The UK’s Largest FREE Equine Magazine • Now in its 19th year
FR
EE ®
APRIL 2014
Skin!
This month we focus on: •Skin Disease •Sweet Itch
Dietary fads
•Can they improve skin and coat condition?
Dress Code •The rules...
Windgalls
Sophie Wells A day in the life...
Our vet say’s; “What do you have to worry about?”
Plus:
•Cross Country •Exporting horses •Classical riding •Nutrition •Veterinary matters
Saddles
•New, synthetic or leather?
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Xxxxxxxxxx Have Your Say
Main Features Sophie Wells Interview ..........7 Fat in the horses diet ..............9 Sweet Itch................................10 Windgalls ...............................18 Horse’s in Flight .....................21
Francis Whittington in Sussex
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large turnout of aspiring riders were welcomed by beautiful spring sunshine to Grove Farm Riding school’s open day on Sunday (16th March). Visitors ranging from complete beginners to the more experienced rider enjoyed an action packed afternoon of activities and an inspiring visit from special guest, international event rider, Francis Whittington.
BE SAFE FROM LAMINITIS
Classical Riding Pt3 ..............24
L
Five Minutes with
aminitis is usually caused by excessive ingestion of rich grass. Laminitis Prone Supplement (LPS) from Global Herbs supports your horse’s digestion in order to help you make sure that laminitis caused by grass is no longer the great concern that it used to be. Can this be true? Certainly thousands of horse owners now testify that this is certainly true. Just pay normal care and attention and your horse can be
Victoria Bax ...........................27 Leather or Synthetic .............28 Herpes Virus ....................30-31 Dress Code .............................31 Practical guide to Sweet Itch................................34 Stomach Woes ......................37
The open day celebrated the launch of the latest round of specialist adult riding lessons, Take Back the Reins (TBTR), a seven week course of lessons based on the participants personal goals delivered in a fun and social atmosphere. The programme has been developed by the British Equestrian Federation’s Olympic and Paralympic legacy (continued on page 42)
safe again. Laminitis is a complicated problem. The hormones of your horse are also very important in ensuring that
laminae stay in good shape. However the balance of bacteria in your horse’s gut is also essential in maintaining hormone levels in correct balance. LPS helps ensure that bowel bacteria stay in good balance and that therefore ‘hormones’ are not disturbed. New research shows that some chemicals sprayed on crops can also damage bowel bacteria just like antibiotics. This possibly makes laminitis more of a danger. In this case use LPS and Prebioherb and call us for more advice. Our veterinary team will advise nutritionally on all problems associated with laminae in your horse.
Global Herbs Laminitis Prone advice line: 01243 773363 See more information and testimonials on our website: www.globalherbs.co.uk Lamintis Prone Supplement costs £15.95 for 500ml and £28.95 for 1L
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www.conchiesaddlery.co.uk Telephone Dundee 01382 532536
Step to Aivly Country Store for hoof health
H
oof health can be a particular worry in spring with soggy ground causing soft horn or soles, infections such as thrush or seedy toe, and special concerns for horses and ponies prone to laminitis. Aivly Country Store therefore stocks a variety of products aimed at preventing, soothing or curing such problems. Topical products include traditional Equimins Stockholm Tar for its antibacterial action and NAF Hoof & Sole containing MSM and Zinc Sulphate to harden soft soles and strengthen and disinfect the frog. Among the concentrate feeds on offer that promote hoof health, Dodson & Horrell Suregrow is a useful sole concentrate or as a top-up feed to provide protein, vitamins, minerals with added biotin and chelated zinc, while Global Herbs SupaHOOF is a herbal supplement to support hoof health. There are even specific products for laminitics high fibre, low starch and sugar feeds and chaffs such as Dengie Healthy Hooves chaff and Allen & Page Sugar & Cereal intolerance diet. Supplements include Equine America Lamigard and Global Herbs Laminitis Prone Supplement - the latter even claiming to make winter frosty grass and spring grass safe for consumption by laminitics. Aivly’s experienced, friendly staff are on hand to help and you can check out the full range - including finding collection prices - online at www.aivly.com.
Visit Aivly Country Store, Crow Lane, Ringwood, Hampshire BH24 3EA. www.aivly.com. Tel 01425 472341.
Folkestone Riding Club F
RC was formed in 1980 and has been offering regular lessons, training, competitions, summer camp, pleasure rides, lectures, demonstrations and social events to its members ever since. For many years the club ran a prestigious annual show held at various venues. The show grew enormously over the years and more classes and rings were added. Unfortunately, due to wet weather causing cancelled shows, lack of helpers and various other reasons the club took the decision not to run the show the next year. After a number of years, it was decided the club would not be in a position to run a show in the
previous format so it was the right time to sell the jumps which had been sat in storage. The club wanted to take the opportunity to make some donations to charity and it was agreed at the last AGM the money would be split between three charities voted on by the members. The charities chosen were: • Kent Air Ambulance (KAA) • Riding for the Disabled Association (RDA) (Cobbes Meadow) • he Egyptian Horse Project (EHP) A few members of the club were able to attend presentations to the RDA and KAA and both charities were delighted with the donations. A cheque was sent to the EHP who were equally as gratified.
Aivly checks your protection A
ivly Country Store is helping raise awareness of the importance of a properly fitting body protector, air jacket and riding hat. Their fully trained staff can help assess your existing items, advise on care for longevity and fit new items to you where needed. Following a Pony Club safety badge rally held last year, parents joined children in having a greater appreciation for the impact equipment takes after a fall, drop or blow and how even a hat without injury will change shape over time. Equally we all change shape - upwards or in and outwards and keeping an eye on body protector fit, adjusting the fit or purchasing a safetyapproved standard body protector is important too - especially with unscrupulous merchants selling substandard items over the internet.
Completing your protection from head to toe, Aivly also stocks a range of steel toe-capped boots and for advice from trained and trust-worthy staff, visit Aivly Country Store at Crow Lane, Ringwood, BH24 3EA, online at www.aivly.com or call 01425 472341. Huge range of competition jackets, boots, hats and clothing available at Aivly
Win a pair of
boots of your choice at Aivly!
Try on a pair of Ariat boots in store at Aivly during the month of April, to be entered into the Ariat Boot Prize Draw which will take place on the 3rd May 2014! One entry per customer. Only includes styles stocked by Aivly.
01425 472341
www.aivly.co.uk
2 | April 2014
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Crow Lane, Hampshire, BH24 3EA
Brighten wet days! A
ivly Country Store offers a range of rain sheets including dual purpose waterproof and reflective exercise sheets from Mark Todd and Weatherbeeta. While keeping the worst of the weather at bay, these bright rain sheets will keep you visible even on damp, drizzly or dull days.
To find out more, visit www.aivly.com or browse in store at Aivly Country Store at Crow Lane, Ringwood, BH24 3EA or call 01425 472341. www.equi-ads.com
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Xxxxxxxxxx News
Electrician wins £500 Training Package
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full-time railway electrician from Peterborough has been drawn as the winner of the British Eventing competition to win £500 of training vouchers for BE Accredited Training courses and clinics as well as free Membership for rider and horse. David Clarke, age 29, was drawn at random from nearly 1,500 entries. He is also Chair of the Huntingdon Riding Club. Commenting on his win, the 28 year who competed at EquestrianClearance.com BE80(T) and BE90 level several years ago said: “I have been thinking a lot lately about getting some training and going to competitions so this win is a massive incentive to get going again.“I have spent a lot of time stewarding at for my local Riding Club in recent years and my horse [Dolly Mixture] has just been in the field not doing much, so I am sure she will be very pleased to be out and about again this season.”
Ashfields Carriage and Polo Club Parelli Demonstration
T
he East Anglian Savvy Team, led by Cath Langley 2* Parelli Instructor, recently put on a demonstration of Parelli Natural Horsemanship to an audience of more than 50 people in the stunning grounds of Ashfields Carriage and Polo Club, Essex. Anthony Greenleaves 1* Instructor and Wendy Smith, a Level 4 Parelli student, joined Cath and her horse Fred with their two charismatic partners Wiz and Chico, all three providing plenty of entertainment throughout the evening! Anthony and Wiz’s ‘self-bridling’, backup to canter transitions bridle-less from Wendy and Chico, and jumping halfway over a barrel at liberty with Cath and Fred were just a few of the things that drew audible gasps of disbelief from audience members. The evening then finished on a hugely positive note when it was announced that over For more information contact Parelli UK on 0800 0234 813 or email uk@parelli.com
Lick it with Bug:go! R
ockies’ Bug:go! provides an easy way to add garlic to the horse’s daily diet…through a lick! Garlic has been used for many years as a natural fly repellent and, with Bug:go!, feeding garlic couldn’t be easier. Each 5kg lick combines 10% pure garlic with salt and can be offered in a free access manner in the stable or in a sheltered position in the field. The horse then helps themselves and, as salt is self limiting, only take on what they need! Bug:go! is available in 5kg licks which have a RRP of £9.53.
Vale View Equestrian
R
eaders please note that Equi-Ads will no longer be available free from Vale View Equestrian at Old Dalby, Melton Mowbray. Vale have a vacancy for a groom contact Julie@valeviewequestrian.co.uk
For more information, see www.rockies. co.uk, email info@rockies.co.uk or call 01606 595025
Not a Savvy Club member yet? Learn more and sign up now at www.parelliconnect.com
Ladies Yatesby Polo Shirt in Sunshine Yellow RRP £42.00 Sizes: 8 - 16 www.timothyfoxx.co.uk
Fenland Equestrian Centre
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fabulous day was had by all on a glorious sunny Spring day. Fenland Equestrian Centre saw a good turn out to the first of the dressage league events sponsored by Barry Richards of WestBrook Forge. In order to qualify for the end of the season championship show and be in with a chance of winning trophies, competitors must enter at least two shows and earn a minimum of 10 points. For more information go to www.fenlandec.co.uk. The next event will be on Sunday 13th April followed by 25th May, 15th June, 13th July, 3rd August and the championship on 14th September.
Results from the first of the seasons dressage:
Introductory A 1st - Katy Rumsey - riding Pilgrim 2nd - Sam Lunny - riding Sapphire 3rd - Vicky Grey - riding Spongebob 4th - Clare Barcroft - Riding Bess 5th - Clare Barcroft - riding Granite Preliminary 4 1st - Helena Parkinson - riding Lonach of Forglen 2nd - Lucy Smith - riding Pilgrim 3rd - Shelby Cowell - riding Blaze 4th - Alyson Saunders - riding Showgirl 5th - Charlie-Jay Cartwright - riding Shakespeare’s Juliet
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Preliminary 12 1st - Sarah Chambers - Riding Midas 2nd - Helena Parkinson - riding Lonach of Forglen Novice 24 1st - Sophie Ashdown - riding Bailey 2nd - Maddi Cage - Riding Oscar Elementary 42 1st - Maddi Cage - riding Oscar 4 | April 2014
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Rockies’ range of mineralised salt licks provides Here are some top products for winter… Rockies’ of mineralised salt (or licks provides horses that range don’t require a bucketfeed don’t Health Licks are available in five delicious horses bucketfeed (or don’t flavours need theirthat fulldon’t ration)require with aa simple and cost apple, cherry, mintaminerals and garlic) andcost sized to fit effective way offull acquiring vitamins, and need (carrot, their ration) with simple and into a 2kg holder. They contain salt and a range trace elements. effective way of acquiring vitamins, minerals and of
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News Xxxxxxxxxx
Heart of England Summer Show Caroline Cook reports W
e are proud and excited to announce the running of the first Heart of England show. To be held on Sunday 18th May 2014 at Solihull Riding Club. Formally known as the NPS Area XI Summer Show this year the NPS Area XI committee has joined forces with the BSPS Area 6 committee in order to provide a wider range of classes by combining two shows into one. The show also moves from a Saturday to a Sunday. The objective of the show is to make the day affordable and fun, yet giving people the change to qualify their ponies for the most prestigious shows in the country without the expense and hassle Showjumping fans will be interested of going to multiple shows. The friendly to learn that the Hickstead Derby June) will be sponsored by yet knowledgeable committee are more (26-29 Equestrian.com. The prize pot is than happy to help and encourage £115,000. families starting out on the show scene, and to have an enjoyable experience at the show. The show is proud of its relaxed atmosphere, the classes and qualifiers are high quality and there is even complementary tea and coffee for exhibitors. The committees are looking forward to seeing friends old and new on Sunday 18 May 2014 to celebrate a great area and bring recognition to the Heart of England’s wonderful heritage within the equestrian world. Classes include Ridden, In hand and Working Hunter, For more information and to enter online please visit www.npsareaxi.com or call the show secretary Caroline Cook on 07817 522693 There are also a range of exciting opportunities for sponsors and trade stands, please contact us for further information.
T
Top- class jumping thrills spectators
op names were out in force for the British Showjumping Seniors competition (Feb 28th-March 2nd) at Bishop Burton College, but it was a local girl who dominated. Olivia Dales, 19, from Brough, East Yorkshire, came first and second in the 1.40m Open at the prestigious weekend of competition. It was the grey stallion Casparall who was victorious in the class, with Olivia’s other ride Chopin taking the runner-up spot. Chopin, also a stallion, went on to win the 1.30m Open at the event. Another ride of Olivia’s, Zig Zag Z, was joint winner of the five year-old class, with second mount Arkantine taking equal third. There was no time to celebrate though, with Olivia straight back into the saddle for the six year-old class - which she jointly won on Don. Olivia was also thrilled with Eclipse, who came third in the Foxhunter some achievement at only five years-old. But that wasn’t the end of the success, with Master Reuben fourth in the Newcomers and second in the Discovery and Belinda III taking third place in the 1.05 open. Kim Knightley, Director of Bishop Burton’s Equine Centre, said: “It was a very busy weekend’s competition with some top-class showjumping that kept the spectators on the edge of their seats. “It’s always a joy to see a young local rider coming up through the ranks so we were all very pleased for Olivia. The arena seems to come alive when we have these showjumping competitions; it’s a wonderful experience for our students to see a big show like this in action.” Olivia told Equi-Ads “I had a fantastic weekend and I couldn’t have asked anymore of my horses, they all jumped amazing. We’re so lucky to have such a wonderful venue as well, fingers crossed they’ll continue to run more shows like this in the future!”
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rom sporty Hat Cover designs to fabulous Knee High Socks, the Carrots XC Themed Collection is designed for all ages to enjoy, from pony mad kids to trendy teens and competitive grown ups! The XC Themed Collection from Carrots comes in three different designs; pretty in pink and purple stripes, bold in black and silver stars and bright in multicoloured pink, yellow and blue! Check with your local stockist.
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M a t v h
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Personality Profile We catch up with Black Country Saddles sponsored para dressage rider, Sophie Wells MBE, as we take a sneak peek into her hectic daily schedule to find out what it takes to make your way to the top. At the age of 23, she is reigning World and European Champion at Para Dressage Grade IV, with eleven Championship Gold Medals between her two top horses, Pinocchio and Valerius. She has also ridden as an able-bodied athlete at the Young Rider European Dressage Championships and the Young Rider World Cup, and now rides at Grand Prix.
A Day in the Life of Sophie Wells I am based in Nottingham with trainer Angela Weiss, who is the Squad Coach to the World Class Development and Excel Squads, she is an international Grand Prix rider and also the Director of Para Dressage for British Dressage. I am very lucky to have access to such wonderful facilities that are available at Angela’s, to help train my horses to the very highest level. My day begins between 6am and 7am when I arrive on the yard along with Cheryl and Becca to feed the 22 horses that are based there. It is very hectic at feeding time making sure the horses all get their correct breakfasts. I usually begin exercising the horses between 8am and 9am and have around eight horses to ride each day which takes me through until
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lunchtime. I ride all my horses in the Black Country Vinici dressage saddle which helps me feel closer to the horses, and also allows my legs to hang longer around them greatly helping my nerve problems too! My para horse Reece is now showing great talent for tempi changes and Noki had a fantastic season last year in which we made our Grand Prix debut. Alongside my own horses, I also ride training liveries and work closely with Emma Sheardown who is also a para dressage rider. At 3pm it is finally time for a break and some lunch followed by catching up on paperwork. I then often go for a session at the gym or to a physiotherapy appointment which might be for me or my horses or all of us! It is very important for me to make sure I’m moving
freely and keeping up a strict, strengthening training regime, helping me to improve my position to get the best from the horses. As early evening draws in around 5pm, the arena is harrowed and the horses are checked over and hand-walked if they have been in during the day. This is always a lovely, quiet time of the day to unwind and enjoy some time with the horses without the stresses of training. The evening begins at 7.30pm with a nice hot bath to unwind in before dinner and some time to relax. For more information about Sophie Wells MBE please visit www.sophiewells.com For more information contact Black Country Saddles on 01543 578 243 or visit www.blackcountrysaddles.com
21/03/2014 10:45
Xxxxxxxxxx News
MAKE THE MOST OF SUMMER
S
pring and summer are often the most enjoyable time for riders but hot weather, flies and pollen can bring their own set of issues for your horse. Global Herbs have a full range of supplements to keep your horse happy and comfortable, so you are both free to enjoy the sunshine. For fly concerns, feed FlyFree, a powerful, in-the-feed formula to help horses tolerate flies. The plants in FlyFree are digested by the horse and pass through the skin, so unlike sprays FlyFree covers the whole horse, the whole time. FlyFree has a quick same day action and also has the added benefit of supporting skin condition and shine. To tackle itching head on,the Skratch range contains turmeric and cedar and comes in three different strengths to suit your horse’s needs. For gentle soothing, Skratch Syrup
LAND WANTED djk03@hotmail.co.uk
07554 144 496
comes in a liquid from for horses that need a gentle, soothing and highly palatable product. Skratch is also available in two powder forms; Skratch Plus, our most popular product is used primarily in the spring and summer and designed to maintain normal skin in the most challenging conditions. SuperSkratch contains all the ingredients of Skratch Plus, plus added digestive herbs to maintain the horse’s digestive system. SuperSkratch is useful for both
winter and summer itching. If the appearance of flowering plants and airborne particles causes your horse issues, feeding PolleneX through the spring and summer months can help to minimise discomfort and signs such as itchy noses, runny eyes and tossing of the head. PolleneX is a traditional blend of plants, contains Turkey berry, liquorice and Malabar nut and is available in either syrup or powder form. Finally, the Citronella spray is a complex formula containing citronella oil, lavender, tea tree and lemon grass to soothe and calm. A summer essential for every horse.
Testimonials:
“My horse suffers badly with little flies going into his ears. FlyFree is amazing. I can have peace of mind now all the time knowing that he can have a stress free time in the field.” Ms Sansom “I wanted to write and congratulate you on your excellent PolleneX liquid product. I can hardly believe the results! After the first two feeds she is much more comfortable. I will certainly be recommending this product.” Pat Hardy “Skratch Plus is fantastic stuff, totally outclassed other products, very, very good for the worst itch.” Mrs Whereat To find out more visit www. globalherbs.co.uk or contact the advice line on 01243 773363.
Martha Thomas awarded Kenneth Clawson Memorial Trophy
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he Organisers of the British Eventing Baileys Horse Feeds Jumping and Style ( JAS) series and Championships have announced this year’s winner of the Kenneth Clawson Memorial Cup. The late Kenneth Clawson had a long-standing involvement in Eventing; the JAS series was his
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brainchild as he wanted to offer pre-season competition to Eventers. The trophy was introduced in remembrance of him in 2013 and to reward those who may have faced personal challenge or adversity during the JAS qualifying period. The 2014 winner of the Kenneth Clawson Memorial trophy is 22 year old Martha Thomas from Glamorgan; the JAS team chose her because of her skill and determination in getting to the Championships. Joint-Organiser Paul Davies explained: “We first noticed Martha because she rode so beautifully at the JAS qualifier at Hartpury and had two great top ten finishes in the Novice and Open classes. “Then amazingly, despite having had an eye operation just two days before the Championships, she dug deep to find true British grit and determination to come to Bury Farm and compete.” A very emotional Martha
commented: “Kenneth used to teach me so I am very touched to receive this news. I have diabetes which has recently affected my vision and though I was ok at the JAS qualifiers I was really struggling by the Championships, but my saint of a horse carried me round. “When I had him [Hercules Morse] as a youngster I wasn’t sure whether or not to sell him on, but Kenneth told me under no circumstances to sell a horse with such a lovely attitude and talent, which just shows what a fantastic horseman he was. “At the moment I cannot see very much at all but have been told my eye sight will clear up within the next six months so I will be able to return to riding and finish my dissertation” added the medical engineering degree student. British Eventing would like to wish Martha the best of luck her season ahead and with completing her degree.
