Equi-Ads July 2012

WINJO BATES

July 2012 The UK’s No.1 Equine Health, Management and Training Magazine

How to compete on a shoestring budget

Essential vitamins & minerals for your horse

Suspensory ligaments - Damage and treatments

Grooming guide The best products on the market

FREE

Equi-Adsa showing lesson with

champion showing rider and producer

July 2012 www.equiads.net 1

Feeding 2, 7 - 20

Giveaway 2

Letters 2

Tack & Turnout 2, 7, 32 - 35, 44, 45

Grooming 7, 32 - 35

Vitamins & Minerals 8 - 12

Making Hay 12 - 16

Health Care 20 - 33, 48

Colic 22

Worming 23 - 30

Physiotherapy 24

Suspensory Ligaments 26

Horse Behaviour 30

Training 36, 47

Schooling 36

Field & Stable 36 - 37, 48

Insurance 37 - 39

Events 38, 47, 48

Competing 38

Property 40

Absorbine Competition 46

Book Review 48

Contents

Copy DeaDline 10th of the preceding month

Available on the 1st of the month. equi-Ads is published monthly by:

equi-ads limitedoffice 1, tay View estate, friarton road, perth ph2 8dg. to advertise, please call

01738 567700 fax: 01738 567776

www.equiads.netplease send editorial to:office 1, tay View estate, friarton road, perth ph2 8dgfax: 01738 567776 email: [email protected]

Encouraging results for standing fracture repair in racehorses

Keep in Touch!

new research has shown that the use of standing sedation to repair lower limb fractures in racehorses produces similar results to surgery performed under a general anaesthetic, but with the advantages of less surgical complexity, time, cost and risk.

Standing fracture repair in the horse is a relatively new surgical procedure with very little follow-up data available. The study Short and long term results following standing fracture repair in 34 horses was conducted by Richard Payne and Polly Compston at Rossdales Equine Hospital and has recently been published in the Equine Veterinary Journal (EVJ)1.

Treatable fractures sustained by racehorses in the UK have traditionally been repaired under general anaesthesia but it is well known that this carries an increased risk of anaesthetic-related death compared with other elective surgical procedures. However, despite the substantial increase in the number and type of surgical procedures performed under standing sedation over the past decade there has previously been very little work undertaken on standing fracture repairs.

The study looked at the case records of 34 Thoroughbred and Arab racehorses that had a lower limb fracture surgically repaired by one surgeon at Rossdales up until June 2011. The injuries included non-displaced fractures of the proximal phalanx, the third metacarpal bone and the third metatarsal bone, all of which are relatively common fracture sites in

racehorses. Hospital records, owner and trainer telephone questionnaires and website research were used to evaluate follow-up. The short and long-term results were similar to those of horses undergoing repair of comparable fracture configurations under general anaesthesia, with 20 of the horses returning to racing within an average of 226 days.

This early research indicates potential for tangible benefits, including avoidance of the inherent risks of general anaesthesia as well as a reduction in surgical complexity and associated costs, leading the way for future research into larger cohorts of horses.

EVJ’s Editor Celia Marr said “The recent fatalities at the Grand National highlight that it is critical that the equine veterinary research community strives to reduce the prevalence of fractures in our racehorses. We also need to continue to seek better ways of treating those horses that do develop fractures and, while not every fracture will be amenable to this approach, this study is an important first step towards treating some of the non-displaced fractures that occur in racehorses without the need for anaesthesia.”

1Short and long term results following standing fracture repair in 34 horses Richard Payne and Polly Compston, Equine Veterinary Journal ISSN 0425-1644 DOI: 10.1111/j.2042-3306.2012.00569.x

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

http://www.facebook.com/pages/Equi-Ads-Ltd/114650251907111

fron

t cov

er im

age

Kind

ly Su

pplie

d by

Jim

crig

hton

. ww

w.ji

mcr

icht

on.c

om

July 2012www.equiads.net2

I would like to share our experience of winning a court case regarding a rearing horse. We purchased a 15’1 Dun mare for a 14 year old daughter and mother to share from a mother and daughter who had owned it from 6 months old. We had her checked, vetted and bought her ‘sold as seen’. The sellers failed to tell us the mare reared even when asked and only admitted it after the purchase when our riding instructor discovered this.

