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NOVEMBER 2014 ium:

Equine Prem

Win

hip 2 x membersion s is and adm tickets to 5 01 d Ba minton 200 3 £ worth

HOOF PROBLEMS:

•Feeding horses with problem feet •Foot Abscesses

Five Pairs of GRUBS Rideline Boots to Give away!

•Back Pain •Insurance Am I Covered?

ith Five minutes w Sophie Wells

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Event Reports

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24/10/2014 24/10/2014 11:55 09:29

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Front cover: Charlotte Walker riding Liath Capall (Stan) at HOYS 2014 - Photo courtesy of ES Photography

Main Features

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News

annah Biggs and her superman stallion were on form in Saumur. Riding to their new music composed by Tom Hunt, Hannah and Weltzin posted their first ever international victory when they won the CDI3* Grand Prix Freestyle, scoring 73.575 per cent for their “Superman” Freestyle, the second highest Freestyle result in almost 3 1/2 years on the Big Tour.

Feeding animals with problem feet ............................9 Horse Behaviour ...................18 Good Feed - Good Feet .......21 Back pain ................................24 Five Minutes with Sophie Wells ...........................26 Foot Abscesses .......................28 Equine Vacancies ..................29 Insurance question ...............32 Dealing with hoof abscess ...33 Classicial Riding ....................34 Saddle news ...........................36 Win a pair of Grubs boots....43 Common Lower Limb Swelling ...................................44 Retail Focus - R & S Ward...45 Christmas Gifts .....................46

X R A S L A R U T A N L L A X-RAS LARUTAN LLA

Harvey wins prestigious award T N E M E L P P U S C I N A G R O 1 # T N E M E L P P U S C I N A G R O 1 TNEMHELPPUS CINAGRO 1# #

arvey, a chestnut Welsh Sec D cob, is the winner of the RDA’s Horse or Pony of the year National Award. Harvey, who is 22, is based at Lowlands Farm RDA with Ro Pudden. Dawn McBride who has MS nominated him for this award. Dawn told Equi-Ads, “Harvey is completely honest, genuine and ”stluseupon r gn zam a good ylpm hgriders, uobknowing reve evah I gniht tseb ehT“ trustworthy. He can ”bestrelied toiitake very careisofthis Don’t miss out - keep luser gn z a m a y l p m i s t h g u o b reve evah I gniht tseb ehT“ they are unbalanced,”oft sten lubefore ser gthey nizdo.” ama ylpmid agW av iA s rth uoratb re ve evah I gniht tseb ehT“ up-to-date uwith all the xE“ The team from Lowlands c e l l e n t p r collected the award from Clare Balding the o d c d r t a W raviA V. yrenews E“i x c e l l e n t p r latest and events o d m u p Gala ceremony. It was a very competitive categorydwith many raW raworthy viA yrsetlVus.tecr h “i ELondon toirwpdte ler nssessle dus rcpxmcontenders. e rsetlVus.tecruh byy””following onde tiw C i o rrpm Snuggy Hoods is proud to sponsor the Horse or Pony of the Year National wHdeesnsiier rr tia rih Facebook ”sntloutsgen H en rroC RDA. esahfor cru p taeper a si sihT .tcudorp citsatnaF“ notgnirra oCAward. The Gala night raised £20,000 gnirraH enirr sa hycM ru.p nothttp:www.facebook. For more information visitewww.snuggyhoods.com orremail seishuTo.ttceuudnorp citsatnaF“ se r o h tcttua de op re p saihstisales@ itnoc llahs sa ru.p a e p e snuggyhoods.com or call 01225 com/pages/Equi-Adsese r783399. o hhycM tcudorpr saihsti seishuTo.ttceuudnorp citsatnaI Fd“na

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November 2014 | 1

24/10/2014 11:55

News Xxxxxxxxxx • Feeding

www.conchiesaddlery.co.uk Telephone Dundee 01382 532536

JACQUI EDWARDS AN ALLTECH EQUINE HERO J

acqui Edwards of Stamford, Lincolnshire is the latest winner of Alltech’s global search for equine heroes. Voted for by fans from all over the world, of the Equine Hero facebook page, the UK is proving itself to be a country of true horse lovers. Michele Gaskin nominated Jacqui Edwards as her Equine Hero describing her as an inspirational and dedicated mother to her daughter Alice. Alice is passionate about horses and it has always been her dream to be able to ride a horse. Unfortunately this was difficult for Alice as she was born with only one functioning hand. Nonetheless Jacqui was

determined to get her daughter riding the way she wanted to, and designed a type of rein which Alice would be able to use. This special set of reins has helped Alice to achieve her dream of riding a pony and allowed her to go on to win lots of local pony events!

After seeing the success of her rein design, Jacqui decided that she wanted to help more people and set up a company called Alice Reins. Through this company she sells her special reins for those with lesser grip, such as people suffering from arthritis, those who have had a stroke or even people who have carpal tunnel or other similar ailments. Jacqui told Equi-Ads: “I was absolutely thrilled to be announced the winner of Alltech’s latest Equine Hero Award. I had no idea that I had been nominated and was only told when I had been selected into the final three, I was overwhelmed and speechless!” “My daughter Alice still uses her

Alice Reins eight years on and could not ride the way she does without them. Since setting up the business Alice Reins Ltd 5 months ago, I have been amazed at the comments and testimonials received. I am so passionate about what I do and to see smiles on our riders’ faces is just priceless. I would like to give my heartfelt thanks to everyone that voted for me.” If you know someone that goes above and beyond to help and inspire others, nominate your equine hero at www.EquineHero.com.

Are you feeding your horse a balanced diet? By Sally Tobinne WHAT IS FORAGE ANALYSIS – AND HOW IT CAN HELP?

We all know feeding horses can be a complete nightmare! How many times have you spoken with your horsey friend only for the conversation to end up with the inevitable “I’ve just changed Dobbin onto such and such feed, but he still doesn’t seem right?” “Flash doesn’t like his feed and won’t eat it” “Trigger is losing weight again” - and so it goes on………..! Horse-owners also tend to buy hay or haylage without knowing the nutritional or mineral content. It may look the “right” colour and smell lovely - but does it provide Dobbin, Flash or Trigger with the correct nutrition? The bulk of the horses’ diet is forage, yet owners end up feeding a complete unknown because it doesn’t come with a label on the side saying what is in it! Owners are dazzled by an array of hard feed – products promising to be balanced for this, that and the djk03@hotmail.co.uk other, offering low /medium/high energy, non-heating, good-doers,

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etc. etc.. Bagged feed may be balanced in its own right, but does not take into account the nutritional or mineral profile of the forage in the horses diet, which when fed together may then cause an imbalance. How can owners know if their forage when combined with a bucket of feed delivers a truly balanced diet in all respects? Then there is the complication of supplements – at the tack shop rows and rows of vitamins and minerals in a variety of powders, liquids, licks – the list goes on. Some owners think that to add more must be better, or adopt a “belt and braces” approach so adding a vitamin/mineral supplement just in case Dobbin is lacking in anything! Yes we all want the very best for our horses and quite rightly so! But where do you start? So let’s get back to basics. As horse owners we all know that the basis of any good well planned equine diet is forage - grass, and/or hay or haylage. (continued on page 6)

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EQA-XNO 24/10/2014 11:55 08/10/2014 10:43

Xxxxxxxxxx Results

Hall Place Annual Show 2014 - Rain Didn’t Stop Play! By Emma Sumbler S

incere congratulations must go to all who braved the wettest Bank Holiday on record to compete at this years memorable show in Tilehurst, Reading. All 34 classes were well attended and the challenge cups hotly contested. The ever popular jumping classes were held in the rubber track arena and the technical courses, designed by Show Manager Kate Turner, tried the skills of junior and senior competitors. Ten year old Anna Freij from Whitchurch won the first class on the nippy little pony ‘Spunky Spud’. Anna keeps Spud at Hardwick Stud who support the show every year. Sisters Georgie and Katie Turner-Stephenson dominated four classes throughout the day. Big

sister Leanne who runs the stud was also in the rosettes in two classes. Bradley Harris, age 13 from Oakley Nr Basingstoke, claimed the trophy in the novice class against stiff opposition. The showing classes were also well attended with plenty forward for the judges in all three rings. Hats off to all competitors to produce such well turned out horses in such wet weather. The Brood Mare class won by Julie Bond and her lovely Morgan cross mare ‘Justin the Millenium’ made the fruitful trip from High Wycombe. The Ridden Championship was given to Megan Gower riding Contentment, a five year old Holstein cross. This lovely horse

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showing maturity beyond his years was foot perfect in such inclement weather. This combination also won the In Hand Championship after a lovely performance in the Sports Horse class. He will definitely Brood Mare – Julie Bond & be one to watch for future in any Justin The Millenium discipline. Demi Howard-Cartwrights success deserves a special mention. Demi won three classes on her delightful pony Sapphire Arid (Saffy) a 11.2hh Welsh Section A and went on to take Reserve Ridden Champion, looking tiny in the line up against all the other much bigger horses. Demi is only six years of age and her ambition is to be a top dressage rider competing for Britain! Size and age of this lovely partnership doesn’t inhibit their aspirations at all. Reserve Hunter Champion & WHP – The Hunter Championship Mayan Northway Young & Maisie Mouse was hotly (and damply) contested the pretty working hunter ring and between the placings in all three was well supported by all intrepid hunter classes. The Champion Champions and Reserve Champions coming from the Show Hunter from earlier in the day. class - Catherine Jeffrey and ‘Elsie After much deliberation between Bush’, a charismatic mare who also the three judges the honours went performed well in the workers. to Catherine Jeffrey and Elsie Bush Reserve Hunter Champion went to showing off to perfection what lovely a beautiful Exmoor cross working paces she has. Hall Place would like hunter pony Maisie Mouse, ridden to thank all who supported the show by Mayan Northway-Young from Beenham. Her mother Anna Young this year and will look forward to a was also victorious in the Youngstock seasonably dry day in 2015. More showing will be held at the Autumn class with Moonstruck Lunabug. Novice Show in October, schedules The McGonnell & Gillatt www.hall-place.com. Supreme Championship was held in Images by Royle Photography Equestrian Events www.rpeevents.co.uk. For high resolution images for print contact Kevin at info@rpeevents.co.uk

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Xxxxxxxxxx Results

Renegade Hoof boots for barefoot horses

Minimus Jumping – Anna Freij & Spunky Spud

Novice Jumping – Bradley Harris & Bambi

he Saddlery Shop is one of the industry’s leading authorities on booting barefoot horses, holding the largest stock of hoof boots in the UK. Brand new to the extensive range is Renegade Hoof Boots. Extremely popular in the USA, these striking boots are available in a wide selection of sizes with an extensive fitting guide provided on the website http://www.thesaddleryshop.co.uk . Renegades took over three years to develop, and underwent rigorous testing. Featuring unique ‘pivoting heel captivator’ technology, if properly sized, fitted, adjusted and installed, the Renegade Hoof Boot will not rub, not even for riding distances of 100 miles. Many UK horse owners recognise the health benefits of maintaining a horse with bare feet. However, some horses take longer than others to progress from wearing shoes to going ‘bare’, and benefit from wearing hoofboots during the transitional process. Some bare horses will always need further protection when working on certain surfaces, or for certain durations, in order to remain comfortable - this is where hoofboots come in! Renegades are supplied in pairs of the same size, one left, one right hoof boot in Black only from The Saddlery Shop. Priced at £169.99. Visit the website: http://www.thesaddleryshop.co.uk

DO YOU WANT A BETTER RELATIONSHIP WITH YOUR HORSE? My focus is to help you connect with your horse on a deeper level, whether under saddle or on the ground. Using methods based on Monty Roberts techniques, I can help with: • Confidence (horse and/or rider) • Loading Issues • Catching • Farrier Issues • Spookbusting • Riding Lessons • Longlining • Ground Handling

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November 2014 | 5

24/10/2014 11:55

News • Feeding

Mark Todd Bridging the Gap Scholarship Winner T

he winner of the 2014/15 Mark Todd Bridging the Gap (MTBTG) Scholarship is 24 year old Zoe Wilkinson. Oxfordshire-based Zoe was chosen by the judging panel made up of Sir Mark Todd, British Eventing Accredited Coaches Lizzel Winter and Gill Watson, and representatives from MTBTG sponsors, Keyflow Feeds and the Mark Todd Collection. A former head girl and yard rider for Australian international Event rider Paul Tapner, Zoe began eventing when just 14 years old with an ex-racehorse that she retrained herself. The co-founder of E.Z. Equestrian in 2011, Zoe has gone on to have great success producing young horses, winning the Burghley Young Event Horse Finals in 2012 and 2013 with Parkfield Quintessential. Her top horse, GHS Calvaruise, was sadly injured from mid 2012 to mid 2013 but this year has become very competitive at Intermediate level, and has just completed his first Advanced. Zoe now intends to establish him at Advanced level, and if all goes to plan, next year aim for Bramham Under 25’s or the Blenheim Palace CCI3*. Zoe commented on her win: “I am so surprised as I’d been watching everyone ride and the standard was really high. To be

mentored by Mark Todd is an amazing opportunity; every part of the scholarship will be important to me. Getting feed and advice from Keyflow and products from the Mark Todd Collection will all prove invaluable.” Seven finalists went forward for the final selection day and all had an anxious wait while the judges deliberated over their decision. Sir Mark said afterwards: “The standard today was extremely high which made the selection process exceptionally difficult but after much deliberation Zoe was a unanimous choice. There is no doubt in my mind that the Bridging the Gap Training Series is really paying off for those that use it.” Zoe will receive a significant support package for the 2015 competition season including three individual training sessions and mentoring from Sir Mark. She also wins £1500 worth of Keyflow Feed plus nutritional advice, as well as clothing, tack and horse wear from the Mark Todd Collection, also to the value of £1500. Second and third placed riders Kat Raybould and Tyler Cassells received BE training vouchers whilst all finalists were presented with a rug, jacket and saddlepad from the Mark Todd Collection and will receive feed and nutritional help from Keyflow.

