Equi-Ads March 2014 - UK Edition by Equi-Ads Ltd

The UK’s Finest Equine Health, Management and Training Magazine

EE ®

MARCH 2014

Inside this issue:

•Dental Disease •Diet and managing laminitis •When to call the vet •Medical emergencies •Cross Country •Nutrition Focus •Bridle fitting Advice • Horse Behaviour •Fly Grazing - The Law •Cash Jumping League Table •Plus news, advice and much more besides

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Xxxxxxxxxx Have Your Say

Main Features Trade head for NEC ...............8 Nutrition Focus ....................12 Managing Laminitis .............13 Dental Disease .......................18 Classical Riding Pt 2 ............20 When to call the vet ............28 Bridle Fitting ..........................38 Saddlery competition ...........39 Fly Grazing ............................41 Prepare for season ahead ....43 Horse Behaviour ...................46 Korando test report ..............48

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HORMONES SETTLE DOWN F rom February onwards hormones can be a real problem in mares. FriskyMarePlus is one of the strongest supplements that aims to maintain normality in the most difficult mares. Most similar supplement use a plant called Agnus Castus but FriskyMare needs no Agnus because of its powerful tropical plant formulation including Vidanga fruit. Use FriskyMare routinely whenever that challenge is too great but also save for quick

action whenever the environment of your mare changes. Many horse owners are now amazed that there is a supplement that provides a nutritional approach that is so powerful. It can also be combined with the SuperCalm formula which provides an equally strong direct calming approach. FriskyMarePlus 1kg £31.75 For full details contact Global Herbs on 01243 773363 www.globalherbs.co.uk

CHAPS Midlands Regional Show B ritish Horse Feeds is pleased to announce support for the Coloured Horse & Pony Society (CHAPS) Midlands Regional Show 2014. The show which takes place on Saturday 5th July at Weston Lawns EC, Coventry, will attract competitors from all over the country. In 2013 more than 165 horses attended the show, making it the largest one day coloured horse and pony show in the country. Will I’Anson of British Horse Feeds told Equi-Ads: “We are delighted to be supporting the show

and look forward to providing Speedi-Beet as prizes for six of the classes. “Speedi-Beet is an excellent feed for show horses and ponies as it provides non-heating energy and helps to build and maintain condition, approved by the Laminitis Trust, it is also safe for laminitics.” The Speedi-Beet RRP is around £10.95-£11.90.

For more information on SpeediBeet please contact British Horse Feeds on 01765 680300 or visit www. britishhorsefeeds.com. British Horse Feeds is on Facebook.

New horse syndication service udo Rock Limited is a new business

offering a performance horse syndication service, which specialises in providing unique shares for the duration of a competitive season. Kudos syndicates are a way forward for many owners, professional riders and those who simply enjoy and wish to become more involved with British Eventing or British Showjumping. The company offer a tailored service with various packages available to suit all budgets and interests. info@krphs.co.uk or call 07815 669 482.

John Farmer OBE has retired after almost 40 years as Show Director at Hickstead.

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www.conchiesaddlery.co.uk Telephone Dundee 01382 532536

Chestnut gelding goes for £33,000 at auction

lla Salzgeber took home the third best selling horse of the Westphalian winter auction, the five-year old chestnut gelding Quintessenz (by Quaterback x Ehrentusch x Damenstolz). The German A-team rider and Olympic medallist paid €40,000 (£33,000) for the youngster. “I tried him out last week and after two minutes I knew this was my horse,” said Salzgeber. “He will make the trip to his new home next week after the show in Munster.” Rocktool was the top selling horse in the winter auction at the Westphalian equestrian centre in Munster-Handorf in January. The five-year old gelding by Rockwell sold for €63,000 (£52,000), the top price at the 2014 Handorf Extra auction. The second most expensive horse at this

auction was the five-year old bright bay gelding A-Klasse (by Ampere x Lord Loxley x Champus) who sold for €50,000. The five-year old bay mare Baccara, by Basic x Florestan, sold for €37,000, while the four-year old dark bay gelding Eastcoast (by Ehrenpreis x Sherlock Holmes x Warkant) switched owners for €28,000. The most expensive young stallion prospect was the three-year old stallion Rocky Balboa (by Rocky Lee x Arpeggio x Ramiro), for which the hammer struck at €16,000. Mrs. Rhegan White, Director of Sales and Marketing, UK/USA told Equi-Ads “Our clients are very happy with their purchases and our members are happy with the sales results.” The next auction will be the Spring Elite Auction on Sunday 6th April.

Buster abandoned at a bus stop!

Shetland pony found tied to a city centre bus stop is now looking for a family to call his own. Buster, a 34-inch grey Shetland pony was rescued by HorseWorld having been abandoned, tied to a bus stop on a busy city street in Bristol. Onlookers were astonished to see the rather unusual commuter waiting patiently for an owner that was never to return. HorseWorld’s Equine Husbandry Manager, Joanne Vaughan gave him a full veterinary MOT. He has now completed his rehabilitation program and now requires a good home. “Buster is good to handle (though may nip a little bit!) and good with the vet and farrier. He likes other horses but as he was 21 years old at castration, he will have some stallion tendencies so may need to live with geldings. He is such a character, the staff will really miss him here but it would be so nice for him to have someone who can give him the attention he deserves.” To find out more about Buster and rehoming a rescued horse, please visit www.horseworld. org.uk/rehome or call 01275 832067

Support for laminitic diets at Aivly Aivly Country Store’s online search facility and the in store friendly and experienced staff can help you choose the best complete feed, feed balancer or nutritional supplement to support your laminitic pony or horse. Among the offerings of high fibre, low starch and sugar feeds and chaffs are Dengie Healthy 2 | March 2014

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Hooves chaff and Allen & Page Sugar & Cereal intolerance diet. Laminitis supplements include Equine America Lamigard and Global Herbs Laminitis Prone Supplement - the latter even claiming to make spring grass safe for consumption by laminitics. Given research also suggests laminitis is most

commonly triggered by endocrine dysfunction, you may also seek out specific products aimed at regulating the endocrine system including NAF Cushinaze. Visit Aivly Country Store, Crow Lane, Ringwood, Hampshire BH24 3EA. www.aivly.com. Tel 01425 472341. www.equi-ads.com

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Cross Country the Safe Way!

his year, the hugely popular masterclasses of cross country clinics are being conducted at equestrian centres across England from 2nd to 9th March inclusive. Those aiming to kick off their season in style can choose from seven coaching masterclasses taking place at venues across the country from Surrey to Yorkshire and Cheshire to Cambridgeshire. Riders will have the opportunity to be trained by and receive advice from former World and European champion, Olympic silver medallist and six times Badminton winner Lucinda Green MBE. The only rider ever to have won Badminton Horse Trials six times on six different horses, Lucinda, who continues to compete her own horse, ‘Cry Freedom’ at three star level, is one of the world’s leading coaches in cross country riding. Her particular passion and speciality is in helping riders understand the way that horses think and react while tackling the challenges that riding cross country presents. In the Petplan Masterclass with Lucinda series she provides expert advice; sharing techniques and skills that have made her one of the most successful riders in the history of eventing and also helped those she teaches to develop the confidence to ride more safely. “The important message that I try to impart in my Masterclasses is that cross country riding isn’t about sitting on a horse, going flat out,” explains Lucinda. “Effective cross country riding is both a science and an art. As riders, our job is to do three things - keep the horse’s engine going, keep a good line into a fence - ensuring the horse has focused on the fence in plenty of time - and keep both our horses and ourselves in balance. A horse that thinks for himself and listens to his rider in equal measure is going to be a safer cross country horse.”

New padded headpiece

ate Negus Saddlery has launched a completely redesigned padded headpiece for 2014 designed by the company’s Managing Director, Julia Andrews. It combines a padded headpiece with a design that reduces pressure around the back of the horse’s ears with a wider section at the top to reduce poll pressure. In addition, this style features an integral noseband hanger to allow the noseband to be fastened onto the headpiece for further comfort. To find out more call 01249 740590/0780 115 0571

Date

County

Venue

Sunday - Monday 2/3rd March (Two day Clinic)

Reigate, Surrey

LMEQ

Tuesday 4th March

Banbury, Oxfordshire

Swalcliffe

Wednesday 5th March

Lincoln, Lincolnshire

Norton Disney

Thursday 6th March

Congleton, Cheshire

Somerford Park

Friday 7th March

Thirsk, Yorkshire

Breckenborough

Saturday 8th March

Ely, Cambridgeshire

Little Downham

Sunday 9th March

Warminster, Wiltshire

Downlands

Get in touch now: See more at: www.petplanequine.co.uk/masterclass Each Petplan Masterclass with Lucinda can be tailored to suit riders of a wide range of abilities from those preparing for their first event or sponsored ride to those aiming for Badminton. However, from the outset, horse and rider should be confident jumping a course of at least 2’6”. As a specialist equine insurer, Petplan Equine offers a range of flexible policies for both horse and rider. Its support for the clinics forms part of its commitment to the equestrian community and a desire to help riders of all levels learn techniques to keep them and their horses as safe as possible. “Whatever your preference for cross country riding from eventing to fun rides, it is essential to be equipped with techniques that can help you keep you and your horse safe while enjoying your sport,” said Charlotte Collyer, Senior Marketing Executive at Petplan Equine. “Lucinda Green is not only one of the world’s finest cross country riders but she is also an expert in helping riders to enjoy the thrill of cross country riding as safely as possible. We are therefore delighted to continue our support of these clinics for what is now the 15th year,” explained Charlotte. In celebration of the 2014 Masterclasses’, Petplan Equine is running a competition to win your own set of Lucinda style practice jumps so you can practice at home. This fabulous prize includes two blocks, four small blocks, four wings, eight cups, six poles and two short poles. - See more at: http:// www.petplanequine. co.uk/events/lucindagreen-competition.asp For further information on the Petplan Masterclass with Lucinda Clinics visit http://www. petplanequine.co.uk/ masterclass. To book a place, fill in the application form on the website and send it to the address on the form.

Magnesium important in your horse’s diet L

L L L L

aminShield provides horse owners with a safe, easy, energy free and palatable way to supplement the horse’s diet with magnesium. Magnesium is an important factor in hundreds of body processes, a deficiency of which could be a contributing factor to a number of equine issues. In LaminShield, five different types of magnesium, along with three types of Bioplex, are combined in one product, to help promote health and well being. LaminShield is available as a lick (2kg and 5kg) and in pre-measured sachets, called LaminShield Pure. These two options help to ensure that LaminShield fits with all management routines. Prices for the lick start at £12.86, and a box of 28 LaminShield Pure Sachets has a RRP of £29.38.

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

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ROCKIES

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Rockies’ range of mineralised salt licks provides horses that don’t require a bucketfeed (or don’t need their full ration) with a simple and cost effective way of acquiring vitamins, minerals and trace elements.

Rockies’ range of mineralised salt licks provides Here are some top products for winter… Rockies’ of mineralised salt (or licks provides horses that range don’t require a bucketfeed don’t Health Licks are available in five delicious horses bucketfeed (or don’t flavours need theirthat fulldon’t ration)require with aa simple and cost apple, cherry, mintaminerals and garlic) andcost sized to fit effective way offull acquiring vitamins, and need (carrot, their ration) with simple and into a 2kg holder. They contain salt and a range trace elements. effective way of acquiring vitamins, minerals and of

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Let our qualified fitting staff take care of your

safety & comfort

What is Horseball?

orseball is an equestrian team sport which originates from the early 1970s when two brothers from Bordeaux, France were asked to create a new and exciting sport and combined the games of Basketball and Rugby to create the Game of Horseball! The sport arrived in the UK in 1991 and so started The British Horseball Association. The game has also been likened to the fast and fictional game of Quidditch in more recent years, just swap the flying broomsticks for horses!

www.aivly.co.uk 01425 472341 Crow Lane, Ringwood, BH24 3EA

ULC30 Plus For all horses Scientifically designed to keep healthy digestion. Assists in preventing tetchy and girthy horses. Helps alleviate mood swings. Improves hind gut digestion. Used by many trainers.

An HFL approved special scientifically designed digestive product combining amino acids and herbs. Recommended by veterinarians and farriers.

How can you get involved? Contact – www.britishhorseball.co.uk to find clubs & events near you! Also you can find them on Facebook – British Horseball Association.

Not freeze marked yet?

s it because you think theft will never happen to you? This is what the thieves want you to think. Theft of horses and ponies so often occurs through complacency. Maybe it is because you do not want a visible mark on your horse? Don’t forget if a mark is visible, it can be seen not only by you, but by the thieves. You might think you have done enough by having your horse or pony micro chipped? They’re fine for registration of animals, but a thief does not see a microchip. Are you worried about showing your horse or pony? You shouldn’t be – over 300,000 horses and ponies have now been marked – from those owned by top professionals to the owner of the beloved family pet. Perhaps you think freeze marking is expensive? Well, the average charge with Freezemark Ltd is under £50 and that covers the freeze mark and you get a free year’s security back-up and registration. Also, if you book by 1st April, you will get 10% discount per freeze mark – you can even choose your own mark!

All you need to do is to telephone 01295 788226 or email info@freezemark. biz and also full details of the service can be found at www.freezemark.biz

Less expensive than other ULC products. If you think your horse has a digestive problem, try a free sample and see the difference in a week. Testimonials available. Tel: 01432 851111 Email: ron@ronfieldsnutrition.co.uk 6 | March 2014

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News

Cyden Dressage Stallions make their Debut T

he Cyden Dressage Stallions, standing at stud for the first time in 2014, made their public debut at the British Stallion Event held at Hartpury College in Gloucestershire. Owned by North Lincolnshire-based Lara Dyson, the Cyden Dressage Stallions team comprises of Cyden Cadans M, Cyden Bodyguard Moorland and Cyden Oostings Amigo. The one day spectacular at Hartpury College allows owners to present their stallions while commentary is provided with a biography of the stallions’ pedigree, competing history and notable progeny. All the top stallions from the UK and Europe attended the biggest stallion event in the UK, so the Cyden Stallions were in prestigious company. Before the demonstration’s got underway the stables were buzzing with potential mare owners wanting to view the stallions without their rugs on. Bodyguard in particular revelled in the attention. First into the arena was NWPCS pony stallion Cyden Oosting Amigo ridden for the day by the current pony European Gold Medallist Phoebe Peters. Rising five, Amigo is by Hagelkruis Valentijn x Verona’s Bo-Gi and delighted the crowd as he displayed a temperament well beyond his years trotting in time to the latest Pharrell Williams tune ‘Happy’. Next into the arena was KWPN approved Cyden Cadans M, ridden by Lara who trains and competes the talented stallion. The seven-year-old by Sir Donnerhall x Pion x Elcaro gave an impressive display of his extravagant paces and demonstrated to the audience

why he is reigning champion in an unprecedented four classes from the Northern Regional Championships. Finally, it was KWPN approved Cyden Bodyguard Moorland’s turn to strut his stuff. Ridden by Lara the eight-year-old by Gribaldi x Negro performed some of his most outstanding moves to the sounds of Katy Perry’s Roar. Few stallions have the pedigree of Bodyguard, being closely related to the legendary Totilas and also gold medal winning Valegro. Speaking of their day at Hartpury, Lara said: “The British Stallion Event was a new experience for me and all the Cyden Dressage team but one that we all enjoyed enormously. It was an honour to be able to showcase our stallions there to begin their careers as working stallions as well as competing.” “I would like to say thankyou to Lynne Crowden for introducing herself to me and thanking me for bringing some fantastic stallions into the UK with such quality breeding and for her kind words of commentary and her acknowledgement of my way of training.” “I was also thrilled that Phoebe Peters agreed to ride Amigo for us here and would like to say a special thankyou to Amigo’s regular rider, Liberty Tyler for agreeing to give up her much loved pony for the day.” added Lara. Cyden Dressage Stallions will be standing at Stallion AI Services this April. For further information contact Lara Dyson on 07920 452739 or visit www.cydendressage.com

Breathe easy this spring!

f your horse suffers from pollen or dust allergies, helping to maintain a healthy respiratory system can become quite a challenge, especially during the spring months, so it’s good to know that Verdo Horse Bedding can help. The clever heat-treated wood pellet product, created for equine use, which not only has a low dust content, making it the ideal choice for horses with compromised respiratory issues, but also absorbs three times is own weight in liquid. This not only helps maintain a dry environment, but also reduces ammonia, which again helps ensure that your horse is happier and healthier in the stable. The bedding comes in compact, easy to store bags,

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which once a small amount of water is added to the bag, a regeneration process is activated and within approximately 20 minutes, you are ready to empty the open bags out into the stable or lorry to create a soft fluffy and dry bed! Because the pellets are manufactured from 100% virgin soft wood and heat treated to eliminate pests and bacteria, you can rest assured that your horse is sleeping on only the best and with less waste on the muck heap and beds which are easier and quicker to muck out. RRP: £5.65 - £5.95 per 15kg bag To find out more information and to view a demonstration video, please visit; www.verdohorsebedding.co.uk

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TRADE BUYERS HEAD FOR THE NEC

qui-Ads recently spent three days in one of the spacious exhibition halls at the National Exhibition Centre near Birmingham attending the BETA trade show where owners of riding schools, tack shops and country stores could see and compare a great variety of equestrian products and make their decisions what to stock for the season ahead. Apart from the large trade stands which housed the bigger names in the trade many small stands, like our own, managed to hold their own selling a wide range of products from gloves to handbags, clothing of every description to yard brooms. Trespass Showing a wide range of leisure clothing and footwear. Based in Glasgow since 1938. Excellent range of clearance items.

Heather Hats and accessories Excellent display of hats and caps made from British tweed, waxed cotton and wool felt.

Equi-Ads Our monthly magazine with a huge circulation amongst owners and riders. In the picture are Kirsty, Aline and Stephanie.

Kanyon Outdoor Outstanding display of boots of all descriptions with advanced membrane technology making the products water-proof. Top seller is their Gorse X-Rider at £139-95.

Vetericyn Health products for the equine market - one step wound and skin care product.

Trilanco Wholesaler based in Lancashire offer a wide range of products from clipping, first aid, nutritional, stable products, horse wormers etc.

Globe Traders UK Ltd Located in Hertfordshire and Surrey. Manufacture and distribute high quality finished leather and leather related products; equestrian riding boots, safety shoes, bags and wallets. Source materials and products from their own well-equipped factory . As a result can guarantee timely delivery of quality products at competitive rates. Can create products based on customer specifications.

Ariat Europe Ltd Large stand featuring footwear and apparel. Toggi/Champion Showing apparel. Busy open style stand. Ekkia French wholesaler who produce a massive equestrian catalogue. Employ three field representatives but leave customer promotions largely to displays in store.

Emerald Green Feeds A.Poucher & Sons farm in Lincolnshire who produce quality dried grass and alfalfa pellets.

Have you got an Equestrian property for sale? Advertise a property for sale advert in Equi-Ads and get a free advert on the newly launched Equi-Homes website.

Telephone 01159 461146 for more information 8 | March 2014

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Likit Bright, welcoming stand where one could talk about treats for horse’s. Company help to move product with advertising.

Deluxe Padded KM Elite Grazing muzzle that helps limit grass intake and perfect for horses or ponies that are prone to laminitis. Made with new, more pliable rubber for added comfort making the mask softer yet tougher. Padding on the head strap for extra comfort. Tough, field tested rubber. Fully adjustable. Available in Small Pony, Large Pony, Cob, Full and XL. £16.00 fromwww. kmeliteproducts.co.uk Telephone 01403 759659.

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News

Great Reception for Parelli Demonstration at Easton College

he Parelli East Anglian Professionals team presented an evening of education and inspiration at Easton College, Norfolk. There was a great turnout with around 70 people braving the cold for the demonstration. Three-Star Parelli Professional Jody Ruysen led the presentation with fellow instructors Cath Langley, Anthony Greenleaves and Jennifer Woods supporting her with their horses.

Everything for Horse and Rider Bit Hire, Rug Wash & Repair, Feed Orders, Leather Repair, Equilibrium Pad Hire, Out of Hours Service Stockists of Freejump

Spring Sale Ends Soon ALL CASUAL CLOTHING, COMPETITION CLOTHING AND RUGS New Spring Stock coming in March 10% OFF Purchases of non sale items with this advert Tel: 01773 570490 07427 647 308 joanne@snafflessaddlery.co.uk

Castlewood Farm Orchard Grove, Codnor nr Ripley Derbyshire, DE5 9AB

www.snafflessaddlery.co.uk

!!! Jody kicked things off with an explanation about the Parelli program and how to develop a relationship with your horse based on love, language and leadership. She then progressed through the Seven Games and on to riding. Anthony and Cath finished off the evening with a joint spotlight for some inspiration. All proceeds from the evening went to support the Animal Health Trust.