We could not have achieved this result without the professionalism and patience of our team which included, Dervla Nash, solicitor with Bartlett Gooding and Weelen, Robert Welsh, Barrister at Unity Chambers, Jennifer Ham, expert witness and Kathy Emery, riding instructor. It pays to be determined as often a seller will believe you will not be prepared to fight them. I would encourage anyone to take professional advice and stand up for your rights which will prevent possible accidents or fatalities.Michelle Taylor

even the best quality hay may contain levels of dust and spores, which can provoke coughing in horses, as well as Chronic obstructive pulmonary Disease (CopD), amongst other respiratory diseases. Soaking hay to eliminate dust is not only messy and laborious, but also reduces the nutritional content and produces a liquid waste that is classed as an environmental pollutant, eight times worse than human effluent. Steaming hay with the HAYGAIN hay steamer has been scientifically proven to kill harmful spores found in hay and therefore effectively sterilise hay without nutritional loss.

HAYGAIN is currently available in three models: the HG-1000, HG-600 and HG-GO. With all the units steamed hay is ready to feed immediately after steaming cycles of less than 50 minutes depending on model. Complete nutritional value and goodness are maintained with improved palatability and digestibility. For further information please contact Haygain hay steamers on (0333) 200 5233 or visit www.haygain.co.uk

Feed • Giveaway • Letters • Tack & Turnout

Providing a modern, fast, 21st century service without losing the values we have learnt from retailing over the last 50 years.

Have Your Say

Steaming Hay


Feeding • Horsebox • Tack & Turnout

Providing a modern, fast, 21st century service without losing the values we have learnt from retailing over the last 50 years.


equestrianClearance.com is your one-stop shop for all your equestrian needs with great brands at the best prices. With an easy to navigate website and hundreds of fantastic offers you will have no problem shopping for your summer essentials at unbelievable prices. Find all the gear you need with just one click at EquestrianClearance.com and spend the rest of the day out riding in the sun. With a wide range of yard products, gorgeous clothing, gloves and hats, there is plenty of choice to find everything you need without breaking the bank. Stock up for the summer with the large range of grooming products and coat care from Cottage Craft, Supreme Products, Lincoln and many others. Spring clean your stable with their range of yard equipment, including buckets, manure scoops, shavings forks, feed, skips, horse balls and haynets. Need some new summer rugs? EquestrianClearance.com stock a large range of fly sheets from brands such as Masta, Weatherbeeta, Mark Todd

and JHL. There is also a large range of summer sheets and lightweight turnouts for nights out in the field. Available from EquestrianClearance.com is the Masta Striped Fly Mesh rug with Fixed Neck. The fly sheet is made from a soft polyester mesh fly sheet which makes this sheet ideal for keeping horses clean and protected from insects and sun bleach. Featuring straight surcingles, an extended tail flap, double gussets, wither pad, belly wrap and extra long tail, this fly sheet is all you could ask for. Offered in White/ Blue with a printed stripe pattern, this fly sheet is available in sizes 4’6” to 7’3”. Treat you and your horse to some new tack with a full range of leather work, from saddles, bridles and headcollars to bits, stirrups, girths and saddle clothes. Featuring good quality brands such as K*TY, Cottage Craft, Equi-Theme, Mark Todd, Collegiate and many more at exceptional prices. Open 24 hours a day, EquestrianClearance.com always has huge amounts of stock and a speedy shipping service available. Visit www.equestrianclearance.com

Summer Shopping Made Easy With EquestrianClearance.com

CrematoriumHorse & Pony CremationGenuine Individual Cremation.Leyland & Cheshire Pet Crematorium.Tel: 01772 622466

ProPerty abroadBrittany & NormandyCardyke Overseas PropertiesProperties suitable for horses at a fraction of UK prices.Tel: 01775 630 008

SaddlerySoUTh EaSTAndrew Reilly SaddlersSpoods Farm, Tinkers Lane, hadlow Down, East Sussex TN22 4ET. Tel: 01825 830484.