Photos courtesy of Fiona Scott-Maxwell

(continued from page 2)

EQUIOIL ® Keeping Horses Happy

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Forage makes up the majority of the horses daily intake of feed, crucial for the intake of varying nutrients, satisfying the horses need to chew, and essential for a healthy digestive system. Horses need the correct calories (MJ/kg DE - Mega joules of Digestible Energy per kilogram of feed) and protein for their type, work, breed, age and also a balance of vitamins and minerals. However, problems arise when we keep horses in small areas which limits their ability to roam and carefully select their pasture, resulting in grazing areas which may have mineral imbalances (deficiencies or excesses!). Hay or haylage may be produced from fields that have been over-fertilised or even neglected, and fed to horses as a completely unknown quantity (the nutritional and mineral content). So what is Forage Analysis and how is it useful? Forage Analysis is the scientific analysis of the nutritional and mineral profile of forage - hay, haylage and grass, carried out in an accredited laboratory under strict guidelines and test conditions. The laboratory produces a table of results identifying the values of the sample submitted. Usually the tests will identify the Digestible Energy, protein, sugars, and a full range of macro-minerals, micro-minerals and antagonists (Phosphorus, Magnesium, Calcium, Sodium, Potassium, Chloride, Manganese, Copper, Zinc, Selenium, Cobalt, Iodine, Iron, Aluminium, Molybdenum, Sulphur, and Lead). For many years now livestock farmers have been using this type of analysis to help create diets for their cattle – not surprisingly farmers are concerned with ensuring their cattle are receiving the optimum nutrition for good health, breeding, meat and milk production. This useful analysis is now becoming more and more common in the horse world, and used as the very first starting point in creating a balanced diet. Forage Analysis is an extremely useful tool for creating diets for all types of horses – youngsters, broodmares, stallions, hacks, eventers, good-doers and those with health issues and other problems. Once the horse owner has their Forage Analysis results they can clearly see if their hay/haylage is providing their horse with good quality digestible energy, protein, and minerals, and also (particularly important for those managing laminitic horses or ponies) the levels of sugars present. From this, a balanced diet can then be developed. Help to understand the tables can be provided by Nutritional Consultants who specialise in this area and through whom the owner has purchased (continued on page 43) www.equi-ads.com

24/10/2014 11:55

Xxxxxxxxxx Feeding

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. Referrals to leading veterinary advisor

Riders often link saddle-fitting problems and equine back pain to loss of performance. However, recent studies showed that 46% of horses within the study group were lame or had gait abnormalities, and that 43% of saddles were ill-fitting. Surely a much bigger proportion of the riding population than would be anticipated? Addressing these large numbers, the Saddle Research Trust (SRT) has launched a new referral scheme to help riders tackle serious, saddle-related problems. The new scheme aims to help owners resolve their saddle-related problems, with leading veterinary expertise. Potential equine cases can be submitted to the SRT for an initial assessment, and if deemed suitable, will be passed with the permission of the animal’s vet to the SRT’s veterinary advisor Sue Dyson at the Animal Health Trust, for a full assessment. The assessment costs £335 plus VAT. November’s Saddle Research Trust International Conference, to be held in Cambridge, will showcase the referral scheme. Find out more at www.saddleresearchtrust.com

Forty three per cent of saddles are estimated to be ill-fitting. Is yours? Time to feed fat?

Many owners like to add fat to their horse’s diets for calorific purposes as winter approaches. It can be fed in relatively small amounts to provide calories without feeding

cortisol and heart rates, a big grain ration that found that equine stress could lead to digestive levels were not affected challenges like colic by the sex of the rider. or laminitis. Corn or vegetable oil, rice bran or flax seed products are Horses help reduce popular choices, and human stress any feed that contains So, the stress responses more than about 3.5% of male and female fat is considered to be riders are essentially ‘fat-supplemented’. the same, and horses However, it is wise to supposedly don’t prefer remember that oils have being ridden by men or If you’re giving feed less hard feed while no incidental nutrient women - however, new supplementing oil, ensure you have not imbalanced the horse’s ration. value, just fat calories research from America’s (unless you are feeding Washington State a specific balancer or supplement that is preUniversity has shown that horses definitely balanced). Hence, if you need to feed less hard help reduce stress in humans. feed if you are giving oil, so that your horse does According to the Science Daily website, the not get too fat, ensure you have not imbalanced American Psychological Association’s team is his ration. For advice, look at the website of your the first evidence-based research within the feed manufacturer, call their feed helpline, or field of human-equine interaction to measure a seek advice from an independent nutritionist. change in the humane stress hormone, cortisol. An after-school programme serving 130 typically developing children over a twoHorses don’t favour males or females year period found that children who had A study claims that horses do not favour a particular sex of rider. Austrian scientists analysed participated in the 12-week programme had significantly lower stress hormone levels how horses are affected by the sex of their riders, throughout the day and in the afternoon than using parameters of stress. Natascha Ille of the children that had not, demonstrating the Graf Lehndorff Institute Vienna, author of therapeutic effects of being with horses. the recent article Look out for more advice and info at in the Journal www.equi-ads.com of Comparative Exercise Physiology, believes that the stress responses of male and female riders are essentially the same. As Ille notes, “It is often assumed that women are more sensitive towards their horses than men.” However, the study of eight horses and sixteen riders (eight men and A study claims that equine A study has demonstrated the therapeutic effects eight women), which stress levels are not affected by the sex of the rider’. of being with horses. monitored saliva

Feeding for Optimum Digestive Function HAY CARRY

orses and ponies have evolved to eat a diet that mainly consists of fibre; this keeps the gut working correctly and results in optimum digestive function and overall well being. If the horse’s digestive system is compromised in anyway i.e. a diet that doesn’t contain enough fibre, it will have significant effects on performance, appearance and even temperament. Feeding a diet that is high in fibre should be the main consideration when feeding any equine. The addition of a superior quality feed balancer such as one in the Blue Chip range to your horse or pony’s fibre diet is the easiest way to ensure that your horse or pony’s digestive health is taken care of on a daily basis and they are receiving the correct levels of essential vitamins, minerals and nutrients. All of the Blue Chip balancers are whole-cereal and molasses free, making them very low in sugar and starch. They also all incorporate a probiotic yeast to ensure optimum digestive health and increased fibre digestibility. To find out how feeding a Blue Chip feed balancer alongside a fibre diet can help improve your horse’s digestive function please visit www.bluechipfeed.com or call 0114 266 6200. www.equi-ads.com

Equi_Ads_Nov_EW_rev.indd 7

o transport hay, haylage and straw around the yard without leaving a trail behind you, the Hay Carry is a must-have item. The Hay Carry is available in blue and has a RRP of £10.95. For more information, see www.moorlandrider. co.uk, email info@ moorlandrider.co.uk or call 01782 397796

November 2014 | 7

24/10/2014 11:55

Results • Feeding Xxxxxxxxxx

Bert Wins KBIS National Para-Dressage Championship

Common winter ailments and what you can do about them

orseHage-sponsored para-dressage rider, Bert (Roberta) Sheffield, was a popular winner at the recent LeMieux British Dressage National Championships at Stoneleigh. She was riding Double Agent (Darcy) owned by Frances Sheffield and scored an amazing 70.81% to take the crown. Darcy was bought by Bert as a two-year-old after first spotting her as a foal in a picture, and unseen without a rug. But the gamble paid off and Darcy qualified for the Alltech World Equestrian Games in 2010 as a six-year-old at only her third show at Hartpury CPEDI with a Grade 1b rider, Bert told Equi-Ads: “Darcy was fantastic – she wasn’t fazed at all and handled the atmosphere very calmly. I was so pleased with the ﬂuency of the test – it just felt right.” Bert, who has dual nationality and rides for Canada in international competitions, is currently ranked 2nd in the Para-equestrian Canada short list ranking and will finish this season 20th in the World FEI Para rankings. She is based in the

UK in Lincolnshire and is on the Lincolnshire Elite Athlete Programme for 2014 as well as being Patron of Sport at Willoughby School, Bourne. Said Frances Sheffield, Bert’s mother and owner of Darcy: “I am so proud of the pair of them! Who would have thought that the gangly two-year-old Bert bought in 2009, that we turned out into the field with the Welsh Cobs would turn into such a superstar? Darcy is the perfect horse and Bert was so clever to see that from the photograph she first saw of Darcy as a foal on the Morgan Equine website, that this was the horse for her! Darcy is only seven years old, and, after a break for both Bert and Darcy, we are looking forward to 2015 and all that brings, and then on to 2016 and Rio! We had a super week at the British Dressage National Championships – thank you to everyone.” For further information on Bert’s sponsor, HorseHage, or for advice on feeding your horse or pony, please call 01803 527257 or visit www.horsehage.co.uk

HEALTHY HOOVES ALL YEAR ROUND K

eeping your horse’s hooves healthy is vital at any time of the year, especially with the unpredictability of British weather, which can see prolonged periods of wet weather followed by a dry spell that can cause havoc with hooves. The best way of ensuring healthy hooves is by feeding a formulation which will guarantee your horse is getting the vital vitamins, minerals and nutrients needed to ensure strong, healthy hoof growth. Biotin, Zinc, Methionine and Copper all play significant roles in ensuring hooves grow well and all the Blue Chip feed balancers contain these elements in the unique hoof supplement, Soundhoof ™ . The combination of these ingredients help to maintain the laminae and enhance the formation of Keratin, an essential building block of the hoof wall. To ensure strong, healthy hooves, Blue Chip incorporates the recommended daily amount of Biotin in a bioavailable form. Feeding a Blue Chip feed balancer with SoundHoof will ensure your horse or pony not only looks fantastic, but will have healthy hooves all year round.

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inter can bring about many ailments, with lower temperatures and a change in routine. Keeping your horse or pony fit and healthy all year round is very important, especially so in winter. Some of the most common winter ailment can be prevented with the correct supplements and preparations. Mud Fever

Mud fever is a bacterial infection of the skin and is caused by prolonged periods of exposing the legs to muddy and wet conditions. The best way to treat mud fever is by using a specifically designed product such a Horse and Pony Direct (HPD) Mud Fever/Cut Cream, which is scientifically proven to kill the bacteria responsible for mud fever. HPD’s Mud Fever/Cut Cream acts as a barrier, supports wound healing and aids a speedy recovery. Horses and ponies should have somewhere dry and mud free to stand every day to allow the legs to dry out. Daily checking of legs for signs of mud fever is very important and should be included in your daily winter routine. Soft feet

Wet weather can often lead to horses and ponies standing for long periods in wet and muddy fields causing hooves and feet to become soft and weakened. One of the best ways to combat this is by feeding a hoof supplement. HPD’s Hoof Supplement, is fantastic value, it includes biotin, organic zinc and methionine, to help promote strong, healthy, pliable hooves. Respiratory issues

Respiration can be a problem in winter due to a lack of fresh air in stabled horses and dust spores in hay. One of the best supplements to aid respiratory health is garlic. HPD offer high quality garlic granules, which are well reported for their beneficial properties to the respiratory tract. Loss of condition

Winter can be stressful for horses and ponies and extra energy is often used keeping warm. It is important to ensure your horse or pony has plenty of fibre in their diet, as fibre digestion produces (continued on page 42)

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24/10/2014 11:55

Feeding

FEEDING ANIMALS WITH PROBLEM FEET

Dr Derek Cuddeford, Royal (Dick) School of Veterinary Studies, University of Edinburgh

veryone knows the old saw “No hoof, no horse”. This is rather misleading as the hooves per se are not solely (no pun intended) responsible for problem feet eg., navicular; there are other issues to consider. There are a number of diseases of the feet including corns, laminitis, sand cracks, navicular, abscesses, white line disease and thrush. Of these problems, feeding affects few although management can have a large impact as in the case of thrush. Laminitis and sand cracks are most affected by nutrition and the ability of the hoof horn to “hold” a shoe depends on its structure. There is a marked difference in weight-bearing between the forelegs and the hind legs because the horse’s weight is unevenly distributed as a result of the protuberance of the head and neck. Thus, the forelegs carry 60% of the horse’s weight so you can imagine the loading of each leg when a 500kg horse jumps a fence; it is 150kg per leg! Think of the size of a hoof belonging to a 500kg horse and compare it with the area covered by your own shoes. For a fairly hefty 80kg adult the loading is only 40kg per foot; roughly 25% of that a horse carries! The concussive forces on a horse’s legs and hooves are enormous.

What constitutes healthy hoof horn? For starters, the water content of the different parts of the foot are key to well being. For example, optimal figures would be 17-24% in the wall, ~33% in the sole and ~50% in the frog. Reduction in the water content of the wall weakens it so stabling horses on sand is probably not advised. However, some recent research throws doubt on this. Feral horses coming from three very different environments, wet and boggy, partially flooded and constantly dry desert had the same degree of hoof wall hydration (29%). Dry or soaked forefeet from Quarter horses showed no differences in terms of hydration! Poor quality softer horn has a higher water content. It has been shown that the water content at the coronary band of ponies was 29% and 27% at the tip of the toe. This was associated with a 30% increase in hoof strength. Thus one can conclude that the tensile properties of hoof wall are profoundly influenced by hydration status. Hoof growth is affected by a multitude of factors. Protein and amino acids, energy intake, calcium, zinc, vitamin A and biotin largely represent the nutritional factors. But of course, there are many other influences such as environment, hydration, farriery, age, genetics, nature of exercise, work surface and of course breed. One of the most obvious nutritional influences is that of energy intake. Sub maintenance feeding will result in shortages of nutrients to support hoof growth which will be much slower as a result; hoof strength is unaffected. The classic change in hoof growth is seen when horses are turned out to grass and presented with an excess of feed. At this time hoof growth takes off but of course they receive not just an (continued on page 16)

HEALTHY HOOVES Q

uick, convenient and excellent value for money, Fibre-Beet from British Horse Feeds is formulated using all the benefits of SpeediBeet incorporated with good quality Alfalfa, making it a great conditioning feed. Approved by The Laminitis Trust this low sugar/high fibre feed is an ideal source of fibre for horses and ponies prone to laminitis. Added Biotin also helps to maintain hoof integrity. RRP for a 20kg bag of Fibre-Beet is around £11.95-£12.90. For more information please contact British Horse Feeds on +44 (0)1765 680300 or visit www.britishhorsefeeds.com

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24/10/2014 11:55

Project2_Layout 1 07/08/2014 16:15 Page 1

Feeding Xxxxxxxxxx

Dear Dr Cuddeford...

NOITIDNOC PEEK

thus fibre intakes compared to hay. However, if the haylage is better quality than the hay then you would automatically feed more nutrients and energy on an equal DM basis. Soaking hay is intended to remove the soluble carbohydrates which can be plentiful in grass hays generally. The soluble carbohydrate content of haylage is regulated by the extent of fermentation that has occurred. Very well fermented haylage contains very little soluble carbohydrate so it is not worth soaking it. Very high DM haylage is a different proposition as little fermentation will have taken place and thus it is worth soaking it. In my opinion the best approach You pose some interesting for your laminitis-prone/overweight questions! The dry content (DM) of animals would be to balance feeding hay is usually around 86% but the good haylage alongside ad libitum dry content of haylage can vary from good quality feeding straw. In this 50 to75% so if you have a “wet” way you provide nutrients, a limited haylage it is possible to underfeed supply of energy and suﬃcient fibre. fibre. The quality of haylage is Of course animals must be adapted generally superior to that of hay to this protocol and teeth checked. on a dry basis so it can be easier to overfeed energy. dna stneirtun ,nietorp( gnihtyreve fIfoyou eroare m at ,ylall larworried etil etiuabout Q na shortage of trace elements/vits then a Let us consider some equivalents: sevitanretla repaehc naht poocs rep )seirolac elbitsegid broad spectrum supplement could be 10kg hay (86%DM)=8.6kg hay erusneDM ot (100%DM)=14.3kg yaw euqinu nwo ruhaylage o ni derapeused rp sas tnwe eidknow ergniinytparts ilauQ n of Scotland Facebook.com/naturalvetnutrition soil trace on the low (60%DM)=8.6kg haylage DM stlelements user mucan mixbeam @NVetnutrition lot ofn sun (100% DM) ragus wol ,eerf yelrabside ,lioand hgithe h ,gabsence nitaehof -naoN in Argyll could mean some vit D It is apparent from the example krow dratohfeed ot pmore u tser ta swould einopbe&good. sesroh lla roF n that you would need our article in Equi-ads (August 2014) is very helpful and we have just changed over from making hay to making haylage. All our ponies err on the side of being overweight and two have been prone to laminitis in the past; we have kept it controlled by limited grazing and always soaking their hay. Should the haylage for those two have the same soaking, or longer? It is all made from the meadow grass in our own fields and organicallly grown. Shian Maclean Oban, Argyll.