Agent of The National Farmers Union Mutual Insurance Society Limited. Agent of The National Farmers Union Mutual Insurance Society Limited. Agent of The National Farmers Union Mutual Insurance Society Limited.
Have you got an Equestrian property for sale? Advertise a property for sale advert in Equi-Ads and get a free advert on the newly launched Equi-Homes website.
Telephone 01159 461146 for more information 8 | April 2014
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21/03/2014 10:45
Healthcare • Feeding
Fat in the horse’s diet: where does it come from and what it can do eg., can dietary fats improve skin and coat condition? Dr Derek Cuddeford, Royal (Dick) School of Veterinary Studies, University of Edinburgh
T
he term fat means different things to different people. Fat is a generic term that encompasses both fats and oils. The difference between these two is in their physical form at room temperature; fat which is liquid at room temperature is called oil. Both are insoluble in water and are composed of fatty acids; over 300 have been isolated from plant tissue alone. Fat includes a conglomeration of different substances, some good (essential fatty acids -EFAs) and some regarded as bad (cholesterol). Fat may be considered undesirable (in cases of obesity) or desirable in terms of increasing the energy density of a diet. Fat has traditionally been “blamed” for causing obesity in the human race although now the focus is switching to sugars and it is causing quite a heated debate between scientists and human food manufacturers. Anyway, as far as we know fat is not bad for horses but “sugar” can certainly be a problem for some! A 500kg horse eating 50kg fresh grass daily (about 10 kg dry materials) will consume around half a kg of fat daily. Normal, basic horse diets contain relatively little fat (3 to 4%) so one might argue that horses are adapted to low fat diets and that high fat diets might confront them with some serious difficulties both in terms of its digestion and utilisation. However, this is not the case since horses can be adapted over a 2 to 3 week period to a diet containing as much as 20% fat. A horse needs a basic supply of fat in the diet since it is necessary for the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins in the small intestine and as a supplier of EFAs. Of these, linoleic is the precursor of the omega-6 fatty acids and α-linolenic acid is the precursor of the omega-3 series. The most popular supplementary fats are the vegetable oils and of these, maize and soya oil are widely used. Other oils used in horse diets include linseed and rice bran. Use of the
latter is questionable because it contains gamma oryzanol, a substance credited with anabolic effects and sometimes used by body builders as an aid to muscle development. High fat concentrates on the whole do not significantly increase the fat content of the total ration by much because they usually contain less than 10% fat. A higher level of fat inclusion makes their manufacturing rather difficult and product stability will be adversely affected. Use of such a high fat concentrate might result in an overall ration fat content of ~5%. An average mixed diet for a competition horse would probably have an overall energy digestibility of ~60% whereas the energy contained in vegetable oil is very well digested, probably up to 90%. This, taken together with the fact that the oil contains ~2.5x as much DE as maize and up to 3x that of oats, means that vegetable oils are great vehicles for increasing dietary energy density. The use of vegetable oil allows a reduction in the overall dietary content of starch. High performance animals that have been traditionally fed very high starch diets often
suffer from some degree of hind gut dysfunction usually manifest as a sub-clinical acidosis although this is difficult to diagnose. Reduction in dietary starch intake contributes to a better hind gut environment because small intestinal digestion is more effective and there is less risk of starch overflow into the caecum. Additionally, the reduction in starch intake is also beneficial for those horses that suffer from Polysaccharide storage myopathy (PSSM) since circulating insulin levels will be reduced as there is less available glucose to absorb. Oil inclusion effectively reduces the need for starchy ingredients in performance horse diets, helps to maintain the energy intake of fussy feeders and is very useful for re-feeding underweight animals. High fat diets are credited with altering the behaviour of horse and they are said to have a calming effect. Horses that have a tendency for recurrent episodes of tyingup are often highly strung so these diets can be very useful in reducing the risk of a clinical case occurring. Fat intakes on normal diets can be very variable depending on the exact dietary ingredients that are used. Concentrate feeds contain between 3 and 9% fat with a mean value of about 5% thus if we assume a fixed level of feeding at 4kg/day these feeds would supply between 120 and 360g of fat with a mean of about 200g. If the 4kg of concentrate is accompanied by about 10kg hay this would supply another 120g fat so total intakes would range between 240 and 480g fat which is still less than the quantity of fat probably consumed at grass. A racehorse eating 9kg normal oats daily would obtain 380g of fat from the oats alone but if fed naked oats (a high fat oat), it would receive 750g of fat not counting that from the forage! (continued on page 26)
What’s in your horse feed? W
Grub’s, are delighted to announce that they will be sponsoring one of Ben Hobday’s advanced event horses, Ramilo. an eight-year-old German bred gelding who has been with Ben since he was a sixyear-old. www.equi-ads.com
Equi_Ads_Apr_National 2.indd 9
ith the inclement weather over the last few months both here, in Europe and in America, cereal and other feed prices can only go one way – and that is up. Do you ever check the ingredients on your bag of horse feed? Not on the back of the bag, but on the stitched in label on the bottom on bag. This will give accurate information on ingredients and analysis as horse feed companies who do not used ‘fixed formulation’ may be tempted to reformulate to ‘best price formulations’ (i.e. substitute more expensive ingredients for cheaper ones). Ingredients are always listed in order of highest inclusion rate first, working down to lowest inclusion rate. Ingredients such as NIS (nutritionally improved straw) and oatmeal are cheap fillers with little or no nutritional value, where as ingredients such as soya hulls, grass or alfalfa pellets and sugar beet shreds offer the best sources of fibre. Soya bean and linseed are very expensive ingredients but offer excellent digestible protein and Soya oil and vegetable oils will be more beneficial to the horse than the cheaper and saturated palm kernel oil. Hickstead Horse Feeds work on ‘fixed formulation’ and we use premium ingredients. You may pay a little more than the cost of that budget range of feeds found in your feed merchants, however remember, you are paying for quality ingredients, not cheap fillers. Why not contact us to find out more about our feeds For any information on Hickstead Horse Feeds products, or for nutritional advice of any sort, please feel free to contact us on 0845 0250 444. info@ hicksteadhorsefeeds.co.uk www.hicksteadhorsefeeds.co.uk Facebook: Hickstead Horse Feeds. April 2014 | 9
21/03/2014 12:23
Healthcare Xxxxxxxxxx
A sensible approach to sweet-itch By Nicola Snowden MRCVS J
ust as the threat from mud fever starts to abate, you begin to worry about summer ailments. Nicola Snowden MRCVS, Equine Veterinary Adviser at MSD Animal Health, manufacturer of Coopers Fly Repellent Plus, the only product licensed to repel and kill flies and lice on horses in the UK, offers some timely advice. Summer Seasonal Recurrent Dermatitis (SSRD) or Sweet-itch, as it is more-commonly known, is a condition caused by a reaction to the saliva of biting midges during the months from April to early November. It causes horses to rub their manes, tails and sometimes their undersides too. In the United Kingdom, it is the antigens present in the saliva of the Culicoides midge and to a lesser extent, a member of the black fly family called Simulium Equinum that horses are allergic to. The severity of the condition varies from horse to horse; some will only rub occasionally, while others will rub themselves bald, causing open sores. Treatment of sweet itch revolves around anti- inflammatory therapy which is often unsatisfactory and
By using a licensed control product, your horse can normally gain up to four day¹s relief can have serious side effects if used long term. Preventative measures are therefore crucial to avoid the condition and limit the suffering which can arise from the intense and unrelenting itching. Control is aimed at minimising exposure to midge bites and often includes some of the following: • Starting control before the midge season - do not wait for your horse to start itching • Stabling your horse during dawn and dusk when midge activity is greatest • Turning horses out in fields with lower midge burdens such as breezy pastures, higher ground and away from woodland
• Preventing horses from grazing areas that have ponds nearby as these naturally attract the troublesome midges • Using an effective fly rug to prevent midge contact with your horse’s skin • Using an effective long acting product containing Permethrin and Citronellol that is licensed to both kill and repel flies. Ask your vet or retail outlet for a licensed, long-acting fly control product that both kills and repels flies, which will come as a readyto-use, topical application. While off-the-shelf products may provide relief for short periods of time, re-application a number of times per day will be necessary which can prove unmanageable. By using a licensed control product, your horse can normally gain up to four day’s relief, although longer or shorter protection may occur depending on climatic conditions, the prevailing fly species and the intensity of fly worry. Sweet-itch is a common skin disease that affects many horses and ponies in the UK and at present there is no cure. Once a horse develops the allergy it will generally be for life, so it is the responsibility of every horse owner to be vigilant in order to aid early detection, and to take preventative measures to prevent unnecessary suffering.
Stable your horse during dawn and dusk when midge activity is greatest
Preventing horses from grazing areas that have ponds nearby as these naturally attract the troublesome midges
Sometimes a change makes you realise what you have been missing Only the very best ingredients are used in Hickstead Horse Feeds, ensuring you peace of mind. Our horse feeds are available throughout the UK and Europe and are supported by an excellent infrastructure of high quality feed mills, logistic support and customer liaison.
Maybe it’s time to make a change? For more details about our horse feeds: visit: www.hicksteadhorsefeeds.co.uk Email: info@hicksteadhorsefeeds.co.uk Tel: 0845 0250 444 HicksteadHorseFeeds
10 | April 2014
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www.equi-ads.com
21/03/2014 12:24
Feeding
A new Hydration and Nutrition system by Sandra Murphy, BSc (Hons)
A
new, innovative hydration and nutrition delivery system was launched at the recent BETA trade show. It was showcased in the New Product Gallery and also entered into the ETN Innovation Awards. EquidGel is a multifaceted feeding system which is set to benefit every area within the equine industry. EquidGel has been extensively researched and its ingredients are backed by scientific data which proves how EquidGel can benefit the health and wellbeing of all horses no matter what job they do. With only three ingredients, EquidGel goes right back to basics, 80% is highly nutritious grass meal along with high quality oatmeal, and a high energy omega-3 oil contained within a novel natural ingredient which when mixed with water produces a soluble fibre gel, this gel not only has a high nutritional value in itself, it holds 27 times its own weight in water suspending the particles of grass meal and other nutrients within it, having a nutritional value of 14.9 MJ digestible energy per kg, which puts it on a par with many good quality conditioning feeds on the market today.
Saltire
However there is a big difference between this and other feeds, EquidGel is fibre based and the unique patented system allows the water holding gel to deliver an increased amount of hydration to the hindgut increasing the volume of the gastrointestinal fluid pool along with providing good quality nutrition. It has been hailed as a ‘Godsend’ by Kerry Weisselberg, editor of E-Venting online magazine and numerous top nutritionists including those who look after our Olympic Gold medal winning squads, racehorse trainers, British Eventers and showjumpers and equine veterinarians and technicians have said that it is an ‘excellent product’. This new product is gaining popularity due to its sheer versatility and simplicity and in some cases the effects can be seen instantaneously. EquidGel is set to become a valuable tool in the management of horses by allowing owners, veterinarians and organisations to provide not only a high level of fibre based nutrition but to enable them to deliver hydration whenever horses in their care require it. www.equidiet.org.uk
Stables
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Call 0845 450 0654 or visit www.seib.co.uk
* Terms & Conditions apply. South Essex House, North Road, South Ockendon, Essex RM15 5BE. South Essex Insurance Brokers Ltd are authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority.
21/03/2014 12:24
Healthcare
Grade 1 Race Winner: Sandown 2013 Ascot 2014
New Km Elite ultimate oil P OMEGA
OMEGA
OMEGA
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"I’ve been using Ultimate Oil for several months now and am very pleased with it. I believe it provides my horses with many extra vitamins and nutrients required by training and this has manifested itself in improved performance & peak condition" Gary Moore, Gary More Racing
Ultimate Oil, a perfectly blended high quality oil for the optimum health, appearance and well-being of your horse • Contains a sustainable source of essential oils of Coconut, Rice Bran, Flax Seed and Sea Buck • 190+ bio-active nutrients and high ratios of Omegas 3, 6, 7 & 9 • Formulated for all leisure and performance horses and ponies • Nourishes with essential fatty acids, minerals, antioxidants, and antibacterial nutrients • Relieves itching and encourages hair growth
erfectly blended high quality oils for the optimum health, appearance and wellbeing of your horse. Fantastic for horses or ponies with sweet itch or skin problems and encourages hair growth. Contains a sustainable source of essential oils of Coconut, Rice Bran, Flax Seed and Sea Buck. 190+ bio-active nutrients and high ratios of Omegas 3, 6, 7 & 9. Formulated for all leisure and performance horses and ponies this oil nourishes with essential fatty acids, minerals, antioxidants and antibacterial nutrients. 1 ltr - £10.99, 5 ltr - £32.99, 25 ltr - £139.99. Telephone 01403 759659 www.kmeliteproducts.co.uk
COCONUT
This image shows a horse that came up in hive like lumps. After being on KM Elite’s Ultimate Oil for 10 days the hive like lumps, skin and coat had much improved.
RICE BRAN
FLAX SEED
25ltr
£139.99 SEA BUCK
5ltr
A
brand new addition to the KM Elite Health Range - the Ultimate Treat! These tasty, healthy treats are made from 100% natural ingredients and include coconut and flaxseed which provide a good source of vital Omega 3 6 and 9. Perfect as a reward or training aid and this big bag will go a long way. £5-99p for a four kg bag. www.kmeliteproducts.co.uk Telephone 01403 759659.
£32.99 1ltr
Ideal disinfectant for stables B
£10.99
N IO N RS O VE SO NE NG NI MI CA CO
FOR THE OPTIMUM HEALTH OF YOUR HORSE
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NE Love and cherish your SOON COMING horse or pony… • A good source of Omega 3, 6 & 9 • Ideal as a reward or a training aid • Contains Coconut and Flaxseed
12 | April 2014
Equi_Ads_Apr_National 2.indd 12
01403 759659 WWW.KMELITEPRODUCTS.CO.UK
arrier Animal Healthcare - Equine V1 - Virucidal Disinfectant (Available in 1L & 5L) leads the field providing wholly different solutions to animal health and hygiene. Specialising in a range of entirely natural, non-irritant healthcare products that are not only effective, but are kind to the animal, the user and to the environment. The first entirely natural, non-toxic, nonirritant, non-corrosive virucidal disinfectant that is suitable for use in organic systems. Not affected by organic matter, Equine V1 has a very pleasant smell and is ideal for terminal disinfections of stables, yards, tack rooms and feed rooms including internal structures, equipment, utensils and grooming kits. Effective against Equine Herpes Virus (EHV1-AB4) and all known bacteria, fungi, yeasts and moulds. Areas cleaned can be restocked immediately. Equine V1 has a high dilution rate and fast turnaround where immediate access and re-stocking is required. Available from Saddlers, Agricultural Merchants & Pet Shops. Visit www.barrier-biotech.com www.equi-ads.com
21/03/2014 12:24
the feed for those prone to
laminitis Lo-Cal balancer
v It’s fed in small quantities - just a couple of mugs per day* alongside forage/pasture make it easier (and more cost effective) to feed than “fortified chaffs”
v It’s affordable - at around £25 for 20kg, it costs just 56p per day to feed* and lasts for ages v It’s low calorie - making it the perfect basis for a calorie-controlled diet which still provides all a horse or pony needs for health and well-being v It’s fully balanced - with a complete spectrum of vitamins, minerals and important antioxidants, plus quality protein for muscle tone, it provides everything that may be lacking in forage or pasture, especially for those on a diet v It’s low starch - so is safe for excitable types and those prone to laminitis or who need to limit starch intake v It’s good for hooves - providing all the essential nutrients for healthy hoof growth means you can ditch those expensive supplements *450g (2 coffee mugs) per day recommended for a 500kg horse
Request an information pack Baileys Horse Feeds www.baileyshorsefeeds.co.uk info@baileyshorsefeeds.co.uk Tel: 01371 850 247 (option 3)
Equi_Ads_Apr_National 2.indd 13
21/03/2014 12:24
Xxxxxxxxxx Feeding
SPRING FEEdING By Dr Meriel Moore-Colyer Senior
Lecturer at RAC and Scientific Consultant to HAYGAIN
I
t seems hard to imagine light mornings and warmer days, at the moment, but spring is on its way! The increase in light and temperature not only makes riding more pleasurable but also initiates grass growth and the delight of fresh forage after the long winter months of conserved forage. As we rejoice in seeing our horses frolicking around in the field and relish the reduction in mucking out, we need to be aware of the change in nutrient supply that fresh grass brings to the diet. Spring grass especially pastures composed of species such as perennial rye grass and high sugar-grasses are specifically designed to produce high levels of soluble carbohydrate (sugar), fructan (storage carbohydrate) and protein which increase milk and meat production in farm animals. However, these grasses are less suitable for our trickle-feeding horses that ingest large volumes of forage every day and thus absorb considerably more nutrients than they need. It is now well documented that high levels of water soluble carbohydrates coupled with low levels of fibre, characteristics of spring grass, can induce insulin resistance, metabolic syndrome, obesity and laminitis. Moreover, spring grass can be deficient in important minerals such as calcium and magnesium. Spring grass is therefore a nutrient-
dense low fibre feed that needs to be balanced with a high-fibre feed. The best ‘balancer’ feed in this situation is hay. When grass forms a high proportion of the daily diet, horses should be offered hay in the field and in the stable. Concentrates should be reduced in order to restore the ideal balance of high levels of slowly degraded nutrients, which is fibre and low levels of quickly digested nutrients, which is sugar. Warmer less windy days can also mean that the air in the stable is more static, so pollen, fungal and bacteria spores will hang-around in the environment increasing the levels of respirable dust in the air. It is in these situations that the provision of low-dust high fibre forage is extremely important. The best and cheapest way to do this is to thoroughly steam hay in a Haygain hay steamer. Haygain steaming has been scientifically proven to reduce respirable particles such as bacteria and mould spores and produce palatable hygienically clean forage. Steamed hay is particularly suitable in this situation as the horse will probably eat considerably less forage than in the winter time and so would not consume a bale of haylage before it goes-off. Once steamed, hay remains highly palatable and low in respirable particles,
so one bale can last the horse for days. So even when the days are warm, the grass is green and the stable chores are reduced don’t forget your Haygain steamed hay which will balance the diet and reduce dust in the stable environment so your horse is fit and healthy for the competition season ahead. For further information please contact HAYGAIN hay steamers on 0333 200 5233 or www.haygain.com
COMPETITION
Blue Chip Goodies up for grabs 1 X WINNER TO RECEIVE: • A Blue Chip balancer of choice • A Blue Chip Quilted Gilet • A Blue Chip AppleCalm or CarrotCalm Syringe 2 X RUNNER-UPS TO RECEIVE: • A Blue Chip supplement of choice • A Blue Chip Navy or White Saddlecloth • A Blue Chip AppleClam or CarrotCalm Syringe 10 X FURTHER RUNNER-UPS TO RECEIVE:
• A £10 money off voucher • A Blue Chip baseball cap QUESTION Which Blue Chip feed balancer would be suitable for Native Ponies? Answers by email to kirsty@equiads.net or by post to Blue Chip Comp; Equi-Ads Ltd., 126 Derby Road, Long Eaton, Notts NG10 4LS. Please include your telephone number. Closing date is 30th April 2014. 14 | April 2014
Equi_Ads_Apr_National 2.indd 14
www.equi-ads.com
21/03/2014 12:24
N VE
EW N
I AT
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N C ER
The first feed balancer tailored to the needs of Native Ponies
www.bluechipfeed.com | info@bluechipfeed.com | 0114 266 6200 | facebook.com/bluechipfeed
Equi_Ads_Apr_National 2.indd 15
21/03/2014 12:24
Xxxxxxxxxx Healthcare
CuSHINS Crumbles
LAmIGARd L
AMIGARD XXXtreme Paste. STEP 1. A concentrated form to be administered to your horse or pony if it is prone to laminitis. LAMIGARD XXXtreme paste provides anti-oxidants which support the health of the feet, alongside targeted nutrition to encourage general health. LAMIGARD XXXtreme paste should be given over a 14 day period, a total of 5 oral pastes (servings can vary according to size of pony). Available in 60ml oral pastes (RRP £31.31). LAMIGARD TRT pellets or solution. STEP 2. To be used on a longer term basis for horses and ponies prone to laminitis. LAMIGARD TRT is a supplement for the horse or pony which is prone to laminitis, and can be used at high levels in the short term, and at a maintenance level for long term health. LAMIGARD TRT will help your horses feet to stay healthy all year round and will complement a careful feeding regime. LAMIGARD TRT contains ingredients to support a healthy enzyme level within the hooves and provide nutrients to the internal sensitive structures, as well as promoting sound hoof wall condition. Available in pellets 454 gm (RRP £39.99) a two month supply at maintenance for an average pony, and 908 gm (RRP £69.99). Also available in a 946ml solution (RRP £24.99). All Equine America’s LAMIGARD range can be used safely with an in-foal or lactating mare. For further advise please telephone 01403 255809 or email info@equine-america.co.uk www.equine-america.co.uk
Your horse’s health
T
he natural way. Ponies and older horses are susceptible to the natural variations of the pituitary gland, which is responsible for hormonal production affecting blood balance, muscle and nerve condition and the immune system. When this variation relates to over activity it may helped by the natural food supplement CUSHINS. This has been developed containing Chaste Berry to assist ponies and older horses in supporting their natural hormone level, enabling a more healthy life. Available in a 908g tub (RRP £29.99) a two months supply at maintenance. www.equineamerica.co.uk Telephone 01403 255809.
