Equi-Ads June 2014 - UK Edition

The UK’s Largest FREE Equine Magazine • Now in its 19th year

FR

EE ®

JUNE 2014

Five Minutes with

Piggy French

Summer starts here!

WIN!

A VIP weekend at Hickstead with Petplan Equine

•Sweet Itch Tips •Horses at grass Some pros and cons

•Headshaking

The potential for Magnesium in Pain Management

•Bitting Advice •Nutrition focus •Vitamins and minerals •The art of bespoke bridles From the Society of Master Saddlers

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Plus:

WIN £500 worth of Parelli training

•Cross Country •Classical riding •Nutrition •Veterinary matters

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Xxxxxxxxxx Have Your Say

Main Features Horses at grass pros and cons ...........................9 Headshaking .........................11 Classical Riding .....................12 Horse Behaviour ...................18 Piggy French ..........................20 Wound dressing ....................22 Bitting Advice .................24/25

Royal Award J

oanna Heard, from Cirencester Saddlers, has been recognised for her accomplishments through learning by HRH The Princess Royal and the Worshipful Company of Saddlers’ at an awards ceremony at Buckingham Palace.

Joanna Heard was recognised for the very high standard of her practical work in Bridle, Saddle and Harness making. The dedication and attention to detail was particularly impressive.

Speaking about her success, Joanna said that it was a great honour to receive this award and made all the more special to be presented by Her Royal Highness The Princess Royal at Buckingham Palace.

Meanwhile, the Master of The Saddlers’ Company said that Joanna’s achievement was to be applauded

and she was a fine example to others working towards City & Guilds saddlery qualification.

Castration - the risks? ..........28 Nutrition Focus .....................30 Your first BE80 event ...........32

POLLEN - NO WORRIES! P

Keep in touch!

Don’t miss out - keep up-to-date with all the latest news and events by following us on Facebook

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01159 461146 COPY DEADLINE 10th June

ollen levels are high this year. Horses can have a very difficult time. Imagine living in a field surrounded by flowering rapeseed plants and tall of long grass.

You have nowhere to turn to and pollen drives you crazy. This would test to the ‘max’ the sanest person who is sensitive to pollen. Luckily for many years Global herbs has had access to a very good pollen product. PolleneX says so many horses from a terrible summer. It is based on a sophisticated combination of powdered herbs and herbal extracts and is available in straight concentrated powder or a soothing syrup formula. It has been so popular this year that stock of syrup is being used up quickly, so make sure you get a bottle while you can.

PolleneX Syrup 1L £23.25 PolleneX Powder 500g £31.00

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For more information see www.globalherbs.co.uk or phone 01243 773363.

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June 2014 | 1

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Xxxxxxxxxx News

www.conchiesaddlery.co.uk Telephone Dundee 01382 532536

ARENA EVENTING WITH TILNEY ST. LAWRENCE RC

Jo Woolley reports

W

e had a fab day, competitors jumped a course of coloured and rustic jumps spread right across the length of our field, we had 23 jumps in total!!

We were very lucky to be able to use Milton Showjumps Working Hunter jumps which are used at Equifest!

We started at 9am and finished at 6pm, what a fabulous day we had!!

Rebecca Carrington - Chester

Hannah Dobler - Ellie

Molly Ryan - Echo

Ella Davis - Lola Belle

Warwickshire Mark Phillips at Kelsall Hill!

Gold Cup Polo B Event T

he Warwickshire Gold Cup 2014 will take place at Dallas Burston Polo Club in Warwickshire on Sunday 13th July, between 11am and 5pm.

Spectators will watch the final of the high profile Fine & Country (sponsors) Warwickshire Gold Cup that will take place on the ground’s premier polo pitches. It promises to be a great day for all of the family with exciting activities, including helicopter rides, archery and shooting, pony rides and obstacle courses. Approximately 5,000 guests are expected to attend the event that will take place at Dallas Burston Polo Club, Stoneythorpe Estate, near Leamington Spa that encompasses 600 acres of Warwickshire countryside.

2 | June 2014

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oot experts, Grub’s are delighted to continue their support in the eventing world by sponsoring a fence at the recent British Eventing Kelsall Hill Horse Trials held on April 19-21 at Kelsall Hill Equestrian Centre.

Kelsall Hill offered competitors ‘grass root’ level eventing with BE80 and BE90 classes right up to Advanced Intermediate classes over the three days. The course was designed by Captain Mark Phillips and is built by David Evans, Richard Taylor and their team.

Said David Foster of Grub’s: “We love the sport of eventing and are proud to be able to give something back to the sport by supporting the event and in supporting our equestrian based customers.”

David’s daughters, Rachel and Beth Foster were competing along with Grub’s sponsored rider Ben Hobday, who had all had great rounds. For more information on the Grub’s range contact them on 01279 418052

Surrey mare wins £80,000!

T

he top prize at the Badminton Horse Trials went to Sam Griffiths riding eleven year old mare Paulanks Brockhagh.

Sam won the competition on a penalty score of 67-9 with Oliver Townend second on Armada with 70-7 and Harry Meade on Wild Along third with 71-4 penalties.

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Xxxxxxxxxx Results

The Badminton Grassroots Championships comes to a thrilling close

T

he 2014 BE100 and BE90 Grassroots Championships went right to the wire as the last rider crossed Badminton’s hallowed turf of the cross country course at the end of day two of the competition (6 – 7 May 2014).

The new Champions and runners up enjoyed the full Badminton treatment with a mounted prizegiving in front of Badminton House followed by a press conference in the Event’s media centre. They then celebrated at their own hog roast party, which was generously laid on

by Mitsubishi Motors in the UK. BE100 Top Three Alice Lumley who works on her family’s sheep farm in County Durham had leaped up the lead board to go from 11th place after dressage in to the Champions spot after a very influential cross country round. Their domination was extremely impressive in a class which had 42 completions, seven eliminations as well as five horses retiring on course.

Alice commented: “I am really

proud of him as I have had him since he was two and broke him in myself.

I don’t usually have much in the way of lessons but we did manage to squeeze in some training for this event!”

Second place went to 18 year old George Bolt from Dorset with his ride Asparagus ‘Gus’, (a British-bred bay gelding by Up with the Lark) who also made a huge leap up from 23rd place after dressage in to the runners up position to finish on his dressage result of 33.5. George comes from an equestrian background which has close links to Badminton; his grandfather Michael McNulty started his career in Hunt service by working for the Duke of Beaufort.

George also received a silver salver from Shearwater Insurance Services for being the highest placed Event Horse Owners Association (EHOA) member in this section.

Northamptonshire’s Jo Boggon and her coloured gelding Goodluck Jonathon ‘Jonny’ finished in second place, also on their dressage mark of 33.5; George Bolt had posted a time closer to the optimum cross country

Everything for Horse and Rider Huge selection of brands, bit hire, rug wash and repair, feed orders, leather repair & out of hours service Loyalty card scheme and discount for PC and riding club members Tel: 01773 570490 07427 647 308 joanne@snafflessaddlery.co.uk

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time which put him in a very close second place above Jo. Based near Bugbrooke, 50 year old Jo is a garden designer who has a business with her partner Hamish. Jo was also the recipient of the Keep Kicking on award for the highest placed rider aged over 40 in the section.

BE90 Top Three New Champion Zoe who works as in Southampton as an Oil and Gas Recruitment Consultant commented: “There was a lot of pressure on today’s performance overnight after yesterday’s dressage result so I didn’t manage to get much sleep! I am lucky he isn’t too spooky across country so he tackled everything really well, I really enjoyed the experience and the fantastic views of the house. It was a great experience.”

Zoe was followed in second place

by Candida Martin from Maidstone in Kent who was riding her iron grey gelding Lux Zen; the pair posted a strong double clear to finish on 27.5.

Candida, aged 44, was the winner of the Keep Kicking On trophy in this section.

Third place in the section went to 32 year old Sociology teacher Charlotte Lawson with her dark brown mare Obsidian III. Charlotte made her trip from North Yorkshire worthwhile posting a double clear to finish on 27.5.

The EHOA silver salver from Shearwater Insurance services in this section went to Michelle Pritchard who rode Moortown Alchemist in to fifth place in the BE90 finishing on a double clear and ending the day on her dressage score of 29.5.

Outstanding showjumping stallion standing for the 1st time in 2014.

Selected for the World Class Equine Pathway. Argeneeka. 16.2hh. 2008.

Licensed AES. Argentinus x Grannex.

Fresh/Chilled - £400 NFFR 4 | June 2014

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Healthcare Xxxxxxxxxx • News

SWEET ITCH TIPS O

wners of horses or ponies with sweet itch often dread the start of spring as the cycle of itching and scratching begins.

Aloeride the pure organic aloe vera supplement has not only been found to help improve the horses’ negative reaction to midges’ bites, but also has a positive effect on skin condition and helps to accelerate the healing process and as Han Van Braak, MD of Aloeride explains, there are some practical steps you can take in making life more comfortable for your equine friend this spring…

• Be prepared before the warmer weather arrives.

It is often hard to predict, when our seasons are so mixed up and whilst I would suggest feeding Aloeride at least 1 x month before the

sweet itch season kicks in, most of the time you wouldn’t be able to predict this!

• Whilst many of our customers report back that by using Aloeride they no longer require rug protection, I always recommend that you should hang onto your rug, as I believe a double ended pronged approach to tackling the condition is always more beneficial be it a rug or fly/ midge spray used in conjunction with our supplement.

• Turning your horse out during the middle of the day, rather than at night or early morning when midges are more likely to be out in full force can help, especially in fields that are

Han Van De Braak Photo Thoroughbred Sports Photography marshy or near rivers or lakes (which midges love). Midges do not fly in strong wind, heavy rain or bright, clear sunshine, so under these weather conditions your horse shouldn’t be under such strong attack.

• Keeping your horse stabled at ‘high risk’ times will help keep them at bay and putting fly strips with citronella in the stable (making sure that they cannot be reached) is a another option.

Follow these tips and hopefully you and your equine friend can enjoy an itch-free, happy and healthy season! www.aloeride.co.uk 01858 464550 Images illustrating the condition by kind permission of: www.worldhorsewelfare.org 01953 498 682

South West Parelli Team Tour

T

he South West Parelli Instructor Team held a very successful demonstration at Bicton College, proving both fun and informative.

Instructors included 4* Parelli Professionals Alison Jones and David Zuend and the demonstrations showcased a fascinating insight into the Parelli programme, young horse training, action from the Savvy Team and much more.

The event demonstrated the high-level skills that can be achieved thanks to Parelli techniques and philosophies and how you can build a better connection with your horse or pony.

The team also talked about the Parelli Savvy Club which offers a wealth of information and advice to help you every step of the way in your natural horsemanship journey.

As is the case with most things in life, having a support system is key to success and the Parelli Savvy Club is a worldwide membership community where you can connect with Pat and Linda Parelli, find friends, learn, ask questions, get inspired and get support to help you become the best you can be for your horse.

For further information contact Parelli UK on 0800 0234 813 or visit www.parelli.com

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Grassroots Championships

T

David and Pie

Alison Jones and Grey

he course at Badminton was designed and built by James Willis with superb back-up from the organisation behind the International CCI4* event. The Championship brings together qualified riders from the 2013 BE90 and BE100 Regional Finals around the country to contest the overall Championship.

The course offered plenty of action for spectators with the culmination of the Grassroots competition with riders show jumping and going cross country plus the opportunity to shop around Badminton’s trade stands and explore the Badminton showground.

Rider information This year there are entries from amateur riders whose day jobs range widely and include everything from a sociology teacher, a newly qualified GP to an Aberdeen Angus herd farmer.

The Grassroots Championships have been held at Badminton since 2010; the Series and Championships were initiated by British Eventing to offer riders a competition that is purely for amateurs.

June 2014 | 5

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News Xxxxxxxxxx

YOUR CHANCE TO RIDE ROUND BURGHLEY

I

f you have ever dreamed of riding at one of the world’s most prestigious equestrian events, the South Essex Insurance Brokers Burghley Sponsored Ride 2014 is the opportunity you have been waiting for. The UK’s most exclusive sponsored ride takes place on Sunday 7th September 2014, on the final day of the world famous Burghley Horse Trials.

The Burghley Sponsored ride is run over a 12km course in the legendary Burghley Park, allowing participants to follow in the footsteps of great three day event riders. Whilst even the bravest sponsored riders will not be allowed to jump the fences, everyone can get up close to the daunting cross country obstacles and see how they really look from the back of a horse. The ride will take in many of the famous Burghley landmarks such as The Dairy Mound and Trout Hatchery. Riders will also enjoy breath-taking views over the magnificent Burghley House and have the chance to explore the tracks and pathways of the vast Burghley Estate.

“This is a wonderful opportunity for riders of all levels to ride round Burghley and raise money for charity at the same time. Importantly, 100%

of the money raised by participants will go to charity”, said SEIB Marketing Manager, Nicolina Mackenzie. SEIB offers competitively priced insurance cover for a multitude of equestrian possessions and pursuits and the company has a long held ethos of putting something back into equestrian sport. The company is also the sponsor and organiser of the hugely popular SEIB Racehorse to Riding Horse show class held in the main arena also on the Sunday at the Land Rover Burghley Horse Trials.

The SEIB Burghley Sponsored Ride will be a great ride to do with friends, as a yard or club and, as it is open to riders five years and upwards, it is also the perfect event to participate in as a family. The minimum donation is £30 per rider and every rider is urged to seek as many sponsors as possible beyond the minimum entry fee in order raise a substantial amount for charity.

Owing to the generosity of the event’s sponsors, SEIB, Stamford XT, Burghley Horse Trials and Burghley Estate, 100% of the money raised will go to equestrian and local Stamford charities.

Everyone completing the course will receive a special SEIB rosette and goody bag and there

will be Burghley sponsored prizes for the most money raised. Local volunteers from Stamford ex-Tablers will provide marshalling on the ride. We can advise where to find local stabling via enquiries by email, and there will be a photographer.

For further details, including how to enter visit www.icommentate.co.uk/burghley or email burghleysponsoredride@btconnect.com.

Find us on facebook at www.facebook.com/ SEIB.BurghleySponsoredRide. Entries are limited and close on the 29th August 2014.

Bridgwater College’s Equestrian Centre Welcomes International Horse Trainers T wo internationally recognised horse trainers, Richard Maxwell and Richard Waygood are visiting Bridgwater College’s Equestrian Centre in June.

Richard Maxwell, a horse behaviourist, who last visited the Centre two years ago, will be

holding a Lecture Demonstration on Friday 6 June. Problem horses are being sought for the evening, and will need to be assessed and approved by Max prior to the event. Richard started out in the Household Cavalry and later trained with Monty Roberts. His methods and teaching blend the best of conventional methods with natural horsemanship.

Tickets for the events can be bought via the Equestrian Centre or on the Online Store, store. bridgwater.ac.uk. Group lessons for the Jumping Clinic will be one hour with a maximum of four in a group - £38 per person. 1/2 hour private lessons are available at £65 per person. If you wish to form your own lesson, please discuss this with the equine staff on 01278 655023 when booking.

Overnight stabling can be provided at an extra cost.

Photo supplied: Richard Waygood.

Competition whites!

P

ikeur Crystal Button Competition Shirt available through Dressage Deluxe.

Adjustable stand-up collar with stunning crystal buttons, this shirt can be worn with or without a stock.

Available in White, Blue or Lilac.

RRP £40 www.dressagedeluxe.co.uk

Directory Property Abroad Brittany & Normandy Cardyke Overseas Properties Properties suitable for horses at a fraction of UK prices.

Tel: 01775 630 008

Saddlery South East Andrew Reilly Saddlers Spoods Farm, Tinkers Lane, Hadlow Down, East Sussex TN22 4ET Tel: 01825 830484 6 | June 2014

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Worming

Feeding

Wholesale

East Regular worm egg counts can save money! 6-8 weekly spring through autumn £5 each.

Church Farm FEC Tel: 01728 685 638 Email: churchfarmfec@hotmail.co.uk

The Haylage Co.

Thinking of starting your own equestrian retail business?

Then contact us: Hucklesby Associates Equestrian Wholesalers to the trade Tel: 01362 696 309 Fax: 01362 696 582 Email: hucklesbys@aol.com for a free trade e-catalogue Website: www.hucklesbyassociates.co.uk

A cost effective alternative to hay.

Based South Hertfordshire, we deliver to locations nationwide.

Tel: 07831 454 166 Email: guybrook@btinternet.com Website: www.poloforage.com

Include your details here.

Call 01159 461 146

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News

Five year old, Deian Prescott, a young RDA rider, negotiates an obstacle the Handy Pony competition during a rainy, Regional Challenge Day at Felbridge Show Ground.