Strong Keratin growth H

oof Mender 75 helps support healthy hoof growth and comes with a money back guarantee! The supplement contains 75mg of biotin per daily amount along with high levels of bio available zinc, which is essential for strong keratin growth. In addition to this, Hoof Mender 75 contains 27 other active ingredients that work to promote healthy hoof growth. Equimins are so confident in this product that they offer a full money back guarantee. See the website for more details. Hoof Mender 75 is available in powder or pellet form, in 1.8kg, 3kg, 5kg, 10kg and 20kg packs. Prices start from £22.35. Healthy hoofs Biotin Plus 25 contains 25mg of biotin per daily amount to help healthy hoof growth and skin condition. It contains higher levels of biotin that Equimins’ entry level hoof supplement (Biotin 15) and combines this with different sources of bio-available zinc to help support keratin growth in the hoof. Biotin Plus 25 is available in 1kg, 2kg and 3kg quantities. Prices start from £14.75. For more information see www.equimins.com, email sales@ equimins.com or call 01548 531770. www.equi-ads.com

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March 2014 | 9

21/02/2014 17:51

Training

Horsemanship Contest S pecialist trainers from eight European countries will battle it out for the Horseman’s Calling title. The contest culminates in a Grand Championship to be held in the UK in 2015. Organised by Grant Bazin, this ground-breaking contest promises to be one of the most fascinating equestrian events staged for years. Contests will be held in the UK, Sweden, Denmark, The Netherlands, Germany, France, Spain and Italy. Horsemen and women will be judged on their skills in starting young horses, dealing with loading phobias and vices and gaining complete trust from inexperienced, scared or problem

LAND WANTED

Hoof treatment A

equines using the most co-operative and non-violent methods. The first leg of Horseman’s Calling takes place on Saturday-Sunday, April 5-6, 2014 at Bury Farm Equestrian Centre, Buckinghamshire. Judges will be well-known, highly experienced personalities from the wider equestrian sports world such as racing, dressage and eventing.

nimalintex Hoof Treatment® 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. Highly absorbent, it is extremely versatile and can be applied either as a wet, hot or cold poultice, or as a dry dressing, to suit the needs of your horse’s injury or condition. When applied as a hot, wet poultice Animalintex® increases the blood supply to the hoof, providing more oxygen, and white blood cells, which fight infection. The improved blood flow reduces the swelling, whilst the warmth of the poultice relieves the horse of pain, providing comfort. It retails at around £5.50. See your local tack shop or contact Robinson Animal Healthcare on 01909 735000 or visit www. robinsonhealthcare.com

The Fleck Black & Purple Whip RRP: £85.00

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Charles Owen AYR8 Leather Look Riding Hat Prices start from £249.00

Horses Inside Out A Practical look at Applied Biomechanics, Movement, Posture, Skeletal Maturity, Training, Dressage, Jumping, Position, Therapy, Saddle-ﬁt, Assessment and Asymmetry. March 29/30th 2014 - Royal Agricultural University, Cirencester. GL7 6JS This course will look at practical aspects of applied biomechanics and anatomical principles of movement related to the horse. It will take an in depth look at the structure and function of the equine body and relate it to way of going. The course is illustrated with wonderful slow motion video of painted horses showing exactly what is happening under the skin. There will be plenty of discussion and hands on participation. The course is a mix of theory and practical observation. It is of interest to riders, therapists, saddlers, farriers - in fact anyone who would like to appreciate the relevance of applied anatomy and biomechanics to how the horse moves. Course Content and Timetable (Provisional)

Saturday March 29th 08.30 09.00 09.15 10.30 11.00 11.20 12.10 12.30 13.15 13.45 14.15 14.45 15.15 17.00

Registration and Coffee Introduction to Applied Biomechanics Anatomy and Biomechanics of the Spine Posture and the Effect of Riding Break Appendicular Biomechanics Study of Literature and Anatomical Specimens Lunch Understanding the Biomechanics of Tendons and Ligaments Assessing Horses for Posture Preparation for Practical Session Break - Drive to Yard (5 minutes) Practical Session Close

Sunday March 30th 09.00 09.15 09.45 11.00 11.20 12.30 13.15 14.30 14.45 15.30 16.00

Registration and Coffee Understanding Muscle Chains Practical Application of Biomechanics to Way of Going Break Practical Application of Biomechanics to Way of Going continued……….. Lunch Gymnastic Jumping Exercises for Flexibility and Coordination Break The effects of Asymmetry Questions and Discussion. Close

For details, course fees, an application form, how to pay and where to stay, go to http://www.horsesinsideout.com/BiomechanicsMarch2014.html. Alternatively ring Shirley on +44 (0) 1159212648 10 | March 2014

Equi_Ads_Mar_EW_rev.indd 10

www.equi-ads.com

21/02/2014 17:51

News

Countrywide open in Glastonbury A

new Countrywide Farmers Store has opened in Glastonbury. Britain’s Olympic para-equestrian Deb Criddle, born in Somerset, and Exeter Chiefs Star Ben Moon celebrated with the local rural community and Countrywide staff as the Mayor of Glastonbury, Susan Thurgood, declared the store officially ‘open for business’. Steve Collard, Countrywide Stores Director said, “We are delighted to open this new store in Glastonbury. This has been a long anticipated move for Countrywide Farmers and means customers in Somerset’s rural community will have better access to our leading range of products and services.

From left to right Deb Criddle (gold medallist 2012), Ben Moon (Exeter Chiefs), Tracey Lockyer (store manager), Nigel Hall (Chairman, Countrywide), Susan Thurgood (Mayor Glastonbury) and John Hardman (CEO, Countrywide). Deb Criddle in store.

Split level design The split level store has been specially designed to ensure the focus is

Arena Eventing Series at Northcote Stud Equestrian Centre

eoprene performance footwear specialists, Grub’s will be sponsoring the Arena Eventing Series at Northcote Stud Equestrian Centre in Lancashire. The series is aimed at ‘grass root’ level eventing with junior and senior classes of 80cm, 90cm and 1m taking place ca Competitor will jump a course of 16-20 fences set up in the large outdoor arena. The first part of the course will be show jumps with the latter section being a mix of rustic style jumps and solid cross-country style fences.

on agriculture, equestrian, clothing and pet products. Customers can also use in-store, on-line kiosks to browse and order from an extra 14,000 product lines, while still benefitting from oneon-one expert advice from in-store staff. A Sales Office has been included for farming, smallholder and equestrian customers to meet with Countrywide specialists: including qualified agronomists, nutritionists, animal health experts and the area’s business Sales Managers, who will split their time between working in store and out and about with customers. The office provides a dedicated area for customers who want advice or to discuss bulk deal pricing. Qualified in store pet and equine specialists will be on hand at all times to advise on the best choice of product, including feed and animal health medicines.

Step out of stiffness!

uggles & Stopitall offer the unique, potent and proven Omega 3 joint product from New Zealand Green Lipped Mussel (GLM). The Maxavita Pernamax Equine tablets can be fast-acting (7-10 days) and help soothe your horse’s stiff, sore and aching joints naturally. Ideal for arthritis, bone issues with foals, competition bone stresses and after laminitis as well as dealing with Omega three deficiencies (also available for humans and dogs). Tablets are crushable and without bulky fillers.

Visit www.karenruggles.co.uk to purchase online and see testimonials or call 01823 259952.

Feet First! C

linical trials have shown that aloe vera can boost hoof growth by more than 50% over a four-month period – and the unique spectrum of nutrients within Aloeride can bring even better results. It also supports the growth of healthy skin and hair too, in one small daily sachet of Aloeride RRP: £55.20 (1 x months supply) www.aloeride.co.uk 01858 464550

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

There will also be an undisclosed optimum time and time penalties will occur for every second a rider that is 10 seconds faster or 5 seconds slower. Prize money will be up for grabs for the top three placings in each section and the winner will also receive a pair of Grub’s boots. Said David Foster of Grub’s: “We are delighted to be supporting a local event that encourages riders at grass root level to hopefully move up into the world of affiliated eventing.” Grub’s Boots Arena Eventing Dates: Sunday 23rd March 2014

For more information or to enter visit www.northcotestud.co.uk or contact Northcote Stud Equestrian Centre on 01254 245116. www.equi-ads.com

Equi_Ads_Mar_EW_rev.indd 11

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 March 2014 | 11

21/02/2014 17:51

Feeding

NUTRITION FOCUS

Dr Tom Shurlock of British Horse Feeds shares his expertise...

n this feature, we invite experts to answer your burning questions - please email us at nutrition@ equiads.com if you have an equine nutrition enquiry. (Your questions may be shortened to fit the available space.) Q. Is it true you can provide sufficient energy for a working horse with just sugar beet flakes, a balancer and forage, e.g. without a cereal component?

From R. Urban, Durham

A. Yes, you can! Although we are talking ‘slow release’ energy here, there are several factors that can affect the total energy derived from a fibre source. Firstly, there is the profile of

he Megan is available in black, clay and sahara, all with matching perforated deerskin knee patches. Available in sizes XS, S, M, L, XL, for a suggested retail price of £115. See FITSriding. com for a complete list of online and local retailers, and for more information.

12 | March 2014

Equi_Ads_Mar_EW_rev.indd 12

the fibres. Those in beet fibre are particularly rich in pectins [specific water-soluble carbohydrates] and hemicelluloses [ from the cell walls of plants], and these will favour those bacteria that can ferment a broad range of fibre (incidentally, it has been shown that beet fibre has a prebiotic effect, promoting good digestion and overall health). Secondly, there is the time involved. The bacteria in the small intestine can start to break down some of the fibre types in beet, potentially giving up to 24 extra hours of energy release from a beet meal! Thirdly, energy release depends directly on the physical contact of the microbe and its feed source. If a fibre is soluble, then its potential contact

with a microbe rises from ~20 per cent to 100 per cent. Finally, the interaction between different hindgut microbes boosted by the presence of beet fibre give a unique fermentation pattern of key slow release energy nutrients. This means that beet fibre, being high in pectins, hemicellulose and solubility, can release 80 -90 per cent of its inherent energy before being voided [at the end of the digestive journey, as faeces]. Using the American method of calculation, beet pulp has a DE value of 15MJ/kg, more than sufficient to provide energy for a working horse. Incidentally, British Horse Feeds’ Speedi-Beet is a 100% unmolassed beet flake that has undergone a unique process that shatters fibre strands, allowing even more microbial contact, and further boosting energy. Q. Can you explain what we mean by ‘super fibre?’ From D Clutterbuck, Powys A. A super fibre is a feed source where the fibre component has a higher digestibility, or fermentability, and so a greater energy contribution than ordinary fibre sources. In increasing value, super fibres include: Alfalfa, Soya Hulls and Beet Pulp, with ‘degradability’ values (e.g. the value given to how long the fibre stays in the animal’s system) ranging from 60% to 85%. The term ‘super fibre’ has been overused recently, with many products claiming to be super fibres! However, there are some distinctive factors that define a super fibre.

These include high utilisation by those bacteria that ferment fibre, releasing volatile fatty acids that are referred to as ‘slow release energy’. This is because they enter the biochemical pathways inside the digestive system continuously, as opposed to a sudden influx of absorbed sugars from the small intestine. For an average fibre source, such as grass, you would expect an effective degradability of around 45%. That is, about 45% of the fibre content will be broken down by microbial activity, releasing energy nutrients, before the fibre is voided in the animal’s faeces. For a super fibre, this value – the effective degradability – is in the region of 60+%, and therefore defines Alfalfa, Soya Hulls and Beet Pulp as ‘super fibres’. Beet Pulp is the most outstanding. For more information on FibreBeet or Speedi-Beet, please contact British Horse Feeds on 01765 680300 or visit www. britishhorsefeeds.com

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21/02/2014 17:51

Healthcare * Feeding

Dietary ways to prevent and manage laminitis

aminitis is a disease of horses and ponies that has been around for a very long time. Xenophon, the ancient Greek historian and philosopher who was on this earth between 430 to 354BC described a disease called “barley surfeit”. Not to be outdone, Aristotle in 350BC refers to laminitis in his book “The history of animals”. So by now, after all these years, it would not be unreasonable to expect that the disease would be fully understood but in fact, it is not! It is only relatively recently that it has been discovered that up to 90% of laminitis cases are caused by an underlying hormonal disease and that other factors considered to be causal of laminitis such as lush grass, are in fact merely trigger factors. In order to fully understand this scenario it is helpful to be aware of these hormonal diseases (endocrine disorders). Equine Cushings disease has always been thought to be a disease of the old horse or pony but now it has been shown through clinical tests that adults of all ages can be affected. Nowadays it is more correct to refer to Equine Cushings as Equine Pituitary Pars Intermedia Dysfunction which is a real mouthful! Thus, the name is abbreviated to PPID. This is easily diagnosed via a blood test to measure hormone levels and so you can get your vet to check out your animals. The substance measured is Adrenocorticotropic Hormone (ACTH) and is elevated in cases of PPID. The other important hormonal disorder is termed Equine Metabolic Syndrome (EMS) and is characterised by high circulating insulin levels, the hormone required for the control of blood sugar levels. These animals are regarded as being “insulin resistant” because they do not possess the same sensitivity to the action of insulin. Native British pony breeds seem particularly susceptible but it is also encountered amongst some horse breeds. Generally obese animals suffer from EMS but animals can be of normal weight or even underweight and still have EMS. In these latter animals EMS is often characterised by an abnormal fat distribution such as above the eyes. Often animals may have both PPID and EMS. Blood tests for insulin and/or a glucose challenge will reveal whether an animal has EMS or not. Thus, PPID and EMS affected horses and

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

ponies have an underlying hormonal disorder which renders them susceptible to certain trigger factors that can elevate circulating insulin levels and thus precipitate laminitis. This is why, if you turn out 20 horses or ponies onto a grass pasture in the spring they do not all succumb to laminitis. However, the odd animal with an underlying hormonal disorder will probably develop laminitis. Lush grass per se will not cause laminitis provided animals are certified free of EMS and/or PPID. Laminitis can be triggered by a variety of different causes. Commonly, feeding an excess of grass high in simple sugars and fructan (the water soluble carbohydrates WSC) or overfeeding starch-rich concentrates will cause the problem. It is noteworthy that non-structural carbohydrates (NSC) represent the sum of WSC and starch and temperate grasses may contain up to 10% starch, the remaining 90% being WSC. Hormonal imbalance in EMS or PPID horses and ponies is another cause as described above. Laminitis can arise as a sequel to infection (eg., retained placenta in a mare) or to the administration of large doses of corticosteroids. Similarly but less commonly, it can result in stressed horses, say as a result of long distance transport, within whom the adrenal cortex releases steroids. Excessive weight-bearing in one leg as a result of say lameness in the opposite leg

can also be causal as can concussion from riding on hard surfaces but both of these factors are fortunately relatively rare. Having clarified the causes of laminitis and explained that certain Equids are vulnerable, we can now consider dietary strategies to prevent the disease occurring. It is relatively easy to diet a horse or pony overwinter as you are providing its food. So it should be possible to regulate intake until the animal has achieved the desired body condition score; obese horses and ponies are more likely to develop laminitis than those in the correct condition (fat score 2.5 to 3 on a scale of 1 to 5). It is virtually impossible to diet horses when at grass unless you impose very stringent conditions including a rigorous exercise programme. The overall diet should be based on high fibre forage and this can be readily achieved with housed animals by purchasing very stemmy grass hay. The WSC content should be low but it can be further reduced by soaking. Alfalfa inclusion can be useful because it supplies essential nutrients such as protein, calcium, magnesium and carotene and at the same time is relatively low in WSC. If an animal has difficulty maintaining condition on such a diet then calorie intake can be increased by simply top dressing the feed with vegetable oil. One has to be rather careful using very high fibre feeds such as straw or very mature Timothy hay because the animal might not consume sufficient water and then there is the risk of impaction colic. Another benefit of soaking forage is that it augments the liquid intake. Grazings have to be managed with great care to avoid any risk to the animals that graze the pasture. Access should be limited to times when the WSCs are at their lowest, late evening and up to mid-morning for example. Furthermore, care should be taken to avoid horses being exposed to stressed pastures (eg., frosted grass) that can contain very high levels of WSC. It is best if when reseeding horse pastures that you use grass species that do not as a rule have high WSC content. For example, at the same stage of growth Cocksfoot contains much less WSC than Italian or Perennial ryegrasses and legumes such as clover are also low in WSCs. Generally one would advise owners not to put their horses (continued on page 20)

MAGIC CUSHION FOR LAMINITIS N ew Absorbine® Hooflex® Magic Cushion® hoof packing is an efficient way to cool and cushion bruised soles and sore feet and brings comfort for horses and ponies suffering from the effects of laminitis. Thermography tests show that the all-natural formula starts working to reduce heat in hooves in just one hour and the cleaning and cushioning properties help to keep soles in good condition, even under pads. Hooflex Magic Cushion is particularly useful and effective for laminitis sufferers as it can be used on shod and barefoot horses. It’s sticky, spongy texture enables it to mould perfectly to the horse’s sole. One application of lasts up to 48 hours. It can also be packed under a pad for the duration of the shoes. Magic Cushion is available in two strengths, Original for regular use, and Xtreme,

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Equi_Ads_Mar_National_Rev.indd 13

formulated for performance horse use with a higher concentration of ingredients. Both are available in 1.8kg and 4kg sizes. Magic Cushion is widely known to farriers in the US and Europe as a trusted and effective hoof packing. It’s formulated for use before and after athletic competition and under pads. It is a natural, capsicum free product and will not test positive in any equine discipline. How to use Magic Cushion: Step 1: Thoroughly clean all areas of the hoof using a hoof pick and if necessary, a stiff or wire brush. Magic Cushion must come into direct contact with the sole to be effective. Step 2: Apply an amount of hoof packing to the sole sufficient enough to cover the entire sole and cleft of the frog half an inch in depth. Step 3: If your horse has shoes on, put his foot own in sawdust or shavings to keep the

hoof packing in place and to allow the liquid ingredients to be absorbed into the sole. If your horse is barefoot, you will need to wrap the hoof to keep the hoof packing in place. Replace every 24-48 hours. For more product information, visit www. absorbine.co.uk or find us on facebook www. facebook.com/AbsorbineUK. March 2014 | 13

21/02/2014 17:23

Grade 1 Race Winner: Sandown 2013 Ascot 2014

Feeding

nutritional support A OMEGA

OMEGA

3 6 7 9 OMEGA

"I’ve been using Ultimate Oil for several months now and am very pleased with it. I believe it provides my horses with many extra vitamins and nutrients required by training and this has manifested itself in improved performance & peak condition" Gary Moore, Gary More Racing

Ultimate Oil, a perfectly blended high quality oil for the optimum health, appearance and well-being of your horse • Contains a sustainable source of essential oils of Coconut, Rice Bran, Flax Seed and Sea Buck • 190+ bio-active nutrients and high ratios of Omegas 3, 6, 7 & 9 • Formulated for all leisure and performance horses and ponies • Nourishes with essential fatty acids, minerals, antioxidants, and antibacterial nutrients • Relieves itching and encourages hair growth

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ntiLam is a pelleted multi-supplement designed to provide five-way nutritional support for those prone to, being treated for, or recovering from laminitis. It is used and recommended by nutritionists, vets and farriers and it has proved highly successful for thousands of horses and ponies. Most overweight ponies, and some overweight horses, are susceptible to laminitis. AntiLam is a formulation combining several supplements with a high-fibre, very low-calorie carrier to make it palatable. The formulation includes a broad-spectrum supplement, a hoof supplement, a pure, protected yeast to improve fibre digestibility and MOS (mannan oligosaccharides) to support the function of the yeast and to boost the immune system. Generous levels of anti-oxidants help to neutralise the free-radicles that are increased by stress. Long-term trials at Middle Park Laminitis Research Unit have shown that horses and ponies on restricted/poor grazing do not gain any weight when fed AntiLam. This means that it can also be used very successfully as part of a calorie-controlled diet when weight loss is required. This unique multi-supplement is so palatable that it can be fed out of the hand to horses and ponies at pasture to provide vital nutritional support. 20kg bag £34.95.

a choice of powder or pellet E

quimins’ Laminator is available as a powder or pellet, with both presentations created for the nutritional support of the laminae and hoof integrity. The supplement contains high levels of bio flavanoid hesperidin along with vitamin C and feverfew, which help to make the blood capillaries more elastic, supporting the flow of blood to the laminar corum. It also contains high levels of available zinc and biotin for hoof support, along with a host of other ingredients that have been carefully selected to support areas of the body that require it. Laminator is available in 1.2kg, 2.4kg and 3kg tubs, and prices start from £26.25. Most horses receive 50g per day, meaning 3kg will last for 60 days. For more information see www.equimins.com, email sales@equimins. com or call 01548 531770.

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21/02/2014 17:23

Horse or Pony prone to Laminitis? For the nutritional support of the Laminae and hoof integrity. Laminator is formulated with high levels of Hesperadin, a natural bioflavanoid which together with ascorbic acid helps to maintain the flow of blood into the laminar corum. High levels of Zinc Methionate, essential for strong keratin growth are included. LAMINATOR n Powder 3kg £59.95, 2.4kg £49.75, 1.2kg £26.25 n Pellets 3kg £61.50 n 3kg will last 60 days at maintenance

TESTIMONIAL I have been giving my 13 year old 17.2h dwb mare two scoops a day of your Flexijoint, and within a week she is a different horse, she is happy and moving like a 3 year old, and rode her and asked for collection and she was very willing, not been able to ask for it in 4 years, her sore back has gone and the elevation in her hind and front legs is amazing, she has gone through x-rays and bone scans costing thousands, vets said nothing wrong its in her head, was going to give up. Just want to say thank you and I have my horse back. Amazing product. Karina King FLEXIJOINT POWDER TUBS

n 600g £26.25 n 1kg £40.85 n 1.5kg £58.50 n 3kg £109.55 FLEXIJOINT LIQUID

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21/02/2014 17:23

Healthcare • Insurance

Dear Editor,

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HORSE FIRST WINNERS

HORSE FIRST

@horsefirst

’ve been an independent equine insurance agent since 2002 having close relationships with over nine reputable UK equine insurers and all the underwriting that goes along with setting up policies. I personally advise all my clients on a one to one basis to match policies to their needs. I also regularly consult with underwriters and insurers with the development of their products to meet current market demands. Equi Ads is a long established and highly regarded publication so I want to respond to the insurance article in the February edition. These are my concerns: Firstly, what do hamsters have to do with horses? ‘Her pet hamster had escaped and chewed a hole in the centre of the rug’. This comment concerns the Saddlery and Tack section of any equine policy. (I think) Most UK insurers stipulate tack needs to be kept in a five lever deadlocked building with steel bars on any windows for theft cover. Cover is for stolen damage or destroyed tack but policies have general exclusions including: Example one insurer: ‘Any amount if the saddlery and tack is destroyed by is damaged or destroyed by wear and tear or the actions of moths, insects, vermin, pests or any other cause that may happen slowly. Example Two insurer: ‘ Saddlery and tack being destroyed or damaged by wear and tear , moths mildew, insects, vermin, cleaning, dyeing or restoration’. These two are just common examples out of all UK insurers. People should be advised to read the relatively short policy wording booklet before they take out a policy. It can seem hard work but will in reality only take you five minutes. Regarding the third paragraph. All insurers stipulate that if your horse becomes unwell or injured during the policy period you need to inform your insurer as this could lead to non payment due to non disclosure. All insurers impose time limits as to placing a claim. It could be 60 days or 12 months from the onset date of the condition. You need to check when taking out the policy with your insurer or broker. Even if you do not claim for a condition there may be an exclusion placed after 12 months. Most UK equine policies only cover a condition for 12 months from the onset date so regardless of whether you claim or not it will show on your Veterinary Treatment History (VTH). When you make a claim the insurer will ask for print out from your vet (or all veterinary practices) since your ownership so it’s better to be up front about conditions that occur. You will have an easier time getting these conditions/ exclusions reviewed or narrowed down, depending on the likelihood of the condition reoccuring. Regarding the question of ‘insurable interest’. The insurers I use all ask for the name and address of the owner if the horse is out on loan. Either the owner or the loanee can be the policyholder. As long as the insurer knows this information it will not affect the payout on any claim. Often an insurer will write at point of insuring to inform any claim payout will be sent to them or the policyholder in the event of a valid Death or Theft claim. Similarly if the owner takes out public liability and then puts the horse out on loan the cover will normally apply to the loanee as well, or anyone riding with the policyholders permission. Please check with individual insurers to be sure though. Yes, I FULLY agree the loanee of a horse should be covered for Public Liability. I offer £2m PL on individual horses for £42.40 a year. Or join the BHS as a Gold Member. Basic cover is essential. Lindsay Watts states he ran his series of risks through an online insurance quotation service for an old horse worth £750. There is currently no comprehensive UK on line equine insurance comparison website. It’s not as simple to compare as say car insurance. The comparison sites I’m aware of usually only compare two or three insurers at most. Each horse is a unique risk determined by value, age, height, breed, activities used for, and the sections of cover required. Every insurer has differing underwriting requirements and sections of cover / excesses and policy wordings. I do agree with his comment that ‘ a good broker should make sure everything is correct’. Which I endeavour to do! If you can no longer work due to injury or illness you will need to have a specialist Personal Accident or Critical Illness policy. The normal Personal Accident (PA) section of a horse policy doesn’t cover loss of earnings or broken bones, only major things such as death, permanent disability or loss of limbs, eyesight and hearing. Typically PA sections of cover cost £10 annually for £10,000 benefit for anyone riding the horse with the policyholders permission. I can offer PA for loss of earnings if required from around £100 a year. Most people accept the inherent risk that horse riding entails. What alarms me is Lindsay chooses not to insure his horse as he does not leave the farm. If the horse (owned by him or in his care custody and control) caused damage to a person/ trespasser walking through a field or damage to property if it escaped from its field they would be held liable. If the horse escaped and caused a road accident or injured a third party they would be held liable. Public Liability insurance as a horse owner (or loanee) is critical. Kerry Andrews, Rolleston-on-Dove, Staffordshire www.equi-ads.com