RETNIW SIHT eniL poT 4.on syeliaB sebuC gninoitidnoC

enil pot ,enot elcsum gnidnatstuO enihs taoc gninrut-daeh &

haylage to equalise DM intakes and

Dr Derek Cuddeford

Ask your vet to check for redworm! T

his year’s annual National Equine Health Survey*, held in May, revealed that one in five owners who claimed to have treated their animal for encysted small redworm (ESRW) used a wormer that was not indicated to treat these potentially lethal encysted parasites. Encysted small redworms are one of the most common and harmful worms found in horses. They are the larval stages of the small redworm that have buried into the lining of the gut where they can lie dormant for some time. They pose a potentially fatal health risk but won’t show up in a standard faecal worm egg count. Untreated, encysted small redworm may develop and emerge en masse from the gut wall in the early spring, causing diarrhoea and colic with a mortality rate of up to 50% It’s crucial to remember that even if your horse’s faecal worm egg count is negative you must still treat for encysted small redworm before the early spring, to protect your horse from this deadly parasite.

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24/10/2014 22/10/2014 11:56 12:25

Feeding

SET YOUR HORSE THE LIKIT CHALLENGE

eveloped to help horses overcome stable stress and boredom, the Likit range has something for every type of equine, from the shy retiring type, to the inquisitive extrovert. To help you decide which product suits your

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particular horse, the company has devised the Likit Challenge System which grades the different levels of difficulty and ensures your horse gets the most out his Likit Stable Toys. The Likit Holder is an ideal entry level product for a horse that has never used stable toys before, or for one who is less adventurous. If your horse is up for more of a challenge however, then consider the Snak-a-Ball or Tongue Twister. While the Tongue Twister is designed to hold one or two Little Likits and spins as the horse uses it, the Snak-a-Ball can be filled with Likit Snaks or horse & pony cubes so that it releases food onto the floor as it rolls - this process is controlled by a unique internal baﬄe plate, or ‘snak-o-meter’, which ensures that feed is delivered slowly onto the ground to slow consumption rates and encourage natural foraging behaviour. If you want to up the game further, the Boredom Breaker should intensify his interest. Perhaps try placing a Salt Likit in

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the top and either one or two Little Likits in the ball, and mix and match flavours for added variety. Alternatively, for the horse who needs plenty of mental stimulation, try the Boredom Buster in conjunction with one or two Little Likits. As your horse licks, the Boredom Buster will move and spin and you also can clip on a Likit Holder to add another dimension. By trying different Likit flavours and introducing new interests, you will be providing your horse with hours of stimulation and fun, which in turn will make him a much happier equine. For further information on the Likit range and the Challenge System, check out the Behind the Science page on the Likit website, www.likit.co.uk or call 01655 750523 for information and advice.

Feeding the older horse in the Winter • Managing Muck Heaps! • Diarrhoea • Sixteen Plus • Keeping Supple • Christmas Gift Ideas PLUS the latest news, events and more besides COPY DEADLINE 10TH NOVEMBER EDITORIAL TO BOB@EQUIADS.NET

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Feeding

ENHANCE YOUR HORSE’S PERFORMANCE with the Equine Premium range

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What you need to know about Probiotics P

rotexin Equine Premium’s range is a collection of probiotics and prebiotics developed to protect and support the horse’s digestive system in specific circumstances. Here Protexin explain 10 things you need to know about probiotics: 1. Probiotics are supplements added to the horse’s diet which contain live beneficial micro organisms that optimise intestinal microbial health. 2. Probiotics are defined by the World Health Organisation (WHO) as “live microorganisms which when administered in adequate amounts confer a health benefit on the host”. 3. Probiotics have been shown to increase the efficiency of digestion. Demonstrating an improved digestive system and overall health of a horse. 4. Within the gut, beneficial as well as pathogenic microorganisms will be utilising the same types of nutrients. This results in a general competition between microorganisms for these nutrients. When a probiotic is administered there is an overall reduction in nutrients available for pathogenic bacteria and consequently this minimises the levels of pathogenic microorganisms which can cause disease. 5. Probiotics attach to the gut wall and form colonies at various sites throughout the gut. This prevents pathogenic bacteria from gaining a foothold, resulting in their expulsion from the body and helping the overall health of your horse. 6. A probiotic should have no nutrition or energy value so it can be combined with any diet. With no risk of overdose. 7. Probiotics have been shown to

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increase levels of immunity and the effectiveness of infection-fighting cells (white blood cells). 8. Make sure your probiotics are manufactured with high quality standards and the correct processes. This is imperative and ensures that the product meets label specifications and is also effective and safe to use, so use a well established reputable brand. Within the EU all probiotics must be registered for use in an individual animal species. For example, Saccharomyces cerevisiae (NCYC Sc47) 4b1702 is registered for use in horses. 9. Probiotics in the Equine Premium range are specifically developed to survive the transit through the gut with a unique process involving freeze drying and micro encapsulation which improves stability throughout the GI tract. The Equine Premium range is fully BETA NOPS compliant for use in Competition and Race Horses. 10. Protexin’s unique Preplex prebiotic feeds the beneficial microorganisms in the gut and helps restore the balance of the microflora promoting effective health, recovery and performance in horses. The Protexin Equine Premium Range includes Gut Balancer, Acid Ease, Quick Fix, Gut Bind and Recover Aid, designed to assist in building up the horse’s health and performance. For more information please contact Protexin on 01460 243230 or visit www.equinepremium.com.

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The specification of Hoof Mender is quite unique and no other company matches our formula. This formula will produce strong new hoof growth, GUARANTEED or your money back! Equimins offer a full money back warranty. If you have not seen any improvement in hoof quality after using Hoof Mender for a year, they will refund all of the money you have spent on the product. FOR THE AVERAGE HORSE: n 3kg will last 50 days n 5kg will last 83 days POWDER n TRIAL SIZE 1.8kg Eco Pack £22.25 (1 months supply) n 3kg £34.30 n 5kg £53.65 n 10kg £91.35 n 20kg £157.95

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Feeding

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n addition to the well-known chaff range, the company also produces three specialist ‘complete’ fibre-based feeds – Mollichaff Calmer (for nervous or fizzy equines), Mollichaff Condition (for added weight and condition/poor doers) and Mollichaff HoofKind (for laminitics/good doers/ equines convalescing or resting). The word ‘complete’ is used to denote that the feeds contain a broad spectrum vitamin and mineral supplement, which means that when fed at the recommended amounts, no further concentrate feed is required – just good quality forage. Fibre-based feed, is a more natural way of feeding compared to a cerealbased diet. Horses have evolved to utilise a high fibre diet, using bacterial fermentation in a highly developed large intestine. Low levels of fibre, or poor quality fibre in the diet put horses at serious risk of problems such as colic and gastric ulcers. For free information on feeding your horse or pony or for further information on our range of forage and feeds, contact the HorseHage Helpline on 01803 527257 or visit www.horsehage.co.uk

(continued from page 9) oversupply of energy but also a bonus supply of nutrients. Growth rates can be 50% more at grass compared to limit-fed animals. Since hoof horn contains more than 90% protein dietary levels will be important together with constituent amino acids. Some research has demonstrated a linear relationship between cystine content and hoof hardness in normal horn but not in poor horn. Quality horn contained higher levels of a number of amino acids. Supplements for feeding to horses with problem feet often contain methionine, a sulphur-containing amino acid but it is not the silver bullet. It simply acts as a precursor for cysteine which is essential for the formation of good horn. Protein-deficient diets cause splitting and cracking as well as slower growth. Thus it will be apparent from the foregoing that to avoid problem feet one must ensure adequate intakes of both energy and protein. There is no need to worry about individual amino acids provided the diet contains good quality protein such as found in alfalfa. Some years ago work at Edinburgh Vet School showed that provision of alfalfa to horses with biotinunresponsive brittle feet caused significant improvements in hoof quality. However, the question remains, was it the additional protein or, the additional calcium? In view of the low cost of calcium it would be negligent to provide diets low in the mineral particularly as it is essential for good bone growth. Zinc always receives lots of attention but is it worth it? It is of course considered essential for the integrity of the skin, hoof and hair but supplementing already zinc sufficient diets is unlikely to have any beneficial impact. Some German research raised the possibility that there may be individual differences

in the ways that horses “handle” zinc. It maybe that there are differences in absorption and utilisation but unfortunately we cannot identify these animals. Many trace elements are sold in a bound organic form or chelate on the basis that there is better absorption etc. Several studies in the USA have failed to show a difference between inorganic and organic sources of trace elements in terms of hoof benefits so do not believe the hype and save yourself some spondulicks.................... Essentially it is not worth supplementing the diet of the horse that has problem feet with expensive trace elements provided the diet is adequate for all nutrients. Vitamins play a role in hoof horn quality. A significant role for vitamin A is in the maintenance of the epithelium and thus may have a function in the hoof. It is considered necessary for normal hoof growth but in practice it is highly unlikely that horses will be deficient in A. Horses can store it in the liver and consume bucket loads of the A precursor, beta-carotene when grazing green grass. The vitamin that has received much attention is biotin. Studies have shown that this vitamin can increase the growth rate of hooves. Disappointing results have sometimes been obtained when sub-optimal levels of the vitamin have been used. A study in Edinburgh at the Vet School obtained significant improvements in hoof growth as a result of biotin supplementation. However the level used was 0.12mg/kg bodyweight, so for every 100kg, 12mg should be fed and a 450kg horse would require 54mg/day which is way over recommended levels of ~15mg/day. Hoof horn condition improves after biotin supplementation. However, this is not a quick fix and it can take several months to see any real improvements; there is no clear (continued on page 21) www.equi-ads.com

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HORSE BEHAVIOUR - Speaking the language part 26 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.)

CLASSICAL CONDITIONING: ‘The process whereby the unconditioned or conditioned response becomes elicited from a conditioned stimulus (Pavlov, 1927). In equitation, it is the process where learned responses are elicited from more subtle versions of the same signal or to entirely new signals.’

erhaps I should say at the outset that the word ‘classical’ in this month’s topic is not specifically to do with our understanding of classical riding, although classical conditioning in the behavioural/ scientific sense certainly takes place during classical riding. A very famous classical master of the 20th century, Nuno Oliveira, had a saying which explains the process of classical conditioning although perhaps he wasn’t thinking of that when he coined it: ‘At first, you may have to shout the aid and the horse will whisper the response. In time, you can whisper the aid and the horse will shout the response.’ Both the above quotation from the glossary we are following and

Oliveira’s saying mean that in the early days of a horse’s schooling or training, known among equitation scientists as Foundation Training, a very apt term, or in the re-training or rehabilitation of a horse who has been subjected to inappropriate techniques and has become something of a ‘problem’, we need to be very deliberate and consistent with our aids, and may need to apply more pressure, and for longer, than we would like but, gradually, the horse learns what to do (he becomes classically conditioned to the process) and responds quicker and to a lighter, more subtle aid. This can only happen, of course, if the rider gradually uses

T TM

increasingly lighter and more subtle aids to give the horse a chance to respond to them, and become classically conditioned. It can only happen, also, if the rider stops (releases) the aid instantly when the horse responds as she wishes, which tells him that he has responded in such a way as to stop that aid. Sadly for many horses today, riding with aids ‘on’ all or most of the time is actually often taught as correct whereas it is anything but. For instance, keeping the horse on a persistently over-firm bit contact (an extremely common rider/trainer fault) upsets him, ‘deadens’ his mouth (he becomes habituated or used to the (probably painful) pressure and ignores or tolerates it), and gives him no chance to learn to balance himself and become that prized possession of a well-balanced horse who is genuinely light in hand on a contact which is comfortable for himself and his rider. The same thing happens with leg aids. Many riders today, sometimes without realising it, give the horse a leg aid, usually with the heel, at every stride. Teaching riders to ‘keep

your leg on’ as in using it at every stride simply habituates him to it and teaches him to ignore the leg, or heel, pressure. He cannot become classically conditioned to light leg aids (or develop ‘light sides’) under these circumstances. MOVING ON You will note that the quotation indicates that learned responses can be elicited from entirely new signals. A simple way to elaborate on this is to use the example of weight aids, widely used among good classical riders but not so much elsewhere. Although many horses respond naturally to weight aids, such as the rider purposely putting more weight on one seatbone or down into one stirrup than the other for turning or straightening, when teaching very basic responses to aids (signals or cues) it may be simpler for the horse to be taught only bit and leg aids at first. When he is used to these and responds lightly and quickly (having become classically conditioned to them), we can introduce weight aids as well for turning, and gradually reduce the use of the rein, bit and legs (but see below under ‘A Word

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Training • Healthcare of Warning’). Initially, a young horse will be taught to turn right, for example, in response to pressure in his mouth from the right side of the bit and vice versa – this is the ‘direct rein’ turn, using the inside, (right) and, more clearly, open rein. When he is responding to this quickly and lightly (having become – that phrase again - classically conditioned to it), we can introduce turning (right, in the case we are considering) in response to the outside (left) rein pressed sideways against his neck, the ‘indirect rein’ turn, gradually reducing the use of the direct, inside rein until it is simply an open rein inviting him round, with very little contact. AN IMPORTANT POINT: It is crucial that the outside rein is NOT pulled backwards to give the indirect turn aid, as is often done, to the confusion of the horse who could think you want him to turn left (because there will be pressure on the left side of his mouth), and to the rider when the turn to the right doesn’t happen. All you do, while giving a light, inside, direct rein turn to the right, is also press the outside, left, indirect rein sideways against his neck just in front of the withers. AND ANOTHER: Be careful not to carry your left hand over the withers to the right side: this will probably result in the horse turning his head and neck left and his quarters right, which is exactly what you don’t want. Gradually, your horse will turn lightly and instantly to the indirect rein because – you’ve got it – he has become classically conditioned to do so. Because horses naturally control their forward direction with the shoulders and forelegs rather than the head and neck, turn aids from the indirect rein are actually easier for them and result in betterbalanced turns. If your horse is new to indirect rein turns, you can make your aid, and training, clearer by tapping with your knuckles or fingertips on the ‘indirect’ side; that is, if

you want to turn right, give your light, direct, open rein to the right and tap, fairly firmly in the early days, on the left side of the withers. Short, sharp feelings like this equate to nips, bites and kicks in horse communication and they mean ‘go away’. Horses naturally move away from them so they learn this type of turn very quickly, and you can soon start gradually replacing the taps with your sideways rein aid pressed on his neck. (Once he has turned, stop the tapping or rein pressure the instant he is where you want him or he will keep turning.) In equitation science, the hands (reins/bit) are used to slow down, shorten the stride, stop and rein back, and to turn the forehand. The legs are used to ask for ‘go’, lengthening of stride, changes of gait, increases of speed or energy and to turn the hindquarters. This makes aids very simple for the rider and very clear to the horse. If you like (and I do), you can classically condition your horse to turn from your seat – a weight aid – as mentioned near the beginning of this article. This obviously works best if you’ve taken the trouble to give yourself a stable, balanced, classical seat (see Sylvia Loch’s book ‘The Classical Seat’). If you want to turn left (let’s have a change), just push your left seatbone forward a little, and your horse will almost certainly turn, if a little hesitantly at first. To enhance this aid, you can put a little weight on your left seatbone, and also down your left leg by stretching it down into your stirrup. Sylvia describes this as ‘stepping down into your stirrup’. Even if you do nothing else, your horse will turn because he wants to stay balanced under your weight. However, to classically condition him (getting the same result, a turn, from a new signal – see quotation above), you need to give a ‘turn’ rein aid a second later, keeping both on together in the early days. I’d wait until he’s responding well to the indirect rein turn aid before introducing the weight aid. Once

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‘IT’S LIKE A BREATH OF FRESH AIR!’ wrote a subscriber to ‘TRACKING-UP’ published by In our current issue: A MATTER OF SUBSTANCE, Susan McBane: TURN ON THE FOREHAND, Anne Wilson: DRESSAGE v. SHOWING, Lesley Skipper: SCHOOL TERMINOLOGY and USE OF THE ARENA, Anne Wilson: COPING WITH PAIN, INJURY and DISEASE, Susan McBane: COACHING SKILLS for RIDING INSTRUCTORS, Caitlin Collins: LEADERSHIP IN EQUINE FAMILIES, Lesley Skipper: THROUGHNESS: LIGHT and HEAVY SEATS, Sylvia Loch: plus Judging the Grand Prix test, Hypersalivation, Military Equitation and Dressage, and a Reader Offer and review of ‘Dressage Solutions’ by Arthur Kottas. ‘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 ‘TUA24’, on the back of your cheque payable to ‘Tracking-up’ and post it to Anne Wilson, Park End House, Robins Folly, Thurleigh, Beds., MK44 2EQ.

