It was a sentiment shared by Kathryn Jaquet, managing director of RB Equestrian in Milton Keynes. She said: “It’s great to catch up with suppliers and to find new products.”

NEW PRODUCTS

As well as seeing an unrivalled array of new equestrian products and speaking to top suppliers and manufacturers, visitors were also able to listen to seminars from prominent industry figures over all three days.

Exhibitors and visitors had a further chance to network, socialise and relax with a glass of bubbly after a busy first day of the show at a special drinks reception.

BETA International also paid its own respects following the death of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II with two minutes’ silence on Sunday (September 11).

Following this year’s successful show, the organisers look forward to welcoming exhibitors and visitors back to BETA International in September 2023.

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EQUESTRIAN TRADE NEWS OCTOBER 2022 | 25

ETN | BETA INTERNATIONAL 2022

BETA INTERNATIONAL 2022 REPORT

Best stands applauded BETA International is famous for the immaculate presentation of its stands. And this year was no exception.

A

wards for the Best Stands at BETA International were presented on the first day of the show (Sunday, September 11th) at the NAEC Stoneleigh.

The Best Large Stand (32sq m and over) was awarded to Perry Equestrian (stand 1-C10) and the Best Small Stand was won by Ethos (stand 2-F13).

A Highly Commended Award in the Large Stand category went to TopSpec Equine (stand 1-D6). In the Small Stand category, Highly Commended Awards were presented to Manuka Vet New Zealand (stand 2-F1) and Equidiet (stand 1-C17).

The judges – Fran Bos, Manager of Corporate Partnerships & Special Events at RDA, and Dr Diane Fisher, Chief Medical Officer of BETA – found it a difficult process with so many outstanding stands at this year’s BETA International.

The judges said of Perry Equestrian’s stand: “It is very well laid-out and we particularly liked the different coloured sections.

It has a clear and clean appearance, and the staff on the stand are very knowledgeable about their products and friendly too. The company is moving towards a more sustainable future and that comes across very well on the stand.”

In awarding TopSpec Equine a Highly Commended, the judges commented: “It is an attractive stand, which feels fresh and welcoming.

We like the fact there is space to walk around the stand.”

Fun images help to attract visitors on to the Ethos stand, said the judges. “It is very interactive and there is an easy-to-follow demonstration of how the products work. There is also a video showing where the ingredients of the products come from, and a clear message that the company is carbon neutral. The team are also wearing branded clothing to match the products, which is a good touch.”

Manuka Vet New Zealand was praised for its great imagery on its Highly Commended stand.

“Passion for the product comes through along with incredible scientific knowledge,” said the judges.

It was a similar story on the Equidiet stand where the judges were given a great welcome. “It was great to hear the story behind the company’s equine nutritional hydrotherapy product range, which is based on a personal experience, and to see a great demonstration of how it works. Visitors to the stand will feel engaged with this passionate approach.”

Left to right: TopSpec Equine, Ethos, Manuka Vet New Zealand, Equidiet and Perry Equestrian

26 | EQUESTRIAN TRADE NEWS OCTOBER 2022

WWW.EQUESTRIANTRADENEWS.COM

BETA INTERNATIONAL 2022 | ETN

Who won New Product Awards?

As ever, there was hot competition among exhibitors for the show’s cherished accolades.

T

he winners of the BETA International 2022 New Product Awards, sponsored by Equestrian Trade News, were chosen by a panel of independent retailers and retail experts, who arrived before 9.30am on the first day of the show (Sunday, September 11th) in order to make their choices from an impressive range of items.

Their decisions took into account a number of guideline criteria such as product innovation, design, quality, packaging, value for money and sustainability.

The judges agreed that the New Product Showcase had produced a high calibre of entries with a tremendous amount of innovation.

The Awards were presented to the winners at 5.15pm on Sunday

by Claire Williams, Executive Director of BETA. Here is a full list of the winners together with the judges’ comments: CONTINUED OVER THE PAGE

WWW.EQUESTRIANTRADENEWS.COM

From left to right: Monty Monteith (Shaws Equestrian), Malcolm Ainge (Shires Equestrian), Richard Dewey Clarke (Battles), Camilla Zanna (Premier Performance), Mark Peake (Goodchaps), Jamie Rudgley (Maxima), Stephen Murphy (Agrihealth), Sean Marsland (Ideal Saddles).

EQUESTRIAN TRADE NEWS OCTOBER 2022 | 27

ETN | BETA INTERNATIONAL 2022

BETA INTERNATIONAL 2022 REPORT FEED & SUPPLEMENTS WINNER

Product name: Joint Support Cookies Company name: Premier Performance

BETA INTERNATIONAL NEW PRODUCT AWARD WINNERS (SPONSORED BY EQUESTRIAN TRADE NEWS) CLOTHING & FOOTWEAR WINNER

Product name: Supreme Active Show Rider Waterproof Onesie Company name: Battles Expertly crafted, this super soft, fleece lined, waterproof children’s onesie is perfect for keeping your little one clean, dry, and warm before going into the show ring. Two full length, two way zips that run parallel to each other and split down either leg, allow for the onesie to be popped on and off in no time at all, with no need to pull over dirty boots or get your child off their pony. Featuring a hood, suede riding patch, elasticated wrist and ankle cuffs and elastic straps to the bottom of the legs.

Judges said: This product is innovative, beautifully made and easy to get on. It’s a versatile product for all weathers with a breathable fabric, and it’s also good value.

T: 01522 529206 E: orders@battles.co.uk W: www.battles.co.uk HIGHLY COMMENDED: Amalfi Leather Riding Boot, Shires Equestrian

28 | EQUESTRIAN TRADE NEWS OCTOBER 2022

Joint Support Cookies are a unique supplement, in bite-size form! Can be fed in place of a powdered supplement, perfect for horses that don’t receive a hard feed.

Contains Glucosamine, Turmeric, Chondroitin, MSM, Boswellia, Omega 3 & Vitamin C, and a combination of vitamins, minerals, and herbs of the highest quality.

Judges said: Great idea for a shortterm solution for horses that won’t take supplements.

T: 01234 419410 E: enquiries@premierperformance.uk W: premierperformance.uk

GENERAL WINNER

Product name: Christmas Advent Calendar Company name: Maxima Mix ‘N’ Munch Horse treats with 100% natural ingredients, No molasses, soya or artificial colours/ flavourings, Plastic-free fully recyclable packaging. Attractive calendar featuring the very cute Miki the mini Shetland - the Maxima Mix ‘n’ Munch mascot. Four limited edition flavours not usually available in the UK - Kiwi, Wild Fruit, Apricot-Peach and Beetroot (two treatz behind each day window) Treats are in attractive shapes and colours - not your bog-standard pellets! The RRP for these premium advent calendars is £6.99 with the trade price being £3.99, giving a 75% markup. They are VAT-free. The calendars are sold in cartons of 44 and delivery is free.

Judges said: It’s eco-friendly, recyclable and very saleable. Consumers will love the sustainable packaging and the competitive price point.

T: 01580 878123 E: haylie.rudgley@btinternet.com W: www.maximaequestrian.co.uk HIGHLY COMMENDED: Crafty Colour-In Pony, Crafty Ponies

WWW.EQUESTRIANTRADENEWS.COM

BETA INTERNATIONAL 2022 | ETN

HORSECARE

PET PRODUCT WINNER

WINNER

Product name: Power Phaser Roll-On Company name: Leovet/ Mackey Equestrian Absolute protection against mosquitoes, horseflies, flies and ticks in roll on format. Tested and approved by the Swiss Institute for Tropical Medicine: guaranteed to be absolutely effective in repelling insects for seven hours. Permanent adhesion for seven hours, even if the hair becomes wet or sweaty.

Judges said: This is a fantastic product at a good price point. It’s easy to use and very practical when out and about. It’s ideal for horses who hate spray.

T: 0800 269180 Distributed by Mackey Equestrian W: www.mackey.ie

HIGHLY COMMENDED: EcoGroom, Perry Equestrian HORSEWEAR & EQUIPMENT WINNER

Product name: Oxi Zone Training Boot Company name: Shires Equestrian Temperature regulating, fly weight boots offering a higher level of all round protection. Suitable for use in multidiscipline training. Highly breathable, offering 360° ventilation. 4D impact protection with FlexFit TPU moulded outer with directional venting for protected areas, double layer EVA foam impact buffer, compression 3D mesh body fabric encourages air flow and waffle weave lining wicks away moisture. Ventilation channels are lined with fine metal mesh to prevent penetration.

Judges said: This product offers a great look as well as good protection. It’s well designed, breathable and washable. Great value for money making it very saleable.

T: 01568 613600 E: sales@shiresequestrian.com W: www.shiresequestrian.com

WWW.EQUESTRIANTRADENEWS.COM

Product name: Tricks & Trivia Company name: Goodchap’s Judges said: We loved this product because it helps an owner bond with their pet. It’s a great gifting idea at a fantastic price.

SADDLERY & TACK WINNER

Product name: Technical & Traditional II Saddle Range Company name: Ideal & WRS Company The T&T II range has been designed to optimise panel fit for different confirmations of horse shape which enhances the already extensive options and adjustability that the T&T range has.

The T&T range is becoming a firm favourite of saddle fitters both UK and globally and is a real success story for Ideal & WRS Company ltd.

Judges said: A clever product at a good price. Excellent design for bespoke options and adjustability.

T: +44 1922 620233 E: info@idealsaddle.com W: www.idealsaddle.com SAFETY WINNER

Product name: Pikeur-ABUS Air Luxe Helmet Company name: Shaws Equestrian The helmet has a fantastic ventilation system with 17 air channels and has the PAS015 Standard and the Kitemark. It comes in 3 shell sizes, adjustable with a dial for a perfect fit between sizes 53 and 61.

Available in Black or Navy, in a wide choice of finishes.

Judges said: The safety standards on this peaked helmet are a unique selling point. It’s an excellent product with good safety features.

T: 01335 370737 E: info@shawsequestrian.com W: www.pikeur-eskadron.com

EQUESTRIAN TRADE NEWS OCTOBER 2022 | 29

ETN | CPD FEATURE ABOUT ETN’S RAMA/SQP FEATURES ETN’s series of CPD features helps RAMAs (Registered Animal Medicines Advisors/SQPs) 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 RAMAs/ SQPs specialising in equine and companion animal medicine.

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

EQUINE ASTHMA: WHAT CAN OWNERS DO?

By Kate Hore RNutr(Animal) R.Anim.Technol (Cert) head nutritionist, NAF

M

aintaining respiratory health is a year-round challenge, but certainly one we become very aware of as we head towards winter, the season of increased stabling for horses and ponies.

One of the issues we, as equine advisors, can face is sometimes confusing terminology from customers and their vets. Respiratory health seems to have more than the usual number of acronyms and descriptors, which are ever evolving. This article hopes to simplify those customer questions, and help you advise what the owner can do to maintain healthy, clear airways.

HOW BIG IS THE ISSUE?