WormingEaSTRegular worm egg counts can save money! 6-8 weekly spring through autumn £5 each. Church Farm FEC [email protected] or 01728685638

FeedingThe Haylage Co.a cost effective alternative to hay. Based South hertfordshire, we deliver to locations nationwide.Telephone: 07836 514 435 or 07831 454 166Email: [email protected] www.poloforage.com

Directory



62 • June 2009 • Equi-Ads

Classified • Directory

CUMBRIA SCHOOL OF SADDLERYIntensive, enjoyable one-week coursesSmall groupsRE-FLOCKING COURSES AVAILABLEEstablished 12 yearsYou never know where it might lead!Ring (01768) 899919email: [email protected] find all the details at:www.saddlerycourses.com

WINTER SPECIALSWALL MATS, PROTECTION & ANTI CAST

FROM £7.49M 2 + VATSTABLE MATS ALL TYPES FROM ONLY £8.33M 2 + VAT

QUATTRO - 01768 864977

Stephen WilliamsEQUINE DENTAL TECHNICIAN

Equine Dental Care At Its BestBEVA Qualified, Fully Insured Member of BAETD

Devon/Cornwall Areas CoveredTel: 07831 359 299

Ron Fields Nutrition

SEE THE DIFERENCE,TRY

REMOUNTTHE PROVEN PRODUCT

FOR HORSES

'You name it, I’ve tried it.Until 7 weeks ago

I discovered Remount –amazing results'Tanya Andrews

Can be obtained frommost stockists and manyveterinary practices orFOR INFORMATION

01432 851001www.ronfieldsnutrition.co.uk

WESTCOUNTRYHAYLAGEProduced Supplied & Delivered

By NICK HILLIERLarge & Small Bales of QualityHaylage, Hay, Straw & Alfalfa.

We also supplyDust Extracted ShavingsPlease Call 07860 298330

NFUMutual insure

Your horse and Your horsebox

Call your local agent Fiona Traquairon 01629 582 025

Visit NFU Mutual Office,The Old Carpenters Shop,The Cliff, Matlock,Derbyshire DE4 5EW

Agent of The National Farmers UnionMutual Insurance Society Limited.

www.equestriancourier.co.uk

Freezemark Ltd. Oxbow Farm, Avon Dassett, Southam,Warks CV47 2AQFax: 01295 690080 e-mail:[email protected]

markWhere Experience Counts

freeze ltd

Unwanted intruders can be anywhere!So get your horse freeze marked to deter theft

and give positive identificationFreezemark Ltd offer standard marks

or you can choose your own mark - e.g. BEN - GEM - 007.Give your horse the protection it deserves.

Details / Bookings telephone 01295 690090or visit our website www.freezemark.biz

Don’t delay - tomorrow may be too late…

FREEZE MARKAND STOP THEFT!

Established 1990 – South Hertfordshire based

Are pleased to launch the 20kg small bale 25/30 bales to the pallet delivered.A cost effective alternative to hay!

POLO [email protected]

The Haylage Co.• Big bale size: 1.25m x 0.90m x 0.90m rectangular • Weight: 220kg • Protein: 9-11% • Moisture Content: 27-30%

• Delivered: 2 bales to the pallet; Off loaded by driver/forklift; Fully wrapped on delivery;Open bales last 10-14 days before spoilage occurs; Prices on application

Telephone 01923 268609 Mobile 07836 514 435Order/Fax 01923 268380 Mobile 07775 736 376Telephone 01923 268609 Mobile 07836 514 435Order/Fax 01923 268380 Mobile 07775 736 376

www.thehaylagecompany.co.uk

The Haylage Co.

CrematoriumHorse & PonyCremationGenuine IndividualCremation.Leyland & CheshirePet Crematorium.Tel: 01772 622466

Horse TransportSouth CentralHoofmoveBrighton, Sussex.Tel: 0845 0620088.Mob: 07958 701651.www.hoofmove.co.uk

South EastChiltern and ThamesHorse TransportDefra Approved. FullyLicenced. Fully Insured.London Immission ZoneCompliant. Fitted with CCTVMonitors for horses safety.24hr Emergency Call Out. Formore information please callTel: 07711 1700 01 or email:[email protected]. www.cthorsetransport.co.uk

Property AbroadBrittany & NormandyCardyke OverseasPropertiesProperties suitable forhorses at a fractionof UK prices.Tel: 01775 630 008

SaddlerySouth EastAndrew ReillySaddlersSpoods Farm, Tinkers Lane,Hadlow Down, East SussexTN22 4ET.Tel: 01825 830484.

WormingEastChurch Farm FaecalEgg CountingThe Spring grass is growingand it is time to consider yourworming strategy. Worm eggcount £5 [email protected] 685638

EQUJun09-E.qxd 21/5/09 12:21 Page 62

WHen Sarah Roger’s 16-year-old pony, Katie, became laminitic and then developed Cushing’s syndrome she was determined to do everything she could to get the mare back on the road to recovery.