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more enjoyable and stress free for both horse and owner. Clipping usually takes between 1-2 hours and the process is made a lot less stressful if your equine is happy to stand still and remain calm. Mini Horslyx will help keep your horse’s attention for long periods of time, making it the perfect tool to help ensure clipping goes without a hitch. The hand-held tub can be offered by a helper, or placed in a bucket, and will help keep your horse content for long

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Healthcare

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Good Feed = Good Feet

oor coat and hoof quality are perhaps the most visible signs that the equine diet is falling short of requirements but before you reach for a supplement it’s worth looking at the complete picture to identify the underlying reason for nutrient deficiencies. Good quality balanced feeds will be fully formulated to meet the horse’s requirement for energy, protein, vitamins and minerals. Consequently, your horse should already be receiving the nutrients required for good health and well-being, providing the ration is designed for his current level of work or maintenance and fed at the recommended daily rate. If that is the case, and assuming that good management practices are in place (worming, teeth, ample good quality forage etc), there may be other reasons the horse is not thriving and this can include overuse of supplements. Scientifically formulated rations already account for the hugely complex interactions that take place between various nutrients, so additional supplementation can upset this balance. If concerned, ask your feed manufacturer. Digestive health and nutrient availability also come into play. Digestive upset affects the microbial balance in the gut and reduces nutrient absorption. Quality rations containing probiotics and prebiotics help support and maintain gut health, while cooked and digestible ingredients further enable the horse to take more from the diet. Chelated minerals also improve bioavailability, passing more readily across the gut wall. Keratin production is important for healthy hoof and hair, so key nutrients will include zinc which is more easily absorbed in chelated form. It takes many months for quality growth to work its way down the hooves so be patient and rest in the knowledge that you can see the line of healthy hoof steadily progressing downwards. Case Study: Rama, 7 year old ex-racehorse bought out of training Owner: Rachel Robinson “When I bought Rama 18 months ago his feet were incredibly bad, he was constantly losing shoes and his hooves splayed out where the wall was so weak. I put him on a hoof supplement but it wasn’t making any difference and his feet hardly seemed to grow. “Keyflow looked at the entire diet rather than just focussing on his hooves. That meant switching to Mark Todd Perfect Balance with Stay Cool initially and then Maestro as his workload increased. I put all the horses on Keyflow at the same time and while Rama was my main concern, I noticed an improvement in all of them. A year on and the new growth has completely worked its way down and the walls are strong and self supporting. Finally Rama keeps his shoes on.” Rachel’s farrier, Marc Mathison Dip WCF ATF: “The difference in the horses’ feet has been amazing since feeding Keyflow but the biggest change has been in Rama. The quality in the horn is so much better and the speed in the growth of the horn has also improved.” For more information on equine nutrition, contact Keyflow Feeds on 01672 519000 or visit keyflowfeeds.com or grab a free sample via keyflowfeeds.com/free-sample

(continued from page 16) timeline for this effect to become apparent. Thus in reality 15 to 20mg biotin should be fed daily to a 500kg horse for at least one year. This is an expensive undertaking bearing in mind some horses do not respond. A properly balanced diet would meet biotin requirement dispensing with the need for expensive supplements. In conclusion there are no quick fixes when it comes to hoof care. www.equi-ads.com

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Training (continued from page 19) he has turned, just return your seatbone to its position level with the right one (otherwise he could well keep turning). He will very quickly become accustomed to this naturally-feeling aid and you will find it a great advantage in your riding. A WORD OF WARNING: It is always most important to keep your horse up to the mark on his obedience to the bit and leg aids because these are much more likely to get you out of trouble in an emergency. It’s fine to ride with nearly everything condensed down into your seat and weight like a bullfighter, and your voice which is a great training aid sadly under-used today, but if your horse is charging hell for leather towards something you’d rather not encounter, such as a brick wall, a motorway, a lorry, a deep lake, the sea or whatever spells D-E-A-T-H to you, he’s most unlikely to stop from your seat or voice. Revise his responses to bit and legs every time you ride. If he is losing obedience, promptness or lightness in his responses to those aids, as in everything else return to basics and revise them. It only takes a few minutes. Do not get angry with him because it’s not his fault. It is a natural process to become less and less responsive to a learned skill or response, as opposed to a natural or instinctive, ‘hard-wired’ one, if the teacher does not keep the horse up to the mark. In hand, revise his ability to respond lightly to your leading aids. He must walk at your speed, not his, in your direction (including back for a few steps) every time and must stop and stand still (known as ‘park’ in equitation science terminology) when told. He must not pull you around, he must not barge, trample you, loiter with no intent of going with you, stop to investigate things, graze, talk to his friends, unless you say he can. All these things are safety essentials for him and for you. He must get into that habit and

you must hold him, and yourself, to it if you want to be as safe as is reasonably possible around horses. Don’t think that because you’ve taught him something once the switch is turned on for ever. Revise everything regularly. BOOKS TO READ: To learn more about equitation science, equine learning theory and how horses think and operate, try the following books. ‘Equitation Science’ by Paul McGreevy and Andrew McLean: ‘Equine Behavior’ by Paul McGreevy: ‘Inside Your Horse’s Mind’ by Lesley Skipper: ‘Knowing Your Horse’ by Emma Lethbridge, and ‘The Horse Behaviour Handbook’ by Abigail Hogg. 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, co-founder 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

DON’T MISS THIS! BRAIN-TRAINING FOR HORSES How Horses Learn, and why we need to know by Lesley Skipper This new booklet from the Tracking-up Library could change your and your horse’s lives. It explains how horses really learn, and how to train using humane, effective methods. In 40 A4 illustrated pages it covers: The horse’s brain and intelligence; different learning modes; punishment; understanding and using negative and positive reinforcement; getting the timing right; behaviour modiﬁcation; training good behaviours; breaking it down into easy steps; plus recommended reading. For your copy, clearly print your name, address and ‘BTH.EA’ on the back of a cheque for £6.70 made payable to ‘Tracking-up’, and post it to Anne Wilson, Park End House, Robins Folly, Thurleigh, Beds., MK44 2EQ.

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back pain. Firstly however, we must mull over the commonalities. Ill fitting tack, poor rider position, bilateral fore or hind limb lameness are often precipitating factors and must be addressed along with or before any significant consideration is given to or of primary back pathology. Secondly, with careful observation, palpation and clinical examination elucidation of areas of the spine to concentrate on can be devised. Cervical for Wobblers, thoracic and thoracolumbar for kissing spine, facet joint osteoarthritis and supraspinous ligament lesions, the sacro-ilium and pelvis for sacro-iliac ligament desmitis, osteoarthritis, pelvic stress fractures, iliac artery thrombosis and finally ovarian tumors, scrotal contusion and adhesions. It is perhaps then unsurprising to find or to expect that full evaluation of a horses back is rarely achieved in a single session but over a period of examination days. Equally this will involve several complimentary techniques; imaging protocols including radiography, ultrasound and often scintigraphy (bone scans) in combination with

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hen presented with a lame horse, the wisen among us should ascribe the differentials fall into one or more of three categories. Lameness due to pain, due to a mechanical interference, or lameness due to a neurological deficit. This is quite correct and will diagnose the vast majority of diseases affecting the back such as overriding dorsal spinous processes (kissing spines), abnormal saddle fit &/or rider position, and cervical malformation or instability (Wobblers) respectively. But, with back pain in horses presenting with a myriad of subtle signs from lameness and lack of hind limb impulsion, a dropping of performance in any and many disciplines, a change in attitude or behaviour, to loss of top line or tying up and girthing pain to name a few. The variety of possible presenting signs means that for full evaluation, we need to add a few other “lameness” associated categories; namely primary muscular disease, primary gastrointestinal disease and even ovarian and testicular/scrotal disorders to fully consider and elucidate a horse with apparent

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his high quality juice offers an all round boost to the animal's immune system and well being. It can also work as a tonic for older or run down horses recovering from injury. Only the highest grade organic inner leaf of the Aloe Vera Plant has been used in this product. RRP £10.50 www. kmeliteproducts. co.uk Tel: 01403 759659.

Whilst primary muscular disease is less common, rhabdomyolysis, either recurrent and associated with exertion or, obviously, not associated with exertion (such as polysaccharide storage myopathy) should not be discounted. In both cases horses may present with poor top lines (and usual saddle area pain as a result), loss of performance and sub-clinical disease precipitating a lengthy investigation into the back. However, exercise testing with biochemical parameter assessment may be wholly appropriate with consideration of the horses’ diet, stabling and exercise management being vital to address before seeing significant improvements. Just because your horse is not a Quarter horse or Draft does not preclude the possibility as Thorughbreds and Standardbreds are well represented in the conditions. Equally many pleasure horses are diagnosed with gastric ulceration, often at the pylorus, or exit of the stomach into the small intestine, where the action of tightening the girth produces a pain response often misinterpreted as a cold back. Again the symptoms of gastric ulceration can be vague from simple poor performance to weight loss, cribbing and wind sucking, and change in faecal consistency. Here, gastroscopic evaluation of the horses’ stomach is necessary for assessment followed by an often prolonged course of acid suppression treatment in combination with dietary and pasture management and simple exercise protocols to prevent recurrence. For fear of sounding sanctimonious back pain can be extremely rewarding to investigate, diagnose and treat. Many horses live with owner ignorance or worse benign neglect and acceptance that their horse has a sore back where consideration of facets of management along with relatively simple therapeutic protocols can completely transform a once, has been, nag into a born again superstar.

nerve or joint blocks or with simple anaesthetic infiltration into an area such as the sacroiliac joint or where questionable vertebral dorsal spinous process changes are seen. These techniques largely provide a diagnosis and framework for treatment. For osteoarthritic conditions, infiltration of corticosteroid, use of reparative and retraining physiotherapeutic and riding tec hniques usually results in a good prognosis for a full return to work. Shockwave for ligamentous disease and the implementation of biologic (stem cell) therapies is currently in vogue and also provide favourable results along-side rest and a scaled return to exercise. B Occasionally surgical debridement of an area is required where conservative treatment has failed but is less common, has implicit complications, requires a substantial period of lay off and is less common. Again for most techniques, consideration of the exercise programme, developmental exercise techniques in combination with bioanabolics and local or systemic analgesics will result in good returns to performance. Importantly, it is vital to emphasise that very often, horses require ongoing evaluations during the rehabilitation phase. If painful or inflamed areas continue to cause distress or altered mechanics then the rehab will prove limited and further therapy is required. Equally, it is not unusual to identify second areas of pathology, not necessarily confined to the back, but in the limbs which become more evident as the back pain recedes and may in fact be the be the primary cause of the presenting back issue and so require equal attention. Bone spavin, stifle pain, suspensory desmitis and heel pain are all common findings in such cases. It is important then to continue to have an open mind in a horse with back pain, to continue to involve your vet in ongoing and future evaluations, to expect further treatments and to also understand when new areas are highlighted for investigation, evaluation and treatment. It is important fundamentally to recognise that the vast majority of horses presented for back pain have more than one problem. Lastly, as highlighted, horses presented for back pain may not necessarily fall into the identified musculoskeletal categories of pain, neurological or mechanical dysfunction, medical causes are also recognised. Perhaps the two most important are muscular disease and gastro-intestinal disease.

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24/10/2014 11:59

Personality Profile

‘Five Minutes With...” Sophie Wells and valerius

Sophie Wells and pinochio

Sophie Wells and Pinnochio London Para Olympics

Dressage rider

Sophie Wells

Sophie Wells MBE is a successful dressage rider and competes up to Grand Prix level in able bodied competitions, notably competing at the Young Rider European Dressage Championships in 2010, and in 2008 becoming the first para-equestrian dressage rider to win an able-bodied international competition, finishing first in Hickstead’s under-21 international class. Sophie also competes as a Para Dressage Grade IV rider, and her two top horses are Pinocchio and Valerius. At the recent World Equestrian Games, she netted a Team Gold for Britain, and two individual silver medals. “I was seven when I first knew that was what I wanted to be involved with horses. I thought they were very majestic animals, and still do! Although the wet weather and the fact that horse riding is a very expensive sport can be galling, I love it. Higher prize money would definitely be helpful to both owners and riders, as it can be very

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difficult to keep going, but we don't do it for the money, or to have money, do we?! In terms of key things I have learned from my most influential equestrian mentors, I believe that when you are competing for a team, if you do the best for yourself, it will also be good enough for the team. Also, I have learnt to appreciate what you have in the moment, and to take each day as it comes - the low points make you appreciate the high points even more. If I am asked which horse I would love to have the ride on, I would be torn between German rider Helen Langehanenberg’s ride Damon Hill, and Brit Charlotte Dujardin’s ride Valegro. Those two dressage horses both look like the love what they do, and are very willing and want to do the job; that makes a massive difference, and they are obviously very talented animals. I do enjoy watching other successful sports horses; in my discipline of dressage, I believe that equine temperament, natural ability and a willingness to learn are key. It’s much better to have a horse that is willing and wants to do it, than one that is very talented, yet doesn't have the temperament for it, as you can’t put that in - but you can do a lot with training! The motto I live by is actually “S*** happens”! Life’s about ability not disability, and everything happens for a reason; you get out of life what you put in. This

Sophie Wells and valerius

attitude keeps you grounded, and helps you deal with things that you can’t always explain - you can make your own path if you work hard

enough. It’s got to be a real mix to enable you to deal with everything that is thrown at you, but to also make something of yourself.”

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Condition. Comfort. There’s something comforting about having your horse in great condition over winter. It certainly becomes more of a challenge to build and maintain weight during the colder months however, there is an easy solution. Adding Key-Plus by the mugful to the existing daily diet provides concentrated calories in their most digestible form through the advanced cooking process wet steam extrusion. Made from stabilised rice bran extract Key-Plus is a gluten free, low starch, low GI concentrate that delivers amazingly effective results. Try feeding Key-Plus and discover the comfort and enjoyment of having your horse in perfect condition this winter.