SooTH-ITCH
M
aximum strength topical cream. Relieves itching and encourages natural hair regrowth. Ingredients: • Lavender Oil - The unique floral-herbaceous aroma make it one of the most important aromatherapy essential oils to support sore and tired muscles. • Tee Tree Oil - Also known as Melaleuca oil - is widely known to soothe skin conditions in horses. • Chamomile Oil - A highly versatile ancient herb with an intriguing aroma, which possesses strong calming and health properties. It may also support nervousness, sensitivity, worries and stress and promote relaxation, sleep and a sense of calm and peacefulness for your horse. • Citrepel - This extract of eucalyptus oil has been tested and shown to be safe and soothing to the skin. Available in 500gm RRP £15.99 www.equineamerica.co.uk Telephone 01403 255809.
New Equine Bedding
Creature Comfort HIGH QUALITY DUST EXTRACTED WOOD CHIP
Only £3.70 + VAT per 20kg bale! Minimum order of 1 pallet (30 bales) Haygain
Delivery included to the following areas
Hay steaming perfected
Priceless hay steamers
www.haygain.com 16 | April 2014
Equi_Ads_Apr_National 2.indd 16
+44 (0) 333 200 5233
Contact Gavin at info@creature-comfort.co.uk or on 0151 486 7306. Please call between 8.30am - 5pm www.equi-ads.com
21/03/2014 12:24
N W E
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Products that really work!
21/03/2014 12:24
Xxxxxxxxxx Healthcare
Windgalls: what have you got to worry about? Ben Sturgeon, Bsc, BVM&S, Cert EP, MRCVS
“
They” say time is a great healer, “they” were wrong. At least it depends on tissues or at least some tissue! You see bone and muscle has a high regenerative capacity and so effectively can heal relatively rapidly, with most injuries we see being acute sudden onset. This is akin to your liver on a big alcohol fuelled night out, plenty of damage even taking a 60% hit, but given time, you will heal. However, compare this to tendons and cartilage. This stuff is designed to last and last a long time. Tendons and cartilage are effectively made up of two components – collagen and glycosaminoglycans and their regenerative capacity stands at approximately 120 – 350 years for the former and 30 – 1000 days for the latter. Therefore, whilst it is meant to last a lifetime, get an injury and there will be virtually no regeneration possible. Does this have anything to do with windgalls and how you should view them? Is the sun hot? Windgalls are an extremely common finding in many horses. They are classed as either articular where fetlock joint effusion occurs or more correctly non-articular when associated with the flexor tendons. Invariably the effusion is relatively small, affecting both fore or hind limbs, non-painful, unrelated to lameness, and would be referred to as idiopathic or of unknown origin and is generally benignly ignored in the vast majority. The windgall specifically relates to a sheath or a pouching of synovial fluid that runs from the bottom third of the cannon to the level of the pastern. The synovial fluid is contained within a thin walled sac comprising an outer fibrous layer and inner synovial membrane, and encompasses the superficial digital flexor tendon (SDFT) and the deep digital flexor tendon (DDFT). The DDFT is also encircled, hugged, by a fibrous ring called the manica flexoria which emanates from the borders of the SDFT in the cannon region. The sheath also thickens at 3 regions, along the length of the sheath, to form annular (encircling) ligaments which support and bind the tendons and sheath to the back of the legs. The amount of swelling is very variable and can be influenced by environmental temperature, exercise level and commonly body weight. It is important to be aware of the anatomical makeup of the sheath because injury and disease of any (or all) of the components can result in a windgall specifically associated with lameness.
It is even more important however, that the onset of lameness is not the singular cue to call a vet because it is now considered than many of the conditions affecting the area are in fact more chronic in their development. This is directly related to the degeneration of collagen and glycosaminoglycans which make up the majority of the functional components of the sheath itself (synovial lining) and of the structures contained therein or providing support. So missing or ignoring an ongoing change may not result in a minor setback, it may result in a 350 year setback! Most commonly an initial presentation identifies inflammation of the lining membrane of the sheath known as a tenosynovitis. This can be as a result of overstretching the sheath due to a miss-step of as a result of a blunt direct trauma although is often compounded by conformational faults and overweight horses. Diagnosis is usually simple with a lameness, an obvious non-articular swelling with heat and pain on palpation and resentment of manipulation. Equally treatment based on conservative management with or without medical antiinflammatories is relatively easy to undertake and follow. However, the innate relationship to underlying structures must not be ignored. Firstly, it must be recognised that a simple tenosynouitis is or may be a precursor warning that undue stress are occurring at the site and repeated exposure will likely lead to further and a potentially more serious injury. So secondly, before a simple diagnosis of tenosynovitis can be made, it is vital to asses and image the tendons and associated ligamentous attachments to ensure no other injuries are present. Whilst ultrasound scanning is generally performed well in practice it is recognised that this particular modality will not detect all defects. For example small tears on the tendon margins, of the manica flexoria or to areas behind the ergot can be either effectively invisible or missed.
In such cases early return to work, especially without considering and addressing a possible cause or causes of a tenosynovitis will result in a recurrence of the distension, a return of the lameness and invariably a worsening of the original condition and thus of its prognosis. To evaluate the area, whilst ultrasound is vital, the use of contrast x-ray studies has proved invaluable with this combination allowing a greater recognition of injuries to both the SDFT and DDFT. Of these central core lesions are identified most commonly in the DDFT with marginal tears affecting the SDFT and of the manica flexoria and as with other tendon injuries the mainstay of treatment is rest followed by a graduated exercise programme. Although small lesions will heal well, larger defects generally carry a poor prognosis. Additionally, the marginal tears and those of the manica are being increasingly treated with surgical resection although the prognosis is currently often quite poor. This may be because of an associated and long standing inflammation of other structures including the sheath membrane and of the palmar annular ligament resulting in thickening and adhesions between the structures and of synovial masses (synovial ganglion or even hernia) interfering with function whilst also often resulting in a cycle of fibrous formation and adhesion followed by tearing and a further inflammatory cycle. These cases are unsurprisingly known as a complex tenosynovitis or as annular ligament syndrome and the best treatment course is as yet undecided. Initial medical management with corticosteroids and high molecular weight hyaluronan (a normal constituent of synovial fluid) to decrease inflammation and encourage normal synovial fluid production, is usually undertaken. However, dependent upon initiating causes, ultrasound and radiographic findings and generally poor response to management, surger is the mainstay of therapy with transection of the ligament and treatment of any concurrent pathological conditions such as adhesions, synovial masses and tears simultaneously. Importantly, those horses with less concurrent problems, or without a longstanding inflammation, have and carry a better prognosis again indicating the importance of not waiting for time to take it’s toll but to actively address effusions.
SPILLERS® remains at forefront of laminitis research
C
urrent, ground-breaking projects range from practical studies that have an immediate bearing on the day-to-day management of the laminitis-prone, to fundamental scientific research to help find the missing pieces of the complex laminitis puzzle. This year the four main areas of research for SPILLERS® and the WALTHAM® International Research Consortium are: • How best to reduce the water soluble carbohydrate (WSC) content of hay to make it more suitable for the laminitis prone, although analysis will still be recommended. • The role of insulin in the development of
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laminitis to help better understand and identify individuals that may be at higher risk of the disease. • The role of blood supply in laminitis to help discover whether the way blood vessels behave in some horses and ponies may have an impact on the development of the condition. • The relationship between laminitis and obesity to understand further the effects that obesity has on the metabolism of some horses and ponies but not others. Clare Barfoot RNutr and the research and development manager at SPILLERS® said: “Our work with the WALTHAM®
International Laminitis Consortium places SPILLERS® at the forefront of laminitis research. This means we can provide the most up-to-date advice to horse owners to help them care for their horses and ponies better. Such research also means that SPILLERS HAPPY HOOF® is the one of the safest feeds for horses and ponies prone to laminitis. It’s a specially blended, low calorie, short-chop forage which contains all the vitamins and minerals your horse needs to stay in good health. Approved by The Laminitis Trust, it can be used as a complete feed or as a replacement for hay and is specifically designed to extend eating time.
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2012 'M
Laminitis. Move forward. Pasture and excess cereal starch can cause laminitis. Feed low sugar, low starch, high fibre Happy Hoof®. Our latest formulation, enriched with vitamins and minerals, including biotin and key antioxidants, is a complete fibre feed approved by The Laminitis Trust. Move forward with Happy Hoof® from SPILLERS®.
Feed from our experience.
For more information contact SPILLERS® Care-Line on 01908 226626 or visit www.spillers-feeds.com ®SPILLERS and HAPPY HOOF are Registered Trademarks. ©MARS Horsecare UK Ltd 2013.
Equi_Ads_Apr_National 2.indd 19 2012 'Move forward' 2013 master 297x210mm (3mm).indd 1
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Xxxxxxxxxx Healthcare • News
JoIN THE RoWEN bARbARy TEAm T
Olivia Yates, Anna Welch and Katy Mickle of TopSpec receive the Nutritional Helpline of the Year Award for the seventh time from Becky James of HAYGAIN.
o help celebrate the start of spring Rowen Barbary Horse Feeds are looking for riders of all ages that need support to help them achieve their goals. If you are passionate about equine nutrition and are regularly competing, at any level across any equine discipline then we are inviting you to apply to join the Rowen Barbary Team. From the entries received selected riders will then be offered a 12 month sponsorship deal which includes a monthly feed allowance and Rowen Barbary merchandise for you and your horse. If you would like to apply, or know someone that may be interested simply send an email to competition@rowenbarbary.co.uk and tell us why you would like support, with at least one photo of your horse or pony. Further information can also be found on www. rowenbarbary. co.uk or by visiting the Rowen Barbary Team Facebook page.
balancing a High oil diet A
dding oils to the diet are an ideal way to help poor doers gain weight, but it is important that when feeding a significant amount of oil to support the diet with the correct nutrients. Show ‘n’ Glow for Rowen Barbary Horse Feeds contains a blend of oils backed up with key antioxidants, specifically Vitamin E to allow the horse to utilise the oil efficiently helping ensure excellent overall condition, weight gain and improving topline. Highly strung, excitable horses also benefit from being fed Show ‘n’ Glow as the high oil diet provides an excellent source of slow release energy, helping support stamina in the hard working horse for sustained performance. Yea Sacc®1026 is included for optimum fibre and mineral digestion and to help maintain gut health, this is particular beneficial for horses suffering from poor digestion. Fully balanced in essential vitamins, minerals and trace elements Show ‘n’ Glow will ensure overall health and vitality with garlic also included to help support a healthy immune system along with spearmint to tempt fussy feeders. For more information & to request a sample contact Rowen Barbary Horse Feeds on 01948 880598 or visit www.rowenbarbary.co.uk
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Travel
Horse’s in Flight, The Process - What happens from Start to Finish: L
OC specialise in transatlantic Equine flights to a wide range of destinations and can handle every element of your horses travel. From your first contact with LOC, they will prepare a comprehensive and detailed estimate within 48 hours of making the initial call. Let’s take the USA for example. At your first point of contact they will ask you for details on the horse/s that are travelling, the destination and reasons for travel as this will all impact the estimate they prepare. They only work with agents that are known to them and have the same values and high standards of care when handling the horses. They will liaise with the various agents to make all the arrangements on your behalf so that you need only one point of contact – LOC. Firstly all horses travelling must have a valid passport to travel – it doesn’t matter where it was issued or what type as long as it is an official passport. The sex of your horse will also determine both what preexport testing will be required and the duration of quarantine needed upon arrival in America. The process for shipping horses from the UK to the USA involves no pre-export quarantine in the UK. Hotheyver, before export, blood serum should be pre-tested for Equine Infectious Anaemia (EIA), Dourine, Glanders & Equine Piroplasmosis. This will be retested upon arrival into the USA. CEM swabs must also be taken for mares and stallions - this should be within 30 days of travel and take approximately 7-10 for results to come back. Should you chose to accept our quotation, they will ask for all of the details on a booking form and begin the process of booking flights and applying for the required paperwork on your behalf. Their full service package means that they will advise what is required and keep you informed every step of the way in order to ensure that your horse travels safely and legally. Once a flight date has been booked and the necessary blood samples are being tested, health papers will be applied for with DEFRA (Animal Health) in the UK, there are two sets of Health Certificates required – the standard TRACES/ITAHC papers and a set of International health papers. These must be signed off by an LVI vet prior to your horse starting his/her journey and also be countersigned by the local Animal
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Health offices in the area. There are only a few airports in the USA that receive horses internationally, namely: Miami, JFK (New York), LAX (Los Angeles) & Newark (New Jersey). The majority of these flights depart from Amsterdam & Liege airports and LOC will take care of the road transport to ensure safe arrival of your horse in either Holland or Belgium, whichever the case may be. The lorries used for International road transport are built with horse comfort and safety in mind, they have on board CCTV cameras for safety and monitoring of the animals; the driver grooms are all qualified in equine transport and are horse owners or riders themselves. The road journey would take the horse to the port of Dover (where there are facilities to rest the horses in stabling as required) for a sea crossing to Calais. In the instance of are bad weather conditions at sea, the Ferry’s Captain will not allow horses to sail - this means you can rest assured that your horses will never have a bad sea crossing. In the event that the weather prevents sailing, our vehicles have the necessary Type 2 authorisation required for travelling by Eurotunnel so you can rest assured that your horse will arrive in time to rest before the flight. Generally speaking you should allow a day or two for this leg of the journey over to Holland and, upon arrival, your horse will be rested at overnight facilities specifically designed for horses in transit – much like a B&B for horses - until the day of the flight. They are then transferred to the airport by road with all their paperwork ready to be loaded for their flight. LOC will liaise with all points of contact to ensure that these stages run smoothly and keep you informed very step of the way. Once at the airport, the horses are handed over to their professional flying grooms who have airside clearance and plenty of air miles under their belt – all Pro grooms are regulated and certificated by the ATA and it is their responsibility to care for the horses in their charge, to water and provide hay and make sure they are comfortable and relaxed. Generally speaking horses travel in specially designed equine jet stalls of 3 spaces per stall, so if you are flying only one horse across, they will have the company of two other horses for the duration of the (continued on page 22)
Behind every great rider there’s a great saddle
Key Features • Unbreakable carbon fibre tree with a Lifetime Guarantee • Anatomically designed soft dressage block • Flexible girthing options for a precise fit • Soft memory foam and flock panel for maximum comfort • Demo models available
Experience PDS by GFS To book your test ride contact: 01922 638094
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Xxxxxxxxxx News (continued from page 21) flight. For larger horses the pallets can be split into two stalls of one and a half spaces each so that they travel more comfortably with the additional room. Each jet stall of 3 has one allocated groom so they provide a ratio of 1:3 ratio of care, ensuring that your horse is well looked after. Upon arrival in America, your horse (horses) are received by the US agents at the airport and their paperwork is cleared before they are transferred by road to the approved quarantine facilities where all horses must complete a mandatory 2-3 days import quarantine period. During this time the blood tests are re-run and a vet will monitor the horse’s temperature and general well-being. Thereafter, if your horse is either under 731 days (2 years) old, OR he is gelding or a racehorse that is in continuous training he/she is free to be released from quarantine and can go to his/her new home. Sometimes owners prefer to collect their horse themselves; however LOC can arrange the transport to your yard if you wish – no matter the distance. If your horse is a mare or stallion that does not fit the above criteria they then go on to a separate CEM quarantine (which is approximately 15 days for mares and 30 days for stallions), after which they are free to go. For further information tel 01306 710100 www.locltd.com
Groom away Sweet Itch!
K
BF99 was tested at Coventry University and effectively killed 99% of the bacteria/ fungus test culture (Strangles, Ringworm and E.coli). KBF99 will also kill some viruses and parasites. Recent user trials have indicated that KBF99 is also effective against scurf, mud fever, thrush, sweet itch and other skin conditions (see website for details). Not only will KBF99 grooming products improve biosecurity, they will also help to reduce coat scurf and improve shine. The brushes are excellent quality and are available in a wide variety of colours. The KBF99 additive is effective for a minimum of two years and all products feature a minimum best before date. Prices start from just £2.00. Visit www.kbf99.co.uk for more details. Tel: 01239 614648
Top Award for EquestrianClearance
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he team at online retailer EquestrianClearance.com won the SEIB Internet Retailer of the Year award. The accolade is presented to a retailer that offers outstanding customer service and the awards were presented to winning individuals and companies during the annual BETA Gala Dinner. Lorraine Meadowcroft, CEO of EquestrianClearance.com told Equi-Ads: “To win the Internet Retailer of the Year Award is a fantastic achievement. When the winner was announced it was a very proud moment and I am delighted that the judges recognised how important customer service is to everyone involved with the business and how much we want to make sure our customers feel valued and looked after. EquestrianClearance.com is one of the most influential online equestrian retailers in the world having grown from small beginnings to become a thriving global success story.
Nicky Mackenzie of sponsor SEIB, presenting the award to EquestrianClearance.com CEO Lorraine Meadowcroft and EquestrianClearance.com Marketing Manager Katie Farmer.
Trolley dash for SPILLERS® Diamond Club winner
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hopping dreams came true for Derbyshire horse owner Ruth Sampson this Christmas as she was the lucky winner of the amazing SPILLERS® Diamond Club Christmas shopping spree competition. Her prize was a whopping £1000 to spend at her local Countrywide store in Ashbourne, Derbyshire. Accompanied by Rachel Austin, Brand Manager at SPILLERS®, Ruth enjoyed every moment of her magical shopping trip. She bought three pallets of shavings, clothing for her children, feed for all her animals, including her cats and dogs as well as SPILLERS® Horse and Pony Cubes for her four-year-old part-bred Irish Draught gelding. Given the torrential rain she even splashed out on some new wellington boots for her children and couldn’t resist a pair of smart new Toggi riding boots as well. Ruth said: “Thank you so much SPILLERS®. It was such an incredible surprise as I never usually win anything!” SPILLERS® Diamond Club is an exclusive loyalty club for SPILLERS® users. Members receive a monthly e-newsletter featuring all the latest news from SPILLERS® as well as exclusive competitions and offers on items for you and your horse. Members also have special access to their own area on the SPILLERS® website and at shows.Rachel told Equi-Ads: “This is our way of sharing our passion for horses and rewarding you forbeing loyal SPILLERS® users.”
Diamond Club benefits include: • Completely free web membership. • Access to the members area on the SPILLERS® website and hospitality areas on trade stands at shows. • Discounts on all merchandise in the SPILLERS® shopping area. • Yearly token redemption scheme, whereby collected feed tokens can be exchanged for vouchers at certain times of year. • Entry to member-only competitions. • Special offers and discounts on insurance, magazine subscriptions and more. Don’t miss out - click on to www.spillersfeeds.com and join Ruth in becoming a member of the SPILLERS® Diamond Club.
Rachel Austin, SPILLERS® Brand Manager with SPILLERS Diamond Club shopping spree winner Ruth Sampson.
Biting Midge Cream
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quimins’ Biting Midge Cream helps to keep midges away and soothe the skin at the same time. The cream contains tea tree oil, chamomile extract and apricot oil in addition to active ingredients to keep flies and midges away, cetrimide to help cleanse any infection, aloe vera for the skin and eucalyptus oil to cool irritated areas. Biting Midge Cream is available in 350g and 1kg tubs, and prices start from £8.99.
