Horsescene september

FR E

Your free NATIONAL magazine

What to look for in a bag of compound horse feed

Verticals and how to jump them

September 2013

Arena Geometry Tips on how to ride a perfect test

Banish mud fever Products to help treat this condition

ng Maintaini control es

IN • W IN •W

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worth o prizes up f for grabs!

WIN •W IN •

Over

£4,000

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IN • W •W IN

Tips to keep your stable and yard clean and tidy

IN

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WIN IN • •W

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in open s

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Inside this issue...

Contact Horse Scene

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Horse talk news, gossip and updates

Post: 9 Maple Grove, Welwyn Garden City, Herts AL7 1NQ Telephone: 01707 880170

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Legal scene the pitfalls of purchasing a horse

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Verticals and how to jump them

Horse Scene Team kate@horsescenemagazine.co.uk charlotte@horsescenemagazine.co.uk info@horsescenemagazine.co.uk

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Letter Scene your views & experiences in the equine world

Subscriptions & Back Issues T: 01707 880170 E: subscribe@horsescenemagazine.co.uk

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How clean should your stable and yard be?

Find out with our helpful article

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WIN brilliant Absorbine products

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Maintaining control in open spaces

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WIN a tub of LifeForce Focus and Alltech branded saddlecloth

Contributing writers Zoe Davies B&W Equine Group KK Equestrian Laura Sanders Joanna Baxter Warren Lamperd DWF Equine Cover image John Tyrrell of BigTimeMedia Published By Horse Scene Magazine is published

by KCD Publishing. All contents are copyright. All rights are reserved.

No part of this publication may be copied, stored or transmitted in any form without prior written permission from the publisher.

Whilst every effort is made to ensure accuracy, no responsibility can be accepted however caused.

Contributed material does not necessarily reflect the opinion of the publishers. The Editorial policy and general layout of this publication are at the discretion of the publisher. No responsibility can be accepted for articles, photographs or illustrations whilst in transmission with the publishers.

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New on the scene new products to the equine market

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What to look for in a bag of compound feed

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Tack talk using an older saddle

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Token frenzy collect your 2nd token

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Arena geometry tips on how to ride a correct test

30

Banish mud fever products to help treat this condition

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WIN lots of giveaways up for grabs!

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Vet on the scene stifle issues

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Strike a pose! A day modelling for Mountain Horse

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On trial read our product testing reviews

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Tackroom break relax with our puzzles

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Horsetalk SMS ‘Fit for Purpose’ Awareness Day

Are you fit, is your horse fit, does your saddle fit?

How often do you hear riders say – “I must lose weight and get fitter,” “My horse is just not fit enough,” or “My saddle seems to move.” An informative and forward thinking awareness day has been developed by the Society of Master Saddlers to educate riders, owners, student vets and trainers about the importance of saddle fit and fitness of the horse and rider.

The ‘Fit for the Purpose’ day takes place on Saturday, October 19 at The Unicorn Equestrian Centre, Netherswell, Stowon-the-Wold.

Looking at your horse’s fitness, the SMS will help you understand the difference between conformation and condition.

Meanwhile focussing on the saddle, experts will look at how to assess your horse’s back in preparation for saddle fitting. Well known saddler expert Ian Hastilow will be chairing this exciting day which has just 100 places available – book your ticket today!

Speakers include Dodson & Horrell Nutritionist, Louise Jones BSc, MSc, R. Nutrition; ‘Ride with Your Mind’ Instructor/Coach, Dorothy Marks; Vet, Jane Nixon MA VetMB BSc MRCVS; SMS Veterinary Consultant, Stewart Hastie BVMS MRCVS; Winston Williams, BSc (Hons) MMCA IVCA MRCC and Emma Phillips, BSc (Hons) MMCA IVCA MRCC who will look at chiropractics for the horse and human. There will also be a range of Saddle Work Stations to provide advice, practical knowledge and experience. These include help on saddle panels and construction; recognising the difference between quality and inferior saddles; types of tree and broken trees; and saddle safety.

Tickets are £60 and include refreshments, lunch and a goody bag.

To book your place contact Hazel Morley on 01449 711642 or email enquiries@mastersaddlers.co.uk

4 HorseScene

Abandoned foal Teddy celebrates his 1st Birthday after making a miraculous recovery A foal who was left to die on the side of the road at only 8-weeks old, recently celebrated his 1st birthday after making a miraculous recovery. Teddy was found starving and abandoned, alone, without his mother, on a busy roadside in Buckinghamshire in September 2012. He was rescued by Thames Valley Police and brought to The Horse Trust. Teddy was nearly another tragic victim of the national horse crisis.

Like many other young colt foals he had little monetary value and was cruelly taken from his mother and abandoned. Tiny Teddy was so ill after his ordeal that he was rushed to the Royal Veterinary College where he spent weeks in intensive care. His chances of survival were slim but Teddy never gave up his fight for life. Life is lonely for an orphaned foal, but 36 year old Shetland Pony George took on the important role of being Teddy’s best friend and role model. Gorgeous George taught him how to be a pony.

Thanks to months of specialist care by his vets and the dedication of staff at The Horse Trust Teddy gradually began to recover. Teddy’s struggle for life won the hearts of everyone who met him as well as a legion of dedicated fans, who followed his fight for survival on Facebook. Teddy even has dedicated sponsors who help pay for his care. Teddy is now a happy, healthy and cheeky young pony and this week was joined by some of his friends, sponsors and supporters to celebrate his 1st Birthday at The Horse Trust. Jeanette Allen, Chief Executive of The Horse Trust said, "Teddy’s story is inspirational to us all. No-one thought this tiny foal would survive, there was even a moment when he lay with his head on my lap and I thought he had breathed his last. But, thanks to the specialist treatment, round-the-clock care and Teddy’s incredible spirit he now has a bright future. Teddy’s recovery was only possible thanks to the generosity of members of the public who make donations to The Horse Trust to help pay for his treatment and care. We are so grateful to everyone who helped give Teddy a second chance at life".

If you would like to give Teddy the perfect birthday present sign up and sponsor him from just £2 per month. Sponsors receive a personalised certificate, fact sheet, Teddy photo, regular updates and other benefits.

Visit www.horsetrust.org.uk or call 01494 488464 to find out more.

Would you like to join the Harry Hall team?

Harry Hall the tried and trusted name in equestrian clothing and leisure wear is offering riders the opportunity to be part of their sponsored team. If you love Harry Hall and feel you have what it takes to represent the brand, this great opportunity could see you kitted out head to toe in the latest gear. The lucky recipients will receive Harry Hall products to the value of £250.

The competition is open to all ages and levels of rider, all they ask is that you are passionate about your horse and have the enthusiasm to keep Harry Hall regularly updated on your activities via a monthly blog, Facebook posts and fun video clips, whether at home or competing. To enter simply visit the Harry Hall Facebook page, post a photo of you and your horse, and tell them why you deserve sponsorship, videos will also be accepted. The closing date for applicants is 30th September.

For more information and Terms and Conditions please visit www.harryhall.co.uk or Harry Hall Facebook page.

RDA Gala Awards Dinner, Wednesday 2 October 2013 The Riding for the Disabled Association (RDA) Gala Awards Dinner will take place at Plaisterers’ Hall, London on 2 October 2013 with special guest Clare Balding.

Chat WE ASKED Now that the days are getting shorter and the nig hts longer what are your best time sav ing tips so we can enjoy our horses for lon ger?

Fetch in and take out both horses together so as not to do a double trip.

Lora ST Hall Every Sunday I make up 14 feeds and haynets for the week ahead!

I'm done quicker before work and hav e more time to play ponies after work!

Zoë Daley I agree with the making hay nets up at weekends. Also means you don't smell of haylage during the week.

I use minimal bedding on rubber mats whi ch makes mucking out much quicker and don't change rugs during the wee k just turn necks down. Carla Goadby Muck out & have stables read y in the morning before work, mea ns when you come home you only have to ride & put them to bed!

Susan Anne McLafferty Get the housework done in the evenings..

Fix things as you notice the m to cut down on the "fix it" list and let the rooster do his job! Janice MacIntosh

“We are thrilled that Clare is joining us for our evening of celebration”, said Sally Get on with your jobs inst ead of gassing Atkinson, RDA Fundraising and Events to others! Lol Trina Fuller Manager “The outstanding achievements of RDA participants, volunteers and business partners will be acknowledged during the presentation of new awards - giving us the chance to thank those who make what we do possible.”

RDA President’s Club Member, Event Organiser and former international show-jumper, Dame Emma Jane Brown, is working with the team at RDA to promote the event which will also include a fundraising auction.

“RDA is a charity very close to my heart”, said Emma Jane “The organisation provides magnificent, life-changing opportunities. I am so proud to be involved with them and to be working with the RDA Team on this prestigious event.”