21/02/2014 17:23

2011 'C

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21/02/2014 17:23 07/12/2011 20:50

Xxxxxxxxxx Healthcare

Dental disease: when left can be right and right can be wrong Ben Sturgeon, Bsc, BVM&S, Cert EP, MRCVS

t’s a curious fact that the molecules chiefly responsible for the respective smells of spearmint and caraway are exactly the same, except for one crucial difference. They’re mirror images of the same molecule. This feature in chemistry is known as chirality, from the Greek word cheir meaning hands. Your hands are chiral. Mirror images but you can’t superimpose one upon the other. Chirality crops up in all sorts of areas in nature. Most drugs typically comprise left and right handed versions in a mixture and it’s highly likely that only one version will be clinically effective whilst the other version hopefully harmless and excreted. But, at worst the chiral form may have side effects. This is exactly what happened with the drug Thalidomide in the late 1950’s. With the left hand version causing foetal deformities. What has this to do with teeth? Pretty much bugger all except a “sliding doors” look at the future or regrettable peer into the past. Recently I had a horse in the hospital with a chronic colic caused by a caecal impaction. Generally the condition is curable with a reasonable prognosis however, as proved to be the case here, treatment is intensive and long winded taking 5 days of repeated stomach tubing to eventually clear the blockage. In

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addition the horse had been losing weight prior to this episode, had had its feed changed, was rugged more and ridden less. Whilst hospitalized, as part of the examination, I checked its teeth and discovered marked periodontal disease with food pocketing, gingival recession, bone resorption and a foul halitosis that took you two steps backward. These findings, singularly were almost certainly enough to explain the entire history as well as the current clinical presentation. My bill was a few hundred pounds for the week but add in the owner’s change of feeds, rugs etc and loss of riding then the extrapolated costs were likely starting to become significant. The owner, to her credit had had the horse’s teeth done apparently regularly but was entirely unaware of the problems within the horses mouth. It is not uncommon to discuss abnormal findings with owners who wish to do nothing until or unless “they” recognize or perceive it to be a problem. I rarely have trouble with this because a vet’s role is to advise, not harass or force, and we do not carry the same aescaplian authority which makes a doctors word “law”. However, by the time a horse has developed clinical signs significant enough for an owner to be aware or to seek veterinary intervention the

rodney powell superﬂex Contour Body protector T

his new, lightweight body protector has been added to the Rodney Powell range. Of block foam construction, the Superflex Contour offers superior levels of flexibility and perfect contouring of the torso, allowing body heat to quickly penetrate the foam panels for maximum comfort, which is further enhanced by the absorbent lining and breathable properties. Features include a wipe clean outer, front zip fastening and adjustment at the shoulder and waist. Approved to BETA 2009 Level 3 and EN13158. Contact Westgate 01303 872277 for information or visit www.wefi.co.uk for stockists horse will likely have lived with the problem for many years and the owner undertaken, as was the case here, many management adjustments in an attempt to alleviate the changes and slow decline. Additionally, and again seen here, the end scenario may be an even more (continued on page 24)

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Xxxxxxxxxx Training

ClassiCal riDing - part two:

sHoUlDer-in – tHe gateway to ColleCtion anD mUCH more By Anne Wilson A brief history, biomechanics and uses of this important exercise.

n the first article of this series, we looked at some of the principles and ethos of classical riding. I now set out to describe a brief history and benefits of what is often described as the Alpha and Omega of all classical movements. It helps to understand the theory and reasons for something before one actually sets out to do it. Later in the series I will describe the aids and some of the things which can go wrong during the exercise. Leg-yield is often usefully used as a precursor to the true lateral work, but is not strictly a classical movement since it does not require bend, nor does it assist in weight transference to the hind quarters. Shoulder-in is the first of the true classical lateral movements that we teach the horse and is surely the most important. It is also the only one where the horse moves away from the bend (also as leg-yield). In all the subsequent lateral movements; half-pass, travers etc., the direction of travel is towards the bend. Shoulder-in prepares the horse for all the other lateral work. If you never get any further than shoulder-in, you will have helped the horse enormously and will have achieved an important goal. According to our classical history books, shoulder-in was first devised and practiced by the Englishman William Cavendish, Duke of Newcastle, in the 17th century. However, it was François Robichon de la Guérinière who had the insight and brilliant understanding to refine the movement into what we know today. He devised a way of using it down the track; keeping the quarters on the track and bringing the forehand inwards, whilst bending the horse from poll tail.

In this way he found that the shoulders were freed up in a way that no other exercise achieved. Where to perform shoulder-in The movement can be ridden anywhere in the school; on an oblique line across the diagonal, on a circle, as well as being ridden as shoulder-out (either on the circle or down the track). However, all of these positions in which to ride shoulderin, are more difficult to produce accurately and therefore are of less physical value to the horse. Guérinière’s brilliance lay in his understanding and use of the manége wall or fence which helps immensely in containing the horse’s quarters and facilitating true bend from poll to tail, which is required in all classical lateral movements. It is this bend which strengthens and flexes the horse, making him more ambidextrous. The hind leg action

Anne with Lucy-Lou showing a four-track shoulderin. Note the angle of the shoulders from the track and good bend throughout the body from poll to tail, with good crossing behind. Lucy is 26 years old - a testament to the strength and suppleness that comes with classical training. - Photo by Black Tent Photography - www.blacktent.co.uk

‘I CAN’T BE WITHOUT IT NOW’ wrote a subscriber to ‘TRACKING-UP’ published by In our current issue WHEN ‘NO’ SEEMS TO BE THE HARDEST WORD: Anne Wilson - FEEDING and NUTRITION, Susan McBane - DO HORSES LIKE TO PLEASE? Lesley Skipper - INTRODUCING LATERAL STEPS Anne Wilson - Extract from THE WARHORSE IN THE MODERN ERA Ann Hyland - WHY IS THE WALK A NEGLECTED PACE?, Charles de Kunffy - IS OUR PROTECTION AGAINST EQUINE FLU EFFECTIVE? PLUS - Veterinary Care and Management of Old Horses; Classical Riding Q&A; maggot wound therapy; winter worming; book reviews; comment and more. ‘Tracking-up’ is available quarterly for £5.17 per issue or £18.70 for a 4-issue subscription. Clearly print your name, address and ‘TUA22’ on the back of your cheque payable to ‘Tracking-up’ and post it to Anne Wilson, Park End House, Robins Folly, Thurleigh, Beds., MK44 2EQ.

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Equi_Ads_Mar_National_Rev.indd 20

As well as bend from poll to tail, the shoulderin requires that the horse cross his inside hind leg over in front of the outside hind. It is this inside hind leg which plays the major role of weight bearing as it advances under the body mass, propelling the movement sideways, away from the bend. It is this action, when practiced regularly and very gently to start with, on both reins, which strengthens the limbs of the hind legs; making them more flexible and staving off arthritis; in many cases actually helping to alleviate the symptoms. All riding can be damaging if not done correctly within the classical ethos. All good trainers understand this, whether they call themselves ‘classical’ or not. Many horses who (continued on page 30)

(continued from page 13) out on to lush spring pastures and also to strictly regulate any concentrate intake to no more than 1g starch/kg body weight/meal. Thus, for a 500kg horse fed a 30% starch concentrate no more than 500g starch should be fed per meal. This equates to 500/300=1.66kg concentrate. Overfeeding starch at any one meal could mean that there is an overflow of starch into the large intestine which could initiate an acidosis that can result in lowgrade laminitis. Animals that receive just high fibre diets or restricted grass intakes should receive supplementary vitamins and minerals to ensure a supply of essential nutrients. Currently there is grave concern that we will be facing a Type 2 diabetes epidemic in the human population. This is because there is so much childhood obesity arising through changed lifestyles and dietary practices. In other words, this obesity problem is the result of a combination of overfeeding and underexercising. By analogy we have similar problems in horses. These would disappear if we stopped our horses and ponies getting fat and gave them appropriate exercise. Of course, the key factor for both humans and horses is to regulate food intake strictly to need; no type 2 diabetes and no laminitis! In conclusion, horse owners should have their animals screened for EMS (hyperinsulinaemia) and PPID (excess ACTH). If it turns out that the animal is diagnosed as having one or both conditions then there is a clear strategy (see above) to follow to avoid the animal suffering from laminitis. If it is that your animals are disease-free then feed management is a lot simpler. All you have to do is to follow normal feed guidelines such as change diet gradually, do not give big starch-rich meals, control grass intake to avoid obesity and lastly of course, do not gallop your horse down tarmac roads. [Xenophon observed that “Diseases are easier to cure at the start than after they have become chronic and have been wrongly diagnosed.”] www.equi-ads.com

21/02/2014 17:23

Canâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t turnout? Cut back the calories, not the nutrients

BaiLeyS Lo-CaL BaLanCer Feed by the mugful alongside your forage v More nutrients (not calories) than a couple of handfuls of mix or cubes v Low calorie, low starch, non-heating v Provides a balance of nutrients to support healthy hoof growth and well-being v Quality protein builds and maintains muscle tone v Packed full of essential vitamins, Bioplex minerals and antioxidants v Simple and cost effective v Feed on its own or add to reduced amounts of hard feed Tel: 01371 850 247

e-mail: info@baileyshorsefeeds.co.uk

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Equi_Ads_Mar_National_Rev.indd 21

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Healthcare Xxxxxxxxxx • Feeding

preventing laminitis by Dr tom shurlock of British Horse Feeds L aminitis can be triggered by several factors which include mechanical damage, blood flow parameters and metabolic cues. We know how hindgut malfunction can affect blood flow and metabolism and what causes hindgut disruption. Increasingly, the possibility of background conditions such as IR, Cushing’s and Equine Metabolic Disorder, may predispose a horse to laminitis. And the common thread running through these conditions is the disruption of normal carbohydrate digestion and metabolism. Metabolic dysfunction means that absorbed

sugars may not be broken down in the correct pathways leading to increased levels of lactate in the blood. Hindgut malfunction means that starch and sugars, fed at levels too great for the small intestine to digest, swamp the hindgut and are fermented by bacteria carried down from the small intestine, producing end products that change the microenvironment, killing the normal bacterial populations. Increases of amines and nitrites cause constriction of the veins furthest from the heart (i.e the hooves). Increases of lactate open up hindgut transfer of endotoxins and also add to lactate blood levels. Inflammatory agents, restricted blood flow, oxygen reduction and increased lactate all add to inflame the lamellar and instigate laminitis. Dietary cues that exacerbate this include oversupply of nutrients (non-fibre nutrients that are not digested and absorbed in the small intestine are fermented in the hindgut potentially disrupting the microbial environment there), and moderate starch & sugar levels in those horses that suffer background conditions such as IR. It has been reported that the total daily intake of starch and sugars should not exceed 20% of the feed in normal healthy horses and half that amount in laminitic

Applied Equine Podiatry Workshops Horse Owner, Trainer, Farrier, Veterinarian, and all other care providers will beneﬁt from learning how to implement the principles and methods of Applied Equine Podiatry, the 21st Century Alternative to the Conventional Farrier Practice. Learn, Apply, Achieve! Horse Owners and Trainers: learn how to evaluate the health of your horse’s feet. Learn how hoof balance affects overall performance, both bio-mechanically and neurologically. Veterinarians: In this workshop you will be exposed to the latest theories and principles in Equine Podiatry. You will explore Innovative approaches to hoof and horse evaluation, establishing goals, and establishing a sound hoof care program. Applied Equine Podiatry offers new insight into foot function and Physiological Sequencing. Farriers: Improve your powers of observation to the beneﬁt of the Achieve Health and Performance horse. You will learn new skills that will make yourself even more indispensable to the Trainer, and Horse Owner. Increase your skills in obtaining superior and repeatable results. Take the guess work out of your practice by learning the why of it. Horse Owners: learn to become pro-active in your approach to hoof care. Learn to recognise deformities and problems before they become insurmountable. Educational Highlights: • Explore the latest techniques in Modern Hoof Care. • Participate in an in depth dissection of the equine foot • Learn how to achieve the greatest potential from your equine partner • Learn proper evaluation- The key to implementing appropriate care • Add the valuable tools of Applied Equine Podiatry to your ever growing tool box. • Learn new ways to safely work under even the most demanding of horses • Receive Hands-On instruction in the application of the Methods and Principles of Applied Equine Podiatry

Where: Sevenoaks, Kent When: March 22nd – 26th, 2014 9am to 5pm For further information contact: Lucy Sexton, DAEP Phone: 07738 443780 Email: lsext@me.com

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animals. Likewise it is not a good idea to oversupply protein as this is an additional factor. The problem is finding feedstuffs that have less than 10% starch/sugar and low protein, especially in the spring where new grass has levels of 30% and 25% respectively. Restrictive grazing can help but there is then the danger of starving the horse! Superfibres may be the answer. Typically they are low in sugars and high in readily fermentable fibres, so can provide high energy feeds without the accompanying starch. Those based on sugar beet have additional benefits. They have moderate but highly digestible protein levels so hindgut flooding is unlikely, the lowest sugar levels (unmolassed) you are likely to find and, because their pectins are washed out in the horse’s stomach opening up the matrix for digestive enzymes, these sugars and oils are easily absorbed. Both Speedi-Beet and Fibre-Beet, more so than products based on soya hulls for example, have fibre profiles comparable to grass, lower but more digestible protein, and sugar/starch levels substantially below the “laminitic threshold”. Direct substitution on a wet basis can reduce at risk grass intake, or reduce cereal based hard feeds and help maintain starch and sugar intake at levels low enough to be suitable for the laminitic. For more information on Fibre-Beet or Speedi-Beet please contact British Horse Feeds on 01765 680300 or visit www.britishhorsefeeds.com.

Hoof scan V

eterinary Thermal Imaging (VTI) offers a range of different scans, including a hoof scan that can be used to visually map the heat patterns around the horse’s hoof. When a horse or pony is suffering from an episode of laminitis, the blood flow increases to the hoof, directly to the compromised laminae, resulting in an increased temperature and clear digital pulse. Early intervention in laminitis is key to a successful prognosis, and with VTI’s technology being 40 times more sensitive than the human hand at detecting increased heat, regular mapping of the feet can make all the difference in detecting problems early enough and getting prompt veterinary attention. VTI’s scans can be used for many reasons, including hoof problems. A hoof scan costs £40 per pair of hooves plus travel. Veterinary Thermal Imaging (VTI) is delighted to announce that Jo Welsby has joined its expanding team of thermographers, and will be covering the county of Hampshire. Jo comes to VTI from a scientific background and is a Biomedical Scientist with an MSc in Sports Science, a PGCert in Clinical Chemistry and a PGDip in Health Informatics. In addition, she has experience with and an interest in all things equine and is a qualified canine body worker with skills in acupressure and myofascial release (MFR). To find out more, see www.veterinarythermal-imaging.com www.equi-ads.com

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Xxxxxxxxxx Healthcare • News (continued from page 18)

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significant presentation with potentially life threatening consequences. Additionally still, the remedial therapy may be now either more invasive, technically complicated, laden with complications and yes costly, or worse, unsuitable due to the severity and nature of changes. Such attitudes are not just limited to dental disease but all walks of life. I am spectacularly bad with money, leaving things until they absolutely must be done and then leaving it some more. I have no doubt this costs me and has cost me significantly more over the years. There is an important difference however. Money and materials can be treated as a means to an ends, thrown away even, forgotten about. A car, a window, a house can be forgotten about with no moral angst if ignored; or fixed simply just to be able to do a job. An animal, any animal is entirely different however. To fix or treat is not simply to provide a means to an ends, i.e. to be ridden and we can’t just throw it away because it is “broken”. It goes beyond this, to a moral responsibility, to a set of human core values that life is precious and that those in our care depend upon and deserve our attention. Let me finish with a final sliding door example of this. Yesterday I visited a horse I had first seen over a year ago. The horse was a very skinny Thoroughbred, 16 years old, on a bunch of feeds and additives, wearing three rugs and rarely ridden. The horse had a severe parrot mouth with many abnormalities along it’s molars; diastema, gingival recession and displacements. The horse resented having its teeth “done” and as a result the historical “rasping” barely touched the surface and the owner was nervous about having too much done. With gentle coercion and explanation I addressed each problem on two occasions, three months apart. Without singing my praises and whilst congratulating the owner on overcoming her fear the horse is now transformed. His body condition score improved from a two out of ten to a six. From eating a miserable looking gruel to existing on normal hard feed and enjoying hay. From needing daily rugs changes to having just one rug. From being unridden or being unrideable to heading out four times a week. Faith and courage to think and believe things can be better and then to act is al that it took. Just as we can carry on down one path in our ideas and attitudes, it is just possible to look in the mirror, see the same thing but do something entirely different.

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Buy online at tensupplements.co.uk or call 01908 311010 for more information. Terms & Conditions Offer applies to any 1 x 30 day’s supply tub only. If there is more than 1 product in the basket then offer will be applied to most expensive product only. Offer available to anyone who signs up for an account with T.E.N. (or existing account holders). Cannot be used in conjunction with any other offer.

24 | March 2014

Equi_Ads_Mar_National_Rev.indd 24

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21/02/2014 17:23

Xxxxxxxxxx Healthcare

new Hoof balm E

quine America Hoof Balm is a super concentrated blend of natural oils – Coconut, Avocado, Jojoba and Eucalyptus - that shine, moisturise, nourish and protect the hoof, whilst still letting it breathe. They are beneficial to the health and nourishment of hooves and enable the delivery of moisture, nutrients and protection deep into the inner layers of the hoof whilst providing bacterial and anti-fungal protection. It’s the ideal product to use all year round - in dry conditions it provides excellent moisturising properties, whilst in winter it provides a water barrier against wet conditions while continually letting the hoof breathe. Equine America Hoof Balm is very concentrated – a small amount will go a long way. For optimum hoof health, use in conjunction with Equine America Hoof Powder. Available in black and clear. 500ml RRP £9.99. Telephone 01403 255809www.equine-america.co.uk Equine America Hoof Powder Plus. Ideal for any horse or pony with cracked or brittle hooves resulting in shoes being lost regularly. Hoof Powder Plus is a daily supplement containing ingredients, including 25mg of Biotin per serving, to stimulate hoof growth and support quality horn. It is essential for those breeds with slow growing or flat feet which, inevitably, experience difficulties in shoeing as well as damaged weakened horn. 454gm RRP £24.99, 908gm RRP £45.50 Telephone 01403 255809 www.equine-america.co.uk

electro-Bar L

ikit Products have launched a new sports bar for horses. The Electro-Bar combines key electrolytes with glucose and peppermint oil to provide a quick, easy and palatable way to administer these important body salts to working horses and ponies, before or after exertion. Glucose and electrolyte gels, drinks and powders are widely used by human athletes during training and competition but until now there has never been a handy or practical equivalent for equines. The new Electro-Bar is manufactured in the popular Likit Bar format, meaning that two to four pieces can be given before or after vigorous exercise. The re-sealable pocket-sized pack makes the product extremely convenient, while the palatable minty taste ensures good acceptance levels and encourages consumption where other forms of electrolyte supplementation may be rejected by the horse. Contact Likit Products on 01655 750523 or visit www.likit.co.uk for further information. The Likit Electro-Bar comes in a 90g re-sealable pack and costs £1.20

www.equi-ads.com

Equi_Ads_Mar_National_Rev.indd 25

Rebecca Howard and Riddle Master pictured en route to third place at the 2013 CIC three star Barbury International Horse Trials, were crowned Canadian Equestrian of the Year and Canadian Bred Horse of the Year respectively at the Equine Canada Annual Awards Gala.

new sponsors for dressage

OPSPEC, are the new sponsor of the British Dressage Intermediate II Championship. Horse and rider combinations have the chance to qualify for the Championship at eight prestigious British Dressage Premier League shows around the country from March through to July. Katy Mickle told Equi-Ads: “We are delighted to be supporting British Dressage and are looking forward to sponsoring the Intermediate II Championships. Our team of equine advisors will be on hand at the qualifiers to provide feeding advice and support.

march 2014 | 25

21/02/2014 17:23

Healthcare • Training

Get More from your Riding Lessons

How to help your riding instructor to help you by Caitlin Collins

hatever sort of riding you do, it’s true to say that the better you ride, the more you and your horse will enjoy yourselves. And in my work in confidence-coaching, I find that the problem for many riders who believe they have a problem with confidence actually lies in their limited riding skills. They’re scared because they feel unsafe, and that’s because they really are unsafe – their limited riding abilities are putting them at risk. In addition, many problems with ‘naughty’ horses can be resolved by addressing the skills of their riders. So lessons are not just for beginners; improving your riding is important for any rider. The ideal instructor

While you can learn a lot from books and the internet, nothing beats real-life hands-on personal instruction. It’s important that

you find a suitable instructor who is right for you and your horse. It’s a rare person who has the multi-skills of understanding and getting along with both horses and humans, riding well herself, and being able to teach others. If you’ve found someone like this, thank your stars and hold on tight to him or her! Let’s take a more detailed look at some of the attributes such an ideal teacher would have. • She would be kind, encouraging and easy to talk to, with a good sense of humour. Humour is often overlooked as an important quality for effective teaching. A joke works on several levels: laughter relaxes you; it serves as a pattern interruption, which means it interrupts a train of thought or sequence of habitual behaviours and frees you to try something different; and it helps you to enjoy yourself. It’s

The Healthy Way to Boost Fitness and Performance G

etting your horse fit for early season competitions is always difficult, but never more so when the weather makes even getting out of the stable a challenge. Giving your horse high energy feeds may provide them with a temporary boost, but there is no shortcut to fittening and this approach is likely to cause difficult behaviour in sharper horses. And with so many horses having to be stabled for lengthy periods, it is more important than ever to maintain a healthy, low energy, high fibre diet. What you need is something which you can feed which helps improve stamina in lethargic and sharper horses alike and that does so by genuinely helping to improve fitness and work capability without any detrimental effects. Nupafeed Staying Power is a unique daily liquid supplement which combines L-carnitine with MAH® magnesium. These nutrients work in synergy to improve delivery of energy substrates to cells and the efficiency of energy production. Allowing the body to work more effectively means delayed fatigue, better muscle performance and improved recovery, with no negative consequences or heating. Nupafeed Staying Power is perfect for any period of work likely to cause fatigue, but is especially useful during the fittening period when the body is adapting to take on new levels of work. Feeding Staying Power is advantageous for both the slow collected work needed for dressage and the cardio fitness needed for eventing (heavy going is surely guaranteed!). Nupafeed Staying Power is not available in shops, please contact us to find out more or to order: T: 01438 861 900 E: info@nupafeed.net www.nupafeed.co.uk www.equi-ads.com

Equi_Ads_Mar_National_Rev.indd 26

24/02/2014 10:46

Feeding • Training also good for your horse: horses learn early on that tense, grim humans are dangerous, while relaxed, happy ones are safer and pleasanter to be around. • She would be willing to listen to you and also to your horse. Many instructors teach lessons according to their own agenda, without asking you what you want to learn. Even if you tell them, they don’t listen. And if your horse says, ‘Look, I’m really struggling with this,’ they don’t listen to him either. • She would be emotionally stable, patient, and not prone to sarcasm or tantrums. An atmosphere of ill- temper is not conducive to learning for either horse or human. • She would be knowledgeable, experienced and competent, and willing to admit when she doesn’t know something or has made

a mistake. You and your horse need to feel that you’re in the safe hands of someone who knows what she’s doing – and is big enough to own up when she’s out of her depth. • She would be able to communicate her instructions clearly, so you can understand them. It takes a special skill for someone who is herself a good rider to be able to identify exactly how she does something, so she can tell you how to do it too. And she needs to be aware of more than just the techniques; she also needs to be able to work with the emotional and mental aspects of both the horse and the rider. • She would be careful with regard to the safety of you and your horse. This sounds obvious but, even in these days of heightened awareness of ‘health and safety’, (continued on page 31)

Blue Chip’s original native B

lue Chip Feed is pleased to announce the launch of their unique new feed balancer Original Native, specifically designed to meet the nutritional needs of Native Ponies. Original Native contains a tailored level of probiotic to help maintain Native ponies’ natural condition, helping to promote a healthy digestive system without altering their condition. Original Native contains a high quality protein that helps build a strong topline and good outline. With additional oils and organic zinc, Original Native helps to promote a strong mane and tail, improving the quality of the hair and therefore reducing breakages. The oils found in Original Native will leave your Native ponies coat soft as silk with a sheen guaranteed to turn heads. Blue Chip’ s Original Native is the only feed balancer on the market made just for Native ponies- don’t let your Native pony be the one to miss out! Original Native comes in a 15kg sack, lasting your pony approximately 38 days. RRP £32.00. For more information please visit www.bluechipfeed.com or call: 0114 266 6200.