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Horse or Pony prone to Laminitis? For the nutritional support of the Laminae and hoof integrity. Laminator is formulated with high levels of Hesperadin, a natural bioflavanoid which together with ascorbic acid helps to maintain the flow of blood into the laminar corum. High levels of Zinc Methionate, essential for strong keratin growth are included. LAMINATOR n Powder 3kg £59.95, 2.4kg £49.75, 1.2kg £26.25 n Pellets 3kg £61.50 n 3kg will last 60 days at maintenance
TESTIMONIAL I have been giving my 13 year old 17.2h dwb mare two scoops a day of your Flexijoint, and within a week she is a different horse, she is happy and moving like a 3 year old, and rode her and asked for collection and she was very willing, not been able to ask for it in 4 years, her sore back has gone and the elevation in her hind and front legs is amazing, she has gone through x-rays and bone scans costing thousands, vets said nothing wrong its in her head, was going to give up. Just want to say thank you and I have my horse back. Amazing product. Karina King FLEXIJOINT POWDER TUBS
n 600g £26.25 n 1kg £40.85 n 1.5kg £58.50 n 3kg £109.55 FLEXIJOINT LIQUID
n 1litre £25.59 n 2.5litre £54.25 n 5litre £103.95 FLEXIJOINT LIQUID WITH BROMELAIN BASE
Fantastic Flexijoint for fluid movement. Try it yourself in capsules and in powder or liquid for your horse or dog.
n 1litre £25.85 n 2.5litre £55.75 n 5litre £106.00 BLOOMING PET PRODUCTS
n Flexijoint Powder 300g £15.79, 600g £30.59 n Flexijoint Liquid 300ml £15.00, 1 litre £39.35 REVITALIFE FLEXIJOINT P
n Human Capsules 200 £21.25
FOR DETAILS OF THESE, THE REST OF THE EQUIMINS RANGE AND YOUR NEAREST STOCKIST, CONTACT:
EQUIMINS LIMITED · Sandpiper House · Frogmore · Kingsbridge · Devon TQ7 2NR Tel: 01548 531770 · Fax: 01548 531131 · Email: sales@equimins.co.uk · Web: www.equimins.com
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Training
The perfect boot for the show ring
W
ith Equitector showing boots you achieve the traditional look whilst enjoying the benefits of 21st century technology. These super comfortable riding boots have a straight top and can be worn with garter straps. Not only do they make you look the part, they have Climate Control technology that keeps your feet warm in winter but cool in summer, stirrup balance system and just in case of the unforeseen, Hoof Proof toe protection has been included. RRP £ 275.00 For more information, www.equitector.com Tel:- 0208 0904029
CLASSICAL RIDING - PART THREE: SIMPLE LEG-
YIELD IN PREPARATION FOR SHOULDER-IN By Anne Wilson M any classical trainers do not use leg-yield at all, since it is not strictly speaking a classical movement. It does not help the horse to collect (i.e. to take more weight onto the haunches) and does not require the horse to bend his entire body from poll to tail, but merely to flex away from the direction of travel. Some trainers prefer to start the lateral work with shoulder-fore, which is merely shoulder-in at a shallower angle. However, leg-yield does not go against any classical principles and I always like to begin with it because it helps the horse to understand the principle of moving away from the rider’s unilateral leg aid, as well as helping to develop his balance and flexibility; crossing one leg over another to move sideways. I make the distinction between simple leg-yield, in which the horse moves forward and sideways across the school, with the forehand preceding, as opposed to leg-yield up the track. LEG-YIELD UP THE TRACK
I am definitely not a fan of this movement and never use it. It consists of displacing the horse’s shoulders in from the track, flexing him, say to the left, and asking him to move sideways up the track to the right in the same way as shoulder-in. The big difference being that with shoulder-in, and to a lesser extent shoulder-fore, the horse is asked to bend around the rider’s inside leg, as well as move
away from it. The aim is for equal bend from poll to tail. Without this bend the exercise is of very little physical value and to teach the horse to perform this without bend is, to my mind foolhardy. After learning to move up the track in this way it is understandably difficult then to teach the horse to bend as he has already learnt to perform the movement with his body more or less straight. In the very early stages of shoulder-fore/shoulder-in training, the horse may well be straighter than desired, but this is a different matter from actually teaching him to do it in this way. Added to all of this, leg-yield up the track is far more difficult than simple leg-yield and not the easiest to begin lateral training.
SIMPLE LEG-YIELD ACROSS THE DIAGONAL
I have never found that simple leg yield has caused the horse any confusion at all, and only find it to be of assistance. It can be taught in-hand from the ground at an early age with great advantage, but of course just gently and slowly at first, one or two steps at a time. Whether mounted or on the ground, the aim is to walk the horse forward and sideways, flexing the horse away from the lateral progression; moving him away from the handler or the rider’s inside leg. The forehand should precede by about half a stride. In the beginning the horse may
Th co en no
Fo ho
So
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Training be confused and his progression may well be faltering. Give him time to sort out his footfalls; it takes time for him to have the flexibility and dexterity to move one leg forward and across, in front of the other. When first teaching the exercise mounted, you will probably find that there is virtually no crossing of the legs, but don’t worry about this. The main thing is that he should understand the idea of forward and sideways at the same time. The Aids for Simple Leg-Yield Let’s assume we are in the arena, riding on the track on the right rein. As we come around the first bend of the short side of the arena, we naturally have a flexion to the right. We begin the exercise on reaching the centre line at ‘A’ or ‘C’. If this is you or your horse’s first attempt, then make it easier by starting at the quarter line after ‘A’ or ‘C’, then you will have less distance to travel to the track on your left. Your aim will be to walk forward and laterally to the left whilst maintaining right flexion. Make a turn off the track at the desired place, with your outside (left) leg slightly behind the girth, and your inside (right) leg on the girth and gently ask for sideways steps with your right leg.
I have found it immensely helpful if the rider requests the sideways movement as soon as the horse moves his shoulders from the track and before the quarters leave the track. In this way he will have some bend in his body and it is much easier then for him to move sideways at least for a stride or two.
will become confused and merely walk in a straight line. This is the use of the indirect rein aid, which of course will only work if the horse is flexed to the right. Make sure you keep the left rein on the neck. If you ‘open’ this rein to the left, then the horse will walk straight to the left.
The Rider’s Inside Leg Generally the inside leg is used on the girth; that is slightly behind the actual girth, underneath the rider’s hip. Sometimes it is helpful if the lower leg, from the knee, is taken slightly back, at least from time to time, depending on the position of the horse’s body. It is generally best to use a series of gentle nudges with the inside leg, but a gentle, continuous pushing aid will suffice if the horse understands this better.
The Rider’s Outside Leg The outside leg behind the girth should be passive, unless the quarters start to swing out to the left. It is important to keep this leg very quiet most of the time so as not to confuse the horse.
Help from the Whip On no account should you kick or use harsh leg aids. If the horse does not understand it is much better to back up your leg-aid with a gentle tap or two of the whip behind the leg. This is providing of course that your horse is completely at ease with the use of the whip and is not frightened by it. He should, in any case, be taught to move away from the whip in a relaxed way, without
any fear of being hurt by it. It is an aid to help him, not a punishment. Inside Flexion It is vital that you keep an inside (right) flexion and do not give too much with the outside (left) rein. It is the action of the right leg, combined with the gentle but firm support of the left rein against the neck which will instigate the sideways steps. If you give too much with the left rein then the horse
Practicing Dexterity This ‘just in case’ leg may need to be practiced, since many of us are used to using both legs and both hands at the same time. We also need to be able to hold with one hand whilst at the same time gently opening and closing the fingers of the other hand to encourage flexion. You may like to practice whilst seated astride a chair. The Forehand Preceding the Quarters The amount by which the forehand precedes the quarters should be minimal; about half a stride as mentioned above. If the forehand (continued on page 33)
Poor horn quality? Horn infections?
The Laminitis Clinic has dealt with hundreds of horses and ponies with “bad feet”; without the correct products they can be a real pain to sort out! The data we collected from these cases 4 4 enabled us to develop Formula Feet and Solution Feet. They proved so successful that they are now regarded as the “Gold Standards” against which other hoof care products are measured. Formula4 Feet is the market leader. It is highly palatable, produces excellent improvement to horn and coat in as little as six weeks by providing over 65 essential micronutrients. 4
Solution Feet is the most efficient way of preventing and the most effective way of dealing with horn inf infections such as white line disease and seedy toe. Solution4 Feet dangerous chemicals and, being isotonic, it can even be used contains no dang painlessly on w wounds. Farriers use Solution4 Feett Matrix where prolonged horn disinfection pr ection is needed e.g. under pads or in white line defects or hoof cracks. whit
Equi Life Ltd Tel; 01249-890784 www.equilife.co.uk (secure online ordering available)
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Training (continued from page 9) This clearly illustrates the effect of ingredient choice on fat intake by the horse. What many horse owners notice following the introduction of vegetable oil to the diet is that there is a marked improvement in coat/ skin condition. Everyone is familiar with that lovely summer sheen that a horse’s coat develops when the horse is at grass and it is rather nice to be able to obtain the same look mid-winter! The fatty acids (FAs) in grass are largely unsaturated and belong to the omega-3 series of FAs(α-linolenic acid constitutes 60 to 70% of the sum total of FA’s in grass). In contrast, the FAs contained in cereals are largely of the omega-6 series. Considerable research effort has been directed toward investigating the activity of omega-3 FAs in different animals because it has been demonstrated that they can have quite marked effects on an animal’s metabolism. Linoleic acid, an omega-6 FA, is the precursor of arichidonic acid (AA) and α-linolenic acid, an omega-3 FA is the precursor of eicosapentanoic acid (EPA). AA and EPA are extremely important, metabolically active substances; docosahexanoic acid (DHA) is formed from EPA. It is possible to summarise the benefits of these EFA’s for horses as follows: 1. DHA supply affects the production of prostaglandins,
thromboxanes, leukotrienes, etc. Prostaglandins, such as PGE2, that originate from the omega-6 series FA arichidonic acid, are pro-inflammatory. DHA results in the production of less inflammatory products and the inflammatory response of a horse can be muted by supplementation with omega-3 FA’s. Their feeding to animals suffering from inflammatory states such as those that occur in pruritis, arthritis and airway disease will benefit from a reduction in inflammation and consequently, a reduction in the pain associated with the inflammatory process. We are all familiar with the pain that results from an inflammatory process that follows a wasp sting, a twisted ankle or a torn ligament. 2. They play an essential role in the immune system and in the development of the nervous system. 3. They assist in maintaining the fluidity of red cell membranes (erythrocyte membrane fluidity -EMF) in exercising horses and assist exercise metabolism in performance horses. 4. They affect plasma omega-3: omega-6 ratios which in turn moderate fat metabolism and functional processes within the horse’s body.
Huntersfield Forge
Producers of Artisan Metalwork, Fabrication, Agricultural Welding and listed/pre 1919 Restoration and Conservation. Proudly presents
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They also make stunning heartfelt gifts, perfect for weddings. Introductory offer of £37.50+ P&P Quote; EA/4/14
We also produce: • Gates and Railings • Garden furniture • Household furnishings • Sculptures/Art • Restoration & conservation of listed/pre 1919 metalwork • Fabrication of Mild steel & Aluminium Just call for your free, no obligation consultation. 07807922984 sallyfraser@hotmail.co.uk
In conclusion, the use of supplementary fat in horse diets is to be recommended for animals with poor hair coat and skin condition although in these situations, the quantities needed will depend on the nature of the basal diet fed. Otherwise, fat addition is a strategy that can be employed in situations where it is proving difficult to meet energy requirements by conventional means. The latter could be due to physiological need or where appetite is impaired. Fat may also be used where the concentrate intake is very high and there is a risk of hind gut acidosis due to incomplete small intestinal digestion of starch.
Concentrate intakes can be reduced because fat can replace conventional concentrate on the basis of one part oil for 3 parts concentrate. Thus, 100g oil can replace 300g concentrate. However, in the majority of cases, it is unnecessary to add oil to the diets of most horses. It has been shown above that each horse’s intake of fat will depend on the type of diet fed and ingredients used. Furthermore, the qualitative intake of fat (eg., omega-3 vs. omega-6) will be affected in the same way and will affect the manner in which the horse’s body responds to physical insult such as concussive injury to the legs .
Huntersfield Forge I
set up Huntersfield Forge when my daughter was 2 months old, with the realisation that I needed a flexible career to enable me to work and bring up a small baby. My interest in metalwork began when I left school and began my apprenticeship as a farrier. I loved shoeing horses as I had the best of both worlds; using my hands and being creative and also working with horses. Unfortunately I was involved in a terrible car accident and was left with two fractured vertebrae, which subsequently meant I was also unable to continue my career as a farrier. This was absolutely devastating as it had been my dream from such a young age, however, such is life and I had several other jobs whilst I contemplated my next venture. It was only when Lily-Rose was 2 months old that I started to look into opening a Blacksmiths workshop. I had access to a workshop on our family small holding and had a forge and anvil from my shoeing days. Coupled with a keen enthusiasm to design and make things, everything pointed towards giving blacksmithing a go. I spent the summer tidying up the workshop and found a bursary scheme with the National Heritage Training group to diversify my current skills, this scheme set me up with a mentor and over a twelve month period changed me from a Farrier to a Blacksmith. I now specialise in: • Bespoke creations from small interiors to projects of a very large scale. • Restoration & Conservation of pre1919 and listed buildings (metalwork) and also • Open days: demonstrating and providing ’taster’ sessions • Produce domestic gates and railings, general fabrication with mild steel and aluminium • Provide a 24hr call out agricultural welding service. At Huntersfield Forge I pride myself in producing beautiful bespoke metalwork. No job is too big or small. Please don’t hesitate to contact me for more information and a free no obligation consultation.
QUALITY STABLES (& DOORS & WINDOWS TOO!)
- ALL AT UNBEATABLE PRICES IF YOU NEED A QUALITY STABLE, FIELD SHELTER OR JUST A STABLE DOOR AND WINDOW, CALL US NOW FOR A COPY OF OUR COLOUR BROCHURE.
OUR PRODUCTS ARE ALL HAND CRAFTED, USING QUALITY MATERIALS AND OFFER EXCEPTIONAL VALUE FOR MONEY.
John Goodrick
WHEY CARR FARM, SAND HUTTON,YORK YO41 1LB TEL: 01904 468433 FAX: 01904 468433 e-mail: sales@johngoodrick-equestrian.co.uk www.johngoodrick-equestrian.co.uk WE ALSO OFFER MOBILE SHELTERS, RUBBER STABLE MATS AND ELECTRIC FENCING
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V c l r s a o h t E V “ m n a r o h a b W V i s h a a a e e V t t W
Personality Profile
‘Five Minutes With...”
Victoria Bax
Victoria Bax from VB Eventing competes at CIC2*/Intermediate level, and is most well-known for retraining ex-racehorses and successfully competing them on the BE and BD. She is widely respected for the obvious partnerships she builds with her horses, which she jokes is easier than building human partnerships! Equiads asked what first made Victoria interested in horse riding. “When I was about three years old, my grandma thought it would be nice one day when she was looking after me to take me for a pony ride,” she explains. “I guess it kind of stuck! Today, I love riding horses that are intelligent and athletic, with a bit of fire in their belly." When asked what key things Victoria has learned from her most influential equestrian mentors, she says eventer Lucy Thompson told her never give up on trying to achieve one’s dreams and ambitions. “Lucy suggested I always use any falls or bad times as experience to help me come back even stronger and more positive,” Victoria says. “It is sterling advice that I have always tried to adhere to.” When asked what the most
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common negative aspect is that she see in event horses, Victoria says she does not like it when people use the fact their horse is an exracehorse as an excuse for poor riding, results, control and discipline. “They are all horses, regardless of breed at the end of the day, and if you are prepared to put the time and effort in, they will learn,” she wisely states. "The lack of thought and interest that is given to the thousands of racehorses that are bred every year and then discarded without any care or consideration to what happens to them is terrible.” When asked which horse she would love to have had the ride on, Victoria says William Fox Pitt’s ride Tamarillo is her top choice. “He was quirky, fun, rewarding and very difficult all at the same time; much like most of the exracehorses I have retrained, including my top horse Crystal Ka, who I think is the spitting image of Tamarillo,” Victoria states. Victoria’s life motto is rather unusual - ‘they fixed me once, they can fix me again!'. "Having been fortunate enough to have not had any hospital stays or operations in my lifetime, there were always the "what if's" that crept into my head occasionally regarding what would happen if I suffered a major fall,”
Victoria explains. “Well, in April 2013, I suffered a major rotational fall at Hambledon International horse trials, which resulted in major abdominal surgery and a two week stay at The Royal London Hospital. Now when I am out riding on a cross-country course, I just thank my lucky stars that I am fit and well, and put my faith in the fact that I can be fixed again!” she concludes.
I“With couldn’t live without... so many horses in work, Golly Galoshes gaiters for horses’ legs have certainly saved my washing machine from the normal constant stream of boots and bandages,” she says. “The gaiters are lightweight, breathable and waterproof and are an essential bit of kit.” “I also love Aloeride, the natural aloe vera feed supplement; it really improves the horses’ coats and general condition.” Visit www.gollygaloshes.com / www.aloeride.co.uk
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Tack Xxxxxxxxxx & Turnout
LEATHER oR SyNTHETIC? Question:
I’m looking into buying a saddle for my new horse and have seen that there are now lots of synthetic saddles around, should I buy synthetic or a traditional leather saddle? 8725/6
Answer:
The Society of Master Saddlers replies: First of all think about the purpose of the saddle, if you are going to be showing or competing at a high level, leather may be the look you decide to go for with judges favoring a traditional look. Leather saddles have the potential to last a lifetime if they are well looked after and are made
from good, top quality leather. However regular maintenance is a must as sweat, rain and poor storage conditions will destroy the leather if it is not regularly cleaned and dressed. A leather saddle can offer a feel second to none and moulds very well between the rider and the horse especially if a natural wool flocking is used. The suppleness of well-cared for leather means they tend to have more flexibility in them as well as good ‘stickability’ providing grip and security. Leather saddles also absorb heat and sweat, whereas synthetics saddles don’t so this may be a A thorough consultation is key
An approved feed material which removes toxins from the horse’s system, safely and naturally. Improves Health, Behaviour & Performance. Guards against Ulcers, Colic, Wind-sucking, Crib Biting and Lameness. Very effective and economic to use. www.finefettlefeed.com or call 01600 712496
swaying point if you are planning to event your horse. Synthetic saddles used to be seen as a very short term solution and they wouldn’t last as long as a wellcared for leather saddle, but they have developed extensively since. Nowadays it can be very hard to distinguish a synthetic saddle from a leather one and although they do last a lot longer these days their life span doesn’t quite match the longevity of leather. Other advantages to buying a synthetic saddle are their durability, light weight, easy to maintain and their reasonable price. You can buy a brand new synthetic saddle for nearly the same price you would pay for a good quality second hand leather saddle. In addition, synthetic saddles tend to be very versatile and will often be able to accommodate hard to fit horses with adjustable gullets. Whichever you decide on, we recommend that you use a Society of Master Saddlers’ Registered Qualified Saddle Fitter to come out and fit your saddle and if any adjustments need to be made this can also be done to either types of saddle. Remember if a rider feels good in the saddle they will ride better, and if the horse feels comfortable he will perform better. Whether you feel more comfortable in a leather saddle or synthetic one, it is very much your own personal choice. To find your local Registered Qualified Saddle Fitter and for more information visit www. mastersaddlers.co.uk or contact The Society of Master Saddlers on 01449 711642.
Brand new on-line tack shop Stockist of Toggi, Sebago, Champion, John Whitaker and many more Free shipping for all items. www.equestriansaddlery-online.co.uk equestriansaddlery@mail.com Tel: 07725033931 28 | April 2014
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Xxxxxxxxxx News
Feed like a champion this year C
‘Think twice before using wormers’ * * BVA advice
WESTGATE LABORATORIES
hampion Horse Feeds provides horse owners with well-formulated, comprehensive nutrition made using top quality ingredients in a state of the art mill in Lancaster. Consisting of five products, Horse & Pony Mix and Cubes, Working Mix, Conditioning Cubes and Veteran Mix, every single bag of Champion Horse Feeds contains an exclusive mineral package, a unique set of ingredients to aid digestion and absorption, all priced competitively against other leading brand names. What makes Champion Horse Feeds unique is the inclusion of both Nushield and Profeed in every product. Nu-Shield is a blend of fruit, vegetable and herb extracts which have natural anti-oxidant properties. Anti-oxidants counteract free radicals by making them inactive, which helps prevent damage to cells that can result in problems such as immune suppression, liver damage and poor performance. Nu-Shield works synergistically with other antioxidants in the feed, including Vitamin E and organic selenium. Profeed is a pre-biotic found in plants and is only utilised by the beneficial bacteria in the gut. This helps improve the health of the digestive system and reduces the risk of digestive upsets. Both Champion Veteran Mix and Conditioning Cubes also contain Actisaf live yeast, which helps stabilise the gut, increase digestibility and decrease lactic acid in the hindgut. All of the ingredients in Champion Horse Feeds have been carefully selected to help horses maintain an active and healthy lifestyle. So whether you have a young horse in training, an advanced competition animal or a veteran equine, Champion Horse Feeds provide cost effective nutritional products for all. Champion Horse Feeds can be purchased through a network of Country Stores across England and Scotland, as well as direct from the mill in Lancaster in one tonne quantities. Prices start approximately at £7.95 for a 20kg bag. For more information visit www.carrs-billington.com. Alternatively call 01228 518 860 if you are in North England or Scotland, or 01785 760 535 if you are in South England or Wales.