Tickets can be reserved from RDA National Office at £130 each and sponsorship opportunities are available for the Awards, Tables, the Drinks Reception and other items. Find out more at www.rda.org.uk

legalscene

Our expert

The pitfalls of purchasing a horse and the Implications of the Sale of Goods Act 1979

DWF is a leading national law firm with an equine team committed to horses, with some owning and showing their own horses in their spare time. The team has developed a breadth of expertise in contentious and non-contentious equine For potential owners wishing to buy a horse, there are a number of matters spanning the full services that DWF requirements that should be taken into consideration. Elizabeth Rhodes, a provide from varied property transactions, lawyer and equine specialist at national law firm DWF comments on the business acquisitions and employment matters potential issues faced when buying horses. to complex contractual disputes, rights of way issues and insurance related claims. We have the capability to assist a wide range of In order to clientele consisting of, for example, owners/ demonstrate the breeders, racing managers, racecourses, application of the corporate entities, charities and SGA, an example competitive bodies/organisations. DWF of a typical scenario are the appointed solicitors to The is set out below.

Pony Club and can be contacted on 0845 404 2293 An individual purchases a horse for £3,000 without a vetting. However, it turns out to have a severe case of navicular syndrome. The vendor says they are a private seller and not a horse dealer.

However, the vendor has advertised more than ten horses over the past year. The individual wants to take out a claim against the vendor, but their court case hinges on proving that the vendor is a horse dealer, as the individual has more rights in this situation.

It is important to have a pre-purchase vetting when buying horses to try and prevent this situation.

Research on the seller is a must! You need to decipher whether they are a private seller or a horse dealer. When purchasing from a horse dealer who is selling in the course of business, they are bound by additional provisions set out in the Sale of Goods Act 1979 (the “SGA”), which will provide potential owners with more legal protection in the event of a dispute. The same provisions do not apply to purchases from individual sellers.

When deciphering whether a seller is a dealer, the only definition that is important is the seller selling in the course of business. If someone is acting in the course of a business with a view to making a profit, or a history of a course of dealings can be shown, then the SGA will apply. This seller’s adverts are good evidence of a course of dealings. Providing proof of a brief period of ownership by the dealer may also support the intention to sell for a profit.

If the seller is a dealer selling in the course of business, a buyer is entitled to a horse of ‘satisfactory quality’ and ‘fit for their purpose’ in accordance with the SGA. If one of these terms is breached by the dealer, a buyer is usually entitled to reject the animal and request a refund provided he does so within a reasonable time.

If the seller is a horse dealer, the main provisions of the SGA can be relied on ie that goods should be of satisfactory quality and fit for their purpose. A dealer is bound by these terms otherwise they may be liable for breach of contract.

Sellers, therefore, try to avoid being deemed a horse dealer believing that this means they will escape liability for breach of contract. However, if a horse was sold as suitable for hunting, for example and does not match up to this description, this can form the basis of a claim whether it was a business sale or not.

However, a buyer who purchases a horse from a private individual does not have this type of recourse. In this case, the SGA only implies into the agreement that the horse corresponds with the description given in the sale advertisement or given verbally by the seller. However, if a buyer can show that the horse does not correspond with the description given by the seller, they may have a misrepresentation claim if a seller has withheld or concealed information.

propriate legal d that you seek ap requirements. de en m m co re is e, it dressing these to purchase a hors law to assist in ad ne ui eq If you are looking in g in lis itor specia advice from a solic

6 HorseScene

s l a c i t r Ve m e h t p m u j o t w o h a nd

In jumping a vertical the principles are the same as for jumping any fence. The quality of approach dictates the quality of the fence. If a horse drops a shoulder on approach it shortens the distance to the fence. If it drifts through the outside shoulder it lengthens the distance. In either case the front feet are out of line with the hinds so the horse is not as powerful or balanced. If the rider isn’t balanced in her position this will influence the way the horse is travelling too. The rider needs to maintain balance over the lower leg in order to be able independently to control the seat and application of the aids, allowing the horse to be balanced underneath.

p Correct ap

roach

The line of approach is important so that the horse can understand what is required of it. A good quality approach to the fence will allow the horse to concentrate on the jump and judge its stride pattern in order to create a good powerful jump. As a rider you are looking for the horse to be straight to the fence, over it, and away from the jump. As the horse becomes more educated the time that it is on that line may be reduced, in speed classes or where you are required to ride a short turn, but the principle is still the same.

Our expert Warren Lamperd is Aussie through-and-through, but has been in UK for about fifteen years – arriving as a rider for World and Olympic champion, Sir Mark Todd.

Warren has competed in high level dressage, show jumping and eventing on a worldwide scale including Australia, New Zealand and Malaysia, jumping at the Australian Showjumping Championships and various World Cup Shows. He also competed at the Australian Dressage Championships, winning his classes. Warren runs White Hart Stables along with his wife, together combining almost forty years coaching experience.

Visit www.warrenlamperd.com for information on clinics and coaching.

In this month's instalment we are focusing on jumping verticals. To begin with we will consider a vertical on its own and the rider's and the horse's role in jumping the fence. Then we will look at verticals in courses and the different ways they might be ridden, depending on how a course builder uses them.

Throughout will be some ideas on exercises to help with riding verticals.

8 HorseScene

To practice approach you can just use a pole on the ground and pretend that it is a fence. Ride as if you are approaching that fence and experiment. If you get it wrong it doesn’t matter as it is just a pole. With a pole on the ground you should also start to find your horse judging its stride pattern to the pole as you repeat the exercise, especially if you use several poles around the school. All you are doing is getting the horse to think about his feet, something you want him to do when he jumps a course.

Rider bala

nce

The rider's balance remains pivotal in the horse's ability to jump well and with confidence. If the rider is in front of the movement then the horse can’t lift its front as easily, nor can it engage the hindquarter and push itself and the rider up in the air so the jump flattens. If the rider is left behind this too stifles the jump as the horse can’t work through the back and make a good shape over the fence. If the horse starts to flatten its jump then it will work out it needs more speed to cover the distance over the fence. This will often make a rider more anxious, potentially then putting in a stronger bit, ultimately making the horse more anxious. If a horse rushes a fence there is a reason. The challenge is to understand what that reason is. In my experience it is more often than not to do with rider technique.

Technique If you can control the stride pattern to the take-off spot you can start to work on your technique. Use a small fence or cross on a related distance to the vertical. The small fence should put you where you want to take off from and you can start to analyse your own technique and the effect that has.

Each horse has an ideal spot to jump from that suits its own style. If the horse is too close to the fence then it will struggle

to get its front up in time and can then touch the fence with its front legs. If the horse is too far off it can get its front over but will struggle to get its hind end up high enough and will touch the rail behind. Each of these scenarios creates an exaggerated movement when the horse jumps which can in turn unbalance the rider. This is where rider fitness can have an effect. An advanced rider can help the horse if it is off the fence, by encouraging more power without speed, or too deep, by giving the horse more room and time with the front end. Equally a well educated fit horse will understand these situations and be able to compensate too. As an amateur rider help the horse find its balance in the approach and then do the best to keep yours over the fence and you will have a reasonable chance.

Jumping a

course

The next thing we have to consider is where the vertical is.

Jumping a single fence is one thing but it can be made all the more difficult by its relation to other fences in a course. These are the problems that course builders will consider when they are building a course. As riders our first obligation to our horse is to try and understand what the course builder is asking us to do and then relate it to our own particular horse.

Here are some examples of how a vertical might be used in a course and the things we need to think about.

A course builder will ask a power or moving question like a big oxer, a triple bar, or even a water fence, on a related distance to a tall vertical. He is asking you to open the horse up and then to test your ability to get the horse back so it can jump up over the vertical.

A vertical fence into a related distance will often create a situation where a rider, especially a less experienced one, will steady the horse to make sure of the jump over the vertical but close the canter in the process. If the vertical is into a related distance then the horse's canter is too short resulting in a missed distance at the next fence.

A variation on this would be a vertical into a double or triple, again inviting a weaker jump over the first vertical fence but leaving us off the next fence and having to chase for the distance or finding that the horse adds a stride. All things that undermine the quality of the jump and take away the horse's and/or the rider's confidence.

To add to these scenarios consider things like the approach and straightness that we discussed earlier. A curved line or a horse drifting over a fence will increase the distance between fences as well as reduce the horse's power and balance for jumping.

Practice To practice, create channels with poles on the ground to guide you and your horse between fences to help you both develop straightness. Make sure there is enough room so that you cannot land on a pole, and give the horse a chance to understand what you are asking too, they are not telepathic and they can’t talk back.

If you can, think about videoing yourself training and competing and start to look for the sort of things that have been discussed here. What is actually happening is often different from what we think is happening.

It can sound very complicated but keep it simple.

A good canter in the arena, which is often more than you would expect, with good lines of approach and away from a fence, combined with good rider balance over the lower leg, and the fence should start to take care of itself.

LetterSscene tar WIN... a pair of

Ariat Olympia Full Seat Breeches

letter

Unfair competiti

on

I am concerned at the number of horseboxes I have seen this summer that are being driven with the top door above the ramp open. I've seen it on motorways and country roads. I can imagine it can be frightening for the horse and with passing lorries throwing up dust and debris can not be pleasant.

