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The Horse Report
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Equine Health Feature
The Horse Report Manure can be an indicator of horse health
By FEEDXL EQUINE NUTRITION TEAM
Gut health is a critical component of overall health and well-being in horses. However, it can be notoriously difficult to monitor, as there’s no easy way to measure it directly.
Fortunately, one of the best indicators of your horse’s digestive health is something that’s always available – their manure. By keeping an eye on your horse’s manure, you can gain valuable insights into how well their hindgut is functioning.
Manure contains several tell-tale signs that reflect the health of your horse’s gut. Characteristics such as consistency, colour, odour, and overall appearance all provide clues about what’s happening inside. In this article, we’ll explore how to assess these features and understand what they mean for your horse’s health.
CONSISTENCY
The consistency of your horse’s manure is one of the most important aspects to monitor. Healthy manure should appear as wellformed faecal balls that are moist and easily breakable.
If the manure is hard and dry or overly loose and water, it could signal an issue with digestion, gut function, or an issue with the overall health of your horse.
However, it’s worth noting that occasional loose manure might simply reflect a dietary change. This can happen during spring, when fresh, green grass becomes available,
or if a horse is moved to a new pasture with different grasses or varied plant growth. Keep track of these changes – while they might not always be a cause for concern, they will help establish what your horse’s “normal” is.
COLOUR
The colour of your horse’s manure can tell you a lot about their diet and digestion. Here are some common colours and what they might indicate:
Brown
Brown manure is considered normal and suggests that your horse’s digestive system is likely to be functioning properly. It means they are absorbing nutrients as expected and eating a well-balanced diet.
Green
Green manure often points to undigested plant material. This can happen when a horse is eating lush, green pasture or highchlorphyll hay like lucerne.
Green manure is typically not a problem
unless it’s accompanied by diarrhoea.
Black, tarry, or abnormally dark manure
If you see black manure in a newborn foal, that’s perfectly normal (it’s called meconium). But if an older horse passes black or dark manure, it could indicate gastrointestinal bleeding, possibly from gastric ulcers or other conditions. If this happens, contact your veterinarian immediately.
Red or bloody manure
Red manure or signs of blood are concerning, as they could indicate substantial bleeding in the right dorsal color on small colon. Conditions such as colitis, parasites, or rectal tears could cause this. Any sign of blood requires immediate veterinary attention.
Yellow
Yellow manure can signal liver disease, restricted bile flow, or difficulty digesting fats. Horses on high-fat or grain-heavy diets may also produce yellow manure. If your horse is lethargic or shows other symptoms, seek veterinary care right away.
Continued page 5
Healthy manure should appear as well-formed balls that are moist and easily breakable.
The Horse Report
Regularly monitor your horse’s manure
Continued from page 4
ODOUR
While smell is subjective, a healthy horse’s manure shouldn’t have a strong or offensive smell. It might have a slightly earthy scent or the aroma of hay or grass, depending on what the horse has been eating.
If the manure has an unusually strong, foul, or acidic odour, this could indicate a digestive problem or infection that requires attention.
OVERALL APPEARANCE
Healthy manure should be moist, wellshaped, and consist of distinct faecal balls, showing that your horse’s digestive system is working as it should. Keep in mind that the size of the faecal balls may vary depending on your horse’s size.
If you notice that your horse’s faecal balls are smaller than usual, it could indicate prolonged transit time through the descending colon. This may be accompanied by mucus, giving the manure a slimy appearance. Horses with dental issues might also pass manure with undigested feed particles, such as whole grains or pieces of hay.
DIARRHOEA IN HORSES
Diarrhoea is characterized by extremely loose, watery manure. It can stem from a range of issues, including bacterial infections, parasites, or reactions to antibiotic treatment.
Diarrhoea can also result from intestinal blood flow problems or electrolyte imbal-
ances, so if your horse has diarrhoea, it’s important to consult your veterinarian.
UNFORMED, ACIDIC STOOLS
Manure that is unformed, has an acidic smell, and is bright green to yellow in colour is a sign of hindgut acidosis. The most common cause of this is large amounts of starch from undigested grain entering the hindgut. Or your horse may have large amounts of fructan entering the hindgut from ryegrass or cereal forages like oat or wheat barley. The fermenting starch and/or fructan upsets the microbial balance and large amounts of acid accumulate. The acid damages the gut wall, “good” fibre fermenting bacteria die, and overall health is compromised. If severe,
it can result in laminitis.
DRY, HARD STOOLS
Manure that is overly dry or hard could indicate dehydration or insufficient water intake. This can sometimes signal that the digestive process is slower than normal, which could be a sign of impending colic.
GRITTY MANURE
Gritty manure, often containing sand, can be a sign of sand accumulation in the colon, a serious condition that requires veterinary intervention, as if significant sand accumulates, it can lead to life-threatening impactions.
VISIBLE PARASITES
If you notice any parasites in your horse’s manure, collect a sample and consult your veterinarian. They may recommend deworming treatment to help control the parasite load.
WHY MANURE MATTERS
Regularly monitoring your horse’s manure is one of the best ways to keep track of their gut health.
Healthy manure should be brown, moist, and consist of well-formed faecal balls. Manure colour can change with diet and other factors, but consistency is key. Any signs of diarrhoea, overly dry stools, gritty manure, or visible parasites should be addressed by your veterinarian. For more information visit www.feedxl.com
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Parasites in your horse’s manure, may indicate a need for worming.
The Horse Report
Feeding horses during seasonal changes
BY LARISSA BILSTON (BAGRSC HONS), Equine Nutritionist, Farmalogic
As the seasons shift from the warmth of summer to the crispness of autumn, and later from the chill of winter to the renewal of spring, horse owners must adapt their feeding strategies to ensure optimal health and performance.
Changes in temperature, pasture quality, and metabolic considerations require thoughtful nutritional adjustments.
Climatic regions should also be considered, as the transition from the wet to dry season in the tropics requires different management strategies compared to the seasonal changes across all four seasons in temperate regions. Here's what every horse owner should consider when managing feeding programs during these transitional periods.
Understanding seasonal nutritional shifts
The forage available to horses varies throughout the year because pasture growth and maturity changes in response to environmental conditions.
Spring and autumn are particularly challenging seasons because they bring fluctuations in grass growth, temperature, and can impact on metabolic sensitivities when plants contain high carbohydrate levels.
To navigate seasonal changes successfully, horse owners must assess forage availability, balance nutrient and sugar intake and monitor their horses for signs of dietary imbalances.
1. Feeding horses in temperate zones
1.1 Adjusting forage availability
During a hot, dry summer in temperate zones when grasses mature and dry off, most horses will have been transitioned on to a quality grass or meadow hay to supplement forage levels. As the weather begins to cool and autumn rains bring fresh grass shoots, continue to feed hay at an appropriately reduced rate as the gut adapts to the change in forage quality. This helps to maintain gut health and minimise scouring.
Grass growth will slow and become less nutritious from mid-autumn and over winter so horses will once again benefit from increased hay supplementation to ensure adequate forage intake.
1.2. Maintaining healthy body condition
As grass growth increases in early autumn, control the size of hard feeds to maintain a healthy body condition.
Some horses may need only a slight reduction in hard feed size, but easy keepers will only need a small amount to carry supplements containing the essential vitamins, minerals needed for optimal health.
As the weather cools, horses require more calories to maintain body heat as temperatures drop.
For horses in light work, forage may provide enough calories to over-winter, but many thoroughbred types, hard-working or older horses may need additional energy sources with more hay and a larger hard feed over winter. It is better to make frequent small changes to the size of meals than to wait until drastic weight gain is required.
1.3. Special considerations for metabolic conditions
Horses with metabolic conditions such as Equine Metabolic Syndrome (EMS) or Insulin Resistance (IR), including some with Cushing's Disease, are prone to laminitis during seasonal transitions. Grass sugar levels are naturally more concentrated in young shoots and after frost, increasing the risk of laminitis.
Metabolic horses require careful management to avoid the high carbohydrate grasses that increase a blood insulin response and trigger laminitis. Recommended management strategies include reducing total intake with the
use of grazing muzzles, strip grazing and removal from grass onto track systems or loafing pads.
These strategies aim to replace high sugar, high starch grass with low carbohydrate teff or rhodes grass hay (which may be soaked to further reduces sugar levels).
When feeding laminitis-prone horses, in addition to managing forage, consider adding DHAomega-3 and specific prebiotics designed to improve insulin sensitivity as part of your risk management plan.
2. Feeding horses in tropical and sub-tropical zones
2.1. Adjusting forage availability
The pasture grasses grown in regions with warm, wet summers are most active during the long days of summer.
As days begin to shorten in late summer and temperatures drop in autumn, tropical grasses mature, go to seed and decline in nutritional value. At this time, horses need good quality forage, mainly in the form of leafy grass hay, with a small proportion of legume hay (such as lucerne), to provide enough protein and total intake for good health.