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Equine Products Horse Haybell
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April 2014 | 29
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Xxxxxxxxxx Healthcare
horses are accident prone Laura has worked in the insurance industry since 2006 after achieving a BSc (Hons) in Equine Science from The University of the West of England. She studied at Hartpury College in Gloucester and has extensive equine knowledge from personal experiences as well as further professional training. She has two horses to compete – ‘Molly’ who is an Intermediate/ CCI** level eventer and ‘Lex’ who showjumps at 1.35m level – and can regularly be seen competing around the UK. “Having insurance in place could allow you access to the best treatment options available for your horse without the worry of financial restrictions”
M
ost horse owners will take out insurance to provide them with cover for expensive veterinary treatment that might be needed. Anyone that has owned horses before will know how accident prone they can be – if you wrapped them in bubble wrap they would probably be allergic to it! So what happens when you need to make a claim? You should always contact you insurer as soon as possible after
your horse has needed any form of treatment. If you think you will be making a claim you need to ask for a claim form to be sent out to be completed by you and the attending vet. Check your policy schedule and terms and conditions for any special conditions/exclusions that may apply to your cover, including the excess applicable for the veterinary fees and the limit you have for this section of cover. It is worth making your vet aware of this so they know how much work they will be able to carry out within your insurance limit. When making a claim for any one condition, you can continue
claiming for a maximum of (usually) 12 months or until the vets fees monetary limit is reached, whichever comes first. After that point your insurers will have fulfilled the terms of the contract and are not required to continue reimbursing you for any further medication required past that point. Make sure you keep a note of the onset date for the condition i.e. the date that any symptoms first became apparent, as it can be surprising how quickly 12 months can pass when ongoing treatment is required. Any procedure involving referral to another practice or any anaesthetic must be discussed with your insurer prior to going ahead. Often, a written pro-forma will need to be submitted by your vet to explain why the procedure is necessary and what the estimated cost of treatment is likely to be. It is important to bear in mind, however, that you can’t just decide to ship your horse up to the vet school for a scintigraphy (or bone scan) because your horse has gone lame and you want to make the most of the insurance cover you’ve got in place! Any referral must be substantiated by medical reasons from your vet and insurers will need
to give consent for the procedure prior to it taking place. The only normal exception to this would be in the case of emergency lifesaving treatment that is required immediately in an attempt to preserve the life of the horse. Having insurance in place could allow you access to the best treatment options available for your horse without suffering the financial restraints you may be faced with in the event of no cover being in place. If your horse needed colic surgery would you be able to afford this, as well as the inevitable follow up examinations and treatment? Or could you agree to your horse having a costly MRI scan to determine the exact diagnosis of his recent lameness without the protection of reimbursement from your insurance company? For these reasons, it is also crucial to consider the maximum benefit level you opt to include on your policy. Everyone hopes they won’t have to make a claim, but it is vital to ensure you have sufficient cover in place and you are familiar with the claims procedure before the time comes. Now is the time to have a read of your policy wording, not at 3am on your way to the vet school for emergency surgery!
Equine Herpes Virus By Caterina Termine BSc(Hons) BVSc CertAVP MRCVS
E
Equestrian World Insurance Services oFFer tHe FolloWinG specialiseD Facilities
Horse & Pony Insurance quote anD Buy online
www.horseponyinsurance.co.uk Liability Insurance Livery Yard Riding School
Trailer Insurance Equestrian Property Event Insurance
Horsebox Insurance Breakdown Cover FOR QUOTES please PLEASE call: CALL For quotes
0141 427 427 7722 0141 7722
or EMAIL Festival Business centre, 150 Brand street, Glasgow G51 1DH email: equestrianwrld@yahoo.co.uk equestrianwrld@yahoo.co.uk Authorised and Regulated by The Financial Services Authority Equestrian World Insurance Services is a trading name of Greenwood Insurance Consultants Limited which is authorised and regulated by the FCA. Registered office 2 Buchanan Gate, Stepps, Glasgow, G33 6FB. Company registration no. SC268105.
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quine Herpes Virus (EHV) seemed to dominate the equestrian headlines last year when increased numbers of outbreaks were identified throughout the country. The circulating virus was identified as EHV Type 1 (EHV-1). Although EHV-1 can be the cause of respiratory disease and abortions in the UK’s horse population, this particular virus was causing neurological disease. It very sadly led to the death of several horses and a great deal of anxiety within the equestrian community. Historically outbreaks of EHV-1 neurological disease have occurred in waves and the last time such a high number of outbreaks occurred was approximately ten years ago. EHV is a virus that affects horses and donkeys. People and household pets are not affected by the virus but can potentially transmit it from one horse to another. There are many different types of EHV which can produce a wide range of clinical signs. EHV is a very widespread virus and it is thought that 80% if the
equine population has come into contact with the virus at some point in their lives. EHV has been compared to the human cold sore virus where once a person has suffered the virus it remains silent until it is triggered. Common triggers for the virus’ reactivation include stressful events and concurrent illnesses. Although there are at least eight types of EHV, types one to five are seen the UK. Types six, seven and eight are exotic diseases. EHV Type 1 2 3 4 5
Clinical Signs abortion, respiratory and neurological disease ocular disease and poor performance venereal infection transmitted via breeding respiratory disease & occasionally abortion ocular disease and poor performance
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Healthcare • Tack & Turnout
DRESS TO IMPRESS By Kathy Carter A
re you flummoxed by the many and varied items of competition attire available? We outline the key pieces that will see you through the competitive season:
Show jumping
• Tall boots, usually black or brown; decorations and embellishments are allowed. Leather gaiters may be worn with matching short boots. • Light-coloured breeches or jodhpurs; commonly white or beige. • A tweed or single coloured riding jacket; navy or black are most popular.
Clinical Signs
The majority of EHV cases are types 1 or 4 and most commonly present as respiratory disease. EHV-4 can cause a thin watery nasal discharge and a cough. It is also possible for affected horses to suffer a thick white nasal discharge if they develop a secondary bacterial respiratory infection. Secondary bacterial infections occur as the horse’s immune system has already been compromised by the virus and it struggles to fight off another infection. EHV-4 can cause abortion in pregnant mares however this is very uncommon. The clinical signs of EHV-1 are associated with a variety of manifestations and severity. Mild clinical signs such as poor performance or mild respiratory disease can be seen, but the virus can cause more clinical signs such as abortions which occur in the final trimester of pregnancy and neurological disease. Neurological disease can result in horses becoming mildly ataxic to being unable to stand. Severely affected horses suffering from the neurological form of the disease often have to be euthanased. EHV-2 and EHV-5 are less commonly identified types of the virus. They are mostly found on the surface of the horse’s eye causing corneal ulcers or in the horse’s trachea resulting in poor performance. Treatment
There is no specific treatment for EHV. Although anti-viral medication is available for horses its www.equi-ads.com
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• A light-coloured shirt (usually white) with a smart stock or secure tie, or a ready-tied stock or bib. • Gloves, if worn, in a discreet colour. • A securely fastened ‘two point’ helmet that meets industry standards, e.g. European (EN) and British (PAS). If used over a skull cap, helmet covers should be peaked, in coordinating colours to the jacket.
a jockey skull with a velvet or dark-coloured hat-cover. • Tail coats may be worn at Advanced level and above, and are either black or blue. They may be worn with a dark-coloured top hat or helmet secured by a safety harness. • White, beige or cream gloves are worn.
Dressage
Across country, dark-coloured leather gaiters with short boots, or dark-coloured long boots, are commonly worn with light-coloured breeches. Competitors often choose a top in their own cross country colours. Gloves of any colour may be worn. Obviously a securely fastened ‘two point’ helmet meeting industry standards, and an up-to-standard body protector are required some competitors wear an additional air-jacket over their body protector. For the jumping and dressage elements of hunter trials events, see the above advice on attire.
• Tall boots with no decoration; usually black. Matching leather gaiters may be worn with short boots. • Light-coloured, plain breeches or jodhpurs; usually white or beige. • A plain black or navy riding jacket. (Tweed is allowed below Advanced levels). • An up-to-standard helmet secured by a safety harnesses. Dark velvet styles are popular, or
use is not very well established yet. Treatment of affected horses is aimed at keeping the horse comfortable and antibiotics are sometimes required to treat secondary bacterial infections. Protecting your horse
EHV can be transmitted between horses in a variety of ways. The virus can be transmitted from one horse to another by close contact and shared airspace (5 metre radius) in respiratory manifestations of the disease. It is therefore important that when attending shows and rides horses must not become too close to each other to avoid any potential transmission of infections. Foaling fluids and aborted foetuses can transmit the diseases in cases of abortion. EHV-3 is transmitted via breeding. EHV can easily be destroyed by disinfection; therefore strict hygiene measures and extensive disinfection of stables and yards can be carried out to successfully reduce disease transmission. A vaccine against EHV types 1 and 4 is available from your vet. Unfortunately it is only effective against the respiratory form of the disease and its use must be carefully considered in conjunction with your usual veterinary surgeon.
Eventing
Showing
• For showing in hand, wear something conservative-coloured and smart; many people advocate that if your horse has light coloured legs, wear dark trousers; if he has dark legs, wear light-coloured ones, so as not to distract the judge’s eye. Choose a tweed jacket, lightcoloured tie or stock, plain short boots and discreetly coloured gloves. • For ridden classes, wear cream, yellow or fawn jodhpurs or breeches with a tweed jacket, and dark-coloured long boots; a straight-cut top is traditional. Wear a stock or tie and discreetcoloured gloves. • Modern safety helmets with chinstraps (as opposed to a ‘cap’) are advocated in ridden classes, and are mandatory at many, but not all shows. Check your class’ governing body for advice, particularly if it includes riding over fences.
Scotchbrook Veterinary Consultancy Lower Moddershall Farm, Mill Lane, Moddershall, Staffordshire 01785 286798 or 07971 955838 www.scotchbrookvets.co.uk
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NuTRITIoN FoCuS
I
Nutritional expert Peter Fishpool of Scientific Nutritional Products shares his expertise...
n this feature, we invite experts to answer your burning questions - please email us at nutrition@ equiads.com if you have an equine nutrition enquiry. (your questions may be shortened to fit the available space.)
one of the most important glycosaminoglycans (GAG’s), playing a crucial role in the cushioning and lubrication of joints by increasing the viscosity of synovial fluid. • Whole linseed is a prime example of a beneficial Omega Q. I have a 17 yr old gelding 3 fatty acid. The digestive with mild joint issues in his system breaks this down into hocks - they ‘click’ when the EPA and DHA Omega-3 schooling, although my vet says fatty acids which help to it is normal wear and tear, and ease movement and aid the simply early arthritic changes. circulation, thus allowing What ingredients should I be the synovial fluid (joint oil) looking out for? to flow freely over the joints’ From A Darcy, Hants A working surfaces. A. Although we are Joint Choose a high spec supplement supplements are ideal for older for your horse such as Scientific horses to preserve their joint Nutritional Products’ ‘Jointintegrity for the remainder of Right Supreme’, which contains their working life. Key ingredients these ingredients plus Lysine and include the chondroprotective Methionine (sulphur-based amino agents Glucosamine, Chondroitin, acids that support the body’s natural MSM, Hylauronic Acid production of MSM), and Omega 3 Oils. Here is plus the antioxidants a breakdown of their key Vitamins E and C. benefits: A customer of ours, Charlotte Coy, also has Omega 3 Fatty Acids a horse in his late teens • Glucosamine is an that was stiff in his amino sugar used off-fore. “I researched to build tendons, joint supplements and ligaments, cartilage and decided to try Joint Right synovial fluid (joint Joint-Right Supreme Supreme. I feel that the oil). It stimulates daily use of Joint Right is a high spec production of GAG’s mobility supplement. Supreme has maintained (glucosaminoglycans) his soundness; he has even in synovial fluid, to enhance tested negative on a recent flexion lubrication. test,” she says. • Chondroitin is a soluble natural product obtained from crustacean shells. After being consumed it is attracted to the joint cells where it provides the raw material to build up synovial fluid. Chondroitin sulphate works in synergy with glucosamine. • MSM is a naturally occurring form of organic sulphur vital for the building of joints, cartilage, tendons and ligaments. It ‘Clicky’ joints may become therefore plays an important obvious when schooling, in role supporting glucosamine and an ageing horse chondroitin in the maintenance of healthy joints. • Hyaluronic acid (HA) is
Let’s pull together! T
Hot-headedness can be a sign of magnesium deficiency in equines
Q. What are the benefits of giving magnesium to horses? From Kelly Hunter, Devon A. Magnesium is a key element to maintain equine health. It helps improve performance and increases oxygen delivery to body tissues, as well as helping to metabolise of carbohydrates and amino acids. If there is a deficiency in the diet, some horses will exhibit behaviours and signs such as physical body tension, excitability, lack of concentration and general hot-headedness - hence it is marketed as a calmer for horses. Suitable levels of magnesium allow calcium to do its job, helping the muscles work properly and maintaining a balance of consistency within the physiology of muscle contraction and release,
he 22nd National Equine Forum, held last week, saw some of Europe’s most distinguished equestrian leaders, charity figureheads and Defra’s Deputy Chief Veterinary Officer emphasising that all equestrian parties must take collective responsibility for the future health and welfare of all horses. Whether addressing the problem of unnecessary breeding and the treatment of unwanted horses, the development of a workable equine ID system and a central database or the ethical use of the horse in sport, the consensus was that the industry should pull together to find long-term solutions, supported by appropriate government legislation and enforcement. The event played host to the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding between the FEI and World Horse Welfare, which provides guidelines for welfare in equestrian sport. It also saw the launch of e.hoof. com, a new online, multi-media educational tool for vets and farriers as well as interested owners and riders. The National Equine Forum is sponsored by the Association of British Riding Schools, Bedmax, British Equine Veterinary Association, The Blue Cross, British Equestrian Federation, British Equestrian Trade Association, British Horse Society, British Horseracing Authority, Bulley Davey, Darbys Solicitors, Dodson and Horrell, Donkey Sanctuary, Hadlow College, The Horse Trust, Jeffress Scholarship Trust, NFU Mutual Insurance, South Essex Insurance Brokers, Weatherbys Ltd and World Horse Welfare. |
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and the roles of the nerve endings. Imbalances in these minerals can cause tension in the body and associated levels of stress caused by hormonal imbalance. Magnesium within the body is used up more quickly at times of stress, which is why horses that compete regularly are often given it. Scientific Nutritional Products’ ‘Calmer Equine’ is a good example of a feed supplement that contains premium-grade chelated magnesium for effective absorption, plus pre and pro biotics to maintain good equine condition and promote digestive calm. Order Scientific Nutritional Products’ supplement range for equines and canines at www. horsesupplementsdirect.co.uk or call 01377 254900.
FIGHTING INFECTIoN T
reating wounds and skin diseases caused by bacteria has never been easier. Equi-Med Ag have innovatively designed unique antibacterial equine wound dressings to help fight infection and heal wounds naturally. Any knocks or cuts that a horse might experience have potential for infection. However, with the antibacterial wound dressing applied you would be safe in the knowledge that it would get to work immediately to prevent infection before it develops. Designed with a layer of activated carbon and silver fabric, which is proven to have very affective antibacterial properties, the wound dressing can be used treat wounds of both small and large animals. Antimicrobial testing carried out by Lincoln University has scientifically proven the fabric to be very effective at capturing and killing bacteria associated with www.equi-ads.com
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Xxxxxxxxxx Training (continued from page 25) precedes too much, then it is easy to see that the horse will merely walk in an oblique line towards the track. If the forehand does not precede at all then the exercise will be far too hard and much of the physical benefit to the horse will be lost. The Weight Aid This is one of the many occasions when a slight weighting of the rider’s leg, in this case the outside leg, (and therefore the outside seat bone – in this case the left) may well help the horse to move to the left. This is a natural aid and all horses will move towards the displacement of weight in order to stay in balance; unless of course they have been trained to do otherwise by riders who inadvertently shift their weight around. This weight aid should be minimal and there should be no collapsing of the hip or waist. A feeling of ‘stepping down’ into the outside stirrup, whilst keeping the upper body very tall, with expanded chest and toned abdominal muscles, should be enough to encourage the horse to step under the displacement of weight. Practice Equally on Both Reins Naturally we need to practice all exercises equally on both reins and the aids will be reversed from the aids given above, when ridden on the left rein. More often than not, it will be much easier to ride lateral movements on one side than the veterinary wounds (Pseudomonas aeroginosa) and skin diseases such as mud fever (Detmatophilus congolensis), cracked heels and Leukocytoclastic Vasculitis, a condition triggered by UV light. The removal of bacteria from a wound helps promote a healthy environment in which the wound can accelerate healing and reduce the risk of granulation tissue. The activated carbon and silver fabric has also been shown to reduce swelling. It is easy to apply and can be cut down to size from the dispenser box that it is supplied in. Alternatively the wound dressing can be used to dress larger wounds or skin diseases such as mud fever
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other, as circling and turning usually is. As mentioned previously in this series, this is because of the horse’s natural one-sidedness, much like our own one-handedness. One hind leg is nearly always stronger than the other and it is easier for the horse to propel himself sideways away from that leg, bringing it further underneath his body, crossing over the opposite hind leg. Thus, the hind leg which crosses over is the one doing most of the work when moving laterally. Don’t be put off by a difficulty on one rein; unless it is apparently so difficult that you suspect a physical problem, in which case consult your vet. If you practice gently and consistently on the difficulty side, then gradually it will become easier. The aim will be that eventually there will be little difference between the two reins. This is one of the benefits and aims of lateral work – it promotes supple and strong joints, making the horse, in dressage terms ‘straighter’, or more ambidextrous. A Good Classical Position It is very important that the rider practices a good upright position, without tension. In the neutral, at the halt, position, there should be a straight line from the rider’s head, through the shoulders, hips and to the heel. The chest should be expanded which advances the waist towards the hands. The important core body muscles of the abdominals and lower back support the rider in a firm but relaxed way. These
or pastern dermatitis. This unique dressing is the only dressing that leaves the activated carbon silver layer exposed allowing it to be applied directly to the wound. The advantage of this is that the antibacterial properties are much stronger and it can work directly onto the wound. The Wound Dressing is available in a 1m or 2m roll and is priced from £29.95. For more information on all of the Equi-Med Ag products, how they work and what other things they can be used for please visit www.EquiMedAg. co.uk or call on 0191 5118323 or 0777 5577165.