One owner from my yard did this and the horse got a nasty injury to his head, yet she still continues to drive with the door open. I don't understand why people think that this is a good idea. Fiona Morris

Write to: Letter Scene, Horse Scene Magazine, 9 Maple Grove, Welwyn Garden City, Hertfordshire. AL7 1NQ

or email: letters@horsescenemagazine.co.uk

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e, mare. I A 6 year old, Irish sports hors This is my new horse Cassie! told I need to invest in ing gett keep I p! jum can think it's safe to say she Georgia Hayes a parachute..! Haha! Sent in by

Want to be next months HOT SHOT? Send your picture to hotshot@horsescenemagazine.co.uk

hotshot • hotshot • hotshot

Danger on the roads

hotshot • hotshot • hotshot

I am writing in re The winner of the star letter will sponse to what I perceive to be towards horse an win these fantastic breeches, a growing trend d rider combinat ions that are alrea featuring four-way stretch established, havin dy very well g quite often alrea schoeller fabric for maximum dy won more than at the level they a few classes ar e co mpeting at, stayin comfort and mobility, stretch dressage (i.e. un g at the lower lev affi els in lia te d lev Clarino full seat, front zip and el). Perhaps I am regarded unaffilia wrong but I alway ted as a stepping unique hand pocket design with s stone towards Br and BRC and Trail itish Dressage, blazers creating piping effect. Ariat’s patented V3 th e chance for amat ordinary riders/ho eurs and system in the waist and CFS (Calf rses to "have a go ". However it now people's ambition Fit System) ensure these breeches seems many is not to affiliate nor progress syste the levels, but jus not only perform in the saddle but matically up t to secure more and more wins un without ever "mov look great too. Available in white, der their belt ing on". This is ev idenced by seve have come across beige, navy, black or truffle in ral incidents I the last six month s. In particular, at sizes 22-36.

Trailblazers Cham ! the recent 9 pio ns 9 hip . s, one competitor 4 www.ariat-europe.com prelim, was actu who competed in ally also competin h £14 t the r o g in the elementa overheard a judge W ry section! I also at one of the Britis h Riding Club dres qualifiers earlier sage on in the year co mmenting afterw were a fair few ho ards that "there rses in the novic e class that looked in there". I know Don’t rule out an ex-racer too good to be of many horses that have BD po I'm in my mid 50s, with sciatica and generally unaffiliated preli ints competing at m and novice lev el .... I understan getting a bit creaky, as you do. When my loan horse is good to step do d that sometimes wn a level to build it had to retire in May, I had to think long and hard confidence, parti combination of ho cularly if a new rse /ri de r, but after a few wi about whether to retire from the saddle with him. a point when the ns surely there co pair should com mes My daughter convinced me to try a narrower horse pete hor concou to be unfair for th r? It seems to m e or din ar y e rid and sure enough, when I tried TBs I didn't have any er s an d horses out there, aren't worth thou who maybe sands and thousa back or hip pain despite having not ridden for nds, and may no or most extravaga t have the hugest nt paces, but wh months. I have recently bought (term "bought" is o maybe work ex what they do, an tremely hard at d are very correct used very loosely!) Kirbybroguelantern, a 12yr old in their basic tra particular what is ining, in expected at preli TB who only retired from racing in Apr/May this m and perhaps ev but are prevente en novice level, d from shining du year! Not at all what I, or anyone who knows me, e to others hogg There seems to be ing the lime light anticipated! Despite having had horses for many a bit of a blockag ? e at the bottom prevent the ordin levels, that years, we have never had an ex-racer and I was ary horses/riders filt er no ing t th th ro e on ug ly one who has no h. I am sure I am unconvinced that I would have the experience or ticed this disappo without the atte inting trend and ability to own one, particularly one with such a long ntion of show or I feel ganisers and BR ordinary people C, more and mor racing career but Kirby has proven me wrong. He is will be put off. My e fri end, who is curre on her youngste a gentleman in every way and just so very "life ntly bringing r to compete in dr es sa ge sh , e actually commen is put off doing Tr proof". He seems more than happy to just be ted that ailblazers and BR C and it seems an playing ground... hacking and being able to find out so much about at least with BD unfair th er e allow everybody are restrictions in him and his life is actually more reassuring than if I the chance to filt place to er through. Nam had bought a "normal" horse. His whole life is e withheld documented in his passport and on the internet. I'm sure our journey won't be without some bumps along the way but to anyone in the same boat, I'd definitely say to not rule out an ex-racer!

Claire Foxall.

How clean should your stable and yard be? y horses living yard clean. With man le ab st ur yo ep ke to ier, muck heaps it is so much easier yards stay much tid r ou , ld fie e th in At this time of year g ould your azin ots. But how clean sh ding longer days gr bo en sp dy t ud as m le d at an or t gs gives ou s aren’t full of wet ru HSAI INT SM Reg’d) om (B s ro er ck nd ta d Sa a an ur er La all , are sm pert groom e time? Here, our ex stable yard be all th us advice. muck out?

How often should I Mucking out is one of the major chores linked with horse ownership. How often you do it and to what extent will depend on what type of bedding system you use and how much time your horse spends in its stable. As a general rule of thumb a full muck out should be done at a minimum of once per day for a horse stabled overnight. This will consist of removing all of the droppings from the stable and in most cases the wet bedding where the horse has urinated.

Keeping the stable clean and regularly mucked out is essential to your horse’s health and well-being. Bacteria and spores grow quickly in a warm, damp environment and along with ammonia generated from urine these can lead to breathing and respiratory problems, skin and foot infections and overall poor performance in the competition horse.

Parasites, flies and vermin can also become a problem as a result of dirty stables.

? clean water troughs How often should I Clean fresh water should be available to horses and ponies at all times. Automatic water feeders in the stable and field are an efficient way to provide this as the supply is constantly refreshed with clean water as the horse drinks.

These should be checked daily to ensure they are in good working order and no debris such as leaves or stable bedding has fallen into them. If you don’t have the luxury of automatic feeders then buckets will suffice. A healthy horse will drink on average 10- 12 gallons of water per day so it is essential not only to provide enough, but ensure that it is clean. Standing water will stagnate quickly so the insides of buckets and feeders should be scrubbed every couple of days to prevent algae forming.

po How often should I

o-pick the fields?

This will depend entirely on the amount of grazing you have available, how many horses use the area and for how long.

Many smaller enterprises with limited grazing will need poopicking probably on a daily basis to ensure the number of droppings don’t overtake the grass and prevent the horses

12 HorseScene

Anyone with limited grazing will probably need to poopick on a daily basis

eating it. This practice will also help control the worm burden that groups of horses face when grazing together and in my experience regular poo-picking not only keeps the field looking nicer but they are healthier too, even seeming to drain better in the winter. If you have larger grazing areas of at least 2 acres per horse and are able to rotate and rest your fields then chain harrowing is an equally good option. This method involves not poo-picking for a period of time, then dragging a set of chain harrows across the fields to break up and spread the droppings, exposing worms and parasites to the elements, effectively killing them off. Chain harrowing also loosens the very top of the soil and pulls out dead grass from the root ball encouraging new grass to grow. This method really only works best if the field can then be rested for at least a couple of months. If you are considering this method speak to a local farmer who will advise you.

WIN... e n i b r o s b A t !

0 n 0 . a i 3 l 6 l £ i r r e v B o h t r o w s t produc Horse Scene magazine has teamed up with Absorbine, to offer four lucky winners all of the following: Hooflex Natural Dressing promotes strong, healthy hoof growth with Tea Tree, Arnica and Comfrey to deep condition, helping maintain moisture balance in the foot. Available in a 444ml container with brush-in-cap. Also available as a spray. (Container RRP £12.10)

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Absorbine Liquid Embrocation’s tried and trusted formula soothes sore muscles and stiff joints by helping to support circulation. Also an effective and cooling body wash when diluted with water. RRP £15.88.

TWO Mitt’s, Mitt and Miss Mitt to provide a smart, easy and clean way to apply spray and lotion products. Simply zips back into its bag after use. (RRP £9.99) For more product information, visit www.absorbine.co.uk

Hooflex Original Liquid Conditioner, easy-to-apply liquid form of Hooflex Original Ointment provides a breathable barrier to help maintain the proper moisture balance necessary to keep hooves healthy and pliable all year round. Ideal when conditions are changeable. Available in a 444ml container with brush-in-cap. (RRP £12.10) Hooflex Frog & Sole Care, helps soothe the hoof and eliminates odours caused by bacteria and fungi. Easily applied with the special squeeze applicator which is designed to reach deep into the frog.

The liquid formula penetrates the frog and sole tissue and will not sting, stain, or dry the hoof. Available in a 355ml bottle. (RRP £13.50)

How to ente

r

This competition can only be entered on the ‘’Horse Scene Magazine Facebook Page’’.

Come and join us and be in with a chance to win this fantastic prize. Closes: 30th September 2013

Platinum is Precious!

Following the successful launch of the Kensington European Cut and SureFit Textilene Protective Sheets to the UK market by exclusive retailer Shadow Horse, Kensington Rugs have introduced a brand new collection called the ‘Platinum Series’, which embraces technical fabric and contemporary design.

Available in a medium weight and a heavyweight with optional detachable fully lined hood. This new generation of rug means that the weight is not representative of how toasty it can keep your horse - the intelligent fabric and filling used in the rug’s design means that they can be worn in hot or cold temperatures from -6oC to 22oC dependent on weight of rug and thickness of coat.

The rug is styled in a clever, 1680 Denier Ballistic Nylon outer shell fabric. 100% waterproof, this outer shell is threaded through with a Teflon and Lami-Cell coating which helps keep the rug clean and breathable whilst protecting and extending the life of the rug.