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24/10/2014 11:59

Xxxxxxxxxx

Healthcare

Jane King BVet Med MRCVS Westmoreland Veterinary Group

FOOT ABSCESSES A

foot abscess, also known as ‘pus in the foot’, is an infection in the hoof. Bacteria enter the hoof through the sole, which leads to the development of an abscess (pus). The hoof capsule can’t expand and the pus puts pressure on the sensitive tissues within the foot as it accumulates, causing pain and lameness. The pain will continue until the pressure is released when the abscess bursts, usually through the sole of the foot but occasionally through the coronary band. Foot abscesses are commonly seen around the white line area where foreign bodies such as grit penetrate the white line, allowing bacteria to enter the foot. Abscesses can also occur on the sole secondary to bruising of the foot, for example if the horse stands on a flint. Blood from the bruise can carry bacteria and cause an abscess to develop. CLINICAL SIGNS Foot abscesses can sometimes be confused with other conditions but the following section will talk you through the most common signs of a foot abscess. • The horse will usually appear severely lame very quickly and may be unwilling to put weight on the leg. However, some horses may only appear mildly or moderately lame. It is also not uncommon for a horse to go lame and come sound, only to go lame again three to four days later, with the lameness getting progressively worse. • The abscessed foot may be warmer to the touch than the normal foot. • There may be swelling around the pastern, although this is less common. The swelling can travel higher up the leg, which can sometimes make it look like an other condition such as tendonitis and cellulitis and confuse the diagnosis. • If you suspect your horse has a foot abscess, you should contact your vet for advice on the best course of action. If we suspect a foot abscess, the vet will use hoof testers to try and pin point the location of the abscess.

Hoof Products

Hoof Mender 75 quimins’ Hoof Mender 75 contains high levels of important ingredients, helps to support challenged hooves and comes with a money back guarantee. The supplement contains high levels of chelated zinc methionate for strong keratin growth, 75mg per day of biotin, and 27 other active ingredients (including organically bound zinc, MSM and more) that help to support hoof growth and overall condition. If the horse’s owner doesn’t see an improvement in hoof condition after feeding the supplement for 12 months, Equimins will refund their money- see the website for more information. Hoof Mender 75 is available in powder or pellet form, in 1.8kg20kg quantities. Prices start from £22.25.

Biotin Plus 25 ombining 25mg of biotin per daily amount with chelated zinc methionate bound to an amino acid, Biotin Plus 25 helps support healthy hooves, the condition of the coat and skin in one easy to feed supplement. The supplement helps to support strong keratin growth in the hoof- essential for healthy hooves- by combining biotin with the correct form of zinc. Biotin Plus 25 is the ideal supplement for when hooves are in need of support and biotin alone is not enough. Biotin Plus 25 is available in 1kg-3kg tubs and prices start from £14.75. For more information see www.equimins.com, email sales@ equimins.com or call 01548 531770.

28 | November 2014

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24/10/2014 11:59

Healthcare • Jobs

An increased reaction to hoof testers will help to locate any part of the foot that may be sensitive or painful; this is done by applying pressure with the hoof testers from heel to toe. If your horse is shod, the shoe may need to be removed. • The white line may also be pared using a hoof knife to identify any tracts that could indicate the location of the abscess. Once the location of the abscess is known, the vet can open the abscess to allow the pus to escape (the pus may be grey/black), which will release the pressure and relieve the pain. TREATMENT • Once a hole has been created, treatment of foot abscesses mainly revolves around draining the pus from the foot and keeping the hole in the foot clean. Antibiotics are rarely necessary to treat a foot abscess. If your horse is not up-to-date with his/her tetanus vaccination you should let your vet know, as the abscess hole provides a perfect site for tetanus to enter. Your vet will advise you on the best treatment regime for your horse but it usually involves poulticing the foot to soften the horn and draw out the infection. See page 33 for further information on poulticing. • Specialist shoes or treatment plates may be necessary in certain conditions, such as when the abscess has penetrated the sole, but your vet or farrier will advise you if this is necessary. • If the lameness hasn’t improved within 2-3 days, or pus continues to drain from the hole for longer than this, you should contact your vet for further advice. PREVENTION Recent research has shown that unshod horses are at greater risk of developing a foot abscess than shod horses, possibly because shoes give a greater degree of protection to the toe region. The fore feet were also more commonly affected than the hind feet. If your horse is unshod and has suffered repeated foot abscesses, it may be worth speaking to your farrier about shoes.

EQUINE VACANCIES • An Equestrian Centre manager is required by Stowe school in Buckingham. Start December to cover for maternity leave.Application from the schools web site www.stowe.co.uk • Live-in groom for Isle of Wight stud. Apply in writing direct to Ballaseyr Stud, Andreas Road, Andreas, IOM IM7 4ERN • Vine and Craven Hunt require master/huntsman for 2015/16 season. Application form from The Chairman, c/o Crest Cottage, Kintbury, Hungerford, irks RG17 9UE • Rider required in Scotland. Must be able to jump to at least 1.30 level. 01259 743419/07739 573604 • Racing stable staff required in Surrey. Contact David Arbuthniot 01306 631529

Because horse insurance isn’t black & white Speak to the horse experts

Buying insurance for your horse is not the same as for your car and it is not always wise to chop and change companies. Pre-existing conditions come in to play and it is sometimes hard to find another insurer. You need to pick the right company first time and SEIB can help. With over 50 years equestrian insurance experience and a team who understand horse ownership you get the help and advice you need. In addition, we will be around if you need to claim and will carry on insuring your horse for its lifetime*.

Yes, you can visit our website www.seib.co.uk for details but it is still a good idea to give us a call to receive personal, tailored help and advice.

• Rider/Groom required for racing yard in Herefordshire. Apply Richard Lee 01544 267672 • Riding school/Livery Yard require junior instructor Oxon/ Warwickshire borders.Regale Equestrian 07866 426837 • Kennel Huntsman let Whipper-in wanted for South and West Wilts Hunt from May 2015. Apply James Andrews MFH jamesandrews@ btconnect.com • Australia - wanted Experienced horseperson and Stud Manager for property on the out coast of Australia.email horses@willingapark.com. au or telephone +61 2 6275 2289

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24/10/2014 11:59

Healthcare • Results Xxxxxxxxxx

Emma Douglas, dressage rider, celebrates a second place at the Nationals I

am pleased to report that having been offered the chance to compete at the recent Lemieux National Dressage Championships in September with my ride Apart (stable name Solly), we came second in the grade two class. It was a real achievement and I was so proud of Solly! I was also the highest placed British Dressage Supporters Club member at the competition, winning a lovely rug! The atmosphere at the event was wonderful and it is great to see so many of our leading dressage riders at their top of their game competing in a friendly environment. In Para events, there are five grades - the full list includes Ia, Ib, II, III or IV, with Ia being the most seriously impaired, and Grade IV the least. I ride at grade two, as a result of an ‘L1’ spinal injury resulting in incomplete paraplegia, but other common conditions of Para competitors include multiple sclerosis and cerebral palsy, as well as accident or amputation. The grading is all about the ‘functional ability’ of people in the same category, and is a fair way to compare riding success, I feel! I am an advocate of the RS-tor rider safety aid, which helps riders gain confidence in the saddle, boosts stability when riding, and helps prevent a rider being unseated. Visit www.rstor.co.uk. I use it all the time when training, as I believe it gives me the confidence to ride better, which helps me get the most from my training sessions, and in turn improve my competition scores! It is a great product for all riders who value their safety.

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oint health is critical to maintain performance in equines. During the winter months when stable time increases and the temperatures cool, joint stiffness can become more prevalent, so supporting supple, healthy joints is fundamental to the comfort and performance of all horses and ponies. Animalife, the creators of Vetrofen and Vetroflex, have formulated an advanced nutritional formulation to support joint health and performance. Vetroflex Original is ideal for all horses and ponies at varying stages of their careers, and contains no banned substances. When a more hard-hitting approach is

necessary, combining Vetroflex and Vetrofen can support comfort and mobility, as well as assisting the body’s natural ability to maintain healthy joints. Vetroflex is available in 500g, 1000g or 2000g tubs, prices start at £39.99. Call 0845 365 0050 to find your local Animalife Accredited Retailer or order online at www.animalife.co.uk (subject to delivery charges).

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Until you’ve fed him Calm & Condition®… ...you’ll never know how glossy his coat could be Calm & Condition® ➤ Barley and molasses free, low starch and low sugar* ➤ For horses and ponies at rest to hard work ➤ Ideal for horses and ponies that need to put on or maintain condition ➤ Quick soak in less than ten minutes

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AM I COVERED?

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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. “Do I need to take out Public Liability cover on my horse insurance policy if I already have this through another organisation?”

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t is common practice for many riders to offer lessons to their equestrian peers, either as part of their full-time occupation or on an occasional basis to earn some extra income. Insurance cover is available for freelance instructors to cover Public Liability during teaching and also Care, Custody & Control cover if required whilst carrying out other duties such as freelance riding/grooming. This can be tailored to cover the client on their own premises or off-site as well if required. Unqualified instructors can still be covered by insurance, but those with industry recognised qualifications (e.g. BHS or UKCC level education) and an up to date Health & Safety at Work First Aid Certificate will generally be entitled to discounted rates. “Do I need to take out Public Liability cover on my horse insurance policy if I already have this through another organisation?” Alongside vet’s fees, public liability is arguably one of the most commonly selected covers on horse insurance policies. Most horse owners and riders will recognise the importance of this protection, in part due to the unpredictable nature of horses – and the people or environment surrounding them. Many riders will enjoy hacking their horses regularly on public roads, but this activity also presents

a risk of damaging third party property. We’ve all seen the comical picture of two riders enjoying a pleasant hack with speech bubbles appearing to depict their mounts discussing whether to spook at the plastic bag or the imaginary squirrel – an illustration that is all too familiar to most of us! Thankfully we can normally disregard our horses’ antics with a grimace or a retort of “Feeling a bit fresh today!” but it is important to ensure you have also safeguarded yourself against potentially more serious incidents. If your horse chooses a very untimely moment to dance across the road and in doing so causes damage to a passing car you could find yourself liable for the costs associated with the losses incurred by the third party. In this particular example you may be looking at a few repair bills (which could be more expensive than expected) but there are various other scenarios which could result in severe losses being suffered: a more serious accident involving multiple individuals or causing bodily injury could see a claimant’s costs and expenses spiral rapidly. Ensuring you have the appropriate cover on your policy could indemnify you against liability at law for the associated damages. A number of equestrian organisations, clubs or societies provide public liability cover to its members as an additional benefit. The important factor to consider is whether this policy is discipline specific i.e. will it also cover you for participating in other activities. It is also essential to establish if there are any location restrictions – will you be covered at shows/events/ training sessions organised by another governing body, or whilst participating in your own personal activities, for example hacking or riding on the beach? If the contract will offer cover anytime anywhere then you may find this sufficient and can save the expense of purchasing additional cover, but it is vital you are aware of any policy limitations and do not assume you are automatically covered for all activities. As with all policies, there are certain exclusions that will apply; normally these would include the use of the horse for any business purposes or in connection with your trade or profession, use within a riding establishment and the serving or attempting to serve a mare by a stallion. As always, policy limitations will vary and it is vital to read the full wording to ensure you have the correct level of cover and limit of indemnity (the maximum amount payable for claims arising from one cause) required. www.equi-ads.com

24/10/2014 12:00

Healthcare

Dealing with a Hoof Abscess A

n abscess is a cavity containing pus, which is a collection of dead cells, bacteria, and other debris resulting from an infection. As the amount of pus increases in a foot abscess it becomes painful as the hoof continually bares weight and it is unable to swell. Foot abscesses are more common in wet weather because horses' feet are softer and it is easier for foreign objects or dirt to penetrate the foot. If a horse is standing in mud there are more opportunities for dirt to get under the shoe, or into the foot of an unshod horse. Hoof abscesses are commonly caused by dirt or gravel penetrating the white line (weakest area on the sole of the foot) or when a sharp object penetrates the hoof sole. Infection then rapidly develops, with a build-up of pus within the confines of the hoof, which is extremely painful for the horse. Abscess treatment needs to commence quickly to halt the abscess finding its own exit point - often the coronary band, but of course if it does this, then it has destroyed sensitive foot structures along the way. A vet or farrier will need to locate the abscess and drain the pus. Once the pus has been drained the foot must be cleaned, Animalintex® Hoof Treatment, secured with Equiwrap, is ideal for drawing out any remaining pus.

WARNING – Always speak to your vet as antibiotics and pain killers may be required. Also make sure your horse is vaccinated against Tetanus.

Animalintex® Hoof Treatment from Robinson Animal Healthcare is cut to shape for economy and convenience. Suitable for the rapid treatment of foot conditions it is the only veterinary licensed poultice on the market for equine treatment. It contains an antiseptic to clean and prevent re-infection and natural poulticing agent, Tragacanth, which, when it reacts with water, draws out any infection and creates a clean area for the wound to heal. Animalintex® and Animalintex® Hoof Treatment can be applied dry or as a hot or cold, wet poultice. Most horse owners will need to poultice a hoof at some point and unfortunately, due to the prolonged wet weather, foot problems have become more prevalent. Make sure you are stocked up and clued up on foot poulticing... How to Poultice a Hoof

To poultice a hoof, owners will need the following: • A hoof pick, hoof brush, hygienic sponge and bucket to clean the hoof prior to poulticing. • Saline solution or salt to add to previously boiled water • A licensed poultice to ensure a safe and effective treatment for the horse e.g. Animalintex® • Padding, e.g. VeterinaryGamgee® • A suitable self-adhering bandage to secure the poultice and keep it clean and protected e.g. Equiwrap® • A poultice boot – if the horse is going to be turned out. First of all the horse should be secured on a clean dry standing and the hoof cleaned to prepare it for poulticing. A saline solution or a level teaspoon of salt per pint of previously boiled water should be used as it is sterile and will prevent further infection. The person applying the poultice should wash their hands thoroughly before starting the process and wear medical gloves if necessary. To prepare a hot poultice, boil water and allow it to cool to 38 degrees centigrade (so that it does not burn the horse) immerse the poultice and squeeze out excess water. Note that if infected pus is present, the poultice needs to be damp (not wet) so that the pus is absorbed into the poultice. If a cold wet poultice is to be used, follow the same procedure as above but simply allow the boiled water to cool before application. Cut the poultice to the shape of the hoof or use a hoof poultice e.g. Animalintex® Hoof Treatment. Position the poultice inside the sole of the foot (shiny side facing outwards) and then place some hoof shaped padding over it e.g. Veterinary Gamgee cut to shape. Secure the poultice and padding with a suitable bandage, using a figure-of-eight pattern, crossing on the sole of the foot. The poultice should be changed at least every 12 hours. The progress of the ailment can be checked at the same time. If the horse does not respond to treatment or is showing signs of distress, call your vet. For more information on the Robinson Animal Health Care range please contact them on 01909 735000 or visit www.robinsonhealthcare.com.

Equi_Ads_Nov_National_rev.indd 33

24/10/2014 12:00

Xxxxxxxxxx Training

CLASSICAL RIDING - PART ELEVEN:

COLLECTION By Anne Wilson

he exercises we have covered so far in this series, are all designed, amongst other things, to build up the horse’s strength, suppleness and ability to take weight back onto the haunches. The strengthening of the back and hind leg joints, as well as muscles and tendons, are all important to this aim. This is the key to collection. Some of the lateral exercises previously described cannot actually be executed properly without a degree of collection; so one helps the other. Collection is often a very misunderstood term and is often badly achieved and incorrectly ridden.