Katie had been with the family for 14 years when she was struck down by laminitis.

“In February 2011 we thought we were going to lose her with chronic hormone-induced laminitis when she had re-absorbed her foal,” said Sarah.

“Katie has spent most of her life as a companion to our racehorses, travelling to races with them or keeping those at home company.

“After advice from the nutritionists at TopSpec we started to feed Katie TopSpec AntiLam for nutritional support and she has never looked back.

“We make sure Katie still never sees any grass, but goes out in an acre paddock which has nothing in it, we use it as the winter turn out for the bigger horses so they do a fabulous job of ploughing it so no grass is left.

“She now looks a picture of health and is a very active pony attending all Pony Club events every fortnight.

“We have been so vigilant with her diet and treats, only sugar free polos at Pony Club and herballs as a treat at home but it’s all paid off. My vets are providing medication for the Cushing’s and following advice from the TopSpec nutritionists we are now just adding a few of the TopSpec FibrePlus Cubes to her TopSpec AntiLam to add a bit of condition, without letting her get overweight.

“Katie is now 17 and looks as good as she ever has, we can’t thank TopSpec enough for all their help and advice.”

A now fit Katie.

Have you ever wondered how it is that culicoid midges can swarm around in heavy rain without being hit by raindrops? logically you’d think that they would get washed out of the air quite quickly but they don’t!

The reason for this is that a falling raindrop compresses the air beneath it to create a tiny pressure wave. Now midges are very light so the pressure wave travelling in front of the falling raindrop easily pushes the midge out of the way so the drop misses it.

To clear the air of midges you need a fine aerosol spray but even then they are hard to get rid of. The best way of dealing with them is to alter their external chemistry. You do this by alkalising your horse’s skin using Fine Fettle Fly-Spray. This has the effect of neutralising the acid mechanism of the midges’ bite so that it doesn’t affect

the horse. The result is a cooler happier horse and a lot less midges. Fine Fettle Fly-Spray can be sourced from Fine Fettle Feed on 01600 712496 or by logging onto www.finefettlefeed.com

Katie is Now a Picture of Health

Fine Fettle Fly-Spray


are you all fingers and thumbs when it comes to plaiting your horse? Courtesy of aloeride, the naturally organic aloe vera equine supplement, sponsored rider paradressage rider Bert Sheffield, shows equi-ads readers how to smarten up their plaits with a trend setting style that is sweeping the dressage circuit…

Dressage horses have always had their own fashions – a few years ago, it was the ‘done thing’ to have lots of tiny white-taped plaits, but more recently there has been a move towards the big round Dutch-style or ‘Anky’ plaits as they are known (Named after Anky Van Grunsven, the top dressage rider who fashioned this style). Done well, these can help give the impression of more top-line and look wonderful (if neatly sewn in), but they can also look like scruffy golfballs too! Fortunately, they are quite simple and quick to do and like anything – practice makes perfect!

Tools For The Job:You will need a box or stool to stand on, elastic bands and thread to match your horse, big plastic darning needles, plaiting spray, scissors, comb and a hairclip.

Step By Step:1) First, you need a clean mane in good condition. The plaits are easiest done with a mane, which is about 9 inches long and quite thick, to give the plaits the desired shape. I trim my manes with scissors rather than pull them, to keep the thickness.

2) Divide the mane into 7 sections about 5-6 inches wide. I have a comb that I use as a measure to ensure that plaits are equal.

3) Spray with plaiting spray and plait down each section fairly tight. Fold the spikey ends up and secure with an elastic band.

4) Now for the special bit!- tie a knot in each plait, preferably towards the end.

5) Roll the plait up, pushing the knot into the underside base of the plait. Thread a

needle and knot the ends together. Push this into the base of the plait and through the elastic band.

6) Sew up and down through the plait until it feels secure and holds its shape. Cut the thread under the plait. Done!

And For The Finishing Touch?

For the complete ‘Anky’ look, French-plait the top of the forelock before sewing it into a ball and leave the tail full and flowing: cut off just level with the top of the fetlock joint.