Respiratory disease is a common, highly relevant condition in domestic horses, split into two areas.

First is the risk of infectious disease, commonly including Strangles, Equine Influenza and Equine Herpesvirus (EHV).

However, those conditions are outside the scope of this article, and here we are concentrating on the second area, that of noninfectious disease, now normally under the umbrella term of ‘Equine Asthma’ (EA).

Non-infectious respiratory disease alone is a considerable threat to equine health and performance. Studies show in the northern hemisphere, the incidence of Equine Asthma is at least 14%, a figure supported by data from British horse owners. However, that may be a conservative figure. Current research suggests nearer to 20% is likely, and sub-clinical respiratory stress is recognized in at least 80% of racehorses.

Respiratory disease is closely linked to performance, and therefore for reasons of both equine welfare and athletic performance, we should be advising good management of respiratory health to all horse owners.

WHAT IS THE PROBLEM?

The term Equine Asthma now covers all those terms we have previously known, such as Heaves, Broken Wind and COPD, and is split into two – Inflammatory Airway Disease (IAD) and Recurrent Airway Obstruction (RAO).

IAD may also be referred to as ‘mild-moderate Equine Asthma’ (mEA) and, as the name suggests, signs can be subtle, including

poor performance and occasional coughing, but the breathing will be normal at rest. IAD may affect any type or breed of horse, but is generally seen in, though not limited to, younger animals.

RAO is most usually seen in older horses, those over seven years. The signs are likely to be more severe and long lasting, and may be referred to as ‘severe Equine Asthma’ (sEA). RAO includes the sub-set of SPARAO, Summer Pasture-associated Recurrent Airway Obstruction, which most customers will describe more simply as a ‘pollen allergy’ or ‘hayfever’. The differences are shown in Table 1.

Characeteristics

IAD (mEA)

RAO incl. SPARAO (sEA)

Age at onset

Usually less than 7yrs Can be seen at any age

Usually older than 7yrs

Signs

Occasional coughing Poor performance Mucous on scoping No respiratory changes at rest At least 4 weeks duration

Regular to frequent coughing Exercise intolerance Mucous on scoping Increased respiratory effort at rest Signs and severity vary over time.

Often limits activity

Time course

Can improve spontaneously or with treatment.

Risk of recurrence low

Usually weeks to months before diagnosis No cure, but signs can be controlled

History

Exposure to stable environment Genetic link not researched

Exposure to dust or allergen in stable or pasture.

Signs may be seasonal May have genetic link

*From Couëtil et al (2016)

30 | EQUESTRIAN TRADE NEWS OCTOBER 2022

WWW.EQUESTRIANTRADENEWS.COM

CPD FEATURE | ETN

Maintaining respiratory health is a challenge when horses are stabled.

CAN NUTRITION HELP?

Looking at the diet can help the EA individual in a couple of different ways. Firstly, as horses and ponies increasingly rely on preserved forages over winter, we should recognize those as a potential source of dust and spores, and manage appropriately.

Changing to an ensiled, well-preserved haylage can help, as they typically have a lower dust burden than dry hay. If feeding hay, the practice of soaking or steaming is very useful. Take care not to oversoak, as nutrients will be leached and always ensure fresh water is used each time.

Remember, the idea of soaking or steaming is not to wash dust off the forage, but to swell the dust so that it is swallowed rather than inhaled. For this reason, it is important not to allow treated hay to dry before feeding, as the problem will return.

Secondly, targeted nutritional support can play a significant role. Traditionally, herbal support of the respiratory system is wellknown and dates back at least as far as the Great Plague of London in the 17th century. Coming up to date, bioactive components of plants are again being investigated as part of the global defence against modern respiratory pandemics such as Covid-19.

In equine health too, the role of targeted nutrition is well recognized. Supplementing the diet with targeted antioxidants has been established in horses for over 20 years.

Broad spectrum herbal antioxidants have been successfully researched, alongside straight antioxidants such as vitamin C. Unlike humans, horses can manufacture vitamin C themselves and don’t have a dietary requirement for it at maintenance. However, at times of stress, such as respiratory disease, an increased requirement is recognized.

Feed low-dust forage and supplement the diet with targeted antioxidants.

Specific herbs, such as echinacea, are advised for inclusion in the supplement. Equine specific research supports echinacea as stimulating immunocompetence, hence helping the horse’s immune system against the stresses of EA. Finally, adding a ‘glug’ of oil to horses’ diets is commonplace, particularly over winter for general health. Advising the right type of oil can also help respiratory health.

CONTINUED OVER THE PAGE

WWW.EQUESTRIANTRADENEWS.COM

EQUESTRIAN TRADE NEWS OCTOBER 2022 | 31

ETN | CPD FEATURE Research shows that an addition of Omega 3 fatty acids to the diet can also provide a benefit for the EA affected horse. However, most plant-based oils such as corn oil, rapeseed, or sunflower oil (typically cheap ‘vegetable oil’) are high in pro-inflammatory Omega 6, and provide little or no Omega 3. Instead look for an oil with a positive omega 3 contribution such as linseed, algal, or an omega 3 based blend.

MANAGEMENT TIPS

• Turn out as much as possible. Most sEA horses* will benefit from living out full time, with appropriate rugs, shelter and diet.

• Feed low dust forage, supplement the diet with targeted antioxidants.

• Mix bucket feed with an Omega 3 oil.

Many horses benefit from living out, with appropriate rugs, shelter and diet.

• Feed from the floor to aid natural drainage.

• Choose low-dust bedding and ensure good ventilation in stables.

Selected References** • Ensure horses are not in the stable when mucking out, and allow • Couëtil L et al. Equine Asthma: Current Understanding and particles to settle before they return.

Future Directions. Frontiers in Veterinary Science. 2020, 30 July.

• Monitor riding arenas; take care with, dust, silica and number of • Hotchkiss JW, Reid SW, Christley RM. A survey of horse owners horses using the school concurrently. in Great Britain regarding horses in their care. Part 2: Risk Finally let’s not forget the respiratory health of horse owners factors for recurrent airway obstruction. Equine Vet J. 2007 themselves. Research shows that those caring for horses are at Jul;39(4):301-8. increased risk from respiratory disease. In the last couple of years, • Kirschivink N. et al Effect of nutritional supplementation on we’ve all become used to wearing a face mask, and using one while systemic and pulmonary antioxidant status, airway inflammation mucking out would be advised. and lung function in heaves –affected horses. Equine Veterinary Journal. 2002. 34,7. 705-12 *SPARAO horses may be better housed during the day at peak times, spring and summer.

**Contact NAF if full list of references is required.

RAMA CPD QUIZ SELECT YOUR ANSWERS AND SUBMIT THEM AT WWW. EQUESTRIANTRADENEWS.COM UNDER THE CPD SECTION 1. Which of these does not come under the term Equine Asthma? a.

RAO b.

EHV c.

IAD d.

SPARAO 2. How many racehorses are shown to have sub-clinical respiratory disease? At least:a.

14% b.

20% c.

50% d.

80% 3. What does RAO stand for?

Recurrent Abnormal Oedma a. b.

Restricted Airway Oxygen c.

Recurrent Airway Obstruction d.

Resting Airway Oscillation

4. If an owner reported having a 4yr old Arab gelding with an occasional cough, what would be the most likely veterinary diagnosis? a.

RAO b. sEA c.

IAD d.

SPARAO 5. Which of the following practices can be advised for reducing dust spores in dry forage? a.

A short soak in clean water b.

Steaming c.

Changing to well-made haylage d.

All of the above 6. Which vitamin, not usually required by horses, is recognized at times of physiological stress?

Vitamin A a. b.

Vitamin C c.

Vitamin D d.

Vitamin K

7. Which herb has proven efficacy for equine immunity? a.

Echinacea b.

Mint c.

Boswellia d.

Turmeric

RAMA CP Questio D n (nutritio s n ) Octobe r 2022 ETN

8. Which of these is a good source of omega 3 fatty acids? a.

Corn oil b.

Linseed oil c.

Sunflower oil d.

Rapeseed oil 9. Which of these might you advise for owners of EA horses? a.

Feed from the floor b.

Turnout as much as possible c.

Use low-dust bedding and forage d.

All of the above 10. Do you think horse owners could also be at risk of respiratory stress? a.

Yes, advise wearing a face mask when mucking out b.

No, the activity is mainly outdoors, so no concerns No, I don’t believe it’s been c. investigated d.

Not sure

SUBMIT YOUR ANSWERS ONLINE AT WWW.EQUESTRIANTRADENEWS.COM UNDER THE CPD SECTION.

32 | EQUESTRIAN TRADE NEWS OCTOBER 2022

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ETN | SUPPLEMENTS AND BALANCERS

Putting science into practice It takes a combination of art and science to feed horses well. While scientific research continues to improve our knowledge of equine feed and management, the results can be difficult for owners to interpret.

Sarah Nelson explains what some of this valuable science means when it comes to the practical, ‘real world’ feeding of horses.

Jargon busting • Water soluble carbohydrate (WSC): mainly simple sugars such as sucrose + fructan, the ‘storage form’ of sugar in the majority of UK grasses.

• Non-structural carbohydrate (NSC): starch + WSC • Insulin: a hormone produced by the pancreas. The release of insulin signals cells, largely in muscle and liver tissue to absorb glucose (sugar) from the blood • Insulin dysregulation (ID): a term that includes a high basal or ‘resting’ insulin (in the blood), an exaggerated insulin response to consuming starch and/ or sugar and tissue insulin resistance (a failure of cells to respond to insulin)

Eating from a double-layered, small holed haylage can significantly increase eating time compared with eating from a standard haynet.

Photos: Jon Stroud

HOW MUCH FORAGE DO HORSES NEED?

Although ad lib forage (as much as the horse/ pony will eat) is the ideal, it’s not always appropriate for good doers, with some level of restriction often required.

In 2016, European nutritionists, researchers and vets published recommendations on feeding conserved forage, eg. hay and haylage, based on 20 years’ research. They agreed that for most horses, total daily forage intake should not be restricted to less than 1.5% of bodyweight on a dry matter basis (7.5kg for a 500kg horse).

Although a common point of confusion, the emphasis on ‘dry matter’ is important, particularly for horses on restricted rations.

34 | EQUESTRIAN TRADE NEWS OCTOBER 2022

All forage, even dry hay, contains some water (around 10-15% for hay and 20-50% for haylage) which doesn’t count towards to the horse’s forage intake.

To compensate for the water content, total forage intake for a 500kg horse without access to grazing should not be restricted to less than 9kg of hay (if fed dry – more on this later) or 11-14kg of haylage on an ‘as fed’ basis (the amount owners weigh out).

HOW LONG SHOULD OWNERS SOAKING HAY TO REDUCE THE ‘SUGAR’ CONTENT? The answer is not set in stone and often comprises conflicting advice. Research has shown the length of soak and water

WWW.EQUESTRIANTRADENEWS.COM

SUPPLEMENTS AND BALANCERS | ETN temperature influences WSC losses, but results are highly variable.