NEW AVANTE FLY MESH COMBO

Team Teke Points T Competition Gill Suttle reports

T

eam Teke GB’s annual Points Competition has produced a runaway winner in Bethany Dee, of Warwickshire, riding her part-bred Akhal-Teke Midoak Magic Ikon. Beth and Monty won three classes at the British Palomino Society National Championships and stood Reserve Champions in the EQUILIBRA Ridden Palomino of the Year, adding significantly to their year’s tally of 1,640 points.

The Points Competition covers all competitions and outings for pure- and part-bred Akhal-Tekes, with points awarded on a scale proportionate to difficulty/achievement. Beth wins a year’s subscription to Your Horse magazine and an Amazon voucher (kindly donated respectively by Your Horse and Scimitar Press).

Placed second with a score of 987 was former British and European Endurance Champion Jill Thomas with the pure-bred Salimrashid, combining dressage and endurance. Third with 915 were Lorna WinnJones and the Anglo-Teke Saintwestwell Raisa.

Organiser Jenny Barnes writes: “Well done to Beth, a fantastic result. So wonderful to see an Akhal-Teke at National level. WHAT a variety of disciplines have been competed in – we have versatile horses!”

For full results see www.team-teke.co.uk.

Photograph by kind permission of Emma Bearman Photography

he new Avante Fly Mesh Combo rug from offers the ultimate in protection against both flies and summer showers!

Providing the best of both worlds this combination rug includes a 600 denier waterproof and breathable section along the top line protect from showers and a fly mesh lower section to protect against pests.

The rug has been designed to encourage airflow to keep horses and ponies cool and comfortable during the summer months.

Twin surcingle fastenings, tail flap, fillet string and easy touch close fastenings on the neck cover make this rug a brilliant choice this summer.

Reflective badging add to the finish of the Avante Fly Mesh Combo which is revolutionary in its design and manufacture.

Available in sizes 4ft 6in to 7ft 6in, colour grey. Priced at around £57.99.

Belle Tweed Skirt

N

ew from the Timothy Foxx spring/ summer collection.

Created to flatter your curves, this skirt drapes over your hips and neatly finished with an invisible zip for the perfect fit.

A cool Navy cotton lining and hidden split under the skirt’s flap ensure that this skirt feels as good as it looks! Sizes: 6 - 14 RRP: £110.00 www.timothyfoxx.co.uk

FEI Junior Eventing

F 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 | June 2014

Equi_Ads_June_EW_rev.indd 8

ollowing the Bishop Burton horse trials, Olympic rider Nicola Wilson is confirmed for this year. riding at last year’s event attached.

The horse trials is the symbolic countdown for the FEI Junior Eventing Championships which take place at the college in August.

The day after they finish the Pony Club Tetrathlon Championships arrive!

It’s hard to get across what a big deal it is for Bishop Burton (Britain and, of course, Yorkshire!) to get this championships which will play host to teams from across the world. Bishop Burton College 01653 619453

Nicola Wilson on Ngong Hills www.equi-ads.com

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Healthcare • Feeding

Horses at grass-some pros and cons Dr Derek Cuddeford, Royal (Dick) School of Veterinary Studies, University of Edinburgh

T

he goals are to provide enough grass for the horse to eat during spring, summer and autumn, an area for it to exercise on and possibly, even enough grass to conserve for winter-feeding. This year, 2014, spring was earlier following a very wet and depressing winter and for some, a real nightmare! A lot of grass has been stressed following water-logging of the ground and frost-damaged. The ground has been waterlogged for very long periods of

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Equi_Ads_June_National.indd 9

time and, as a consequence, both the land and the grass will take a long time to recover. Areas where horses have been overwintered outside are in a sorry state and are unlikely to turn into productive pastures, even with good spring weather. Thus, overall, there is a wide variation in quality and condition of pastures throughout the UK and this will be reflected in their ability to fulfil the above goals. Many people will quote how many grass acres/hectares are required for a given number of horses but in general, this is a fairly meaningless figure. The productivity of the pasture rather than pasture area per se affects its stock carrying capacity so that 10 acres of rough ground may support two Exmoor ponies but 10 acres of well managed grassland could support ten 500kg horses!

Once the land has dried up sufficiently to allow horses and vehicles to travel on the pasture without making a mess then initial cultivation of the pasture can begin.

In view of all the rain and frost we have had this winter, it will be

necessary to give the ground a light roll to consolidate it and to make sure that the grass roots are “firmed” into the soil. “Frost-heave” opens up the pasture surface so that without rolling, a grazing horse will pull the grass out of the ground, roots and all! Depending on the weather (you ideally need about a week of dry weather following rolling) and the condition of the pasture, you can give the paddock a light harrowing to break-up/spread/ remove old dung deposits and to tease out any old, dead grass. A well-maintained pasture, grazed by sheep during the winter, will have little old grass present and may not require harrowing; sheep have the advantage that they manure the pasture evenly and roll it lightly...

Nitrogen-free fertiliser, contributing phosphorus (P) and potassium (K), can be applied at this time or you can use seaweed products/ organic fertilisers. Severely damaged pastures may need a little nitrogen to aid grass recovery. However, if the grass is not there i.e., died out, then it cannot regrow so some reseeding

may be needed! After this, herbicide can be applied for general weed control when the grass is actively growing or, more specific products can be used, such as those designed for ragwort control. Whatever you (continued on page 14)

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Healthcare • Have Your Say Xxxxxxxxxx

Have Your Say...

Send your letters to bob@equiads.net DEAR EDITOR

I

’m writing to you about a new animal charity set up by Jaine Macpherson. It’s called Animal, Support & Rescue (registered) based at Mid-Gann Farm in Hawood.

We rescue and rehome animals, mainly horses. We have thirteen rescue horses at the moment, all with a tale to tell.

We are always looking for volunteers and help with funding ideas.

Equi-Ads readers are always welcome to visit the charity and see our work with the rescue horses.

Margaret Macpherson, Paisley

Is your horse calm, smart, brave and athletic?

I A

ll this and more can be achieved when you join a Parelli programme.

The UK team are delighted to announce that they are holding a Level 3 and 4 Advancing Horsemanship in all Four Savvys course at RDA Glasgow in Summerston, Glasgow. August 5 to August 7, led by 3* Parelli instructor, Rachael Morland and supported by Kirsty Heffron and Sarah Olney.

Designed for you and your horse, learn first-hand from experienced UK Parelli instructors and learn how Love, Language and Leadership can help shape your relationship with your horse for the better.

The course will focus on advancing your Parelli knowledge through all Four Savvys; On Line, Liberty, FreeStyle and Finesse, improving problem solving and increasing the challenge you ask of your horse. Book your place now!

The course costs £480 for members, £540 for non-members including venue hire and stabling.

For more information about any of the courses contact the Parelli team on 02476 982151 or email courses@parelliuk.com

Re. Canadian Visitor ’ve just read the editor letters about the Canadian girl looking for trekking in August. Tell her to look at highlandsunbridled.co.uk.

They offer what she is looking for and seem to get good reviews.

Regards Avril Scott

P

erhaps the following could be useful to your reader Sandy Jones from Canada: “The Trekking and Riding Society of Scotland would be a great place to start. You can visit their websitewww.ridinginscotland.com They have some super places listed with them and a clear and easy to use website. Their Chief Exec would welcome enquiries if you are looking for greater depth of information. You can find all their contact details along with other trekking centres on http://www.equestrianindex.com/ holidays-and-tourism/trekking-centres#www.equestrianindex.com Alternatively you can call the Equestrian Index team and we will do our best to help you. Enjoy your holiday”!

Robin Finlay, Director

EQUUS CABALLUS PERFORMANCE “Providing optimal support for your horse”

EQUUS CABALLUS PERFORMANCE www.equuscaballusperformance.co.uk “Providing optimal support for your horse” www.equuscaballusperformance.co.uk

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Range of Hoof care Products- Silvetrasol/Thrushender Hoof care Products J. HartRange Herbal of Solutions -Devils Claw/Emmunity/Best Friend Silvetrasol/Thrushender Equine Organix pH-balanced Organic Chamomile Shampoo & Detangler for hor and dogs E3AFA FOR HORSESSuperfood forons horses J. Hart Herbal Soluti - fresh water Blue-Green Algae with Crystalloid Electrolyte Sea Minerals.

Devils Claw/Emmunity/

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For further pH-balanced information please visit our website: Equine Organix Organic Chamomile Shampoo & Detangler for horses www.equuscaballusperformance.co.uk and dogs

E3AFA FOR HORSES- Superfood for horses fresh water Blue-Green Algae with Crystalloid Electrolyte Sea Minerals

For further information please visit our website: www.equuscaballusperformance.co.uk 10 | June 2014

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Equi_Ads_June_National.indd 11

OMEGA

3 6 7 9

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

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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

OMEGA

C

lients frequently report obvious, and often dramatic, improvements in symptoms of headshaking when supplementing MAH® magnesium.

Understanding of headshaking is relatively poor, but regardless of the cause, sensitivity of the facial nerves and an associated pain are involved.

And this would likely explain magnesium’s role; its action as a calcium antagonist – helping the body to manage calcium – is fundamental to maintaining normal nerve function. Magnesium depletion is known to increase the sensitivity of nerves.

In 1996 the first randomized study was conducted observing the role of magnesium in post-operative pain in humans. It was found that magnesium reduced the need for pain killing drugs, increased comfort and increased sleep quality with no adverse effects.

Poor magnesium levels are associated with central sensitisation where the excitatory action of calcium results in a prolonged reduction in the pain threshold. This can cause intense pain even with the slightest stimulus and allows the pain to continue even after the stimulus is removed.

Central sensitisation is often blamed for neuropathic pain, a pain caused by a number of conditions which damage the peripheral nervous system.

The pain associated with headshaking would be considered neuropathic pain. Clinical trials have shown positive results using magnesium with several forms of this pain and it is interesting to note that diabetes, which is heavily linked with magnesium depletion, is the most common cause of neuropathic pain.

Many horses are sensitive to light (photosensitivity), which triggers the nerves behind the eye, causing pain. Recent studies have also linked magnesium depletion to photosensitive headaches. This theory extends to other headache types with one study finding a high serum ionized calcium to magnesium ratio in all participants with migraine and cluster headaches.

The anecdotal reports of the benefits of MAH® with horses that headshake may well be explained by these links and others. Certainly it is the case that the discomfort experienced by a headshaker is a cause of stress, and stress is known to deplete magnesium, suggesting that magnesium supplementation should always be considered.

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Training

clASSIcAl RIdIng - pARt FIVE:

tURn On tHE HOckS OR dEMI-pIROUEttE By Anne Wilson

T

he quarter turn on the haunches, or walk pirouette as it is also referred to, is not such a difficult exercise as is sometimes thought. It is an extremely useful exercise to teach the horse to bring his hind legs underneath him. It builds up the strength and suppleness in the joints and helps the horse to take weight back onto his haunches.

It can be introduced into the training programme relatively early.

As soon as the horse is moving forward and straight from the rider’s leg and is able to maintain a reasonable rhythm, then the quarter pirouette in walk can be introduced. It is not a particularly taxing exercise and most horses enjoy it and find it relatively easy to learn. It is amazing how after just a couple of quarter turns on either rein, the horse can feel lighter. This is a definite sign that he is learning to take his weight back. However, this lighter feel may not last since the young or untrained horse will take time to develop the physical strength to maintain this new way of going and his balance may well tip forward again. As with all new exercises, it should be practiced equally on both reins and two attempts on either rein on one day will suffice to begin with. Time must be allowed to build up the horse’s strength and suppleness.

The walk pirouette is very different from turn-on-theforehand The walk pirouette is very different from turn-on-the-forehand, because it aids in the re-balancing of the horse’s weight back onto the strong hind legs and haunches, thus rendering the forehand lighter, which is one of the main aims of training. Turn-on-the-forehand tends to have the opposite effect, throwing weight onto the forehand. Turn on

the forehand is a good movement to teach the horse to move away from the unilateral leg aid and is useful for opening gates, but its use should be limited. It is merely a movement and not a beneficial exercise as is the walk pirouette.

I mention the difference here because many people misunderstand the turn-on-hocks, using it in much the same way as turn-on-the-forehand. I refer to it as walk pirouette for the explicit reason that it should be carried out at the walk, never from a standstill.

If a turn-on-hocks is carried out from a standstill then its only value is as a useful manoeuvre, it has no beneficial physical value as described above and therefore cannot be described as an exercise.

The walk pirouette can be carried out as a quarter turn or a half turn, say to change the rein. Obviously the quarter turn is the aim at the beginning of training, and can be extended to make a complete half turn later on, when horse and rider are familiar with and confirmed in the quarter turn.

THE HORSE’S MOVEMENT IN THE QUARTER WALK PIROUETTE

This exercise is best taught from the arena track; it is so much more difficult in the middle of a field or middle of the arena, without the help of the arena wall.

The horse should be walked down the track, say on the right rein, in an active but contained walk. It is best to aim for the turn at or near the half marker ‘B’ or ‘E’.

A slight right flexion is required.

His neck and body will follow this flexion slightly but there should not be too much bend in his neck.

A half-halt is often helpful a stride or two before the turn is requested.

The horse should then bring his shoulders round to the right in

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Here you see the rider turning her upper body into the turn, keeping her torso firm. She is using her right (outside) leg to encourage the forehand to the left and supporting the horse with her inside leg on the girth, and both hands together but not pulling backwards. - Alexa with Ike. two definite steps to make a right angled turn. This will mean that his right hind leg will be obliged to step further forward underneath his body.

After completing this quarter turn he should be straightened up and asked to walk straight to the opposite side of the school. It is often helpful to think of these turns as part of a square.

A good pirouette will maintain the four-beat of the walk and the inside hind leg will not pivot but mark time as the horse turns.

THE RIDER’S AIDS FOR THE QUARTER WALK PIROUETTE

Assuming that you are on the right rein, give a gentle warning half-halt after ‘K’.

Feel the right rein just before ‘E’.

This ‘feeling’ rein should consist of an opening and closing of the fingers. On no account take the right rein to the right as in an ‘open rein’ aid. If the horse’s neck is overbent to the right it will be virtually impossible to perform the pirouette.

Inside Leg Keep your right leg at the girth as a pillar of support for the horse to turn around. Lengthen your right leg, or in other words step down slightly into the right stirrup. This will encourage the horse to move his forehand to the right and follow your weight.

Outside Leg It is your left (outside) leg which asks the horse to move away from the track to the right. Initially nudge the forehand to the right with your left leg at the girth and as the horse moves round, slide your left leg back to control the quarters and prevent them from falling outwards as the turn progresses. The whole of your left leg should be brought into play,

i.e. from the thigh downward, not just the lower leg.

The Rider’s Upper Body, Hips and Hands Your upper body should be very tall yet without tension, with an expanded chest and supportive abdominal and lower back muscles.

Shoulders relaxed back and down, with elbows resting on the torso.

As your legs ask for the turn, your upper body, hips and hands turn in unison. Keep your hands together as a pair and turn to the right, together with your shoulders.

Turn your head at the same time and look where you want your horse to look.

Your inside (right) hand should be soft and giving, encouraging the turn but without pulling or moving to the right.

It is very important that your outside (left) hand should remain firm and supportive against the horse’s neck, but without any harsh pulling. Provided that the reins are short enough (and it is important that they are) the slight bend in the horse’s neck, together with the movement of the shoulders, should mean that the outside (left) rein automatically becomes firmer, as it is filled by the horse’s neck, and the inside (right) rein will be softer, as you take your hands to the right as a pair.

Advancing Forward and Straight After the Turn Once the required angle of the turn has been achieved and you are facing the opposite side of the arena (in this case you will be facing ‘B’), ask the horse to move forward and straight to the opposite track.

Neutralise your aids, bringing both legs back together at the girth and straighten your position. It is (continued on page 16) www.equi-ads.com

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Xxxxxxxxxx Feeding (continued from page 9) do, do not start spraying any herbs or herb strips otherwise, they will “disappear” for good and then somebody (rarely the mistress of the house) will be in deep trouble.

Grass will begin growing once soil temperatures exceed 4/6oC. It might sound a little silly to say this but many horse owners do not recognise when the grass begins to grow and wait too long before putting their animals out. The consequence of putting out animals late is that the grass “gets away” from the horse and, unless you can increase animal numbers very quickly or have a very greedy animal, the pasture will become uneven with rank patches of grass. Of course, very wet weather can prevent you from putting out the horses and so the grass can get “out of hand” in this way as well. Fortunately, with the advent of the modern electric fence, this situation can be managed by controlling the area of grass that is available to the horse or pony. If the latter tends to get fat on fresh air then the grass area can be strictly limited and appetite satisfied by providing continuous access to good quality feeding straw.