Horslyx ambassadors are chosen!

orslyx have developed a new Ambassador Scheme and selected six budding amateur riders to represent Horslyx for 12 months. They selected their final six riders based on their passion and dedication to equestrianism, together with their commitment to feeding the ‘Horslyx’ way. The Horslyx Ambassador scheme was open to riders above the age of 16 years old who were competing in any discipline. Each Ambassador will now receive branded clothing and equestrian equipment, a supply of Horslyx to last the year and nutritional support whenever necessary. With Ambassadors from varying disciplines around the country Horslyx are proud to introduce to the team Hampshire based eventing enthusiast Nicki Strong, dedicated Shropshire based event rider Bonnie Fishburn, keen Sheffield based amateur Kim Chapman, talented Whitby based dressage rider Cara Shardlow, determined Reading based Para rider Katherine Cooksley and devoted Derbyshire based showing producer Jane Steeples. Horslyx Product and Sales Manager Gillian Neill told Equi-Ads. “This is the first time we have run anything like this and we were thrilled with the response,” she says. “All six riders demonstrated a fantastic understanding of Horslyx and I am fully confident that they will all be the perfect representatives when out and about. We can’t wait to work with them over the next year.”For more information visit www.nedz.co.uk or call 01254 677 762 to find your nearest stockist.

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Equi_Ads_Mar_National_Rev.indd 27

21/02/2014 17:23

Healthcare

A Practical Guide to... When to Call the Vet By Fiona Reed

o continue on from our February article about First Aid, we now go on to when it would be right or necessary to call the Vet. This again, will depend largely on how confident you are about dealing with the situation, your experience and capability. Not every accident, ailment or crisis will require veterinary attention, but the ultimate decision as to whether or not to make that callout, is down to you, the owner. Most Veterinary Surgeons will be happier to attend and only need to give reassurance and advice, than not to be consulted early enough, when a better outcome could have been reached with earlier treatment. It is this, “do I, or do I not call the vet?” question that we hope to help you with in this article. Any deviation from your horse’s normal behaviour and demeanour needs attention, either by you, or a vet. It is therefore essential you know your horse well enough to know what it out of character for him. This could be something as simple as not eating a feed .... if you always eats up fully and immediately then one morning will not look at his feed then alarm bells should immediately ring, whereas with other fussy feeders this would not

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necessarily raise concern. There are three different types of call you are likely to make to your vet .... the Critical Emergency where you need a visit regardless of day of the week or night or day, the Urgent Emergency where you can leave your call ‘til later in the day and first thing the following morning and the Minor Emergency visit that although very much required, can be undertaken during regular working hours in a scheduled appointment.

Critical Emergencies - Contact Your Veterinarian Immediately

The following circumstances are potentially serious and possibly lifethreatening • Any rapid onset of severe lameness where the horse cannot weight bear, and any suspicion of bone fractures • Abnormal breathing; rapid or distressed • Signs of severe colic; rolling, pawing, looking at belly, sweating, loss of appetite, lack of droppings • Wound with heavy bleeding, particularly if blood is very bright red indicating arterial bleeding • Staggering, lack of co-ordination or behavioural change, indicating neurological dysfunction • Inability to stand • Eye injury, particularly where horse will not open eye • Acute laminitis • Azoturia, also known as Monday Morning Disease, Set Fast or Tying Up • Abnormal vital signs: temperature over 102°F (39°C), pulse over 80 beats per minute and elevated breathing while at rest • Injuries to vital structures such as eyes, genitals or joints • Wounds that need stitching • Wounds that are near and possibly involving a joint • Puncture Wounds • Horse been seen to suspected to have eaten a known poison or toxin • Broodmare not produced foal after 30 minutes. Many vets are actually quite have to be called as soon as a mare starts foaling so they are on site in the event of a bad foaling, and if all goes well are happy just to check the foal over and see that everything is in

order. When things go wrong with a foaling it goes wrong very rapidly, so most novice or first breeders feel more confident with a vets presence. Check this out with your veterinary practice in advance and give them some prior warning of your mares due date Urgent Emergencies - Contact Your Vet That Same Day or the Next Morning

The following conditions need prompt attention, but can however usually wait until normal visiting hours • udden onset of lameness, but where horse can still weight bear • uperficial trauma injury or wound without heavy bleeding provided away from eyes, genitals, joints etc • Chronic laminitis • Blood in urine, or change in colour of urine • Diarrhea when very liquid and/or foul smelling • Any part of the body is swollen and hot to the touch • Refusal to eat, particularly if normally eats well • Straining to urinate or pass droppings... if stressed as well then treat as critical emergency • Slight rise in temperature, respiration or pulse rate • Suspicion of infectious disease Minor Emergencies – Make a Scheduled Appointment With Your Vet

• • • •

Slight lameness Persistent lameness Skin Rashes Chronic diarrhea or very loose droppings

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• Reduced appetite but otherwise showing no symptoms of ill health • Loss of condition • Discharge from eyes without pain or loss of vision • Mild difficulty in chewing, or quidding • Mild nasal discharge without heavy breathing or any sign of fever When making the call to your vet, have as much information as possible including temperature, pulse and respiration rates. The information you give them, the better and easier it will be for them to make a calculated judgement as to which of the above categories they put your horse and whether they would come to visit him immediately or arrange for the next day or another time. Most vets are quite happy to answer your call at any time of day or night, and discuss your horse’s symptoms. They can then be part of the decision making, thus taking some of the stress and worry from you, putting you at your ease. Your vet will also instruct you on what to do while you wait for him, whether it be move the horse to a stable, rug it up, remove hay, apply a pressure bandage .... whatever may help your particular emergency. Hopefully this article will have given you a bit of help as to what point you may need to call your vet. Owning horses puts a heavy weight of responsibilities on our shoulders. We all tend to be very heavily emotionally involved with our equines and is therefore very hard to watch them ill or in pain. It is essential that in event of an emergency that we stay calm and practical. Keep details and contact numbers for your insurance, and make yourself quite aware of what you are covered for in both procedure and finance. Your vet will find this information useful in planning any treatment. I hope your equine friends all stay fit and healthy and that you will only see your veterinary surgeon for routine vaccinations and check ups. www.equi-ads.com

21/02/2014 17:23

Insurance

Can you afford not to insure your horse? 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.

new arrival! One of the most exciting and highly anticipated occasions. All ‘normal’ social occasions have been obliterated from the diary and they have been replaced with early-o’clock starts for feeding, cleaning and general preparation for spending endless hours with your new family member. Of course, we are referring to your new horse! You may have spent endless hours arranging a vet/farrier/dentist/ instructor/horse whisperer/horse behaviourist/horse psychic (delete as necessary dependent on whether you bought a retired Blackpool beach donkey or a ‘too crazy to race’ ex-racer as a project horse) and remortgaged your house to buy new tack and equipment to make sure you both look the part for your chosen discipline, but have you thought about the one thing that could ensure you have access to the best treatment options available for your precious equine? Have you considered what you would do if your horse had colic and needed emergency life-saving surgery? Or if he went lame and needed a costly MRI scan to determine the exact diagnosis? You may think this is unlikely to happen to you, but what if it did? With the rising cost of veterinary treatment and advances in equine medicine, can you afford not to insure your horse? So, where do you start? The good news is insurance is not as complicated as some think. It can be a little like building a house – start with your basic foundations (cover for death of the animal or loss by theft or straying) and then add the building blocks such as veterinary fees (an essential component in most people’s view). Finally, chose your ‘fixtures and fittings’ such as public liability or saddlery and tack cover, for example. For ‘all mod cons’ you may consider adding loss of use cover to the policy. In the coming months we will look at some of these covers in closer detail using case studies to highlight the importance and utilization of each. When obtaining a quote it is important that you are honest about all aspects of your horse. This might include the activities you are going to be doing with your horse; even if you only hunt once a year when you feel the urge to spend a day hedge-hopping with a free mud facial thrown in for the pleasure, you still need to inform your insurers of this so they can accurately quote for your needs. Similarly, any previous illness or injury that your horse has suffered from should be made aware to your insurers as they may decide to apply exclusions or limitations to the policy. You might think that you are better off keeping details of medical conditions quiet, but complete disclosure at inception of the policy will assist in making the policy as transparent as possible and could ensure you do not get caught out by assuming you are covered for treatment under your insurance, when in fact you may be unable to claim (it’s always better to know about this before the £4,000 bill lands on your doorstep!). Speak to your insurer or broker for assistance, they are there to help and should offer the best service they can. Although not a legal requirement, insurance should be looked at as an essential item to add to the check-list when acquiring a new horse, rather than an additional expense that can be avoided. It may just save your horse one day; is that a risk you want to take? If you have a topic you would like to see covered or a question you would like to put to Laura please contact bob@equiads.net with your comments to see if your topic can feature in a forthcoming issue! www.equi-ads.com

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21/02/2014 17:23

Training the title suggests – a mini-version of the shoulder-in. It is a good way to introduce the exercise. It will require only a small degree of displacement of the shoulder from the track, and there will be no crossing of the legs. It will also require minimal bend from poll to tail and will not really help the horse to transfer weight back onto his hind legs. Nevertheless it is a good way to begin teaching this exercise. The degree of displacement of the shoulder from the track can be gradually increased as the horse’s understanding and physical ability increase. A word of caution here – this is only of any value if the outside shoulder can be seen to be taken away from the track, however slightly. If the shoulders are still firmly on the track, then the only thing being achieved is ‘neck-in’ which is actually detrimental as it throws weight onto the outside shoulder. A Three Track Shoulder-in

This is the most usually practiced shoulder-in and is what is normally required in the competition arena. The degree of shoulder displacement from the track should be about 30 degrees. It is called ‘a three track’ because the horse’s footfalls should fall on three tracks. The rider’s upper body should be turned inwards to the same degree, with the rider looking the same way as the horse’s head; with his inside seatbone in advance of the outside, also in the same way the horse is obliged to advance his inside hip. (There will be more on rider position and aids later in this series). A Four Track Shoulder-in

Elizabeth Tate with Elliot showing a good three-track shoulder-in. Elliot is in his twenties and obviously very supple - Photo by Black Tent Photography - www. blacktent.co.uk (continued from page 20) have been properly and gently prepared in the classical fashion from an early age, and who perform shoulder-in regularly, never suffer from any appreciable stiffness. Of course, the opposite can be true if classical principles are not adhered to. In other words, if people push the horse too fast and at too young an age, without giving the joints time to strengthen, then this can cause joints and tendons to fail. In classical horsemanship the aim is to strengthen, without stressing any part of the horse’s anatomy. It is best to use moderation in all things; never do anything too soon, too quickly or for too long. The horse should never be forced or coerced in any way. He should only 30 | March 2014

Equi_Ads_Mar_National_Rev.indd 30

be asked or encouraged. There are even times when the horse has to be saved from himself, such as the Iberian breeds who find lateral work comes very naturally at an early age. The rider/trainer should not assume that because the horse finds it easy and enjoys it, that he should be allowed to advance too quickly or to perform fast lateral paces for too long – moderation in everything is the key phrase. The front leg action

The front legs should also cross, inside over outside, lifting the forehand upwards and transferring some weight to the hind legs. Shoulder-fore

Shoulder-fore consists of what

This is a more advanced exercise and requires a greater degree of displacement from the track. It also requires more bend from poll to tail, and hereby lies a pitfall:- sometimes the horse straightens his body in order to attain the extra degree of displacement from the track. When this happens the benefit of the exercise, i.e. weight transference to the hindquarters and strengthening/ flexing of the back, loins, etc. are seriously compromised. However, when performed correctly a four-track shoulder-in is a good, advanced exercise. Leg-yield down the track can be counter-productive

Sometimes horses will even offer this greater degree of shoulder-in, in order to straighten their body and avoid the extra effort involved in bending and taking weight back. Many riders are fooled into thinking that they have achieved a high level when in fact they have not. What they are in fact achieving is merely a leg-yield down the track. That is one of the reasons that I am against the

practice of teaching leg-yield down the track; because it is teaching the horse to position himself in the wrong way. Shoulder-in and Collection

To perform shoulder-in correctly requires a good degree of collection, i.e. weight transference to the hindquarters and lightening of the forehand. Without collection these things are unobtainable. However, shoulder-in itself teaches these things to the horse and prepares him for collection. Therefore when first practicing the exercise one should not expect perfection. It is a case of one thing helps the other. At first he will only be capable of a couple of strides of true shoulderin and that’s fine. Very gradually his strength and flexibility will build up and he will be able to perform more steps (always at walk in the beginning). As his ability to perform shoulder-in increases, so will his ability to collect, and so on. I believe that this exercise is THE most important one to master on the road to true lightness and collection. IN CONCLUSION

Shoulder-in is a hugely beneficial exercise which benefits the horse physically and when practiced with discretion sets him up for a long and sound life. It contributes towards horse and rider harmony, teaching him to move away from the rider’s inside leg. Whilst there are other ways of preparing for collection, such as quarter-pirouette, changes of stride length, transitions etc., these will all be rendered much more obtainable when shoulder-in has been mastered. Also shoulder-in is very beneficial when carried out in walk, so there is no need to stress or overheat the horse on a hot day. Actually, it can be argued that in the slower pace of walk, the inside hind doing the major part of the work, actually works harder, since it has to push and hold the weight for longer. This is rather like a weight lifter, building up his muscle strength by slowly lifting the weight rather than risking injury by doing it quickly. Next month we will be looking at the aids for simple leg-yield, as a preparatory exercise towards shoulder-in. Anne Wilson is a freelance classical riding trainer, based in Bedfordshire; trained with Sylvia Loch and holder of the Classical Riding Club Gold Award Certificate – Phone 01234 772401 or email: annewilsondressage@ hotmail.co.uk www. classicalridingannewilson.com See Anne’s book ‘Riding Revelations – Classical Training from the Beginning’ available from www. blacktent.co.uk www.equi-ads.com

21/02/2014 17:23

Training (continued from page 27) it’s astonishing how casual some instructors are about the safety of their students. I have come across some hair-raising incidents, one of the worst cases being the Pony Club instructor giving a jumping lesson to children whose ponies were strapped up in side reins to prevent them putting their heads down to eat grass! • She would be willing and able to demonstrate when necessary, which might include riding your horse. If the instructor is afraid to get on your horse because she doesn’t think he is safe to ride, then she shouldn’t be encouraging you to get on; she should be helping you to take the necessary steps to prepare him for riding. How to help your instructor to coach you more effectively

Taking lessons from a riding instructor introduces some interesting and sometimes conflicting dynamics. On the one hand, she is the expert in a position of relative authority, which can make you feel rather junior and disempowered. On the other hand, you are employing her, so you’re actually the boss, and it’s absolutely vital that you take responsibility for what is happening and are clear as to what is and is not OK with you. You owe it to yourself and your horse to never let an instructor persuade you into doing anything you’ll regret, such as causing your horse distress. It helps your instructor if you set aside a few minutes at the start of your lesson to chat about what you want. You need to consider overall aims regarding your particular interests, strengths and areas for improvement, and also specific aims for this particular lesson. A good instructor will also help you to clarify your goals and explore options. It helps your instructor, during the lesson, if you tell her when either you or your horse needs a break. Also, for heaven’s sake tell her immediately if you can’t hear her clearly, if you don’t understand an instruction, or if for any reason you can’t comply with an instruction. It also helps your instructor if you stop a few minutes before the end of the lesson so you have time to go over what you’ve learned and how you can move forward with it. Make sure you’ve understood everything correctly, and ask her to set you homework. Although we hope you’ll find your lessons useful and enjoyable, so you can wholeheartedly say, ‘Thanks – that was super!’, there are bound to be occasions when things don’t go so well. You may need to find ways to give feedback to your instructor about her teaching, and www.equi-ads.com

Equi_Ads_Mar_National_Rev.indd 31

even to disagree with her, without causing offence. There’s a ‘feedback formula’ much used in the world of coaching: tell the person about something you liked, then mention what you’d like to be different, then tell her about something else you liked. Phrase the ‘sandwich filling’ positively, and take responsibility for your part in what happened. For example, saying: ‘I wonder if next lesson we could spend more time explaining each exercise; I felt we went quite quickly today and I got a bit lost,’ is unlikely to upset her and set her thinking she’s a rubbish teacher. If you need to disagree about something, you can do that equally constructively; for example: ‘I’m not happy about the idea of putting him in a stronger bit; I’d like to find another way of doing it. I’d like to put the work in to improve my riding and give him more schooling, and I’d love it if you’d help us with that.’ It’s important to remember that a good teacher should encourage you, not intimidate you. If you’re too frightened to talk to her, maybe you need to find a more approachable instructor. Alexander Technique instructors

Many riding instructors – and many riders – focus on improving the horse. It can be a revelation to have a lesson from a riding teacher who is trained in the Alexander Technique. Such a teacher concentrates on you – your position, balance and breathing. You’re going along, almost ignoring the horse – and then suddenly, as though miraculously, you notice that he is moving differently – more freely, better balanced, and much, much more happily! I remember watching one particularly striking Alexander Technique demonstration. Two women had bravely volunteered to be the guinea pigs; they came

into the arena on big dressage-type horses and rode round looking stiff and inelegant, with a lot of pushing and pulling going on. When the teacher stopped them and asked each rider about herself and her riding, each woman replied with a list of her horse’s faults – while saying nothing at all about herself. The teacher asked them to get off their horses and to sit in chairs. One at a time, she adjusted each woman’s posture in the chair. Then she put the first rider back on the horse and began to adjust her posture in the saddle, shortening the stirrups a couple of holes. As the horse walked around, the teacher made tiny adjustments to his rider. The horse began to walk more freely. The worry lines on his face smoothed out and he started to smile. With the rider so focused on her own position that she was oblivious to the horse, the audience started to applaud as the horse walked increasingly beautifully, the rider sitting in perfect balance with his movement. There was no more pushing and pulling. It was like magic! Then the teacher did the same thing with the other rider. More magic – and another happy, smiling horse was enabled to move freely to express his natural beauty.

Coaching with friends

Lastly, don’t underestimate the power of a little help from your friends. Even people who don’t ride at all can help by reminding you of things you need to remember. You can give them a list of prompts to call out, such as reminders to breathe down into your tummy, or look up, or soften your hands, or bring your attention to your seat, or – most important of all – to relax and smile and enjoy yourself. And if you can find a helper with a good store of jokes, well, then you’re really laughing! Heroic Hackers by Caitlin Collins

Caitlin Collins has a lifetime’s experience with horses: She started riding at the age of three, gaining the BHSAI qualification at 18, and from then on worked professionally with horses in America and the UK; in more recent years she has focused on training in classical dressage and exploring natural and alternative approaches to horsemanship. Cait has 35 years experience of Buddhist meditation practice; and is a qualified counsellor, NLP Trainer and experienced coach. Her book, Heart to Heart with Your Horse – the Horse-Lover’s Guide to SelfCoaching, is available from Amazon.