The rug’s filling is ‘Hollow-Fibre Fill’ which gives the impression of a much denser insulation without the associated weight. This and the rug’s ‘CoolPlus’ lining draws excess heat away from the horse’s skin, helping to acclimatise your horse and wick away any moisture. The removable insulated belly-band significantly helps to keep the horse warm without having to use a neck cover.

The rug’s SureFit cut is the best bits of their Traditional and European Cuts, open at the front to enable free movement of the shoulders it is contoured to the shape of the horse to allow for all shapes and sizes with minimal risk of rubbing.

Add to the rugs many features a detachable tail flap, semielasticated and removable cross surcingles and leg straps featuring a 2” snap and D’s and front buckle and double click fastenings for security and you can see why Platinum is precious!

Available in sizes from 5’9” - 7’3”.

Medium weight rug - £155. Colour: Teal with Black & Silver trim Heavyweight rug - £170 (neck cover available at £75). Colour: Blue Violet with Blue Violet & Silver trim.

Shadow Horse pride themselves on offering the very best products sourced from all over the world and personally test each product to ensure its does what it says on the label and stands the test of time!

For more information visit: www.shadowhorse.co.uk

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What to look for in a bag of compound horse feed

Verticals and how to jump them

September 2013

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Maintaining control

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Maintaining control

in open spaces Our expert Joanna Baxter is Head of the Equine Department at Craven College. Joanna herself came up through the Pony Club, and has competed nationally as a Junior and Senior in many disciplines, including British Dressage, British Show Jumping, British Eventing, and Showing. She has her BSc (Hons) in Equine Science and BHSII, BHS SM.

The main thing to remember when riding in open spaces is safety. So whenever you go out it is best not to go alone. Either take a friend on foot or on horseback, and a phone, preferably on silent, so that it can be used for emergencies only and will not disrupt you whilst you are riding. Plan your route to avoid times when areas may be busy, such as school times, rush hours or if any road works are planned. If you are going on public roads then high visibility wear is essential so the traffic can see you.

Nervous horses should be ridden out off-road with a companion to give them confidence

Control in open spaces You must make sure that you have control in open spaces.

Have a canter in the school before venturing into open fields. If you are really concerned that your horse may not behave then you can lunge in a field to begin with. This would be better if it was an enclosed field. The first time you ride in an open space an enclosed area is recommended.

Tack

Nervous horses Nervous horses should be ridden out off-road with a companion to give them confidence. Use open spaces and quiet routes until the horse has started to establish its confidence. As this builds then a short road route could be attempted at very quiet times such as early morning. Keep building up the work until the horse becomes more confident and it can be ridden alone with someone walking on foot.

16 HorseScene

The choice of tack is important.

Ensure that the horse has a well-fitting saddle that can accommodate the rider’s shorter leg length if cantering.

A bridle with a running martingale will not allow the horse’s head to be raised too high and will give the rider a neck strap if required. If you are worried, the choice of bit should be something slightly stronger than normal for control, but ensure you have ridden in the school in the bit.

A bridle with a running martingale will not allow the horse’s head to be raised too high and will give the rider a neck strap if required

Public Rights of Way Whilst we all love to be out in the open - we must remember public footpaths are for pedestrians and often access cannot be gained by horses.

Bridleways Bridleways are meant for walkers, horse riders and bicyclists.

Cyclists are expected to give way to walkers and horse riders.

Byways Open To All Traffic (BOAT) These byways are normally marked "byways" and are open to motorists, bicyclists, horse riders, motorcyclists and pedestrians. As with public tarmac road networks, motorists must ensure that they are legally authorised to use BOATs (i.e. registered, taxed, insured and MoT’d).

Restricted Byways Weather conditions Another consideration is the weather. Is it suddenly going to thunder or get windy or is it slippery? These factors can unnerve both horse and rider so it is prudent to check before venturing out.

Accompanied riding When you first go out take a friend and just walk with short periods of trot. That way the horses will not want to race each other and you will feel you have control. Once the ground rules for stopping are established then you can introduce periods of canter and eventually some faster work. Always remember to use lots of transitions to ensure you maintain control.

Restricted Byways are created under the Natural Environment and Rural Communities Act 2006. They are open to the traffic mentioned above in BOATs, but exclude motor vehicles and motorcycles.

Things to remember not to do when using of public rights of way: You are not allowed to disturb or harm any wildlife found on a public right of way.

You should not drop or leave litter on a public right of way.

You should not trespass on lands adjoining public rights of way. At all times keep to the legal limits!

These points are the legalities attached to riding in the open, but remember as they are also used by others, courtesy and control are essential. To summarise these are the main points to maintain control in the open 4 Use suitable well-fitting tack with a bit that offers control for your horse without causing discomfort 4 Ensure you can maintain control whilst riding in enclosed areas 4 Use smaller areas of contained space to begin work in open spaces 4 Transitions are essential to test control 4 Build up your own and your horse’s confidence 4 Make use of a friend to accompany you

When you first go out take a friend and just walk with short periods of trot.

4 Always let someone know where you are going and take a mobile phone 4 Show courtesy to others using the open spaces

To find out more about how to behave in the countryside, please make reference to the Countryside Code for England and Wales.

N I W

New Lifeforce Focus Win a tub of Lifeforce Focus worth £60 and an Alltech branded saddlecloth

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In this issue we have teamed up with Alltech to provide two lucky winners with the chance to win a tub of Lifeforce Focus worth £60 and an Alltech branded saddlecloth.

New Lifeforce Focus from Alltech is a supplement specially designed for leisure horses with low levels of activity or those that spend a lot of time grazing.

Increasing numbers of horse owners are recognising the benefits of allowing their horses to live more naturally and while undoubtedly natures own diet is the best, pasture quality can vary significantly.

Lifeforce Focus should be fed at the rate of 56g per day split between two feeds and is available in a 1.7kg sample pouch and a 5kg tub which supplies a 30 or 90 day supply respectively.

A 5kg Tub of Lifeforce Focus retails at £60.

For further information please visit www.lifeforcehorse.com or telephone 01780 764512

Lifeforce Focus is the supplement of choice for leisure horses on minimal hard feed diets providing all round good health.

Containing all natural ingredients Lifeforce Focus creates an ideal digestive environment which allows good bacteria to work most effectively throughout the gut helping to prevent digestive upsets.

It also addresses challenges related to weight loss and body condition and provides organic trace minerals that are more easily absorbed and maintained.

Alltech are title sponsor of the Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games 2014 in Normandy, France. The Lifeforce range is the cornerstone of the Alltech Equine Advantage series, developed to benefit horses at every stage of life, from breeding stock to pleasure and performance animals.

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Enter online at: www.horsescenemagazine.co.uk 18

Closes: 30th September 2013. See full T&C’s on our website.

New

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New British Showjumping competition shirts Keeping cool in the saddle is key to success and with the new British Showjumping Competition Shirts help is on hand, even on the hottest days! The new Ladies Kenilworth Competition Shirt is a smart, comfortable, fitted shirt made from a moisture management fabric with a soft feel, cotton front panel and collar.

Featuring a silver coloured zip fastening, diamante detail on the collar with a press stud fastening, capped sleeves, small slits at the hem and the British Showjumping logo embroidered on the chest. Available in sizes 8 to 20 and is priced at £33.99.

For more information visit www.equestrianclearance.com

Totally Tweed – the English Equestriennes…

Gersemi have introduced a stylish slant for their winter 2013 equestrian wardrobe. Taking a play on traditional tweeds, mixing this country heritage with Scandinavian design, to give a unique high fashion equestrienne feel. Using tweeds from some of the most sought after mills in Scotland they have mixed them with modern sports styling to give a perfect fit for today’s rider. The Pyri vest is a padded, close fitting, two way zip style that features a high fur trimmed collar. It has leather trims on the pockets, shoulder epaulettes and a half belt, together with a leather back waist panel complete with embroidered logo. This can be worn when riding or as a fashion look for a more relaxed country occasion. With its light padding it can be used as an alternative to a jacket for the cool autumn days. It comes in a choice of tweed fabrics in sizes XS – XL. Colours: Blue Stone, Moss, Graphite – Plaid (check) tweed. Mocha – Plain tweed.

RRP £126 For more information visit www.zebraproducts.com

Latest additions to “the complete stable and yard system” Following the success of the 2 litre versions, the new 1 litre jug scoop and pouring jug are the latest additions to “the complete stable and yard system”. The pouring jug has a 1 litre capacity, achieved with room to spare preventing unnecessary spillage. Centrally positioned increment ladder for accurate measuring and is designed for ease of storage and transport. The jug scoop is an innovatively designed stackable, jug style flat bottomed scoop, which is ideal for measuring/ transferring feed or supplements, as well as being ideal for soaking or bailing.

Both products are available in lime green, baby blue, purple and of course pink.

For more information visit www.haroldmoore.co.uk

Be bolder with burgundy Horse Health has added a new colour to its saddle pad range due to customer demand.

"Our customers tell us that as modern riders they want more colour choices and we are all about giving the customer what they want".

Offering great value for money from £34.95

20

For more information visit www.horsehealth.co.uk

New Stubbs Horsey ball Simple and robust, this entertaining toy dispenses treats or feed to keep horses amused for hours. There are no plugs, stoppers or removable parts, just one hole for easy filling.