The limitation of this approach is that if it is very wet then a small area of ground can become badly poached (churned up mud!) and so you really need an all-weather loafing area on which you can confine the animals. In most cases, it is preferable to limit all horse types to this type of area during very wet weather because otherwise they will do untold damage to the grassland; the only possible exception would be if the animals were kept on free-draining, chalky downland. Another worry when grass starts to grow in the spring is that of laminitis although in most cases, it can be prevented by limiting access to grass; easily achieved using the magical electric fence. The grass which the horse or pony cannot reach (i.e., the other side of the electric fence!!) will grow taller and provide a “bank” or “reservoir” of grass that can be used later in the season either for conservation as hay or haylage or, for grazing if there is a summer drought (we live in hope of such things). The electric fence can be your flexible friend rather like a credit card but in contrast, there are no limits to its use……..

So, having decided that an electric fence is as essential as a saddle when it comes to keeping horses, how do we deal with a grass “bank”?

As mentioned earlier it can be used in times of drought but global warming seems to result in never ending rain and gales so, we are still left with an excess of grass at certain times of the year! Borrowing some sheep is a good idea although Ministry (DEFRA) regulations

Blue chip sponsors FreeStyle to music B lue Chip Feed is pleased to announce their sponsorship of the new series ‘The Blue Chip Online Freestyle to Music’ hosted by Dressage Anywhere. The Blue Chip Online Freestyle to Music is a fantastic new concept to encourage riders to compose a freestyle test with music of their choice and perform this test in the comfort of their own home. All riders need to do to get involved is video their freestyle dressage test to music and send the video or YouTube link to www.dressageanywhere. com. Your test will then be scored by a List 1 British Dressage judge and your score sheet can then be downloaded

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require that movements of animals be recorded and that animals can be individually identified.

Tattooing is not very satisfactory so shepherds usually resort to ear piercings! The last F&M catastrophe brought the need for individual identification of sheep to light. Thus, I think that the best strategy would be to try to save the excess grass, probably as haylage. In this situation and in most years, it is probably best to hire an agricultural contractor who could harvest your excess grass even though you might have relatively small amounts to save. It is worth emphasising that a shed is not required for storage of haylage prior to use. The horse owner without access to extensive buildings can thus still harvest and store their entire winter forage requirement outside. Areas of grass that are available after mechanical harvesting are known as “aftermaths” and are a valuable resource because, if not entirely worm-free, they are at least relatively so compared to the normal grazing area. Youngstock can be put on to these aftermaths to reduce the parasite challenge that would normally occur when moved on to pastures continually grazed by horses. It is particularly beneficial to put newly born foals with their dams onto such pastures because the grass regrowths are highly nutritious and this will encourage normal foal growth and development as well as supporting milk production from the mare. In early lactation, the mare has energy requirements equivalent

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to those of a racehorse in full work and protein needs well in excess of such an animal!

It is perhaps apparent then that careful integration of conservation areas with grazing areas can satisfy different animal needs at different times during the grass-growing season.

Mature animals and those doing little or no work do not require grass of high nutritional value whereas growing/breeding/working animals do. Obviously, the grass area that is available regulates what you can do with it; by analogy, there are many more opportunities available to you when given a Range Rover than when given a bicycle…..For many a horse or pony, their small grass paddock represents home, a food supply, an exercise area, a source of parasites, a cause of lameness (such as thrush) and a prison. Some animals are housed throughout the year and have very limited access to grassland, if at all. However, it may become a legal requirement that horse and ponies be allowed out to grass during the summer. If such laws were enacted in the UK many horse owners would not be allowed to keep horses.

In conclusion, it is clear that grassland is considered to be a very important component of the environment in which the horse is kept and thus, every care should be taken in the management of horse pastures. However, it will be apparent to the reader that there are both varied pros and cons to keeping horses and ponies at grass.

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(continued from page 12) helpful to fix your gaze on ‘B’ and try to keep the walk rhythm and ride in a straight line to the opposite track, where you can make a normal turn in either direction. It is not advisable to attempt another quarter turn on returning to the track.

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Training

Expanding the Quarter Turn to a Demi-Pirouette When horse and rider are fully confirmed in the quarter turn and can perform the exercise with relative ease, then it is time to extend the turn to a demi-pirouette, describing a half circle turn.

To do this the rider maintains the aids already in place for the quarter turn, continuing to support and turn the horse with the outside rein and outside leg. This should be started on the track as before and instead of straightening the horse up when facing the opposite track; the aim is to continue until facing the opposite direction. It is a useful way of changing the rein.

It is during this more advanced turn that the rider must use discretion with the outside aids. If too strong an aid is used the horse will lose the momentum of the four track beat of the walk and is likely to pivot on the inside hind, which diminishes some of the benefits of the exercise. So the rider must allow a certain amount of forward movement, and do not expect to end the exercise back on the track.

You are likely to finish the turn a stride or two inside the track. At this point you can begin to change the bend and walk back to the track, or if you are at a more advanced stage of training, the rider can ask for a half-pass back to the track.

On the other hand if the rider is too weak with the outside aids, then the horse will lose the pirouette altogether. It is important that the rider maintains a good body posture and keeps the inside leg lengthened in order to encourage the horse to step under the weight, at the same time as keeping the inside leg gently on the horse to act as his pillar of support around which he turns.

Once the quarter and demipirouette have been mastered, it can be slotted into the daily training routine either as an exercise unto itself, or whenever the horse begins to feel too heavy in the hand. It can also be used to add interest in the lesson, for the purposes of changing the rein etc.

When the horse is strong enough, the quarter turn can also be used in trot. It is a useful exercise to introduce when riding a serpentine, but only use it when leaving the track and make a normal bending turn when joining the track on the other side. Do not expect to feel exactly the same amount of thrust from the inside hind in trot as you did in walk, but gradually the strength in the horse’s hind limbs will

increase and it will become easier.

I reiterate here – never overdo any exercise, and always allow yourself and your horse plenty of rest periods when the horse can stretch on a long rein, especially after completing an exercise well. Once you have made a couple of good turns on either rein, be satisfied with that until the next session.

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

In this shot you see the turn progressing towards a demi-pirouette (half turn), and the activation of the inside hind stepping through and under - Alexa with Ike Apology to readers... the following caption was omitted from the diagram shown on page 25 of the April issue.

"There is often confusion regarding shoulder-in and leg-yield across the school. The above diagram shows the difference in positioning of the horse:Shoulder-in (marked 'b' at the top of the diagram), shows the horse moving from 'X' towards 'M' on the track.

Leg-Yield (marked 'a' at the bottom of the diagram) shows the horse moving off the track at 'A' towards 'B' on the track.

Diagram courtesy of Black Tent Publications - www.blacktent.co.uk" www.equi-ads.com

23/05/2014 16:10

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HORSE BEHAVIOUR - Speaking the language part 21 A series by SUSAN McBANE explaining equestrian and scientific terminology in relation to equine behaviour and psychology, and its effects on horses and training. (This series is based on a glossary of equestrian and scientific terms presented in ‘Equitation Science’ by McGreevy and McLean, 2010, the standard work on the subject. The glossary definition is given in quotation marks, followed by Susan’s discussion.)

BREAK IN (gentle, start): ‘The basic foundation training of a young horse to respond to cues and signals that control its rhythm and tempo, direction and posture for whatever purpose it may be required.’

THERE are, of course, many ways to ‘break in’ a horse and humans have been doing it for thousands of years. This article is not so much about how to do it or to present a description of the various methods but to discuss what can go wrong during the process, what can go right, and why, because they all have one aim – to produce an obedient and useful horse – and have a lot in common.

The term ‘break in’ is still widely used in the horse world, although more and more people feel it is an inappropriate one to use for a living animal, suggesting harsh treatment as being normal and necessary, which they are not although they still occur, and other expressions have been coined in an effort to come up with something more humane-sounding, including the two above – ‘gentle’ and ‘start’.

Equitation scientists use the term ‘foundation training’ which is very clear and appropriate: it involves training the horse (by means of negative reinforcement – see below) to obey cues or signals (also called ‘aids’ most commonly, or ‘messages’) to request the most basic moves required of any horse for control and safety which are: to go, to slow down, stop or go backwards, to turn the hindquarters and to turn the forehand. Another very useful move taught to horses during foundation training is to lower or raise the head. Detailed descriptions of the techniques

involved in this training have been given in this series several times so I shan’t repeat them just now.

NEGATIVE REINFORCEMENT ‘Negative reinforcement’ is a term becoming more familiar in the general horse world. It, too, has been described previously in this series. The term is correctly used in the mathematical sense of ‘negative’ meaning the subtraction or removal of something slightly unpleasant, such as the pressure of our aids or cues to reward the desired response.

The horse will usually try various moves in response to the pressure (called ‘trial-and-error learning’ and widely used in animal training) but the trainer does not stop the aids till the horse has produced the response the trainer wants.

The horse therefore learns what movement to make to cause that particular pressure to stop: for example, he learns that when he feels pressure on both of his sides, if he moves forward it will stop, or when he feels pressure on both sides of his mouth, if he slows down, stops or goes backwards it will stop. This strengthens, or reinforces, the likelihood of the horse giving the response the trainer wants.

Very full details of this procedure

‘I CAN’T WAIT FOR IT TO ARRIVE!’ wrote a subscriber to ‘TRACKING-UP’ published by In our current issue: DR GREEN or DEMON GRASS?, Anne Wilson: WHAT IS AN AID?, Lesley Skipper: MILITARY EQUITATION and DRESSAGE, Paul L. Dawson: HOW TO BE A 5-STAR HORSE OWNER, Susan McBane: SCHOOLING AT THE WALK: Caitlin Collins: DOMINANCE IN EQUINE FAMILIES, Lesley Skipper: HALT, HALFHALT and CANTER, Anne Wilson: THE RIDER’S BACK, Sylvia Loch, plus Classical Riding Q&A, strangles, Christoph Hess lecture report and more.

‘Tracking-up’ is published quarterly. Printed copies are £5.27 per issue or £18.98 for a 4-issue subscription. Digital copies are £4.00 per issue or £14 for a 4-issue subscription. Clearly print your name, address (and your email address for digital) plus ‘TUA23’, 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.

18 | June 2014

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Issue 23 – May 2014

and its application in training and riding are given in several books but I recommend ‘Equitation Science’

by Paul McGreevy and Andrew McLean, ‘Equine Behavior’ by Paul McGreevy and ‘Academic Horse Training: equitation science in practice’ plus its associated DVDs,

by Andrew McLean and Manuela McLean. The first two are available through good bookshops and on line but the third may only be available from the Australian Equine Behaviour Centre (see end of article) although it is worth trying on line. (I was really miffed when someone I know got the whole set of two books and the three DVDs for £5 on Ebay last year!)

The correct and precise application of negative reinforcement is absolutely crucial to its success. The incorrect use of it is the cause of very many problems arising in not only foundation training but also riding in general, also driving and general handling, so let’s examine why.

The most talented, sensitive, ‘natural’ and ‘thinking’ horse trainers have always used a form of negative reinforcement although they haven’t called it that until maybe recently.

When I learned to ride, too long ago to think about, we were taught that once we had given our aid for whatever we wanted, and the horse had complied, we stopped giving it. There was no point, we were told, in keeping asking him for something he had already done for us. What more was he supposed to do? Great emphasis was placed on teaching us to be secure and balanced, still and sensitive riders, to which end we were drilled in what we now call the classical seat, reprimanded in no uncertain terms if we did not develop the knack of keeping our hands still on a light, hand-holding contact, and told to look to ourselves if our horse or pony did not do what we wanted or misbehaved.

‘He’s just being naughty.’

How different things often are today! Most people now immediately blame the horse for ‘bad behaviour’, ‘naughtiness’ and ‘unwillingness’ or ‘laziness’ without its seeming to occur to them that they are probably the cause of it.

In practice, since rigorous scientific research gave us what is called ‘equine learning theory’ (how horses really learn rather than how we have thought they learn), it is

clear that most unwanted behaviour is due to confusion because of poor, irrational and inappropriate aiding – the application and release of what the equitation scientists call ‘cues’ and ‘signals’ – in other words, the incorrect use of negative reinforcement.

Instructors often tell their hapless students that they must ‘keep doing something at every stride’ in order to keep the horse up to his game.

There is no ‘negative’ part in this kind of riding because the aids almost never stop. This also does not teach the horse what the aids mean; he cannot learn that because there is no release (stopping) of the aids to reward him or to confirm that a particular action will stop the pressure, whether that be squeezing, kicking, spurring, pulling or jabbing on the mouth, or holding his head in and up or down on a relentlessly heavy contact.

Things get even worse when, in desperation, instructor or student resort to giving the horse ‘a good hiding’ with the whip to ‘sort him out’ because they, again, are blaming the horse for failing to understand what is, to him, gobbledigook. They might even brand him as vicious, bloodyminded, ungrateful (!) and other misnomers which all imply various levels of wickedness.

Avoiding the pitfalls Because of the way their brains and minds work, horses need things to be simple and, certainly during foundation training of young or green horses, and in the rehabilitation and retraining of ‘spoiled’ ones, there must be a clear gap between aids, which must be given one at a time. Later, as the aids and their correct responses become established in the horse’s mind, and start becoming habits, the system can be refined and aids given in quicker succession, whether they are bit, leg or weight aids or whip-taps on parts the rider or handler cannot reach with their hands or legs.

Probably the most common error, actually taught by conventional trainers and instructors as correct, is the application of leg and rein aids at the same moment, as in ‘driving a horse up to the bit’ or ‘riding forward into halt’, both of which involve legs on and a resisting contact in the mouth – that is, (continued on page 26) the horse www.equi-ads.com

23/05/2014 16:10

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Personality Profile

‘Five Minutes With...”

Piggy French

Eventer Piggy French, based in Cambridgeshire, is a member of the UK World Class Squad. She was the European Silver Medal winner in 2009, a member of the British World Equestrian Games squad in 2010, a member of the medal-winning European Championship team 2011, and is a past Young Rider team gold medal winner, and Under 25 Champion.

Piggy says her Mum has been her most influential mentor. “My Mother was extremely influential in teaching me to ride, and in her knowledge of horse fitness and management,” Piggy (real name Georgina), tells Equiads. “She’s been incredibly supportive over the years, as have the rest of my family, and I wouldn’t be where I am today without them.”

Remembering her childhood, Piggy says she was riding before she could walk. “Horses have always been a part of my life, and as my mother was an avid horse rider, I grew up always having horses around me,” she recalls.

Piggy says that if she could wave a magic wand and change one thing about her discipline, it would be the prize money in eventing. “It’s far too low given the cost of the sport, the risks involved and the skill and hard work required from both horse and rider,” she honestly states.

When asked what she believes is the most common negative aspect she sees in horses that are competing in horse trials, Piggy says that riders who have a lack of understanding and patience when something goes wrong when competing or training frustrates her. “Too many riders are far too quick to blame the horse, rather than to look at what they might have done that made things go wrong in the first place,” she explains.

There are many ups and downs to be had in the world of horse sports - but Piggy says it is the training and improving – not just her horses, but of herself too - that really keep her driven to continue in the field of eventing. “There’s always something to aim for, and there’s always room for improvement, which is challenging and yet rewarding,” she tells us.

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When asked what she dislikes most about the industry, she candidly says that it is the heartbreak of injury to a really good horse. “It takes so much to bring a horse to top level, and to be ready to compete at an Olympic Games, for it all to disappear because of injury, is extremely tough,” she says. “But you have to tell yourself, tomorrow is another day.” (Piggy famously missed out on the chance to compete at the 2012 Olympic

Games, when her top ride DHI Topper W was ruled out of the event.)

Piggy says the horse she covets most is the now-retired Lenamore, ridden by Caroline Powell, who took the great grey to two Olympic Games. “He’s just a legend, with

great heart,” Piggy states.

She believes that the key elements that make a successful sports horse are temperament and heart. “The horse has to have the desire and guts to do what we ask of him, but the temperament to keep it all together when it counts the most is key,” she concludes.

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23/05/2014 16:10

Xxxxxxxxxx Healthcare

Wound dressing helped Dancer back to health!

B

ack in April 2013 when Milton Keynesbased rider, Charlotte Woolhead, and her sister, Ellie, went down the yard to fetch the horses in to go hacking, they were faced with a horrific scene.

Charlotte’s 13-year-old ex-race horse, Dancer, was standing in a pool of blood, resting a back leg which was gaping wide open.

Although he was standing still and waiting to be fetched in very calmly, Charlotte believed he had somehow got caught on the wire fence.

Charlotte told Equi-Ads: “I was horrified. I think I even screamed! My sister was great - she was on the phone straight away and our local vet Elaine Horan, told us that we should take him to Blueberry Farm to get him x-rayed and seen by a specialist veterinary surgeon. I was so distressed I passed out on the way to the

centre. Luckily Dancer was calm and showed positive signs, putting his hoof down and bearing some weight.”

“At Blueberry Farm we met vets Gavin Hamer and Cedric Chan. Dancer was then sedated and x-rayed which showed a clean, sliced wound and Cedric talked us through some options for treatment.”