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Caitlin Collins Improve your relationship with your horse – so that both of you can enjoy your riding more! New book out now on Amazon www.theconfidentridercoach.com

Dear EQUI-ADS,

live on the Salisbury Plain and my horse has been badly affected by eating sycamore seeds. Can you offer any advice please. Jason Our friendly vet Peter Fenton says;

There is now evidence that there is a strong link between the ingestion of sycamore (Acer pseudoplatanus) seeds by horses and the development of the catastrophic muscle disease atypical myopathy. This is a disease that affects the horses’ muscles including the diaphragm and heart and carries a very high mortality rate approaching 89% of cases. In a study performed in Belgium a toxin found in the “helicopter” seeds of the sycamore was found in 100% of cases of atypical myopathy and the tree itself was located in the pasture of all of these horses. This a disease found in horses that are at grazing on parched or bare land with no supplementary feeding available. There are also sycamore trees in or near the field so that the seeds are shed during the early autumn and are, therefore, available to these horses to eat. Treatment for this disease is continuous intravenous fluids and anti-inflammatory drugs but, as mentioned above, many cases die or require euthanasia. Diagnosis is by blood sample and urine sample. If a case is identified then all other horses on the same paddock should be stabled and observed for clinical signs, or at the very least moved to a different pasture. Prevention is by primarily avoiding at risk fields with little grass and sycamores present but if there is no choice then supplementary feeding should reduce the risk of scavenging the seeds. Leaving hay or haylage on the floor should be avoided, especially in damp weather and the use of racks or nets is better. March 2014 | 31

21/02/2014 17:23

Xxxxxxxxxx Healthcare

spring pasture danger T he spring months can sadly go hand in hand with an increased risk of equine laminitis. The lush spring pasture can bring about this harmful, painful condition providing a real worry for horse owners. If your horse or pony is affected this season then both the equine diet and the environment in which our equines are kept need to be carefully considered. In some cases during acute laminitis the equine will require a period of box rest and if an enforced rest phase is necessary it is vital

that the environment is as “equine friendly” and as suitable as possible to meet the patient’s needs and offer a place of solace. Alongside providing fresh water and ample forage, one of the most important factors to consider for your box-resting equine is the bedding you choose. It is essential for the laminitis prone equine to be stabled on good quality, deep and supportive bedding in order to keep painful feet away from uncomfortable, hard surfaces and alleviate any pressure by providing

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ompetition Stallions, is now available a comprehensive resource to help British Breeders select the best stallions for their mares. It brings together pedigrees, progeny information and photographs in an easy to use reference directory. Available both in print and online, the directory delivers an unrivalled depth of information and variety of stallions for different disciplines. The Competition Stallions guide is supported by British Breeding and sponsored by Baileys Horse Feeds. This edition features 100 Graded and Approved competition stallions including Olympic stallions and seven stallions ranked in the top 30 World Breeding Federation for Sport Horses (WBFSH) Sire Rankings for 2013. The guide also includes stallions from a wide range of Breed Societies and Stud Books. Several new features have been added to the 2014 edition. For the first time, stallion statistics from British Dressage join British Eventing’s stallion statistics. The index has also been enhanced so stallions can now be searched for by stud or stallion agent in addition to the discipline and name searches provided in previous issues of the guide. The Competition Stallions guide has also embraced social media and for the online guide a facebook and tweet link for each stallion is in now in place. The guide is free to breeders and widely available at stallion parades, breeding events, all major competition horse sales and selected stands at Badminton and Burghley, or can be purchased for £10 online at www. competition-stallions.com

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21/02/2014 17:23

News • Feeding

irish cob still a handful! D

espite being 21-yearsold, 13.3hh Irish cob, Gypsy still remains a handful for owner Janet Pilling when at a driving competition. Janet has enjoyed driving trials for many years and was delighted when she found and bought Gypsy. Explains Janet: “I have owned Gypsy for 14 years now and bought him from travellers in Ireland when I was looking for a driving pony. “He has been such a star but at competitions I found he could get very fizzy and lose focus in the dressage. Even though he is now 21 he is still great fun and loves competing so much and he certainly hasn’t slowed down. “I decided to try TopSpec Calmer as although I wanted him to remain relaxed in the dressage I still needed him to have plenty of energy and go for the cross-country phase. “The difference has been amazing and I now go to competitions confident that he will keep calm in the dressage phase rather than argue with me. “In so many ways he can be very

new ambassador for saddle Up

easy to do and is never a problem when out on the roads or training but as soon as you get him in a dressage arena at a competition he changes and knows he is there. “The Calmer really has transformed his behaviour and thankfully he is no longer the fizzy, hot-headed pony he used to be when competing. “I really enjoy taking him to competitions now and am confident he will keep it together whereas before I used to be unsure whether he would keep his focus or fight against me.” Janet told Equi-Ads she also adds TopSpec 10:10 Joint Support to Gypsy’s feed which helps to keep him supple. “I keep thinking Gypsy might want to retire but he is still so well and at the top of his game that we are looking forward to another season competing.”

nternational event rider and Olympic team silver medallist, Nicola Wilson will be joining Mary King, Nick Skelton, Claire Lomas, Francis Whittington and Andrew Gould as an ambassador for ‘Saddle Up’. The dedicated rider campaign for Spinal Research, has grown from strength to strength since it was launched 13 years ago and with the fantastic support it has received from riders and the public this has enabled it to continually fund vital and groundbreaking research into finding an effective treatment for paralysis. Too many riders are paralysed each year as a result of a riding accident. The charity, is therefore, appealing to equestrian enthusiasts, riding clubs, Pony Clubs, riding schools, equestrian centres and livery yards to support it by organising a fundraising event such as a charity show, tack sale, quiz night, or by holding a sports event. Nicola is fully supportive of this wonderfully important charity and is calling for as many people to make a New Year’s resolution by holding a fundraising event, and everyone who signs up to run an event by Friday 4th April, will be entered into a draw to meet Nicola at a competition, with the person raising the most money from their event not only getting the chance to meet Nicola, but also the opportunity to follow Nicola and her team around at a competition to see how they work together to produce such top level event horses*. To be eligible for this fantastic opportunity to meet one of GB’s leading event riders, please register your idea or activity online www. spinal-research.org or call our ‘I believe’ New Year Resolution hotline on 01483 898786 by Friday 28th February 2014.

A SAFE FIBRE SOURCE FOR LAMINITICS Speedi-Beet

• • • •

Up to 80% total fibre Non-heating 95% sugar free Laminitis Trust approved

vs.

Spring Grass

• • • •

Up to 50% total fibre Can cause excitable behaviour High sugar levels Implicated in laminitis

+44 (0) 1765 680 300 www.facebook.com/britishhorsefeeds

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Equi_Ads_Mar_National_Rev.indd 33

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Xxxxxxxxxx Feeding

Choose the Hoof Kind Diet! T

here is often a misconception that HorseHage is rich in energy and therefore unsuitable for horses and ponies prone to laminitis. This is not the case with the High Fibre and Timothy varieties of HorseHage. Forage can vary in quality as well as nutritional composition. Some batches of hay can contain large amounts of sugar – as much as 10% - whereas with HorseHage sugar levels are only around 5%, due to its unique fermentation process. High Fibre HorseHage is made from ryegrass but in this particular variety, the ryegrasses have been allowed to mature before harvesting to attain higher fibre, lower protein and lower energy levels. This means it is very different from ordinary haylages made from ryegrass and makes it an excellent choice for laminitics, good doers and horses and ponies that are convalescing or resting. The same low protein and energy levels are found in Timothy HorseHage which is made from timothy grass and is very similar to the famous Kentucky bluegrass of America. It is already naturally high in fibre and because it has a different ‘nose’ to ryegrass, horses find it very appetising, so it’s a great choice for fussy feeders. As well as the low sugar and energy benefits making High Fibre and Timothy HorseHage safe to feed to laminitics, these bagged forages are also dust-free – an essential quality to avoid causing serious respiratory problems such as RAO. They contain no chemical additives, mould inhibitors or inoculants – just natural grass – and are more digestible than other forages allowing more efficient utilisation of the available nutrients. In other words, your horse or pony will get more nutritional value from this type of forage, which may enable you to cut down on his hard feed. Even better, because HorseHage is so appetising, there is rarely any waste. HorseHage is BETA FEMAS NOPS certified which means it is produced from speciallygrown grass with a high regard for feed safety, consistent quality and full product traceability, so you know exactly what your horse or pony is being fed. HorseHage has devised a special diet especially for laminitics called ‘The HoofKind Diet’. Feed either High Fibre and/or Timothy HorseHage alongside Mollichaff HoofKind, which is a great value, complete feed specially formulated for horses and ponies prone to laminitis. When fed at the recommended levels, it contains all the vitamins and minerals your laminitic horse or pony needs to keep him healthy. For more information on feeding your horse, pony or donkey, please call the HorseHage Helpline on: 01803 527257 or visit www.horsehage.co.uk

34 | march 2014

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Hickstead Horse Feeds

f course, everyone is talking about this grim weather. It is not a fun time for either horse owners or horses and there is no let up for the foreseeable future. Many fields in the country are either waterlogged or flooded and as a result horses have to be stabled. As the evenings are still dark, for many it is not possible to exercise either before or after work so it is important to get the feeding correct. The main criteria when feeding is to make sure the energy levels are right to prevent your horse either climbing the walls or worst, the onset of metabolic problems associated with overfeeding and limited exercise. This is the time to feed Hickstead Horse Feeds Leisure Balancer. It is perfect for stabled horses requiring a low calorie yet complete balanced diet, preventing either excitability, or weight gain. Leisure balancer contains Yeasacc, a live yeast culture which has been scientifically proven to stimulate the growth of fibre digesting bacteria in the gut, along with organic trace minerals in a highly digestible form. Biotin, zinc, methionine and calcium are added to help promote good hoof quality and due to the low starch and sugar content, Leisure Balancer is ideal for horses and ponies at risk of laminitis. Why not contact us to find out more about our feeds For any information on Hickstead Horse Feeds products, or for nutritional advice of any sort, please feel free to contact us on 0845 0250 444. We really are very friendly. info@hicksteadhorsefeeds.co.uk www.hicksteadhorsefeeds.co.uk Facebook: Hickstead Horse Feeds.

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Feeding Essential Vitamins and Minerals

Added Oil

Hickstead Leisure balancers provides all the essential vitamins and minerals that your horse or pony requires. The inclusion of Bioplex® chelated minerals and Selplex® selenium maximises the availability of these nutrients and their subsequent utilisation by the horse.

Ensures gleaming coat shine.

Quality Protein

A high level of soya is included which provides essential building blocks required to promote quality muscle tone and skin condition.

3 Provides essential vitamins, minerals and quality protein without the unwanted energy or calories of a conventional mix or cube. 3 Economical to feed – available in 15kg sacks which will last a 500kg horse for 30 days! 3 Non-heating formula, free from cereal grains. 3 Low in starch and sugar so suitable for horses and ponies at risk of laminitis or those prone to excitability.

Digestive Support

Contains the live yeast “Yea Sacc” which has been shown in scientific trials to maintain and improve digestion and to support the effective digestion of fibre

Biotin, Zinc, Methioine and Calcium

Low In starch

Contains no grain, but a blend of soya, cereal fibre and oilseeds, making it suitable for laminitics and excitable types

Added to help promote good hoof quality

For more information: tel: 0845 0250 444 www.hicksteadhorsefeeds.co.uk info@hicksteadhorsefeeds.co.uk

A CHECKLIST FOR EQUINE HEALTH This guide should be used to ensure responsible horse management. Seek advice from a suitable person/vet or professional body.

ARRIVALS

GENERAL

HEALTH

DISEASE

TRANSPORT

 ORIGIN AND STATUS - risk assess the horse even before arrival, depending where it is from (the passport may help here), e.g. is it from abroad (including the Republic of Ireland) and if so, how long ago? Also what is it’s worming or vaccination history?

 GENERAL HEALTH CHECK (see column 1) - minimum twice daily if stabled, once daily if at grass

 WHICH VET - all horses should be registered with a practice and contact number displayed. Yard manager should appoint a ‘yard vet’ for coordinating disease, health and general advice

 DISEASE RISK is constant and increasing from both endemic disease (eg. Strangles) and exotic disease (eg. EIA). Be vigilant especially in recently imported animals. Seek advice from your vet

 SAFETY - ensure horsebox/trailer is suitable and is well maintained, including flooring and partitions. Be aware of the Emergency Services Protocol (BEVA and Fire and Rescue Service)

 CONSULT if ill, injured, lame, swelling, discharge, off food or water, or concerned in any way

 SUSPECT - always isolate if illness suspected or a horse has been off the premises at a risky event (eg. been in contact with sick horse at a show)

 REQUIREMENTS - valid (equine) passport; Horseboxes will have to be roadworthy (i.e. MOT inspected) and drivers will need to have (a) the appropriate driving licence and (b) if driving as part of an economic activity etc they will need a Certificate of Competence

 PREPARE - clean/disinfect* box, isolation area, equipment and storage; review documents (livery agreements, information from new owners on vaccination/ worming etc.)  GENERAL HEALTH CHECK - on arrival: behaving normally; good appetite; no cuts, wounds or swellings; moving normally and sound  RISK - based on above, use to determine whether to: • Test, e.g. worm egg count, blood test for Strangles, EIA (come from abroad), tapeworms, piroplasmosis, other? • Isolate, minimum period two weeks (also see column 4)  INTEGRATE after isolation period, gradually and carefully, to avoid social stress and injury *Government approved general purpose disinfectant

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 NUTRITION • Water available at all times • Feed, forage and graze according to type, work, weight and season • Establish a routine • Record weight regularly • Seek advice from nutritionist or vet (feed manufacturers/ merchant) • Beware overweight as well as underweight; all horses have a laminitis risk  EQUIPMENT SHARE - try to avoid, especially tack, headcollars, brushes, rugs, mucking out kit. Never share syringes or needles between horses  MUCK CONTROL - poo-pick regularly; site muckheap away from horses; arrange regular muckheap disposal  HEAT CONTROL - depending on the season, weather or work level. Wash down after exercise; clip and rug as appropriate  BREEDING - risk-based prebreeding testing for disease (e.g. CEM, EVA) essential for natural covering and AI. Also, correct certification/identification/ record keeping. Follow industry codes, e.g. HBLB Code. Use vet or qualified technicians

 VACCINATION - Tetanus is very important; Influenza, and maybe EHV, are important in livery yards and animals mixing at shows; Strangles vaccination requires risk assessment and planning with your yard vet; EHV and Rotavirus in studs; EVA in some stallions  PARASITE CONTROL - worm egg counts and strategic worming programme. External parasite control – flies, lice, mange, ticks. Consider mosquito/midge breeding sites especially standing water. Sweet Itch control essential  FINANCES - charities can help with advice and solutions, but not vets fees. Consider appropriate insurance

 ISOLATE • Stable and graze away from other horses eg. own paddock (preferably without ability to “nose-touch” over fence, ideally 10 metres separation). Any in contact companions should be separated and monitored too • Barrier management - wash hands; dedicated over-clothes; disinfectant* boot dip; schedule handling after contact with other horses; no sharing of equipment/utensils • How long - risk dependent, seek veterinary advice  EUTHANASIA - old, sick or injured animals may require euthanasia which should not be avoided but must be done humanely by a vet or a licensed slaughterman. Disposal of the body can be costly, so plan for this eventuality

 PREPARE - muck out, clean and disinfect* vehicle after each journey or before journey if vehicle unused for some time. Train all horses to load/travel as they may need to be transported in an emergency (eg. to the vets)  TRAVEL • Separate from other animals for safety • Risk Assess - long journeys can bring out disease and increase risk of catching disease • Water and Feed/Forage should be taken on any journey in case of breakdown or heavy traffic • Record overnight stays away from yard of one night or more (eg. in yard diary)

BIOSECURITY - the steps we take to prevent the spread of disease. Produced for the equine sector in conjunction with government. www.beva.org.uk

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Xxxxxxxxxx Healthcare

vitex4 equids C

nometsyn T

Formula4 Feet: hoof and laminitis supplement F

advanced style Frog supports for laminitis suﬀerers T

ushing’s Disease is a common predisposing cause of laminitis in equids. Having used conventional drug treatments, the Laminitis Clinic finds Vitex4 Equids to be equally effective in combating Cushing’s Disease. Vitex4 Equids is very palatable and has no known side-effects (consult the data sheet of prescribed drugs to view the listed side-effects). Available in 2.5 litre and 5 litre containers. A 2.5 litre supply of Vitex4 Equids will last a 360kg bodyweight pony for 42 days at an administration rate of 60 ml per day in the feed. (RRP’s 5L Vitex4 Equids £67.00: 2.5 L Vitex4 Equids £39.99 including next day delivery). Secure on-line ordering is available at www.equilife.co.uk Alternatively phone 01249-890784.

ormula4 Feet is the UK’s leading supplement for horses and ponies with poor hoof horn quality or laminitis. The clinical response to supplementation is obvious with stronger horn growth and a radiant hair coat, in as little as four weeks. Formula4 Feet is GM free and highly palatable. Combined with a unique blend of essential phospholipids, inorganic and chelated forms of zinc, three powerful anti-oxidants, the two rate limiting amino acids lysine and threonine and an ample supply of omega three fatty acids makes Formula4 Feet the most cost effective supplement or feed balancer available. RRP 7kg bag £34.99; 20kg sack £89.99 Please contact Equi Life on 01249-890784 for further information or visit the website www.equilife.co.uk.

he Laminitis Clinic has dealt with the problems of insulin resistance and laminitis for 30 years, with an enviable success rate! NoMetSyn has more benefits than drug treatments and is thus a treatment of choice to combat insulin resistance and laminitis. Blood insulin and glucose concentrations can normalize within 60 days of starting to feed NoMetSyn resulting in less pain and more mobility for your horse or pony. NoMetSyn is available in 200gm pots which last a 300kg bodyweight pony for 66 days (RRP £99.00 including next day delivery). www.equilife.co.uk/NoMetSyn. htm and secure on-line ordering. Alternatively phone 01249890784.

LC Frog Supports are designed, tested and recommended by The Laminitis Clinic; they provide relief for horses and ponies suffering with laminitis and founder. TLC Frog supports support the pedal bone through the frog thus relieving the strain on the weakened laminae. This minimises the risk of pedal bone displacement. In an emergency, the frog supports should be fitted while awaiting the vet’s arrival. Together with a roll of self adhesive bandage, TLC Frog Supports should be in every horse owners’ first aid box. For your free info pack please telephone Equi Life on 01249-890784 or visit www.equilife.co.uk where secure online ordering and case histories are available.

Bollin Terry 16hh

Dark Bay

1994

Thoroughbred Stallion

Wood pellet horse bedding oﬀers many unique features and beneﬁts compared to traditional bedding...meaning winter comfort for your horse and peace of mind for you. • HALVES MUCKING OUT TIME • NO AMMONIA SMELL • SUPER ABSORBENT • NO NEED TO LIFT BED TO AERATE FLOOR • WARM & INSULATING BED • COST EFFECTIVE • LOW DUST CONTENT • COMPACT 15kg BAGS • 100% BIODEGRADABLE

Winner of 2 races, placed 8 and £26,968 Many Championship in the Show Ring as Hack, Hunter & Ex-Racehorse IN THIS DIFFICULT ECONOMIC TIME, and to help mare owners; the 2013 stud fee has been reduced to £400 for the WHOLE season.

Offspring competing successfully British Eventing, Showing, Riding Club and Pony Club from a wide range of mares. Registered with Weatherbys & Graded Scottish Sports Horse. All keep charges are still held at the low rate of recent years.

��

Natural Service at Puddledub or Chilled and Frozen Semen is available to send anywhere.

For stud cards and further details please contact: Fiona Reed Tel: 01592 872717 or 07714 702417 puddledubstud@aol.com www.puddledub.webs.com

36 | march 2014

Equi_Ads_Mar_National_Rev.indd 36

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21/02/2014 17:23

Only Equi Life provides this range of anti-laminitis solutions

THE LAMINITIS CLINIC

We all want to avoid laminitis; it is a horrible painful disease which afflicts too many of our horses and ponies. At the Laminitis Clinic, the UK’s only dedicated laminitis treatment centre, we have treated many hundreds of horses and ponies. Our clinical research has allowed us to develop a group of unique products which we use every day at the Clinic. We have also learnt a good deal about laminitis prevention. Formula4 Feet represents the most up to date nutritional supplement, providing over 65 micronutrients, which addresses both the problems of poor horn quality and those of insulin resistance.

You don’t have to imprison your horse in order to prevent laminitis these days. If you follow the guidelines issued by the Scientific Committee of the Laminitis Trust, printed only on bags of feed which carry the Laminitis Trust Approval logo, your horse can enjoy limited grazing time. The secret of avoiding laminitis is not to turn out until you can easily feel the ribs and not to allow too much grass at one “sitting”. A feeding muzzle or strip grazing can prove helpful in avoiding any “tendency to tubbiness”! To help you keep a check on your horse’s weight we offer the TLC WeighTape. Inexpensive and simple to use. Make a note of your animal’s weight each time you have the farrier visit. If you find your animal’s weight is increasing then adjust the diet so that you can always feel the ribs without undue effort.

We thoroughly recommend that you carry at least a pair, and preferably a set, of TLC Frog Supports in your emergency kit; Just in case. These unique frog cushions are Insulin resistance is the problem which makes horses and ponies widely used by equine vets as an essential to laminitis management. They provide put on weight easily, the “good doers” of this world. The immediate relief for your horse should inclusion of balanced magnesium, chromium, vanadium and laminitis strike. Made from a firm, washable, glucose tolerance factor makes Formula4 Feet the product of resilient foam, TLC Frog Supports relieve choice, as part of a calorie controlled diet, when trying to laminar strain without making the horse reduce the “cresty necks”, so common in laminitis cases. stand on its’ painful soles. TLC Frog Supports On behalf of the Laminitis Trust we conducted a three year trial can be fitted to shod or unshod feet. Horses should then be transported to a stable of Vitex4 Equids on Equine Cushing’s Disease; the results are with a deep shavings bed covering the whole floor area, there for all to see at www.laminitisclinic.org/Vitex trial.html. to await the vet’s arrival. Vitex4 Equids is now our remedy of choice for ECD in combination with Formula4 Feet and Laminitis Trust approved When you call Equi Life you may feeds. not realise that the person who answers the phone has cared for We have developed NoMetSyn to combat Metabolic Syndrome. 400 laminitis, founder and sinker NoMetSyn is a product based on plant extracts. It has no side cases. So you y are talking to experts. effects, we find it to be both veryy effective and well accepted by We W are here to help you keep all equids. The results are heart-warming. arming. your equids healthy, we have y proven products and proven pr solutions. So with wit all this available, why not make mak 2014 the year your friend gets g the TLC it deserves?

Equi Life; Tel; 01249-890784 • www.equilife.co.uk ( secure online ordering provided)

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Xxxxxxxxxx Saddlery

Bridle Fitting advice Question:

I have just bought a new horse and need to buy a new bridle, what should I look for in a new bridle and how do I ensure it is fitted correctly and will be comfortable for the horse? Answer:

The Society of Master Saddlers replies: First of all you need to think about the purpose of the bridle and what you are going to be doing with your horse. A well selected, correctly fitting bridle can enhance the

best points of a horse’s head and help disguise the less fortunate. In showing this can be used to great advantage. Remember horses come in many different shapes and sizes and every breed has individual attributes that make them suited to a specific discipline, interest or showing class. You can go to your local tack shop and select the finest, well designed bridle using the finest materials and crafting. It could be just what you need and show off your horse but only if it fits

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OUR PRODUCTS ARE ALL HAND CRAFTED, USING QUALITY MATERIALS AND OFFER EXCEPTIONAL VALUE FOR MONEY.