The Push and Pull (Incorrect) Method

In the worst of one extreme there are those who believe that to collect the horse the rider should literally ‘pull it together’; sometimes incorrectly using the term ‘having the horse between leg and hand’, which in a classical sense does not mean pulling the horse together. People who adhere to this cruel principle seem to think that by pushing the horse on, sometimes with harsh leg aids, and holding with the reins, and sometimes even pulling with them; the horse will become collected. Nothing could be further from the truth. True collection can only come from behind the saddle; never in front of it. The Washing-Line Reins (Incorrect) Method

When we look at the other extreme; there are many people who believe that lightness is the key to collection. However, it is truer to say that lightness is a result of collection. The horse who is truly collected will become light in the hand, but by constantly giving

with the hand and allowing the horse a loose rein, he is never likely to be able to collect. A horse only becomes light in hand and able to work in ‘self carriage’ when he has been prepared correctly and taught how to take weight back onto his haunches. He is never likely to be able to do that if the rider does not give suitable support and guidance with the reins during training. There is the world of difference between pulling back with the reins and giving the support the horse needs. No-one can tell you how much weight you should feel in your hands; it is dependent upon the horse. A big, strong horse with a heavy neck and shoulder is going to feel heavier in the hand in the early stages of training than say an Iberian breed who is bred lighter in the forehand to begin with. Of course during the training process the rein should be given frequently to allow the horse to stretch and rest before being asked to work again. At the beginning of training the rider should be content with just a few seconds of collected work, before allowing the horse to take a break. Then gradually the time will lengthen when the horse is capable of working in collection, with his hind legs coming further underneath him, lifting his forehand and transferring weight onto his haunches. A good trainer should be mindful of the fact that this is strenuous for the horse and build up this work very gradually, allowing the horse to stretch and take a break as previously described. So people who allow the horse a loose rein all the time in the belief that they are being kind, are sadly misled. They are merely encouraging the horse to work with more weight on the forehand, and the horse is almost sure to suffer for this way of going sooner or later. We have to find the happy medium

ANNE WILSON, CLASSICAL RIDING TRAINER AND AUTHOR EVER WANTED CLASSICAL LESSONS ON A BEAUTIFUL, WELL TRAINED IBERIAN HORSE – but can’t afford it? – HERE’S YOUR CHANCE! I am looking for a keen person to help me care for and school a young (but not too young) Iberian horse. I am based in north Bedfordshire and already have two horses. I am hoping to acquire a third horse, being the proposed Iberian or Iberian cross, which will ideally be between the age of about five to nine years old. He or she will be kindly backed and well handled, ready to school on, hopefully to haute école. I need a helper to help with the stable work, say four or five mornings a week, possibly including weekends. This may suit someone who has a couple of hours free on week day mornings, perhaps a mother with school age children. In exchange for help with the three horses you will be able to ride and have regular lessons. You don’t need to be a superb rider, just keen to learn classical techniques and to ride in harmony with the horse. I am a classical trainer; trained with Sylvia Loch, and an equestrian author – see my website: classicalridingannewilson.com PHONE – ANNE 01234 772401 34 | November 2014

Equi_Ads_Nov_National_rev.indd 34

PHOTO 1 - Here the rider is giving the inside rein to demonstrate self carriage in collection - Elaine Herbert with Prazer, owned by Sylvia Loch - photo Black Tent Photography - www.blacktent.co.uk

and give the horse the framework in which he can best work at that particular stage of training. In true collection the head and neck should arch upwards out of the wither, with the nose just in front of the vertical. It would be futile to expect a green horse to be able to do this, as his muscles would not be sufficiently developed. However, what we can do is to show him a way of going which does not leave him leaning so much onto the forehand. Being on the Forehand is Natural but not Desirable Moving in an ‘on the forehand’ outline is quite natural for horses when at liberty and may not be so damaging out in the field, but even the ‘au natural’ horse would benefit from being able to lighten his forehand to relieve the weight from his front legs. Once we add the weight of a rider and the added demands that the different disciplines put upon him, the horse who is never physically conditioned, prepared and taught to collect is most likely to suffer physical breakdown at an early age. Therefore, whilst it is ‘natural’ for a horse to move ‘on the forehand’, it is not necessarily desirable from the horse’s point of view; apart from other considerations such as how much easier and more pleasant it is to ride a horse who is correctly trained and lighter in hand. Here’s what Arthur Kottas, former Chief Rider at the Spanish Riding School of Vienna says about collected trot, in his latest book ‘Dressage Solutions – A Rider’s Guide’:“Collection requires the horse to be able to bend the joints of the hindquarters more markedly than in working trot, so that he is able to transfer weight from his forehand, and carry around 50

per cent or more on his haunches. This demands strength, suppleness and balance. It is not expected of a young horse, yet to develop physically and mentally under the added weight of a rider. In collected trot the haunches will sink lower due to the greater flexing of the hind leg joints. Correspondingly, the forehand will seem to rise, creating an ‘uphill’ appearance which in turn leads to a lighter, more manoeuvrable horse, because he carries less weight on his forelegs.” He goes on to say:“A rider who tries to collect only by shortening the neck will not experience this lighter forehand. It is a false collection.” What Arthur Kottas means is clearly shown in Photo 2 of The Pas de Deux performed by the Spanish Riding School. Here we see the two stallions performing Piaffe (the ultimate collected movement at trot) during the Pas de Deux. The raising of the forehand, lowering of the haunches and flexing of the hind limbs can be easily seen. How to Build up Collection

To build up collection in trot, it is a good idea to ride a few strides of trot Shoulder-in, then ride straight. The rider should have think of lifting himself up from the waist, with a feeling of arching through the chest, with a very slight bracing of the lower back. The rider should then give impulsion leg aids with the inner calf muscles; quick, light taps are normally most effective. The rider indicates to the horse that speed is not what is being requested, by closing the knees and inner thigh muscles – a feeling of ‘holding’ the horse with the body. The feeling on the reins should be (continued on page 40) www.equi-ads.com

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24/10/2014 12:01

Saddlery Xxxxxxxxxx • Healthcare

JUMPING INTO THE SADDLE Question:

I’m looking at buying a jumping saddle for my horse, can you offer advice on what to look for? Answer:

The Society of Master Saddlers replies: Both show jumping and crosscountry requires the rider to be athletic and in balance with their horse at all times. Making sure you have the right saddle that fits the horse and is comfortable for the rider is key to success whether competing at a local or international level. The modern jumping saddle has been designed to provide a close contact fit to help the rider sit close to the horse and with their weight balanced. As ever, designs vary in style and colour and there are some saddles that are made using a single or mono flap system that allows the rider to have a closer feel around the horse. It is important for a rider to feel their horse working underneath the saddle in order to get the best out of them. This level of communication is greatly enhanced by a single flap jumping saddle. Jumping saddles are designed with

knee and thigh blocks to help support the rider’s leg position, and the forward cut flap helps assist balance in the saddle. When deciding on which saddle to buy make sure it is one that is designed to allow maximum performance from the rider as well as the horse. As with all saddles we recommend that you use a registered qualified saddle fitter, so that you are guaranteed that they are fully qualified, professional and have over three years’ experience to get the best possible fit. Don’t forget to try out the saddle over a few fences as that is what you will be wanting it for! Always pay great attention to the saddle’s flocking, it needs to provide cushioning to help reduce trauma to the back when jumping. A saddle that is over-stuffed will be too hard causing soreness on the horse’s back. The forces involved with a big horse taking off, stretching over a fence and landing on the other side are tremendous, so the saddle must sit well and minimise the effect of jarring to the horse’s back. If comfort, style and longevity are what you are looking for a saddle made from top quality leather is just what you need. Remember cheaper

leather can have a tendency to be slippery and not provide a secure seat with good grip. Choosing to buy a bespoke saddle will help ensure it is fitted by trained experts who understand your horse’s needs. Compromise should not be an option when deciding on your new show jumping saddle. Ideally the saddle should maximise your partnership with the horse and balance comfort with style and performance. To find out more information

on The Society of Master Saddlers and to find your nearest member visit www.mastersaddlers.co.uk or contact on 01449 711642.

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to the Solare Jump Saddle - ideal for those riders looking for a quality saddle and the latest innovations. Made with vintage leather, the Solare offers excellent value for money with the saddle combining cutting edge design and technology providing riders of all levels and ability with a close contact saddle and a forward-fitting seat that allows freedom of movement. Custom-made as always, this saddle has a discreet knee roll providing support without blocking the leg position whilst the forward cut flaps help the rider’s balance and security. The pure wool flocking in this versatile saddle helps to offer the perfect fit and allows greater adjustment options. Available in Black, Brown, Havanna or Oxblood and in sizes 16 inch to 19 inch, in a range of width fittings. For more information contact Black Country Saddles on 01543 578 243 or visitwww.blackcountrysaddles.com

FEELING GOOD FROM THE INSIDE OUT T

• • •

36 | November 2014

Equi_Ads_Nov_National_rev.indd 36

he health of the equine digestive system greatly impacts the overall health, wellbeing and performance of a horse and the slightest disruption can throw this delicate system out of balance. For a large animal, the horse’s digestive system is incredibly sensitive and can be disrupted by many contributing factors. As horse owners, we should all know the basic rules of feeding, which when adhered to can go a long way to preventing digestive upsets. Understanding how the digestive system works gives us a greater insight into how it can so easily become out of balance. As the horse chews it produces saliva to help breakdown the feed and begin the process of releasing nutrients, then the food enters the stomach and the small intestine. The horse’s stomach acts as an early acid bath for any undesirable

pathogenic bacteria that may have been consumed with the feed. There is limited fermentation of very simple carbohydrates (e.g. sugars) in the top half of the stomach and then a small amount of protein breakdown in the acidic bottom half. As horses have evolved largely to ferment fibre in the hind gut, the stomach is relatively small and most of the true digestion of nutrients occurs in the small intestine. Horses can digest very little starch at any one time and the small intestine struggles to deal with concentrate rations containing more than 3-4g (possibly less) of starch per kilogram of body weight per meal – commonly known as starch overload. Any starch that escapes digestion in the small intestine will overflow into the hindgut (particularly the caecum), which can affect the microbial

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Xxxxxxxxxx Saddlery

Master Saddlers go from Strength to Strength A

n increase in membership, a host of new initiatives, a busy 12 months for the President and a fascinating tour of The King’s Troop RHA in Woolwich, London were on the agenda at this year’s Society of Master Saddlers’ annual general meeting. The day started with AGM matters including a report from President Helen Dart who described her ‘amazing’ year as full of variety with a trip to Scotland for the Saddlery Refresher Course and the brilliant entries at the National Competition being particular highlights. With the aim of reaching new highs when it comes to awareness of the work carried out by the SMS, a busy calendar of events has been organised to benefit both members and horse owners over the last year. Chief Executive Hazel Morley said: “The new Centaur Biomechanics course has proven very popular as have initiatives such as the CPD scheme. “The bridle fitting course was once again full and our links with the Association of Chartered Physiotherapists in Animal Therapy (ACPAT) have developed further with a jointly run course now established. “This year we have progressed a new system to improve communication with members by issuing regular E-newsletters which are proving popular and well-read. “After many months of hard work the Society of Master Saddlers film is now nearing completion and we are very much looking forward to the launch. “Over the last 12 months 21 new Qualified Saddle Fitters have successfully passed the examination process and are now on the road successfully developing their new careers.” With AGM work in hand, members were very fortunate to watch a display by The King’s Troop who had performed at the Opening Ceremony of the Invictus Games the night before. Watching the two teams of horses working together in the indoor arena followed by the opportunity to get ‘close-up’ to the horses was met with great approval from everyone attending. A tour of the facilities rounded off the day, with everyone very impressed with the set-up, attention to detail and wonderful support provided. To find out more information on The Society of Master Saddlers visit www.mastersaddlers.co.uk

balance. The hind gut is made up of the caecum, large intestine and colon, the caecum is basically a fermentation vat where the bulk of digestion takes place thanks to fibre-digesting bacteria. Unlike the acidic conditions of the stomach, the optimum hind gut environment is a near-neutral pH. Normal hind gut function can become disrupted by less than adequate fibre in the diet, or starch overload leading to more acidic conditions, often referred to as acidosis. While we can do everything possible to minimise digestive upsets, some things are simply out of our control, such as the stress caused by travel and the strenuous training regime of competition horses, or the reduced ability of an elderly horse to chew adequately. By supplementing the diet with yeast cultures you can help reduce hind gut acidity, creating optimum conditions for the beneficial bacteria to flourish, thereby improving digestion, as well as nutrient absorption and buffering against digestive upset. The Lifeforce Range from Alltech has been designed to optimise the digestive health of horses at every stage of life, from breeding stock to leisure and performance horses. For further information please visit www.lifeforcehorse.co.uk or telephone 01780 764512 www.equi-ads.com

Equi_Ads_Nov_National_rev.indd 37

Society of Master Saddlers appoint new President

eter Wilkes has been appointed as the new President of the Society of Master Saddlers. Well known throughout the industry after many years as head of Vale Brothers, Peter has a wealth of knowledge to bring to his new role. Passionate about excellence in saddlery craftsmanship, saddle fitting and the development and progress of the industry as a whole, Peter’s forward thinking approach should see an exciting 12 months for the society. Image above: Incoming President Peter Wilkes being congratulated by outgoing President Helen Dart (right) and new Vice President Laura Dempsey. November 2014 | 37

24/10/2014 12:02

Xxxxxxxxxx News • Feeding

NEW CONDITION COOLER MASH N ew Equerry Condition Cooler Mash is a quick-soaking mash for horses that need to gain weight and condition. It is a ‘NonHeating’ formula with low levels of starch and has a good level of protein for muscle development and topline. Highly-digestible fibre sources include sugar beet; while oil and linseed promote condition and a shiny coat. A high level of yeast promotes a healthy digestive system, with added vitamins and minerals including magnesium. Each product in the Equerry range benefits from generations of knowledge as it is manufactured by HJ Lea Oakes, one of the longest established independent animal feed manufacturers in Britain, dating back to 1675 where the Lea family began milling feeds to supply to the Cheshire farming

community. Equerry horse feeds are formulated by experienced nutritionists, using only the best quality ingredients and are produced under the BETA NOPS scheme giving horse owners peace of mind. Equerry horse feeds combine highly digestible fibre sources to support a healthy digestive system with cooked cereals where appropriate to provide a highly digestible source of energy. All the feeds are balanced with vitamins and minerals to support health and wellbeing and include quality protein sources for muscle development. The range includes seven cubes, six coarse mixes, one mash and one treat in the form of Equerry Minty Horse Treats. Equerry Condition Cooler Mash - 20kg - £11.95. Telephone the Equerry Helpline on 01845 565640 or visit www.equerryhorsefeeds.com

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.

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Xxxxxxxxxx

Healthcare • Training

The licensed veterinary poultice

PHOTO 2 - The piaffe performed during the Pas de Deux - photo courtesy of The Spanish Riding School of Vienna - notice the raised forehand, lowering of the haunches and flexion of the hind leg joints in this extremely collected movement.