“He recommended using Equi-Med Ag wound dressing with the activated carbon silver fabric, which, until then, I had never heard of. Cedric was very confident this would do the job and help his wound heal well, so we agreed to go down that route without the need for skin grafts and minimal debriding. He cleaned Dancer’s wound and tidied it up before dressing the wound”, which took just over five months to heal and was signed off from the vets in September 2013.

Added Charlotte: “We were originally told that it would take over a year for a wound like Dancer’s to heal completely, but with the Equi-

Before

After

Med Ag wound dressing the results were much quicker. I truly believe that without wound dressing and the constant support from Elaine and Gavin Dancer’s leg wouldn’t have healed so well and so quickly.”

Charlotte and Dancer are now enjoying hacking out together and will be working towards some endurance rides, along with some show jumping and cross country events this season.

For more information on all of the EquiMed Ag products, how they work and what other ailments they can be used for please visit www.EquiMedAg.co.uk or call on 0191 5118323 or 0777 5577165.

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Xxxxxxxxxx Healthcare

Wound care...with Robinson Animal Healthcare I

t is thought that by reducing the level of infection and establishing a clean wound environment, owners can help speed up the rate of healing in horses suffering from open or infected wounds. Serious injuries should always be attended by a veterinary surgeon as soon as possible.

Wound Types (by trauma)

• • • • • •

Puncture – small skin penetration Avulsion – flap of skin Incised – sharply incised with little trauma Lacerated – torn skin edges, contamination and trauma Abrasion – surface layers worn off, contamination Shear – extreme abrasion, deep layers affected

Management of Open & Infected Wounds

• • • • • •

Reduce wound contamination – clean the wound and keep it clean.

If the area is infected, use a poultice such as Animalintex® to draw out the pus and change it every 12 hours.

Check your horse’s vital signs (temperature, pulse and respiration) every few hours.

Promote formation of granulation tissue – do not interfere with the body’s natural repair process e.g. disturbing the wound when not necessary.

Remove devitalised (dead) tissue – carried out by your veterinary surgeon if necessary.

Encourage wound contraction and epithelialisation – maintain a clean, moist wound environment.

(continued on page 40)

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June 2014 | 23

23/05/2014 16:10

Saddlery • Bitting

WHATS IN YOUR HORSE’S MOUTH? by Dr. Amy McLean - Equine Lecturer and Equine Extension Specialist, University Of Wyoming

(This article is sponsored by Tom Balding Bits and Spurs (www. tombalding.com). All photos are provided by Tom Balding Bits and Spurs and are intended for the sole use in this article). A Happy Horse starts with a Happy Mouth: Horse pacifiers – rollers, copper, & rust Finding the right bit for your horse is a huge key to how successful you are in getting the most out of your horse’s performance. A happy horse starts by being happy with what’s in its mouth. There are many options for bits and not all horses like the same mouthpiece in their bit. Granted, some times it’s not the bit, but whose hands the bit is in, that can ultimately determine if the horse is responsive or accepting.

Generally, good signs that a horse has accepted, or actually approves of, its bit are the way the horse will carry his head and neck as well as relaxing in its jaw. A horse that is “soft”, or accepting of the bit, is flexing at the poll and throat latch, relaxed at the jaw, as well as not mouthing the bit; meaning constantly chewing on the bit or tossing and slinging its head. If

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one sees their horse displaying such behaviour, it’s always a good idea to have your horse’s teeth checked as well as consider your horse’s equipment such as the bit, the curb (if it has one), etc.

A horse that is quiet in the mouth and not displaying any adverse behaviour, such as tossing its head and neck, is typically a content horse. Another major sign to look for is if the horse is producing salvia. Various metals used to make bits, such as cooper or sweet iron, will help increase salvia production in your horse’s mouth. This is a good sign the horse is responding positively to the bit; not a sign a horse has been administered a pharmacological agent to relax or produce extra saliva. Increased salvia production will increase the effectiveness of the bit to properly roll and rotate in the horse’s mouth.

So, what type of bit does your horse wear? If your mouthpiece is shiny and the colour of silver then it’s probably not sweet iron or cooper. A shiny silver coloured bit is more than likely stainless steel or a combination of metals. Many bits are made of

stainless because it stays shiny and is thus appealing to many horsemen due to its appearance. Another metal that is some times used is aluminium and generally associated with a more economy type bit. Some horseman do use bits made of rubber or synthetic materials. Such bits may be used to start young horses but the rubber can provoke a horse to “chew on the bit” and this is something one should avoid. A sweet iron bit or mouthpiece will generally be brown in colour and over time will even rust; which is a positive thing. Most horsemen prefer a sweet iron or cooper mouthpiece as the horse finds these most palatable.

Most of your bits that are made of such materials like cooper or sweet iron will not be inexpensive. The cost of copper and special metals are continually rising; but remember you get what you pay for, especially when it comes to bits. Many bit makers design bits to encourage a horse to be more accepting of the bit by adding mouth pieces that help the horse to stay quiet in mouth as well as prevent the horse from wanting to put its tongue over the bit. Such mouthpieces may include a port that has a roller. Most often the rollers are made of either copper or sweet iron. The roller aides in the production of salvia as well as keep the horse occupied inside its mouth; allowing for the horse to relax and

accept the bit. Rollers are often seen in traditional cathedral bits, but keep in mind the roller itself does not affect the severity of the bit. The same is true for the port. A taller port may or may not be as harsh as a lower port or even a snaffle in the wrong hands. Ideally, we want to keep the horse comfortable and accepting of the bit. Some of the first types of pacifiers for horses were keys that were added to bits. The keys simply hung from the centre of the mouthpiece and helped increase saliva production as well as acceptance. The mouthpiece of the bit can help the horse respond to the bit from calming a nervous tongue to making the horse softer in its jaw.

When selecting a bit for your horse consider the size of your horse’s mouth, the level of training your horse has, the rules for the event you are using your horse for, and last but not least consider purchasing a hand made bit that’s custom to your horse’s need. A happy horse starts with what’s in its mouth!

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23/05/2014 16:10

Saddlery Xxxxxxxxxx • Bitting

BIttIng AdVIcE

Tricia Nassau-Williams & Abbey England offers advice to a readers on bitting...

Question: I have tried my horse in so many bits

but she never seems comfortable. She constantly seems to mouth at the bit and mess with it. My dentist has checked her teeth and there doesn’t seem to be any physical reason so I want to choose a suitable bit and then find a trainer to help me solve this problem. What kind of bit would you recommend?

Answer: It is good that you have had your

horse’s mouth and teeth checked. The next step is to make sure that there is nothing else that is causing her discomfort. I suggest that you get her back and saddle checked and then focus on her mouth conformation. The key to comfortably bitting your horse will be to find a bit that suits her mouth type and shape. That way she will be able to relax and work with the bit. Your suggestion of getting a trainer is a very good one because they can observe the two of you working together and give progressive ongoing advice over a period of time.

I would encourage you to find a trainer first and then work on selecting the bit.

Ask for them to help you assess your horse’s mouth conformation. Does she have a long or short mouth, thick or slim tongue, high or low palate (roof of the mouth), sharp or rounded bars and so on. All of these details are important for correct bit selection, for example; A horse with a full mouth is often happier in a finer bit, a horse with a low palate will require a bit that is shaped to sits clear of the

Dressage

Showjumping

roof of their mouth without placing pressure on the palate unintentionally. A horse with long slim mouth and tongue may well be happier in a broad fat mouthpiece. If he has particularly long lips any bit with a curb chain my not suit him as the curb chain may sit above the chin groove. With a good trainer and bit supplier you should be guided to a sensible selection of bits to try and these may vary as your work progresses.

Generally speaking I would start off as simply as possible and avoid bitting up if you can. Try using different alloys and materials, you may find that a bit with a high copper content or a synthetic mouthpiece are just the answer. For some horses working in a bitless bridle is the answer. Seek one to one expert advice regarding this and always use a bitless bridle in a safe environment.

Also be prepared to look at your own riding in a critical light. Are you balanced in the saddle? Do you have a soft and rewarding contact with still hands? It can be helpful to get a friend to video you for some selfassessment.

There are some horses that just have the habit of fidgeting with their bit but normally it is possible to find a bit and tack they are happy to work in, even if it takes you a while to get there. Don’t give up.

For more information please contact Abbey England on 01565 650343 or visit www.ridingbitz.com or www. abbeyengland.com.

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Training (continued from page 18) is being told to go and stop at the same time, which even a creature of supposedly superior intellect such as a human could not do. Because, in foundation training, horses learn that pressure on both sides of their mouths means ‘slow down’, ‘stop’ or ‘go backwards and pressure on both of their sides means ‘go forward’, riders often end up with a completely confused horse, not surprisingly, when they obey such instructions because they trust their trainer.

It is irrational to expect a horse to understand that the slow/stop/back aid from the bit also means ‘bring your muzzle closer to your chest and arch your neck’. It is still popularly taught and believed that physically putting a horse into this posture, whether ridden, in hand or doing ground-work such as lungeing or long-reining, is putting him on the bit. A correctly trained horse puts himself on the bit when he has developed the musculature to carry his weight more off the forehand and slightly more towards his hindquarters because it is a natural function of his head-and-neck balancing pole to stretch the neck forward (and, later, up) and flex vertically (correctly termed ‘longitudinally’) at the poll. Being on the bit, in this respect, is a result of correct work, time and strengthening, and no amount of coercion from the front end will produce it, although it might look as though it has.

BRINGING LIGHTNESS OUT OF THE DARK A correct equestrian education will produce good horsemen and women who want a responsive horse who goes with impulsion from the hindquarters and is light in hand. The concept of lightness seems, in my experience as a teacher and trainer, to be scarcely taught by modern, conventionally-trained instructors, and to be generally mistaken by riders to mean lack of connection with the horse’s mouth. Some are frightened of hurting their horses’ mouths while, at the other extreme, others believe that they have to hold on tightly to their horses’ heads and ‘hold them up’ or they will lose their balance (and this usually in a bridle with an over-tight noseband and a too-high bit).

Without getting into the topic of horses not needing bits or even bridles, the above misconceptions are both counterproductive and the second one, in my view, is cruel although I appreciate that it is often taught. So where does lightness come from and how do you get it?

It has always been The Goal in true classical riding, of course, and it now is in the discipline of equitation science – which, I should stress, is a discipline of scientifically proven techniques appropriate for any horse or pony whatever he or she is used for. It is a way of training which is understandable to the horse, ethical and which develops light responses right from the early stages of foundation training so that horses go in independent balance and, thereby, develop the correct musculature to enable them to go

WIN

well and to carry a rider safely, without being contorted into postures which not only prevent this but also cause injuries to horses’ bodies.

In early training, an aid may need to be given with a firm and increasing level of pressure, and sustained for a few seconds, before the horse gives the right response. Very quickly, the horse will respond more quickly and to a lighter and lighter pressure, to prevent that pressure.

Pretty soon, after a very few tries, the horse will respond almost instantly and before the pressure becomes more than a light touch. This method is, or should be, applied in any discipline. As the horse’s body strengthens and his balance (under, hopefully, a well-balanced rider) can be carried back somewhat, off his forehand where it is naturally, the horse will give the rider the feel of being pushed from under her seat up and forward in an arc – and this, in good training, is achieved without force or being strapped up and down with equipment, but because of time being given for unhindered development.

THE BAD OLD DAYS ARE STILL HERE There will always be people who actually like dominating other living creatures, but let’s stick to horses. There will also always be good and bad trainers, handlers and riders. There is, even now, an attitude that you have to show a horse who’s Boss, that the horse is merely a tool or vehicle for human aspirations, or to make some human or other look good. Cruel practices in ‘breaking in’ still take place every day, such as merciless whipping, forcible ‘training’ (abuse) with misuse of bits, spurs, gadgets, even throwing horses (on to the ground) to make them supposedly submit to human desires, and ‘sacking out’ or flicking them while down with sacks to ‘get them used to it’, leaving them strapped up in equipment while standing for long periods in their boxes (one minute is too long) to ‘develop their topline’ or, believe it or not, get them used to the bit, and many other torture tricks I don’t want to put into print. Of course, none of these will produce a psychologically healthy horse or pony and cannot be described as an effective or acceptable way to break a horse in, no matter how timehonoured they may be.

‘Chasing’ techniques As prey animals, horses innately dislike being

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chased. A few may turn round and chase the chaser, but mostly they become alarmed and even frightened by anything resembling pursuit – and that can include lungeing, longreining and round-pen work, depending on the temperament of the horse or pony concerned.

A few phlegmatic animals may not seem to be worried, but most can be easily distressed by any of these techniques when badly carried out.

Alarm soon escalates into fear, and fear responses in horses are very hard to erase: after all, they relate directly to survival.

Lungeing is very often done at too fast a speed and on too small a circle, with a view to teaching a horse to ‘go forward’. As I have explained several times in this series, ‘forward’ does not mean ‘fast’ in its original, correct meaning. A ‘forward’ horse is one ready to obey aids instantly, lightly and with energy. Lungeing a horse fast, in restrictive equipment and/or certainly on a circle less than 20m in diameter makes injuries to joints, backs, feet and the body in general quite likely. In addition there is the damage to the horse’s mind and attitude, and his heart and lungs.

Round-pen work can have the same effect: also, recent studies and increasing knowledge of how horses think and learn seem to be showing that the accepted idea of the horse coming to regard the human as the Boss and bonding with her or him is not what really happens. Watch this space.

Although the trainer is often directly behind a horse on long-reins, this seems to be the least potentially damaging ‘chasing’ technique.

However, some very experienced practitioners work horses on long reins more from the side and on even smaller circles than when lungeing, with much the same effects.

LEARN MORE AT: The Classical Riding Club (www.classicalriding.co.uk), the International Society for Equitation Science (www.equitationscience.com), EquiSci for the UK (www.equitationscience.co.uk), the Australian Equine Behaviour Centre (www.aebc. org.au) and the Equine Behaviour Forum (www. equinebehaviourforum.org.uk). Also, follow up the links and publications on each site.

(The Equine Behaviour Forum published the full glossary in its magazine ‘Equine Behaviour’.

For your copy, send a cheque for £3.50 payable to ‘Equine Behaviour Forum’ to the Editor, Dr Alison Averis, 6 Stonelaws Cottages, East Linton, East Lothian, EH40 3DX.) SUSAN McBANE has an HNC in Equine Science and Management, is a Classical Riding Club listed trainer and Gold Award holder, cofounder of the Equine Behaviour Forum and a Practitioner Member of the International Society for Equitation Science. Author of 44 books, she is a co-publisher of ‘Tracking-up’ (see advert this issue). For lessons and clinics in and near Lancashire, ring 01254 705487 or email horses@susanmcbane.com

HOW TO ENTER

To be in with the chance of winning a pair of your choice answer the following question.

Where were the international horse trials held in Derbyshire in May? Email your entry to kirsty@equi-ads.net or by post to High Peak, Equi-Ads Ltd., 126, Derby Road, Long Eaton, Notts. NG10 4LS. Please include your telephone number. Six winners will be drawn at random on July 1st. www.equi-ads.com

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Healthcare

Castration What’s the Risk?

Ben Sturgeon, Bsc, BVM&S, Cert EP, MRCVS

A

lthough castrations are routine procedures, the risk for complications remains. And while most complications are generally mild, some have life-threatening implications.

Complications that result from castration include scrotal swelling, oedema (fluid swelling), hemorrhage, incisional infections, bacterial infection of the spermatic cord, omental (a fold of fatty yellow abdominal tissue surrounding the organs) herniation, eventration (a segment of small intestine travels from the abdomen through the inguinal canal), penile trauma, hydrocele formation (a collection of fluid within the vaginal cavity, where the testicle resided), and peritonitis (inflammation of the membrane lining the abdomen).

Most postoperative complications are mild and not considered lifethreatening, but eventration, hemorrhage, and peritonitis may be fatal.

A study in the Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association of 324 castrations determined if any factors were associated with complications following routine castration. If complications were identified, they were classified as Grade I (complications more than 24 hours after surgery not requiring emergency treatment), Grade 2 (complications requiring more intensive emergency management 24 hours or less after surgery), or Grade 3 (complications resulting in death or euthanasia).

From medical records, 33 of the 324 (10.2%) experienced complications with only one complication proving fatal (0.3%).

Additionally, complications associated with castration were mild in nature. Of the 33 horses that developed complications, 25 were classified as Grade 1, seven as Grade 2, and one as Grade 3.

Grade 1 complications included mild scrotal swelling in five horses, seroma (fluid accumulation in the tissues that can become infected) formation in 11 horses, infection or abscess at the surgical site in seven horses, and fever with respiratory signs in two horses.

Grade 2 complications included hemorrhage in six horses and tissue protruding from the incision site in one case. The Grade 3 complication was a small intestine eventration and was the only complication to result in euthanasia. The remaining 32 horses recovered with

appropriate therapy without further complications.