If pastures contain any temperate species such as ryegrass, horses with metabolic conditions such as Equine Metabolic Syndrome (EMS) or Insulin Resistance (IR) need very careful management during autumn to reduce laminitis risk (see section 1.3 for details).
Continued page 9
The Horse Report
Transitional seasons pose challenges
From page 8
2.2. Maintaining healthy body condition
As grasses become lower quality and less abundant, some horses will need more calories than their grass and hay can provide. Increase the size of hard feeds in response to weight loss but always ensure free choice hay is available for underweight horses. When needed, increase the level of energy (calories) in the diet with a cereal grain (such as oats or barley), a legume grain (e.g. lupins), a 'super fibre' (like beet pulp or soy or lupin hulls) or oil. Or any combination of the above. There are some factors to consider when choosing the most appropriate grain or energy source, including the horse's teeth, their digestive efficiency and how much time and energy the owner can dedicate to meal preparation.
Whole oats can be fed raw, but other cereal grains such as barley and oats must be fed in a cooked form - boiled, pelletised, steamflaked or micronised.
Some super fibres require soaking and whole lupins are also best soaked to soften the seed coat.
The amounts of hard feed required depend on horse size, level of activity or breeding status, amount of energy provided by roughage and the individual horse's metabolism.
3. Considerations for hay-reliant horses
Fresh grass is rich in many vitamins, but vitamins do not store well once grass is cut and cured for hay. Vitamins, especially vitamins A, B and E should be supplemented hay is the major roughage source.
The omega-3 fatty acids naturally supplied by fresh grass do not store in hay. These naturally fats are responsible for providing an antiinflammatory balance in the immune system, countering the pro-inflammatory omega-6 oils contained in hay and hard feeds. There are various ways of supplementing omega-3 fatty acids to tip the omega 3:6 ratio back into a positive balance.
Omega-3 rich supplements include fish oil, certain types of algal powder, chia seeds and linseed (flaxseed) seeds and oils.
When horses eat lots of hay rather than grass, they will drink more because hay contains much less water than fresh grass so be sure to keep water troughs full of clean, cool water. It
is also important to ensure enough salt is fed to keep water intake up and avoid impaction colic.
Salt can be sprinkled through a large bale of free-choice hay, or added to each individual meal.
Low quality hay with a high proportion of stem and little leaf can cause horses to scour. If this occurs, replace up to 30 percent of the daily intake with lucerne hay, or increase grass hay quality by sourcing leafy hay. Increase electrolytes and add a probiotic containing S. boulardii live yeast to improve gut health of horses with diarrhoea.
General best practices for seasonal feeding
Regardless of the season, follow these best practices to help ensure a smooth dietary transition and optimal horse health.
1. Make changes gradually
Any dietary adjustment should be made slowly over 7-14 days to prevent digestive upset. If possible, introduce horses to green grass paddocks gradually, beginning with less than an hour once or twice a day and slowly increase.
Sudden changes in feed or forage can disrupt the gut microbiome and lead to colic or diarrhea. Horses with gut sensitivities who scour or develop fecal water syndrome with signifi-
cant changes in pasture, can benefit from supplementation with probiotic live yeast (especially Saccharomyces boulardii and cerevisiae) or hindgut buffers and to help maintain a more stable hind gut pH.
2. Monitor body condition regularly
Seasonal changes in pasture quality and availability can cause fluctuations in body fat. Use a body condition scoring system to track weight and adjust feed as necessary. Small, frequent changes are better than fewer, large dietary adjustments.
3. Balance nutrients properly
Ensure that horses receive a well-balanced diet with appropriate levels of:
- Fibre (the primary energy source) from forage
- Proteins (for muscle maintenance and repair) from leafy forage and legume grains or forage
- Fats (for omega-3 balance and to add energy without excess carbohydrates)
- Vitamins and minerals (essential for immune function, hoof health, and overall well-being)
- Electrolytes - Don't forget salt in winterhorses still need at least 7g of salt per 100kg bodyweight in cold weather, and it encourages them to keep drinking when it is cool.
4. Work with equine nutrition experts
Consulting an equine nutritionist or a veterinarian with a special interest in nutrition can help fine-tune feeding plans based on individual horse needs, workload, and metabolic conditions.
This can ultimately save on costs through a reduction in unnecessary supplements, improved 'fuel efficiency' and better immune function.
Conclusion
Feeding horses during the transitional seasons of autumn and spring requires careful planning and proactive management.
By understanding the unique challenges of each season, whether it's maintaining body weight or preventing laminitis, owners can ensure their horses remain healthy, happy, and well-nourished.
Through gradual dietary adjustments, close monitoring, and a well-balanced feeding regimen, horses can thrive through seasonal changes.
The Horse Report Does my horse need a hoof supplement?
By RANVET
Hoof care can be confusing, especially if a horse suffers from hoof issues.
There is a lot of different advice out there, and choosing the best plan for you and your horse can be tricky. There are many things to consider, and everyone’s situation is different. Poor hoof condition can be influenced by environment, genetics, regularity of hoof care, workload and nutrition, to name a few.
There are factors we can control and some we can’t – so you may ask yourself, “Does my horse need a hoof supplement?”
Hoof supplements are designed to boost the critical nutrients associated with hoof health, condition and strength.
As a result, some of the more common conditions that could benefit from feeding hoof supplements are:
- Recovering from or frequent/recurring hoof abscesses
- Poor hoof growth
- Cracked or brittle hooves
- Bruises
- Corns
- Soft or thin soles
- Thin hoof walls
- Seedy Toe
- White Line disease
- Laminitis
If you are concerned that your horse may have one of the above conditions and are unsure how best to manage the condition, booking a consultation with your veterinarian or farrier to confirm the diagnosis and treatment would be the best course of action.
From there, you can start your horse on a hoof supplement to assist with recovery.
Ranvet’s Hoof Food PELLETT contains all the necessary ingredients to help you build strong, healthy hooves in an easy 30-gram maintenance dose to help keep your horse’s hooves in the best possible condition. Hoof supplements can be mixed into the daily ration with ease. For further information visit www.ranvet.com.au
Equine Health Feature
The Horse Report Biotin and how does it help my horses’ hooves
By RANVET
What is Biotin and how does it help my horses’hooves?
Biotin is part of the B Group Vitamin Family. This means that Biotin, as with all Vitamin Bs, is water-soluble and constantly excreted through sweat, urination or fluid loss. Due to the constant loss and inability to store, daily supplementation is beneficial to ensure replenishment of these vitamins to meet our horses’daily needs.
Biotin is found in fresh forage and grains, but the levels found naturally are not always enough, especially for horses that have high performance demands or suffer from poor hoof growth.
Through decades of research, Biotin has been shown to improve the growth of hooves.
It plays an important role in stimulating Keratin production, a protein that helps form a strong hoof structure.
It also contributes to the creation of collagen and elastin, other essential nutrients for good healthy hooves.
The addition of Biotin to your ration won’t fix existing hoof damage, however it will improve the growth and quality of new hoof horn, promoting a good strong hoof wall, sole and frog.
It’s important to note it doesn’t increase the rate of hoof growth, but the new growth is greatly improved and will be stronger and healthier.
It can take anywhere from 8-12 months to fully grow out the old weak damaged hoof depending on the growth rate of the hoof. So, you need to be patient to see the full results.
Biotin is found in many feeds, however supplementation is the most beneficial way of adding biotin to you horse’s diet, as it is in a more stable form.
Biotin is even more effective when feed in combination with other essential ingredients such as Gelatin, Sulphur, Methionine,
Choline, Zinc, Magnesium and MSM.
The average 500kg horse requires approximately 15mg/day of biotin for healthy hoof formation, as per the Nation Research Council guidelines.
Once you have grown out nice strong, healthy hooves, it is advisable to maintain your horse on your chosen hoof supplement as it has been shown that when supplementation has ceased, the hoof is at risk of potentially reverting back to its prior state.
Book a Nutrition Talk
Would you like to book a nutrition talk for your club or riding group? Ranvet's team of nutrition specialists can attend your event or training day and provide an educational talk on Equine Health and Nutrition. Simply complete the form below and one of our team members will be in touch to book a date and time. If you have any further questions, please feel free to reach out on 1800 727 217 or via email at info@ranvet.com.au
Biotin added to the horse’s diet will improve the growth and quality of the new hoof
The Horse Report
Equine Health Feature
The Horse Report Feeding and caring for the laminitic horse
By FEEDXL EQUINE NUTRITION TEAM
Laminitis can be time consuming, painful for your horse and heartbreaking for you.
Aproper diet can make it a whole lot easier. Amajority of laminitis cases are due to insulin dysregulation. For this reason, a diet based on low non-structural carbohydrate (NSC; starch + sugars) forage is vital.