With these turnout tips, your horse will look like an international dressage super star, even if your test marks don’t always reflect this!

www.aloeride.com 01858 464 550

The search is on to find SPILLERS® treasure

Perfect plaits

SpilleRS®, the UK’s favoured horse feed manufacturer, is inviting aspiring pirates to enjoy an ingenious online Treasure Hunt to find and win a whopping 48 bags of SpilleRS® Balancer during four weeks of June and July 2012. Facebook fans will be invited to join the Big Balancer Treasure Hunt towards the end of June. Here they will be asked a question to which the correct answer is hidden somewhere on the SPILLERS® website. Participants are directed from

Facebook to the SPILLERS® website to search for a hidden symbol where they will find the clue to the answers of weekly questions asked on the Big Balancer Treasure Hunt landing page. The glittering prize of 12 bags of SPILLERS® Balancers is up for grabs every week for four weeks, representing the 12 building blocks of SPILLERS® Balancers. This treasure trove of attributes sets SPILLERS® Balancers apart from other similar products on the market, making them

the ultimate feeding option for your horse. Every correct entry will be entered into a free prize draw to win a bag of SPILLERS® Balancer worth up to £35. The Treasure Hunt runs from 18th June until 16th July and anyone can enter. Rachel Austin, Brand Assistant at SPILLERS® said: “You won’t find pieces of eight but the extremely high nutritional specification of our Balancers makes them the equine

equivalent of gold! You can guarantee your horse will be delighted if you are lucky enough to find our hidden treasure.” Don’t miss out on your chance to win one of 48 bags of SPILLERS® Balancers. Simply visit SPILLERS® on Facebook from 18th of June, and follow the easy instructions. Happy treasure hunting!

Feed • Grooming • Tack & Turnout



Feeding • Vitamins

Dr Jo-Anne Murray PhD, PgDip, PgCert, BSc(Hons), BHSII, RNutr, FHEA, Senior lecturer at the Royal (Dick) School of Veterinary Studies, University of Edinburgh, Programme Director for On-line MSc/Diploma/Certificate in Equine Science

Vitamins and minerals are two of the six essential nutrient required by horses. Horses only need relatively small quantities of vitamins and minerals; however, an imbalance of these can be detrimental to your horse’s health.

Minerals

Minerals are inorganic nutrients required in relatively small quantities by the horse. Minerals are classified as either: macro (or major) minerals, and micro (or trace) minerals. Macro minerals are those that are required and typically found in concentrations in the diet measured as grams per kilogram (g/kg), whilst micro minerals are required and measured in milligrams per kilogram (mg/kg).

The essential macro minerals are:• Calcium• Phosphorus• Magnesium• Sodium• Chloride• Potassium• Sulphur

The essential micro minerals are:• Iron• Zinc• Copper, Selenium• Manganese• Iodine• Cobalt

Macro mineral requirements

The mineral requirements of a horse

vary depending on bodyweight, age, physiological condition (e.g. pregnancy and lactation) and activity level (e.g. how much work the horse is doing). For example, mares that are in the late stages of pregnancy or are lactating, and young horses that are growing will have a higher requirement for some specific minerals (e.g. calcium and phosphorus) than other horses do. Most concentrate feeds have consistent mineral contents and can be estimated from nutrient tables; however, minerals in forages can vary significantly due to soil mineral content, plant species, stage of maturity of the forage at harvest and harvest conditions etc. Therefore, for an accurate measurement of minerals in forages, the forage should be sent to a laboratory for mineral analysis.

If minerals are provided at less than the recommended amounts then this can result in a deficiency, whilst excessive amounts of minerals in the diet can result in toxicity. However, whilst the amount of minerals in the diet are important, the ratio of all minerals with each other and other components of the diet needs to be taken into account as this can influence absorption, metabolism and/or excretion. Therefore, excesses or deficiencies of one mineral can alter the requirements of others. For example, the ratio of calcium and phosphorus is important to consider as an imbalance can result in an orthopaedic disorder (especially in young horses). The ratio of calcium to phosphorus should be around 2:1, with twice as much calcium as phosphorus required. This can vary slightly from 1:5 to 3:1 in young horses and 1:1 to 6:1 in mature animals, as long as adequate amounts of phosphorus are provided in the diet. However, a ratio of less than 1:1 or less, where the phosphorus exceeds the calcium can result in interference on the absorption of calcium even if adequate amounts of calcium are supplied in the diet. The calcium and phosphorus concentrations of forages are variable, with legumes (such as alfalfa) containing higher levels of calcium compared to grasses. Good quality forages are typically adequate

Essential Vitamins and Minerals

cont. on p.10


Feeding • Vitamins

in magnesium, potassium and sulphur. However, to meet sodium and chloride requirements, additional salt may be required. This is particularly important in performance horses that will sweat during exercise and therefore may require sodium and chloride plus potassium to replace excess mineral loss via sweat. Cereal grains (such as oats, barley and maize) are typically high in phosphorus and low in calcium. Therefore, it is important to know the mineral content of feedstuffs to ensure that the calcium to phosphorus ratio is appropriate.