Horses can be castrated using three different surgical techniques; open, closed or semi-closed. When an open castration is performed the parietal tunic (the sac or lining surrounding the testis) is incised allowing direct crushing or emasculation of the spermatic cord.

Using the closed and semi-closed techniques the parietal tunic is removed with the testis. Vets chose different techniques based on the breed of horse, age, temperament, size of the testicles and spermatic cord as well as individual experience with each technique.

Unusually because most castrations undertaken by vets use the open technique, all of the horses included in the study were castrated using closed or semiclosed techniques. In the study 247 horses were castrated using the closed technique, with 15 (6.1%) of those animals developing problems. The semi-closed technique was performed on 77 horses; with 18 (23.8%) developing complications suggesting the latter had significantly higher odds of developing complications after surgery, making surgical technique selection a risk factor for complication development. The reasons for this difference include the need for more tissue handling with the semi-closed procedure, increased contamination potential, and/or longer surgery duration than with other techniques due to the extra dissection required.

The majority of the castrations were performed (90.4%) under general anesthesia, 28 (9.6%) of which developed complications.

The remaining 31 horses were castrated standing with local sedation. All of the horses castrated standing were older than one year, and five (16.1%) developed complications.

It was also found that, of horses castrated under general anesthesia, additional anaesthetics to maintain anaesthesia were administered to 201 horses. It was determined that these horses, receiving additional anesthetic, had a significantly higher complication rate than horses that didn’t receive additional www.equi-ads.com

23/05/2014 16:10

T

Healthcare anaesthetics suggesting the need for additional anaesthetics could highlight these surgeries taking a longer time to perform.

Finally, although there was no association between age and complication development, horses that were castrated via the semiclosed technique were typically older than those castrated via the closed method and horses castrated via the semi-closed technique had significantly higher odds of developing a complication.

Putting this all together it would appear that a semi-closed technique carries with it the most risk, followed by open standing technique and finally a closed castration under general anaesthesia. Unfortunately, an owner may have little option in the desired technique and immediate treatment but there are several factors post-operatively that can influence the likelihood of complications: • Box rest with restricted exercise is recommended for the first 12 hours to prevent hemorrhage.

Hemorrhage can occur during, immediately after, or several days after surgery. Some bleeding is to be expected, but when it doesn’t reduce or stop it should be addressed. True hemorrhage from the spermatic cord could be

life-threatening.

• Following this initial period, turnout and forced exercise consisting of hand walking or trotting twice daily for up to 14 days is of utmost importance to help reduce swelling, the risk of the incisions closing prematurely, and seroma formation. Swelling can be painful and might inhibit ability to exercise causing the wound edges to seal prematurely, compounding problems and creating a barrier to proper drainage. Simply turning a horse out into pasture will not necessarily ensure sufficient movement to promote drainage, and the benefits of forced exercise cannot be overemphasized. Cold water hosing, and administration of non-steroidal antiinflammatory drugs are also used to reduce swelling as necessary.

If left, the skin edges on the outside seal over before healing internally effectively trapping fluid and potentially infection in the space where the testicle was. Post-castration infection usually causes excessive swelling of the scrotal area and sheath, a depressed attitude and appetite and fever over 102.5 degrees.

• Monitor the horse for excessive swelling (usually most swelling is noted four to five days after

surgery), drainage from the incisions, signs of colic, and evidence of tissue protruding from the surgical sites. The most dangerous of all the castration complications is eventration.

In this scenario, something inside the abdomen, intestines or omentum, pushes through the incision site. The first 24 hours post-castration is critical.

Eventration of the omentum is less dangerous than eventration of the intestines, less expensive, and can be treated while the horse is standing but anything hanging from the site is cause for an immediate call to your vet. The incisions usually heal by three weeks after surgery.

• Isolate the new gelding from mares. A recently castrated gelding can still get a mare in foal for some time after castration because of sperm remaining in the conducting system of the urogenital tract. Recently castrated geldings should be kept away from females for at least 30 days.

If there are any concerns you should always call your vet.

While stallions can be gelded at any age, ideally the procedure should be performed at a younger age, from 6 months to 2 years before masculine behavior becomes

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too difficult to manage. Also, younger horses tend to have smaller testicles with less redundant scrotal tissue present postoperatively, which can interfere with drainage.

It is finally important to stress that the possible risks associated with castration should not deter you from choosing to geld, the risks associated with the procedure are low, and most complications resolve easily with appropriate treatment.

The benefits of castration far outweigh the risks associated with the procedure.

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Xxxxxxxxxx Feeding

nUtRItIOn FOcUS

I

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.)

Q. How Will the quality of my feed be affected by the way I store it in the summer?

Carla Danes, Beaworthy A. This is something that is often overlooked! A warm horse feed can quickly become rancid and spoiled, risking equine health if ingested.

Horse feed storage doesn’t have to be a difficult process, yet many horse owners don’t give it a second thought, with feed often being stored in an un-sanitised container, in direct sunlight and even in an open bag in the corner of the yard!

Without correctly storing your horse’s feed, not only will you attract rodents to your yard but also the growth of mould and the presence of bugs and insects can quickly and easily outbreak without you even noticing. Feed may look un-spoilt, however pests can ruin your feed beyond repair and cause it to be completely unpalatable to your horse.

In addition, leaving your feed in a hot and humid environment or in a nonsanitised container can result in your concentrate feed becoming dried out and diminished of valuable nutrients, seriously limiting its nutritional value. The majority of nutrients begin to break down when exposed to heat and sunlight, and the presence of moisture can accelerate this process. Remember, the higher the fat or oil content in the feed, the quicker your feed will go rancid, if left in a hot environment.

Using a storage system that can be sealed and locked, such as the Chestnut Horse Feeds Bulk Bin Feeding System, you can keep your precious feed clean, safe and away from contaminants. Chestnut Horse Feeds deliver the Bulk Bin directly to your yard and collect and replenish once it is empty.

Q. I want to give my driving pony a higher energy feed and have been advised that oil is useful for working horses. What are the benefits of high oil feeds?

Dan Weston, Aberdeen A. Adding oil, such as soya or corn oil to horse feed, has been a standard practice for many years and is very beneficial to many types of horses and ponies. Some

30 | June 2014

Equi_Ads_June_National.indd 30

Bill Wooliscroft of Chestnut Horse Feeds shares his expertise...

oils, such as linseed or canola are a rich source of omega 3 fatty acids, known to help promote healthy skin and a shiny, glossy coat. Starch based diets can result in ‘fizzy’ behaviour or may upset fermentation in hind gut. An oil-rich feed on the other hand offers slow release energy, which helps to maintain excellent condition without inducing unwanted behaviour, and is kind to the horse’s hindgut, as less starch-rich cereal is required. Because oil is so energy dense, adding it to the feed allows horse owners to safely increase the calorie content of the diet and improve stamina without the need to supply a large bucket of bulky feed. This is particularly beneficial in highly-strung competition horses who may be picky eaters.

There are many different types of oil on the market; soya oil in particular is very well digested and commonly found in horse feed - it helps to maintain condition.

You may add oil separately, or choose a feed already containing oil. When looking at feeds containing oil, products that contain 10% or more will be beneficial for equines that needs extra energy or condition, but can be a bit ‘sharp’.

Bear in mind that the level of certain antioxidants such as vitamin E in the diet are important to protect the body against the negative effects of free radicals that are produced as a natural consequence of exercise.

For more information about the Bulk Bin Feeding System or Chestnut Horse Feeds’ wide range, visit www.chestnuthorsefeeds.co.uk or tel: 01455 558808

SO kAlM E

quine America So Kalm Solution. The main ingredients in So Kalm are L-Tryptophan and Magnesium. L-Tryptophan is a naturally occurring amino acid responsible for controlling concentration and excitement. Therefore, supplemental L-Tryptophan is an excellent choice for highly strung, young horses or those with a lack of focus.

Magnesium plays an important role in nerve health, with a lack of magnesium in the diet being associated with anxiety and tension. So Kalm may need a 4-5 day build up and can be fed on a long term basis. So Kalm Solution fed daily can aid concentration and willingness to work, but without removing the edge required for competition. Suitable for nervous, excitable and young horses. Available in 946ml RRP £24.99. www.equine-america.co.uk Tel 01403 255809.

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23/05/2014 16:10

News Xxxxxxxxxx • Healthcare

top tip Supplement treats HORSES cOlOUR ME BEAUtIFUllY! I B f you’re looking for a cost effective way to provide your horse with vitamins and minerals, this is the product for you…and you don’t need to add it to a bucket of hard feed!

Tip Top Supplement Treats are delicious and contain a broad spectrum of vitamins and minerals to help support a healthy horse.

Each treat is packed full of goodness and can be fed from the hand (just as you would a treat) or sprinkled on top of feed. With just seven treats per day required for most horses, a 1.5kg bag lasts for 30 days, making it excellent value for money!

Tip Top Supplement Treats have a RRP of £10.50.

Pro-Bio Supplement Equimins’ Pro-Bio Supplement combines a high specification, broad spectrum of vitamins and minerals with probiotics.

The powdered supplement contains generous levels of Lactobacillus acidophilus and Bifidobacterium to help support a well balanced gut and healthy digestive system. It also contains Saccharomyces cerivisae yeast to help the digestion of fibre and for maximum utilisation of feed. Add to this an exceptional range of vitamins and minerals, and you have a great ‘general purpose’ supplement that delivers a whole lot extra!

Pro-Bio Supplement is available in 1.5kg and 3kg tubs. Prices start from £17.99.

For more information see www.equimins.com, email sales@equimins.com or call 01548 531770.

ling Bandages are brand new and offer an irresistible and ‘on trend’ combination of colour and sparkle with their delicate contour of ‘Bling’ and delicious colour pallet of Caramel, Lilac, Navy and Green.

And if these bandages leave you wanting more, style conscious equestrians can also buy matching fly veils and saddlecloths!

Bandages: RRP: £36.00 (Set of four) Crystal Trim Fly Veils RRP: £36.00 Crystal Plaiting Saddle cloths: £79.00 www.dressagedeluxe.co.uk

Equine Products

Matchmakers strengthen management team A

riat -Europe have lost their managing director Phil Duff who has left to join the re-structured Matchmakers International.

Phil, along with cochairmen Edward Wakefield and Oliver Hoare will be re-invigorating established brands including Harry Hall; Caldene; Masta; Cottage Craft and Tottie.

glitter gel E

quimins’ Glitter Gel is available in gold, silver and pink/green and can be added as needed for glitz and glamour. The glitter is held in a clear gel, making it suitable for all coat colours. Glitter Gel is available in 100g tubs that have a RRP of £4.45 each.

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Equi_Ads_June_National.indd 31

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June 2014 | 31

23/05/2014 16:10

Xxxxxxxxxx Training

Your first BE80 event – are you ready? By Jenny Richardson BHSAI

R

esearch your first affiliated horse trials event carefully, ideally local; once you have your date set and the entry sent off, you then have your goal to work towards. Whatever time span you have to work within, plan your horse’s work regime to increase horse and rider fitness as the day approaches.

These are a few of the most important boxes for you to tick, in preparation for your eventing debut at 80 cm:

The Dressage Phase: You should acquire a copy of the test you will be doing and commit it to memory (even if you need a caller on the day to overcome nerves, you must have a thorough understanding of the order and rhythm of the sequence of movements). If you find certain parts more challenging than others, slip these into your training exercises during your flatwork, hopefully turning them into your strong points rather than weak ones. Do run through the complete test a few times beforehand as you need to peak on the day and produce the best work possible.

The Showjumping Phase: As you will be jumping an 80cm course, ideally you should be happy and confident a little above this height to make it seem easier on the day. Ensure you have hired a similar venue with a full course of fences, complete with fillers and that you can negotiate all types of fences without fear, including doubles, distances, dog-legs, etc. If you struggle with anything in particular, again, include this in your homework until it is your strength, rather than your weakness. Ultimately if you can go to a venue, warm up over a few practice jumps, then complete the course without error, you are ready for this phase.

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The Cross-Country Phase: If your Event is to be local, you may be able to hire their course beforehand and, although the route may differ, you will have been able to cross the terrain, negotiate some of the obstacles and have a feel for the going and the way the course rides. Stay at your comfort height of 80cm or just above, it is not good practice to overface horse or rider at this stage.

Negotiating ditches and small drops and having confidence in water are all important, as you can expect these questions at your event. When competing, you shouldn’t ask your horse to jump a type of obstacle he has never seen before.

Once you are comfortably achieving these guidelines, you should feel upbeat about your event and an enjoyable day will lie ahead. Time must be allowed for careful course-walking beforehand (usually done the day before) and on the day, be sure to note the time allowed and plan your route accordingly. Ensure you have a check list of items to take; that all tack and equipment is clean and safe and that you have a first aid box for both of you. Take enough rugs and warm clothing for whatever the

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23/05/2014 16:10

Training

weather can throw at you, and have a reasonable timetable leading up to your departure from home so that you avoid any rush and stress. Allow more time than you think for anything unexpected and for possible queues at the Secretary’s office. It is always a good idea to get together with likeminded friends and enjoy the day out together as well as providing each other with practical help and moral support.

If you need XC practice, consider a training break at a leading venue.

Jenny Richardson BHSAI is Equestrian Centre Business Manager at Ireland’s Castle Leslie Estate, a venue that offers luxurious equestrian riding holidays and training breaks in the heart of Ireland. The team welcomes riders of all abilities and age groups and offers expert tuition, gentle hacks and exhilarating cross-country rides over an extensive XC course. Visit www.castleleslie.com

Make the right move.

Trust the Equestrian Insurance Experts Whether you are moving home, starting a new yard, need liability cover or want to insure your equestrian business. SEIB can help.

Health Licks

R

ockies’ Health Licks are calorie free but still packed full of vital minerals to help replace missing goodness.

Each molasses free lick contains salt, vital minerals and trace elements to help support health. The flavourings used really appeal to the horse, but as it’s molasses free and salt is self limiting, it can be offered in a free access fashion. On top of all this, the 2kg blocks are excellent value for money and are built to last as the high pressure presses used to create them give each lick ‘in built harness’ to ensure licks don’t crumble and break like inferior products.

Health Licks are available in carrot, cherry, mint, apple and garlic flavours and each lick is 2 kg in size. They have a RRP of £3.08.

Five Star Five Star is a great way to supplement the horse’s diet with minerals, trace elements, herbs and more…and you don’t even need a feed to add it to!

The 5kg hard pressed mineralised salt lick contains Bioplex Zinc for the hooves and coat, cod liver oil, iron, seaweed, rosehip and fenugreek.

It can be fed all year round to help promote health and condition, and is ideal for those who are weight watching.

Five Star can be offered in a free access manner either in the stable, field shelter or in a covered position in the field as the manufacturing process ensures that the lick will last. It’s available in 5kg blocks, which have a RRP of £7.19.

For more information, see www.rockies.co.uk, email info@rockies. co.uk or call 01606 595025.

With 50 years insurance experience and an extensive knowledge of equestrian insurance SEIB speaks your language. There are significant discounts for BHS approved establishments and a free risk assessment pack that has been very successful with aiding the defence of personal injury claims with each policy.

For riding school, livery yard, stud liability, equestrian business or home with stables call SEIB for a quote.

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23/05/2014 16:10

Feeding Xxxxxxxxxx • Healthcare

Vitamins and Minerals By Sarah Nelson, T.E.N. Nutritionist A

lthough required in relatively small amounts, vitamins and minerals are a fundamental part of the horse’s diet. Most of us accept that a balanced diet is important, but how much attention do we really pay to these small but powerful nutrients?

The Basics Vitamins are categorised as either fat soluble or water soluble, depending on how they are dissolved and then either stored or excreted by the body. Through association with fat, fat soluble vitamins are absorbed and then stored in the horse’s liver or fat tissue. The majority of water soluble vitamins cannot be stored and after absorption into the bloodstream, excesses are excreted in the urine.

Is forage enough?

Whilst forage and in particular fresh green grass can provide a valuable source of vitamins and minerals, forage alone is unlikely meet daily requirements, particularly for copper, zinc and selenium. Even in fresh grass, vitamin and mineral levels may vary considerably and those in hay and haylage will degrade over time. Horses are able to synthesise their own vitamin C (from glucose in the liver) and through the fermentation of fibre, synthesise B-vitamins.

However, the full extent to which they can be absorbed and used, particularly in the case of B-vitamins is unknown.

Recommended Daily Intake (RDI) The National Research Council (NRC) is responsible for standardising nutritional requirements and set the RDIs and where appropriate, maximum tolerable or ‘toxic’ levels. However, RDIs are set based on the levels required to avoid deficiency and, in some cases, further supplementation of specific vitamins and minerals may help may be helpful. Some examples of this include: •

•

Biotin (one of the eight B-vitamins) – elevated levels of biotin have been seen to improve hoof health/ quality and growth. Additional copper and zinc may also be helpful.