Good quality protein is important for aiding in recovery, especially of the hoof. And meeting requirements for vitamins and minerals is also a must for general health and immune function.
The good news is, feeding a laminitic horse doesn’t have to be difficult.
The following are some guidelines for making it easier; first is getting the basics right. Then we fine-tune for weight changes. And finally, there are some tips on dealing with boredom and associated problems like hoof repair.
Getting the basics right
Alow NSC forage should make up most of the diet.
Never feed grain, grain by-products or molasses.
Make sure the diet is balanced for vitamins and minerals.
Base the diet on low NSC pasture or hay. All horse diets should be based on forage and the laminitic horse is no different. However, they need low NSC forages. There are a few ways you can give your horse access to low NSC forages.
These are:
Graze in the very early hours of the morning from 2 hours before until 2 hours after sunrise.
This is when pasture NSC levels are lowest. If you are unable to control the hours of the day your horse is allowed to graze, use a grazing muzzle to reduce your horse’s intake of pasture.
Feed hays that are typically low in NSC. These include mature or stemmy subtropical grass hays like Rhodes grass and mature, stemmy or weather damaged lucerne hay. If you can’t access these kinds of hays, soak the hay you do have available in warm water for 30 minutes to 2 hours or in cold water for 2 to 10 hours*, draining and feeding. Do not give your horse access to the soaking water.
* In warm climates, avoid soaking for longer than 2 hours.
Avoid any hays that are known to have high levels of NSC, including ryegrass hay, oaten, wheaten or barley hay.
Lucerne haylage or silage that has been produced specifically for horses is also a low NSC forage option (no molasses added). Never feed a grain or grain-by-productbased feed.
If your horse needs extra feed in addition to the low NSC forage you are feeding, you must be very careful when selecting a suitable feed. You should never feed a laminitic horse with a feed that has any of the following ingredients:
- Oats, corn, wheat, rice, triticale, rye, barley
or other cereal grains.
- Wheatfeed, millrun, millmix, broll, bran (rice or wheat), pollard, middlings or any other variation of these ingredients.
- Any form of steam- flaked, micronised or extruded grain.
Read all labels and lists of ingredients carefully before buying a feed. And it is buyer beware.
Many feeds that contain grain ‘by-products’ like wheatfeed/millrun, bran or pollard advertise themselves as being ‘grain-free’. This is grossly misleading and these feeds present as much danger to your laminitic horse as a feed that contains grain.
Other feeds claim to be ‘Low GI’, but again, if they contain any of the ingredients listed above, they should be avoided for laminitic horses.
And finally, watch out for molasses in feeds as this can make feed high in sugar.
FeedXLwill help you select suitable feeds that do not contain these ingredients by highlighting all unsuitable feeds for laminitic horses. Very few feeds are truly suitable for a laminitic horse.
In severe cases of laminitis horses will lie down as they find it too painful to stand.
The Horse Report
Dedicated to providing a high level of on farm veterinary care to horses in the Gold Coast and the Northern Rivers
BONE Gold nutritional bone joint and collagen supplement was formulated to provide some of the essential amino acid requirements of collagen type I, II and III (found in bone and connective tissue) in addition to supporting the nitric oxide pathway which has been found to assist in the formation of bone callus postinjury.
Veterinary surgeons have recommended that Bone Gold may assist with sore shins, tendon injuries, ligament injuries, osteoarthritis and post-surgery in horses and polyarthritis, geriatric osteoarthritis, and post-surgery in dogs.
Here is a veterinary radiographic report on a horse with a fracture evident on the medial toe and after treatment and feeding Bone Gold during this period. More information on these products can be found at www.vetgold.com.au
VETERINARY RADIOGRAPHIC REPORT
HORSE: "XXXXXXXX"
DATES OF EXAMINATION: 26TH AUG, 21ST OCT 21 & 17TH NOV '21
PLACE: XXXXXXXXXX FARM
XXXXXXX's left and right front feet were radiographed on 26th Aug, 21st Oct (8 weeks) and again on the 17th Nov '21(12 weeks).
RADIOGRAPHS:
26.08.21: Right Front: Large P3 solar margin fracture evident on medial toe 32.6mm x 4.1mm with approximately 1.4mm separation from parent bone as below left image.
21.10.21: Right Front: Fine residual 4.2mm fracture still evident, approximately 90% resolution
17.11.21: Right Front: Fracture fully resolved
RECOMMENDATIONS:
Radiographic results as of the 17th Nov '21 show total resolution of the original fracture.
XXXXXXX was reshod today utilising off an alloy shoe with a toe clip - inner circumference seated out to avoid any sole pressure.
The horse can return to training. Please do not hesitate to contact me if you have any further queries
COMMENTS:
Solar margin Type IV fractures of this magnitude have well-documented internationally published healing rates of 7 - 12 months. Full resolution of these fractures is rare as most often the fracture fragments are resorbed.
Full resolution in a 3 month period was not anticipated.
The horse was on Bone Gold 3 x scoops fed once per day for this period.
"Go to our webpage or scan the QR Code to see more Bone Gold Radiographic results"
The Horse Report
“BYE BYE FLY”
QUEENSLAND ITCH, SWEET ITCH, SUMMER ECZEMA and EQUINE ALLERGIC DERMATITIS are names for distressing skin conditions which affects horses in spring and summer months throughout Australia and around the world.
The usual cause is a hypersensitivity to the bites of flies (in particular sand flies or midges).
While the bite of the flies are an irritation, some horses develop sensitivity to the bite and will rub themselves so much that they cause injury to their skin.
Research shows the cause is an allergic reaction to the chemicals in the saliva of the midges (as with humans).
Not only that, but once or twice a day, stable lies come to the horse, feed vigorously for a minute or two, and then return to the shade to digest their food. These bites can cause intense irritation in some horses. The bites appear as small raised lumps with a central scab.
The effects on the horses can be dramatic. They suffer intense pruritus (itchiness) on the mane, tail, face, ears and back, resulting in biting, rubbing, hair loss, self-trauma and a change of temperament. They become miserable and irritable.
KURITCH has been specially formulated to help assist this problem effectively, in a number of ways:
Firstly, it repels the biting insects using the combination of the natural repellent “Citronella Oil” and a highly effective repellent “DEET”. Secondly, it soothes the irritated areas thus relieving the horse from biting and rubbing, which in turn allows the normal healing process to begin.
Also rugging, hooding or stabling your horses between the hours of 4pm – 7am during spring and summer will limit the contact of the flies.
Should your horse already be suffering from the effects of allergic skin dermatitis, ensure you use QUIT ITCH to treat and relieve the effects of insect bites.
Since the 1970’s, QUIT ITCH has been an essential weapon in the fight against skin disorders in horses.
It achieves this by the inclusion of the natural antiseptic “Eucalyptus oil” and Camphor oil” which naturally relieves itchy skin.
These significant benefits are also enhanced by the “Rain Resistant” and “Low irritant” formula. As it doesn’t contain alcohol (prevalent in most fly sprays) it won’t “sting” the horse. It can also be applied to surface wounds, minor cuts and skin abrasions to help prevent irritation and possible infection by nuisance insects.
Registered by the APVMA in Australia for over 40 years, extensive field experience has proven KURITCH to be a most effective solution for both preventing and healing distressing skin conditions caused by biting insects.
As well as KURITCH as a repellent, environmental management will also assist in protecting your horse.
Midges breed near stagnant water. As they don’t fly more than a few hundred metres from their breeding area, housing or paddocking your horses more than 500 metres from those areas will reduce their exposure to the flies.
The Horse Report Flaxseed oil for horses – Effects & benefits
Many horse owners, breeders and trainers are now starting to feed some form of oil as part of the diet. Whether it be for a shiny coat, or an energy source, there are several types of oil available.
Flax Seed Oil will provide fantastic results in terms of soft, shiny coats and the energy provided, but the key advantage of using Flax Seed Oil over other readily available oils is the Omega 3 content.
Flax Seed Oil provides the richest (almost 60%) natural source of Omega 3, an essential fatty acid (EFA) which is not generally present in equine foods.
Like all animals, horses cannot manufacture this essential fatty acid which is so important for their overall health.
Grain is a common ingredient of many modern horse feeds, and contains high levels of Omega 6, another Essential Fatty Acid. Every horse needs to obtain both Omega 3 and 6 in the diet, as they cannot be produced by the body, hence the term 'Essential'.
However, very few horse feeds contain sufficient amounts of Omega 3, and it is this lack of Omega 3 and too much Omega 6 that is often cited as the cause for several inflammatory conditions such as laminitis, arthritis and skin problems.
Supplementing your horse's daily feed with Flax Seed Oil can help to rectify the imbalance of Omega 6 and 3, and help to avoid all sorts of inflammatory conditions, as well as supporting the immune, circulatory and digestive systems.