Micro mineral requirements

The quantity of micro minerals required for normal growth, development and metabolism are small; however, meeting these requirements is absolutely essential. The micro mineral content of feedstuff is extremely variable and needs to be determined by laboratory analysis. Also, similar to that seen for major minerals, interactions can occur between micro minerals that can affect their absorption and utilisation. For example, high levels of zinc can affect copper utilisation. It can therefore be complicated to formulate a diet using a range of feedstuffs to satisfy all of the horse’s mineral requirements; therefore, supplementing your horse’s diet with a minerals supplement is often the most practical solution. The safety margin for most trace minerals is reasonably wide and therefore allows you to use a mineral supplement alongside the rest of the ration without the risk of exceeding the maximum tolerance levels.

You can provide mineral supplementation by providing a free-choice micro mineral lick. If this is used then no other salt should be added to the diet. The downside to this approach is that it is very difficult to ensure that your horse is getting the minerals it needs; you can’t assume that because

s/he is not eating the supplement that it is not required. The alternative is to use a commercial complete mineral supplement that contains both major minerals and micro minerals and is added to the diet at the recommended rate for your horse. This approach ensures that your horse is consuming the required amount of minerals; however, the supplement should be chosen to compliment the ration that is fed. For example, if a forage-only ration is used then a forage balancer supplement is likely to be the most appropriate choice. If your horse is being fed a commercial mix, which typically contains macro and micro minerals then a different type, or even no, supplement may be required. For example, if you are feeding a commercial mix at the recommended amount for your horse then your horse will likely be receiving the appropriate amount of minerals without further supplementation. However, if you are feeding less or more than this then you may be under or over feeding minerals. Also, if you are feeding additional feedstuffs alongside the concentrate mix (for example oats, barley, sugar beet etc.), it is important to consider the impact of the mineral contribution that these additional feedstuffs make to the overall ration. Vitamins

Vitamins are organic compounds that are required in small amounts by the horse. However, although they are required in small quantities, they are a critical part of your horse’s ration to promote and regulate a number of body functions and if they are lacking in the diet then deficiency diseases may occur.

Vitamins are typically divided into two groups:• Fat soluble vitamins (A,D,E and K)• Water soluble vitamins (C and B-complex)

Licks are a simple and cost effective method of administering important nutrients into the horse’s diet and balancing the deficiencies in forage and grazing. However, there are many different types on the market and not all licks are the same as the manufacturing process can vary.

Horslyx is manufactured by a unique cooking process. The benefit of this means the product is weatherproof, contains no chemical hardeners, and no artificial colours, preservatives or flavourings. By cooking Horslyx, it means that the moisture content is lower than 5%, so customers can be sure they have a more nutrient rich product, which needn’t be consumed at such high amounts. This in turn results in a longer lasting lick that is palatable, easy to digest and kinder on the pocket.

Horslyx is available in four formulations, Original, Garlic, Respiratory and Mobility, in 5kg, 15kg and 80kg tubs. Prices start at £9.95. For more information tel: (01697) 332 592 or visit www.horslyx.com.

cont. from p.9

cont. on p.12

Horslyx Supplements




All vitamins, except A and E are produced in the body. Vitamin A (or its precursor beta-carotene) and vitamin E are present in high concentrations in fresh green forages or newly harvested hay. Therefore, a horse that is grazed for a significant portion of the day will meet its vitamin A and E requirements. However, during the winter when a conserved forage, such as hay is fed, supplementation may be required as the hay will lose its vitamin content during storage. Vitamin D is produced in the skin when your horse is exposed to sunlight. However, your horse does need to be exposed to around four to six hours outdoor light per day (including cloudy days) to meet their vitamin D requirements without dietary supplementation. Therefore, horses that are kept indoors will have higher dietary requirements for vitamin D compared to those kept at grass. Sun-cured forages (such as hay) contain vitamin D. However, if a horse is not exposed to sunlight or is fed a poor quality hay, then a supplement may be required. Commercial vitamin/mineral supplement combinations are available, as well as commercial mixes which contain the necessary vitamins. Feeding these additional supplements even when your horse’s vitamin A and E requirements have been met by pasture does not typically present a problem since, although excess intakes can be toxic, levels ten times higher than required are needed for this to occur.