Vitamin C – supplementary vitamin C has been shown to reach the fluid lining the lungs and may therefore be helpful for performance horses, those prone to respiratory conditions such as RAO and horses that are stabled or travelled for long periods • Vitamin E –may be helpful in supporting muscle health, particularity

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Fat Soluble A

vitamins Key Functions Vision, growth, reproduction, bone development, immune function

D E

Required for the absorption & regulation of calcium Powerful antioxidant important for immunity and muscle health K Blood clotting & protein synthesis Water Soluble Key Functions B-complex

Enzyme components & energy metabolism

C

Antioxidant. Important for respiratory & immune health Minerals Macro Key Functions Calcium (Ca) Muscle contraction, regulation of enzymes, cell membrane function & blood clotting. Bone & teeth structure Phosphorus (P) Bone & teeth structure. Energy metabolism Sodium (Na) Magnesium (Mg) Potassium (K) Sulphur (S) Micro Zinc (Zn) Copper (Cu) Iodine (I) Selenium (Se) Iron (Fe) Manganese (Mn) Cobalt (Co)

Major electrolyte, normal function of the nervous system Muscle contractions, activation of enzymes, energy metabolism, bone & teeth structure A major electrolyte. Important for muscle contraction & nerve function Skin, hair & hoof structure Key Functions Enzyme activation, immune function, tissue function & skin integrity Immune & nerve function, connective tissue structure, utilisation of iron Production & of thyroid hormones An antioxidant which works in combination with Vitamin E. Important for immune & enzyme function Oxygen uptake & storage Carbohydrate & lipid metabolism. Important for joint tissue (synthesis of chondroitin sulphate for cartilage formation) Component of vitamin B12

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Xxxxxxxxxx Travelling for horses prone to conditions such as tying-up Is it possible to overdose?

More does not automatically equal better, particularly when it comes to vitamin A and the minerals iodine, selenium and iron; all of which can be harmful if fed in excess (maximum tolerable levels also exist for sodium, copper, zinc and vitamin D). Minerals are also linked, meaning that an increase in one may affect the absorption of another. For this reason, it is important to ensure that minerals are kept in balance with each other, as well as avoiding individual deficiencies or toxicity. Examples of this include calcium and phosphorus which are required at a ratio of 1.5-2:1 and zinc to copper required at a ratio 3-4:1.

Safe Supplementing If manufactured by a reputable company and fed at the recommended levels, compound feeds, balancers and broad spectrum supplements should balance vitamin and mineral deficiencies in forage without reaching toxicity. When choosing a supplement, look for companies who clearly state how much of each active ingredient is included.

You should also be able to speak to a trained nutritionist who can advise you as to whether specific supplements can safely be fed together.

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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. “There are many roadside policies on offer, but remember you may require alternative transport for your horses as well as yourself and any passengers”” he picnic is packed, the waterproofs are in along with the sun-tan cream (because you just never know what you’re going to get!) and you’re on the way to your competition. Two hours into the journey, a warning light appears on the dashboard and you slowly

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they don’t tend to take into account that you may be transporting live cargo. Therefore you should look for a specific equine related breakdown policy which will contribute towards the costs of alternative stabling and transportation if it is required.

A breakdown policy can also help in the event that you cannot start your vehicle at home and require assistance. Most breakdown insurers will have access to a complete network of repairers and should be able to contact someone in your area to offer help. This could mean that you are still able to get to your competition on time rather than having to admit defeat and lose out on your entry.

Taking out cover from a dedicated equine insurer can help ensure you have adequate protection for any such incidents. This type of policy is available for both motorised horseboxes and car and trailers and is offered throughout Great Britain. Check the details of your policy to see what you are actually covered for and make sure you don’t make a stressful situation even more complicated by having to source your own transport to get your horses back home if you are travelling further afield.

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pull into a layby. Unless you are lucky enough to have any sort of mechanical training (or you have a mechanically-minded other half on speed dial) then chances are you will find yourself a bit stuck. This in itself is stressful enough, but add some horses into the equation and potentially a very busy road (depending on where you have broken down) and very quickly the situation can descend into panic.

Have you considered what you would do if you found yourself in this position? What if your vehicle cannot be fixed at the side of the road? How would you ensure your horses get to their intended destination or back home again, even if you are hundreds of miles from where you want to be? One simple solution would be to ensure you take out a specialist breakdown policy specifically designed for the transportation of horses. There are many roadside policies on offer, but it is important to consider that you may require alternative transport for your horses as well as yourself and any passengers. If you have a car and trailer, most standard motor breakdown policies will only cater for the towing vehicle and not the trailer (or its occupants!), because

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23/05/2014 16:10

Xxxxxxxxxx Saddlery

tHE ARt OF BESpOkE BRIdlES

Question:

I currently show at county level and am looking to qualify for HOYS this season. I am considering upgrading my bridle, will a bespoke handmade bridle help us to stand out from the crowd in the show ring?

Answer:

The Society of Master Saddlers replies: As we all know tack can lead to success or failure, whether it is down to aesthetics, fit or safety. A well selected, correctly fitting bridle can enhance the best points of a horse’s head and help disguise the less fortunate.

In showing a bridle is one of the most important pieces of equipment that can really show off your horse. A properly tailored bridle will be significantly more comfortable for your horse, reducing stress and anxiety whilst promoting responsiveness and controllability – ideal for the show ring.

Make sure you know the requirements and rules of your showing class so that you know what type of bridle you will need.

In showing presentation is everything and when only a fraction of a mark separates two animals, it is that attention to detail that can make all the difference.

Buying a bespoke bridle and having it made to measure guarantees that it will have an

excellent fit designed purely for your horse and to accentuate his best points. We recommend that you use a registered craft bridle-maker and our website can help you locate one in your area.

Look for a Qualified Saddler or Harness Maker or Master Saddler or Harness Maker The craft bridle-maker will come out and take all the necessary measurements of your horse’s head themselves. When this is not possible due to distances involved, the bridle-maker will provide clear detailed instructions that enable you to do this for them. They may also ask that you provide some good quality images of your horse’s head to help them design the bridle to suit your horse.

Many people think that having a bespoke bridle made is expensive but actually it represents extremely good value and will certainly be a worthwhile investment. It removes the guesswork and eliminates the need to ‘make do’ with the best that is available from the local tack shop.

A craft bridle-maker will use the finest leather materials and fittings meaning you will have the finest quality product Intricate stitching detail can be added to finish off the bridle if required or you can insert white piping detail on the noseband or browband to help stand out from the crowd.

Your craft bridle-maker can help advise you on what additions can be made in order to add that extra eye-catching detail.

To find out more information on The Society of Master Saddlers and to find your nearest Registered Qualified Saddle Fitter visit www. mastersaddlers.co.uk or contact on 01449 711642.

Carl told Equi-Ads about his new saddle!

W

hen Carl Hester was introduced to Geoff Fieldhouse and his top saddle fitter Helen Stone he tasked the pair with fitting some of his more difficult horses and was hugely impressed with the outcome.

The chance meeting with Carl took the range to a new level.

Carl’s fine tuning and ability to “feel” the difference in movement and balance enabled the team to add design details and enhance the saddle’s fit and performance.

The new shapes of modern day

sports horses were also thrown into the mix – as were the shapes and needs of the many other riders that Carl had sitting on these new saddles. Carl’s demand’s that his horses must be able to move freely and that nothing must impede their performance was at the heart of the development stage.

Appreciating that Hester had given this new saddle brand his time and knowledge GFS made him probably the largest sponsorship deal ever offered in the equestrian market. Carl accepted this and is now delighted

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36 | June 2014

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23/05/2014 16:10

Training

Super Star Show Jumper

C

ourtesy of Verdo Horse Bedding, the clever heat-treated wood pellet product, created for equine use, we caught up with sponsored rider, international showjumper Daniel Moseley for some essential tips and advice: “My top tips for show jumping success are don’t EVER neglect your flat work. No matter the age or level of your horse, teaching a horse for example to stay in a straight line from very early on will help you in the jump arena when you introduce fences. All our horses are worked on the flat regularly.

Working on transitions will also help your horse to develop the correct muscles to help him sit more on his hind leg, which will enable your horse to propel himself over the jumps more effectively and respond more quickly to a light leg aid.

As well as direct transitions, you can work on ‘half transitions, whereby you ask for the walk or trot slowing down the pace till you almost take that first step, but then push the horse on and

up, creating more uphill powerful strides and utilising that power in the hind leg.

When you are riding always pay attention to your own position, for example do you have equal contact, is one leg stronger than the other? One good exercise to try is to ‘bridge’ your reins to help you get an even feel and contact on the reins and check for straightness.

This also encourages the rider to ride from leg to hand instead of over using the hand to steer. To truly see if your horse is connected, give and take the inside rein and if the horse falls in then you know you are not using your inside leg!

Try and create distractions at home, which you may well find in an arena at a competition. Put these to the test to help focus your horse so that he is less likely to spook or allow him to take his eye off the fence and make costly mistakes. Remember as a rider to focus on the fence too or you could end up that water jump!

Remember that you don’t need to jump big fences to learn.

If you practice over smaller fences getting your distance right, it will make it easier when you come to jump bigger” www. verdohorsebedding. co.uk 01264 342 009 Photography: David Miller

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23/05/2014 16:10

Xxxxxxxxxx Healthcare

VETERAN COB BEATS FLIES, MUD ISSUES AND PUFFY LEGS A

tlas, a coloured cob aged 20, and blind in one eye from an accident, found the summer months a real torment as he was plagued with flies. His owner, Cathy Watson, tried different types of fly rugs, masks and sprays but he still ended up getting badly bitten until he bled, particularly around his sheath, and he rubbed his tail badly all year round.

Cathy decided to speak to Karen Ruggles at Ruggles & Stopitall who explained that when horses rub their tails or hindquarters, it is rarely the source of the itch, but that rubbing their tail is as close as a horse or any other large animal can get to where the itch actually is. In Atlas’ case, it was his sheath and under belly.

Cathy purchased a Starter Pack of the natural Ruggle-it shampoo and oil and followed the instructions carefully, diluting it with water to make an effective, long-lasting yet natural fly repellent. It had an immediate result – the

Atlas before

Atlas after

flies left him alone and he stopped itching all over. And, Cathy no longer required fly rugs or had to repair fences, and he grazed out all summer without a problem!

Mud Planner Atlas then developed hind leg troubles. The winter weather was very wet and there was a lot of mud around. He started to become resentful when Cathy was hosing the mud off his legs and didn’t like his feathers being clipped, which was unusual for him. So Cathy looked closer and discovered he had very tender heels, plus crusty patches on his tendons and mallenders (crusty cracks) behind his knees.

With Atlas’ legs oozing and extremely unhappy, the vet was called in for immediate action to help him fend off the vicious attack.

His legs were puffy and had folds of swollen skin but because of another chronic hind limb problem, he was already on daily pain management from the vet, otherwise Cathy believes he would have been lame with this outbreak. The ‘before’ picture was actually taken after the vet’s visit and not at its worst. He warned Cathy that the mallenders were virtually impossible to resolve, but she decided to give Ruggle-it a try - after all it had worked so well on the flies and can also be used on many

other skin issues, including those caused by mud – you just use the products differently depending on the problem.

Cathy used Ruggle-it Shampoo, Oil and Semi-Salve and followed the ‘Mud Planner’ to the letter.

At Karen’s strong encouragement, Cathy also gave him Protexin Equine Gut Balancer (‘pure’ probiotics) intensively to help his immune system try to fight the problem from the insides.

Cathy told Equi-Ads, “I simply couldn’t believe the difference in Atlas’ legs. The crusting, puffiness and tenderness backed off and within three weeks had completely gone!

I highly recommend Karen Ruggles’ system.”

The ‘after’ photo says it all.

See www.karenruggles.co.uk for detailed testimonials, ‘indepth’ information on the Ruggles & Stopitall Ltd natural product ranges (joints, immune, gut, skincare etc.) or to order a pack online for maximum discounts.

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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

38 | June 2014

Equi_Ads_June_National.indd 38

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Xxxxxxxxxx Healthcare

Anti-bacterial Skin Spray

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vailable in 200ml trigger spray, Barrier Animal Healthcare prides itself on top quality, effective products that you can trust at affordable prices.

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.

Anti-bacterial Skin Spray is a powerful yet gentle application containing a high percentage of Tea Tree Oil combined with further natural herbal concentrates known for their anti-bacterial, anti-fungal and anti-viral properties. Quickly absorbed into the skin, to ensure ideal conditions for natural healing without sealing the skin. Ideal to use on minor cuts, scrapes, insect bites, irritations, sore and cracked skin to help soothe, calm and stop irritation. FREE from all prohibited substances under current FEI & HRA rules.

Designed, Manufactured & Marketed by Barrier Animal Healthcare. Visit our website www.flyrepel.com

Destroy Ragwort A

vailable in 5L as a ‘Ready to Use’ Spot Spray, with Spray Gun Applicator.

Fully licensed (MAPP: 10136), environmentally friendly agricultural herbicide that destroys Ragwort in record time. Sold as a ready to use spot spray in a 5L container with applicator gun. Keep animals off treated areas for two weeks or until the plant is completely dead and any remaining debris removed.

Always read the labels : Use pesticides carefully.

Designed, Manufactured & Marketed by Barrier Animal Healthcare For full information visit our website www.ragwort.com

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The battle to keep weight gain at bay

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WITH ALL COMPLETE FLEXIRIDE ORDERS

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his time of the year is a constant struggle to prevent the weight piling on our horses. Grass is at its most calorific and obesity is at a yearly high.

Many owners successfully use grazing muzzles; an effective aid in controlling grass intake (make sure you follow the manufacturer’s instructions). If you decide to use a grazing muzzle, or strip grazing, the grass intake will be successfully reduced; however, it is important to make sure that the nutrient intake is not compromised.

This is the time of year when Hickstead Horse Feeds Leisure Balancer becomes the ideal feed for native types requiring a low calorie feed which is also a balanced diet fed in small quantities. Leisure Balancer contains Yeasacc, a live yeast culture which has been scientifically proven to stimulate the growth of fibre digesting bacteria in the gut, along with organic trace minerals in a highly digestible form. Biotin, zinc, methionine and calcium are added to help promote good hoof quality and due to the low starch and sugar content, Leisure Balancer is ideal for horses and ponies at risk of laminitis.

A sack of Leisure Balancer will last the average 15.2 hh horse a month and costs £17.99. 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. We really are very friendly. info@hicksteadhorsefeeds.co.uk www.hicksteadhorsefeeds.co.uk Facebook: Hickstead Horse Feeds.

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23/05/2014 16:11

WIN £500 worth of Parelli training visit www.parelli.com

Xxxxxxxxxx

Healthcare

Have a Healthy Summer with SPILLERS® Balancers H

orses and ponies are herbivores, having evolved to convert grass and other plant material very efficiently into the energy they need.

Yet, although grass can in most cases supply enough protein and calories for most of the year it is impossible to know whether it’s providing all the nutrients your horse needs to stay in good health and perform at his best. To make up for the shortfall but without adding unnecessary extra calories, a quality Balancer could be just what’s needed.

Horses rely on a balance of nutrients to maintain overall health and well-being. These include antioxidants, such as selenium and vitamin E, to maintain a strong immune system. Methionine, calcium, zinc and biotin are particularly important for strong hooves and a healthy coat and skin and amino acids, which are the building blocks of protein, help to support tissue repair and muscle tone alongside many other important roles.

Balancers are very concentrated feeds designed to supply these important daily vitamins and minerals, together with the quality protein that horses on forage-only diets or low levels of feed need. They are fed small quantities, usually by the cupful, so that there are no additional unwanted calories. Balancers often also contain functional ingredients such as live yeast to support digestive health or glucosamine to support healthy joints for extra peace of mind. Feeding a Balancer can also help lively horses keep their cool as they tend to be low in starch and because of the small quantity fed, won’t supply unwanted extra whizz!

Clare Barfoot, SPILLERS Nutritionist, said: “Feeding a balanced diet is the foundation of good health, however grass cannot be relied upon to provide this all year round. For those horses and ponies not requiring the recommended amount of compound feed Balancers are an excellent choice providing essential health supporting nutrition without unwanted calories.”

For advice on feeding Balancers call the SPILLERS® Care-Line on + 44 (0)1908 226626 or visit www.spillers-feeds.com. (continued from page 23)

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•

Prevent patient interference – cover with a suitable dressing.

If you suspect proud flesh (an excessive formation of granulation tissue) contact your veterinary surgeon immediately. Or if in any doubt about treating a wound or the horse’s state deteriorates, contact your vet immediately. It is also important to make sure your horse is vaccinated against tetanus as some wounds e.g. puncture wounds, are ideal for tetanus to flourish undetected.