On top of this, their coats will become soft
and shiny, their skin will be healthy, their joints will be supported, muscles will repair quickly and their hooves will become strong and less prone to cracking!
And as an energy source, Flax Seed Oil is second to none, with the equivalent amount of energy being provided in one cup of oil as four cups of grain.
It is therefore ideal for race horses and endurance events, with the added advantage of muscles recovering quickly after exercise due to the high content of Omega 3. Research also suggests that feeding a diet rich in Omega-3 fatty acids can help to improve semen quality and its tolerance to freezing and thawing.
Below are some of the key benefits of adding Omega 3 rich Flax Seed Oil to your horse's diet:
Dry, itchy skin conditions and hair loss issues can be improved naturally.
Can reduce the risk of allergies and allergic reactions such as Queensland itch.
The anti-inflammatory nature of Omega 3 can combat inflammation and inflammatory conditions such as laminitis.
Joint pain, reduced mobility, tying up and muscular cramps can be reduced, recovery times following exercise are decreased, as the high Omega 3 content aids the breakdown of lactic acid.
Horses can become less 'fizzy', due to the oil being a fat source not a carbohydrate source.
Hooves become stronger.
Coats become shiny and soft
Gastrointestinal disorders and digestion is helped.
It is recommend that Flax Seed Oil be keep it in the fridge or in a cool dark place such to keep it away from sunlight.
The suggested daily feeding rate of 30ml70ml of oil is a starting point. This will help your horse to adjust to the oil, and is a perfect amount for general health and conditioning. If you have a miniature horse, you should be feeding roughly 30ml per day, a pony should be fed around 40ml per day, upwards to a horse of 17hh should be fed around 60ml per day. You should see results within 10-14 days, as long as the oil is fed every day. For further information visit www.flaxseedaustralia.com.au
The Horse Report
What makes Rose-Hip Vital Equine stand
There are in fact many reasons. It all starts with the humble Rosehip, the berry-like fruit of the wild rose bush species Rosa Canina. A wholefood known to be one of nature’s richest sources of natural vitamin C. A superfood containing 8 naturally occurring vitamins (including C, E, B1 and B6) and 23 minerals (including iron, copper, zinc and magnesium), essential fatty acids (omegas 3, 6 and 9),
You may already know rosehips are often fed to horses for immune system support and a
improved circulation and improved digestive function. So you’re probably wondering what makes Rose-Hip Vital® so special?
Rose-Hip Vital® is made from Rosehips manufactured with patented extraction and drying processes which isolate and activate a galactolipid (fatty acid) called GOPO®. GOPO® has clinically proven anti-
The patented processes also concentrate and preserve the naturally occurring vitamins and minerals, transforming Rose-Hip Vital® into a product that is both in a category all on its own, and across many; It’s a joint
antioxidant and a nutritional supplement. It delivers noticeable improvements to mobility, mood, condition, willingness to move forward, performance and recovery while reducing
improving general health and wellbeing, and boosting immunity.
Rose-Hip Vital® is a clinically proven plantand rich source of natural vitamin C. There is no product like it. Unlike other joint supplements, Rose-Hip Vital® is 100% plant-
Rose-Hip Vital® is safe for long term use and it does not swab. It can be used alongside conventional treatments and supplements as well as potentially replacing or reducing the medication.
Horses like it so much, even the fussiest of eaters become more enthusiastic about their feed once Rose-Hip Vital is added. So while Rose-Hip Vital Equine has become a highly use, it also has become highly recommended for improving general health and wellbeing, improving performance and maintaining healthy joints.
How does Rose-Hip Vital® Equine lengthen the lifetime of a working horse?
Vital is comprehensive. There are in excess of placebo controlled clinical trials on people, dogs and horses mainly focusing on antithe unique compound GOPO.
To many people, antioxidants and anti-aging go hand-in-hand. Antioxidants are talked about as the antidote to cell-damaging free radicals. Exercise and the associated stress and increase in oxygen consumption are linked to an increased production of free radicals. When the production of free radicals overwhelms the body’s antioxidant defences, oxidative stress can occur with subsequent
research shows horses need natural vitamin C to help block toxic free radical activity, which causes damage throughout the body including joints and cartilage.
Some white blood cells in the body contain granulocytes which enable them to ‘clean’
bacteria in it. Too many of these white blood cells wear down tissue cartilage. In large numbers they can also produce chemical enzymes and toxic freeradicals which cause even more tissue damage. Excess accumulation of white blood cells combined with the release of chemical substances cause’s joint pain
The more becomes, the more the white blood cells are attracted to it –a painful cycle.
protects cartilage. This means it helps to delay the onset of arthritic changes or slow down further cartilage degeneration if it already exists.
In short, if you want to extend the lifetime of your working horse, feed it a natural antirich source of natural vitamin C. Rose-Hip Vital® Equine is your only option, and the results speak for themselves.
1-5 2025 Adelaide Equestrian Festival 17-18 LVRC Masters Weekend
SHOWHORSE
www.agsshowsnsw.org.au www.qcas.net.au
www.vicagshows.com.au www.sacountryshows.com
APRIL
4 Wandoan 4-5 Camden Show
4-6 Gunnedah Show
5 Gayndah
8-12 2025 Grand Nationals
11-12 Dalby 11-12 Dirranbandi
12 Nanango 18-19 Mount Perry
25-27 Stroud Show
25-26 Moree Show
25-26 Wauchope Show
26 Goombungee-Haden
26 The Caves
26 Monto
27 EQ Anzac Show @ Park Ridge
29-30 Kempsey Show
MAY
2-3 Goondiwindi
2-3 Bonalbo Show
2-4 Bathurst Royal Show
2-3 Macksville Show
2-4 Narrabri Show
3-4 Kingaroy
6-7 Maclean Show
9-10 Grafton Show
11 NNSW Hack & Breed Show @ Maclean Showgrounds
25 Qld Riding Pony of the Year @ Park Ridge TRAIL RIDING & CTR
Australian Trail Horse Riders Association0418 438 807 www.athra.com.au
Alligator Creek 0407 117 998
Beaudesert Shire 0429 443 237
Beechmont & District 0419 737 253
Bouldercombe 0418 715 837
Breakaway 0408 712 851
Brisbane Valley 0428 750 145
Border Country Trail Riders 0409 224 605
Cairns Trail Horse Club 0408 727 616
Calen Trail & Sports Club 0412 804 974
Cooloola Trail riders Ph 07 5482 8436
CTHC-Caboolture ph 07 5498 6068
Curtis & District 0438 111 091
Dayboro Trail Riders to 0432 186 200
Email - dayboro.trailriders@gmail.com
Ipswich & District 0457 881 012
Logan River Redlands 0418 715 786
Mudgeeraba & Hinterland 0407 902 754
Nth West Qld Trail Riders 0429 309 280
Rathdowney Trail Riding 07 5544 1177
Richmond River Trail Horse Riders Club 0447 668 953 / rrthrc@gmail.com
Saturday Horse Activities 0408 361 215
SCATER www.scater.com.au
Ph: 07 5478 8676 or 0417 612 061
Somerset Trail Riding Club - 0418 438 807
Sunny Coast Trail Club - 0428 176 557
Tweed-Byron Trail Riders 0418 400 047
Toowoomba Trail Riders 0419 614 426
Toowoomba's Cumburrie 0429 663 397
Trail Riding Australia 0458 342 067
Wide Bay Trail Riders 07 4126 3456 WESTERN www.aqha.com.au
APRIL
12-13 NNSW Regional Working Equitation
Champs @ Hawthorne Park
12-13 Top End Western Horse Club - B Show
Malanda Indoor Arena (Malanda Showgrounds)
19-20 Wide Bay Working Equitation Inc - Horse of the Year 2025
Ph: Ph: 02 6672 3898 E: E: admin@theriversequinevets.com.au P: P: 2/11 Buchanan Street, South Murwillumbah 2484 W W :: www.theriversequinevets.com.au
All ages Beginnerto Royal orNational level Show Horse, Pony Club, RiderClass, Dressage Clinics, Plaiting, Show Prep
BARE EQUESTRIAN COLLECTION
Featuring high-quality gear designed for comfort or training, Bare Equestrian offers a range of riding apparel, ensuring you and your horse are well-equipped.
BAXTER BOOTS
Baxter is a family owned business dating back to 1980.They create handmade genuine leather boots. Baxter have a wide range of Western, English, Gumboots and Hiking Boots
WILD HORSE AUSTRALIA
Wild horse Australia offers a wide range of long term insect control-treated rugs and fly veils that have a unique, patented 3 dart design increasing airflow and visibility.