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(continued from page 34) one of containment, not of pulling back. If the horse begins to move faster, then a very brief check on the rein is advisable, followed by a more constant, contained feeling. To begin with this collection should only be ridden for a few strides, when the rider should release the horse with the knees and thighs and slightly open the fingers on the reins, allowing the horse to move more forward. This can be practiced by intertwining lateral exercises with upward and downward transitions. Say halt to working trot, then collect a few strides, back to working trot, back to walk and stretch and relax. In this way the horse will become more and more physically able to collect and more than likely very willing to enjoy the experience again. Gradually the feeling of lightness on the rein will naturally be felt. When the horse is fairly confident in his collection, the rider

can give with the rein for a couple of strides, whilst retaining the other collection aids of torso and legs. If the horse remains in the same frame then this is proof of his self carriage in collection (see Photo 1); but he may not be able to remain in this self carriage for too long in the beginning; everything takes time to build up, but what a wonderful journey it all is! 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

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Xxxxxxxxxx Events

SOUTH DERBYSHIRE SADDLE CLUB - END OF SEASON FUN O

ur last show of our Diamond Jubilee season kindly hosted again by Charles Hirons of Draycott House. It was lovely to see some new faces as well as our regular members having fun and competing for the all-important points that contribute towards end of season perpetual awards. Our Presentation evening is being held on Saturday 22nd November at the Royal Oak, Ockbrook. Tickets are ÂŁ10 including a hot supper. Please see our website www.southderbyshiresaddleclub.co.uk for further details, tickets in advance only. We would like to thank Charles for helping us to complete our Diamond Jubilee season, next year we will be returning to our regular showground off Far Lane, Ockbrook and will be looking for possible sponsors, please contact us at southderbyshiresaddleclub@gmail.com. Photo credit: Steve Ingers

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Equi_Ads_Nov_EW_rev.indd 41

November 2014 | 41

24/10/2014 11:55

Results • Healthcare

Cassie takes the brakes off! Emma Sumbler reports

ompetitors from eight counties took part in the Hall Place Cross Country at the end of the summer season in Tilehurst, Reading. Riders travelled to qualify for the Horseware National Hunter Trials. The finals will be at Eland Lodge, Derbyshire. Kate Turner, Hall Place Head Coach, was delighted that competitors travelled from far and wide to compete on the new improved course.

20 year old Hannah Maciw riding Tallie was the winner of the Novice Rider class. Elsie Bush ridden by Catharine Jeffrey from Reading had a successful day winning both the Novice and the Open Pairs with Ellexa ridden by Annie Bishop from Calcot. The Intermediate Open was won by Rhino ridden by Cassie Hall. Rhino is owned by Pete and Suellen Brake. The Brakes

travelled with Cassie from Sherbourne, in Dorset with their 4 horses for the weekend. Pete riding Jinks took 4th place and also 6th place in the pairs riding Milwaukee with Cassie riding Flynn. 2nd place in the Open went to Kirsty Scorah, from Wickford, Essex, riding Westfords Too Glam Glam and Sarah Elcock was 3rd with Bright Spartk Owen. Riders placed 1st to 3rd in all the classes qualified for National Hunter Trials Finals. Hall Place will be hosting further cross country and eventers challenge in 2015. Fixtures www.hall-place.com

Cassie Hall with Rhino

Hannah Maciw with Tallie

Annie Bishop with Ellexa

Images by Royle Photography Equestrian Events www.rpeevents.co.uk. For high resolution images for print contact Kevin at info@rpeevents.co.uk (continued from page 8)

We want to hear about your: 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.

Please contact stephanie@equiads.net Tel: 01159 461146 42 | November 2014

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the most ‘warming energy’. It is also vital that they have a balanced diet all year round, but especially so during the winter months when weight and condition is often lost due to the drop in temperatures. HPD offer a wide range of feed balancers to suit all types of horses and ponies to ensure they have a strong, healthy immune system. All the balancers in the range are whole-cereal and molasses free, making them very low in sugar and starch. HPD balancers are nutrient dense so only need to be fed in small amounts and will provide your horse or pony with all the vitamins, minerals and nutrients needed on a daily basis. Included in the range are; Everyday balancer, Low Calorie balancer, Performance balancer and Veteran balancer. Stress

Many horses and ponies live out all through summer and have a complete change of routine in winter, often seeing them stabled for long periods. This can lead to stressful behaviour and ‘vices’ or stereotypes forming such as weaving, crib biting and box walking. The best way to combat this is to keep your horse or pony calm and stress free by feeding a high quality calming supplement such as HPD’s Calming Supplement, which

includes Magnesium, L-Tryptophan and peppermint to help combat stress and keep your horse or pony calm and settled. Joint Stiffness

Standing in stables for long periods, especially in cold conditions, can have a detrimental effect on joints, especially in older horses. Try to allow your horse or pony to move around, either in the field during the day in a sand paddock or ménage to keep joints mobile. Older horses and ponies will also benefit from having their legs bandaged in very cold weather to prevent joints becoming cold. Feeding a joint supplement will nourish and support your horse or pony’s joints and help alleviate any problems associated with standing for long periods. HPD’s Joint supplement can be fed alongside any diet and includes Glucosamine and MSM to support healthy, ﬂexible joints. For more information on how you can buy these high quality products direct for less visit www. horseandponydirect.com or call our order line on 0844 2472144.

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24/10/2014 11:55

Results • Healthcare Xxxxxxxxxx • Competition

Prevention is Better Than Cure

he long winter months will soon be upon us. Yet even as the seasons change, one constant remains for horse owners: caring for their animals to ensure optimal health. A top priority for horse owners, who are thinking ahead, is preventing winter ailments by helping their horse build a strong and healthy digestive and immune system. Protexin Equine Premium are the experts in probiotics, and their range of supplements which include Gut Balancer and Quick Fix, provide a ready supply of good quality probiotics.

Gut Balancer:

Gut Balancer is an everyday probiotic powder to add to your horse’s feed which maintains the ‘good’ bacteria in the horse’s gut for sustained health. Not only can a daily dose of probiotics optimise the horse’s feed digestion, but a regular supply of probiotics also bolsters and supports the immune system. Colic is also more common over winter and can be caused by a number of factors. Regularly giving the horse a probiotic supplement like Protexin Gut Balancer in autumn and winter, will promote gut health to help prevent colic. Quick Fix:

Quick Fix is a highly concentrated short course of probiotics in a handy to use syringe. Horses can experience stress from seasonal changes in diet and environment, since they spend greater amounts of time stabled. Quick Fix can help calm the animal and prepare the digestive system for seasonal change by boosting levels of healthy bacteria. Quick Fix is also excellent when used during worming; whilst ensuring your horse is parasite free, a wormer can also disrupt the gut microﬂora, which creates an opportunity for pathogens to enter and cause a number of digestive problems, including colic. Quick Fix replenishes ‘good’ bacteria levels in the horse’s gut during and after worming treatments. Protexin Equine Premium’s range of high quality supplements are formulated to best suit the digestive challenges facing horse owners and their animals this winter. Horse owners will be happy to know there’s no danger of a horse ‘overdosing’ on any of the supplements in the Equine Premium range; plus all five products carry the FEMAS BETA NOPS logo, which means as a company, Protexin Equine Premium ensure that all the products are of the highest standard available for competition use, reducing your risk of disqualification. Visit www.equinepremium. com for more information.

(continued from page 6) the Forage Analysis, as well as advice on how to create a balanced diet and mineral supplementation (if required). Some owners have found that just small amounts of minerals are required to be fed to their horse to completely balance the diet, and surprising benefits to health are often the result – showing improvements in hoof quality, less nervy, less itchy, more able to concentrate, improved coat quality to name just a few! But perhaps the picture is more complex and depending on the horse’s individual needs (health issues, barefoot, age etc), then a fresh approach may be required in conjunction with the nutritional experts. They can advise on DE intake, protein levels and ensure minerals are balanced in the correct ratios to each other to optimise the horse’s health, based on the results of the analysis. For example if a sample of hay contained particularly high levels of iron or manganese these can restrict the horses’ nutritional uptake of minerals such as zinc and copper. Zinc is essential for healing processes, blood clotting, insulin production, energy metabolism, nerve function, strong hooves and a healthy coat. Copper is essential for the repair, maintenance and development of hooves, joints, bones and connective tissue. Hence, by balancing and supplementing the zinc and copper in the correct ratios to the iron and manganese, the horse can then receive the optimum amount of these minerals and often an improvement in hoof health, coat and general health is the result! www.thehealthyhorsecompany.com www.equi-ads.com

Equi_Ads_Nov_EW_rev.indd 43

Five Pairs of GRUBS Rideline Boots to Give away! The Rideline boots from GRUBS are along boot ideal for riding and stable work, keeping your feet dry and warm in all weathers. These boots combine the unique Insu-Foam Ultra technology with advanced 5.0 thermal engineering for a comfortable warm and dry fit. The Rideline features the brand new equine design with a tapered toe, tall shaft and smooth hair grain rubber finish for an elegant look. They also feature 4mm rubber over the foot that is cut low to just cover the ankle to provide protection while allowing ankle rotation for a comfortable riding position. The new Outline equine sole provide safety and grip designed for the riding environment in and out of the stirrups and the cupped arch supports the heel whilst the positive heel stops the foot falling through the stirrup. They also incorporate the Hexzorb shock absorbing technology to help minimise shockwaves when dismounting and walking and are lined with moisture wicking terry knit, which keeps you dry and has a super stretch to fit most calves. The boots also feature a removable 6mm Nitrocell footbed that adds further insulation and cushioning due to its microscopic closed cell nitrogen bubble structure, giving you superior thermal protection from cold surfaces. The Rideline boots are available in black and in UK sizes 4-8. They retail from around £86.00.

For more information contact GRUBS on 01279 418052 or visit www.work-lite.com

To Enter simply answer the following question: What type of sole do the Rideline boots have? To have the chance of winning, please email your answer to the above question to kirsty@equiads.net or post it with your name, address and telephone number to Blue Chip Competition, Equi-Ads Ltd.,126 Derby Road, Long Eaton, Notts. NG10 4LS. Final entries must be received by 31st November. November 2014 | 43

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Xxxxxxxxxx Healthcare

Common Lower Limb Swelling By Peter Fenton BVM&, MRCVS A

common issue that many a horse will develop at some stage in their lifetime is lower limb swelling. There are a number of different possible causes with varying degrees of severity. Sometimes there is no medical cause for the swelling and there is less cause for concern. However there are a number of important structures within the lower limb of the horse, which when damaged can contribute to swelling. A thorough physical exam is therefore important to determine the significance of swelling and the need for any treatment. Horse can develop swellings of the lower limb due to inactivity, such as standing in the stable overnight. This is otherwise known as sporadic lymphangitis and is the less sinister form of the disease. These cases are often not painful so are not normally associated with any lameness. The swelling tends to be diffusely spread out and can affect different legs to varying degrees. The circulation back from the lower limb will increase with movement so the degree of swelling will often decrease with riding. This is one way in which it can be differentiated from ulcerative lymphangitis, as this will

not decrease with exercise. Sporadic cases are normally of no medical significance so do not require any further treatment. It is important to tell the difference between the different forms of lymphangitis as some require a much more intensive form of treatment than others. Ulcerative lymphangitis normally will affect one limb and the associated swelling can be severe. Clinical signs can include poor appetite, high temperature, sweating and even sometimes some mild colic symptoms. Discharge can often be seen coming from the affected limb. It is caused by infection with bacteria usually through an existing wound or in a limb affected by mud rash and the swelling is caused by a combination of inflammation and blocked drainage of the left by small clots wedged in the vessels that would normally carry the fluid away. Treatment should be rapid and aggressive as these cases are difficult and challenging to treat successfully and unfortunately often results in a permanently swollen leg. A combination of antibiotics, anti-inflammatories, steroids and sometimes diuretics are used to

EM 24 E H SE RG OU RV EN R IC CY E

Peter Fenton Equine Veterinary Practice Ltd 100% Equine Practice

Using modern, mobile diagnostic equipment including digital x-ray, ultrasound, video endoscope/ gastroscope and advanced dentistry equipment to manage equine health throughout Greater Manchester.

639-641 Manchester Old Road, Middleton, Mcr, M24 4PN

Telephone: 0161 643 7724 www.peterfentonequinevets.co.uk

44 | November 2014

Equi_Ads_Nov_EW_rev.indd 44

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treat this disease. From an owner’s point of view this disease is very time consuming as cold hosing and exercise, when the horse is comfortable enough, are also important management aspects. It should always be noted that the horse may be predisposed to this occurring again in the future. Trauma such as kick injuries can also lead to inflammation and swelling of the lower limb. These are commonly associated with wounds on the skin surface and can be painful to touch. The swelling can be quite substantial and diffuse even if only associated with a small wound; therefore the degree of lameness can be a more reliable means of determining the severity. There can sometimes be heat and discharge associated with these injuries. It is also important to remember that damage to structures beneath the skin surface can have also occurred at the same time as a wound, which can often be more significant that the visible swelling. Depending on the location of the wound the healing process can be quite slow, so it is important to manage these cases correctly to optimise recovery from these injuries Swelling can also be limited to specific structures rather than diffusely spread along the limb. Penetrating injuries can sometimes extend into joints, tendon sheaths or bursae and this can lead to more severe consequences. Clinical signs include lameness and swelling of the associated synovial structure. These require fairly intense treatment such as surgery as systemic antibiotics have very little affect on synovial sepsis. Without treatment the consequences of these injuries can by life threatening so it is important to have any suspicious looking injuries checked by your veterinarian.

Overloading the structures of the limb can also lead to damage, which in turn will cause inflammation. The swelling can either by diffusely spread along the limb or more confined to the injured area. This can also be associated with lameness to different extents. Structures such as tendons are prone to overloading injuries due to the high forces that they are subjected to in work. There are many different structures within the limb that can be injured so it is important to localise the problem to make a diagnosis. Swelling is not always very specific so nerve blocks are an important diagnostic tool. This is a technique that involves injecting small amounts of local anaesthetic into the limb in an attempt to diminish lameness. Once isolating the area responsible for the lameness further imaging techniques such as ultrasound and radiography can be used to investigate the problem area. Some horses can be predisposed to certain injuries either due to their conformation or breeding. Certain types of work can also be more likely to lead to problems due to the high strain placed upon the soft tissue structures. This is why a thorough veterinary history is important and will aid in making a correct diagnosis. Some skin diseases can also lead to swelling of the legs due to the inflammation that is associated with them. Some metabolic diseases can also lead to swelling of the limbs due to impaired lymphatic drainage, although this is much less common the external trauma or overloading injuries. Overall lower limb swelling is not always a cause for concern as it can be caused by a number of different processes, some of which don’t even call for any medical treatment. However there are some more serious diseases associated with limb swelling so it is important to differentiate between these different types so that the appropriate treatment can be started.

Keep them amused! S

table toys from Equestrian.com are one way of helping horses and ponies to beat the boredom and come in various shapes, sizes and ideas. Without doubt throughout the autumn and winter months many horses and ponies will be confined to their stable for longer periods of time whether due to muddy fields and wet weather, injuries or simply lack of grazing. The Likit Snak-a-Ball allows owners to enhance every feed time with its unique feeding system. Designed to be filled with dry

horse food, the ball delivers small amounts of food when pushed around by the horse. Extends feeding times and encourages natural foraging behaviour. Ideal for overweight horses and ponies on limited rations and for those who bolt their food. The Cottage Craft Horseball can be used in stable or field and is for helping to prevent boredom and keep your horse or pony amused. It is available in small 7inch medium 10inch. For further information visit www.equestrian.com www.equi-ads.com

24/10/2014 11:57

Retail Xxxxxxxxxx Focus • Treats

RETAIL FOCUS

Each issue, we showcase one of the UK’s most popular retail stores, celebrating the ‘bricks and mortar’ retailers stocking equestrian goods. This month, we talk to the family team at agricultural supplier, R&S Ward.

elanie Nash is co-proprietor at R&S Ward, a feed and bedding supplier close to the Ebbw Valley in South Wales. Based within easy reach of Oakdale, Trinant, Treowen and Crumlin in Caerphilly county, the eponymously-named retail outlet is based at the Lower Ton-y-Felin Farm, the family home of Roger and Sue Ward, Melanie’s parents. “We are based on an extensive working farm and are tenant farmers. This area of the South Wales Valleys has been quite industrial area, with relatively few competition horses, and I would say that in general our customer base is mainly happy hackers,” Melanie states. “Traditionally, this has been a Welsh cob area, although there is more equine variety nowadays. We do find that although historically this hasn’t been the most aﬄuent area, there are quality horse owners here who really

enjoy their horses, and want what’s best for them,” she explains. The store is a leading retailer for Castle Horse Feeds products, who manufacture their range of products from a UFAS accredited mill in Hay-on-Wye, in Herefordshire. “At R&S Ward, we stock a range of Castle Feeds’ bagged feeds, such as cubes and mixes, as well as straights such as micronised oats, barley and maize. These are products made from the highest quality ingredients and the whole range of foods has a Non GM stamp of approval, which our customers appreciate,” Melanie adds. “We can also order in products from other manufacturer’s ranges, if clients require this.” Melanie explains that the store doesn’t tend to keep large amounts of feedstuffs with a short shelf life in stock, but that they can order in items for short-term delivery for customers, with the delivery date depending on their location, to ensure

Treats and Licks Health Licks Treats don’t have to be bad for health, and Rockies’ Health Licks prove it! Each 2kg lick combines a delicious ﬂavour with salt and vital minerals to help support health and replace missing goodness. The hard-pressed licks are molasses free, so they can be offered in a free access manner, with the horse helping himself as and when needed. Health Licks are more than just a treat for the horse; they’re good for the owner too. As the manufacturing process ensures that licks won’t crumble or melt like inferior products, they deliver excellent value for money. Health Licks are available in carrot, cherry, mint, apple and garlic ﬂavours and have a RRP of £3.08.