Healing Wounds

•

• • •

Provide a moist environment. Many horse owners still believe that a wound should be allowed to dry out – “let the air get to it” but the opposite is now understood to be more beneficial providing faster healing, less scarring and reduced pain.

A suitable wound gel, such as Vetalintex®, will help to produce a warm, moist environment, ideal for the re-growth of healthy tissue.

Maintain optimum temperature, typically achieved by applying a dressing, insulating and protecting with Veterinary Gamgee® and bandaging.

If there is no infection, leave the wound undisturbed with infrequent dressing changes.

Healing Outcome

• • •

Resolution – tissue returns to original state.

Regeneration – replaces the tissue with similar tissue.

Organisation – tissue is replaced with scar tissue.

Robinson Animal Healthcare has a wide range of products for all your first aid requirements.

For more information contact Robinson Animal Healthcare on 01909 735000 or visit www.robinsonhealthcare. com www.equi-ads.com

23/05/2014 16:11

News

Crowds failed to show at new Kent show!

E

qui-Ads welcomed the news of a show being held at the Kent County showground at Detling, a thousand feet above the old county town of Maidstone.

Described in the promotional material as a ‘Masterclass demonstration and retail show’, it failed to attract enough support to make it the shopping experience the organisers would have liked.

Equi-Expo was described as “The show for everyone whose lives involves horses”, which is why Equi-Ads booked a trade stand. The majority of the day visitors were clearly familiar with the magazine and we enjoyed talking to

them. Advertising for the event was limited to subscribers of Horse & Hound, and two local publications.

But the few public that did visit the event appeared to enjoy it, and the traders who supported it might well give it another try if it is repeated next year, hopefully when other established events are not taking place. The atmosphere in the new smart exhibition hall, although very small, was friendly. Whether paying guests felt it was good value for the entrance fee of £10 I’m not sure!

A COAT FOR ALL SEASON! P

atch, an 11-year-old thoroughbred, owned by Cassie James from Shropshire, is literally a shining example of how correct feeding can help improve condition to your horse’s coat.

When Cassie bought Patch he had been out of work for around nine months and needed a helping hand to get some bloom in his coat and some added condition.

She added some Mollichaff ShowShine to his regular feed, and the results soon began to show.

Said Cassie: “ShowShine really did what it promised! Patch now looks great and his coat is wonderfully shiny. He has also put on a little weight.”

Throughout the winter, Cassie took Patch to do some Novice level dressage and some 1m show-jumping to help prepare him for his debut at BE100 level eventing this season.

MolliChaff ShowShine is a high-oil chaff for ultimate show condition. It is flavoured with cherry which provides a delicious taste and smell, ensuring it is highly palatable for even the fussiest of eaters. It is made from the highest quality oat straw that has been chopped and dust extracted, and it is naturally high in fibre.

To give extra bloom to the coat and that added condition required for show horses and ponies, or poor doers, it contains a unique coating which combines high levels of soya oil with low sugar molasses. Limestone is also added to provide additional calcium for healthy growth and stronger bones.

Mollichaff ShowShine will add extra fibre to hard feeds, and can be mixed with concentrates to prolong feeding time and aid digestion by stimulating the production of saliva. The extra fibre helps prevent bolting and reduces boredom while your horse is stabled. It can also be used in place of hard feed if fed alongside an all-purpose vitamin and mineral supplement or feed balancer.

For further information or feeding advice, please call the HorseHage Helpline on 01803 527257 or visit www.horsehage.co.uk www.equi-ads.com

Equi_Ads_June_EW_rev.indd 41

Riding for the Disabled Regional Challenge Day Success

R

iders representing ten RDA groups from across the South East converged on East Grinstead’s Felbridge Show Ground to participate in their annual Challenge Day. Nearly 60 young riders braved the torrential rain to display their riding skills in a range of activities including the Countryside Challenge which was a qualifying event for the RDA National Championships in Hartpury, Gloucestershire in July.

Enduring torrential rain, riders from East & West Sussex, Kent and Surrey went head-to-head in dressage, tack and turnout, handy pony and a number of gymkhana games. The event ended with a fancy dress competition featuring an ‘Animal’ theme.

The Countryside Challenge follows a simulated course where the riders put their skills to the test by tackling obstacles and tasks they might find in the country.

These include going through a gate, crossing a ‘road’, entering a farmyard, picking an apple from a tree and collecting eggs from a chicken! Although great fun, this also tests their steering, balance and confidence.

Qualifying this year in the Juniors were Nancy Davies of Hope in the Valley RDA (Plumpton, East Sussex), as well as Adam Lester and Emily Wetergaard-Belcher both from East Park RDA (Newchapel, Surrey). Ellen Chapman and Barbara Westbury, both from Chichester RDA (West Sussex), qualified in the Senior class.

Tom Longley, Director of Architecture of sponsors, Cowan Architects, awarded the prizes.

“It’s always such a treat and an honour to participate in these inspiring events” he commented.

“The weather was atrocious but there were still smiles all round”.

Cool Ponies!

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June 2014 | 41

23/05/2014 16:04

Feeding • Healthcare

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.

Laminitis research Have you heard of Psyllium? This ‘super bran’ has been successfully used to treat sand colic in horses. However, experts now also believe it could be a valuable dietary supplement for horses predisposed to developing laminitis due to metabolic causes.

In a feature published in the respected Journal of Equine Veterinary Science (JEVS), researchers at Montana State University in America conducted a study to see if adding psyllium to a horse’s diet had an effect on glucose and insulin metabolism, having observed the plant’s success rates in humans with insulin resistance. They concluded that, on average, psyllium-fed horses had lower peak and insulin levels after feeding, compared with horses that had not received psyllium. Assistant Professor Dr Shannon John J Moreaux concluded that psyllium may be especially beneficial to obese, insulin-resistant horses, or horses that are predisposed to developing laminitis because of metabolic syndrome.

Further research is planned.

(Reference: ‘Psyllium lowers blood glucose and insulin concentrations in horses. SJJ Moreaux, JL. Nichols, JGP. Bowman, PG. Hatfield. J Equine Vet Sci (2011) 31, 160-165.)

3.

4.

5.

Beet pulp is readily digestible and low in lignin, which is hard for horses to digest. Therefore it is great for older horses.

Beet pulp has an average non-structural carbohydrate content of about 12 per cent, and is therefore lowcalorie/starch.

It is always important to ensure you supplement diets including beet pulp appropriately, to provide a dietary balance - for example, with a feed balancer or supplement.

Some beet pulp soaks in as little as ten minutes

Travel agreement launches According to the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons (MRCVS), recent changes to European horse travel requirements should be applauded.

The Tripartite Agreement (TPA) allowed free movement of horses between the UK, Ireland and France without health checks; vet David Mountford said: “Equine veterinarians were very concerned about the risks posed by so many

Five Pulp Facts Did you know that sugar beet pulp is one of our most versatile horse feeds? Here are some key facts: 1. Beet pulp was once a sugar source in its original form, but when fed to horses, the sugar is extracted. The subsequent by-product, once dried and shredded, is an easily digestible, high-fibre, non-heating feed.

2. It is always soaked in water - depending upon how the pulp has been processed, this can be for as little 10 minutes, or up to 24 hours. Check the packaging, as if it has not been soaked, it could expand in a horse’s gut, risking colic.

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23/05/2014 23/05/2014 11:58 16:04

nt

14 11:58

Xxxxxxxxxx Healthcare horses travelling between countries without health checks. It was a disaster waiting to happen.”

But as of May 2014, only “high health” horses, including thoroughbred racehorses, breeding stock and FEI sport horses travelling to and from France, will have these ‘ease of movement’ rules applied. All other horses moved to and from France will be required to travel with a health certificate issued by a veterinary surgeon.

Roly Owers of World Horse Welfare said the change was badly needed.

“Quite simply the previous TPA was an open door for equine disease to enter the UK. This decision, if effectively enforced, will also help to prevent the spread of disease and protect thousands of vulnerable horses and ponies from totally unnecessary journeys each year,” Roly stated.

EPE in foals A little heard-of condition called Equine Proliferative Enteropathy, or EPE, is becoming more prevalent in foals, in some countries. The condition is caused by bacteria in the animal’s gut, and causes signs including fever, colic and weight loss. Although many foals are exposed to the bacterial organism, only a few typically develop the disease. However, in recent years, reported cases of EPE have been increasing in Canada, Europe, South Africa, Australia and even some parts of Europe. Successful treatment is often with antibiotics, and vaccines are being researched.

READY FOR THE WAR ON FLIES F

eaturing soft merino lambswool on the lining across the brow and nose, the LeMieux mask has comfort as it’s the top priority. Available without nose and ears, or as a full riding mask. £14.95 - £19.95 small, med, large and x-large. www.horsehealth.co.uk 02380814360

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At Alan Jones Trailer Training we offer the complete range of driving courses thus enabling you to gain the licence entitlement you require to tow a trailer. All training is carried out in a modern Toyota Rav 4 with a Ivor Williams box Trailer. Guaranteed completive prices tailored to your individual needs. Train in a relaxing manner making use of our reversing area and learn the skills you require to successfully pass the test first time.

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Inter I boost for Petplan Equine Area Festivals

O

ne of British Dressage’s best-supported competition series, the Petplan Equine Area Festivals, will now include classes at Intermediare I in 2014. The Rules and Fixtures Committee has decided to add Intermediare I (Inter I) now giving more riders access to a Championship.

All 19 of the 2014 Petplan Equine Area Festivals will be hosting Inter I competitions and successful riders will be in contention for a place at the Area Festival Championships held in April 2015 alongside the British Dressage Winter Championships. In order to qualify, horse and rider combinations must achieve 60% in two BD affiliated competitions and can qualify as many times as they wish. The qualification period started on 01 January 2014 and runs up to the closing date of the Area Festival the rider wishes to attend.

The Petplans present an attainable goal for many amateur British Dressage riders with over 19,500 riders taking part at an

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Equi_Ads_June_EW_rev.indd 43

Area Festival in the last decade.

The growth and popularity of the series has been tremendous with numbers increasing each year. In 2013, over 14,000 qualification notifications were sent to around 4,200 riders, which resulted in 2,800 starters across 18 Petplan Equine Area Festivals countrywide.

North Yorkshire rider Natalie Widdowson welcomes the news and is excited to have a new focus. She’s ridden her distinctive chestnut gelding Gorgeous George IV since 2009 and has taken him from a novice with no points to winning their Petplan Equine Area Festival at Holmside Hall last October at Prix St. Georges level. She explains; “I’m over the moon about this decision as I’m ready to compete at Inter I. Just getting there is an achievement but to know that I have something to aim for really helps. There are more and more amateurs at this level and it’s hard to match the professionals. Thanks BD and Petplan!”

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23/05/2014 16:04

Xxxxxxxxxx Healthcare • News

Sarcoid Treatment Worked!

S

ince Kadin’s episode of Bowel Disease, my horse has suffered from a series of lumps and bumps including Melanomas and, lumps some of which have been surgically removed. These issues had only come about post Bowel Disease. He also lacked energy for a five year old Arab.

Stumbling across adverts in the magazine regarding the Sarcoid Treatment I proceeded with a open view to ring Horsesarcoids.com. I spoke to Holly with my concerns and she advised me to put Kadin on six weeks treatment of “All natural sar-x”. My opinion was that £42 was not a lot to lose and if it helped that would be great. I honestly didn’t think that the lump would just “drop off ” especially in six weeks.

How wrong I was--four days and I saw immediate results. Within four weeks the large lump that caused the most problems between my horses back legs, had dropped off. The large unsightly lump below his eye, which had ended his showing career and was a nightmare with flies, proceeded to deflate and has almost healed.

I am confident that with a few more weeks of treatment the lumps will be resolved. I have also found that my horse has more stamina, having just successfully completed a 31km endurance ride, and is less gaseous.

Thank you, you may have saved my horses life in the long run!

Sian Wilkinson All natural sar-x is avaliable to buy at www.horsesarcoids.com starting at £42 for a six week supply. Helpline number is 0800 9709421

KEEPING UP APPEARANCES

I

n the battle against stable stains you need every little bit of help you can get and when it comes to your choice of bedding, the more absorbent the bedding, the less mess your horse has to lay in!

Verdo Horse Bedding is a clever heat-treated wood pellet product, created for equine use, which absorbs three times it’s own weight in liquid, which not only helps maintain a dry environment, but also reduces ammonia resulting in a much more pleasant night’s sleep.

When a small amount of water is added to the bag a regeneration process is activated and within approximately 15 minutes, you are ready to empty the open bags out into the stable to create a soft fluff y and dry bed ready for your horse.

Because the pellets are manufactured from 100% virgin soft wood and heat treated to eliminate pests and bacteria, you can rest assured that the horse is sleeping on only the best and its good to know that it has a low dust content, also making it the ideal choice for enclosed environments, such as your trailer or lorry or for immediate occupation at shows this season.

Other key factors include less waste on the muck heap and beds that are easier and quicker to muck out, leaving you more r: Fox Saddlers time for plaiting on those show mornings!

RRP: £5.65 - £5.95 per 15kg bag. the 13th June there gn below And nreturn by : will be an evening Table Top sale of equestrian www.verdohorsebedding.co.uk items at the Priddy village hall, from 6pm until 8pm.

Sellers can ent space has been allocated and booked per the above issue. THIS IS A PROOF FOR YOUR APPROVAL AND ALTERATION ONLY. arrive from 5-15pm and book a table £7-50 or £10 if youBY areTHE a last ND CHECK THE ADVERTISEMENT CAREFULLY AND MARKforANY CORRECTIONS SIDE OF THE PROOF AS WE CANNOT BE HELD minute Johny.

It's a charity event in aid of the Mendip Farmers Pony OR ANY ERRORS IN THE FINAL COPY. Club. Refreshments are available on site. Remember the best prices will come from the best presented (and cleanest) items. Organiser is Susie on that we will proceed with the copy below if we do not hear from you by the shown date.

07974020994. checked the advertisement in it’s entirety and confirm that it is correct.

Table Top Sale

O

Northgates, Wetherby, LS22 6NX

ON ALL ORDERS OVER £25

Visit our new website www.foxsaddlers.co.uk which is now Mobile/ Tablet compatible Or just call in store to our One Stop Shop For all your Equestrian needs

www.foxsaddlers.co.uk foxsaddlers@btconnect.com

01937 586070

Thirty Pony Club members selected

F

ollowing nine very successful Training and Assessment Days, 30 Pony Club Members from all over the country have been selected to attend the Rider Development Pathway (RDP) Camp during June 14-15th 2014 at Somerford Park EC; where they will receive top class coaching in their chosen discipline of Dressage, Show Jumping or Eventing.

The RDP, supported by the Sport England funded BEF Excel Talent Programme, is designed to aid the development of Pony Club Members who show the ability to progress in their sport and provides a stepping stone for young riders working towards the talent pathways of the Olympic disciplines, the British Equestrian Federation’s Sport England funded Excel Talent Programme and the UK Sport Funded World Class Programme.

A Classic Revised!

B

ased on the original Taurus Classic, the new Classic is now manufactured from soft, quality calf leather and features a hardwearing, non-slip rubber sole for durability and grip when riding. Honeycomb elasticated sides promotes comfort, ease and traditional styling.

Supremely comfortable, the Taurus Classic is ideal for busy equestrians on their feet all day with Cambrelle lining and a soft and cosy padded insole.

Sizes: Children’s 2 to 5, Adults 6 to 13 RRP: Children’s £38.45, Adults £45.95 The newly revised Classic will initially be available in Black only, with Brown to follow later in the year. Available to order direct from www.taurusfootwear. co.uk or Tel: 01328 851 432 to speak to a member of our friendly team.

44 | June 2014

Equi_Ads_June_EW_rev.indd 44

………………………………………Signed: ……………………………………………………. Date: ……………………………………

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23/05/2014 16:04

Healthcare Xxxxxxxxxx • Feeding

REMOUNT (Equitonic) AND ELASTIN for Horses

T

riple Crown International the Equine division of B.P.Nutrition (UK) Ltd undertook the study of 40 horses and ponies, all of which presented symptoms likely to be attributable to hepatic and joint compromise.

In some cases, veterinary confirmation of liver malfunction was available after biochemical analysis of blood; joint stiffness and arthritic changes were also either suspected or confirmed by X-ray.

Remount was given as a feed supplement, either in powder form or liquid form, over a period of 2-3 weeks. A high priming dose was given for the first three days, and this was then halved for the remainder of the course with a continued dosage of 1 oz of powder per day. Where joint stiffness and arthritic changes were the primary concern, at day 10 of treatment with Remount. This was then continued concurrently and subsequently for a period of 20-30 days. ELASTIN is also an assembly of untransformed plant materials, which has been shown to rebalance osteoblast and osteoclast populations and thus effect an improvement in joint mobility.