Lessons at your place or local arena - I travell to you - Gold Coast - Tweed - Lismore - Ballina Ph 0413 733 294
The Horse Report Ensure you’re safe when towing a horse float
Owning and towing a horse float requires maintenance, careful planning and driving to ensure the safety of the horses and the driver.
Check the vehicle's owner's manual for the towing capacity.
Make sure the hitch and wiring are working properly.
Ensure the horse float is not overloaded and that the horses and equipment are secure. Make sure the trailer is attached to your vehicle with the correct chains and cables, ensure the safety chains are properly attached and rated for the trailer's Aggregate Trailer Mass (ATM).
Know your float and its contents weight and what are its braking requirements.
The law states if the GTM (gross trailer mass, the weight of the trailer and its payload) is over 2,000kg, the vehicle should be fitted with an electric braking system and a breakaway system.
Did you know that being overweight can result in serious fines of up to $1500 or in the event of an accident, your insurance provider may decline your claim?
Brakes - The Electric Braking System is controlled from the inside of the cab of the tow vehicle to offer more or less trailer braking via wires connected to the trailer braking system. When the system is adjusted correctly, the car and trailer will pull up nice and straight and prevent the trailer from pushing the car forward.
The Breakaway System is activated if and whenever the trailer/float becomes separated
from the vehicle. There is a wire lanyard from the drawbar of the trailer to the tow vehicle, not the tow hitch.
If pulled free, it will activate the trailer brakes independently of the vehicle brakes, via a battery on the trailer.
This stops the trailer from careering off on its own and the brakes must stay on for 15 minutes.
With this system, it is important to check the battery charge and that it is charging via the trailer plug. Ideally, this should be checked before every trip.
In NSW it is mandatory to have an in-vehicle battery monitor.
Tyres – Check tyre pressures and make sure the tyres are wearing evenly. The correct tire pressure for a horse float depends on the weight of the load. Agood starting point is
40 pounds per square inch (PSI) Why is correct tire pressure important? Correct tire pressure helps reduce fuel consumption, helps reduce the risk of tire wear. and helps ensure a smooth ride for your horse and safe towing.
Overseas studies indicate that 75 per cent of blowouts are caused by under-inflation, which can cause dangerous heat build-up in a tyre.
Maintenance - Horse float maintenance should include regular cleaning, checking the tires and bearings, and performing professional inspections. Cleaning and remove all manure and damp bedding, Scrubing the mats, Hosing down the floor, Raise the float to drain moisture, and ensure the float is completely dry after it is used.
Continued page 27
The Horse Report
Float maintenance and servicing is a must
From from 26
Have your float regularly serviced.
Trailer and caravan manufacturers recommend that wheel bearings and brakes should be serviced every 10,000km or 12 months
The wheel bearings should be checked and re-greased six to 12 months after purchase, then 12 monthly thereafter.
Wheel nuts should be checked to ensure tightness after the first 200km and than six monthly intervals thereafter.
Suspension grease nipples must be regularly checked and re-greased every 12 months. Check that the lights and indicators are all in good working order.
Get underneath your float and have a good look at the floor and suspension – you might find a torch helps.
You are looking for obvious signs of fatigue such as: cracks in the welds and frame, rust, bowed or bent support beams, cracked or sagging flooring, broken brake lines and frayed wiring.
Now get inside your float and pull up the back edge of the rubber matting – check for signs of deterioration in the floor and rust in the frame where the tailgate attaches. It is also important to check your float windows and access points for any water leaks that may appear due to movement of the float and normal wear and tear.
If a water leak is found, it is crucial to rectify this straight away to avoid any damage to the paintwork or structure of your float.
Normal silicone sealant is fine for this.
Preventative maintenance and care is the key factor in keeping your float looking brand new, as well as safe.
If you service your float annually and conduct regular visual safety checks, you should get years of reliable and safe use from your horse float and be comfortable knowing your “passenger” is safe.
Before setting out on a trip always check and adjust mirrors, check tyres and tyre pressure, check lights and brakes are all working. Check it is hooked up correctly and hand
Thank you R & AMobile Servicing – Caravans and Trailers for the very professional job you recently completed servicing our horse float.
Our 2HSL2004 PBLfloat was in need of a service and I really wanted the convenience of having this completed at home.
Having seen a recent post from R & AMobile Servicing I thought I would reach out to see if they worked on horse floats and I’m so glad that I did –everything from the enquiry, quote and booking process through to the professional, quality service provided was faultless.
Their pricing was great and fitted my budget. Not only was the requested service completed promptly, a last minute request to replace the old lights with an LED panel was no problem and they quickly arranged parts and fitted the same day. I could not recommend Rob & Amanda more highly.
Lisa Davis - CarbrookQld
brake is released.
When towing a float, always remember you have live animals on board, drive to suit conditions.
Slow down before entering corners and curves and pulling out of a driveways. Use a lower gear when traveling downhill to reduce strain on the brakes.
Avoid sudden lane changes and changes of direction, leave more space between you and the vehicle in front to allow time for braking Always take regular rest stops for the driver and the horses on long trips.
The Horse Report Your Horse Deserves A Better Ride...OzGlide
What is the Oz Glide?
The Oz Glide concept is unique. It is the only hitch dampening system available in Australia that offers a smooth ride in both tow vehicle and the trailer.
While the Oz Glide does not change the static ball weight, it delivers a smoother ride by reducing the downward impact applied to the vehicle tow ball through its airbag and shock absorption system.
As a result you will achieve a smoother and safer ride. When applied to a horse float you will have the added benefit of reducing stress to livestock.
Following extensive testing the Oz Glide system has met Australian Design Rules and will provide you with an assurance of a quality product which will enhance your towing experience while delivering increased safety.
New Products
The Horse Report All new Hoof Safe Shine product
By NOLIAN ENTERPRISES
All new Hoof Safe Shine is a revolutionary permeable and breathable product for the hoof polish industry prioritising the health and welfare of animals while maintaining high performance standards for the competitive show ring.
It is a human-safe, naturally green, plantbased liquid polish formula designed to cover the entire hoof whilst still allowing the hoof to breath and maintaining high shine, fast drying and durable covering black or white hooves.
It is oxygen-friendly and permeable to air and water vapor to the hooves, making it a safer alternative to the harsh toxins currently used causing hoof health issues.
Product developer Liana Wynne said being in the show horse industry as a judge and competitor for many years, she new there was a need for a new product in the market.
“So I began researching how to create a product that was permeable and breathable to the hoof, human and animal safe still enabling the high shine, fast drying and durability required for its purposes,” Liana said.
“I was approached by a leading equestrian competitor at an event who knew that I invented products.
“He said I should create a formula that was safe for the horse’s hooves whilst still providing the high gloss appearance, fast drying and durability.”
The formula also had to have the required
properties of a polish to cover a white hoof.
“I began trialling human peel off face masks 12 months ago as I believed that if you can use it on your face, you could use it on the horse’s hooves,” she said.
“The principle of it being high shine and able to be peeled off was where the concept began.
“I employed an industrial chemist to assist with the formulation but unfortunately, we were unable to secure a product durable enough to handle the exposure to water, sand and grasses required for any length of time when showing animals.
“The same principle was applied to a waterproof mascara formulation with the same
unfortunate results.
“With the assistance of a cosmetic formulator and after trialling numerous products, we created exactly what I was seeking.
“After 12 months of applying dozens of products and materials to my own horse’s hooves for scrutinising, this final formula is outstanding in all the areas sought; a permeable and breathable product being high gloss, fast drying and durable whilst still covering both black and white hooves.
“Someone asked me was it worth all the effort?
“My response was ‘absolutely’especially now we have perfected it. (It is Australian Made and currently Patent Pending).”
A BLACK hoof polish that is ‘human safe’, permeable/breathable, allowing the hoof to breathe and is naturally green! HOOF SAFE
Freshly applied black
Hoof Safe Shine single coat
After riding in mud, long grass
water for
hours
After mud is washed off
horse shampooed
The Horse Report FEI veterinarian courses hosted by EA in Sydney
By EQUESTRIAN AUSTRALIA
FEI veterinary courses hosted by Equestrian Australia were held in Sydney from 5 - 9 March, at Darling Harbour in the heart of Sydney's CBD.
The purpose of the courses was to provide instruction to new FEI veterinarians as well as maintaining the accreditation of current official FEI veterinarians in general and Endurance disciplines as well as our testing vets. The courses were generously sponsored by Ceva Equine, Interpath, Radincon and Randlab and it was great to have representatives from many of the sponsors attend over the five days as well as the Wednesday and Thursday dinners hosted by Randlab.
Attended by 32 equine veterinarians from all over Australia, the courses were held over five days and were a mix of valuable discussion sessions, case-based scenarios, traditional lectures and hands-on interaction with the new FEI testing kits. Topics covered over the five days included an introduction to the veterinary education and accreditation process, examina-
tion on arrival and passport control, horse inspections, online veterinary reports, biosecurity and disease risk, preparation for emergency treatment at events and a comprehensive summary of the tasks and duties of a veterinary delegate at an international event.