John Goodrick

WHEY CARR FARM, SAND HUTTON,YORK YO41 1LB TEL: 01904 468433 FAX: 01904 468433 e-mail: sales@johngoodrick-equestrian.co.uk www.johngoodrick-equestrian.co.uk WE ALSO OFFER MOBILE SHELTERS, RUBBER STABLE MATS AND ELECTRIC FENCING

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correctly… and quite simply it can be a useless tool if it does not fit! If you are taking part in any specialist disciplines or classes make sure you know the rules and know what is and is not allowed to be worn. This could be a costly mistake if you are planning to compete. The simplest and most common bridle is the snaﬄe but fitting a bridle has the same principles whatever the style. When fitting a bridle on a horse for the first time hold the bridle at the side of the horse to get a rough idea of how big the horse’s head is. Adjust the fastenings as necessary, if you don’t do this you may struggle to get the headpiece over the horse’s head if it is too small. Straps can be left out of their keepers and runners to make adjusting quick and easy. Once the bridle is in place, do up the buckles, starting from the top and working down. All buckle straps must go away from you, therefore pointing to the off side of the horse. The browband must not be so tight that it pinches the back of the ears or pulls the bridle forward. If fitted too high it will rub around the base of the ears causing discomfort which may cause head shaking. The bridle should be loose enough to not cause the horse

discomfort but tight enough not to slip off. A correctly fitted bit should hang so that the corners of the mouth are slightly wrinkled and the horse appears to be smiling. The cheek pieces can easily be adjusted if necessary to gain the correct position. The throat lash must not restrict the horse’s breathing. When fastening it remember that some horses become very thick through the jaw in collected paces. To measure for a good fit place three fingers between the throat lash and underneath the horse’s chin. The cavesson noseband should lie about two fingers’ breadth below the prominent cheekbones and just above the rings of the bit to avoid pinching or chafing. (continued on page 40)

olution Saddles offer the only 100% flexible sports saddles available on the market place today. Designed and approved for all disciplines, SMARTTM saddles offer all horses and riders a truly adjustable saddling solution, enabling comfort and performance at all levels, at all times. Due to the flexible nature of SMART TM saddles, they can accommodate a horse though any changes in shape throughout its lifetime. The flexible saddle gullet can expand or contract to however wide or narrow the shape of the horse’s back, without pinching. With no head plate to adjust or flocking to alter, SMARTTM saddles simply flex around the horse, whatever shape he/she is. Constructed using a patented layering system of variable density materials, the saddles are resilient in supporting the weight of the rider, whilst protecting the horses back. Routine use of the Tekscan CONFORMatTM Pressure Mapping system is providing us with evidence that, correctly fitted, SMART saddles offer reduced peak and overall pressures when compared with a well-fitted treed saddle. We offer a home consultation and rental service as well as 3 x 0% payment plans up to 12 months. Call us on 01909 720 259 to discuss your requirements or visit www.solution-saddles.co.uk for more information.

An approved feed material which removes toxins from the horse’s system, safely and naturally. Improves Health, Behaviour & Performance. Guards against Ulcers, Colic, Wind-sucking, Crib Biting and Lameness. Very effective and economic to use. www.finefettlefeed.com or call 01600 712496

38 | march 2014

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Xxxxxxxxxx Saddlery • Healthcare

national saddlery Competition W

ith a huge increase in entries and high-level craftsmanship on show, this year’s Society of Master Saddlers’ National Saddlery Competition was described as one of the best ever. Held at Saddlers’ Hall, London and supported by The Worshipful Company of Saddlers, the competition awards ceremony was followed by an evening reception which attracted many of the leading names from the saddlery and equestrian world. Society of Master Saddlers’ President, Helen Dart said: “The standard of work on display has been outstanding and without doubt improves year on year”. Following a host of awards throughout the evening, Dennis Townsend of Ryder Saddlery was the delighted winner of the Bruce Emtage Memorial Plate for Best in Show. The award was made for Dennis’ entry in the Open Saddle class. Dennis told Equi-Ads: “I am delighted that the saddle was so well received. To win the Best in Show award was just fantastic. He made a dressage saddle with a larger knee roll which really caught the judges’ attention.

To round off an excellent evening for Walsall-based Ryder Saddlery, Mike Roper took the honours in the Trade/Company Saddle category after his eventing saddle proved the most popular choice with the judges. The Les Coker Millennium Trophy for the Best Entry by an Apprentice went to Ellie Tomlinson for her double bridle entered in the trainee bridle class. Ellie is based at Equestrian World in Henley on Thames and trains at the Saddlery Training Centre. A winner of three classes Ellie

said: “I have had a fantastic evening and can’t believe it. The night really has been very special and to go home with so many awards is brilliant.” Frances Kelly’s entry in the Open Bridle Class saw her take home the Alf Batchelor Memorial Trophy for the best piece of bridlework. While the Side Saddle Association Trophy for the best side saddle went to a delighted Tiffany Parkinson who has more than 26 years’ experience as a saddler but only 18-months experience when it comes to making side saddles. A popular class with the brief of making ‘Any Leather Fashion Item or Accessory’ was the President’s Choice section which included The Society of Master Saddlers’ President, Helen Dart, as one of the

judges. Winner of the President’s Choice was Line Hansen, who made a ‘Build a Bag’. The Tony Russell Memorial Trophy for the best harness entry was awarded to Catrien Coppens for her entry in the Open Harness Class.

Brand new on-line tack shop Stockist of Toggi, Sebago, Champion, John Whitaker and many more Free shipping for all items. www.equestriansaddlery-online.co.uk equestriansaddlery@mail.com Tel: 07725033931

ENHANCE YOUR HORSE’S PERFORMANCE WITH THE EQUINE PREMIUM RANGE

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march 2014 | 39

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70 to 100% of your horse’s diet should be provided by forage...

Saddlery • Healthcare (continued from page 38) Check that the noseband is level before fastening. If you place two fingers inside the noseband it will give you an idea of the tightness required. Bespoke bridles are also another option. Made by craft bridle-maker these bridles are perfectly made to measure your horse and fitted. It certainly takes the hassle out of buying and fitting one and can be extremely good value for money and a worthwhile investment. The bridle-maker will come out to measure up your horse, and if this is not possible due to distances involved they will give clear measuring instructions for you to do it yourself and feedback the measurements. If you are interested in this option the Society of Master

Saddlers can help as many of their members are craft bridle-makers who are amongst the best in the world. 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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21/02/2014 17:23

Xxxxxxxxxx News

FLY GRAZING - a lawyer’s view

by Lindsay Watts

he fly grazing debate carries on, and now that the Control of Horses (Wales) Act came into force on the 28th of January, our Editor thought it might be illuminating to have a lawyer have a look at the problem. I used to practise law in Scotland, but this article is about the UK wide solutions, and from the start I need to make clear that this article is to discuss the problem, it is not intended to be legal advice. If you need that, go to a lawyer – particularly if you are in England or Wales, as I am no expert in those countries. Fly grazing is the practice of abandoning animals that the owner no longer wants – or nowadays can no longer afford to keep – on someone else’s land. Some have been abandoned on land belonging to individuals, but others have been abandoned on public ground, such as parks, or the open spaces on housing estates. The problem of fly grazing is only part of the larger problem of abandoned animals, such as dogs, cats, and now horses. There are a variety of problems that arise when this happens with horses. Obviously they are big enough to injure a child, and alarm adults and elderly people. They damage plants and other things (especially if they have an itch). Through no fault of their own, they leave dung all over the place. I reckon a barrow per horse per day. In the winter they really need extra feeding, and will seek out fodder, often doing damage while trying to get at it. If you find a piece of valuable jewellery on the ground, there are consequences. You have to try to return it to its owner. You have to tell the police. You have to take reasonable care of it until it can be returned to its owner. The law considers horses to be “property” so the consequences are the same – particularly the last one. If a horse is lame, or a rickle of bones, and it is on your land, you have a responsibility to feed it properly, and if necessary, call in the vet – and pay his bill. It is probably this financial responsibility that made the Welsh local authorities push for legislation to resolve the problem of horses being dumped on their land. So we now have different laws in Wales, England, Scotland and Switzerland trying to deal with the same issue in different ways. That issue is ownership,

and the rights and responsibilities an owner has over a horse or any other piece of property. An owner can sell, give away or euthanase a horse. No one else (apart from local authorities in Wales) can do this. An owner is responsible for the cost of looking after a horse, for any damage caused by it, and for any vet’s bills incurred in its welfare. If you do not know who the owner is, those rights and cannot be exercised, and any finder is reluctant to take on the responsibilities of the owner (about the welfare of the horse) because it will cost money they are unlikely to recover. In an earlier article for the Scottish version of this magazine I explained that an owner does not lose ownership simply because he no longer has possession of the animal. If it has been stolen from him, he is always entitled to get it back if it is found several years later – and the person who it is taken back from can only claim back any price he paid from the person he bought it from, if he can find him, and if he has any money. This basic rule can only be changed by legislation of some sort, such as the Welsh Act. Let’s have a look at the Control of Horses (Wales) Act 2014 first, as it is easy to find. Google it, and then go to the hit from the “legislation.gov. uk” website. It provides that if a horse is found “on any highway, or in any other public place in the local authority’s area if the local authority has reasonable grounds for believing that the horse is there without lawful authority” then it can “seize and impound” it. It can also seize any horse on any other person’s land, if there without the consent of the occupier, and the occupier agrees the horse may be seized. Once the horse has been seized they must try to notify the owner, and must notify the police. They are to leave a notice where the horse was found, and take “reasonable steps” to find out who the owner of the horse is, and notify them of the seizure. After 7 days, if no one has come forward, or the owner fails to pay the cost of seizure and any care costs, the local authority can “sell or otherwise dispose of the horse (including by arranging for its destruction).” There are one or two problems with this Act.

Competition Clean Up! W

hen it comes to keeping your horse’s boots, bandages and legs clean and dry, Golly Galoshes are your secret weapon this competition season! They are clever waterproof and breathable gaiters designed to be worn over boots and bandages during schooling and general exercise, making them ideal not only for keeping your bandages and boots pristine in the warm-up, but also a brilliant solution for use at home for everyday use. Natasha Baker, uses them for both hacking and schooling. As for eventer and ex-racehorse trainer Victoria Bax, they are also ideal for keeping legs dry and boots from getting soggy in the rain and heavy with mud when cross-country training. She told Equi-Ads: “Golly Galoshes are quick and easy to put on/take off and also help prevent mud, sand or grit getting underneath your horses’ protective leg wear and unlike your horses’ legs, Golly Galoshes are also machine washable!” Prices start from £25.99 per pair Miniature Pony through to £34.99 for horse sizing: www.gollygaloshes.com www.equi-ads.com

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Firstly it gives local authorities powers, but no one else. Landowners cannot use the Act and neither can charities. They can ask the local authority to seize horses on their land, but if the local authority refuses, they can do nothing about it. This is because the authority “may” seize loose horse, but is not obliged to. If they decide to use their scarce resources to provide care for elderly people, and not deal with loose horses, no one can force them. Secondly, section 5 provides that they may dispose of horses by selling them, or any other means, including arranging for their destruction. There is no obligation there to try to dispose of the animal alive before resorting to destruction. An authority with scarce resources may choose to destroy all animals seized by them, because that is cheaper than trying to rehome them. This will be more likely because a passport will be required to sell or rehome an animal, and we all know the passport issuing organisations need evidence of ownership before a passport can be issued. A third problem is that the legislation could be abused, because section 2 provides that a horse can be seized if the local authority has “reasonable grounds for believing that the horse is there without lawful authority”. That is, whether the owner is there or not. So if horses are ridden along local authority land, or even private land, without “authority”, then they are capable of being seized, rather than just told to go away. I hope that provision is not abused, but it could be. The biggest problem is of course the viciously short time scale of seven days that lies between seizure and possible slaughter. If your horse is stolen while you are on holiday, and then let loose by the thief, then it could be dead by the date you return. No doubt the limit was kept as short as possible to prevent undue expense of maintenance to the local authorities whose budgets are already stretched. One thing that would definitely help is if the passport and microchipping regulations were enforced more effectively. This would mean that there would be very few horses whose owners could not be found. However the people tasked with enforcing the regulations are the local authorities, and my sympathies are with them at the moment. More responsibilities with less cash to carry them out – they really are in a “no win” situation. In England and Wales section 7 of the Animals Act 1971 deals with the “detention and sale of trespassing livestock”, which specifically include horses. The provisions can be enforced by local authorities or by individual landowners. It provides that where livestock, including horses, stray onto land and are not under the control of any person, the occupier of the land may detain the animal. Their right to detain the animal ceases after 48 hours unless they inform the police, and if they know of the owner, inform him also. If the owner comes forward and pays the cost of any damage done by the animal and the cost of caring for it, then the horse is returned. If not, after fourteen days have passed, then the person detaining it “may sell it at market or by public auction” and apply the proceeds of sale to the costs of maintaining the (continued on page 42) March 2014 | 41

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News Xxxxxxxxxx • Healthcare (continued from page 41) horse. Section 7 subsection 6 provides, tellingly, that any person detaining livestock will be liable in damages for any failure to treat it with reasonable care and supply it with adequate food and water while it is so detained. So any person detaining a horse must pay its vet’s bills. All this sounds good until you build in the passport regulations. No horse can be moved, sold or put down without a passport. No passport issuing organisation will issue one without evidence you are the owner. They will not simply accept that you detained it in terms of the Animal Act. You will have to go to court to get an order declaring you are the owner, before you can get a passport, so that you can do something with the horse. Catch 22. Easier to lead it with a bucket onto someone else’s ground….. The Scottish solution is very similar, but not based on the Animals Act, because that does not extend to Scotland. The legislation involved is the Civic Government (Scotland) Act 1982, which governs, among other things the regulation of sex shops and how lost and abandoned property is dealt with. Section 67 provides that any person taking possession of property in circumstances which make it reasonable to infer that the property had been lost or abandoned should deliver or report the fact that he has taken possession of it to the police. The police are then tasked with trying to find the owner, and if they cannot find the owner within two months, then they can dispose of the property by offering it to the finder, or in any other manner they think fit. Many goods not taken by the finder are sold at auctions. If it is not reasonable to retain the item for the two months period, then they can dispose of it “as they see fit”. Presumably this would apply to perishable goods, such as strawberries. Section 74 deals with “living creatures”. It provides that if a person finds a living creature other than dogs (which are dealt with in separate legislation) and livestock (which is stated to include horses), then if the chief constable has allowed them to retain it for a two month period, then after two months they are declared to be the owner. But (and there is always a “but”) section 71 provides

that if the chief constable has disposed of property “for value” the new owner becomes the outright owner, but if they become the owner in any other way (for instance because the chief constable gave it to them) then the true owner can still claim it back within a year. Confused? I am. It seems to be that horses are not covered by the provisions about living creatures, but if the law was changed so that they were, it would be quite a reasonable way of dealing with the problem. At the moment the law in Scotland appears to be that horses are to be dealt with in the same way as abandoned bicycles, and sold off at auction after two months. The Swiss solution involves a legal concept known as prescription. After a certain amount of time passes, then certain rights are cut off, or “prescribe”. For instance in Scotland, if you are

injured and have a claim against someone for damages, you have 3 years in which to take that to court. After those 3 years, your right to sue them prescribes. So if someone found a horse, gave it to the police, and after two months was offered it to keep, at the moment the real owner can come back anytime, perhaps years later, and recover it. If that right to recover was made to “prescribe” after a reasonable period, then the finder would become the new owner, because no one could challenge his right to the horse. This is the situation in Switzerland, which I understand provides that after two months with a new owner, the original owner’s right to the animal is cut off by prescription. The law is in a mess. It doesn’t provide a solution to the problem. It has been developed piecemeal, and from a historic viewpoint, rather than the (continued on page 44)

Pony Club launch new scheme T

he Pony Club is launching a new scheme this Spring to help identify its most talented members and prepare them for programmes offered by the BEF, Sport England, other parts of UK Sport, and the three Olympic disciplines. Nine regional assessment and training days will be held across the country, open to all Pony Club members aged 12 to 18 years who meet the specified criteria in Dressage, Show jumping or Eventing. Each regional assessment will see a maximum of 20 riders, selected from the applications, working with two recognised and experienced coaches who will be working with a mixture of the riders during the sessions and in groups specific to the rider’s discipline during the afternoon sessions. With only thirty places available the most talented riders from the assessment days will attend the national camp, 14-15 June at Somerford Park EC, where they will receive coaching in their discipline. At the end of the national camp, a final six riders will be selected to be part of the rider development squad. Applications are available online (www.pcuk.org) until the 10th March so don’t delay. Check the Rider Development web page or contact Jenny Yates: jenny@pcuk.org or call 0247 6698305.

Has an MRI Scan Changed Your Horse’s Life?

AVE you owned a horse, where diagnosing lameness proved a headache, with months of uncertainty and worry? If you own one of the 40,000 horses that have already been scanned using a Hallmarq Standing MRI the team want to hear from you. Hallmarq MRI has launched a campaign to find the stories behind the cases. If your horse has ever gone lame, you will understand the frustration and worry that comes with it, especially as lameness is notoriously hard to detect. MRI technology has the ability to reveal images of soft internal structures beyond the scope of x-ray and ultrasound. This has revolutionised the way vets can reach an accurate diagnosis. The Hallmarq scanner allows a detailed and carefully targeted investigation into the horse’s limbs to be performed, without having to use a general anaesthetic, so minimum stress is caused. Vets can analyse the images produced to diagnose damage in soft tissues such as tendons, ligaments and the navicular bursa that is undetectable by ultrasound and radiography. MRI also makes contusions and partial fractures visible. Detecting injury early reduces the risk of potentially devastating results. Please send your stories with an image of your horse and contact details to Joanna van den Bos. Email: yourstory@hallmarq.net, post to 1 Doncaster Road, Gunness, North Lincolnshire, DN15 8TG or upload your story to facebook www.facebook.com/HallmarqMRI. Dan and Lawrence have since had a number of successful wins and placings, both nationally and internationally and the seven-year-old chestnut, Santorini, is proving to be a star of the future as he starts his dressage career with much success.

42 | March 2014

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Training Xxxxxxxxxx

Getting ready for the season ahead DAY TO DAY Making sure your horse is healthy all year round isn’t always easy. With variations in forage quality, exercise, worming, weather and if the horse is being stabled or turned out are all important factors to consider in a horses overall wellbeing. Keeping your horse healthy on the inside is the often the best way of ensuring a happy horse. You can help to protect your horse against poor gut health, and boost immune support by simply adding a probiotic supplement to his daily feed. Your horse’s digestive system evolved to function on an almost continuous supply of fibre, predominantly in the form of grass. Modern day equines now spend time indoors, with feed available in a variety of forms and with the rigours of travel and competition, digestive health can become compromised resulting in loss of performance and condition. High starch meals, infrequent feedings, response to chronic pain, parasites, stress, NSAIDS, steroidal drugs and antibiotics can also disrupt the balance of the gut. Equine Premium Gut Balancer from Protexin provides daily immune support delivering a regular supplement of Protexin probiotic and Preplex® prebiotic on a natural alfalfa meal-based powder. Bolstering natural immunity, optimising gut function and improving every-day good health, Gut Balancer is ideal for horses lacking energy and condition. Recommended and used by leading veterinary practices, Protexin Gut Balancer is also a popular choice for stabled horses and those with compromised immunity (e.g. following antibiotic treatment). WORMING Worming may be necessary to keep horse’s parasite free but anthelmintic drugs themselves can actually cause disruption to the horse’s digestion. Jonathan Nelson, Equine Director at Protexin, explains how probiotics help repopulate the gut microflora following worming treatment, and why they are an important consideration along with the usual anthelmintic. Anthelmintic products are a very necessary part of equine management and should be used on a regular basis to keep horse’s worm free. However, recent French research has shown that several different types of wormers significantly affect the microbial population in the hindgut as well as the level of acidity present. This microbial imbalance can lead to several problems such as loss of condition, loose

stools and even sporadic colic following worming. Horses rely on the bacteria in the gut to break down food and extract nutrients, and to maintain their immune system, however, these bacteria are delicate and prone to disruption. Anthelmintic wormers have a ‘scouring’ effect on the gut as they remove the worm burden, but this also leads directly to a disruption of the good bacteria. A probiotic such as Equine Premium Quick Fix given at the same time as the wormer and for a further five days minimises this destructive effect, replenishing the good bacteria and maintaining a stable gut. Horse owners should consider purchasing a probiotic at the same time as they worm horses to avoid any complications and disruption to the gut microflora, particularly if they have a horse that is prone to a mild reaction. COMPETITION Probiotic products authorised for use in horses are safe, have no nutritional or energy value and are compatible with any diet from hard feed to forage. The full Equine Premium range of probiotics are BETA NOPS approved. International Event Rider Piggy French is a fan of Gut Balancer, “We tried the Protexin Gut Balancer on ten of the horses and compared the results to the rest of the yard and I can honestly say those ten have really benefitted from Gut Balancer by comparison, in both holding their condition and they are more settled during a stressful competition schedule; so much so we’ve put the rest on it!” Equine Premium Gut Balancer is available in 400g, 700g, 3.5Kg and 7Kg tubs starting from £15.95. Quick Fix is available in a 30ml syringe priced £9.98. Top event rider Piggy French (PF) talks about her experience with Protexin with Jonathan Nelson (JN), Protexin Equine Premium Director. JN: I was first aware of Piggy’s interest in Protexin following her return from Kentucky in 2010 when she had been advised to try Jakata ( Jaffa) on Protexin; PF: We tried the Protexin Gut Balancer on ten of the horses and compared the results to the rest of the yard and I can honestly say those ten have really benefitted from Gut Balancer by comparison in both holding their condition and they are more settled during a stressful competition schedule; so much so we’ve put the rest on it! Jakata had always been a stressy horse who anticipated and became anxious when he realised he was off to a party. He had not flown before so to ensure his gut remained stable and he kept eating, we started by using the Quick Fix product

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prior to, during and on the way back home. I can honestly say we saw the benefit, and he seemed much more settled than I would have expected. JN: I think it was at that point that Piggy’s Head Groom contacted me and asked if Piggy could try a few horses on our feed supplement version, Gut Balancer, for a couple of months and see how they faired against the rest of the yard. PF: That’s right - we kept Jakata on Gut Balancer and introduced it to some of my other horses. There was a significant improvement in the way that the horses were less stressed and maintained their weight, even during a hectic competition schedule which involves lots of travelling. JN: And what about Jakata? PF: I’m delighted to say that Jaffa keeps improving! He always had a tendency to run up light but now he keeps his weight and maintains a really good top line. Since we’ve used Protexin I can honestly say that Jakata has a much better appetite all of the time. Let’s face it, if you can keep your horse eating you can keep up the work and training. Jakata was the best British horse in 2012 and 2nd at Badminton. JN: I don’t think Protexin in any form is an excuse for poor feeding or management, or an elixir for life as many of these products can be portrayed, but it does make a difference and is different to the regular stuff you’ll find on the shelf. The regular positive feedback that I receive from the professional world underwrites that view, and if it can make the difference between an appetite and no appetite then that’s enough to win! Having said that, there’s no reason why any horse won’t benefit, you don’t have to be heading for Badminton! The Protexin Equine Premium Range comprises of five products; Gut Balancer, Acid Ease, Quick Fix, Recover Aid and Gut Bind. For more information please contact Protexin on 01460 243230 or visit www.equinepremium.com. March 2014 | 43

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News • Healthcare Xxxxxxxxxx

(continued from page 42) problem of abandoned horses as it is today. And, being different in each country, persons thinking of abandoning their animals will simply transport them to the country where the rules are most lenient. While I don’t expect everyone to agree with me, the following suggestions do seem worth thinking about:1. It seems right that the local authority has power to seize any stray or abandoned animals. I think the police should be given the same right. 2. After seizure both should be given the power to leave the animal in the care of the finder or a charity or similar organisation for two months until a search is made for the owner. They should have an obligation to rehome an abandoned horse, rather than just putting the animal for destruction. During that time the charity can explore the possibility of rehoming the animal with a much better chance of success. 3. If any animal is in distress, then the public purse should pay for veterinary help. If the vet deems it necessary any animal may be put down during the initial two months period. The cost of such help can be offset against the proceeds of sale of that animal, or of any other animal. In other words the sale of valuable animals should fund the costs of care of less valuable, or less healthy, animals. 4. After two months, if the animal is unclaimed, then the finder should be offered the animal first. If the horse is worth less than, say, £500, then he should be given it free. If he does not want it, then it should be offered to any interested charity, and only if that is not successful, should it be sent to market (where it may be sold for dog meat) or put down. 5. If the animal is worth more than £500, then it should be offered in the same way as 4 above, but payment of perhaps half its value should be required. This can go to the care of other abandoned horses. 6. Once anyone has been given a horse in the above circumstances, then after a further period of two months, the original owner’s rights should prescribe, effectively giving the new carer actual unchallengeable ownership of the horse. I am not sure what to do about any price given, but a reasonable way of dealing with it can surely be worked out. 7. A temporary passport should be issued when the animal is rehomed or sold after two months, enabling the new keeper to look after it, but not to sell it. After two months, the passport can be made complete, at the same time the original owner’s rights prescribe. This gives the new owner full rights over the animal. Unfortunately neither I nor “Equi-Ads” have power to change the law, but you, our readers, have some influence. Feel free to tear up our magazine to detach this article, and send it to your MP with a covering letter putting your own views. Press them to involve equine charities in some way. If you send us a copy of your letter to your MP, we will print the more interesting ones. And if you get any replies from your MP, do let us know. The fly grazing debate will smoulder on, and I hope I have given readers a few suggestions as to ways of dealing with the problem in a way that is best for the horses and ponies involved.