Specific daily requirements for vitamins K, C and B-complex are not defined since they are usually available in sufficient quantities from a combination of the ration, microbial synthesis in the horses’ gastrointestinal tract and production by the horse’s liver. Vitamins K and B are present in all good quality forages, fresh and dried (depending on length of storage) and are also produced by the microbes in the intestine. Therefore, it is unlikely that your horse will be deficient in these vitamins unless they are on a low forage diet and/or under severe stress. Vitamin C is synthesised in the liver and therefore vitamin C deficiency is rare.

Summary

In summary, vitamins and minerals are an important part of your horse’s diet. Most adult, non-breeding horses that are not in heavy work and that are maintained on good pasture can obtain significant amounts of vitamins and minerals (plus salt added to the ration) from forage alone. However, many conserved forages may be low in vitamins and minerals, depending on soil mineral content, plant species, stage of maturity and conditions at harvest, and length of storage. Therefore, supplementary vitamins and minerals may be required either in the form of a commercial vitamin/mineral supplement or by feeding a commercial mix. However, a supplement should be chosen that compliments your horse’s existing ration and overall nutrient requirements.

An exciting new, scientifically balanced formula from NAF has been launched. In The Pink Senior is especially formulated to meet all the nutritional requirements of your older horse and is designed to give him all the support he needs to say forever young.

Make In The Pink Senior part of your older horse’s daily diet and, by addressing the natural aging process of the body’s systems, it will help keep him in tip top condition both inside and out.

In The Pink Senior will:Help balance the diet and the digestive system, to enable your horse to maximise the value of his feed intake.

Provide pre and pro biotics for optimum support of the gut.

Donate all the vitamins and minerals required by the older horse for all round health.

Supply a unique combination of naturally sourced antioxidant ingredients to flush excess toxins from the system.

Support a ‘youthful spark’ in your horse in response to the selective herbal content of the formula.

Provide nutrients to support joint health.

ElectroTo maximise the performance of your horse it is vital he remains hydrated and

alert. There are three clear steps you need to take in order to maintain your horse’s hydration, these are to rehydrate, recover and recharge.

New Electro has all three covered.ReHydrate: Electro replaces the salt lost in sweat and kick starts the process of replenishing the water levels depleted through sweat, which can be as much as 60 litres a day from a top level performance horse working on a hot humid day.

ReCharge: Electro comes in a simple, convenient, squeezy bottle with a sports top, so it may be drenched directly into the horse’s mouth as and when needed, without any delay.

Recover: This triggers the all important post exercise recovery process at the earliest possible time, helping to restore the electrolyte and water balance and so avoid dehydration, loss of co-ordination and muscular stiffness.

To maximise fitness & performance introduce your horse to Electro as soon as possible.

Peter Charles, International British Showjumper, uses Electro.

For more information please call the NAF Freephone Advice Line: 0800 373106, email [email protected] or log on to www.naf-uk.com

When it comes to supplements, most people think of liquids and powders, but that needn’t be the case, as the Rockies range illustrates perfectly.

The range is made up of hard pressed salt and mineral licks that can be offered to horses in a free access manner. The range is cost effective to feed and can be used for horses that don’t receive the bucket feed, or to supplement a reduced ration. There are a number of different licks available. Below are examples of three very different products that are available from Rockies.

MagnacalmMagnacalm is a 1.8 kg lick, which contains less than 40% salt, along with bioavailable magnesium and cerelose dextrose to ensure intake.

The magnesium in this product helps address possible deficiency, symptoms of which can include nervousness and excitability as well as other stress related symptoms. When supplied in this way, the horse simply helps himself to the magnesium that he feels he needs and at the same time, is receiving salt, which is essential for many body processes. Magnacalm is ideal for all horses, but is perfect for those who don’t receive a bucket feed.

Magnacalm is available as a 1.8 kg lick and has a RRP of £4.99.

5 StarRockies’ 5 Star lick is a mineralised salt lick that also contains trace elements and herbs that have been specifically selected for horses and ponies.