5 Star Rockies’ 5 Star is a 5kg lick that combines carefully selected ingredients that help to support health with apple and fenugreek, so your horse will view his 5 Star as a delicious treat. The hard pressed 5kg lick contains Bioplex www.equi-ads.com

Equi_Ads_Nov_EW_rev.indd 45

fresh, good quality products. R&S Ward also stocks a range of animal bedding, as well as agricultural supplies including poultry, sheep and goat products, dog and cat supplies, fishing baits and bird feed. “We do cater to a wide range of customers, including many smallholders with small animals. In the past 30 years that we have been servicing customers, we have built up a vast knowledge of animals and their requirements through our family’s farming background and equine activities,” says Melanie, who has taken part in Point To Pointing, Hunting and Team Chasing herself, and currently owns a retired Point to Point Mare and a section D Cob that when time allows, is a riding horse. R&S Ward stocks Equi-Ads magazine is always a popular title, with most copies of the title being

picked up each month. “We keep a stack on the counter, and most customers pick a copy up with their animal feed or bedding purchases,” Melanie says. “It’s got a good mix of informative articles, information and equestrian news, and is such good value as a free title.” “Stock it if you have space”? To conclude, Melanie tells us that the store is a well-established family firm, and being centrally located in the region, is ideally positioned to serve the local area. “Our extensive store, based in attractive farm buildings, offers generous parking and easy access to all customers,” she adds. “Above all, we aim to provide a ‘one stop shop’ to meet all our customers’ animal feed and bedding requirements.” Visit www.rsward-gwent.co.uk

Brand New Equine America Liver Flush™

unique combination of natural ingredients which support the vital functions performed by a healthy liver. Liver Flush™ Solution will help to protect the liver cells and the processes relative to digestion, metabolism, the storage of important nutrients, tissue regeneration and the reduction of toxins from the horses body. £19.99 500ml. Find out about the full range: www.equine-america.co.uk 01403 255809

protected zinc, cod liver oil, iron, seaweed and herbs to help support health and condition. It can be offered in a free access manner to horses out at grass or in the stable and, thanks to the inbuilt hardness created during manufacture, it’s durable too. You could say it’s a treat for your pocket as well as your horse! 5 Star has a RRP of £7.19. Field & Stable Block The Field & Stable Block contains vitamins, trace elements and minerals in one easy to feed lick that can be offered in a free access manner. The lick provides horse owners with an incredibly cost effective way to top up on essential micro nutrients, whether the horse is partly stabled or lives out all the time. It’s 10kg in size and although it has a light molasses coating to ensure palatability, the inbuilt harness created during manufacture limits intake, so it’s not the same as highly molassed products. The Field & Stable Block has a RRP of £15.04. For more information, see www.rockies.co.uk, email info@rockies.co.uk or call 01606 595025.

Horsewear Wash-Bag

he Horsewear Wash-Bag is ideal for washing dirty turnout socks and towels, making it really useful this winter. The Horsewear Wash-Bag makes it easy to wash dirty horse clothing in a domestic washing machine, without fear of hair or grit clogging up the filter. It’s simple to use, just put the dirty items inside the bag, fasten the zip, and put in the washing machine. The bag acts like a filtration system, allowing water and detergent through to wash the contents within the bag, but preventing anything that shouldn’t leaving the bag. The Horsewear Wash-Bag can also be used as a laundry bag, making it easy to transport horse clothing to and from the stables. Available in black, white and orange, in three sizes. Prices start from £8.95. For more information, see www. moorlandrider.co.uk, email info@ moorlandrider.co.uk or call 01782 397796

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Christmas Gifts Ideas Xxxxxxxxxx

Christmas Gift Idea!

iders need to try and stay healthy despite the Christmas stresses, so why not give them a gift that will help their bodies feel good and get next season off to a good start? Ruggles & Stopitall Ltd have put together two clever packs where each supplement does multiple jobs for no extra cost – like having eight ‘personal assistants’ for the cost of four! And, all their products work “with the body” by using the power of Mother Nature to gently ‘take care of us’. 1. ‘Peak Performance Pack’ (£85.92): • Omega 3-rich Maxavita Revitaflex capsules for optimum joint and immune health, • Protexin Bio-Kult ‘pure’ 14 strain probiotic capsules for happy guts and immune systems, • organic Green Barley Grass for extra vitality via its ‘metabolic paddle wheel’ capabilities, • intensive Vitamin D3 capsules for mood, joint, muscle and immunity, plus • R&S Ginger, Juniper & Arnica Joint and Muscle Cream for stiff or aching bodies. 2. ‘Pain Pack’ (£26.99) has the Omega 3-rich Revitaflex capsules and the Ginger, Juniper & Arnica Cream. Special discounts, testimonials and information are all at www.karenruggles.co.uk or call 01823 259952.

Give the gift of safety this Xmas - the perfect festive gift

he RS-tor was designed as a safety aid to help prevent falls, or allow the rider to fall in a more controlled manner. The strap has a ‘bungee’ element that helps prevents rider falls by ‘absorbing’ the velocity of being unseated. It fits easily to the stirrup bars. The RS-tor’s fall prevention aspect comes into effect when the horse spooks, bucks, rears, cat-leaps or stumbles, although its confidenceboosting benefits are always experienced. Priced £44.99 – available in Childs, S and M/L sizes. Typically, adult riders between 5ft 4” and 6ft select size M/L Visit: www.rstor.co.uk. Call Polypads for stockists 01842 752020.

NEW TOY STARTER KIT

A gift for the person who has everything... a festive castle escape

ikit has launched a Starter Kit designed for those thinking of trying these innovative stable toys for the first time. The new product contains a Likit Holder plus Apple, Carrot and Cherry flavoured Likits and two 100g packs of Likit Snaks. Supplied in an attractive box, the Likit Starter Kit also makes a great gift idea for horse or pony owners. In addition, the company has added Grass, Caramel and Blueberry flavoured Likits to its range for a limited period. Likit Starter Kit retail price: £19.99 All three flavours come in both the 650g Likit and 250g Little Likit treat blocks. Contact Likit Products 01655 750523 or visit www.likit.co.uk for further information.

reland’s Castle Leslie Estate is one of Europe’s finest equestrian playgrounds, and is nestled in 1,000 acres of woodland, with an impressive XC course. Their special festive package for two includes two nights’ luxurious accommodation with a full Irish breakfast each morning, a personalised half hour spa treatment, and a half hour riding lesson each. From £175 per person sharing, staying at the Estate’s luxurious, imposing castle, or £160 pps, staying at the bijou Lodge. Please visit www.castleleslie.com for more information on Castle Leslie Estate’s riding holidays. (Rates are quoted in sterling; based on current exchange rate. Guests’ accounts are settled in euros.)

Ideal Christmas Present

The Black Caviar grooming kit just £29-50p including delivery charge. Nine select pieces enable you to groom to perfection.A perfect choice. Email oakwood@on etel. com or call 01372 375869

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www.equi-ads.com

24/10/2014 11:57

Christmas Xxxxxxxxxx Gifts Ideas

CHRISTMAS BLING MARK TODD DIAMANTE SPUR STRAPS

These spur straps will appeal to anyone that loves a bit of extra sparkle. Available in three designs. Price: from £9.99 a pair GOLD LABEL SPARKLE BASKET

JHL DIAMANTE BROWBANDS

A choice of designs ranging from a subtle sparkle to full-on bling. Available on black or brown leather in pony, cob or full size. Price: from £12.99

Packed with all the essential sparkly goodies that any child might need to ‘bling-up’ their pony. Includes glittery hoof varnish, gels and sprays – perfect for those Christmas shows. Price: £29.70

MARK TODD DIAMANTE BELTS

These snazzy belts are encrusted with diamante and come in black or white patent or plain black leather. Price: from £37.99 KAROO STOCK PINS

These sparkling stock pins will brighten up even the dullest show day. Available in a range of styles. Price: from £8.99

Stubbs Horsey Ball

imple and robust, this entertaining toy dispenses treats or feed to keep horses, or even dogs, amused for hours. There are no plugs, stoppers or removable parts, just one hole for easy filling. The lumpy style ball seems to have a mind of its own and does not go in a straight line! Moulded from ultra tough Stubbythene (which is tested for impact strength at icy temperatures) the Horsey Ball is made to last. Available in Blue, Pink, Green, Purple and Red, RRP is around £15.99. For more information contact Abbey England on 01565 650343

tasty Dengie Stable Lick is the perfect gift. It’s packed with essential vitamins and minerals to keep him in blooming good health and comes in its own container.This tempting treat is molasses-based and includes XP yeast to help a horse get the most from his forage. Stable Lick, RRP: £17.59 - £18.59 (12.5kg)

www.equi-ads.com

Equi_Ads_Nov_EW_rev.indd 47

CONTACT WESTGATE EFI ON 01303 872277 OR VISIT WWW.WEFI.CO.UK FOR STOCKISTS

Stubbs Munch Station

he Munch Station from Stubbs, distributed by Abbey England, is perfect for horses and ponies, as it feeds from the bottom, making it more natural. The galvanised heavy steel bars are only 55mm away from each other, prolonging feeding time and reducing boredom. There is also a tilted, rot proof base, to ensure that all the hay is available at all times. There is space at the top for a corner manger which can be easily removed to provide access to fill the station with hay. This may be purchased separately. This great design means you won’t get covered in hay every time you go to fill the rack! Benefits also include a reduced risk of dust and seeds getting into the horse’s eyes. The Munch Station retails at around £120. For further information contact Abbey England on 01565 650343 or visit www.abbeyengland.com

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Results Xxxxxxxxxx

Strong Competition at Brooksby Melton College W

orking sheep farmer, Sam Evans and her 14-year old Toptimist Utopia secured a convincing win in the EquestrianClearance.com BRC BE80(T) Championships at Brooksby Melton College Horse Trials. Based at Warnford in Hampshire, Sam and the 16.1hh, bay gelding, won Section F and have had a rollercoaster of a few years together with Sam working hard to cement a solid relationship and foundation with the dressage bred Tip-Top. “We have been together fiveand-a-half years but it has been far from plain sailing,” said Sam. “He is bred for dressage, his sire is Krack C who is an Olympic gold medallist and he was originally bought as a potential top class dressage horse but his temperament couldn’t cope with the pressure. “I was introduced to him by friends and feel really fortunate that despite his issues we have learned so much together. “Our aim was to initially go

Michelle Harris and Yella Fella competing on the cross-country.

Sam Evans and Michelle Harris receiving their prizes from Lorraine Meadowcroft of EquestrianClearance.com

show jumping but he just couldn’t deal with the pressure and would stop, run out or spin round. “I was about to give up on him when I found a new instructor in Alison Smith who took us right back to basics and for six months we just concentrated on flatwork. “After a while Alison started suggesting we have a go at a BE80(T) competition but I took a lot of persuading. “We started with major problems at any water complex but thanks to patience and a lot of water schooling he now loves and some of our best results have been in the pouring rain and mud.” A member of Meon Riding Club, Sam’s season started off with a win at Bovington qualifying them for the EquestrianClearance. com sponsored championship. Added Sam: “We are now competing at BE90 level and our aim is the Badminton Grass Roots championship which would be just amazing. “I would encourage anyone to have a go starting with BE80(T), it is a brilliant way to join the

competition scene and has done so much for me and Tip-Top. “He has gone from a worried dressage horse to one who now chills out in a field of sheep in the week and then goes eventing at the weekend – what a star he really is.” Michelle Harris and the palomino, Yella Fella took the honours in Section G of the EquestrianClearance.com supported championship. Having decided to have a go at eventing before she reached the big 50, Michelle has now been competing for two years and couldn’t praise the series highly enough. Michelle and the eight-yearold gelding were in great form completing on their dressage score of 23. Michelle is a regular competitor in the world of dressage having won the Elementary Freestyle National Title in 2010. Based at Belton in North Lincolnshire, Michelle said: “I bought him as an awkward threeyear-old five years ago but after working together I realised he was

the ideal partner to try my hand at eventing. “He is such a star and really tries so hard and gives me a lot of confidence on the cross-country and has matured into a fantastic horse.” A member of the East Midlands Dressage Group, Michelle has been delighted with the support offered at the BE80(T) competitions throughout the year. “It is great arriving at an event knowing there are qualified British Eventing trainers on hand to help throughout the competition. “The organisation is very professional and friendly and competing in British Eventing competitions is just a breath of fresh air.” Michelle’s success saw her travelling home with a host of prizes including a trophy, sash, British Eventing training vouchers and EquestrianClearance.com vouchers to spend online with the leading retailer. The 36-strong section provided some keen competition with the scores very close amongst the top four places.

Sam Evans and Toptimist Utopia enjoying the crosscountry.

Frost-Resistant Arena Surfaces

s the winter months approach don’t let the weather hamper your riding and training at home. However, riding aside, the continuous cold does raise questions for surfacing your arena and will mean you’ll be searching for an arena surface that can stand up against adverse conditions. Equestrian Direct supply arena surfaces for all-weather conditions, and being experts in both riding and setting the best foundations for it, fully understand that even if your arena is covered, frost can still take hold of the surface and make it unable to be ridden on due to the risk of injury to your horse. If you’re looking for a surface that rides well and deals with all weather conditions, then the Flexiride™ is for you. Being great all year round

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whatever the weather, the Flexiride is the surface of choice for event rider Izzy Taylor. It is frostresistant and does not easily freeze or blow and is guaranteed 100% wire free. Flexiride also has high-impact absorbency for a cushioned ride and is virtually maintenance free making it extremely cost-effective. It can be laid onto a simple drainage layer or it can be used as a top up to enhance existing surfaces. Flexiride offers a high performance solution to the more traditional sand or rubber mix arenas. Beware of imitations that do not offer the same quality as Flexiride. For more information or a free quote contact Equestrian Direct Equine Surfaces on 01564 794020 or visit www.equestriandirectltd.co.uk www.equi-ads.com

24/10/2014 11:58

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24/10/2014 11:58

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24/10/2014 11:58