Soaking results in some loss of vitamins, minerals and soluble protein and a significant loss of dry matter, which means each haynet will contain less ‘hay’ and more water post-soaking. Soaking also increases microbial contamination although the potential impact of this on health is still not fully understood.

PRACTICAL TIPS • Soak for 1-3 hours in warm weather and 6-12 hours in cold weather.

• Soaking does not guarantee suitability for laminitics – ideally owners should choose a low NSC hay (<10-12%).

• If soaking for 1 hour or more, owners should increase the amount of hay they soak by approximately 20% (unless they are feeding ad lib) – this will help to ensure total forage intake is not restricted too severely.

SOAKING VS STEAMING HAY

A number of studies have shown steaming is by far the superior option for improving hygienic quality, reducing the number of respirable particles (those small enough to inhale) and microbial contamination. But it’s not very effective at reducing WSC. Although less practical for many owners, soaking followed by steaming achieves the best of both worlds for those trying to reduce the ‘sugar’ content and improve hygienic quality. However homemade steamers may act as an incubator for bacteria!

DO GRAZING MUZZLES REALLY WORK?

Grazing muzzles have been shown to reduce grass intake by an average of 80%, regardless of the season. In practice, this means they can be used in winter months too, provided the grass is long enough to be accessed through the base of the muzzle.

However, research has also shown that wearing a muzzle for only part of the day may lead to compensatory eating - so owners

Wearing a muzzle for only part of the day may lead to compensatory eating.

should consider stabling or non-grass turnout for the remainder of the day. A nutritionist can offer further advice on using a grazing muzzle safely.

STARCH AND SUGAR INTAKE FOR LAMINITICS

Recommendations to restrict NSC or ‘starch and sugar’ intake in laminitics to less than 10% of the total diet stem from research into forage and polysaccharide storage myopathy (PSSM: a form of tying up). However, in practice, many laminitics are managed successfully on diets that include feeds (and forage) containing more than 10% NSC. It’s also important to remember the amount of starch and sugar consumed from any feed will depend on how much of it is eaten.

For example: • 2kg of feed with a combined starch and sugar content of 9% contains 180g of starch and sugar • 1kg of feed with a combined starch and sugar content of 18% also contains 180g of starch and sugar When it comes to choosing ‘bucket feed’, restricting NSC intake to less than 0.5g per kilogram bodyweight per meal (<250g per meal for a 500kg horse) may be a more appropriate guide, although greater restriction for severely insulin dysregulated horses and ponies is advised.

GASTRIC ULCERS

Gastric ulcers can affect up to 90% of racehorses, 60% of competition horses and up to 50% of leisure horses. Research has identified several nutritional risk factors for non-glandular ulcers including feeding straw as the sole forage supply, high starch and sugar intakes (per day and per meal) and periods of more than 6 hours without access to forage.

On the flip side, recent research has proven that appropriate changes in feed can reduce the occurrence of non-glandular ulcers following veterinary treatment; while gastric ulcer scores for horses treated with omeprazole only (no change in diet), were no better overall, than pre-treatment scores 6 weeks after treatment had stopped.

Another study showed that replacing 30% of the horse’s total daily forage ration with straw did not increase the risk of gastric ulcers.

PRACTICAL TIPS • Advise customers to base as much of their horse’s diet on forage as possible – balancers are the ideal solution for horses that maintain weight easily on forage alone.

• If additional energy (calories) is required, recommend fibre-based feeds that are low in starch and sugar. Feeds high in oil are a great alternative to traditional cereal-based products – oil is approximately 2.5 times higher in energy compared to cereals, but starch and sugar free.

• Owners should aim to feed less than 1g of NSC per kilogram of bodyweight per meal (<500g per meal for a 500kg horse) and ideally less than 1g of NSC per kilogram of bodyweight per day.

• If their horse is prone to weight gain, suggest owners try feeding soaked hay or feed straw as a partial forage replacer – this may mean that total forage intake does not need to be restricted so significantly.

• Feeding 6kg of hay in a double-layered, small holed haylage net has been shown to significantly increase eating time vs feeding the same amount of hay in a single small holed net.

• Feeding short chopped fibre or forage prior to exercise helps to prevent gastric splashing – the current recommendation for short chopped fibre is 30 minutes prior to exercise.

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EQUESTRIAN TRADE NEWS OCTOBER 2022 | 35

ETN | SUPPLEMENTS AND BALANCERS

Fed with a mineral and vitamin supplement or balancer, short chop fibre can replace compound feeds.

DOES FEED FEEDING CHAFF REALLY HELP TO SLOW EATING TIME?

To put this common feeding practice to the test, researchers fed oats on their own and oats in addition to varying amounts of straw chaff in a random order. Regardless of chop length (approx.

1.5cm and 4cm), adding 15% chaff eg. 300g of chaff to 1.5kg oats, significantly increased eating time.

As you might expect, horses ate more slowly when greater amounts of chaff were added, although the effect plateaued at 50%. This is important because rapid intake of meals may lead to insufficient chewing, reduced saliva production and food passing through the digestive system too quickly which, in turn, may lead to conditions such as choke and colic.

PRACTICAL TIPS • Encourage owners to feed short, chopped fibre or ‘chaff’ alongside compound feeds (mixes and cubes).

• If fortified with vitamins and minerals or fed alongside a balancer, short fibres can be used as a replacement for compound feed.

• Recommend low calorie options for good doers and high oil, alfalfa-based fibres for those in need of calories.

• Having evolved to spend 16-18 hours per day foraging, horses have a psychological need to chew which means feeding short chopped fibre may be of added benefit to horses on restricted rations of forage.

CHANGES IN DIET AND COLIC – WHAT ARE THE ODDS? The risk of colic has been seen to be approximately 2.5 times higher following a recent (previous 2 weeks) change in feed and around 2 times higher following multiple feed changes in the last year.

36 | EQUESTRIAN TRADE NEWS OCTOBER 2022

However, sudden or recent changes in ‘bucket feed’ are not the only risk - a change of hay within the previous 2-week period was found to make horses almost 5 times more likely to suffer from colic in one study and almost 10 times in another.

Switching from 24/7 grass turnout to stabling and feeding dry hay often results in drier faeces and a reduction in intestinal contractions (which are responsible for moving feed and forage through the gut), despite increased water intake.

The risk of colic has been seen to be approximately 2.5 times higher following a recent change in feed

PRACTICAL TIPS Encourage owners to • Replace up to 500g of current feed for 500g of new feed every other day for horses, less for ponies eg. up 300g every other day for a 300kg pony • Ideally make changes in forage over a minimum of 3 weeks.

• Make changes in management gradually.

About the author: Sarah Nelson is a nutritionist from Spillers.

WWW.EQUESTRIANTRADENEWS.COM

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ETN | SUPPLEMENTS AND BALANCERS

Emma Nissler: encourage your staff to use feed manufacturers’ helplines.

Knowledge is power Supporting your staff is a sure-fire way to increase sales, says Emma Nissler.

I

n feed retailers across the UK, there are thousands of knowledgeable people working hard to support their customers.

However, with so many feeds, balancers and supplements now in the marketplace, it’s becoming increasingly important to keep your retail team’s expertise up-to-date.

Doing so will improve their sales ability – and therefore the profitability of your business.

Here’s how you can help your staff to help your customers.

USE HELPLINES

Many manufacturers have nutritional helplines available to support anyone with a feeding query.

Encourage staff to use them to answer any queries they might have, ensure their product knowledge is accurate and gain a better overall understanding of the products they’re selling.

Helplines are also a quick and efficient way of getting the most accurate answer to a customer’s question in store. These could include finding suitable alternatives, seeking product comparisons, wanting a more cost-effective feeding plan or simply gaining a 38 | EQUESTRIAN TRADE NEWS OCTOBER 2022

better understanding of the products.

For more in-depth discussions, members of staff can pass on the helpline contact details for the consumer to use the service in their own time.

Comparing products between feed companies can sometimes be difficult, and there may not always be a direct alternative.

Nutritional advisors on helplines can provide an informed answer and give clarity when comparing multiple products.

Furthermore, helplines can provide cost effective solutions, doing the maths to calculate cost per day or per month without compromising on nutrition. Their specialist knowledge is there to be used.

TALK TO YOUR REPS

Sales representatives from feed manufacturers are a fantastic resource to support you and your staff in selling their products.

Many sales representatives provide interactive training in store. These sessions allow staff to broaden their understanding of products, refine their knowledge and ask questions of a professional face-to-face.

WWW.EQUESTRIANTRADENEWS.COM

SUPPLEMENTS AND BALANCERS | ETN Your sales representative may also offer seasonal marketing or promotional support. Point of sale (PoS) items such as posters, brochures, samples and displays all drive sales.

involving your staff in this process improves their awareness and gives them some further responsibility which can boost job satisfaction.

BOOST THEIR CPD

DIGITAL SHARING

Continuing professional development (CPD) is a great way for staff to gain more in-depth knowledge in key areas of nutrition. If team members attend seminars or courses, ask them to present what they have learned to other staff on their return. It’s good to encourage knowledge sharing.

There’s a variety of short courses online – and regular AMTRA accredited CPD features in ETN - giving retailers a range of options.

Developing your workforce’s skills and knowledge not only improves customer interactions and sales, it boosts their own enthusiasm and motivation for their work while promoting mental wellness.

STAY WELL STOCKED

Stock control is another way in which retailers can support their staff. Sales forecasting and ordering appropriate volumes of feed ensures adequate stock is available for them to sell, minimising the challenge of having to tell customers: “Sorry, we’re out of stock”.

Good stock control also helps avoid oversupply and minimises short-dated or out-of-date product issues. Stock rotation is imperative so bags at the back of the shelf don’t creep up to their best-before dates.

All of the above scenarios can lead to difficult interactions with customers. So minimising these situations through effective sales forecasting and ordering can be a huge support in helping staff do their jobs well.

Effective stock management allows time to push sales on a product through a promotion or product display, too. Again,

Allowing a member of staff to work on digital channels and activations is a great way of sharing nominated brands with your customers.

It enables team members to hand-pick relevant product information and updates and bring them to your own business pages; for example, content for your website, a blog, your social media pages or a customer newsletter.

FRESH AND REFRESH

Keep your website and in store product displays up-to-date. Use current information from your suppliers including the latest logos, product shots, imagery and technical information.

It’s the best way to arm both your sales team and your customers in store as they can easily match promotions and adverts they’ve seen externally to products on the shelf or online.

Imagery is vital to e-commerce. It often sells more than a product description or even a testimonial - so use as high-quality images as your site can accommodate.

In conclusion, supporting your retail staff empowers them to do their jobs to a higher standard. This, in turn, boosts business profitability along with morale and motivation. Always remember, your feed manufacturers are there to support you and your staff in person, on the phone, virtually or via email.

About the author: Emma Nissler is a nutritional advisor from Dodson & Horrell.