The lumpy style ball seems to have a mind of its own and does not go in a straight line! Moulded from ultra tough Stubbythene (which is tested for impact strength at icy temperatures) the Horsey Ball is made to last. Available in Blue, Pink, Green, Purple and Red, priced around £15.99.

For more information visit www.abbeyengland.com

Himalayan salt lick Lincoln Himalayan Crystal salt lick providing 100% pure natural rock salt and comes complete with rope. A natural source of iron, potassium and magnesium all vital ingredients for keeping your horse healthy. Available in 750g, 2kg, 4.25kg.

Prices from £4.83.

For more information visit www.battles.co.uk/lincoln

Smartphone riding gloves Woof Wear has added a conductive Smartphone riding glove to its already popular Grand Prix Glove range. In the fast paced world we live in, riding with a phone is a common occurrence so it made sense to create a glove which makes life easier for riders.

The Smartphone glove incorporates conductive fibres in the index finger and thumb of each hand allowing the use of a touch-screen phone without the need to remove gloves.

Available in sizes 6 - 9.5 in black. Priced at £25.00.

Jewellery, clothing, accessories and gifts.

For more information visit www.woofwear.com

www.blingequestrian.co.uk

Our expert

What to look for

Zoe Davies Msc.,R.Nutr.

in a bag of compound horse feed

A qualified and highly experienced Equine Nutritionist, Zoe is one of only a handful of Registered Equine Nutritionists in the UK today.

Zoe is able to offer independent advice across the full range of feeds and feed supplements available commercially. She has over 25 years of experience in equine nutrition and offers advice to feed companies, supplement manufacturers and their customers, she also undertakes veterinary referrals and diet and forage analysis.

The number of feeds and supplements available in the market place today is simply mind numbing! How do horse owners decide which type of feed to choose and once they have chosen a type of feed which manufacturer to use?

Luckily, feed manufacturers are legally obliged to put certain information on the bag. There may also be additional details that are not legal requirements that are simply aimed at helping horse owners make an informed choice. The laws and information required varies between countries and in this article these refer to those used in the UK.

tatement Statutory S The statutory statement must be printed on the bag by law.

It includes;

1

Name of the feed – product name and brand - what type of horse the feed is intended for. This can be almost anything as long as it does not make any medicinal claims!

2

Description of the feed or purpose statement – is it a “complete feed” i.e. no other feed required or “complementary compound feed” to be fed in addition to forage (pasture and/or hay/haylage). The latter is far more common. Also what type of animal is the feed intended for, horses, pigs, sheep etc? Is it for weanlings, veterans or is it a balancer?

3

Nutrient analysis – Manufacturers currently have to legally declare the following;

Minimum %Crude Fibre (CF)

Minimum % Crude Protein (CP)

Ash %

Minimum % Oil

Vitamins A, D & E

Copper

22 HorseScene

Ingredients

I Ingredients are listed in general order of the amount included in the feed from highest first to lowest last. These may be listed in generic terms such as grain products or by products, plant protein products, animal protein products, forage products etc., or as specific listings such as oats, barley, soybean meal etc.

If ingredients are given on the bag as opposed to an attached feed label, then this would suggest that the manufacturer uses the same ingredients each time. This is because manufacturers would not be able to afford to keep changing their bags depending upon the latest change to the formulation. Other companies may keep changing the ingredients to keep costs down a process known as Least Cost Formulation. This means that the cost of ingredients is kept down, but these changes are certainly not always good for horse’s digestive systems.

Horse owners can sometimes see this in practice when opening a new bag of feed and observing that it looks different when compared to the old!

4 5

Feeding Instructions – should be given on the bag

6

Best before date and batch number or date of manufacture – make sure this is in date! Make sure you keep hold of this in case there is a problem to report to the feed manufacturer.

7

Name and address of manufacturer.

Weight of the bag – some are 20kg some 25kg and some only15kg!

Nutrients Crude Protein This is a chemical test that calculates the amount of Nitrogen in the feed and all sources of nitrogen are included. This is then multiplied to give a crude calculation of the protein level, i.e. crude protein %. However, this nitrogen may or may not be from good quality protein!

Good quality protein contains higher levels of “essential amino acids” these are building blocks that the horse cannot make himself therefore must take in via food. Lysine, methionine and threonine are all essential amino acids. You may see these amino acids included on labelling or literature, particularly lysine. Soybean meal and alfalfa are good sources of lysine and have a good balance of essential amino acids.

When looking at protein levels of feed, it is important if possible to assess this in relation to the approximate protein content of the forage. For example if feeding a high protein compound feed, don’t feed a high protein haylage or hay with it and vice versa. Horses and ponies eat lbs or kgs, not percentages! e.g. 3lbs of a 32% Crude Protein ration provides 0.96lbs crude protein (3 x 0.32) 6lbs of a 16% Crude Protein ration provides 0.96lbs crude protein (6 x 0.16) BUT 15lbs of a 10% protein hay provides 15 x 0.1 = 1.5lbs crude protein! So the main source of protein is actually forage!

The total amount of protein gives no information about the actual quality of the protein.

Crude Fibre Again this is a crude chemical assessment of fibre in the feed.

In general the higher the crude fibre, the lower the energy or calories; Digestible Energy (DE MJ/kg) The DE value is not required legally on the bag at the moment, but many manufacturers still put an “Estimated DE” value as fed and it does supply useful information to the consumer.

For overweight horses and ponies a lower DE is preferred but for horses in hard work or lactating, a higher DE value is required. A complete feed for horses that can no longer eat pasture for whatever reason, will need to be high in fibre i.e. at least 15% Crude Fibre or higher! Hay may be 33-40% CF! Some fibre sources are more digestible than others so check the ingredients!

Oil is a useful ingredient as it; • Provides the required energy using less concentrates and so lower amounts of cereal grain (starch) as an energy source are fed.

• This lowers the metabolic stress by reducing the glycaemic response and decreasing lactate accumulation in the hardworking horse.

• Horses can perform longer at a lower body temperature.

• Horses recover faster from exercise.

• Higher fat feeds tend to be digested more efficiently than traditional high cereal grain diets.

• May improve behaviour (by reducing hormonal response to a meal).

Vitamins & Minerals Vitamin E is expensive and this is often a good way to compare comparable feeds such as horse & pony cubes or performance feeds. It generally gives a clue as to the quality of the ingredients and formulation of a feed. Some minerals may be chelated and are more available to the horse’s body.

For example selenium may be listed as Sel-Plex instead or in addition to the inorganic form sodium selenite.

Yea Saac This may be added by some manufacturers as a nutritional aid to the digestion of fibre.

Ingredients More extensive and specific ingredient listings usually mean the feed has been made to a “fixed formula” i.e. the same each time you buy a new bag and not varying in ingredients from month to month. Ingredients are generally listed in order of the amount included in the feed from highest first to lowest last.

It is important to note that if the feeding instructions state that the feed should be fed at the rate of say 8lbs per day, if you only feed 4lbs of the feed to maintain condition, then other nutrients in addition to the energy will also be reduced accordingly including important vitamins & minerals, in this case cut by half! These should be replaced with an appropriate supplement or a low calorie balancer.

Comparing Feeds by using Tags or labels: More is not always better - know the horse's requirements and risks of exceeding them. Remember a large proportion of the horse's nutrient requirements especially for energy and protein are met with good quality hay.

Try to fill nutritional gaps left by forage – for example the choice of concentrate feed to be fed to a horse consuming alfalfa hay should be very different than that being fed to a horse eating grass or mixed hay.

Sugar beet dehydrated forage, grass and alfalfa all provide very digestible fibre, oat hulls less so.

Using feed high in digestible fibre may help nutritionally support horses and ponies prone to laminitis, tying up, colic, metabolic syndrome, insulin resistance etc.

Oil Horse feeds range from 3-15% oil or fat (supplements may be even higher). Vegetable oils such as soya oil are often included. Fats of animal origin are often less palatable but may be mixed with vegetable sources to improve palatability.

Typically higher oil levels means lower starch and sugar! Fat is a relatively new energy source for horses containing over twice as much energy than starch from cereals.

Higher oil feeds that are lower in starch may be preferred for conditioning, lactating mares, growing youngstock, older horses, cushings and laminitics that are losing weight and horses prone to tying up.

Remember, NONE of th e values liste d in the Sta tutory Statement give any info rmation about the d igestibility or quality o f the feed. Alway s look at th e in g re dients!!

If unsure as k the manu facturer for information more particularly w ith regard to feeding ins tructions as all horses a nd ponies are individuals!

HorseScene 23

Tacktalk

e l d d a S r e d l Using an O f y the Society o h carried out b hen look at researc dles in an era w d sa r In this issue we e ld o f o into the use innovation and st te la e Master Saddlers th y b d re surrounde horse owners a technology.

Is your saddle a comfy classic or a hidden health hazard? Is it really worth splashing out on a brand new fitted saddle or is your old faithful fit for its job?

The experts at the Society of Master Saddlers have conducted research into the effects of using older saddles and how reflocking could improve them.

The Test Two old saddles, a monoflap and a split flap saddle from the 1980’s, were tested against a brand new saddle. A Pliance system was used to measure the pressures that were exerted on the horse’s back during riding.