The General Veterinarian Course held on Wednesday and Thursday was presented by Dr Kirsten Neil, FEI National Head
Veterinarian for Australia and one of only two FEI Level 4 vets in Australia.
The Testing Veterinarian Course held on Friday was presented by Dr Cate Plummer, an extremely experienced vet and the previous National Medication Control Officer.
The Endurance Veterinarian Course held Friday, Saturday and Sunday was presented by
Dr Anne Barnes, who has had extensive Endurance experience, both here and overseas, as a FEI Endurance Veterinarian and Endurance Veterinary Treatment Official.
Well organised and very informative with access to the sights and sounds of Sydney’s waterfront, the 2025 FEI veterinary courses were very well received by all who attended.
The Horse Report Spotlight on multi-discipline EA clubs
By EQUESTRIAN AUSTRALIA
JIMBOOMBA EQUINE CARRIAGE CLUB
(JECC) is affiliated with Equestrian Australia and now located in Crestmead in Queensland and is primarily a club for drivers of all ages and abilities with horses and ponies of all sizes and breeds.
The club focuses on having fun, social driving, education, long reining, fun competitions, driven dressage, cones, show driving and obstacle driving whilst the priority is the welfare of the horse or pony.
After the devastating floods of February 2022, which destroyed the Jimboomba grounds, JECC moved to Park Ridge Pony Club facilities located at Crestmead.
After a 30-year lease at the Jimboomba grounds, a yearly hire agreement was negotiated with Park Ridge Pony Club and this has now become the club’s permanent home. Due to decreasing pony club memberships and increased costs among several other clubs who also used the pony club grounds an agreement was entered into to merge JECC, Park Ridge Pony Club and the Working Equitation Group into a multi-disciplined group that encompasses a wider range of equestrian activities.
January 2025 saw the transition come to fruition and the formation of a new ‘super equestrian group’that will rebrand with a new name (yet to be decided).
The new committee has a dedicated and capable team whose collective goal is to build a club that offers a variety of equestrian disciplines.
The advantages of the Park Ridge Pony Club merging with the (EA) Equestrian Australia groups by affiliation has brought about an increase in membership numbers for all three groups.
The benefit of increased membership has also offered the new group the opportunity for advice and forward planning assistance by the Logan City Council for development of the grounds to upgrade the lighting (approx $100k) and re-build the cross-country course ($130k).
The cross-country funds have already been processed and the portable obstacles ordered.
The upgrade to the cross-country course is expected to further increase the interest in membership and opportunities to host more competitions.
The future for Driving this year will be mainly social and it is hoped to attract some more energetic people to the club in the future that can assist to organise and run some club and EAlevel competitions.
One of the only EALevel 2 Driving coaches in Queensland is a member and assists at club days.
SOUTH BURNETT EQUESTRIAN GROUP (SBEG) in Queensland is an example of a small group of regional horsey people who value three pillars, horse welfare, safety and skills development, over everything else. As a non-discipline specific group, SBEG over the years has offered a variety of EA and non-EAhorse activities including Dressage, Jumping, Driving, Show Horse,
ground skill clinics, stock horse events, western dressage, competitive trail riding and pleasure riding.
The activities offered are directed by the interests of the membership at the time. For the past few years SBEG has hosted two major activities.
The first is Geriatric Dressage, Dressage for riders 50 years and over, and/or horses 18 years and over.
These events provide for coaching and protocol events with participation and support of high-level Dressage judges, and competitions at a number of south east Queensland venues, including (QSEC) in Caboolture. While activities are based on complying with the EArules, there are flexible club rules that encourage everyone to enjoy their horses. Examples of the flexible approach are the type of gear and tack members can use, as long as everything is safe and inline with horse welfare principles, or allowing the caller to repeat as often as necessary, and also add comments to help the rider stay calm and on course.
SBEG values safety and horse welfare as their top priorities. The club’s events always have a Horse Welfare Officer and a Safety Officer on site to team up with the appointed coaches and judges to keep things on track.
The judges at the club’s events focus on helping in any way they feel is appropriate with emphasis on building the horse-rider connection.
Extra percentage points are added to the final score based on riders and horse ages1% is added for being over 60, 2% for being over 70 and 3% for being over 80. Horses get another 1% for being over 18, 2% for
being over 25 and 3% for being over 30. And yes, one rider has claimed the 6% advantage on offer.
The second activity embraced by SBEG over the past few years is Driving. Many older riders or people with disabilities can continue their love of horse activities when the option of Driving is available.
SBEG offers clinics, both grass-roots and higher-level competition days, as well as ‘come and try’days where very educated horses are available to assist with providing learning opportunities for participants.
SBEG, in conjunction with Driving Queensland, also offers ‘Driving Road Show’ days at other EA-affiliated Club venues.
SBEG also works with RDAs and Equine Pathways Australia to support activities and clinics for drivers and riders with disabilities around south-east Queensland, providing coaches and horses.
Being a multi-discipline club offers many advantages:
- The club can have a number of sub-committees for different disciplines, and can remain as integrated or independent as the club’s constitution allows.
- Volunteers can be shared, eg: an Eventing rider may be a backstepper on a carriage.
- Club expenses become better value for money as more members are contributing to costs, e.g. insurance, affiliation, venue costs, etc.
- For regional and rural areas, the multi-discipline club structure means fewer date clashes.
If you are involved with a regional or rural EA-affiliated club, consider the advantages of your club becoming a multi-discipline EAaffiliated club.
Debbie King driving Happy Life at the JECC April 2024 Participant & Competitor Driving Competition with Linda Turner (Backstepper).
Patricia Nolan and Court Jester, at the Geriatric Dressage at QSEC. Trish is 62-yrs-old and Jester is 28-yrs-old.
Hilary Stubbs and Glenormiston Rough Diamond, competing at an SBEG event.
The Horse Report
Flexi-Fibre®
Flexi-Fibre
Fibre provides root structure, similar to grass roots in turf, to existing or new sand-based riding surfaces. Fibre improves the surface stability, therefore the horse will work ‘on top’ of the surface rather than ‘through’ it.
Our Flexi Fibre is a mixture of polypropylene, polyester and nylon Fibres which are the base material to all of our surfaces worldwide and similar to all other top surface suppliers. We
Australian conditions and manufacture here in Australia, enabling us to produce at very competitive rates.
• Improves preformance
• Improves stability of new or existing sand surfaces
• Enhances drainage
• Long lasting
Trainers
The Horse Report Lunging a training method for horses
What is lunging and when it is beneficial?
Lunging is a horse training technique that involves a horse moving around a handler in a circle on a long lead rein, or lunge line.
What is the purpose of Lunging
Introducing young horses to voice commands
Build trust and respect between the horse and trainer
Improve ground manners
Used to introduce young horses to saddle, bridle & mouthing
Warm up a ridden horse and let him get the sparkles out
Build strength and balance in ridden horses
Rehabilitate horses after injury or illness
How to lunge a horse
Stand in the middle of a circle, facing your horse.
Imagine a triangle with you at one point, your horse at the base, and the lunge line and whip forming the other two sides
Move sideways, slightly behind your horse but keep the tension on the lead so as the horse can’t kick you
Use your whip and voice commands to direct the horse to move forward. Lunging can be used to teach smooth transitions, to move the horse in and out on small or large circles and is a great way to improve strength and engagement. Trot poles and small jumps can also be introduced into the training sessions to improve stride length, engagement and balance.
Remember to give your horse walk breaks, work him evenly in both directions and reward him for his efforts
You should always remember to be safe when lunging, use a rope that will not give you rope burns if horse get a fright and pulls the rope through your hands, wear a helmet and gloves and be aware of your surroundings and stay out of kicking range.
What equipment do you need for Lunging?
Snaffle bridle with reins removed
Roller and a pad underneath – or if you’re lunging a young horse, using a saddle can help them get used to tack.
Side reins ( optional)
Apadded lunge line
Protective boots or bandages (optional)
Hat
Gloves
Sturdy boots
The Horse Report
Soft hands and working together in Soft Feel
By TANJA KRAUS
When we talk about 'Soft Feel' we often think it is the picture right - soft hands. If only it were that simple.
Soft Feel is that and so much more.
We need to understand that even open hands can pull, or bump, and especially can be unclear, when we don't have clarity around what we are trying to achieve, and how we are trying to communicate that to the horse.
Often in a lesson a student will understand what they are trying to 'get' the horse to do but not how they are going to communicate that or they have an understanding of how they would like to communicate to the horse, but not a clear picture on what it is they are actually asking for. Before we even get to the physical aspect of Soft Feel, we must understand the mental aspectknowing what we want (shoulder in for example) and then knowing how it is we are going to communicate that to the horse.