Helping you, to help more horses Cost effective targeted formulations Completely balanced rations No fillers or weird and wonderful protein sources Traditional ingredients Family run British based, for over 35 years Efficient nutrition

NE W W STO AN C TE KIS D TS

Contact us for a friendly chat and to find out about stocking Balanced products ready for winter.

0800 1975200 enquiries@balancedhorsefeeds.co.uk balancedhorsefeeds.co.uk Balanced Horse Feeds, Byhurst Farm, Leatherhead Road, Surrey KT9 2NL

ETN | SUPPLEMENTS AND BALANCERS

Above and beyond Supplements and balancers supply many benefits to horses and good margins to retailers. What should you be stocking this winter?

For flexible feeding

NEWCOMER JOINS THE RANGE

New SPILLERS Ulca Balancer is BETA EGUS approved, giving owners an option for horses prone to gastric ulcers.

The multi-vitamin and mineral balancer offers added gastric and digestive support and contains pre and pro biotics to support gut health plus pectin, lecithin, FOS and calcium for gastric support.

Also in SPILLERS’ range are Daily Balancer containing 15mg of biotin per 500g serving for hoof health. With an appetising mint and rosemary aroma, it provides vitamins and minerals to balance forage only diets.

SPILLERS Original Balancer is an enhanced multi-vitamin and mineral balancer with added digestive, hoof and immune support.

It’s ideal for balancing a forage only diet and supplies the essential amino acid lysine to support muscle and topline. It also offers pre and probiotics, 15mg of biotin per 500g serving and a high level of vitamin E alongside added vitamin C to support immune health.

SPILLERS Lite & Lean Balancer is now even lower in sugar and starch and high in the essential amino acid lysine to support muscle and topline. It’s designed to balance a weight loss diet, contains cinnamon and FOS to help support a healthy metabolism and is suitable for those prone to laminitis.

SPILLERS Supple & Senior Balancer isn’t just for seniors. The multi-vitamin and mineral balancer has added omega 3 alongside 7.5g of glucosamine and 10g of MSM per 500g serving, making it ideal for any horses needing joint support. It also supplies antioxidants including vitamin C and a high level of vitamin E, plus pro and prebiotics.

SPILLERS Gro N’ Win Balancer has a nutrient rich formula for broodmares, foals, youngstock and stallions that do not require the high level of calories provided by traditional stud feeds. It’s rich in essential amino acids to support growth and muscle development and includes probiotic live yeast.

More muscular

TopSpec Comprehensive Feed Balancer is a flexible, nutrient-rich feed designed to balance the rations of most horses and ponies simply by adjusting the rate at which it’s fed and the products with which it’s fed.

It contains several supplements combined with good quality protein to promote muscle development, function and topline.

A broad-spectrum supplement is backed up by a superb hoof supplement, generous levels of anti-oxidants and sophisticated digestive aids.

TopSpec Comprehensive Feed Balancer is a palatable nonheating pelleted feed formulated without cereal grains. It’s low in sugar and starch too.

The superb specification allows horses to use more nutrients from forage and straights, which usually means hard feed intake can be reduced with many resulting benefits.

WINTER SUPPORT

TurmerAid from The Golden Paste Company is a turmeric supplement which supports healthy joints, aids digestion and promotes a healthy skin and coat.

Carefully formulated with key ingredients for maximum absorption and bio-availability, the pellets contain a minimum 5.1% curcumin, yucca, black pepper, linseed and apple cider vinegar.

TurmerAid is instantly recognisable in its bright orange, recyclable tub. It’s ideal for use over the winter when many horses and ponies require additional support during the cold and damp weather.

The pelleted presentation ensures ingredients are evenly distributed and only released when the horse bites into them.

TurmerAid is highly palatable and can be fed by hand or added to bucket feeds.

The RRP for a 2kg tub is £23.20.

A 15kg sack is also available, RRP £138.56.

Science Supplements has launched MuscleAid, a comprehensive muscular support for horses prone to soreness, fatigue or slow recovery.

The product took three years to develop and has undergone two clinical trials.

MuscleAid contains a blend of natural antioxidants (vitamin E and selenium) to support muscle cell integrity and reduce free radical damage.

40 | EQUESTRIAN TRADE NEWS OCTOBER 2022

It also contains a combination of Astaxanthin, L-Carnitine and HMB, which have been scientifically proven to work together to reduce the incidence of exercise induced muscle damage and soreness, and to accelerate recovery, says Science Supplements.

The brand’s CEO, David Mitson, adds that MuscleAid is the first of several new equine supplements Science Supplements intends to launch over the next 12 months.

WWW.EQUESTRIANTRADENEWS.COM

SUPPLEMENTS AND BALANCERS | ETN

BALANCERS JOIN GASTRIC SOOTHER RANGE

H Bradshaws, which introduced the gastric soother Coligone in 2005, has added four new balancers to its range.

The nutrient dense products are suitable for all horses and ponies, and each includes Coligone to help maintain gastric health.

The balancers also support overall muscle development, immunity, hoof, skin and coat quality and temperament, while offering vitamins, minerals and micronutrients to meet the horse’s daily needs.

Coligone Balancer is an all-round feed. Low in starch, sugar and calories, it’s ideal for the overweight and laminitis prone, plus those with metabolic conditions.

Coligone Race Balancer is for horses in training to support optimum health, performance and recovery. This palatable feed is fed in small quantities, making it perfect for racehorses that are fussy feeders.

Coligone Stud Balancer supports the needs of stallions, youngstock, mares and foals. The pellets feature highly digestible fibres, and are low in sugar and starch, with zero cereal.

Magical Pegasus Dust Balancer is a fun addition to the range aimed at the younger market. It provides highly digestible fibres alongside Coligone, an omega complex, balanced vitamins and minerals, and amino acids. As it delivers all the horse’s daily requirements, it can be fed with just forage.

Also new from H Bradshaws are two supplements with Coligone.

ColiFLEX is a gastro/joint care supplement suitable for all equines but useful for older and hard-working horses.

ColiHOOF helps ensure maximum nutrition for horses’ hooves through improved digestive function. It contains 50% Coligone plus hoof supplement ingredients.

Balancing act

The idea behind Dengie balancers is that fibre feeds, such as those in the Dengie Alfa-A and Hi-Fi ranges, provide most of the energy and protein a horse needs.

The balancers then top up any essential nutrients that may be lacking.

Dengie balancers have a high specification of vitamins and minerals, plus linseed - an excellent source of omega-3 essential fatty acids.

The herbs rosemary and thyme are included for their antioxidant properties and high palatability. Trace minerals copper, zinc and manganese are chelated for maximum absorption.

Dengie Performance+ Balancer is formulated for horses with increased nutritional requirements, such as performance horses, breeding, youngstock or veterans. It contains glucosamine for joints, FOS prebiotic for gut health, B vitamins for energy breakdown and use, plus biotin for hoof growth and health.

Dengie balancers are suitable for a wide range of horses and ponies including those prone to laminitis.

Provided the balancer is fed at the correct level, 100g per 100kg body weight, the amount of Alfa-A or Hi-Fi can be adjusted according to the horse’s workload and body condition.

This gives owners the flexibility to adjust the ration without worrying their horses are missing out on vitamins and minerals.

Good value in the bag

Despite potential for customers’ concerns about the initial cost of a bag, Baileys says its balancers remain a cost-effective way to maintain a horse on a balanced diet - with all the health and well-being benefits that brings.

Baileys Lo-Cal balancer ensures the good-doer or laminitisprone receives a good diet. Simple to use, alongside forage as part of a calorie-controlled diet, it contains a full spectrum of vitamins and minerals, including chelates and important antioxidants.

Lo-Cal also contains all the nutrients essential for healthy hoof growth, including biotin, methionine, zinc and calcium, plus other essential amino acids to promote muscle tone and tissue integrity.

Competitions, not calories Baileys Performance Balancer ensures that working and competing horses, who don’t need the calories provided by recommended quantities of competition feeds, can receive optimum nutrition without adding to their waistlines.

It contains performance levels of vitamins and minerals, including bioavailable organic selenium, as well as protected probiotic yeast and Digest Plus prebiotic.

Baileys Lo-Cal and Performance Balancer are low in starch and accredited by BETA as suitable for horses prone to gastric ulcers.

WHEN PEAK PERFORMANCE COUNTS Cavalor Peak Performance is a balanced blend of essential oils and herbal extracts that support the horse’s alertness, performance and recovery times.

The natural ingredients act in an innovative way to improve general condition and stamina, making it ideal for high performance horses.

Cavalor points out that it’s important to ensure hard-working horses take in energy corresponding to their needs; but no more than necessary.

Cavalor Peak Performance has an RRP of £145.50 for 500ml. The brand is distributed in the UK by Zebra Products.

Stressed out?

e-Calm from Nettex provides a once-a-day, effective, natural calmer to aid stress management in horses.

It’s ideal for situations such as travelling, clipping, competing or for general anxiety. e-Calm is a non-magnesium calmer made from fermented wheatgerm. It has a prebiotic like function that influences the microbiome which supports wellbeing. e-Calm also supports gut functionality and the maintenance of healthy skin and coat. It’s effectiveness as a calmer has proven results in recent trials.

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EQUESTRIAN TRADE NEWS OCTOBER 2022 | 41

ETN | SUPPLEMENTS AND BALANCERS

COST-EFFECTIVE ALL-ROUNDER

TopSpec All-in-One is a multi-supplement containing optimum levels of all the commonly needed supplements expertly balanced into one product.

It’s suitable for all horses and ponies, whether competing or in light work, and can be fed to every horse or pony on any yard.

It’s highly cost-effective too. TopSpec All-in-One has such a high specification, it can be fed to good-doers with no nutritionally-related problems at half the recommended rate.

The caramel flavoured, granular product contains a broad-spectrum supplement plus many others such as a hoof supplement, generous levels of anti-oxidants and digestive aids.

Perform and grow

Blue Chip Pro Feed Balancer is designed for performance horses and growing youngstock.

It contains elevated levels of vitamins, minerals and nutrients for additional daily support, plus soya and linseed oils, coupled with organic zinc to support healthy skin.

There’s also a digestive supplement with pre and probiotics.

ONE SCOOP A DAY

BETTALIFE PharmaPRO Total Equine Support is an all-in-one formula containing the brand’s PharmaQuin Joint Complete HA, PharmaTRAC Total Digestive Support and PharmaPlast Ultimate Topline.

This product provides optimum levels of 35 ingredients to support horse’s joints, digestive system and topline development.

Fed at just one scoop per day, the non-heating, palatable formula is a great time-saver for owners.

As with all BETTALIFE products, it comes with a no quibble, 100% money back guarantee. 1kg has a stockist price of £55, RRP £75.

Get set for winter

Check your stocks of these well proven products ahead of colder, damp weather and horses being stabled for the winter…

NAF Five Star Superflex offers a scientifically balanced ratio of the key joint nutrients glucosamine sulphate, MSM, chondroitin sulphate and hyaluronic acid (HA).