Recordings were taken down the same long side of the arena each time, recording ten strides of trot and canter for each saddle. The testing was repeated on both reins and completed three times with an average result calculated for each.

After the initial testing the old saddles were assessed and changes were made to their flocking.

The monoflap had very hard flocking and was more compressed on the right side. This saddle was completely reflocked using Jacob wool, which moves with the horse and has very good recovery properties.

The split flap saddle had been reflocked recently so only small adjustments were made to the flocking as both panels were rounded giving a narrower bearing on the horse’s back. The asymmetry of the saddle was also adjusted and both panels were ‘bashed’ to soften the stuffing.

The Results As predicted, the pressure readings from both old saddles were very high before any alterations were made. The monoflap was the worst with its hard flocking.

After alterations were made, both old saddles still recorded very high pressures but did show a significant improvement. The reflocking of the monoflap saddle reduced peak pressure by a massive 43%.

The final test with the new saddle recorded peak pressures that were 57% lower than the monoflap before it was reflocked and 24% lower after it was reflocked.

Compared with the split flap saddle, the new saddle recorded peak pressures 27% lower before adjustments and then 16% lower after.

The pressures recorded when riding in the old saddles were far higher than expected, even after reflocking and adjustments.

As a result of these findings the Society of Master Saddlers suggest that in the future, saddlers and saddle fitters should recommend that riders who are unable to buy a brand new saddle should make an attempt not to ride in very old saddles for extended periods.

Top Tip Whether buyi ng a new or se cond hand saddle it is im portant to have it fitted by a qualified sadd le fitter and ha ve it checked regularly. Also remember old saddles can be improved with a complete re -flock.

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

24

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When worn as a combination they work together to form a versatile system with a combined weight of only 680g; each item's integral properties contribute to the creation of a fully insulated, non-restrictive, breathable and protective clothing system.

How to Enter: To be in with a chance of winning, collect the ''tokens'' from the July, September and October issues. Once all 3 tokens have been collected, send them along with your name, address and contact number to: Token Frenzy, Horse

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Contact

www.equineanswers.co.uk or call 0845 5214840 The 2013 Equine Tourism Good Horsemanship Awards The Equine Tourism Good Horsemanship Awards are handed out sparingly and we are thrilled to make an award to Andrea Hicks and Native Pony & Cob Saddles.

CONGRATULATIONS to Andrea and her team!!

Outstanding Product Design benefitting Native ponies particuarly Outstanding Saddle Fitting & Customer Service - from Andrea and her team

responsible for the designs since 2002. These saddles are specially designed for wider equines, to overcome the challenges of wide saddle fitting, solutions including innovative designs such as 4 girth straps so that relevant adjustments can be made. All saddles are handmade in England on British trees by qualified saddlers using top quality leathers. and are made in England from high quality leather with attention to detail and comfort.

Outstanding Quality superb, consistent superior quality and finish of saddles Outstanding marketing and promotion of good saddle fitting which helps to educate the marketplace The Native Pony Saddle Company has been established for over 10 years with Andrea Hicks

www.nativeponysaddles.com

Tips to help you ride a correct t est

Arena geometry Our experts KK Equestrian is run by Kate Rowland and Karen Bennett. Both are national level dressage riders and have many wins and a wealth of experience between them. Kate has also showjumped for many years and is known for bringing on young and diďŹƒcult horses. One of her passions includes being an international dressage groom. Karen is very good with nervous riders, she loves judging and is a stickler for a riders position. KK Equestrian is based at East Herts Equestrian Centre and oers competition, selling and training livery.

There are various tricks of the trade to riding a correct dressage test.

There have been a great number of people who have written on this subject and I dare say there will be a great number more. However, here follows our interpretation

28 HorseScene

Levels Firstly let's start with the difficulty of the dressage tests and what the judges are looking for...

There are several different types of dressage tests you can enter. The higher up you go, the harder they are and the more is expected of you and your horse's way of going. This is when the scales of training come into play.

These are the levels you can compete at, starting with the easiest.

Intro Prelim

Always set your horse up for every movement

Novice Once the bell or car horn has sounded you have 45 seconds to start your test. If you start after this time you will incur a 2 point penalty to your final score.

Elementary Medium

You always need to set your horse up for every movement.

Give yourself at least two horse lengths until you feel you have a quicker response, then one horse length should be sufficient

Advanced medium Advanced

A Enter in working trot:- make sure you are right in the centre of the arena opposite C. Look at the judge and ride purposefully towards her, smiling, not forgetting to give yourself one horse length to make the smooth turn at C. The school has corners so if you’re going large make sure you ride them.

Inter 1 Inter 11 FEI

C 20 metre circle:- think a diamond shape. Ride two strides past C, then think, "straight line to the edge of the arena, two strides on the track then look to E B and ride over X back to the track, then finally, off it back to C"

aining Scales of tr Dressage is now very much geared up to the correct way of going. British dressage has adopted the German scales of training and it is no longer sufficient just to carry out the movements - the horse should be willing and gymnastic.

E 20 metre circle;- this is harder to perform, but following the same principle the widest point of your circle should be on your centre line.

The scales of training are • Rhythm • Suppleness • Contact • Impulsion • Straightness • And eventually collection

H X F change of rein:- start setting up for the movement from C. Look for F but aim to be back to the track half horse’s length before F so you’re set up for the corner.

Usually the scales of training are approached in this order, because until the horse works in rhythm it will be difficult to make him supple, contact will be difficult to achieve and impulsion will be elusive. The higher up the levels you go the more is expected.

Transitions: - again set the horse up, slow your pace down with loads of little half halts (you should to do at least 50 in a test)

B 10 meter circle. Again ride a diamond shape, one horse stride on the track, then look down your centre line but keep turning back to B.

the test Marking of Dressage tests are marked from 1 to 10 for each section and it is important that you understand what the marks mean so that you can train to achieve higher marks 10

Excellent

4

Insufficient

9

Very good

3

fairly bad

8

Good

2

Bad

7

Fairly good

1

Very bad

6

Satisfactory

0

not executed

5

Sufficient

Up and down a gear, again set your horse up one horse length before required Halt: Prepare, make sure you have stopped. Immobility and salute: Count to three, then take your reins in your left hand and put your right hand down to your side. I have seen various variations in the salute from cub scout salute to little circles like Benny Hill! But putting your hand to your side will do just fine. Big no no - do not salute with your stick in your hand.

to be an enjoyable All in all, dressage is meant les of training are way of making sure your sca e insider information correct - and now you hav you all out at local we look forward to seeing venues.

HorseScene 29

h s i n Ba Equi-Med Ag Wound Boot Range Uniquely designed, reusable antibacterial equine wound care boots and wound dressings for the treatment and prevention of mud fever and infected wounds.

These products contain a layer of activated carbon and silver, proven to have antibacterial properties effective when treating and preventing wound and skin infections. These work to eliminate bacteria from the infected lesions and skin on the horse’s leg, allowing the wounds to heal, by attracting the bacteria into the structure of the cloth, where it is held immobile - the bacteria then engulf the nano silver impregnated into the cloth thinking it is food and die. As all of this takes place inside the cloth you are not putting anything into the skin, thus allowing the skin to heal faster. Case studies have shown that the wound dressing and stable boot range are effective not only in the treatment of this condition but they can also be used when there is no condition present and will stop any chance of the condition returning. The boot range can be machine washed at 40o using soda crystals making the boots a very cost effective way to keep this annoying condition at bay.

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Nettex – keep ing mud fever away Nettex Muddy Marvel Barrier Cream is a waterproof pr oduct that inhibits th e entry of mud, water and bacteria into susceptible sk in while allowing the sk in to breathe. If, ho wever, mud fever has already taken a hold then this crea m, which also co ntains a disinfectant, so othes the sores, help s to regenerate sk in growth and speeds up the process. Easy whole healing to apply, Nette x Muddy Marve Cream only ne l Barrier eds to be used once or twice making it a co a week, st-effective pu rchase for hors Priced at £8.9 e owners.

9 for 300ml, £1 6.99 for 600m l.

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Mud Fever

Mud fever is one of those conditions which is guaranteed to make any equines life a misery. Here, we look at some of the products on the market that can help treat the condition and prevent it for the future.

Lincoln Muddy Buddy Magic Mud Kure Cream and Powder

Think Mud Nutritional support for wet, muddy skin…..

Lincoln Muddy Buddy Magic Mud Kure Cream and Powder are fast, effective therapies for mud fever. Scientifically proven to kill the bacteria responsible for mud fever. Both contain Metalosan 47, a breakthrough in wound management.

Use Lincoln Muddy Buddy Magic Mud Kure Powder One way to avoid this painful condition, which can result in stable during the initial painful stages- no need to touch the rest and veterinary treatment, is by supporting your horse nutritionally wound! The Lincoln Muddy Buddy Magic Mud Kure by feeding Think Mud. This unique supplement cuts out having to apply Cream and Powder can be used in conjunction with barrier creams daily and can even provide support in cases where mud each other. The cream is priced at £19.99 for 200g, fever has already taken hold. Think Mud is a daily supplement designed to and the powder is priced at £25.99. help maintain skin integrity during wet and muddy conditions. It helps to

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For more information visit www.battles.co.uk/lincoln

support condition from within and maintain the horse’s natural defences giving the best chance of effectively fighting off the bacteria present in mud. The complex natural ingredients maintain a healthy immune system, support blood circulation and skin integrity. Priced at £30.95 for 1.5kg and £65.95 for 4kg tubs.