44 | March 2014

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Keeping Ringworm at bay W

hether you are regularly competing up and down the country, based on a large livery yard or just a single horse owner with your own stables, it is important that you try and protect your horse from infectious diseases. Biosecurity is just that. A simple routine of preventative measures to help protect against bacteria, viruses, spores, vector carriers and fungi, such as ringworm. If you regularly compete and stay over at shows have you ever thought about the infectious diseases that your horse could pick up? When buying a new horse and bringing it home, do you really know where it has come from and if it carries any infectious diseases? Do you really know of everything that lives on your livery yard? What is ringworm? Ringworm is a skin infection caused by a dermatophyte, a skin ‘loving’ fungus that is highly contagious. The fungi which cause ringworm in horses include the Microsporum and Trichophyton species, which can infect not only horses but other animal species, including humans. The skin lesions usually start as small raised spots from which the hair is lost. These spots spread and usually become scurfy or a thick dry crumbly scab may form. Sometimes the lesions are sore and often itchy. In many cases there may only be a couple of lesions but if left untreated and especially if they are spread by grooming, the condition can become extensive. How does it occur? Ringworm is transmitted from horse to horse by direct contact between horses, tack, grooming equipment, clothing, and contact with infested stables or horseboxes. The fungi are quite resistant to environmental factors and can remain on fence railings and timber structures for up to 10 years. The most common method of spread is on tack such as bridles, boots, girths and grooming equipment. The fungi can remain on the skin for up to three weeks before the lesions develop so the disease can be spread before there are signs of infection. By the time the first horse breaks out, it is possible that most horses will be carriers and will break out in the near future, this creates a difficult situation as all areas touched by all horses, staff and equipment in the previous weeks are now likely to be contagious. Younger animals are more likely to be affected than older ones, although all are susceptible. Difficult to eradicate? Many people see ringworm as difficult to eradicate but it is actually very easy to kill. It is usually an oversight of something untreated that creates the impression that it will not die, or the fact that by the time the initial horse breaks out, others are already infected and so in spite of disinfecting, others will still break out. Once a horse carries ringworm it will potentially infect other horses before it is even spotted, either

by direct contact or indirect through communal head collars, wagons, tie up areas, and horse walkers. To help stop an on-going scenario all areas used or used by staff, horses and visitors should be thoroughly disinfected. Top Tips for eradicating Ringworm: • If you have a horse on a busy livery yard, check what measures are already in place for biosecurity. • Use Protek Envirocair Veterinary disinfectant on every surface on the yard and in the horsebox to ensure ringworm does not spread. Include all areas that any horses, staff or visitors have been in contact with for the few preceding weeks to the outbreak. • Don’t forget stables and every exposed area including horse walkers, wash boxes, solariums, treadmills, stocks etc. Pay particular attention to disinfecting door catches where the fungi can easily hide. • Bedding is also susceptible to recontamination and should be sprayed. • Tack rooms, storage rooms and feed rooms. It is a good idea that each horse has their own head collars, tack, grooming brushes and buckets including feed and water buckets. These should be disinfected too including tack cleaning sponges, twitch and chiffneys if you have them. • Haynets, buckets, mucking out equipment, brushes and wheelbarrows will need to be disinfected. Pay particular attention to any handles, almost all staff when mucking out a stable give the horse a pat having held mucking out tools! • All exterior rider clothing and footwear including whips and gloves will need to be treated. • The Protek shampoo allows horses to be cleaned and disinfected, and leaves the horses really soft. It is great on sensitive skin. • All rugs including fly rugs and masks, turnouts, summer and coolers, travel rugs and boots. • Pay particular attention to tie up areas and window frames in horseboxes and all lorry equipment and buckets. • When travelling to shows use Protek Envirocair Veterinary disinfectant spray on stabling and horseboxes to help protect your horse when away from home. • Paddock fencing, gates and rubbing posts such as trees and water troughs will need to be treated. • Clipper blades and associated accessories will also need disinfecting. • All staff, blacksmiths, vets and visitors should use a hand gel to stop cross contaminations, remember they can be contagious before they show signs by which time a groom may have patted every other horse on the yard.

For further information please contact HAYGAIN hay steamers on 0333 200 5233 or www.haygain.com www.equi-ads.com

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News Xxxxxxxxxx

RIDER’S NEWS Mary King Mary King’s year has started in earnest. The horses are now in work preparing for the 2014 event season. Mary’s horses for 2014 are Imperial Cavalier (Archie), MHS King Joules( Jay), King Choice (Lottie) and King Dan(Dan). Her young horses live out and are worked each day from the field, her focus for all the horses is a sound fitness programme involving use of the many steep hills near to their stable yard. There is also lots of trimming, clipping mane and tail pulling and washing as the horses need to be transformed from hairy monsters into smart looking steeds! This is also the time of year for the equine dentist to visit. And they are now planning their event schedule for this year. Mary’s first event is planned for Moreton in Dorset the weekend of the 1st/2nd March 2014 and of course Badminton is planned in for Archie (8th – 11th May 2014). Maher wins $160,000! On January 25th 2014 Ben Maher competed at Wellington, Palm Beach International Equestrian Center, Florida where he guided Cella to win the Fidelity CSI 3* Grand Prix. Ben rode two double clear rounds to win the prize of $125,000, he was one of two double clears with Scott Brash taking second place – a British one-two! Ben had previously given Cella some time off and had also decided earlier in the week to withdraw from the jump off fearing it to be very fast, a great decision to save Cella for the big competition and to win in such style. Earlier in the month he won the Mar-a-Lago Club Grand Prix collecting $35,000, riding Kavannah IV.

Charlotte Dujardin Charlotte Dujardin and Valegro came close to their world record score winning the Reem Acra FEI World Cup Grand Prix Friday in Amsterdam over the weekend of the 24th January 2014 with a score of 85.820 percent, only 0.122 percent below their world record set at the European Championships in Denmark last August. Charlotte and Valegro then went on to win the Grand Prix Freestyle with a fantastic 91.275 percent despite being ‘spooked’ by a camera in the canter work. The performance came just five weeks after the British double Olympic gold medal partnership created a Freestyle world record. Even more impressive is that Charlotte had been working in New Zealand for two weeks prior to the competition and hadn’t sat on Valegro prior to arriving at the competition. Charlotte is now focusing her thoughts towards S’-Hertogenbosch, NED 20th -23rd March. Charlotte will ride her new floor plan and music at this competition. hese new boots offer fantastic protection and support and are lightweight, aerodynamic and offer maximum flexibility and durability. KM ELITE Pro Air Shock Boots are the first choice for many professional show jumpers as they are competition standard and affordable. Air shock tendon (RRP £49-99) and fetlock boots (£RRP £3999) with stud fastenings Available in black/ graphite. www.kmeliteproducts. co.uk Tel 01403 759659.

Body Protector Approved to BETA Level 3, the Hi-Flex Body Protector is great for riders looking for a piece of safety equipment that can be relied on. Highly flexible, created specifically to fit the female body. It is exceptionally comfortable to wear. Available in ladies sizes S – XL, in the colour Black. RRP £86.50. See your local tack shop.

A feeding solution for horses, feeding Hydroponic Barley grass. You will save pounds and improve health & performance of your horse. To find out more go to www.foddersolutions.com Contact Simon for more details on: 0789 3690036

Directory Property Abroad Brittany & Normandy Cardyke Overseas Properties Properties suitable for horses at a fraction of UK prices. Tel: 01775 630 008

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Worming

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Thinking of starting your own equestrian retail business? Then contact us: Hucklesby Associates Equestrian Wholesalers to the trade Tel: 01362 696 309 Fax: 01362 696 582 Email: hucklesbys@aol.com for a free trade e-catalogue Website: www.hucklesbyassociates.co.uk

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Xxxxxxxxxx Training

HORSE BEHAVIOUR - Speaking the language part 20 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 at the First International Equitation Science Symposium, 2005, and an updated version published in ‘Equitation Science’ by McGreevy and McLean, 2010. The glossary description is given in quotation marks, followed by Susan’s discussion.)

BREAK GAIT: ‘The random change from one gait to another that is not under stimulus control.’ Stimulus control is defined in the glossary as: ‘The process by which a response becomes consistently elicited by a signal or cue.’ This means that a horse who breaks gait or ‘falls out of ’ one gait into another, most usually from trot to canter, without being asked to do so by the rider, or handler if not mounted, is not reliably and correctly under the control of the aids (called ‘signals’ or ‘cues’ in equitation science, and which stimulate him or her to perform particular movements). This definition is certainly fine, of course, so far as it goes. However, there are other reasons for a horse to break gait, even a well-trained one, so let’s look at a few of the most common ones. THE RIDER’S SEAT The word ‘seat’ means how you sit on a horse - the position of the various parts of your body, the relaxation and quality of ‘tone’ or control in

your muscles which enables you to maintain your position on a moving horse, and your ability to use your body appropriately to go with or communicate with and influence your horse. It’s fair to say, also, that you are only half-way there without the mental ability to think like a horse, to understand and recognise what alarms him, what confuses him, what enthuses him and what calms him. Because horses think like lightning, it is essential to be aware of your surroundings so that ideally you can pre-empt problems or at least be able to react in a split second to correct them. You also need to be able to time your aids so that your horse will understand them and be in a physical position to respond to them, and not be confused by their being released/ceased too late. The instant you get your response, cease your aid, maintaining the gait or movement by means of your position. If you are serious about riding well and humanely, it is crucial that you acquire a still, moulding, balanced

classical seat, controlled and toned, without stiffness, so you are able to give appropriate aids accurately and at the correct moment, or not give aids at all, let alone make involuntary movements that not only confuse your horse but cause him in all innocence to perform moves you don’t want, and didn’t think you asked for, because he took your movements to be aids. Sensitive, welltrained horses won’t stand for this, and in others it results in dullness, heaviness and slow and incorrect responses because the horse doesn’t understand what’s going on. Many people, and many who should know better, misunderstand the classical seat. Good posture, balance and control have nothing to do with rigidity, being ‘afraid to move’ as an internationally famous trainer once described it to me, or just ‘trying to look pretty’. It’s all about sitting in a balanced position as nearly as possible over your horse’s centre of gravity, so that he will find it as effortless as possible to carry you. You will be less disturbed by his movements, feel stable and safe, and be able to give your aids with less effort and more effect. Acquiring a good, classical seat Most riders find that being put into a balanced, classical seat for the first time feels rather awkward, but remember, anything new feels strange at first. Practice makes perfect and if you genuinely try, and check your own position as you ride, it will soon become a habit, and you should notice a massive improvement in your riding, and in your horse’s behaviour and way of going. Any decent classical trainer can help you sit properly and use your aids well, and I strongly advise that you try to find one. The Classical Riding Club (CRC - see below) has a Trainers Directory listing classical trainers throughout the country although it is only available to members. If you don’t know of any in your area, Google ‘Classical riding lessons trainers … ‘ and your area, and you should find someone. I also recommend that you buy ‘The Classical Seat’ by Sylvia Loch of the CRC which is extremely helpful and goes into the subject, plus a lot more, in great depth. Briefly, the seat is the traditional one which is so often ignored today although everyone has heard of its criteria. When you mount, don’t

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take up your stirrups at first. Allow your legs to drop loosely down your horse’s sides and sit up from the waist, feeling for your seatbones under your torso, which need to be in the central, deepest part of your saddle. You need to sit on your seatbones, NOT your buttocks, aiming for the feeling that you are more standing around your horse than sitting on him. For a reasonable stirrup length, the tread of the stirrup should touch your ankle bone. When you take up your stirrups, keep sitting up on your seatbones, with an expanded chest, shoulders back and down, and let your legs drop down your horse’s sides, their weight being supported on the stirrup treads, which should run straight across under the balls of your feet, the widest part. From the side, an observer should be able to run an imaginary, straight line down from your ear, through your shoulder, through your hip and elbow (which should be held at the side of your hip with your upper arm dropping vertically downward), and on down your horse’s side through your ankle joint. There should be another straight line running from under your elbow, down your forearm, under your wrist and down the rein to your horse’s mouth. Your thumbs should be on top and your little fingers at the bottom of your lightly-formed fist. This is your default position. Practise, practise, practise, ideally on the lunge at first, with a good, classical trainer. Using your aids Generally speaking, where you look, and where you put your weight, your horse will go. Classical riding uses weight aids for direction, by putting a little more weight on one seatbone than the other and perhaps moving it forward a little, depending on what you want. Horses naturally move underneath the weight to keep themselves balanced and stable. Look at your destination, as well, rather than down at your horse, and I can guarantee that you will get there – that is unless you give your horse a contrary aid. For example, if you move, say, your right seatbone forward and weight it (continued on page 52) www.equi-ads.com

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Personality Profile Xxxxxxxxxx

â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Five Minutes With...â&#x20AC;?

Michaela Huntington

Essex-based showjumper Michaela Huntington, the current National Amateur Show Jumping Champion at both 1.10m and 1.15m levels, shares her riding motivations with Equiads... I don't remember a time when I didn't ride. Having parents and an older sister riding just made me want to be part of it all. I was given my first Shetland pony at two years old, and never looked back! As I grew, I was expected to care for my animal myself, and remember standing on crates to groom, tack up and hang haynets! I was taught to drive him in a trap at the same time as riding, and that was such fun... We even had a sled for the snow, which he pulled over the fields; it was a magical time. I do love the thrill of competition and winning, but the very best thing is doing showjumping rounds that are perfect in every beat, where you are as one with the horse. Getting the round right is the very best thing, with such a feeling of achievement, and you know you could not have done better. I've also met so many good friends in the course of my competitive showjumping, and we are all pleased for each other if we do well; the camaraderie is something to treasure. When I am asked what the www.equi-ads.com

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challenges are in terms of horse riding, I do dislike the winter weather; and not having an indoor school, and driving lorries in bad conditions. The cold dark winter evenings can be difficult and there's never enough daylight to do everything! But the winter months give way to positive spring weather, and the promise of a new season. In terms of riders I like to watch, I do admire Canadian Eric Lamaze, who reaches such understanding with all his rides; but he and the late, great horse 'Hickstead' made such an incredible partnership and this was his horse of a lifetime. A great horse needs to be special in so many ways. For example, bravery and the ability to be careful; the heart to give you their best; the attitude to want to help you; the conformation to make the job easy; and the ability to stay sound. Of course, they also need great technique over a fence! My new horse Alegro Z has many of these attributes - we recently won the Winter Novice class at Addington in a class of 76, qualifying for the Main Arena at Hickstead, the Royal International Show later this year, so I have high hopes for her. My advice to would-beshowjumpers, or any competitive riders, is to never give up. Expect setbacks and work hard; keep the dream. When you fall, get back up there! Learn true grit and grim determination; always believe in yourself.

II lovecouldnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t live without... my range of riding boots from Taurus Footwear,

www.taurusfootwear.co.uk, especially my Lancer long boots, which have great ankle support and a narrow calf option available. Great for long days at shows! Plus I am never without my RS-tor rider safety aid, a simple device that attaches to the saddle and may be used in affiliated showjumping contests; it is ideal for young or spooky horses, as it is a fall-prevention aid. Visit www.rstor.co.uk. March 2014 | 47

21/02/2014 17:51

Ssanyong Korando rts EXT

Transport Xxxxxxxxxx

his vehicle is one of the largest pickups on the British market that isn’t a grey import from the USA. Able to tow anything up to 2,300 Kg so your horsebox won’t be a problem. Powered by a two litre diesel giving about 150bhp coupled to a six speed manual gearbox this pickup has ample power for any situation. My one issue with the vehicle is the position of the handbrake lever situated on the passenger side of the centre console, it was awkward and not easy to operate. You get five comfortable leather seats, the front two are heated as standard, always a plus for my wife, also in leather you get a leather bound steering wheel and gear knob. You don’t buy a pickup of this size for its ability to sip the fuel carefully as it returns a combined consumption figure of 37.7mpg and that’s not with it towing. There is a full rear canopy, air conditioning, drivers seat electrically adjustable as are the mirrors, rear parking sensors and a load deck liner. Optional extras in my test vehicle was the Kenwood DAB touch-screen sat nav, mp3 CD/DVD with iPod and bluetooth connectivity at a cool £999,00. Metallic paint at £400.00 and fixed towbar at £460.00 all added up to the test vehicle coming in at £21,495, good value I thought! On the road you certainly feel the weight of this pickup with some roll in the bends and not the quickest vehicle in acceleration. When negotiating the rough stuff the Korando has selectable transmission, 2X4, 4X4 high and 4X4 low ratio giving you excellent control. No need for eventers any embarrassment being towed out with all the banter that goes with it. If you keep your foot down and don’t worry about a speeding ticket then this massive vehicle will reach, the company claim, 107mph, not to be recommended. Needless to say, I can’t confirm this claim. For those who want a load carrier you get 1,312 litres of load volume up to the top of the load space which is 1600mm wide and 1,275mm long, between

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the wheel arches there is 1,050mm. Remove the rear canopy and you can carry taller items. Prices for those who don’t want to shell out for high grade sound system, metallic paint and a towbar start at a modest, for the type of vehicle, £18,295. Although those who do need this sort of truck will need the towbar so will pay £18,754. I liked the Korando, it has useful power, carrying capacity both for people and your tack and attached on the back, your horse.

Engine Type 4 In Line Diesel Capacity 2,000cc Ps 155 @ 4000rpm Torque 360Nm @ 1500 - 2800rpm

On the Road Price £18,295, as tested £21,495 Specification: -

Fuel Consumption Urban 29.4mpg Extra Urban 44.1mpg Combined 37.7mpg Brakes Ventilated Discs Front Solid Rear+ ABS Steering Power Assisted Rack & Pinion Dimensions: Overall Length 4990mm Overall Width 1910mm Height 1790mm Wheelbase 3060mm 1275mm Load Space Length Load Space Width 1600mm Between Arches 1050mm Load Internal Height 750mm Gross Vehicle Weight 2740Kgs Payload 630Kgs Max Trailer Weight Unbraked 750Kgs Max Trailer Weight Braked 2300Kgs Kerb Weight 2097Kgs Tyre Size 255/60 R18 Fuel tank capacity 75Litres Road tax Band J = £475.00 Insurance Group 6E

Gearbox Transmission

6 Speed Manual

Performance Top Speed

107mph

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21/02/2014 17:51

Results

Cash Jumping league tables Riders Winnings – 60cms Ponies Reg No Rider Horse / Pony Winnings P0716 Tillie Ball Rockwood Lulu 40 P0793 Caroline Barbour Amazing Mayzee 30 P0424 Phoebe Jefferies Brook 20 P0736 P0715 P0820

Annabelle Allen Tillie Ball Lauren venables

Charlie Billie Whizz Pondhead Freespirit Spinway Dream

20 10 10

P0811 Gabriella Spencer 10 Riders Winnings – 70cms Ponies Reg No Rider Horse / Pony Winnings P0012 Emma Jones Twinkle 50 P0795 Caroline Barbour Amazing Mayzee 35 P0424 Phoebe Jefferies Brook 35 P0316 Beth Hepple Sheridans Star 30 P0061 Aniela Stevenson Ziggy VI 25 P0753 Becky Riches King Charles 20 P0145 Katie Benbow My Lucky Penny 20 P0405 Nicole Southern Cookie 20 P0035 Robyn Woodward Brookhall 20 Pavoroti P0264 Ashley Hardy Steve Boy 15 P0604 Leah Harrison Bercoed Leisa Jen 15 P0792 George Williams Murphys Magic 10 P0770 Sam Martin Lakeland Little 10 Star P0783 Paige Wright Stainsby Star10 burst P0712 Georgia Brady Glenmore 5 Trabonelad P0752 Libby Wernham Pretty Princess 5 Posh P0672 Tara Foster Cherokee 5 Riders Winnings – 80cms Ponies Reg No Rider Horse / Pony Winnings P0793 Caroline Barbour Amazing Mayzee 40 P0756 Katie Vaughan Portia 35 P0600 Harriet Keenleyside Millfords Grace 35 and Favour P0744 Georgia Tracey Silver Dollar 30 P0351 Toni Evans Hermione V 30 P0087 Issie Porter Taboo 25 P0413 Issie Porter Nutfields Just 25 Madonna P0291 Hattie Bundy Kizzy 25 P0368 Alex Chirnside Pebbly Dun 25 Nicely P0061 Annelia Stevenson Ziggy VI 25 P0795 Georgia Mason EvangelineII 20 P0803 Faye Johnson Fernbeck Louise 20 P0603 Leah Harrison Bowes Tokyo 20 Drift P0195 Ellie Pigrome Westfords Find20 ing Colour P0807 Will Lewis Lottie Reine 15 Raptor P0808 Freya Cox Laneys Man 15 P0002 Amy O’Brien Special D 15 P0280 Charlie Barrett Spice 15 H0603 Lewis Downer Mojo 10 P0145 Katie Benbow My Lucky Penny 10 P0003 Amy O’Brien Montana Mollie 10 P1076 Yasmin Qureshi Bart 10 P0403 Nicol Southern Cookie 10 P0752 Alice Barnes On Red Bull 5 P0672 Tara Foster Cherokee 5 P0755 Michaela Holding Its Just Abbie 5 Riders Winnings – 90cms Ponies Reg No Rider Horse / Pony P0003 Amy O’Brien Special Dee P0351 Toni Evans Hermione V P0053 Jordan Woodward Comeytrowe Dione P0673 Amy Foster Red Shelley P0795 Georgia Mason Evangeline II P0513 Dempsey Wharton Robe Silver Lady P0809 Freya Cox Kool n Calm P0502 Rhys Lewsey Nytons Master Velvet P0002 Amy O’Brien Special Dee P0516 Isabella Pindur Steady Neddy Riders Winnings – 1m Ponies Reg No Rider Horse / Pony P0003 Amy O’Brien Special Dee