This unique formulation offers a synergistic blend with naturally sourced antioxidants to support healthy, flexible joints. RRPs are from £24.15 for 400g, and it’s available in liquid or powder.

Five Star Superflex Senior provides NAF’s highest specification of the key joint support nutrients for horses, working in synergy with Omega 3 fatty acids and naturally sourced antioxidants.

Designed to support healthy, flexible joints in older horses and ponies still leading active lives, RRPs are from £32.55 for 660g.

42 | EQUESTRIAN TRADE NEWS OCTOBER 2022

Concentrated vits and mins

Dodson & Horrell Ultimate Balancer is a low-calorie, concentrated source of vitamins and minerals with additional digestive, hoof, recovery and immune support.

Also offering protein, it ensures horses and ponies have all the nutrients they need.

Ideal for topping up vitamin levels in forage and providing essential amino acids for overall health, it’s suitable for all horses and ponies.

The RRP is £42.30 for 20kg.

SUPPORT IN A TUB

V.I.P. In the Balance from Nettex is a complementary feed offering all round support.

It contains a comprehensive package of trace elements, vitamins and minerals designed to support the nutritional balance of either a high fibre, low concentrate diet or a high-performance diet, to deliver optimum health and vitality.

Highly palatable, with no added sugar, the alfalfa free formula contains a probiotic yeast, proven to improve fibre digestion in horses.

Cost-effective and complete

Saracen Horse Feeds Essential Balancer is a cost-effective (RRP £35.50 for 20kg), low intake, complete feed balancer for equines of all ages and activity levels who do not require any additional calories.

The low sugar, low starch, non-heating balancer can be fed alongside a forage only diet to provide a balanced ration.

It contains a full spectrum of vitamins, minerals and antioxidants to support immune function, general health and wellbeing, plus a live yeast and healthy hoof package.

Five Star Respirator Boost provides nutritional support to the respiratory mucosal immune system and the delicate capillary blood vessels that surround the lungs.

Respirator contains a concentrated solution of natural anti-oxidants, alongside herbs such as ginger, rosehip and blueberries, chosen for their support of healthy lung function. Echinacea is included for immune system support. The RRP is from £21 for 500ml.

GastriAid provides targeted gut support for happy, healthy guts.

It commences its journey with saliva support, before caring for the integrity of the stomach. GastriAid then activates gut sponge properties to help buffer acid build-up. On leaving the stomach, it supports the health of the small intestine which has a direct benefit to nutrient uptake.

GastriAid also nourishes the hindgut, live cultures offering recolonisation to underpin the vital equine fibre fermentation process. RRPs are from £34.75 for 1.8kg WWW.EQUESTRIANTRADENEWS.COM

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EQUESTRIAN TRADE NEWS OCTOBER 2022 | 45

ETN REPORTING | ETN

TURNING BACK THE PAGES…

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

In October 2017, ETN reported:

l I’Anson Brothers, the company behind British Horse Feeds, purchased 75% of The Golden Paste Company (GPCo). Janine Kell, founder of the turmeric supplements specialist, was to continue as managing director of GPCo. l David Haythornthwaite, chairman of Tangerine Group which owned Carr & Day & FIVE Martin, spoke out about the YEARS trade’s supply chains. “We’re AGO... concerned that the traditional role of the wholesaler, whose sole focus ought to be that of providing a logistical service, has rapidly become one of distributor,” he told ETN. l HRH The Duke of Kent officially opened a 100,000 sq ft warehouse for stable hardware supplier A Perry & Co. The duke unveiled a plaque to mark a £4 million investment by the family-owned, West Midlands based company. l Aztec Diamond launched a saddle cloth with press studs to fasten the straps.

In October 2002, ETN reported:

20 YEARS AGO...

l West Country based retail group Mole Valley Farmers acquired SCATS’ country store business. The deal enabled Mole Valley Farmers to expand in southern England with 29 outlets from Kent to Cornwall. l Badminton Horse Trials was offering sponsorship opportunities ahead of its 2003 running. The event had only ever had two main sponsors – Whitbread and Mitsubishi – in its 52-year history. l Horse of the Year Show (HOYS) traders were not entirely happy about the fixture’s move to the NEC Arena. Getting out of the lorry park after packing up his stand was “like the Wacky Races,” according to Adrian Charley of Townfields Saddlery. He also felt the new venue was too costly, making it difficult for trade stands to be profitable. l Robinsons was counting the cost of a fire which had destroyed its Lancashire store. The company quickly printed and distributed 20,000 leaflets to tell customers its mail order operation was still functioning; while local warehouse space was procured to enable feed to be stocked.

46 | EQUESTRIAN TRADE NEWS OCTOBER 2022

In October 2012, ETN reported:

l John McGowan, the founder of Aerborn and one of the trade’s great innovators, died aged 67. John invented the original cotton mesh anti-sweat sheet and soft, washable CushionWeb which revolutionsed girths and headcollars. He was a hugely popular figure too. l Event rider Nicola Wilson unveiled the refurbishments TEN at R&R Country’s Selby store. There YEARS was quite a party to celebrate the team silver AGO... medal Nicola had just won at the London 2012 Olympics. l ETN predicted a saddle fitting storm as Dutch scientist Gerry van Oossanen launched the Academy for Master Saddle Fitting Consultants. Her aim was to enhance retailers’ saddle fitting skills with training towards a qualification. l Trilanco began distributing MagicBrush, described as “the grooming sensation that’s taken Europe by storm.”

In October 1992, ETN reported:

l Puffa announced it was “poised for big things” following a £750,000 cash injection from venture capitalists headed by entrepreneur and former IBM executive Paul Botterill. An immediate result was investment in full colour advertisements in Horse & Hound, 30 Country Living and YEARS The Lady magazines.

AGO... l Elsewhere in equestrian fashion, Spalshdown, HAC-TAC, Mascot, Mister Fox, Javlin and Black Sheep were the labels with exciting new launches. l Barry Fehler of South Essex Insurance Brokers was calling for horses which had been written-off under ‘loss of use’ claims to be freeze-branded “to avoid insurance swindles.” l Tony Russell took over from Harold Knight as chief executive of the Society of Master Saddlers (SMS). And David Seipel, managing director of E Jeffries, was nominated as chairman of the Leathergoods Industry Training Organisation.

WWW.EQUESTRIANTRADENEWS.COM

CHRISTMAS GIFTS | ETN

The gifts that keep on giving Christmas is coming…check out ETN’s selection of fun and practical present ideas.

AS SEEN IN JOHN LEWIS

Christmas all wrapped up

As featured in the John Lewis top ten toys for Christmas 2022, the LeMieux Toy Pony collection offers learning and play.

Four new ponies to join the herd are YouTube sensation Harlow White’s pony Popcorn, Thomas the Chestnut, and Shimmer and Magic the unicorns.

They’re soft and cuddly but also stand up on their own. Matching accessories include rugs, saddle pads, fly hoods and polo bandages as well as fully working saddles and bridles in real leather.

RRPs are from £49.95.

COSY COMFORT FOR CHRISTMAS

Hy Equestrian Thelwell Collection Cushions from Battles add a dash of country chic to any home.

A perfect gift for the horsey friend, these fun cushions know no age boundaries.

Available in a variety of shapes and designs, the Thelwell themed range includes draught excluders too. The cushion’s trade price is £6 (RRP £11.99).

Goes down a treat

They taste good and smell delicious. So make sure there’s a seasonal display of NAF Treats near the checkout for the perfect gift solution.

These healthy titbits – which make great stocking fillers - are formulated using only the best quality ingredients.

With no added sugar and low in starch and calories, they can be fed every day, or now and again as a reward, as a training aid or simply to let a horse know how much he’s loved.

RRPs are a tempting £4.20 for each 1kg bag.

Need some good value, eye-catching gifts to stock? Look no further than Jenkinsons Equestrian…

From cards and wrap to chocolate unicorns and jigsaws, this helpful wholesaler knows just what will get your customers into the Christmas shopping spirit.

New product designs for 2022 feature horses, donkeys and dogs. There are mugs, books, hat covers and, of course, the obligatory Christmas socks.

Fresh additions to Jenkinsons’ gift range this year are country and canine themed gifts such as scented candles, diffusers, scarves and mugs. There’s something imaginative for all ages and interests, and at competitive price points too.

Calendars always make great gifts. So, check out the Wacky World of Horses and Wacky World of Dogs cartoon calendars plus a Thelwell edition for 2023 too. All are guaranteed to raise a chuckle.

On a gentler theme, Away in a Manger cards come in packs of five with red envelopes. And this gorgeous donkey, robin and holly mug is designed by renowned Yorkshire artist Bree Merryn.

PAMPERING WITH THELWELL

Thelwell Silky Mane & Tail D-Tangler from NAF makes grooming easy and fun.

It untangles untidy knots with ease, helping to avoid damage while supporting condition and shine. The non-sticky, non-greasy conditioning spray leaves the mane and tail easily brushed through and looking luxuriant.

The perfect way for your customers to give their own Thelwells the gift of a Christmas pamper.

FOR SEASONAL SMILES

Limited-edition festive hat silks from Equetech will raise a smile and add a sprinkling of Christmas cheer.

One-size-fits-all designs include Santa's Helper, Sproutie, Dasher Reindeer, Santa and Santa's Stuck Down A Chimney. RRPs are from £14.95 to £18.50.

For those who like to dress up their horse, Equetech Santa's Helper breastplate will ‘jingle all the way.’

The plush, novelty breastplate comes in red with faux fur trim edging, a soft touch lining, adjustable straps and clips to attach to the saddle D rings. The RRP is £19.95.

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ETN | CHRISTMAS GIFTS

Practical presents galore

Santa’s elves are spoilt for choice when they stock up on practical horsey presents at Stubbs England.

Take this Welly Crown, a giant leap forward for rubber boot storage. Generously sized with solid wrought iron safety knobs, it stores three pairs of boots. The strong, wallmounted rack has an emerald green or black Stubbyfine coated finish.

Everyone who rides will love this ‘up and over’ combined mounting block and pole block.

Based on Stubbs’ popular twostep Mountie, this three-step version is perfect for getting on a larger horse. Shallow cups moulded into both sides of all three steps allow creation of a training triple jump.

Best of all, if a rider needs to

PONY’S STOCKING FILLER Make a pony happy on Christmas morning by stocking these Silvermoor Treatsies.

The perfect seasonal titbit, they’re low in sugar and starch yet irresistibly delicious. Flavours include beetroot.

RRPs are from £4.20.

SNUGGLE UP

The Supreme Products Child’s Dotty Fleece Onesie is perfect for snuggling up after a long day at the yard.

Made in soft fleece, the eyecatching polka dot onesie will also keep kids clean and warm at competitions.

The fun and practical garment comes in pretty pink, rosette red or noble navy, RRP £31.99, and teams with other items in the Supreme Products Dotty Fleece Collection Supreme Products is available from Battles.

get off to adjust the jump… it’s so easy to mount again! With rope handles either side and a slip-resistant tread, multiple products store neatly as a nest.