If you reflect on how you have been working with your horse lately, are there some aspects where you feel you could have had more clarity around what or how ?
And do you think perhaps this resulted in unclear communication ?
Over the coming week, take pause in your training to reflect on being clear on what you are asking for, and how you are asking for it.
This will help you and your horse both work together in Soft Feel.
The Horse Report
Toowoomba to host Olympic Games Equestrians
The Toowoomba Showgrounds have been announced as Equestrian and Para-Equestrian venue for the 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games.
Equestrian Queensland (EQ) welcomed the announcement by Queensland Premier David Crisafulli and Deputy Premier and Minister for Infrastructure, Jarrod Bleijie, that a worldclass equestrian centre will be established at the Toowoomba Showgrounds, serving as the official venue for equestrian and para-equestrian events at the Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games.
This landmark decision aligns with EQ’s strategic vision to create a lasting legacy for equestrian sport in Queensland and Australia.
“The Toowoomba Equestrian Centre at the Toowoomba Showgrounds represents a transformative opportunity to address Queensland’s significant gaps in equestrian facilities,” EQ Chair, Brett Cantle said.
“It will provide a world-class, environmentally sustainable venue for national and international competitions and set a new benchmark for accessibility, particularly for athletes with disabilities, fostering participation and equity across all levels of the sport.”
EQ Vice Chair, Ms Emily Coggan expressed appreciation for the collaborative efforts behind this initiative.
“We extend our gratitude to the Royal Agricultural Society of Queensland, Toowoomba Regional Council and the Toowoomba Surat Basin Enterprise for their
support and commitment to planning the Toowoomba Equestrian Centre,” she said.
“With its rich equestrian heritage and strong community backing, Toowoomba will deliver an outstanding experience for athletes, horses, and spectators alike.”
EQ CEO, Briston Toft said the announcement was a milestone for equestrian sport in Queensland and Australia.
“The development of the Toowoomba Equestrian Centre has been a priority for our community,” he said.
“This announcement validates years of dedication and planning.
“Hosting equestrian and para-equestrian events at the 2032 Games will not only showcase our world-class talent but also leave a legacy of participation, inclusion, and growth for generations to come.”
“The development of the Toowoomba Equestrian Centre will:
- Address immediate facility and surface
needs, supporting both grassroots and elite equestrian activities.
- Enable the delivery of large-scale events, including national championships and international competitions.
- Serve as a training and qualification venue for Olympic and Paralympic athletes leading up to the 2032 Games.
- Increase participation across all levels of the sport, providing opportunities for coaches, officials, and volunteers.
- Generate economic benefits for RASQ and the Toowoomba/Darling Downs region.
- Elevate the standard of equestrian facilities in Queensland, ensuring long-term sustainability and growth in the sport.
“This is more than just a sporting event—it’s an investment in the future of equestrian sport in Queensland,” Mr Toft said.
“We look forward to working closely with our partners to ensure the Toowoomba Equestrian Centre provides a lasting legacy.”
RIDING PONY of the YEAR
RIDING PONY PAGEANT
The Horse Report
NNSW SHOW HORSE ASSOCIATION
The NNSW Show Horse Association will be holding quite a few events for their members in 2025.
The annual Autumn Hack Show will this year be be held at Maclean Showgrounds on May 11 and this year will include Off The Track and Riding Pony Newcommer qualifier classes.
The winter show will be held at Murwillumbah Showgrounds on Sunday July 13
The annual Grand National Qualifer event the Northern NSW Show Horse champs will be held at Casino date yet to be confirmed. and The NNSW Allbreeds Show will be held on 28th September at Alstonville.
Programs and entry information will be posted on the Northern NSW Show Horse Association Facebook page. For further information Email: nnswshowhorse@gmail.com
MURWILLUMBAH PONY CLUB CAMP
The Murwillumbah Pony Club will be holding a two day camp on 10-11 July 2025 followed by Murwillumbah Gymkhana on 12 July. Instruction will be provided in show jumping, sporting, showriding, dressage, mounted games, theory, Horsemanship, and scary obstacles and lots more.
The program offers something for riders of all ages and interests from the lead line under eight riders up to associates rider 17 yrs and under 26 yrs, plus a special section for adult riders of any age.
Disciplines will include dressage, flat riding, pleasure and bareback showjumping, grid work games, sporting events and much more.
The club operates out of the Murwillumbah Showgrounds and offers great facilities, stables, camping, canteen, new dressage arenas, jumping and sporting equipment, qualified instructors and friendly helpful members.
New members are welcome to join the club and join in the fun but riders from any club are welcome to come along. Nominations are essential to attend the camp. For further information contact Paula on 0413 733 294 or email cobakibob@bigpond.com
HOLIDAY
CAMP . They offergreat facilities, stables, camping, canteen, new dressage arenas, jumping and sporting equipment, qualified instructors, friendly helpful members. Murwillumbah Showgrounds, Queensland Rd, Murwillumbah
The Horse Report
The Horse Report
“BYE BYE FLY”
QUEENSLAND ITCH, SWEET ITCH, SUMMER ECZEMA and EQUINE ALLERGIC DERMATITIS are names for distressing skin conditions which affects horses in spring and summer months throughout Australia and around the world.
The usual cause is a hypersensitivity to the bites of flies (in particular sand flies or midges).
While the bite of the flies are an irritation, some horses develop sensitivity to the bite and will rub themselves so much that they cause injury to their skin.
Research shows the cause is an allergic reaction to the chemicals in the saliva of the midges (as with humans).
Not only that, but once or twice a day, stable lies come to the horse, feed vigorously for a minute or two, and then return to the shade to digest their food. These bites can cause intense irritation in some horses. The bites appear as small raised lumps with a central scab.
The effects on the horses can be dramatic. They suffer intense pruritus (itchiness) on the mane, tail, face, ears and back, resulting in biting, rubbing, hair loss, self-trauma and a change of temperament. They become miserable and irritable.
KURITCH has been specially formulated to help assist this problem effectively, in a number of ways:
Firstly, it repels the biting insects using the combination of the natural repellent “Citronella Oil” and a highly effective repellent “DEET”. Secondly, it soothes the irritated areas thus relieving the horse from biting and rubbing, which in turn allows the normal healing process to begin.
Also rugging, hooding or stabling your horses between the hours of 4pm – 7am during spring and summer will limit the contact of the flies.
Should your horse already be suffering from the effects of allergic skin dermatitis, ensure you use QUIT ITCH to treat and relieve the effects of insect bites.
Since the 1970’s, QUIT ITCH has been an essential weapon in the fight against skin disorders in horses.
It achieves this by the inclusion of the natural antiseptic “Eucalyptus oil” and Camphor oil” which naturally relieves itchy skin.
These significant benefits are also enhanced by the “Rain Resistant” and “Low irritant” formula. As it doesn’t contain alcohol (prevalent in most fly sprays) it won’t “sting” the horse. It can also be applied to surface wounds, minor cuts and skin abrasions to help prevent irritation and possible infection by nuisance insects.
Registered by the APVMA in Australia for over 40 years, extensive field experience has proven KURITCH to be a most effective solution for both preventing and healing distressing skin conditions caused by biting insects.
As well as KURITCH as a repellent, environmental management will also assist in protecting your horse.
Midges breed near stagnant water. As they don’t fly more than a few hundred metres from their breeding area, housing or paddocking your horses more than 500 metres from those areas will reduce their exposure to the flies.
The Horse Report
Why should you start a career in animal massage?
Make money working with animals! There is nothing more satisfying than knowing that you helped an animal by reducing their pain and making their life a little easier.
Become certified without accumulating large student loan debt. This affordable program will allow you pay off your education and start making money within a year!
Dr. Angel created her first animal bodywork in 2009 but when she put them online in 2015, her program was the only one that provided a certification through a fully online format. Some people didn't think it was possible to learn these techniques online at the time, but she proved them wrong through thousands of successful practitioners all over the world.
Dr. Angel developed many of the techniques. The techniques such as Animal Neuro-myofascial Release Technique (ANMR), equine and canine kinesiology taping, the protocols for animal cold laser therapy and the steps for animal craniosacral therapy were developed by Dr. Angel.
Starting a new business isn't easy. These online courses have been available since 2015 and we are still going strong with a full staff including teaching assistants, a program administrator and course collaborators.
Make your own schedule. As your own boss, you can choose how many hours you will work and will have control over your income. courses have been reviewed and approved through the National Certification Board of Therapeutic Massage, the International Association of Animal Massage and Bodywork, the International Veterinary Chiropractic Association, the International Association of Holistic Animal Practitioners and other organizations. Our practitioners are eligible to purchase liability insurance when they complete the first part of the program.
Unleash your potential as an animal bodyworker now!