muscles should be toned but not tense. The muscles of the buttocks, inner thighs and legs should remain relaxed, until the inner calves are required for aiding the horse. The rider should sit equally on either seat bone (unless giving a weight aid) with some weight on the pubic area. This does not mean on the pubic bone, which would in any case be impossible. The inner thighs are part of ‘the seat’ and some weight should lie there. This is the pubic area and this position should not be confused with ‘sitting on the fork’ – moderation in all things. There should definitely be no tension in the shoulders, which should be back and down, with the elbows resting on the rider’s side. The reins should be short enough to allow a straight line from the elbow to the horse’s mouth. When the horse flexes or bends say to the right, then this is enough to fill the outside rein which can then support the horse. The rider can then give slightly if required. There should never be any pulling back with either rein. Do not attempt to create flexion or bend by opening the inside rein to the side during lateral training. Use a gentle ‘sponging’ effect of opening and closing the fingers, making the hands quiet when the horse responds. FINAL NOTE ON LATERAL TRAINING
Do not attempt too much, for too
long. Begin in walk, expecting only one or two strides at first, slowly building up day by day. Do not proceed to trot until your horse is completely at ease with the exercise in walk. A few steps of simple leg-yield occasionally will do a newly backed horse no harm at all, but nothing should be practiced to excess. Remember that he has to learn to move forward, straight and in balance, with regularity of stride, before serious lateral work is commenced. In the same way, cantering in an enclosed space should not be attempted until the young horse is fairly well balanced, strong enough in his back and supple enough to be able to negotiate the necessary corners. Next month we will be looking at the aids for the all important shoulder-in. Anne Wilson is a freelance classical riding trainer, based in Bedfordshire; trained with Sylvia Loch and holder of the Classical Riding Club Gold Award Certificate – Phone 01234 772401 or email: annewilsondressage@ hotmail.co.uk www. classicalridingannewilson. com See Anne’s book ‘Riding Revelations – Classical Training from the Beginning’ available from www.blacktent.co.uk
First aid on the yard Total Care Wound Gel
Equimins’ Total Care Wound Gel is a first aid kit essential, helping to prevent infection and hasten healthy skin rejuvenation. The gel contains silver ions that act as a powerful antimicrobial agent, MSM, aloe vera, tea tree oil, chamomile oil, Echinacea herbal extract, elderberry herbal extract and allantoin. In addition to aiding wound healing, it also helps to keep the wound hydrated. Total Care Wound Gel is supplied in a 100ml airless dispenser for easy application and has a RRP of £7.15. Skin and hoof care
Tea Tree Mist can be used on the horse’s skin and on the hooves, to help maintain skin health. The mist comes in a trigger spray bottle and can be used for minor cuts
and bites, skin infection, fungal infection, ringworm and even as a hoof disinfectant. It’s anti-bacterial and anti-fungal and is truly multipurpose, making it a first aid kit must have. Tea Tree Mist is available in 500ml and 1L trigger spray bottles. Prices start from £9.55. Water repellant balm
Equi-Balm Skin Conditioner is a multi purpose, non-sting, water repellent balm that can be used on a number of skin conditions. Free from strong odours and harmful chemicals, Equi-Balm can be used to help maintain healthy skin and encourage new hair growth. It can also be used as a mud block, on sun burn, cuts, grazes, itchy areas and dry skin. Equi-Balm is available in 300g and 1kg tubs. Prices start from £11.59. For more information see www.equimins.com, email sales@equimins.com or call 01548 531770. April 2014 | 33
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A Practical Guide to...Sweet Itch
By Fiona Reed A
s the clocks have changed, the days are lengthening, and daffodils well through their flowering we all feel the excitement and anticipation of the summer ahead with lots of wonderful horse filled days. For a few though the advent of the warmer weather brings stress and worry over dreaded midge. To most of us the midge is merely nuisance and annoyance but to some poor horses and ponies (and their frustrated owners) it causes major distress and discomfort. Sweet Itch is the name most of us give to the allergic reaction to the bite of the culicoides midge, and occasionally other biting insects and the ensuing over-reaction of the horses immune system. Any horse or pony can become affected, but it does more commonly affect native and cob types as supposed to thoroughbreds. Unfortunately once affected there will be a lifetime problem. There is considered opinion that the problem can be hereditary, especially when seen in youngsters but other factors than can trigger it are stress, with causes as simple and varied as irregular feeding, change of diet, incorrect
diet, loss of normal companions, change of environment, prolonged stabling, injuries, pollutions or even insensitive handling. Although none of these scenarios will cause Sweet Itch, they could alter the way the body deals with the bite from the midge. When bitten by the culicoides midge, the immune system of the majority of horses will react to the midge saliva and eliminates the substance before suffering anything other than a mild reaction. However, the immune system of those suffering from Sweet Itch will go into complete overdrive and seriously overreact, causing hypersensitivity. Symptoms are excessive and paranoid itching and scratching causing hair loss, swelling, dandruff, weeping sores and thickening of the skin and in extreme cases infection. The worst affected areas are those the horse can best scratch, mainly the mane, tail and quarters. There is no cure for Sweet Itch, so all efforts need to be concentrated on reducing the cause and reducing symptoms. Although considered a Spring, Summer and
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whatever you do, don’t wait too late, once the auto-immune system goes into overdrive it is very difficult to reverse it. The main points to help reduce the opportunity of the midge to get to your horse are all or some of the following: • Graze your horse away from damp boggy areas, with few trees and preferably exposed to winds and breezes • Bring your horse into a stable, or offer a field shelter during dawn and dusk when the midge is most active, particularly from 4 – 8pm, although this timing will alter throughout the summer and possibly from area to area • If possible, or practical, fit a fan in the roof in the stable or field shelter to keep the air moving • Cloth your horse from head to tail! There are a wide range of very effective rugs on the market that will include face masks, full belly covers and deep tail flaps to help keep the pesky midge out. Made from a fine mesh type fabric they will allow the air to circulate so your horse doesn’t overheat, but they do tend to be fairly fragile, so a spare if a bit of necessity to ensure your horse is still covered while undertaking repairs • Fly and Insect Repellents need to applied on a regular basis. Benzyl Benzoate is an old remedy but there are also some excellent,
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early Autumn condition it can start early and go well into the late Autumn or Winter before all risks are eliminated. Often the habit of itching remains long after the midges have gone. It is essential to take action BEFORE the midges are out and to prevent any skin reaction before the season really gets under way. Managing the problem takes dedication, consistency, time and determination. The aim is to avoid the horse coming into contact with the midge, and therefore important to understand a little bit about the midge. It is most active at dawn and dusk, and lives and breeds predominantly in damp areas with protection of trees. You will find them in highly concentrated levels around boggy areas, rivers, ponds, woods and muck heaps. They can’t fly in breezes or winds in excess of 5mph and avoid open, bleak and exposed areas. Management involves removing the horse from the midge environment and trying your best to prevent the midge from being able to bite your horse ..... sounds simple but is hard work and any break in routine allowing biting will cause an itch and skin problem for the remainder of the summer. Whatever your treatment regime is going to be, start well before the midge emerges in the spring,
In our current issue: WHEN ‘NO’ SEEMS TO BE THE HARDEST WORD, Anne Wilson: FEEDING and NUTRITION, Susan McBane: DO HORSES LIKE TO PLEASE?, Lesley Skipper: INTRODUCING LATERAL STEPS, Anne Wilson: Extract from THE WARHORSE IN THE MODERN ERA, Ann Hyland: WHY IS THE WALK A NEGLECTED PACE?, Charles de Kunffy: IS OUR PROTECTION AGAINST EQUINE FLU EFFECTIVE?, plus Veterinary Care and Management of Old Horses; Classical Riding Q&A; maggot wound therapy; winter worming; book reviews; comment and more. ‘Tracking-up’ is available quarterly for £5.17 per issue or £18.70 for a 4-issue subscription. Clearly print your name, address and ‘TUA22’ on the back of your cheque payable to ‘Tracking-up’ and post it to Anne Wilson, Park End House, Robins Folly, Thurleigh, Beds., MK44 2EQ.
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Xxxxxxxxxx Healthcare effective and longer acting products on the market that only need to be applied every few days or longer. Discuss options with your vet or retailer. All repellents and insecticides must be applied with care and wearing gloves • Add garlic in the feed as this can taint the taste of the skin and discourage the midge from biting • ‘Natural’ products such as Citronella Oil and Tea Tree Oil can create a distasteful barrier but need to be applied both regularly and quite thickly giving a greasy appearance One of the problems of Sweet Itch is, despite taking all the precautions, the horse only needs to be bitten once and an ‘itch/scratch’ cycle starts, whereby the more a horse scratches or bites at itself, the more it itches. To break this cycle sometimes medication is required and there are two effective forms. One is a human anti-histamine treatment, and the more popular is the use of cortico-steroids. These are very effective in suppressing the immune system and hence stopping the overreaction of the body to the midge bite, but can have side effects. Cortico-steroids come in a number of different forms, but all need a visit from your veterinary surgeon before they can be administered. If you are going away from home for a show, event or
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lesson, remember to use all your preventative measures, and take plenty of repellent with you. With all the effort in the world, it is almost impossible to keep every midge at bay and often it takes just one bite to set the Sweet Itch ball rolling. To get it back under control you may need some veterinary intervention which usually takes the form of human anti-histamine drugs or cortico-steroids to calm the immune system down. If your horse has had a bad case of itching and has broken the skin or developed infection then antibiotics will also be needed to settle this, on top of prevention measures to avoid any further midge bites. On a final little note, be wary when buying horses and ponies over the winter if they appear to have thickened skin or scarring, particularly over the crest of the neck and the tail head. This could be an indication of previous Sweet Itch problems that will redevelop come the spring weather. Also think very carefully before breeding from a mare with Sweet Itch as it is considered to be inheritable. So despite the fear of the dreaded Midge, I am sure we are all looking forward to the forthcoming Summer and the better weather it will hopefully bring. Next month we will bring you a practical guide to the other major seasonal problem of laminitis.
Itching already? Combat Summer Itching the Natural ‘Steroid-Free’ Way
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limate changes here in the UK are resulting in a prolonged ‘itchy’ season – extending from the usual ‘April – October’ into problems culminating in almost all year round itching for many frustrated owners. Equinat provides your horse with an affordable, natural solution to itchy skin which stops itching for up to 48 hours. The products, formulated from 100% pure essential oils and herbal extracts offer a non-toxic, environmentally friendly option for conscientious owners. Steroid, Deet & Citronella free, they can be applied to areas with broken skin and/or hair loss without the need to wear gloves to apply. Prevention
‘Aroma Pre-itch’ provides a convenient, natural solution for owners wishing to beat problems BEFORE they become a nuisance OR as the first tell-tale signs of itching & rubbing appear - stopping itching for up to 48 hours. Available in a trigger spray & an intuitive roll-on perfect for facial/eye areas and for horses with an aversion to sprays. Management
‘Aromaitch’ is a soothing cream which is suitable for application to areas of intense itching where hair loss and broken skin have occurred. The soothing action alleviates the urge to itch and ultimately rub, whilst simultaneously promoting natural regeneration of the sore areas AND hair regrowth. Launched in 2005, ‘Aromaitch’ and ‘Aroma Pre-itch’ have helped thousands of horses feel comfortable in their own skin during the summer, and successfully prevented the self-mutilation & destruction of their manes and tails. www.equinat.com
April 2014 | 35
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Straight from the horse’s mouth By Kathy Carter W
e scour the equestrian world for news and views on nutrition and veterinary matters, to give you the latest information. As spring approaches, this month we bring you the latest news on laminitis issues. Best foot forward At a recent conference, an American vet showcased the use of a cast, similar to that used on humans to stabilise bones, in the treatment of laminitis in horses. Raul Bras, of the internationally renowned Rood & Riddle Equine Hospital in Kentucky, reported that ‘mechanical collapse’ of the coffin bone is a well-known complication of laminitis, but that foot casts might improve horses’ survival rates. Casts aim to reduce the horse’s body weight to lessen the load on the foot, ensuring weight bearing is shared by the sole and frog. Seven years’ worth of Hospital records revealed that 47% of the horses utilising casts survived; a better-than-expected statistical outcome. Raul Bras was speaking at the Sixth International Equine Conference on Laminitis and Diseases of the Foot.
Cell block M According to a recently-published study in The Journal of Equine Veterinary Science (‘Using stem cells in clinical cases’, October 2013), the Rood & Riddle Hospital has researched stem cell therapy to assist laminitic horses. Vet Vernon Dryden and his team believe that because Mesenchymal Stem Cells (MSC) can differentiate into multiple types of cells, including bone and connective tissue, they can be used to repair laminar damage in hooves, potentially reducing the numbers of euthanised horses. Studying the Hospital’s use of MS cells stored at its umbilical cord blood bank for a first treatment, followed by bone-marrow-derived cells from the horse’s own body for following treatments, Dryden found that 70% of laminitis treatments were successful, and the sooner the MSC treatment, the better. Furthermore, the younger the horse, the greater the chance of success. Further studies are under way. Classification of groups American veterinary researchers at Ohio State Avoid feeding less than 1% of a horse’s body weight in forage daily
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University have classed laminitis causes into four main groups; the first is ‘classic’ carbohydrate overload, eating too much grainbased food or excessive spring grass that is high in grass sugars. The second group concerns clinical issues such as fevers or infections that lead to a laminitic episode; while the third cause occurs when an injured horse puts all its weight on a noninjured limb (commonly after surgery), resulting in circulatory issues. The fourth group is linked to insulin resistance as a part of a Spring grass can be high in grass sugars metabolic syndrome. Treatment, including nutrition, have the [management] tools to use if you are hoofcare and medication, should differ according restricting feed, hay, and grass? And how will to each cause. The veterinary team revealed that you monitor weight loss and gain? in their experience, laminitis is the second most common reason for equine euthanasia, behind colic. Here are some of her tips: 1. Overweight horses don’t need extra calories; avoid feeding overweight horses Dietary matters concentrates with high digestible energy The director of nursing for the University of content. Rather, consider a balancer that Pennsylvania School of Veterinary Medicine, provides required daily protein, vitamins, Jennifer Wrigley, and minerals without excessive calories. showcased nutrition 2. When selecting forage, aim for a hay with tips for owners of lower ‘nonstructural carbohydrate’ (NSC) laminitic horses values - these values include levels of simple at the 2013 sugars, starch, and fructans. Have hay analysed International to ascertain this. [Editor’s note - In the UK, Equine Conference Dengie Horse Feeds offers this service.] on Laminitis and Diseases of the Foot 3. Feed the recommended amount of hard feed - not above or below. in Florida. 4. Avoid feeding less than 1% of a horse’s As a horse body weight in forage daily. This can lead to owner, she suggests digestive disturbances. asking oneself key 5. Use a slow-feeder haynet to make hay last questions: Are you longer - consider a grazing muzzle for feeding the correct horses on restricted pasture. food, and correct Look out for more advice and info at amounts of feed Harvested stem cells. Credit: Quy Biosciences Ltd www.equi-ads.com and hay? Do you
Petplan Equine Area Festivals Celebrate Seniors
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etplan Equine, and British Dressage are introducing of a Senior Horse Award at this year’s Petplan Equine Area Festival Championships which take place at Gloucestershire’s Hartpury College from the 9th April to the 13th April alongside the NAF Five Star Winter Dressage Championships. ‘The Petplans’ are constantly evolving to ensure they remain the country’s foremost competition platform for the amateur dressage rider. At this year’s Championships, in celebration of older horses and in recognition of the important contribution they make to the sport, the Senior Horse Award will be given to the highest placed horse aged 15 and over in both the first round and the finals in each class. British Dressage chief executive, Amanda Bond told Equi-Ads: “Increasingly we see horses competing well into their teens and twenties in dressage. Many come from other disciplines as well as those who’ve had high profile dressage careers – it’s often these schoolmasters who give the amateur rider the important feel and confidence that can only come from riding a horse who knows his job. In turn, the new rider gives the horse an active retirement without the pressure of top competition. When Petplan suggested offering an award for Senior horses at the Area Festival Championships we thought it was a great way of celebrating the circuit’s seniors.” While many horses are treated as ‘veterans’ from the age of 15 or 16 onwards, in recognition that horses now live active lives for much longer than they once did, Petplan Equine offers full illness as well as injury cover for horses up to the age of 25 providing the horse is insured with the insurer prior to its 20th birthday. Now in its 15th year, The Petplan Equine Area Festivals is one of UKequestrian sport’s longest running sponsorships. The series comprises 18 competitions held between August and November giving the amateur dressage rider the opportunity to qualify at some of the UK’s premier equestrian centres prior to competing for Championship honours at the finals the following April. For information about the Petplan Equine Area Festivals visitwww.petplanequine.co.uk/events. www.equi-ads.com
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Stomach Woes! Impaction and Coca Cola! Richard Knight, BVetNed MRCVS
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immy, a five-year six-months old thoroughbred X gelding present to our practice in January 2013 with a rather peculiar history. Jane, had owned him for six months and he was being schooled and hacked by her daughter. All had been absolutely fine for the first three months with Timmy performing well in all forms of his work. As time passed however they began to notice that Timmy’s behaviour was changing and he was starting to lose weight. We were called out to examine Timmy, and Jane was keen to take a blood sample to look for underlying disease and discuss changing Timmy’s diet to help with his weight loss. On clinical exam Timmy was noted to be quiet, alert and responsive. Jane said his demeanour had deteriorated recently and he now seemed quite miserable. His body condition score (fat coverage) was acceptable, but it was noted he had very little muscle along his top-line, shoulders and gluteals. All of Timmy’s vital parameters (heart rate, respiration rate, gut sounds, temperature) were within normal limits, and an oral examination of his mouth revealed no dental disease. I discussed the possible causes of Timmy’s clinical signs and history, and advised that I felt that a blood sample was not indicated given Timmy appeared to be systemically well despite his poor muscling. I advised Jane that I suspected Gastric Ulcers to be the one of the most likely cause of Timmy’s clinical signs, which could be diagnosed using Gastroscopy. Gastroscopy is a procedure when a thin, flexible camera called an Endoscope is used to examine the inside of the stomach. Endoscopes are fibre-optic cameras, which come complete with their own built in light source, water-spray to clear the camera lens, and biopsy port (in case any samples of the stomach wall need to be taken for laboratory analysis). In horses, due to the design of their throat, it is actually far easier to insert the Gastroscope via the nose rather than the mouth. Once passed from the nose into the Oesophagus (foodpipe) the gastroscope is advanced until it reaches the stomach. Gastric Endoscopes are three metres long, which sounds a huge distance, but in large horses we need every centimetre to be able to examine the whole stomach!! Once in the stomach an air-pump is used to gently inflate the stomach, allowing the folds in the stomach wall to be smoothed out and providing a much better view. Gastroscopy is performed under sedation to allow easy and safe passage of the endoscope, www.equi-ads.com
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and so as not to distress the horse during the procedure. In most horses gastroscopy is well tolerated, with horses only showing an awareness of the gastroscope as it is passed through the nose. It is vital that before the gastroscopy procedure horses are starved for at least 12 hours. This provides sufficient time for the stomach to empty, and allows the mucosa (lining) of the stomach to be visualised in its entirety. When we arrived to gastroscope Timmy’s stomach all was proceeding normally until the camera entered the stomach...at which point we found it full of food. Jane was sure that Timmy had not managed to eat anything since the previous evening, which was a little puzzling! We continued to inflate the stomach to try to find out how it was Timmy had managed to sneak a cheeky meal. As the stomach was gradually inflated to provide some more room for the endoscope it became clear that there was more to Timmy’s full stomach than met the eye, and we came to the diagnosis that Timmy had a rare Gastric Impaction. Impactions are where food material collects in the digestive tract and forms blockages. In Timmy’s case the impaction was grapefruit sized and comprised of firm, dry food material and mucous. It was lying in the bottom of his stomach obstructing his Pylorus (the outflow tract from the stomach). Gastric Impactions are rare in horses, and their cause is largely unknown. They may occur spontaneously as a primary disease or more commonly result from a secondary process. Such secondary diseases include gastric ulceration, pyloric fibrosis (scarring), dental disease, inadequate water provision or improper feeding. Some gastric impactions present as mild colic which does not resolve to medical treatment, but Timmy was not showing colic signs. Having diagnosed Timmy’s condition thoughts turn to treatment. Gastric impactions can be difficult to treat. The stomach can be accessed surgically, but opening the stomach to remove the impaction carries major risks including poor post-operative stomach motility and subsequent recurrence of the impaction. The stomach can be filled with saline during surgery and the impaction broken down by gently squeezing it.