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Winnings 15 25 25 20 15 15 10 10 10 5 Winnings 15

Riders Winnings – 60cms Horses Reg No Rider Horse H2928 Emma Louise Dolly Mixtures Turner H2895 Rachael Ruine Rosie Red H2909 Jessica Boland Raharneys Little Star H2887 Bethany Longhurst Drumalga Dolly

Winnings 30 20 10 5

Riders Winnings – 70cms Horses Reg No Rider Horse / Pony Winnings H2364 Jade Short Maximuss Allwin 60 H0771 Jade Wood A Missing 55 Colour H0734 Alex Lockey Foxy Fagan 50 H1204 Monica Ballard Slowly Does It 50 H2506 Sarah Firban Declan 45 H2645 Rebecca Jones Jamaicas Way 2 45 H2525 Jimmy Clarke Carlos 40 H0344 Hollie Leathem Million Dollar 40 Pony H1301 Jane Abraham Digris 35 H2876 Hannah Raspin Tysull Lucinda 30 H2769 Hope Elliott Bright Prospect 30 H2918 Clare Drury Welyn Vogue 25 H1469 Billie Jo Bland Berry Red 25 H2841 Lauren Burt Wyraine 20 H0493 Anneli Larrson I’m a Bird 20 H2725 Lorna Simpson Warrington 20 Roberto H2940 Vicky Stevenson Enchanter 15 H2712 Lorna Barlow Nancy 15 H2832 Nicola Harris Max 15 H0721 Helen Swailes Bright Prospect 15 H1332 Hayley Ward Noel 15 H0327 Fiona Christian Tara III 10 H0922 Lyndesey Radcliffe Pandemonium 10 Pete H2815 Rebecca Melling Windrush 10 H2836 Toni Bishop Glenfields High 10 Flier H0817 Debbie Riley Okie Dokie 10 H2707 Helen Swailes Lady Sweetwall 5 Riders Winnings – 80cms Horses Reg No Rider Horse / Pony Winnings H0523 Brooke Roberts – Mercuri 72 Morgan H1869 Melissa Thorpe A Dash of Spice 63 H2724 Lauren Burt Sarim Golden 57 McCoy H1202 Monica Ballard My Amazing 48 Grace H2787 Toni Burrows Dance on V U 47 H1734 Alex Locky Foxy Fagan 40 H1781 Fiona Wood Harvey 40 H1042 Dinah Smith Culmore JJ 40 H2934 Mia Vazquez Kinard All Star 40 H1554 Sophie Corney Gooig Spirit 40 H1745 Melissa Thorpe Lighthearted II 38 H0817 Debbie Riley Okie Dokey 35 H0392 Leon Rowe Baldasar 35 H2631 Hannah Dakers Ullswater 32 H1792 Charlie Toon Henley 30 H0344 Holly Leathem Million Dollar 30 pony H1837 Sharon Garner Shikari 30 H2707 Helen Swailes Lady Sweetwall 30 H0771 Jade Wood A Missing 30 Colour H1746 Jane Abraham Digris 28 H2525 James Clarke Carlos 25 H2788 Amanda Philips Lady Gin 25 H0327 Fiona Christian Tara III 23 H0545 Helen Swailes Lux Jazzy 20 H2919 Clare Drury Au Contaire 15 H2907 Emily Thompson Rosie 15 H2685 Emily Statham Apollos Tara 15 Noir H0566 Adrian Bramelly Vainqueur 15 H2244 Scarlett Baker Mister Dyanmite 15 H2746 Laura Whitfield Irish Platinum 15 Pleasure H2742 Michelle McDonald Croft in Touch 10 H2678 Abbey Perry Destiny 10 H0493 Anneli Larrson I’m a Bird 10 H2906 Debbie Fryatt Ozzie Monster 10 H0859 Nicki Pow Utaura III 10 H2758 Jade Wood Charlies Angels 5 II H1323 Micki Corner Jetski 5

Riders Winnings – 90cms Horses Reg No Rider Horse / Pony H0545 Helen Swailes Lux Jazzy H1172 Sophie Pollard Eire Monsoon H1488 Kerry Watts Dinha II H1745 Melissa Thorpe Lighthearted II H0866 Nicola Attenborrow Unimo H1371 Natalie Triggs TempleDervish H0077 Sonya Roe J.A.’s Malacoff H0558 Eloise Howell Mirankula II H2364 Jade Short Maximuss Allwin H1742 Melissa Thorpe Bob Harley H0859 Nicki Pow Utaurah H2935 Mia Vazques Kinard All Star H1553 Sophie Corney Ocean Breeze II H1637 Verity Wise Anderida Apollo H0722 Briony Clarke Jacks House H2723 Jess Leach Anieta H1734 Alex Lockey Foxy Fagan H2707 Helen Swailes Lady Sweetwall H0655 Abbie Hall Clogher H2879 Katie Benbow Ruby St Loise H2892 Chantelle Nijie Your Best Buddie H2898 Angela Williams Birthday Boy H2839 Jane McInerney Oliver Twist H1042 Dinah Smith Culmore JJ H0822 Georgian Lambley Chuarin Delight H0516 Isabella Pindur Steady Neddie H1248 Noel Mcormack Ho Courageous H2746 Lora Whitfield Irish Platinum Pleasure H2787 Toni Burrows Dance on V U H1781 Fiona Wood Harvey H0195 Sarah Blakey Ferndales Summer Breeze H2837 Samantha Jimmison Davincis Alexia H2450 Pippa Moon GRC Clover H1750 Hayley Dyson Rosehill Riders Winnings – 1m Horses Reg No Rider Horse / Pony H0545 Helen Swailes Lux Jazzy H2893 Sonja Page Solar Flare H1374 Sophie Pollard Eire Monsoon H1371 Natalie Triggs TempleDervish H2760 Caroline Jenks Just Joking H0558 Eloise Howell Mirankula II H2754 Kallum Fletcher Kaylees Lady H1372 Lorna Simpson Master Van De Barrier H2723 Jess Leach Anieta H1553 Sophie Corney Ocean Breeze II H0655 Abbie Hall Clougher H1373 Melissa Thorpe MT’S Rhythm & Blues H0565 Adrian Bramelly Midget Gem H0770 Jade Wood Westford Lenny H2860 Lisa Jones Alanya H2030 Katya Visser Whitney H2824 Shelley Anthony Pristina Van Hetru H2243 Scarlett Baker Matarique H0061 Rachel Chisnell Skip a Beat H1375 Jake Ward Natimanan Het Wolsji H2747 Lora Whitfield Lamancas H2703 Katie Hickling Twiggy Craft H1783 Fiona Wood Arigna Girl H2663 Grace Maher Acorde Riders Winnings – 1m10 Horses Reg No Rider Horse H2924 Mark Stubbs Bio Force H2824 Shelley Anthony Pristina Van Hetru H0655 Abbie Hall Clogher H2861 Vicky Cooper Occupation H2925 Mark Stubbs Cortewalle H2747 Lora Whitfield Lamancas H1825 Lauren Betteridge Zakareya II Riders Winnings – 1m20 Horses Reg No Rider Horse / Pony H0163 Vicky Cooper Caspen Retto

Winnings 95 86 71 63 53 48 45 40 38 36 35 35 35 30 25 25 25 25 25 25 25 15 15 15 15 10 10 10 10 10 10 5 5 5 Winnings 70 65 55 40 30 30 30 30 30 30 20 20 20 15 15 15 15 15 10 10 10 10 10 10 Winnings 45 30 20 15 15 15 10 Winnings 20

March 2014 | 49

21/02/2014 17:51

Healthcare

Straight from the horse’s mouth By Kathy Carter W

e scour the equestrian world for news and views on nutrition and veterinary matters, to give you the latest information. Cribbing solution? Crib biting - a so-called equine stereotypy or vice that most owners consider a major flaw, and a health risk to our horses. But would you consider putting your horse through surgery to combat it? In an article by Erica Larson on America’s online portal thehorse.com, it was proposed by Professor Daniel J. Burba, of America’s Louisiana State University School of Veterinary Medicine, that laser surgery that restricts the ability of the horse’s larynx to retract could halt the condition. “I believe [the surgery] alleviates the ability of the horse to retract its throat during the act [of cribbing], thus the horse does not get satisfaction. [After surgery] they are unable to adequately retract the larynx, thus become ‘discouraged’, and no longer try to crib bite,” the professor explained at the 2013 American Association of Equine Practitioners’ Convention, held in December last year. Burba’s surgical procedure involves using a laser to remove specific muscles and cut the spinal accessory nerve of the throat, and has been called ‘laser-assisted revised modified

Forssell’s procedure’. In a study by the professor, 84.4% of the horses studied stopped cribbing for at least one year following the procedure, although the surgery had lower success rates in horses that had been cribbing for more than three years prior to surgery. The laser surgery does have its limitations, as post-surgery complications do occur, and reduced performance is a potential outcome; however the results of the study are extremely promising. Sole to sole The Equine Veterinary Journal has published a study on hoof sole penetration injuries - eg punctures to the sole of the foot, ranging from the farrier’s accidental nail pricks to external foreign objects that are trodden on. British vet Judith Findley of the University of Liverpool studied injuries involving the joints and bursa of the equine foot, and analysed data from 95 horses that had suffered penetrating injuries to the coffin joint, navicular bursa, or digital flexor tendon sheath. Findley found that injuries to the centre of the frog had worse outcomes than those at either side of the frog, and that the more ‘hardy’ equine types such as cobs, drafts and ponies were more likely to return to pre-injury levels of athletic function than Thoroughbreds, Warmbloods, and Arabians. Interestingly, just 36% of horses in the study returned to full performance ability, indicating just how serious injuries to the foot can be. “Solar foot penetrations involving the joints are potentially life-threatening,” said Findley. “Foot penetrations located in the region of the frog in particular should be treated as potentially serious, and should be investigated by a vet.” Nutritional know how Exertional rhabdomyolysis, Azoturia, Tying up - all terms for a spectrum of muscle disorders that are shown in the horse as muscle cramping, soreness, or a reluctance to move, and can in some cases become very serious. Physiologically, the condition is linked to excess lactic acid build up in the muscles. It has been proposed that nutrition and diet have a major part to play in preventing the symptoms from presenting themselves, and

Special offer ‘ itch care pack’ S weet itch – a life sentence! Sweet itch It is an allergic reaction to the saliva in the bite of the Culicodes midge, much like many humans experience. Once bitten an allergic reaction will occur causing a horse or pony to itch, subsequently damaging the skin, particularly to the mane and tail areas making it appear quite unsightly. Sweet Itch can be the mostly ghastly irritant to horses and ponies throughout the summer months.

Day 2 50 | March 2014

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But with the onset of an early spring more horses than ever are showing early symptoms of the dreaded itch. Which is why Forest Farmacy have put together a Special ‘sweet itch’ care pack formulated to combat seasonal itching. Adding Forest Farmacys ‘skin power’ to feed once a day, stops the itch from the inside out. It boosts immunity and increases resistance to fly and midge bites. It quickly stops all itching, it’s a fast acting powerful antioxidant, which cleanses the blood, removes

Day 5

that Selenium and Vitamin E in particular are key nutrients for horses prone to this condition. Experts suggest that Selenium helps combat damage to the muscle cells from free radicals. So, a horse with a Selenium deficiency may have to work harder to recover and ‘detox’ the muscles after exertion. Vitamin E also plays a ‘cellular defense’ role, preventing free radical damage, and the two nutrients work synergistically together. Any performance horse at risk of Tying up should have a diet that is optimised for Selenium and Vitamin E, it is proposed. However, as all horses’ diets vary according to their forage and grass content, and their individual diets, it is advisable to seek advice from your feed company helpline or an independent equine nutritionist. Look out for more advice and info at www.equi-ads.com

toxins and soothes irritations and allergic reactions. By using ‘Quassia anti itch spray,’ you can see results in days, Stops itching and rubbing and best of all contains no deet, only natural ingredients. Rapid Regrowth cream will encourage rapid hair growth on bald spots. Three easy steps to maintaining an itch free horse this spring. ‘ itch care pack from Forest Farmacy is at special price £85 normal RRP is normally £107

Day 21

It contains 100 days ‘skin power’ herbal supplement, Quassia anti itch spray and Rapid regrowth cream. Janice Pegler said’ I have started using the skin power on my mare and since using it she has been no where near as itchy, i will definitely be keeping her on it. The difference is amazing!” Lynne Kelly said “we use your itch care pack, she has been clear all year round”

For more information tel: 0800 970 9421 or visit: www.forestfarmacy.com

Day 28 www.equi-ads.com

21/02/2014 17:51

SARCOIDS? ALKALISING THE SKIN CAN SOLVE THE PROBLEM POWER AGAINST SAR-X #1 ORGANIC SUPPLEMENT “It has now completely gone!”

“My 7 year old gelding developed a medium sized lump on his belly. I did not want to go down the route of treatment advised by my vet. I started to feed him the powder 10 weeks ago and it has completely gone. His hair has grown back and you would never know it had been there. I am so pleased; I cannot praise the powder enough!” Ruth Mitchell

POWER AGAINST SAR-X IS 100% SAFE FOR HORSES WITH NO SIDE EFFECTS. PLUS ALL INGREDIENTS WILL NOT VIOLATE COMPETITION RULES.

POWER AGAINST SAR-X 6 week supply £35 3 month supply £65 SARCOID CARE PACK £80 For a free consultation ring now: 0800 970 9421 Free calls from a mobile: 0330 100 5266 Email: help@horsesarcoids.com

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21/02/2014 17:51

Training

STNEMELPPUS MUIMERP

happens, the rider keeps on nagging with legs or spurs to keep the horse going fast when he is already doing so. Confusion and experiencing constant, opposing aids – such as being driven on by the legs but, in the horse’s mind, simultaneously being told to slow down by the hard bit contact – are major causes of ‘bad’ behaviour such as so-called evasions and resistances (in effect, self-defence), similarly bucking, rearing, napping and generally LACK OF FITNESS and STRENGTH Even if you maintain the right position and action ‘exploding’ (see my recent article on ‘blowingup’). to maintain your chosen gait, a young, green Breaking gait indicates a pressured horse, due or unfit horse, not forgetting old ones, may not to any of the topics discussed above. It is not be strong, agile or fit enough to do so, and will appropriate to punish a horse for it, but to seek have to break gait downwards. (He’s only likely some ethical, effective training advice. A well to move up to a faster5 gait if he is fresh, or a bit 9.32£ )tnemelppus tnout ioj decnavda( AH XELF REIMERP balanced horse strong and fit enough for the work anxious and his flight-or-fight response is starting fit E rider have to kick in, unless something 59.6nearby 2£ has)startled walc sliverequired, d htiw(ridden SULbyPanXeducated, ELF R IMwill ER P no reason to break gait. him, of course.) So, know your horse, 59his.9level 1£of training ylno )rFURTHER ecnalab deef( ETELPMOC 563 INFORMATION: and his physical condition, and don’t ask for Th e Classical more technique or eff5 ort than he can deliver. 9.51£ ylno ertiL 1Riding ETUClub TIT(www.classicalriding. SBUS ETUB co.uk), the International Society for Equitation A balanced rider and a good, basic fitness programme will do him 59all.8the2£good in the world.ylppScience us ya(www.equitationscience.com), d 54 gk1 ROIRRAWEquiSci DUM for the UK (www.equitationscience.co.uk), the It’s far better to ask for and accept a little work Equine Behaviour Centre (www.aebc. done well than to push 0 the5issue, .5£ ask for too gAustralian 002 MA ERC ROIR RAW DUM org.au) and the Equine Behaviour Forum (www. much and have him almost forced to break gait. This will upset most horses 99.2and 2£give them gk2a bad )ppus fequinebehaviourforum.org.uk). ooh( ETIRUOVAF SAlso, REfollow IRRup AF impression of the work, which does not augur well the links and publications on each site. for a co-operative performance 59.62£in future. gk2 )s(Th etyelEquine ortcelBehaviour e( SETForum YL Rpublished EIMEthe RP full glossary in its magazine ‘Equine Behaviour’. copy, sendD aE cheque £3.50 GOING TOO FAST 59.21£ )!paehc( For g0your 05 M SM LLIfor TS ID payable ERUP to ‘Equine Behaviour Forum’ to the Editor, Dr This is a very common error and problem with Stonelaws Linton, modern, conventionally 59trained .22£horses and ponies Alison sertiAveris, l 5 LI6O DEECottages, SNIL East NIG RIV East Lothian, EH40 3DX.) and their riders. A couple of decades or so back, the idea became established that ‘forward’ meant ‘fast’ and we have since seen poor horses being SUSAN McBANE has an HNC in Equine Science YLNO and Management, is a Classical Riding Club listed drilled almost as fast go,4(particularly )yas lppthey us hcan tnom AH xelfREIMERP !!99.14trainer £ and Gold in trot, round and round schools all over the Award holder, co-founder of country, under saddle or on the lunge. the Equine Behaviour Forum and a Practitioner ?xelF reSociety imerPfor esEquitation oohC yhW The correct and original meaning of ‘forward’ is Member of the International lsuomtoroobey ne rethe ffid rider’s yeht tcaf nScience. i ,emasAuthor eht eraofs44 tnebooks, melppshe us tisniaojco-publisher eniuqe lla toofN that the horse is instantly yready aids, even if they mean ‘please lessons tnioj ygo tilabackward’ uq pot A .-mor eht ni d‘Tracking-up’ eniatnoc stn(see eideadvert rgni evthis itcaissue). eht foFor sle vel ehand t ni sideways! It is similar to atoday’s expression si hcihw enimas‘on oculG fo leclinics vel doin ogand a ynear lno tLancashire, on niatnoc ring dluo01254 hs tne705487 melppus the aids’. It was an unfortunate choice of word or email horses@susanmcbane.com .MSM dna AH ,nitiordnohC fo slevel hgih osla tub tneidergni paehc ylevitaler in the first place, but now it has mutated into !yadoto t tnany emhorse, elppus tnioj eniuqe ceps tsehgih eht ylbissop si xelF reimerP ‘relentlessly fast’, which is no good pony or rider. Equine biomechanics tells us that the faster a horse goes the more* weight is borne by the forehand, and those precious forelegs and feet – yet all good training is supposed to strengthen a horse to enable him to carry more weight on the hindquarters. It doesn’t make sense and is potentially injurious. Neither will speed assist lengthening of stride or, when the horse is ready, extended gaits. YLNO )ylppus syad 04( AMLAC Extension must not be taught before cadence ! ! 99.92£ and then good collection have been achieved, and extension is not achieved speed txeby ne ht ot but stcuby dorp gnimlac eniuqe sekat dna tcudorp tsetal ruo si amlaC a lengthening of stride withsgood lacituengagement ecartuen fo noitalumrof euqinu a sesu amlaC srewsnA eniuqE .level of the quarters, as is also required in collection. .tcudorp gnimlac evitceffe ylgnizama na edivorp ot sbreh gnimlac laiceps dna All this should be done in balance and in true e lbanatural, brosba metronomic fo smrof tseb yrev eht desu evah ew amlaC gnitalumrof nI lightness, within the horse’s taht dmodern nuof eWway .CA isengaPatent M ni m uisengam rhythm, not in the often-seen ofA muisengaM dna etatrapsA muPetrie Elegance quickened, rushed strides, intiw front gnhorse imlac held terceup s h muisengam fo smrof ytilauq hgBoot ih owRRP: t ese£725.00 ht gninibmoc and forelegs flicking out as if the horse is ‘shooting.noitalumrof gnimlac elbissop tseb eht su evag sbreh his cuffs’, as Nuno Oliveira aptly described it. na edam sah ti...tnemelppus siht gnitaerc rof uoy knaht ot ekil tsuj dluoW“ From a behaviour standpoint, being pushed to "nwo ot legna na esrohecar-xe elbaticxe go faster than is natural or comfortable for a horse shtiffirG eyaF is upsetting and even distressing. Because horses easily become unbalanced when going too fast, riders ‘hold them together’ (euphemistically called ‘supporting with the bit’) with a hard, unyielding bit contact, which distresses them even more. No wonder so many horses trained, or rather abused, in this way are screwed up. It is also confusing, and therefore bad practice, when, as normally Other imbalances such as collapsing at the hip, riding crookedly, being ‘behind or in front of the movement’ and similar issues can be helped simply by being observed by a knowledgeable friend, but also with the help of a good classical trainer. A horse always feels less stable with an unbalanced rider, and breaking gait is one way in which he expresses his anxiety.

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era sesroh eht nevE !su tuoba gniklat (continued from page 46) a little (by ‘stepping down into your right stirrup’, as described by Sylvia Loch), but have too much contact on your left rein, your horse may not know which aid to obey and may not go right. With some horses, even looking in the wrong direction (left in this case rather than where you are going) will cause a hesitation and an apparent non-compliance with your weight aid. Many breaks from one gait to another are caused by the rider asking for a particular gait but then not maintaining the correct body position and seat action to keep it going. Therefore, the horse thinks that a change is required but isn’t sure what to do, so drops down a gear. If you are in rising trot, say, keep up a clear rise and good rhythm until you want to change. To walk, stop rising, give your horse a ‘slow down’ aid with the bit, and assume a seat movement to accord with walk. If you move your seat gently with him as he walks, he should continue to walk and neither stop nor move up a gait. In canter, your inside seatbone should be held a little further forward than your outside one, not only to help with the transition into canter but to act as a clear instruction to the horse to keep cantering on that leg – so, right seatbone forward all the time in right canter, left seatbone forward all the time in left canter. To ask for a downward transition to trot, simply give a gentle but clear ‘slow down’ aid with the bit and return your inside seatbone level with the outside one, and he will trot.

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UNBALANCED RIDER The expression ‘going with’ your horse often leads riders to lean in on bends, which unbalances a horse and can easily cause him to break gait if not actually bring him down. Always try to ‘keep one seatbone on either side of his spine’, as it were, and sit upright when turning, using your seat aid for direction and supporting with the outside rein sideways on the neck, plus an inviting open inside rein.

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52 | March 2014

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