Enroll today and become one step closer to your dream! For further information visit www.holisticanimalstudies.net
COURSES FOR HORSE OWNERS!
* Equine Massage Courses for Horse Owners
* Equine Nutrition Courses for Horse Owners
* Equine Aromatherapy Courses for Horse Owners
* Equine Acupressure Courses for Horse Owners wwwbitly/courses-ffor-oowners - wwwholisticanimalstudiesnet/event-l
NSW DPI cattle tick record of movement https://app-cattletick.bfs.dpi.nsw.gov.au
NSW legislation www.legislation.nsw.gov.au
QLD cattle tick zones & accredited certifiers for cattle tick https://www.business.qld.gov.au/
We recommend speaking with one of our authorised officers on 0429 185 136 or email cattletick@dpi.nsw.gov.ua prior to bringing animals into NSW.
Department of Regional NSW
The Horse Report
Brampton Warlock
Price: $18,000.
12.1 hh
Reg: SHC | EA
Bay Sabino Gelding
Brampton Warlock is a top-quality Show Hunter Pony with a stellar show record and a very bright future. This gelding boasts three expressive paces and commands attention with his presence and quality. He’s is a true little gentleman, Handled by children and ridden by a 13-year-old and an 8-yearold, he is well-mannered and seasoned in the show ring. With numerous wins, including Runner-Up Champion Medium Hunter Pony at the recent NSWEAHOTY, Max is ready to excel further. Qualified for the 2025 Sydney Royal & SHC Grand nationals 2025 in Childs & Open and shows limitless potential.
This forward-moving pony is best suited for confident riders looking to compete at a high level showing, Inter school & pony dressage. Available for viewing at Sydney Royal 2025. Vet check welcome.
Contact: Jane Ph: 0409 325 259
Hanley Park Cutie Patootie
Price: $ POA
13.3 7/8 hh
Reg: SHC & EA
Grey Gelding
Sire: Imperial Placido
Dam: Amaranda Catalina
Champion Childs SHC 2023 Champion Childs EA2023
Champion Childs Northern NSWHack Championships 2023 Grand National Top 10 Childs Large Show Hunter Pony 2023 1st Show Hunter Gelding EKKA2024
Many Champions, Reserves & Supremes at Ag shows Placed at every Royal he’s been entered in.
The time has come for Karl to find a new family to love him like we do. He will make a perfect interschool pony. He loves to jump and is very successful in the show ring. Loves a trail ride. Ridden bareback & loves a beach trip.
This is a very sad sale for Rubee but due to having a Galloway now and schooling commitment’s it’s time for another family to enjoy him. He’s easy to clip, shoe and float.
Current x-rays available Vet check welcome
Lots of photos and videos available on request. Only genuine enquiries as this is a hard sale for us.
Contact: Amber Ph 0416 172 205
Burnewang Diamonds and Roses
Price: $ 3,500.
Approx 13.0 hh
Reg: Riding Pony
Black/Brown
Mare
YOB: 2020
Sire: Janlyn Spirit of Holly
Dam: Burnewang Satin Rose
Rose is a sweet, pretty, light across the ground mare, ready to be broken in. Successfully foal shown. Comes from a family of very well performed ponies. Video available. For sale by breeder. In paddock condition.
Heike is 3/4th Andalusian and 1/4th Warmblood, she has the most quiet nature and has been a pleasure to start under saddle. Heike has 3 great paces that will see her shine in the dressage ring her canter is so uphill it’s just beautiful ride!
Sadly for sale on behalf of her owner, she has been broken in spelled and now back in work, Heike is green broken so best suited to a confident teen or adult or someone who can further her training, she is not silly but just a baby! Good to do feet, teeth, ties up etc. Price negotiable.
The Horse Report
Rosegate Serenade
presents a rare opportunity to acquire a proven, quality and sound show hunter. Now proving to be a Competitive Small Hunter Galloway ‘Poppy’is entered for Melbourne Royal and has qualified for EANationals in the open and child’s events. Poppy has been ridden and handled by capable young children since being broken in. She is an extravagant and forward moving making her a pleasure to ride. Suitable for a Capable Child. Poppy is easy to clip, shoe etc. With a long list of accolades to her name it’s time for Poppy to find a new home to continue her success as her child owner moves on to a hack.
Contact: Claire Ph: 0409 671 446
Bon Garcon
Price: $ POA.
16.2 hh
Reg: Thoroughbred
Brown Gelding
YOB: 2015
Sire: Bachelor of Duke
Dam: Fille du Jour
Bon Garcon (Bax), stunning 16.2hh, 9yo gelding
* Multi Champion Show Horse
* Successful Level 4 (Medium) Dressage Horse
* Successful Eventer and Showjumper
The most safe, sensible & kind natured horse, Bax does it all, at the highest of levels.
Abeautifully schooled, exceptional Rider class and Childs' mount that requires little work down.
Perfect to hack out, lead others off, beach, roads, float, truck. Adelight in every way.
Entered for Grand Nationals (Childs, Rider and Large Hack) and Sydney Royal. For further details, please contact Julie.
Contact: Julie Wylie-Parkinson
Ph 64 27 3787518
Ollie "Calibre
Price: $6,000. Price Updated! 16.3 ½ hh
Reg: SHC
Liver Chestnut Gelding
Sire: Tale of the Cat
Dam: Shalimar Lara
It is with great sadness that I offer Ollie for sale through no fault of his own.
Ollie is a liver chestnut, 14yr old thoroughbred gelding, officially measured at 16.3 ½ hh and is registered with the SHC and has an OTTB passport. Perfect to float, clip, shoe and show prep. He is well behaved off property and loves the show environment.
He has had a successful season so far, winning at most outings. Some of his past placings include Runner Up Large Show Hack at the 2024 SHCWAClassic qualifying him for the SHC Grand Nationals. He recently competed at his first Perth Royal Show 2024 winning Novice Hack over 16.2hh and the Open Hack over 16.2hh.
Due to his size, he would excel with a confident rider and handler. He will be at the SHC Horse of the Year on the 12th of October should anyone wish to view him out. Please only serious inquiries for Ollie and this is a very hard decision he will only go to the best of homes. He is located in Upper Swan.
Contact: Jess Knight Ph: 0458 387 287
The Horse Report
hh
Reg: Shetland -APSB EAWAShow Horse Council of Australia
Some of Tommy’s achievements APSB State Show - Hi Point Ridden Shetland Gosnells Summer Showoffs - Supreme Led Shetland, Champion Ridden Shetland, Supreme Ridden All Breeds
SHC Classic (Sydney Grand National Qualifier) Champion Child's Shetland
SHC Western Stars ( Grand National Qualifier) Champion Child's Shetland
WINNER Gosnells Masters Childs Shetland WON the Shetland Pony Race at Ascot Racecourse WON the Shetland Pony race at Toodyay Racecourse Won the EAWAHOTYShetland Pony Steeplechase Had been out show jumping and won working Hunters Tommy Turtle will only go to the best of homes. Too many wins to list.
Contact: Tanya Croker Ph: 0409 121 018
Gracefield White Lace N Promises
Price: $15,000.
12.1 3/8 hh
Reg: Welsh B
Grey Mare
Sire: Imperial Apollo
Dam: Lavuka Vanity Fair
Small Open Pony
Beautiful Lacey is looking for her next partner. She is the ultimate pony for the child wanting to do it all!
With the most Devine little face and the kindness of temperaments she is always in the top 5 at EA& SHC shows! Lacey has been to shows, pony club, jump days and shows that she is a brave and keen jumper. Lacey also enjoys trails alone or with company. Lacey is solely ridden and handled by children.
Lacey would excel with a child that is wanting to do a it all! She is a joy to own, show and keep. She requires no work down or ear plugs, she is a mild windsucker, but does not affect her at all. She would be best suited for a confident rider due to her age.
Only for sale as my daughter’s legs won’t stop growing and wished Lacey’s grew longer.
Will only be sold to the best of homes.
Contact: Lucy Monteleone Ph: 0407 589 553
Merivale Park Toy Carousel
Greenwood Ballerina
Price: $3,500.
13.1 hh
Reg: Welsh x Part Arabian x Riding Pony Bay
Mare
YOB: 2018
Sire: Allengreen Showcase
Dam: Greenwood Regency Royal Rascal
Molly is to no fault of her own looking for her next forever family this beautiful mare is 6 and 13.1hh she is easy to float, farrier, groom, not girthy no nasty’s and not marey Molly has started her dressage career training prelim/novice and competing prelim out at competitions achieving scores in the 60’s.
Molly has been to working eq training days and to siec and never puts a foot wrong We believe Molly would excel best in the dressage/ show ring as a new comer and an excellent pony club mount as she is great with obstacles and fun games She was broken in by her 12 yr old rider who has unfortunately outgrown her.
She’s not your typical five year old she is such an incredible child’s pony.