In Timmy’s case we decided to use a less invasive form of treatment; Coca-Cola via stomach tube! This is a treatment which I had seen used on two ponies at university, and works by breaking down and dissolving the impacted food material. This treatment involved passing a naso-gastric stomach tube and filling Timmy’s stomach with 4L of caffeine free Cola every day a week. Following a week of Coca-Cola treatment Timmy was re-gastroscoped and to our delight the impaction had reduced in size by 50%. It was decided to continue the Coca-Cola lavage for another seven days to completely break down the impaction. Thankfully this second course of Timmy’s somewhat unconventional treatment proved totally successful and upon his second gastroscopy his stomach was completely empty. Having removed the impaction we were able to view the whole of the inside of Timmy’s stomach, but fortunately no ulceration was found. We passed the camera of the gastroscope around to inspect Timmy’s pylorus and again found no abnormalities. Following successful treatment Jane gradually brought Timmy back into full work. His behaviour had improved enormously! Timmy was no longer grumpy and resentful of work and was described as a changed horse. This just goes to show how uncomfortable he must have been carrying that huge impaction around with him! Due to his significant muscle loss Timmy was also given a specific muscle supplement, called Equitop Myoplast. This works by providing a large amount of muscle-building Amino Acids which the body uses during exercise to quickly increase muscle fibre size, strength and quality. A combination of regular work and Myoplast turned Timmy around entirely and just goes to show how the suspicions of an attentive owner can lead to the diagnosis of a previously unsuspected disease and the implementation of a successful treatment plan. If anything is to taken from this story, except for Timmy being unlucky(!) it is that no change in behaviour should be ignored. While gastric impactions are very rare, gastric ulceration is very common, and will present with clinical signs similar to Timmy’s. Classically horses will show lethargy, quiet or grumpy behaviour, exercise intolerance, weight loss and mild colic signs. As gastric ulcers can only be diagnosed using gastrocopy it is always worth asking your vet for advice! April 2014 | 37
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There’s a better way to keep horses calm T he creators of Vetrofen and Vetroflex, Animalife understand that horses and ponies require different nutritional support at varying stages throughout their life and for this reason they have developed a brand new Vetrocalm Lifestage range. Now available in four targeted formulations, the Vetrocalm Lifestage range has been designed by leading nutritionists to help support the needs of equines throughout their life. Vetrocalm provides horse owners with a simple method of feeding specialised ingredients that can help horses maintain a relaxed outlook, deal with stressful situations and perform to their optimum. Vetrocalm Intense Instant is a twin pack of 25ml syringes that provides a natural formulation designed to support a calm and relaxed outlook in horses prone to tension, nerves, excitement or anxiety. The instant formulation does not contain Tryptophan and is ideal for using on competition days, or when equines are faced with particularly intense circumstances. Vetrocalm Growing is a daily nutritional formulation designed to support young and inexperienced equines as they develop and mature. Specifically created to help maintain a calm and relaxed frame of mind when horses and ponies are faced with new situations, whether it is training at home, or during competitions. Vetrocalm Healthy is the ideal choice for horse owners wishing to maintain a happy and relaxed equine on a daily basis. The natural formulation has been manufactured to support day-to-day life challenges and encourage a calm attitude in training, handling and competition environments. Vetrocalm Senior has been formulated to support the requirements of older horses that are prone to anxiety and tension. As horses mature they may require a higher level of nutritional assistance, particularly during periods of stress and excitement. Vetrocalm Senior has been designed to support this, using natural ingredients. Vetrocalm Intense Instant is priced at £12.99 for a twin pack of 25ml syringes. Vetrocalm Growing, Healthy and Senior are available in 300g or 900g tubs, priced at £24.99 and £54.99 respectively. Call 0845 365 0050 to find your local Animalife Accredited Retailer or order online at www.animalife. co.uk (subject to delivery charges).
Next Month Laminitis PPID/Insulin Keep it calm Training Aids Summer/Seasonal rugs Acupucture Feeding the Cushings horse Cross Country Veterinary Plus news and much more besides… Copy deadline APRIL 10 38 | April 2014
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t is water resistant, breathable and windproof but the Brita jacket has plenty more on offer, too. Its design features a tie waist which adds a touch of glamour to the look. Available in three colours: Forest, Marine and Sky Sizes XS-XL. Material: Waterproof Polyester RRP £182. See your local stockist.
Saddle slip and lameness!
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he world’s top scientists will be coming together to share their knowledge at the second Saddle Research Trust International Conference, to be held in Cambridge on 29th November 2014 at Anglia Ruskin University. This prestigious event, which is supported by World Horse Welfare, will examine the latest scientific research to promote equine welfare and performance and hear how new results affect horses and riders. It’s a unique opportunity for vets, therapists, trainers, riders and horse owners to gain collective access to the knowledge and opinions of internationally renowned experts and to participate in panel debate. The morning programme, Chaired by Dr Charlotte Nevison, Director of Research Students, Faculty of Science and Technology, Anglia Ruskin University, will explore the impact that horse, saddle and rider have on each other. Presentations will be given by Anne Bondi, Director of the SRT and Professor Hilary Clayton Chair of Equine Sports Medicine at Michigan State University’s College of Veterinary Medicine. The pivotal sessions will be from Dr Sue Dyson, Head of Clinical Orthopaedics at the Centre for Equine Studies at the Animal Health Trust and Line Greve, PhD Student who will also present the results of a new lameness and saddle slip study, building on research conducted last year. It confirms that hindlimb lameness is the most important cause of saddle slip and reveals a startling frequency of lameness in the general sports horse population. The afternoon session, Chaired by John McEwen, BEF Director of Equine Sports Science and Medicine, will examine the kinematics of
the equine back and neck (Professor Christian Peham, Leader of the Movement Science Group, University of Veterinary Medicine, Vienna), the effects of saddle design and function (Dr Michael Weishaupt, Head of Equine Sports Medicine, University of Zurich) and influence of the rider (Professor Lars Roepstorff, Department of Veterinary Anatomy and Physiology, Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences) and practical application of science (Professor René van Weeren, Head of Equine Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Utrecht). Richard Davison, Olympic dressage rider and former BEF World Class Performance Manager will give his personal view of research before the full panel makes itself available for questions and discussion from the floor. World Horse Welfare Deputy Chief Executive, Tony Tyler says: “World Horse Welfare is a practical and forward-thinking charity that believes in using scientific evidence to help guide its work. We are very pleased to support this prestigious conference that aims to apply the latest scientific research to the issues that surround saddles and their effects on both horse and rider. We frequently see welfare problems caused by a lack of understanding of saddlery and hope that this conference will improve the knowledge of all that participate.” Advance tickets are £100, £75 for SRT members and students or £125 on the door. You can take advantage of 15% discount if you book by 1st June. Email research@saddleresearchtrust.com or telephone 07775 912202 to reserve your place. To find out more and to download a copy of the full programme visit www.saddleresearchtrust.com www.equi-ads.com
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Halliday-Sharp maintains perfect start with barroca d’Alva CIC** victory A
second CIC** victory in the space of two weeks continued Liz Halliday-Sharp’s perfect start to the new international eventing season at Barroca d’Alva in Portugal. Fresh from their triumph together at Herdade Vale Sabroso, the Britishbased Californian and Blackie (Fernhill by Night) once again proved the class of a near 40-strong field by leading throughout and finishing on their impressive Dressage score of 42.7. A fast and error-free Cross Country run saw the pair head into the deciding Show Jumping round with a rail in hand. And another faultless display from Blackie – his second in less than a week – ensured their rivals would be afforded no second chances. Victory also capped a triumphant anniversary for the duo who won Barroca’s CIC* event 12 months ago. Meanwhile Cooley (HHS Cooley) was also in excellent form en route to third overall, not far behind his USA High Performance Training Listed stablemate. Although disappointed with their Dressage score, Halliday-Sharp still entered the Cross Country run aware that a strong performance could see Cooley challenging for a place on the podium. 0.4 time penalties from his round certainly kept them in the hunt, but only a perfect Show Jumping performance would offer any real hope of moving higher than fifth. Fortunately Cooley delivered, and when those ahead faltered it was he and Halliday-Sharp who picked up the pieces thanks to a faultless clear round. “I really couldn’t have hoped for a better start to the season,” said Halliday-Sharp. “Once again Blackie demonstrated what a world class horse he is by performing faultlessly over the Cross Country and Show Jumping courses and finishing on his Dressage score. There are actually some bits and pieces in the Dressage test that could have been better, so with that in mind it was really encouraging to still be in the lead by over four marks after that phase. All in all I can’t really fault his performance over the two weeks in Portugal. He really has come out fighting this year
magic wound dressing! W
hen leading event rider Karen Dixon’s Clean wounds youngster, Merlin, suffered an injury in the field, she never thought a year on she would still be looking for a product to help him heal completely. She was distraught when, in April 2012 the two-year-old bay gelding suffered horrific injuries to his hind leg after jumping out of the field over a post and rail fence and getting his rug caught up on some wire. Like a horrific scene from War Horse, Merlin ran from the field dragging the wire and broken fence which caused his injuries as they wrapped around him Finally healing nicely and cut into his leg. After getting loose on a nearby road, Karen eventually found Merlin in a field stuck and drowning in a puddle of human waste. After freeing the wounded and frightened horse, Karen spent the next year trying all sorts of sprays and creams that were recommended by her vet, but none of them completely healed Merlin’s wound. It wasn’t until a trip to Your Horse Live this year where Karen was taking part in the demonstrations that she found out about Equi-Med Ag and their ‘magic’ wound dressing. The activated carbon and silver layer which is used in the wound dressing has antibacterial properties drawing out and killing the bacteria when it is applied directly to the wound. After just a few weeks Karen was amazed at the results. After only a few weeks of using the dressing, the wound is already looking much better and I am amazed at how quickly it has started to heal. I wish I had used it sooner! It is so simple to use and so effective, I am hoping it will help reduce the amount of scar tissue.” Karen is now hoping to produce Merlin ready to event next year as a four-year-old and aiming to qualify for the young horse class at Osberton Horse Trials. For more information on all of the Equi-Med Ag products, how they work and what other things they can be used for please visit www. EquiMedAg.co.uk or call on 0191 5118323 or 0777 5577165. www.equi-ads.com
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and I have high expectations for him in the future. “I was also really happy with Cooley’s performance and thrilled to finish in the top three. I actually think his Dressage score was a bit harsh, so we lost some marks there, but fortunately he’s such a powerhouse over the jumps that I was always confident we’d have a chance at the end as long as we didn’t make any mistakes. “There’s an incredible amount of effort that goes on behind the scenes and in that respect I really need to thank all of my hard working team at Chailey Stud for their continued help, as well as my sponsors for their support. Hopefully we can maintain our excellent start to 2014!” Rather than remain in Portugal for one final week of international eventing, Halliday-Sharp, Blackie and Cooley are all returning to Chailey Stud ahead of USA Team Training.
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21/03/2014 12:25
News Xxxxxxxxxx & Views
EQUIDO – SEEING THE WARNING SIGNS… By Morag Higgins WESI MRPCH BHSAI BscES W
e have been covering in articles gone by how we as horse owners should always be aware of the subtle signs that our horses are sending us. This usually applies to health issues where you should be so in tune with your horse that you can spot when something is not quite right often before there are any clinical signs. It can then lead into your groundwork and handling of the horse where you are picking up subtle clues and correcting your horse before they can make a mistake. However few of us take this into the saddle and this is where a lot of us meet problems and so seek professional help. It usually doesn’t take much for an instructor to point out what the horse is trying to tell the rider and get the two of them back into harmony with each other, but sometimes we as riders should apply this ethos of picking up the warning signs before a situation arises. More often than not we can get fixated on a task or an exercise and so we miss many subtle clues that our horse may be giving us that he or she is either not quite ready to carry out that exercise or that this is maybe not the best day for the task you have chosen to do. This happened recently on our yard. Two of the clients wanted to go a hack, but due to the weather the horses had not been ridden for quite a number of days and although they are turned out for most of the day they were all full of the joys of spring. To top it all it was quite a windy day which was adding to the excitement factor. I said I would go along with them to make sure they were ok and decided to take my oldest horse and most trained to be the sensible one. I took into account the factors involved and who was going on the hack and figured out the safest route. The other two horses were full of beans, something their owners didn’t pick up on straight away. We warmed up in the school and everybody seemed fine. We started out on the hack with my horse in lead, a situation one of the other horses was not happy with because he likes to be in front but for safety sake he had to content himself with second place. This left the third horse at the back, a position he hates to be in but there was no other way we could safely work it. There was another sign missed. We were about halfway along the grassy lane when the rider at the back spoke up and said her horse was really getting wound up. I made the decision to turn back as I knew ahead of us were a couple of really spooky obstacles which would just feed the fire of excitement building in the two horses. At last a sign that was spotted! I knew that turning the horses around would be a cue for hysterical behaviour so we tried to make it as subtle as possible, I turned my horse one foot at a time, pausing to chat and to the other riders and trying to make it all relaxed as each of us turned our horses. It was all going well till the horse in second saw an opportunity to get past my horse and without warning took off bucking past me. This triggered absolute hysteria from the third horse whilst mine did beautiful canter on the spot as I turned him to face the hedge and to block the path of the horse behind me giving his rider time to regain control. I could not do anything about the rider now halfway down the track but she had regained control enough to have her horse halfpass his way back home, I told her to just keep going as I brought my horse back towards the poor rider behind me. I am very proud of my old boy because despite the fact that he wanted to gallop off after the other horse, he knew he needed to keep the situation under control. I quickly assessed the horse behind me, he was literally shaking from head to foot with excitement and half rearing (something he never does), I knew he was building for a massive buck and bolt and knew that he would literally run through me and my old boy. His rider was very nervous (quite rightly) so I kept my voice as calm as possible (despite the fact that my own horse was barely containing himself ) and told the rider to dismount. I knew that in the worst case scenario if the horse got away from the rider on the ground he would only run home (we were not on a road) but if the rider had stayed on board he would have bolted and she may have come off. This is a judgement call and one which many of us wouldn’t make. So often we are told that “the horse must not win” and we “must stay on board” well quite frankly this is stupidity. There are circumstances where the safest place is on the ground where you can go to the horse’s head and calm them down. True there are times when you should stay on the horses back but the skill is knowing which is which. The horse is not trying to win anything. The excitement levels had built to a point where this horse had no idea what to do, he needed a human to give him guidance and his rider could do that better on the ground. I kept my horse in front of her blocking the path and doing slow full pass along the grass track. The rider finally managed to calm her horse down where she could lead him but I also knew that this horse was paranoid about things behind him so I made a judgement call to let her pass me and put my horse behind her instead of in front. This is a decision I made because I understood the horse. As soon as I was behind him he calmed down and his rider was able www.equi-ads.com
Equi_Ads_Apr_EW_rev.indd 41
to lead him back to the stable. The other rider had managed to get her horse back under control and was waiting for us at the end of the pathway. When we got back we all discussed the warning signs that were missed. 1. The horses had not been hacked out for several weeks. 2. They had not been ridden for several days. 3. There were some new and spooking obstacles along even the safest route to take. 4. It was a very windy day making everyone excited. 5. The warm weather made it feel like spring and all of the horses were wound up. 6. The horses were shedding their winter coats making them itchy and irritable. 7. Two of the riders had not ridden for a while. Seven points of warning that were not thought of because the humans had become fixated with completing the task of hacking out, irrespective of circumstances. Then there were the warning signs the horses were giving. 1. 2. 3. 4.
They were full of beans and irritable even in their stables. They were on their toes warming up. They were getting agitated about their position in the ride. The slightest movement or noise was reacted to.
The horses were trying to say that yes they would enjoy a hack but they way they were feeling it would have to be at a gallop with some airs above ground! Something that neither rider was prepared for. I am glad that I thought carefully about what horse I took as lead file. I really wanted my intermediate horse to be lead but if he had been there it would have been carnage as he would not have kept himself under control and it would have been mayhem. Instead I took my old boy because I knew that even under pressure he knew when he had to keep a sensible head and do as he was told, the saving grace in this situation. The other point is that the riders involved realised that things were going wrong and should they continue it would end badly. That is why the decision was made to turn back. We weren’t “giving in to our horses” we were making a safety call. The rider who was run off with got her horse back under control quickly but knew that she would not be able to make him stand still to wait on us, so she had to keep moving as safely as she could till he was calm enough to stop. The other rider made the right decision to dismount and give her horse a visual focal point to regain his senses. It was these choices that prevented the whole situation from being a major incident. However, if the warning signs had been read correctly from the start the whole situation could have been avoided. So, make sure you are paying attention to the warning signs, you are not woosing out or being a chicken, no, you are being sensible and keeping you and your horse safe. April 2014 | 41
21/03/2014 10:45
News
Neptune Collonges won £1.3m W
ell known for winning the 2012 Grand National, the charismatic grey, Neptune Collonges is now enjoying a new challenge in the dressage arena. Here we find out more about his great performances. After an incredibly successful racing career Neptune Collonges has transferred his winning ways into a different discipline and is now treading the boards in the world of dressage. Known at home as “Nipper”, he was retired straight after his incredible Grand National win to his owner John Hales’ yard in Shropshire. John’s daughter Lisa is now competing the talented 12-year-old who remains in excellent condition. Here Jonathan Nelson ( JN) of Protexin catches up with Lisa (LH) to find out more about Nipper’s progress in his new career. JN: Tell us a bit more about Nipper. LH: Nipper is just a star and we like to believe he is infamous in the racing world for his many race victories and £1.3m in winnings, including the 2012 Aintree Grand National. Since then he has been based with us at Shaw Farm Stud in Shropshire learning his new trade in dressage with a little show jumping, my favourite discipline. Nipper is an easy ride with a great temperament despite his chasing ability and he has made a remarkable transition since he has been back at home. He has been entered this year for three unaffiliated dressage competitions with me in the saddle, of which he has won two and was second in the third. We have tried show jumping but his jump is too exuberant as he wants to jump every fence like it is a chase fence and at 12 I don’t think we will school that out of him!
JN: Has Protexin helped in his retirement? LH: The Acid Ease, Gut Balancer and Quick Fix are all used as part of our management of different horses here at Shaw Farm Stud. They are all excellent products that do “exactly what they say on the tin” so to speak. Horses coming back from intensive training can be anxious and uptight following the change of environment, training and feeding. Nipper is certainly very settled and is less stressed when he is on Protexin and we have peace of mind that his gut is as optimised as it can be. JN: Has it been difficult retraining Nipper to dressage? LH: During his career Nipper was also third to Denman and Kauto Star in what was possibly the strongest Cheltenham Gold Cup ever run; so it is even more impressive that he does have other gears! The most difficult transition has been developing his gait in canter. Racehorses tend not to sit back on their hocks as their movement is more forward pulling themselves along by comparison, so we have had to work hard on this.
LH: Shaw Farm Stud is a more relaxed environment than a full-on race yard that he was in when racing. He is easy to handle in and around his box, but you have to respect his space. He’s ridden and hacked normally, goes on the walker with the others and is equally happy to be ridden in the school. He owes the yard nothing, has nothing to prove and deserves a little relaxation and TLC in his retirement. The Protexin Equine Premium Range comprises of five products; Gut Balancer, Acid Ease, Quick Fix, Recover Aid and Gut Bind. For more information please contact Protexin on 01460 243230 or visit www. equinepremium.com.
JN: How has Nipper’s management changed since he has been back at home?
(continued from page 1) scheme, Hoof, and is aimed at both new and former riders. Martin Channings local tack shop did a roaring trade throughout the afternoon, whilst Blossom the 15.2hh dapple grey mare soaked up masses of attention from numerous visitors. Louise Matthews was thrilled with the positive response the open day received, especially the new TBTR courses which saw plenty of visitors signing up to take part at the weekend. “The day was fabulous and we have had some really nice comments. Francis was a big draw, giving a great talk on his riding background and future ambitions, and we have already had more bookings for lessons on Henry (the mechanical horse), who is here until 22 March” commented Louise who has run the East Sussex based riding school for over 10 years. Francis gave a demonstration on Henry the mechanical horse and even
encouraged several first time riders on board for some helpful tips, “All in all the day went really well, Louise did a brilliant job organising it. It was great watching someone who had never sat on a horse before and to be able to show them how much fun can be had riding and enjoying the sport we all love.” “I had no choice but to ride as a child as my mum had a riding school, so I am a huge supporter of local equestrian centres and what they do. Grove did a cracking job for all levels of rider who came yesterday”, enthused the 2014 CICO squad member. For anyone interested in taking part in Grove Farm Riding Schools latest round of Take Back the Reins, more information can be found at the website www.grovefarmridingschool.com via email info@grovefarmridingschool.com or by calling 01797 280362 / 07760 126145.
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21/03/2014 10:45
News
Jump Training Championship - Shropshire rider wins event against the odds!
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ewport-based Camilla Hardie was crowned the new BE100 Champion at Baileys Horse Feeds Jump Training Championships at the sun-drenched series finale at Warwickshire College’s Moreton Morrell centre on Sunday 9th March.
Camilla, who works in property and is 34 years old, dominated the Championships with her own Dutch-bred gelding, Beau Jangles IV, receiving a score of 10.5 for style and posting clear show jumping rounds in a very competitive field of riders. She
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was judged at the Championships by popular BE Accredited Coach David Sheerin and International Event rider Nick Gauntlett. The road to the Championships hasn’t been smooth for Camilla as Beau Jangles IV has been out of action with an Achilles tendon injury after he was unfortunately kicked by another horse on Christmas day in 2012. Camilla explained: “There was a chance that he would never be ridden again so to have him jumping like he has been recently is fantastic. Winning the Championship with him is definitely not something I could ever have pictured.” Commenting on her Championship experience Camilla said: “The competition is such a great format; it’s so encouraging plus the coaching is of such high quality. We really benefited from the feedback we got in the qualifier [Rodbaston College in January] and then received some more really useful comments in the Championships from Nick and David. “The prize package from Baileys and BE was also really impressive; I love the smart rug and can’t wait
for the clinic with the legendary Blyth Tait. In the meantime, I will definitely be making the most of the training and feed vouchers.” This educational show jumping competition offers riders a packed training experience which starts off with guided course walks and warmup sessions with BE Accredited Coaches. Competitors then jump the course once, without guidance, and then jump again after receiving feedback about their initial round from the Coaches. Jane Buchan, Baileys Marketing Manager told Equi-Ads: “It was great to meet so many riders at the Championships; the series has definitely grown in stature and recognition over the past couple of years, with riders recognising its value for pre-season training as well as for young horses, young riders and new combinations. The standard has gone up and up too which hopefully means riders’ training is paying off !”