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For more information visit www.brinicombe-equine.co.uk

Giveaways

MaxaBiotic supplement

worth £24.95

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p for In this fantastic giveaway, six winners tubs u ! b will each win themselves a tub of MaxaBiotic a gr s supplement. Containing natural prebiotic and probiotic ingredients, plus Green Lipped Mussel, this helps to maintain a healthy, balanced digestive system.

Live yeast is added to encourage the growth of friendly bacteria, with dietary fibre and Alfalfa to help maintain regular gut function. The addition of Green Lipped Mussel is designed to help ease irritation and promote intestinal health. Green Lipped Mussel is known for its high levels of Omega-3 ETA fatty acids which have natural soothing properties.

MaxaBiotic is suitable for feeding in times of stress and as a daily supplement for horses with digestive problems.

worth £20.00

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Keep fingers cosy and smart this autumn with the Grey Tartan Snaffle Bit Gloves up for pairs s! from Carrots. The ‘snaffle bit’ design is one grab of the hottest trends on the catwalk, and is being spotted in many top designers’ collections – and of course for the equestrian market it brings a horsey connection to daily wear. Offering a lightweight, warm glove with a comfortable stretch fit, these offer maximum flexibility and dexterity to make them practical whether you are riding, spectating, at the yard, driving or out shopping!

Featuring leather reinforcement on the fingers and thumb, the Grey Tartan Snaffle Bit Gloves provide extra support, grip and durability.

Available in one size only.

up for grabs!

Fibre-Beet conditioning feed

worth £12.00

A Super Fibre conditioning feed, Fibre-Beet is a formulated blend containing all the benefits of the original Speedi-Beet product with added high quality Alfalfa for optimum condition, and to provide quality protein for muscle tone and function. Ideal for horses prone to digestive upsets and very palatable for fussy eaters, Fibre-Beet has added biotin for hoof quality and is approved by The Laminitis Trust. Fibre-Beet can also be used as a forage replacer (up to 40% of the daily forage allowance). Soaked and ready to feed in only 45 minutes in cold water, or 15 minutes in hot water.

Snuggy Hoods Turn Out Hood

Carrots Snaffle Bit Gloves

12

worth £80.00

2

up for grabs!

The Snuggy Hoods Turn Out Hood is designed to be used all year round. In the winter it protects horses and ponies from the elements; it not only keeps your horse mud free, but toasty warm too. The Snuggy Hoods Turn Out Hood has an adjustable nose for a better fit, a no seam mane line and water repellancy as well.

Along with the shoulder lining and self-fixing surcingle, it is also fully breathable and machine washable. The Snuggy Hoods Turn Out Hood can also be used the night before a show to keep your horse clean and their plaits in place. It is an incredibly versatile hood!

agazine.co.u m e n e c s e rs o .h w w w e.

Enter online at: ll T&C’s on our websit ber 2013. See fu Closes: 30th Septem

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Stifle issues Anatomy

The equine stifle is the equivalent joint to the human knee, however, unlike in people, stifle injuries are relatively rare in horses. The anatomy of the equine stifle is complex, with three compartments and variable communications between them. The femoropatellar joint lubricates the movement of the patella (knee cap) past the femur and the medial (inside) and lateral (outside) femorotibial joints lubricate the movement of the femur

Clinics...

Breadstone 01453 811867 Cardiff 02920 899200 Failand 01275 392956 Willesley 01666 880501

www.bwequinevets.co.uk

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past the tibia. Each femorotibial joint has a meniscus interposed between the femur and the tibia, which is a wedge of stiff rubbery tissue that aids in shock absorption and joint stability. The menisci are held in position by ligaments at the front and back of the joint and the tibia is held in position relative to the femur by the cruciate ligaments centrally and the collateral ligaments at the inside and outside of the joint.

Stifle issues fall into 3 categories: developmental conditions, nonpenetrating traumatic injuries and penetrating traumatic injuries. A large number of the resulting conditions require surgical intervention to give the best (or in some cases only) chance of recovery and most risk the horse’s athletic career and some endanger the horse’s life.

early stages. The condition usually becomes apparent at a young age and is most often detected before the horse is 5 years old. Occasionally older horses develop sudden onset lameness and swelling when a weak area of cartilage and bone is dislodged during normal exercise. That can cause additional distress when it happens soon after a horse has been bought but often has no signs to predict its occurrence.

Figure 1 Radiograph of a stifle showing bone fragments emanating from the lateral trochlear ridge of the femur

Developmental conditions When the embryonic skeleton develops in the uterus it is initially made up of cartilage. That cartilage is gradually replaced by bone in a process known as endochondral ossification. That process is also used during bone growth, where the cartilage at the end of the bone grows outwards and is gradually converted to mineral tissue resulting in the bone lengthening. Osteochondrosis (OCD) is a condition that results from failure of the progress of endochondral ossification which leads to sites of weakness in repeatable locations, the stifle being one of the most commonly affected sites.

There are 2 sites within the stifle that are most often affected, but in different ways. The lateral trochlear ridge of the femur is the most common site of OCD in the stifle and manifests as bony fragmentation (see figure 1). The fragmentation disrupts the smooth gliding surface of the femur which causes damage to the patella as it slides past and the loose fragments within the joint cause persistent inflammation.

That results in extra fluid within the joint but often little or no lameness in the

OCD is normally diagnosed with radiographs (see figure 1) but ultrasonography of the joint surfaces can be useful in cases of joint swelling without radiographic changes.

Treatment of OCD in the stifle almost always requires surgery to remove the loose fragments of bone and cartilage.

In some foals the disease is treated with rest and reduced feeding initially to allow healing of non-displaced fractures.

Surgery involves removal of loose bone and cartilage using arthroscopy (keyhole surgery) (see figure 2) and generally carries an excellent prognosis for an athletic future. The outlook is more guarded if there is extensive damage to the patella or more widespread secondary damage to the articular surfaces of the joint.

Horses’ joints do not tolerate infection and penetration of the joint capsule is always a life threatening condition. The stifle is relatively well protected by soft tissues but kick wounds and lacerations can result in an infected joint. Stifles can also become infected by blood borne bacteria in foals as with other joints. As with all infected joints, these are veterinary emergencies and require immediate referral to a surgical centre. They should always be treated by early vigorous lavage with arthroscopy which also allows removal of foreign material and fibrin (a proteinaceous slime produced by infected joints that can harbour bacteria). They also require intensive antimicrobial therapy, often including injection of antimicrobials directly into the joints. With early aggressive treatment and not too severe traumatic damage to the structures of the joint, the prognosis for survival and an athletic future can be excellent but infected joints remain a serious risk to the survival of the animal.

Figure 2 Fragments being lifted out of a defect in the lateral trochlear ridge of the femur during an arthroscopy

Bone cysts can also develop in the stifle and some of those appear to be developmental in origin. It has been suggested that some result from trauma to the cartilage and bone in older animals and the clinical appearance of these in older horses supports that theory. Bone cysts are defects in the bone supporting the joint which are filled with inflammatory fibrous material which causes inflammation within the joint (see figure 3). The lameness that they cause can be very variable and intermittent but is occasionally severe. Treatment is controversial and has traditionally involved arthroscopic debridement and removal of the fibrous contents of the cyst.

Increasingly a less invasive approach is taken with removal of loose cartilage and bone from the joint surface adjacent to the cyst and injection of steroids into the base of the lesion.

One condition that is very specific to the stifle is upward fixation of the patella. The patella has 3 ligaments that attach it to the tibia, the inside (medial) patella ligament hooks over the medial trochlear ridge, fixing the stifle in extension while the horse is resting. To unhook the patella, muscular effort is required to elevate the patella. Muscle weakness due to immaturity, lack of exercise or primary lameness/ coordination issues elsewhere can result in the horse struggling to unhook the patella when required. That results in the limb being fixed in extension which can be distressing for horse and owner. This condition can usually be treated by treating any underlying conditions and working to strengthen the quadriceps muscles. Sometimes raised heel shoes are fitted and very occasionally surgery is required to thicken the medial patella ligament to facilitate its release from the medial trochlear ridge.

Traumatic injuries Non-penetrating traumatic damage to the stifle appears to result from accidents such as leaving a leg over a solid jump or unknown injuries when turned out. The soft tissues of the stifle, in particular the menisci and cruciate ligaments, are the most commonly affected. Those structures can be damaged to varying degrees which leaves torn fibres of tissue herniating into the joint. The ligaments and menisci are made up of fibres of collagen and when that is exposed to the environment of the joint it stimulates inflammation. The torn fibres may also get repeatedly pulled during movement of the joint which contributes to the lameness. Injuries of this type often cause significant lameness but diagnosing the site of pain can require in-depth investigation, including injections of local anaesthetic into the joints to abolish lameness, radiography and ultrasonography. Because the soft tissues are most often affected there are usually limited changes on radiographs in the early stages of the disease. Less commonly, intra-articular fractures occur following kicks or hitting jumps. All of these conditions require arthroscopic debridement and the prognosis depends on the extent of the damage encountered. They are all potentially career ending injuries and require a prolonged recovery period.