Results were subjectively assessed by owners/handlers of the animals, with any change in appearance, temperament, appetite, performance, suppleness and limb flexion being noted on a daily basis; the time course of any changes were recorded.

A taste trial, on a separate group of 40 horses and ponies, was carried out for both Remount 1 and ELASTIN. This was conducted in powder form. The trial consisted of a single dose of each product being added to the feed on separate occasions. Palatability was assessed on the immediate response to the feed, without any attempt, to disguise the taste or graduate its introduction.

The animals used in the studies represented a cross section of the equine population in terms of breeds, types, sizes and work requirements. They ranged from the smallest of native ponies to heavyweight hunters, and included dressage horses, eventers, show jumpers and racehorses in training.

Results

The most rapid improvements were in horses treated with Remount 1 for poor condition, lethargy, lack of bloom and lamanitic conditions, dramatic responses often occur within 48 hours. Animals previously dull, unenthusiastic and listless, showed improved outlook, increased appetite, and regained interest in life. Animals showing discomfort from lamanitic symptoms of, hot and sore feet walked more freely and comfortably within a few days. Poor and unthrifty animals started to gain weight and improved coat appearance within a week. Oedemas of the legs(“stocking up”) reduced within days of starting the treatment, and better joint mobility was also seen within 7-14 days of some animals. One horse presenting with head shaking of unknown aetiology which had been partially cured with steroid treatment ceased to head shake altogether within a few days. As a further observation, the laminits that peared to have been precipitated by steroid treatment, gave clear indications of the change in liver enzyme function that could be attributed to Remount 1 and which corresponded with symptomatic improvements in the animal. When the ELASTIN was also added to the feed of some animals, after pretreatment with Remount 1, results indicated great improvements in mobility, limb flexion and action in all paces.

Numerous single cases have since added support to the encouraging results of the survey, and a multiplicity of symptoms, previously resistant to treatment by conventional chemical means, have responded favourably to the use of Remount 1 and ELASTIN. Owners remarks, though hardly

M

illslade Arnica – a 15-yearold, 15hh Haflinger is neither fat nor a pony, but he and owner January Tewson have competed successfully in showing, dressage, jumping and cross-country over the years, winning in-hand and ridden Haflinger classes.

The couple have been selected to join the prestigious Great Britain Display Team at the Haflinger World Breeding and Sports Federation’s World Championships in Ebbs, Austria, next year. They will attend the event, which happens only once every five years, to perform a dressage display every evening to an audience of international visitors.

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Equi_Ads_June_EW_rev.indd 45

a scientifically based observation tended to endorse the efficacy of both preparations. Animals were said to “have gone from hobbling to sound”, to be “changed from a tired old horse to a bright-eyed, happy equine”, to be “totally transformed”. One horse, awaiting destruction by the vet due to a complex array of symptoms including desperately poor condition, photosensitivity, ringbone and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, is now glowing with health and back in the dressage arena. Another, a racehorse in a well known yard, was off for 18 months, untrainable, and is now back on the racecourse, has since been twice placed, and recently has won a race.

Results appear to be long lasting and to be sustained over a period of many weeks. Further investigations will continue into the time course of any required repeat treatment.

The anecdotal evidence has mounted up and has made an impressive array, but, nonetheless, the demonstrable proof of efficacy of any treatment given to a horse lies in the changed performance of the animal before and afterwards, as validated by winnings in the showring, dressage arena, eventing field and racecourse. All proven beneficial results have been demonstrated in each case. An owner remarking “It was wonderful to see such a quick recovery” may be very gratifying, but the horse in question being led into the winners enclosure at Catterick is even more so!

Discussions

• Animals which exhibited pronounced stiffness and suspected or confirmed arthritic changes were given ELASTIN a natural anti-arthritis preparation. Subjective assessment of the patients showed an 89% cure or improvement with ELASTIN. • ELASTIN is a natural preparation, and is produced under the most stringent conditions of growth, harvesting and “fingerprinting” of activity by advanced chromatographical techniques. Quality control is of the highest order and guarantees completely consistent quality and efficacy, and pharmacological and toxicological studies ensure a preparation that is safe as well as effective.

• REMOUNT trials in racing stables have also showed an improvement especially in horses that normally suffer with breathing difficulties resulting in a massive reduction in veterinary bills for antibiotics.

Specialists in herbal animal feed supplements & premixes

Ron Fields Nutrition is an Animal Health Company that provides Veterinarians Farmers and Pet owners with Special Scientifically prepared herbal products that have the benefit of quality control, laboratory research as well field trials.

REMOUNT See the Difference.....

A field study of 50 horses was carried out

by Christine Wait B. Ed., M.Sc. to assess the efficacy of Remount, a product to assist the performance of the liver. Animals previously dull, unenthusiastic and listless showed improved outlook, increased appetite, and regained interest in life. Poor and unthrifty animals started to gain weight and coat appearance within a week.

Free Sample Available Get in Touch With Us

Can be obtained from most stockists and many veterinary practices.

For more information please call 01432 851111 or

www.ronfieldsnutrition.co.uk June 2014 | 45

23/05/2014 16:04

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Xxxxxxxxxx News

GRANTS AWARDED TO SIX EQUESTRIAN CENTRES I

n the latest round of Sport England Inspired Facilities Funding six equestrian centres have been awarded grants to refurbish and improve their current facilities. A total of over £200,000 will be given to the successful applicants for their projects aimed at improving accessibility and increasing participation in equestrian sport.

To date the project has funded over 1,300 projects that have improved and refurbished sports clubs and transformed non-sporting venues into modern grassroots sports facilities.

Friends of Landlord Riding for the Disabled Association (RDA) Group [Wigan], Northern Racing College [Doncaster], Chiverton RDA Group [Truro], Tyne and Wear RDA Group [Tyne and Wear], Barrow Farm RDA Group [Chelmsford] and Ferring Country Centre [Worthing] are all to benefit from this latest round of funding.

The grants will support the development of new arenas, improvement of training facilities, provision of lighting as well as construction of

mounting and dismounting areas for disabled people. Tyne and Wear RDA Group are updating their stable facilities to deliver a wide range of horse care courses for centre users in a safer and more accessible environment. “We are so grateful to Sport England for their support of our project, as we would not have been able to raise this level of funding on our own,” said RDA Volunteer, Eileen Curley.

“We have always been dedicated to ensuring that all of our riders receive a high standard of professional tuition, tailored to their personal capabilities and to help them achieve their potential, however, many of our riders also want to understand how to care for the horses too.

The upgraded stable block will provide a wider range of horse care courses in a safer and more accessible environment, primarily for the benefit of our RDA clients, and with the aim of moving the Centre forward to a first class educational establishment ” continued Eileen.

“Sport England’s commitment to improving

facilities for disabled people who want to get involved in equestrian activities is hugely welcome,” said RDA Chief Executive, Ed Bracher.

“Demand for riding and carriage driving among people with disabilities far outstrips current capacity and each of the projects supported by Sport England will make a big difference for people in these communities across the country.”

Hoof, the British Equestrian Federation’s legacy programme, has been working in partnership with the RDA to increase the number of riding opportunities for disabled people through the development of the Accessibility Mark. The Accessibility Mark project aims to provide training, assistance and accreditation to riding centres, schools and clubs to enable more disabled people to participate in horse riding activities.

The Inspired Facilities funding is open all year round; the next decision meeting will take place in September 2014 for all applications received prior to 6 June 2014.

Rockies Magnacalm New Fly Rug

R

ockies’ Magnacalm provides a different way to add a calming supplement to your horse’s diet, without the need for a bucket feed.

The easy to feed lick contains bioavailable magnesium, salt and cerelose dextrose, with the latter to ensure intake. These ingredients are then put into high pressure presses, to create durable, resilient blocks that deliver excellent value for money. Horses that are deficient in magnesium can show nervous or excitable behaviour and, sometimes, adding a calming supplement to a potentially heating feed can be counter productive. That’s not the case with Magnacalm which has a RRP of £6.03 per lick.

For more information, see www.rockies.co.uk, email info@rockies. co.uk or call 01606 595025.

It’s a London Thing!

R

oeckl London Gloves available through Dressage Deluxe combine the style with the ultimate in performance.

Featuring a soft, lightweight breathable micro mesh on the back of the hand and an elastic non-slip palm with a dedicated ‘Slip Stop’ trim, these gloves offer exceptional comfortable and the perfect grip on the reins, whilst retaining that all important feel. Available in, sizes 6 1/2 to 8 1/2 RRP: £33.00 www.dressagedeluxe.co.uk

www.equi-ads.com

Equi_Ads_June_EW_rev.indd 47

T

he Kensington European Cut Textilene Protective Sheet is a revolutionary rug available exclusively through UK on-line retailer Shadow Horse.

The rug is styled in a clever, 1000 x 2000 Denier Textilene® fabric, which is specially formulated to keep flies at bay, as well as withstanding sun bleaching, mildew, soiling and wear and tear, even in the most extreme weather conditions, whilst keeping your horse cool.

Kensington European Cut Textilene Protective Sheet - RRP: £116.00 Sizes: 5’9”, 6’0”, 6’3”, 6’6”, 6’9”, 7’0”, 7’3” Colours: Deluxe Black Plaid Kensington Friesian Cut Textilene Protective Sheet (larger cut) - RRP: £116 Sizes: 6’3”, 6’6”, 6’9”, 7’0”, 7’3” Colours: Deluxe Grey Plaid Neck cover also available RRP: £38.00 & matching fly masks, fly boots and tail covers.

Sizes: S, M, L, XL www.shadowhorse.co.uk 01628 857 466

T

he Hiho Exclusive Leather Bracelet is available in raspberry, turquoise, chocolate and tan, and has a RRP of £40.

Check with your local stockist.

June 2014 | 47

23/05/2014 16:04

News • Results Xxxxxxxxxx

Total Hoof Care: SA‘APPRENTICE TNEMOFETHE LPYEAR’ PUAWARD S MU I M E R P Grow and Protect

pprentice of the Year will take place during the Masterclass on 11 July, carried out by Matthew Sampson a Senior British Team member for Nations Cups, former member of the Junior and Young Rider teams at the European Championships, and former Pony and Junior European Gold medallist. At only 25, Matthew has been a prolific winner at some of the world’s most prestigious competitions including 3* Arezzo, the 4* Sunshine Tour Grand Prix, the Young Riders Championship he #1 hoof supplement now has a at Olympia, the Newcomers and Young Riders Final at HOYS, the 3* Beervelde Grand Prix in complement: Farrier’s Finish® topical hoof Belgium, 4* Donetsk in the Ukraine, and 3* Lummen liquid.

A number of apprentices, who have been specially selected by their employers and assessors, will be Together, Farrier’s Formula® and Farrier’s put through their paces by Matthew, with the winner being awarded with the prestigious title of ‘SCT Finish® provide healthy hoof growth + Apprentice of the Year 2014’. The victor will receive a fabulous Horseware jacket, very generously antimicrobial protection. donated by Thomas Irving Equestrian Superstore, Chesterfield; and Top Spec will be donating bags of Farrier’s Finish® topical hoof liquid combats their leading brand Feed Balancer. the “hoof eating” bacterial and fungal invasions 9.32£our support )tnemelppus tniowhich j decncause avda(white AHline Xdisease, ELF thrush, REIM ERP Anna Franklin said “Thomas Irving Equestrian Superstore are pleased to5 continue and in the development of professional equine care through Stubbing Court Training Ltd. We are poor hoof quality.

59Year’ .62for£ 2014, )and wawill lc slived hTh tiw ( SUiodine LP X ELF REIMERP delighted to help reward the Stubbing Court Training Ltd ‘Apprentice of the e tamed antimicrobial enjoy following their future success. We are delighted to hear Matthew Sampson will be judging this in Farrier’s Finish® 59.91£ ylno )reiscdelivered nalab d eethe f( E TELPMOC 563 prestigious competition”. into hoof For more information on SCT’s apprenticeships, visit www.stubbingcourttraining.com capsule by a highly 59.51£ ylnpenetrating o ertiL 1base ETofUteaTITSBUS ETUB tree oil. The unique blend 59.82£ ylppuofsingredients yad 54 g k1 ROIRRAW DUM including natural waxes and resins 05.5£ g0provide 02 Mhoof AEprotection RC ROIRRAW DUM for horses standing in 99.22£ gk2 )ppus fomuddy oh( Epaddocks TIRUorOrainVAF SREIRRAF sodden fields while still 59.62£ gk2 )sallowing etyloroxygen tcele(toSpass ETYL REIMERP he new Tottie spring/summer collection. into the hoof capsule.

The new Howden rugby top from Tottie. It has a relaxed 59.21£ )!paehc( g0Farrier’s 05 MS M DE LLITSID ERUP Formula® and feminine fit with long sleeves keeping you comfortable when the Farrier’s Finish®: The weather isn’t so warm. It features a contrasting buttoned placket, 59.22£ sUltimate ertil 5 Hoof LIOCare DEESNIL NIGRIV ribbed cuffs and woven collar with contrasting underside.

Combination The Howden is available in sizes XS, S, M, L and XL, it retails www.lifedatalabs.co.uk at around £46.99.

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NEWS RESULTS EVENTS

Send your news articles over to Equi-Ads and see them published.

Please contact bob@equiads.net Tel: 020 8302 6069 Want to advertise and promote your business?

Give us as call and see your company advertised in the magazine.

*

April at The Grange. Well done to all competitors who took part and many thanks to judge Mrs. June Timperley from Lancashire who enjoyed her day.

4th. Samantha Wilson Class 1. Concours d'Elegance 5th. Celine Moyes 1st. Barbara Stephenson. Lemor Exige Class 7. Best Riding Club Horse/ 2nd. Sophie Lane. Conspiracy Pony Theory.

1st. Samantha Wilson.

3rd. Marjorie Grant. Trailtrow 2nd. Marjorie Grant Eriskay.

Y Pebbly LNOPenni )ylp4th. pus Carol syad 0Rogerson.

4( AMLAC !!99.92£ Class 8. Novice Equitation Farthing.

Jumping 5th. Celine Moyes. Morris. tx6th. en e Samantha ht ot stcudWilson. orp gnim lac eniuqe s1st eka Samantha t dna tcudWilson orp tsetal ruo si amlaC Nirvana 2nd. slTywysog. acituecartuen fo noitalumrof euqinu a sesMarjorie u amlaCGrant srewsnA eniuqE .level .tcudorp gnimlac evitceffe ylgnizama na edivorp ot sbreh gnimlac laiceps dna Class 9. Historical Costume Class 2. Classical Ladies elbab1st ros Sophie ba fo Lane. smrof tseb yrev eht de1st. su e vah Rogerson ew amlaC gnitalumrof nI Carol taht 2nd. dnuoBarbara f eW .CStephenson.

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na eClass dam s4.ah Open ti...tnEquitation emelppus siht gnitaerc rof uoy knaht ot ekil tsuj dluoW“ Trophy 1st. Sophie Lane "nwTrooper o ot legna na esrohecar-xe elbaticxe 1st. Sophie Lane 2nd. Barbara Stephenson 2nd. Samantha Wilson shtiffirG eyaF

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Please contact stephanie@equiads.net Tel: 01159 461146

48 | June 2014

Equi_Ads_June_EW_rev.indd 48

3rd. Marjorie Grant 4th. Celine Moyes 5th. Samantha Wilson

Class 6. Best Horse/ Pony 1st. Sophie Lane 2nd Marjorie Grant 3rd. Barbara Stephenson

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A differ top A top quality quality joint joint in the levels of the activenot ingredients contained them.

A topwhich quality supplement supplement should should contain contain not only only a good a good level level of in of Glucosamine Glucosamine which is joint is a a supplement should contain not only a levels good level of Glucosamine which is a relatively relatively cheap cheap ingredient ingredient butbut also also high high levels of of Chondroitin, Chondroitin, HAHA and and MSM. MSM. relatively cheap ingredient but also high levels ofjoint Chondroitin, HA and MSM. Premier Premier Flex Flex is possibly is possibly thethe highest highest spec spec equine equine joint supplement supplement today! today!

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In Informulating formulatingCalma Calmawewehave haveused usedthethevery verybest bestforms forms of ofabsorbable absorbable In formulating Calma we have used the very best forms of absorbable magnesium magnesium in in Magnesium Magnesium Aspartate Aspartate and and Magnesium Magnesium AAC. AAC. WeWe found found that that magnesium in two Magnesium Aspartate and Magnesium AAC. We found that combining combining these these two high high quality quality forms forms of of magnesium magnesium with with secret secret calming calming combining these two high quality forms of magnesium with secret calming herbs herbs gave gave usus thethe best best possible possible calming calming formulation. formulation. herbs gave us the best possible calming formulation.

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Equi_Ads_June_EW_rev.indd 49 SOU_EQUINE_ANSWERS_FP_BLEED.indd 1

23/05/2014 16:29 16:04 11/03/2014

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