Colours are red, blue, pink or yellow.

Every dressage diva would be thrilled with this set of eight dressage markers on Christmas morning. An original Stubbs design, the hoop frame makes for easy handling and treading into the ground.

The latest Stubbybond labels are more durable than ever and the steelwork is coated in Stubbyfine for a long life.

Thelwell rides high

Thelwell is big this Christmas.

There’s a movie in the making and next year would have been the cartoonist’s 100th birthday.

Many years have passed since Penelope Rides Again was last widely available in print. Now it’s back in paperback published by Quiller at £9.95, with a special edition to mark the centenary.

Also new from Quiller is Ultimate Exercise Routines for Riders, which is packed with ideas to work off the Christmas pudding.

Author and personal trainer Laura Crump Anderson recognises that horse people are often time-poor when it comes to their own exercise regimes.

So she’s packed the spiralbound volume with easy-tomanage ideas to get riders as fit as their horses. The RRP is £22.95.

TREAT THEM TO AN ADVENT CALENDAR The Maxima Equestrian advent calendar has two horse treats behind each day’s window.

Flavours are kiwi, wild fruit, apricot-peach and beetroot – all unusual and very tasty, and just right for Christmas.

The calendar’s packing is recyclable and the attractivelyshaped treats are made with natural ingredients.

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CHRISTMAS GIFTS | ETN

MAKE IT FESTIVE FOR FRIENDS AND FAMILY For her…

The Rhinegold Half Zip Base Layer, in soft, breathable, stretch material with a half zip, gives the gift of warmth and comfort. A closefitting, technical top, it’s finished with Rhinegold logos. In sizes small to extra-large, and black or grey, the RRP is £28.50 Rhinegold Warmer Weight Riding Tights have a soft brushed lining with thermal properties. The nylon/ Spandex mix offers a comfortable, stretchy fit. There’s flat overlock stitching on the waistband and seat, a hidden zip pocket in the back of the waistband and a silicone dotted knee area for added grip. Available in sizes 8-18, the RRP is £42.95.

For him…

Super-soft lined Rhinegold Elite Men’s Thermal Breeches keep out the winter chill. The cotton/ Spandex fabric has fourway stretch, while the stretch suede full seat offers extra grip in the saddle. With belt loops and a zip pocket, plus Rhinegold branding tape along the inner waistband, they come in sizes 3038” waist with an RRP of £46.95.

He’ll also love luxury feel Rhinegold Elite Luxus Leather Riding Boots with elasticated front laces and stitch detail on the toe cap. There’s a user-friendly wide zip pull and two pleated, elasticated leather sections at the back of the boot for a great fit. With spur guards and a sure grip sole, they come in sizes 3-11 and four calf widths at an RRP of £119.50.

For the young rider…

Rhinegold Children’s Classic Leather Jodhpur Boots are traditionally styled with two pull tabs and elastic sides.

These smart, go-anywhere boots come in children’s and adults’ sizes, RRPs from £22.50.

A fun pony camouflage print features on these Rhinegold Children’s Full Seat Tights. With a silicone full seat and inside leg, the pull-on style has a stretchy, soft waistband. In sizes 22-30” and pink or blue, the RRP is £29.95 For the real-life unicorn…

It’s been a best-seller for more than 30 years, and now the Rhinegold Mini Torrent Outdoor Rug comes in unicorn print.

With a 600 denier ripstop, waterproof, breathable outer, the no-fill rug has a breathable lining, making it perfect showery days or hardy types. With multiadjustable chest straps, front shoulder gusset, cross-over surcingles and leg straps, the RRP is £44.90.

Or how about the gorgeous little Rhinegold Unicorn Mini Embroidered Fleece Rug? Sporting a fur collar and finished with a metallic three-tone rope binding, it has the ‘Be Happy’ Unicorn logo on the near side.

In pink or aqua, the RRP is £22.50.

Puds for ponies

Christmas Pudding flavoured Stud Muffins are back by popular demand.

This ridiculously tasty festive equine treat is sure to fly off the shelves… so grab a box or more before they’re gone for another year!

Available from Trilanco, Battles or Jenkinsons Equestrian whilst stocks last, the RRP is £4.59 for 400g.

For the horse…

The Rhinegold Italia Luxury Anatomical Flash Bridle comes in soft leather with a padded, anatomicallyshaped headpiece. The crank-style noseband has a padded cushion behind the chin; while there are protective leather fobs behind every buckle.

Supplied with soft grip leather reins with stoppers, sizes are pony to extralarge in black or brown, with an RRP of £134.95.

The sumptuous Rhinegold Fur Trim Headcollar comes with a trigger hook clip on the throat-lash.

Available in pony to extra-full sizes, and three colours, the RRP is £13.50.

For the horsey friend…

Say Happy Christmas with these Rhinegold Fully Cushioned Sole Riding Socks.

So comfortable for riding or on the yard, antimicrobial properties help maintain a healthy dry environment for toes. The RRP is £7.20.

The Rhinegold Complete Soft Touch Grooming Kit with Bag is packed with colourcoordinated tools - a flexible body brush, dandy brush, mane comb, hoof pick, mane and tail brush and sweat scraper. The durable, drawstring bag has six side compartments, two side handles and a long over-arm strap. The RRP is £27.50.

HANDS UP FOR WARMTH

Every horsey person welcomes the gift of warm hands… The 10 Below from SSG is engineered to keep out the cold.

Offering great grip, it’s now also touch screen friendly as well as waterproof and flexible.

Polar fleece and Thinsulate lining mean the 10 Below glove really does live up to its name. In black and adult sizes 5 to 12, the RRP is £39.99.

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ETN | CHRISTMAS GIFTS

PICK A LICK

The Christmasthemed Likit Selection Box is just what Santa ordered.

It contains three tasty Likit Treat Bars, two packs of heartshaped Likit Snaks – plus two fun games to play.

This great gift idea (RRP £7.49) is available from this month via your Likit wholesaler.

Inspired by a social star

The new Esme Luna from Charles Owen has been designed in collaboration with social media star This Esme.

Ideal for competition or everyday riding, it’s certified to three international safety standards, including PAS:015.

A 360-degree ventilation system is hidden beneath an Esme cosmic holographic glitter ring. The helmet has a scratch resistant matte shell. RRPs are from £220.

You can’t beat a good book at Christmas…

Earlier this year, the horse world lost a great Flat jockey when Lester Piggott died aged 86. While his prowess on a galloping Thoroughbred was without match, his tight lips, love of ice cream and dislike for parting with money were almost as legendary in the weighing room. Enjoy this extract from a new book Ashford’s Curiosities of Horseracing by David Ashford, just published by Merlin Unwin Books.

LESTER LICKS ICE CREAM Colin Fleetwood-Jones was ghosting a weekly column for Lester Piggott in the Daily Star, and finding it hard work. It was proving difficult to extract information from the notoriously monosyllabic jockey.

Fleetwood-Jones lived in Sussex and on a day off he drifted across to Brighton for a relaxing afternoon at the races. Walking back to his car after the last race, he heard a familiar voice behind him. “Hello,” said Lester, “are you driving back to London?

Can I have a lift?”

“I’m sorry, Lester, I only live a few miles away. I was going back home.”

“That’s a pity,” said Lester, “I’ve got some good stuff for your column.”

Fleetwood-Jones took a deep breath.

“All right, then.”

They got into his car, drove down the hill and turned on to the London road.

“No,” said Piggott, “not that way, go this way.”

Puzzled and increasingly irritated, Fleetwood-Jones followed Piggott’s directions, turning this way and that through the back streets of Brighton.

Eventually his passenger told him to pull in.

Lester got out, crossed the road and disappeared into a small shop. After a few minutes he came back, sat down and

50 | EQUESTRIAN TRADE NEWS OCTOBER 2022

started to lick the ice cream he had just bought. “They sell the best ice cream in the country there,” he said.

It was too much even for the compliant journalist. “I don’t suppose you thought to buy me one?” said Fleetwood-Jones, a touch sharply. “Oh,” replied Lester, looking surprised. “I didn’t know you liked ice cream.” ..... AND PREFERS A CHEQUE It was Robert Ellis’s dream to have a horse ridden by the great Lester Piggott. In 1973 he had a chance to make his dream come true.

Ellis owned a three-year-old called Pirate Way. On 9 July, ridden by Roger Wernham for trainer Ron Vibert, Pirate Way was unplaced in a six furlong handicap at Windsor. Ellis then went on a business trip to Brazil.

While there, he had a call from Vibert, who told him that Piggott had phoned and asked to ride Pirate Way in a race he was entered for at Nottingham. According to Piggott, the horse had been given a poor ride at Windsor. If Piggott was given the ride, he would win.

Ellis didn’t usually allow his horses to run if he was unable to be there to watch but this was different. He gave his permission.

On 19 July, over a mile at Nottingham, Pirate Way, at 7-1, won the Playhouse Handicap with Piggott in the saddle.

Ellis was delighted. As a present for the winning jockey, he bought a set of stone ashtrays made in Brazil. A few days after his return, he went to Windsor races and presented the ashtrays to Piggott, telling him how much it meant to have the great man ride one of his horses, and to win on it.

With a distinct lack of enthusiasm, Piggott studied the ashtrays. In the ensuing quiet, Ellis asked if Piggott liked them? “I’d rather have a cheque,” said Lester.

Ellis got his cheque book out, walked to the weighing room table and wrote out a cheque. Then he took the ashtrays home with him.

About the author: David Ashforth was twice voted Horserace Writer of the Year, he worked for The Sporting Life and Racing Post and, in the USA, was a columnist for the Racing Times and Daily Racing Form. He has also written Racing Crazy and The Bluffers Guide to Horseracing.

About the book: If you enjoyed these extracts, there are many more to enjoy in Ashforth’s Curiosities of Horseracing (jacketed hardback £20) published

by Merlin Unwin Books. It’s an unputdownable, delightful collection of stories of racing past and present. Ideal to dip in and out of over the festive season.

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It’s not magic, it’s ShowSheen.® Instant detangling to transform your horse’s tail.

See the proof at absorbine.co.uk/showsheen.co.uk

Clinically proven to reduce breakage by 40% for fuller, longer tails.

Get more from ShowSheen®... ©2022 W.F. Young, Inc.

15/02/2022 08/04/2022 10:50:09

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The licensed veterinary poultice from Robinson Animal Healthcare

The only poultice that may legally be used to treat wounds Ask for at your local stockist, call us on 01909 735000 or visit www.robinsonhealthcare.com

• Licensed by the Veterinary Medicines Directorate Follow us on Facebook & Instagram for a chance to enter our monthly competition

ETN | WINTER CARE

Playing in wet mud might be good equine fun – but it can predispose horses to mud fever.

When mud sticks…

Being well informed about equine conditions is a huge help when selling related products… Dr Jim Rawlinson BVMS MBA MRCVS shares all you and your customers need to know about mud fever.

What is mud fever?