Figure 3 A radiograph of a stifle with a bone cyst (the dark “thumbprint” visible within the body of the bone) of the medial condyle of the femur

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A day modelling for Mountain Horse has got to rank as one of the most unusual that grass roots event rider Chloe Ammonds-Nutt has experienced.

Strike a pose!

Despite having watched countless episodes of ‘America’s Next Top Model’ I am finding it more than a little tricky to channel my inner poser. And as for being able to ‘smise’ (that’s ‘smiling with your eyes’ according to Tyra Banks) well, all I have managed to pull off so far is a sort of grimace with half my face, and a startled rabbit-in-the-headlights expression with the other half. Years of buying my competition photos because ‘the horse looks nice’ has taught me that I am not naturally at ease in front of a camera. It has even become a bit of a standing joke in my family. I regularly enter the dressage arena with my mother’s advice ringing in my ears as I get within reach of the professional photographer’s lens: ‘Try not to pull your Ken Dodd face Chlo,’ she calls encouragingly.

So it is with those pearls of wisdom in my mind that I stare down the lens of the Mountain Horse camera and give it my best shot!

Chloe Ammonds-Nutt is an amateur competition rider with a passion for re-schooling exracehorses and Dustry is her seven-year-old ex-flat racer.

Chloe plans to compete at BD and BS with her main aim to produce Dustry as an eventer for the 2014 season. Read more on her blog gifthorseeventing.co.uk Rosie Williamson is based in Baughurst, Hampshire.

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Diva doubts Only now that I’ve agreed to take part in a photo shoot for Mountain Horse’s winter clothing range have all my old hang ups come flooding back: Am I photogenic enough? Will my horse behave? Should I start practising my smile in the mirror (too little, too late)?

What if the images look awful - will my sponsor drop me? Oh God, the drama!

It seems that even if I can’t manage to

pull off a good photo, at least my ‘model attitude’ is well on the way to full blown diva!

As an amateur grass-roots rider I know how fortunate I am to be sponsored by Mountain Horse and my job in online marketing means I also understand how important it is to ask if there’s any way I can help them out, give something back and make sure they’re getting value out of our partnership.

So when Mountain Horse replied to say they needed me to do some dressage shots, another rider for some show jumping pictures, an impossibly scenic location, a willing male model plus a few dogs thrown in for good measure, naturally I enlisted the power of social media! Through online ‘word of mouth’ I found Rosie Williamson. As luck would have it, Rosie has a lovely yard with lots of scenic backdrops.

She also has a willing boyfriend and two adorable little dogs.

Perfect.

Pre-shoot nerves The anxiety is tangible as Rosie, her boyfriend James, our mums and I all stand about making small talk and admiring our elegant surroundings. All the while we’re actually thinking Eeeeeek! What on earth have we got ourselves into?

socks’) Brand new long boots are hard enough to walk in at the best of times, but brand new long boots, with a different style and colour on each foot is even trickier, and somehow I still have to get on the horse! With one brown boot and one black boot on we save time changing and the photographer can get shots of both boots in one go. A handy time-saving trick - if a little odd looking!

True to form, Dustry is really on his toes when I start to warm up. He does settle after about 20 minutes, by which time I am seriously starting to overheat thanks to all my thermal underwear and winter gear. The photographer wants me to trot along the short side of the arena and then cut down the three quarter line slowly moving back to the fence. This goes well, until he asks us to try it in sitting trot. Dustry has other ideas. After a few failed attempts at sitting trot (or should that be sitting buck?) we decide to stay rising, and get the shot.

The Mountain Horse team soon arrives and we set about doing a recce of the yard and fields looking for appropriate settings. It must look to a bystander like an indecisive ramblers’ meeting, as we all trundle one way and then the other.

The first shot is to be Rosie and James walking the dogs down a wooded path. It’s nice to see someone else go first, so I can take in how it’s all done and work out what is required. I would be lying if I said I’m not getting nervous as my turn rapidly approaches.

Thankfully, due to the nature of the shoot, there’s not much actual posing or pouting required. The aim is to take natural looking shots, to represent the kind of everyday scenes you’d expect to see around the yard. So all my duck-face and strutting practise has been in vain!

Tricks of the trade Photo camp is established in Rosie’s summerhouse at the end of the garden. Having been handed a bundle of clothes for my first shot I scuttle into the loo to get togged up in the right gear. A slight issue arises as I am millimetres away from being able to zip up one of the long boots I’ve been given.

Removing my socks sorts that! (I blame it on having ‘fat

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Behind the scenes Next is a grooming shot with one of Rosie’s greys. The little horse is very sweet and obliging and doesn’t seem to mind at all as I have to repeatedly brush the same spot on his head. What you don’t see in pictures are all the goings on behind the camera. If you could have the horse’s eye view you’d see the Mountain Horse team waving, rattling bottles of stones, jumping about on the drive, and making funny noises in an attempt to get the horse to prick his ears.

I try my best not to squint, blink, or grimace but it’s surprising how hard it is to do a simple thing such as appearing perfectly natural while looking in a certain direction and smiling on request.

Who knew?!

I feel a little self-conscious but the photographer is friendly and relaxed, so that really helps. He even lets us have a sneaky peak at some of the shots on his digital display then and there. It’s reassuring to see that my face seems to be behaving itself so far.

I breathe a sigh of relief when we are asked to provide some atmospheric out-of-focus background shapes for a shot with Rosie in the foreground posing as an instructor.

All we have to do is walk around in circles while Rosie gives us a lesson. Now, this part of being a model I am confident we excelled at. Anyone looking for background detail - you know who to call!

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Take a break It’s not true that models don’t eat. I just find time to fling an egg & cress sandwich, packet of crisps, bar of chocolate and a Diet Coke down my throat before it’s time to get back into the loo for another speedy costume change before the last shot. The final picture is Rosie and me ‘hacking home’.

We find ourselves repeatedly walking up and down a track that leads from the fields to the yard. By this time Dustry is getting a little fidgety. It has been a long day and the evening gnats are starting to bite. He has decided the turn at the bottom of the path is an ‘on your marks, get set, GO!’ moment and it’s getting trickier with each repetition to persuade him otherwise. I still can’t believe how many times the photographer actually says, “Just once more if you don’t mind…”

Magic moment Now, when I look at pictures in equestrian magazines, I have a much better idea what actually goes on in order to capture that one magic moment. The careful stage management of the horses to keep them calm, the meticulous planning of the outfits and dressing the models, even the order of the shots has to be thought about so no-one has ‘hat hair’. The preparation and planning takes so much longer than the actual shooting!

The Mountain Horse catalogue is out in September 2013 and I can’t wait to see the finished article. I am hoping that Dustry’s handsome looks and natural demeanour in front of the camera will distract from any hint of my Ken Dodd face!

Visit www.mountainhorse.co.uk to get your copy of an autumn/winter catalogue.

Rosie and I, on the other hand, are now in full swing. We have perfected the ‘look natural and talk nonsense’ aspect of our jobs and are busy trying not to crack up as we pretend to be chatting and hacking home. I don’t think a career in acting beckons for either of us!

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We have put 3 products to the test this month, check out what our testing panel think to them, their honest opinions may help you to make a good choice...

Dublin Waterproof River Boot

Wolseley Swift clippers

These clippers are brilliant and by far the best I have ever come across.

I found it very easy to get the correct tension and the head of the clippers is specially shaped to make clipping more comfortable. I These boots are absolutely amazing! Not only found this especially so whilst clipping the difficult areas are they waterproof, they have a breathable between the horses legs. The clippers stayed cool whilst membrane which kept my feet cool and dry. I was being used and were much quieter than others I have used on my feet all day and they were the most comfortable before. The air filters were easy to remove and are boots I have ever worn. They are nicely cushioned and washable which makes maintenance much easier. There have a special lining which stopped my feet from sweating! is a choice of blades - medium (A2), coarse (A6) and They are very attractive looking and I even wore them out extra coarse (A7). These clippers come with a 2 year away from the yard where I received many compliments. warranty and are supplied in a very strong red They come in a variety of sizes and widths, which is storage case, complete with a set of blades, clipper great as I find it hard to find boots in a small size. These boots brush and a can of oil. I would highly recommend are highly recommended and well worth the price of £139.99. these clippers as they perform very well, and the price is very competitive.

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For more information visit www.wolseleygrooming.co.uk

For more information visit www.dublinclothing.co.uk

Shirt Joules Burghley Polo

worn. polo tops I have ever st stylish, well-made ing ter flat a it ing This is one of the mo giv lovely ll made and the fit is ar. The we to le ab It is exceptionally we ort mf co y cotton making it ver look. The top is 100% ll contrasting girly lly stands out, with we rea d an g colour is strikin tails, velvet material de top with embroidered l tifu t au be a is It rs. colou n next to the collar. No love the little fox butto d an lish sty is it stripes and I especially in, to ride ortable and practical t in. only is this shirt comf d the shops or go ou un aro lk wa to ar we to gh ou that en p le shi ab an ort mf rkm co y and wo a bargain for the qualit At £44.95 this top is it! mend I would highly recom has gone into it and

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visit For more information www.joules.com

Tackroombreak Wordsearch hunt

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Sudoku challenge