For more information or to enter visit www.northcotestud.co.uk or contact Northcote Stud Equestrian Centre on 01254 245116.
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Less expensive than other ULC products. If you think your horse has a digestive problem, try a free sample and see the difference in a week. Testimonials available. Tel: 01432 851111 Email: ron@ronfieldsnutrition.co.uk www.equi-ads.com
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April 2014 | 43
21/03/2014 10:45
Stud Profile
Stud UK Euro producing quality showjumpers in Kent
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t all started 12 years ago when Caroline Phjillips moved to Shelvin Farm she owned four horses, she was successful at buying and selling and 12 years later now has 120 horses! She has always had an interest in breeding and met Gerald Lenearts through Guy Williams in Belgium when sourcing new stock to buy. Gerald owns Stud Farm Overis. Caroline purchased her first stallion, Branco Van Overis, a Belgian warmblood (sire to 90 foals here at Stud UK Euro ) from him and a few geldings to produce. Over the next few years relationships grew and with funding from a generous neighbour she started to build a Stud to 18 mares. Her husband Rupert started to show a great interest in the breeding and started to develop the Stud, managing the mares, foaling and care of the youngsters whilst Caroline concentrated on the selling and producing. She started to gain a close business working relationship with Guy Williams and the stud (now named Stud UK Euro) began to get a very good name for producing top quality warmblood showjumpers, she was mainly selling to UK and Europe but over the recent years as sold to Malta and America. In 2010 Caroline purchased Diamonte Darco from a local breeder, she showed phenomenal talent. After showing her to Guy Williams he purchased 50% from Caroline. The Stud produced her for two years and Guy’s partner Rebecca competed her, then Guy took the reins for Foxhunter 2nd Rounds at Hickstead. She was then sold for a considerable sum.
She then qualified with her new owner, Graham Lovegrove at Scope Festival and went from strength to strength. The following spring she was doing Reserve Nations Cup and placed third at CSI5* 150m class. She was then sold to America. During February 2013 Caroline had a terrible accident, whilst breaking a four year old she had a serious fall, the youngster reared and landed on her breaking her back in three places.After two long operations doctors feared she would never walk again as her nerves were so badly damaged. But after four months in hospital Caroline returned home and started the long road to recovery. A year later and sheis back on a horse, albeit our lovely mare Anaconda who is an angel and she is almost back to walking perfectly. It won’t be long before Caroline is back in the show ring again. Her recovery has been helped by watching the infamous gelding Zaire by Indoctro produced by Caroline herself climb the rankings. Zaire, a three year old purchased at the Panhof Horse Auction in Belgium in 2007 for very little money. He took two weeks to break, was very sharp. Loose jumping at three years he jumped 2m40 over a 1m10, it was then that Caroline knew she had a real jumper on her hands. He was produced by Emily Elliott and Caroline and then was sent to Mark Williams at five years where he was fully produced and competed. At five and six years he was being placed first in Newcomers at many shows. Placed second at National 1.40m Open. In 2013 he came back to Kent via Stud UK Euro stables to be competed by Guy Williams. Arena UK, Sept 2013 was his first show with
Zaire
Zaire
Branco Van Overis
Diamonte Darco his new rider Guy. And he came second in the Grand Prix winning £14,000. He hit the rankings list at 40 in the U.K. within six weeks. He is now jumping World Cups and is off to Spain for six weeks under the masterful wisdom of Guy Williams. He has just won the 1.45m and 1.60m at CS15* Bordeaux. Zaire and Diamonte Darco are Caroline’s most successful horses to date. She has now bred over sixty youngsters and sold over 300 horses in total over the last 10 years. Stud UK Euro is now a well established Stud, known for producing top quality competition horses and Caroline’s reputation and courage goes before her. Determination and confidence has got her to where she is now and proves that hard work certainly pays off and an excellent eye for talent. Zaire will make it to the top! Branco 10yrs
Zaire
Zaire with Emily
Zaire
44 | April 2014
Equi_Ads_Apr_EW_rev.indd 44
Zaire 5yrs www.equi-ads.com
21/03/2014 10:45
Feeding Xxxxxxxxxx • Healthcare
How best to reduce the water soluble carbohydrate content of hay
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urrent advice is that laminitis prone horses and ponies should be fed a diet that contains <12% sugars (WSC) and starch. This can be very difficult to achieve especially as UK hays and haylages in the UK often contain far higher levels of WSC, in fact hays sampled last year had an average of 20.6% (DM) WSC. Recently published work with Annette Longland (Equine Nutrition and Livestock services) on how best to reduce water soluble carbohydrates in hay has suggested that soaking for 16 hours in tepid water is the most effective practical method. However, further research in collaboration with ELNS and the Royal Agricultural University College (RAUC) suggests that the bacterial load of soaked hay increases with time. Therefore the present recommendation for soaking in warmer weather conditions is to soak for no longer than six hours. Studies are ongoing in this area to characterise the bacterial load in soaked hay with the results being available provided soon. Defining the role of insulin in the development of laminitis
Horses and ponies that have abnormal insulin responses to a glucose challenge, and/or are persistently hyperinsulinaemic (have a high level of insulin in the blood) may be at increased risk of laminitis. Our recent work in the Australia and the USA has confirmed that there are breed and age differences in the way that horses and ponies respond to the same dietary challenge, with ponies and Andalusians being less insulin sensitive than Standardbreds and older horses less so than younger horses. The Consortium is currently working with several groups around the world to try and understand; • How best to evaluate whether an individual has such an abnormal insulin response • Why such abnormal responses might increase the risk of laminitis in some animals • Why some animals with these disturbances are at increased risk and yet others do not appear to be.
The role of blood supply
Disturbances with some aspects of the blood supply to or from the hoof may be involved in laminitis and it may be that those animals that are at increased risk of certain types of laminitis have some underlying problem with how their blood vessels (and in particular the cells lining these vessels ie the endothelium) behave in specific circumstances. A PhD programme in collaboration with the Royal Veterinary College (RVC) is looking at this aspect in more detail. The relationship with Obesity
Whilst obese animals may be at increased risk of laminitis not all fat horses or ponies will develop laminitis and healthy conditioned animals can also develop laminitis. We are working with researchers all over the world to try and understand the effects that obesity has on the metabolism of horses and ponies and how this links with the risk of
laminitis. Plus most importantly how we can safely help owners to restore and keep their horses and ponies at a healthy bodyweight. REFERENCES Longland A, Barfoot C, & Harris P, (2014) Effect of water temperature and agitation on loss of water –soluble carbohydrates and protein from grass hay: implications for equine feeding management. Veterinary Record 174 68. Bamford NJ, Potter SJ, Harris PA, Bailey SR. (2014). Breed differences in insulin sensitivity and insulinemic responses to oral glucose in horses and ponies of moderate body condition score. Domestic Animal Endocrinology (In Press). Rapson, J., H. C. Schott, H.C., B. D. Nielsen, L. J. McCutcheon, P. Harris, and R. J. Geor. 2011. Effects of age and diet on glycemic and insulinemic responses of horses to a concentrate meal. Proc. Am. Coll. Vet. Intern. Med. Forum, Denver, CO.
CHRONIC NECK WOUND WOULDN’T HEAL!
W
hen Nicola Lawlor’s pony sustained a nasty neck wound on a tree the vet was called immediately. She followed the vet’s advice but became concerned after nine days as the wound was healing too slowly. She decided to try Activate® wound dressings as they were recommended for use on chronic wounds that were not responding to treatment. She told Equi-Ads “Within a week the difference was remarkable, ten days later the wound had healed and the hair was growing back well.” Activate® is an activated carbon dressing for cleansing and healing open and infected wounds from Robinsons Healthcare. The multi-layered dressing incorporates activated carbon which has been found to attract and absorb bacteria into the dressing keeping contamination away from the wound surface. The dressing promotes rapid wound closure and improves normal healing process of wounds susceptible to exuberant granulation (proud flesh). The dressings are sterile, non-adherent and absorb exudates, eliminating odours. For more information on the Robinson Animal Health Care range contact them on 01909 735000 or visit www.robinsonhealthcare.com www.equi-ads.com
Equi_Ads_Apr_EW_rev.indd 45
Top (left to right): Neck wound sustained, not healing after nine days, Activate used for two days. Bottom (left to right): Activate used for four days, Activate used for six days, wound is healed after ten days with Activate. April 2014 | 45
21/03/2014 10:45
News Xxxxxxxxxx • Healthcare
HOPE ARRIVES AT DPHT More hope for Dartmoor ponies! S
adly, the Dartmoor Pony Heritage Trust is unable to rehome all of the Dartmoor foals produced annually and when the current foal situation appears so desperate, the DPHT team felt they could provide some Hope by providing a safe haven to mother and daughter. So it seemed only right to name the young filly foal Hope! Charity Manager Dru Butterfield told EquiAds “We would love to be in a position to help more of the unwanted Dartmoor foals, but we must be realistic about what our charity is capable of funding. By providing the public with the opportunity to follow Hopes life we believe she will help us to promote why Dartmoor Ponies are so important to Dartmoor and why Dartmoor Ponies make such good companions, riding and driving ponies. Piglet and Hope will graze the parkland surrounding the DPHT Visitor and Education Centre until late spring when Hope will be sufficiently grown and mature enough to be weaned. She will receive basic handling so we can carry out routine care. Although small at the moment, Hope is incredibly inquisitive and showing signs not only of super conformation but also a wonderful temperament, something Dartmoor Ponies are renowned for all over the world. We will then decide whether she is suitable to meet a few people at local shows and play an educational role at the Centre. Towards mid summer she will be moved to our moorland site at Bellever near Postbridge to join our growing herd of traditional Dartmoor Heritage
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mares and fillies. Dartmoor has witnessed a massive reduction in ponies over the past few years making our herd increasingly important as a reservoir of ponies with ancient bloodlines. We ask all visitors to Parke Estate to enjoy our new arrivals from a distance; please do not approach or feed them. Hope is at a particularly vulnerable stage of her life and is on a perfectly balanced diet; additional feed could harm her and distress her mother. We greatly appreciate everyones assistance in helping us by giving them plenty of their own space to bond and grow.
If you would like to donate towards Hopes upkeep, please send a cheque made out to Dartmoor Pony Heritage Trust and post to DPHT, Parke Estate, Bovey Tracey, TQ13 9JQ. Or to find out more about the work they do or adopt one of their other ponies, please go to: www.dpht.co.uk
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C Ladies Kenilworth Competition Shirt is available in sizes 8 to 20 and is priced at £33.99
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I EQUIOIL ® Keeping Horses Happy
Welcome to Equine Essential Oils Aromatherapy for your Horse Using Pure Essential Oils Lavender - Natural Calmer Peppermint– Muscle Injuries
would like to welcome you all to Equine Essential Oils – If you, like us wish to use completely natural aromatherapy products to help improve all aspects of your riding then our Equioil products are made just for you. Our range uses natural essential oils which all have their own homeopathic qualities and the key is to warm up the essential oils in your hand before massaging into your horse’s coat, all our massage oils can also be used as a wash by simply adding a couple of pumps into a bucket of water and leave to dry without the need to wash off. We have three different types of massage oils – lavender, peppermint and carrot seed & tea tree as well as a range of hoof oil and shampoo. Carrot Seed & Tea Tree massage oil really comes into its own in Spring time at the beginning of the dreaded sweet itch season as our Carrot Seed & Tea Tree massage oil is a great natural treatment for sweet itch and mites. For the best results, massage into the irritated area of the coat every day for a week and you will see a marked improvement – in the second week you can massage your horse once or twice a week and of course your horse will absolutely love having a wonderful massage. Please visit www.horseoil.co.uk to find out more about our unique aromatherapy products, watch the video “How to massage your horse”, find the list of our stockists and also the various shows we will be attending throughout the year.
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News Xxxxxxxxxx
Style and U Performance England SSport T N E M E L P P U S M Msponsor! ERP Show attractsInew support three
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14th birthday on January 1. he Style and Performance • Ponies exceeding 138cms but Show Jumping at this year’s not exceeding 153cms – riders NPS Spring Festival is to be he Sport England Get not to have attained their their sponsored by TopSpec. Equipped programme 18th birthday on January 1. The 12th NPS Spring Festival has awarded over £1.1 • Ponies not exceeding 138cms – takes place at Addington million of sports equipment riders any age. Manor Equestrian Centre in to organisations across the • Ponies exceeding 138cms but Buckinghamshire on April 11 and country to facilitate increased not exceeding 153cms – riders 12 with the Show Jumping being access to sport for disabled people. Three riding centres across the country any age. held on the Friday evening. are to benefit from the funding encouraging more people to discover 59.32Nicola £ Tyler )tnemelppus tnioj decnavda( AH XELF REIMERP The competition aims to from TopSpec equestrian sports. encourage told Equi-Ads: “The Style and Newham Riding School & Association, East London, Conquest 59.6Performance 2£ )walc slived htiw( SULP Xcorrect ELFrider REstyle IMand ERP a high level of performance from Show Jumping is Centre for Disabled Riders, Taunton, and Morpeth Group Riding for the throughout. Disabled, Northumberland will benefit from the Get Equipped fund. This59.9a1great £ format foryencouraging lno )recnalab both deepony f( Eand TErider LPM OC 563 Five marks will be allocated per both correct rider position and will support the development of wheelchair accessible mounting ramps, while of ponies and riding equipment, such as reins, saddle pads and stirrups, a driving carriage59.5production 1£ ylnweo are ertiL 1fence, ETfor UTstyle ITS BUjumping, S ETUB with 20 marks for overall very pleased to be supporting the and new horse, plus specialised training for staff members. impression. at the event.” Hannah Brook, Trustee for the Newham Riding School & Association, 59.8competition 2£ ylppus yad 54 gk1 ROIRRAW DUM The first placed pony in each During the event there will be explained to Equi-Ads the impact the new equipment will make to the class qualify centre; “We are incredibly excited to receive support from the Sport 05.four 5£ sections which include: g002 MAE Rwill CR OIRtoRgoAforward W DUM to the Final at the NPS Spring • Ponies not exceeding 138cms – England Get Equipped Fund. It will enable us to create a more sustainable riders not facility and provide an enhanced experience for larger numbers of disabled99.22£ gkto2 have )ppattained us footheir h( ETFestival IRUOinV2015. AF SREIRRAF people, including those with more complex needs. British Horse Society Fundraising Executive, Claire Fairclough, was a great support with the 59.62£ gk2 )setylortcele( SETYL REIMERP application for funding, which will now allow us put on events to celebrate our rider’s success and to make riding more accessible for more disabled 59.21£ )!paehc( g005 MSM DELLITSID ERUP people.” Horse riding has a multitude of proven therapeutic benefits for disabled59.22£ ne topic that ignites furious is whether sertildebate 5 LIon Ointernet DEEforums SNIL NIGRIV people and access to riding opportunities is in high demand across or not to leave wet rugs on a horse to dry out. Many argue strongly England. Maggie Still, Head of Participation at the British Equestrian against the practice because it means running the risk of horses developing Federation said “This Sport England support is greatly appreciated and will rain scald and fungal infections, the warm damp conditions between the YLNO be directed to those people delivering at local level who need it the most.)ylppus hskin for theP tnomand 4( the blanket creates the ideal conditions AH xthen ebacteria lrugs fRthemselves EtoIgrow. MEIfareR ! ! 99to.1 4£any skin conditions horse does manage avoid still likely to need replacing more often as the prolonged damp encourages ?xthe elF debate reimerhas P ebeen soohraging C yhW mould to grow. So, as the wet weather continues ylsuon omhorse rone forums reffid ye ht tcathe f niweb. ,emas eht era stnemelppus tnioj eniuqe lla toN across users comments tnioj ytMany ilauq p ot Aare .magainst eht ni dthe enipractice, atnoc stn eidergni esuch vitcaase‘you ht fowouldn’t slevel eht ni yourself a si leave hcihwa wet enimcoat asoon culG fo levso el why doogwould a ylnoyou tonleave niatone noc on dluyour ohs horse?’ tneme,lpare pus common, others focus more on the health aspects, ‘It gives them rain scald, .MSM dna AH ,nitiordnohC fo slevel hgih osla tub tneidergni paehc ylevitaler We want to hear can also make them even colder, in the stable better to have no rug at all !yadaotwet tnerug.’ melppus tnioj eniuqe ceps tsehgih eht ylbissop si xelF reimerP than about your: It is clear that the issue is a ‘lively’ one and that it’s close to the hearts of horse owners. They want to do the best for their horses, keep them NEWS * comfortable and well looked after but in these difficult conditions many are finding it hard. The cold wet weather means that leaving the rugs to RESULTS hang up in stable and dry overnight is often unsuccessful, leaving cold EVENTS damp rugs in the morning, whereas leaving them on the horse is fraught with health risks. So what’s the answer?? Send your news articles For years large scale stables have been using large rug dryers with up to six rails to dry out their rugs from soaking wet to warm and dry in four over to Equi-Ads and hours. The equipment, by DriMee, represents a sound Ymanufactured LNO see them published. )ylppus syad 04( AM LAC investment for the stables as it means that they can always ensure that ! ! 9 9 . 9 2 £ they have a stock of warm dry rugs to put onto their horses. However this Please contact txequipment en eht ot shas tcualways dorp gnbeen imlabeyond c eniuqethe sereach kat dnofa the tcudsmaller orp tsescale tal ruhorse o si amlaC bob@equiads.net now. slowner acitueuntil cartue n fo noitalumrof euqinu a sesu amlaC srewsnA eniuqE .level Sheffield based company have used their expertise to manufacture Tel: 020 8302 6069 .tcudorThe p gnimlac evitceffe ylgnizama na edivorp ot sbreh gnimlac laiceps dna an affordable, single rail rug dryer that can take a soaking wet rug and make elbait brwarm osba and fo sdry mroin f four tseb hours. yrev The eht unit desuis small, evah cheap ew am C (approx. gnitalum7p rof nI tolarun Want to advertise taht an dnhour) uof eW AA mat uis£274+VAT engaM dnait e psA muisinvestment engaM ni m sengam and.Cpriced istaantraaffordable foruithe and promote gnimtack lac troom. erces The htiwdryer muisshould engamprovide fo smraowelcome f ytilauq addition hgih owttoethe sehtack t gniroom nibmoc and be a real help to horse owners struggling to maintain their kit in the . n o i t a l u m r o f g n i m l a c e l b i s s o p t s e b e h t s u e v a g sbreh your business? wet weather. na edam sah ti...tnemelppus siht gnitaerc rof uoy knaht ot ekil tsuj dluoW“ “We are very excited about this product”, said DriMee’s founder Mark Give us as call and see "nwtechnology o ot legna that na eis srwidely ohecarused -xe ein lbaticxe Whitworth, “we have taken a proven shtiffiarG eyaF your company advertised large stables and made it available to the ordinary rider. It will make real difference for people looking after their animals in the wet weather.” in the magazine. DriMee’s new dryer comes at just the right time for horse owners and it will help greatly in the ongoing fight to maintain equipment. Tack rooms Please contact will now be much better prepared to deal with the wet weather, helping to stephanie@equiads.net ensure that the suffering and discomfort of horses is kept to a minimum. DriMee’s single bar rug dryer arrives in stores in March 2014 priced Tel: 01159 461146 at £274 +
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48 | April 2014
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0484125 5480 :leT
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21/03/2014 10:45
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tempest-rugs-2014_advert-A4 03/03/2014 14:30 Page 2
Durable, dependable, excellent value!
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se p qu ri es ze tr ia dr n. a co w m /T o em n pe lin st e Li a te t 55
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Trusted by riders since 1968
Limited Edition
A specially formulated hydrophilic coating designed to attract moisture, draws excess water vapour (or sweat) to the outside of the rug where it dissipates into the atmosphere to keep your horse warm and comfortable.
Equi_Ads_Apr_EW_rev.indd 2
www.shiresequestrian.com
21/03/2014 15:17