Mud fever, or ‘cracked heels’ is a common term for a bacterial infection also known as pastern dermatitis. It is most commonly seen on the pasterns and is a condition that causes scabs, irritation, sores and in more severe cases heat, swelling and lameness.

As the name suggests, mud fever is typically seen in winter, in wet and muddy conditions.

What causes mud fever?

Mud fever is caused by two factors - damage to the skin surface and bacterial infection.

The skin is a clever and effective barrier protecting the body from the outside world. In healthy horses it is perfectly normal for 52 | EQUESTRIAN TRADE NEWS OCTOBER 2022

numerous different types of bacteria and microorganisms to live on the skin without causing any harm.

However, when the skin is damaged, bacteria can enter and cause an infection. The most common type of bacteria found to cause mud fever is Dermatophilus congolensis, although other bacterial species can also contribute.

What causes the skin to be damaged?

The wet muddy conditions we tend to see throughout winter can play havoc with horse’s lower legs. Prolonged cold and wet can soften the skin, leaving it susceptible to abrasions from mud.

Bacteria can enter the skin through these tiny rubs and infection can take hold.

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WINTER CARE | ETN Interestingly, there is an extra element that predisposes horses to suffering from mud fever, and that is the constant wet-dry cycle.

Many horses can have muddy legs for the entirety of winter and don’t seem to have an issue with mud fever. But those who have their legs washed repeatedly can seem to struggle.

It is thought that the wetting and chilling from cold water, coupled with inadequate drying can leave skin more susceptible to bacterial infections.

What does mud fever look like?

Mud fever can range in severity, but all cases have scabs, most commonly on the pastern. However, scabs can extend to the fetlock and in severe cases, the cannons.

Along with scabs there is often oozing, heat, matted hair, hair loss, crusting, swelling and heat. Severely affected horses can be lame.

What to do about mud fever

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The primary objective of treating mud fever is to remove the scabs. The bacteria are thought to live in the scabs, so removing them will remove the bacteria.

Also, Dermatophilus congolensis is an anaerobic bacteria, meaning it cannot survive in the presence of oxygen.

Removing scabs exposes the affected area to oxygen, helping to control the infection.

Scab removal, however, can be difficult, as not only can it be painful for horses, but the scabs are often thick, crusty and hard to remove. The following steps help to remove scabs in as pain-free a way as possible – Clip the legs with fine clippers. Hair can often act as an extra surface for the scabs to attach to and can also act as a barrier for getting access to the scabs.

Use a cream, such as Nettex Muddy Marvel De-Scab, to soften the scabs and make them easier to remove. When applied to cotton wool and gently rubbed over the scabs, much of the scab will come away. It is important not to forcibly remove scabs, so any that do not come away on initial application should be left. Ensure all scabs are covered with a liberal layer of softening cream.

Wrap legs with cling-film. This should be done with care, and if you are unsure how, seek veterinary advice. Loosely wrap the cling-film around the around the affected area, over the fetlock and down the hoof. Taping it to the hoof can help prevent it from riding up. Take care not to wrap it tightly at the top.

Bandage legs. Place a stable bandage over the cling-film layer.

Horses should be stabled to reduce excessive movement and to keep the legs dry.

Remove after 24 hours. Once the bandage and cling-film have been removed, scabs should easily come away. Wash the legs with warm water and dilute Hibiscrub (never neat) or antibacterial wash such as Nettex Muddy Marvel Disinfect.

Thoroughly dry legs with a towel. Use a separate towel for each leg to avoid contamination.

Apply cream. If your vet has prescribed an antibiotic cream, apply it once the scabs have been removed. At this stage a barrier cream can also be applied, such as Nettex Muddy Marvel Barrier Cream.

In some cases, these steps need to be repeated

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How to prevent mud fever

Mud fever can be difficult to get on top of, and prevention is always better than cure. Follow these top tips for the best chance of preventing infection • Avoid leaving horses standing in wet and muddy conditions for extended periods of time. Ensure they have somewhere dry to stand for at least part of the day and consider laying hardcore in high frequency areas such as gateways and around water troughs.

• Avoid over-washing horse’s legs. Constant wetting and chilling of legs is a contributing factor for the development of mud fever. Washing legs results in them being cold for hours after, which we know increases the chances of developing mud fever.

• Use warm water and dry thoroughly. If you need to wash legs, make sure you use warm water and use a towel to thoroughly dry the legs. Ensure you dry legs promptly and never leave them wet.

• Leave mud on legs overnight. Rather than wash off wet muddy legs when you bring your horse in, place stable bandages on overnight and in the morning brush off the dried mud.

• Trim long feathers. While you shouldn’t over-clip, and expose delicate skin, trimming the feathers and coat over the lower limbs reduces the amount of mud that can stick to your horse’s legs, and also allows you better access to the skin to both observe what is happening, and treat if you need to.

• Use an effective barrier cream. Supporting the delicate skin around the pastern with a barrier cream can be useful for reducing the contact between skin and the mud. Ensure the leg is clean before applying a barrier cream such as Nettex Muddy Marvel Barrier Cream, which helps to prevent mud getting on legs.

Avoid leaving horses standing in wet, muddy conditions for long periods of time.

About the author: Dr Jim Rawlinson BVMS MBA MRCVS is from Nettex.

• Always advise customers to consult their vet if they are concerned that their horse may have mud fever.

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ETN | WINTER CARE

In the bleak mid-winter…

Whether it’s a mild, wet one or a freezing, snowy one, winter brings many challenges for horse owners. Fortunately, there’s help at hand with these innovative solutions.

A vet’s advice

Hoof abscesses are a common cause of lameness in winter, so be sure to have the necessary poulticing products in stock.

To treat an abscess, a hot, wet poultice should be applied, says vet Harriet Deeming who recommends Animalintex - the only VMD licensed multi-layered absorbent poultice available in the UK. Harriet competes in eventing in her spare time, and is sponsored by equine first aid products supplier Robinson Animal Healthcare.

“In order for the poultice to be effective, it needs to be held in place for at least eight hours between dressing changes,” she advises.

To achieve this, Harriet suggests using a good quality cohesive bandage such as Equiwrap. An extra layer of padding between the poultice and bandage also helps hold the poultice in place, she adds, Veterinary Gamgee being ideal.

“Finally, it’s important to add a waterproof layer, especially if your horse will still be turned out in the field,” says Harriet.

“Not only does duct tape applied around the foot help keep it dry, it also secures the poultice and, if the horse is shod, stops the shoe tearing through the bandage.”

Always advise customers to consult their vet for advice, she adds.

Mobile mud care

The Lincoln Muddy Buddy Pack is a handy ‘mud-proof’ backpack containing products to protect horses’ skin in muddy conditions.

It contains Lincoln Muddy Buddy Scrub, Lincoln Muddy Buddy Powder, Lincoln Muddy Buddy Ointment and a dog bone sponge.

A great way to keep everything together in a practical ‘mud solution’ pack. The RRP is £28.99 and it’s available from Battles.

Clean pair of heels

Dodson & Horrell Mud HeeI is a dried herbal supplement for nutritional support of skin exposed to muddy conditions.

It contains echinacea, garlic and nettle to support the skin’s natural immunity, plus devil’s claw root to encourage mobility. Further herbs support healthy skin growth and maintenance.

The RRP is £35.20 for 2.5kg.

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Whatever the weather…

When the rain comes, and the mud takes hold, NAF has products to help.

Some horses are affected by soil dwelling bacteria gaining access into skin weakened by wet, muddy conditions. By improving the diet, we can help horses strengthen their skin from the inside out, says NAF. Mud Gard contains scientifically verified, naturally sourced antioxidants to flush away excess free radicals from the areas affected by mud. It also contains key herbs and other nutrients, including MSM, to support strong healthy skin.

For optimum nutritional support, Mud Gard should be fed prior to the onset of wet, muddy conditions. RRPs are from £32.55 for 690g.

Create a barrier NAF’s Mud Gard Barrier Cream protects skin exposed to wet and mud.

Your customers should wash

their horses’ legs thoroughly and apply this rich, nourishing cream before turnout. Containing MSM to support healthy skin and hair growth, plus rosemary to soothe sore areas, the RRP is £21.15 for 1.25kg.

Thick, lanolin-based MSM Ointment from NAF provides another means of making a protective barrier while supporting the skin’s natural healing process. The RRP is £14.70 for 250g.

Clean start EquiCleanse from NAF’s veterinary support range, NaturalintX, is the natural answer to first aid.

Designed for safe and effective wound management, EquiCleanse is formulated from grapefruit seed extract.

Used either neat or diluted in water, it offers a veterinary level of hygiene when cleansing minor wounds or caring for superficial skin irritations.

The RRP is £10.50 for 500ml

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WINTER CARE | ETN

Just in case…

The Hy Equestrian Equine First Aid Starter Kit from Battles comes in a handy drawstring bag.

With a trade price of £15 (RRP £29.99), it contains a Hy branded poultice, two Sportwrap bandages, purple spray and scrub – just what’s needed for dealing with minor incidents.

Show you care with hi-viz

Winter means low sun and lower light conditions, especially when riding at dawn and dusk.

Although hi-viz should be worn all year round, it really comes into its own in the autumn.

The Equisafety Wraparound Rug is not only highly visible, but waterproof, breathable and windproof too. Lightweight enough not to overheat the horse, it’s lined with a wicking fabric and a soft, thin padding.

It’s designed for riding in, and can also be used with a surcingle for long reining or leading horses. Crossover leg straps ensure it doesn’t blow up in the wind.

Equisafety supplies flashing attachments which fit to the front and rear for extra visibility.

Available in yellow, pink, red-orange, the rug comes in pony to full sizes with an RRP of £84.99.

ETN | WORKING DOGS

For the dogs in their lives…

When so many horse-people have dogs, it makes sense to stock a range of good value canine products and become a one-stop shop.

WHAT THE BEST-DRESSED DOGS ARE WEARING The Rhinegold Balmoral Quilted Dog Coat is lightly padded with a smooth, breathable nylon lining.

Secured with touch-tape chest and belly fastenings and soft elastic leg straps, a small zip allows for the safe securing of a harness to a lead.

This smart coat is finished with a cute collar and comes in sizes from extra-small to extra, extra-large. The RRP is £16.50.

Rhinegold is available exclusively from Snowhill.

Classic collar The Ascot Dog Collar from LeMieux made from soft, flexible braided rope with attractive contrasting stitching.

With classical looks, it’s designed for everyday wear. The metal buckle and D-ring are on leather endings for additional strength and a flexible fit.

In sizes extra-small to extra-large, and navy, burgundy or peacock, the RRP is £14.95.

A matching lead is available, RRP £19.95.

Retail tip

If, as a retailer, you want to try a few dog products risk-free, begin by sourcing some from your existing equestrian suppliers.

It’ll save on setting up new accounts, carriage costs and minimum order issues.

Many rug brands have matching canine dog coats – which look cute as well as being practical for dogs who hang out on stable yards. And some of the well-known saddle pad firms make great dog beds from similar fabrics.

Check out canine food from horse feed and supplement suppliers and care products too. The key here is that these are brands your customers already know and trust.

56 | EQUESTRIAN TRADE NEWS OCTOBER 2022

It’s playtime!

This Benji & Flo Natural Eco-Friends Figure 8 Tug Dog Toy from Battles provides hours of doggy fun.

And there’s no need to worry about sharp edges with the durable rope which comes in a variety of designs.

Entertaining for all dogs and with an eco-friendly retail display card, the trade price is £4.10 (RRP £8.50).

SELL WITH CONFIDENCE

Your customers are familiar with the NAF brand, so you can confidently offer them canine products from the same stable.

Dog supplements (RRPs from £8.99) include Mobility for dogs with an active lifestyle; Ageility which supports joints, a healthy heart and an alert mind in older dogs; Relief to aid comfortable movement; and Dog’Skin nutritional support for skin health.

When it comes to caring for dogs’ skin and coats, there’s Dog’Skin Solution, a herbal formula to comfort sensitive areas; gentle but effective Dog’Skin Shampoo for dogs who roll in unpleasant things; Pet'Skin Balm - a hydrating balm formulated for dry skin, cracked noses or pads, cuts, scrapes and rubs; and Silky deluxe detangling spray for easy grooming.

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WORKING DOGS | ETN

IN CASE OF BANGS ON BONFIRE NIGHT…

Give a dog a bone (broth)

VetSpec Calm & Focused Formula combines the supplement of the same name with VetSpec Healthy Dog Adult formula to make a unique veterinary specification, cereal-grainfree super premium dog food.

It’s ideal for all dogs that get anxious and over-excitable, suffer from separation anxiety or fear loud noises such as fireworks.

VetSpec Calm & Focused Formula is also helpful to improve concentration and obedience when training young dogs. Its formulation includes tryptophan, prebiotics and magnesium.

Bone broth is a popular way to encourage dogs to eat, keep them hydrated and add health-giving ingredient to their diets.

Karnlea Bone Broth comes ready to use. The handy containers can be kept in the cupboard, stored in the fridge once opened or frozen for future use.

The makers have recently joined forces with Pedigree Wholesale to extend opportunities for independent retailers to stock its products.

Belfast based Karnlea Bone Broth was launched earlier this year. Retailers can order directly from the company or via Pedigree Wholesale which recently became a distributor of the brand.

Karnlea Bone Broth works as a supplement, topper or treat.

It supports gut, skin and joint health in cats and dogs with high levels of protein, collagen and minerals.

It particularly appeals to owners who feed mainly raw diets to their dogs.

RECOMMENDED BY RETAILERS

Comfort after a hard day At the end of a hard day’s work, dogs really appreciate the warmth and comfort provided by Thermatex quilted dog coats.

Manufactured using the same quilted fabric as the brand’s popular horse cooler rugs, the breathable knit draws moisture away from the dog, speeding up drying and cleaning the coat.

There are 26 colours to choose from - including dayglo orange, yellow and lime which are great in low light conditions With sizes to fit most breeds, shapes and sizes, an optional front closure style is available as well as an embroidery service.

RRPs are from £24.50 with no minimum order.

Thermatex dog coats are made in the UK.

TurmerItch for Dogs has been named Product Innovation of the Year in the Pet Product Marketing Retailer Recommended Awards 2022.

The palatable product from The Golden Paste Company was created to support canine skin and coat health.

“The feedback from customers has been incredible and it is improving the lives of so many dogs,” said Hattie I’Anson from the manufacturers.

The salmon based, grain free hypo-allergenic supplement is presented as tasty triangles. As well as turmeric, it contains thyme and lemongrass.

TurmerItch for Dogs can be fed alongside other products from The Golden Paste Company’s pet range. The RRP is £29.20, one tub lasting a 25kg dog approximately 50 days.

MAKING YOUR BUSINESS DOG FRIENDLY

Every office, shop or warehouse has a health and safety policy for humans.

But with more dogs now joining the daily commute, a new training course has been devised to instil best practice for firms.

The iPET Network Level 2 in Creating a Dog Friendly Workplace qualification is designed for offices and businesses that regularly welcome pets.

Regulated by Ofqual, the course covers the skills needed to keep pets well looked after in the workplace, as well as strategies for keeping workers safe in a caninefriendly environment.

WWW.EQUESTRIANTRADENEWS.COM

Modules which lead to a recognised qualification include understanding relevant legislation, risk management, policy making and studying the benefits and challenges of taking dogs to work.

Higher satisfaction when dogs go to work A University of Lincoln study found that employees who often took their dog to work reported 22% higher satisfaction with working conditions.

Employees who took their dog to work also reported increased absorption in their work by a significant 33.4% and in their dedication to work by 16.5% – an overall increase in work engagement of 14.4%.

Nationally during the pandemic, when many people were working from home, 3.2million households acquired a pet. From

2020 to 2021, dog numbers in the UK are estimated to have increased from nine million to 12 million.

Sarah Mackay and Fern Gresty, directors of the iPET Network who devised the new training course, said: "There are more dogs in this country than ever before, and during the pandemic many people experienced becoming a dog owner for the first time.

"Now that people are back in the office, they want to bring along pets, and this is beneficial not only for the workplace, but for the pets too.

"However, we have seen that there is a real need to get this right, and create structures and policies which make our dog friendly workplaces a happy and healthy environment for everyone concerned.”

EQUESTRIAN TRADE NEWS OCTOBER 2022 | 57

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contact Evie Edgar on tel 01428 601031 or email etn@djmurphy.co.uk

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In the saddle

Ready for

There’s barely a schooling snag a leg-yield can’t help to fix – so there’s no surprise that those sideways steps are making an appearance here, too. They’ll supple your horse and encourage him to take more weight behind due to the engagement required to get his hindlegs crossing over, so by making this a regular part of your sessions, you’ll be reaping the rewards in no time.

Introduce leg-yield on the three-quarter line, where your horse will be most inclined to move out towards the track. Rather than allowing him to drift, ask him to step with purpose, then...

1. Apply a little pressure with your inside rein for a small degree of inside flexion, but maintain the contact with your outside rein to keep hold of his shoulder.

C

Warm-up wisely

For a horse who’s on the forehand, it can be tempting to try and get him sitting on his hindquarters from the second you set foot in the arena. However, it’s most important to prioritise getting him going forwards first, allowing him to stretch on a loose rein in walk and trot, before you try and refine his way of going too much.

40 HORSE&RIDER

3. Square turns

H

M

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B

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TOP TIP

Switch between these three exercises during your sessions so your horse doesn’t start to anticipate the next move.

F

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Route 1 Route 2 Route 3 Square turn

2. Move your weight onto your inside seat bone and apply your inside leg on the girth to engage his hindleg and ask him to step him out towards the track.

3. Support your horse with your outside leg behind the girth to keep driving him forward and also prevent him from falling out or leading with his quarters.

When you’re confident with lateral steps from the three-quarter line, there’s no limit to where your leg-yield could go. You could add a few extra steps by attempting it from the centre line back towards the track, or zig-zag to and from the threequarter line, changing the bend as you go. It’s easy enough to do out on a hack, too, and has the added benefit of helping you to stride out some tension if your horse is on the keener side.

A great way to encourage your horse to shift his weight backwards is through 90° turns. This technique sounds simple but don’t mistake that for it being easy – it takes a great deal of balance to master. To do it...

1. Ride large around the arena in walk, applying a half-halt as you approach the corner.

2. Apply pressure with your inside hand to encourage your horse to flex slightly to the inside, and keep your outside hand close to his neck.

3. Squeeze with your

inside leg on the girth to encourage him to keep working up into your outside hand, and place your outside leg a fraction behind the girth.

4. Straighten up out of the corner, before repeating in the next one.

Once you’re confident asking for square turns while going large, why not take your horse on a square at either end of the arena?

You can then upgrade the difficulty by riding a 20m square in the centre of the arena – where you won’t have the support of the corners to help you.

BUYER’S GUIDE

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sing one is better for your back – not to mention your horse’s – and it can reduce unnecessary strain on your saddle, too, but how much thought do you put into the mounting block you use?

Choosing one that suits your riding lifestyle TOP TIP is a simple way to It’s important to position streamline your your mounting block on a routine. That’s secure, level surface and ensure why we’ve taken a it’s tall enough for the size of look at the options horse you’re getting on. available, whether you need one for the yard or lorry, or a combination of the two.

The multitasker

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Mounting from a block shouldn’t be a sign that you lack flexibility.

Repeatedly getting on from the ground puts a lot of strain on one side of your horse’s body – so you’re saving him a lot of stress.

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Made from tough polyethylene, this will keep your grooming kit secure while giving you a safe spot to mount from. With flexi handles for manoeuvrability, it has a watertight 50-litre lockable capacity. jsw4jumps.co.uk

A combined three-step mounting and jump block, perfect for taller horses. With shallow cups either side of each step and a rope handle for easy carrying. stubbsengland.com

The all-rounder

It’s small enough to be mobile, but robust enough to become a yard staple. In fact, if you buy one, you’ll probably end up sharing it between a few of your stablemates.

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IN THE ARENA WITH

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TOP TIP

The position of your block while mounting is important. Too close and you’ll apply a lot of downward force on your saddle, possibly leading to a slip. Too far away and you’ll have to launch yourself, which will be uncomfortable for your horse.

The foldaway

When you’re frequently on the go, you need something that can keep up.

Whether you’re schooling in the field, plaiting for a competition or away from home, it’ll need to be light, easy to handle and simple to stow away.

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MOUNTING BLOCKS

Make getting on your horse easier with these handy blocks

Photo: Jon Stroud

Photos: Jon Stroud

A

horse’s natural inclination is to move in a slightly downhill fashion – after all, naturally, that’s where he carries around 60% of his weight. However, with his front legs doing the brunt of the work, his hindlegs then take a backseat.

As a rider, you need your horse to be working properly through his back so that he can carry you effectively, but this can only happen when he’s working into a soft and light contact that is powered by his hindquarters. In order to generate this energy, you’ll need to strengthen your horse and encourage him to become more supple and balanced. Here are a few targeted schooling exercises to get you started.

Mounting made easier

1. Transitions

2. Leg-yield Lightening your horse’s forehand needn’t be complicated – all you need is a series of simple exercises

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A fundamental weapon that every rider should have in their arsenal is transitions.

Why? Because they'll improve your horse’s balance and encourage him engage his hindquarter-based engine as he moves between gaits, rather than pulling himself along with his front end.

Begin with walk-halt-walk transitions, engaging your core – that is, your stomach, back and seat – to help him maintain his balance and use his hindquarters rather than pulling against your hand. From here, you can slowly build up to trot-walk-trot transitions, and walk-trot-walk transitions.

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It’s strong and durable but also lightweight and easily transportable due to the built-in wheels and handle. Each step is textured to prevent slipping.

Three step solution for mounting any horse or pony. polyjumps.com

HORSE&RIDER 143

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