As the lick is hard pressed, it’s durable and can live indoors or outdoors. It can be fed all year round and contains zinc, copper, manganese, selenium, cobalt, iron, iodine and selenium as well as seaweed, rosehip and cod liver oil.

This product is ideal for horses at grass who don’t receive a bucket feed and those who receive reduced rations, as it can help address any reduction in mineral intake. It is supplied in 5 kg blocks and has a RRP of £6.99.

Bug:go!

If you’ve been looking for a way to supplement your horse’s diet with garlic, without the need for a bucket feed, Bug:go! is the perfect solution.

In addition to Cheshire salt, Bug:go! contains 10% pure garlic, a natural fly repellent. As the horse sweats, a garlicky aroma is released through the skin to help repel flies naturally.

Rockies’ Bug:go! is available in 5 kg blocks which have a RRP of £8.99.

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

cont. from p.12

NAF Supplements

Rockies SupplementsFeeding • Vitamins




Blue Chip Supplements

Baileys Supplements

Revolutionary new product – Blue Chip Garliq

Providing essential key vitamins, minerals and nutrients in your horse or pony’s diet is paramount to optimum health and performance. All equines require a nutritionally balanced diet, especially those that are competing, have health issues or are breeding stock.

Most pastures are deficient in certain vitamins and minerals such as selenium or magnesium. Magnesium deficiencies are often found in spring grass which is why some horses can get very excitable on ‘spring grass’, and selenium deficiencies have been linked to conditions such as Azoturia.

The easy solution to combating this problem is to feed a superior quality feed balancer such as one from the Blue Chip range. This will ensure that your horse or pony receives a nutritionally balanced diet that provides essential vitamins, minerals and nutrients. Horses that are turned out twenty four hours a day during the summer months often don’t get any ‘hard feed’ as they

may not be doing much work or don’t need to put on any additional weight. This is where feeding a low calorie, low sugar, low starch feed balancer such as Blue Chip Lami-light, can really benefit them. Lami-light will ensure your horse or pony gets all the daily required essential vitamins, minerals and nutrients without encouraging any weight gain. As all of the Blue Chip balancers are fed in such small quantities they can be fed on their own and even from your hand in the field.

Horses that are in light to medium work thrive when fed Blue Chip Original. As well as receiving everyday essential vitamins, minerals and nutrients, the EU approved probiotic will ensure a healthy digestive system and encourage enviable condition. The generous levels of balanced Omega 3 and 6 oils in Blue Chip Original will give your horse or pony a gleaming, glossy coat.

Medium to hard working horses and ponies, or those that are elderly, require additional, essential vitamins and

minerals and nutritional support. This is where feeding a superior quality high performance feed balancer such as Blue Chip Pro can really help. Blue Chip Pro will keep the elderly horse or pony thriving in later life and the equine athlete in peak condition, performing to the best of their abilities. Combining enhanced levels of essential vitamins, minerals and nutrients along with an EU approved probiotic and a prebiotic to help maintain a healthy digestive system.

All the balancers in the Blue Chip range contain a comprehensive hoof and respiratory package eliminating the need for additional supplements and are whole-cereal and molasses free, making them very low in sugar and starch. Blue Chip balancers also contain the revolutionary ingredients, Nucleotides. Nucleotides are the building blocks of DNA and RNA and are naturally found in the horse’s diet, however at low levels. All horses and ponies can benefit from the inclusion of Nucleotides in their diet, as it aids

the absorption of vitamins, minerals and nutrients. Nucleotides are of great benefit to the performance horse, improving recovery rates and aiding repair of any strains or injuries.

Adding a superior quality feed balancer like one from the Blue Chip range to your horse or pony’s diet will not only ensure that they are recieving daily, essential vitamins, minerals and nutrients, but will give you complete peace of mind that they are getting a nutritionally balanced diet without having to feed lots of different supplements and large quantities of hard feed that horses are not evolved to eat and may cause upset to the equine digestive system.

Feeding less than the recommended quantity of a low energy mix or cube will deprive your overweight horse of essential nutrients needed for health and well-being whilst still providing some calories that he doesn’t need. The fact that he is dull and lack lustre may not be so much to do with lack of energy in his diet but with a lack of vitamins and minerals. An ideal solution here is to choose a feed balancer, like Baileys Lo-Cal.

This provides a very concentrated source of nutrients without extra calories and enables you to feed a balanced diet to ensure your horse is receiving all the nutrients for overall

health and body maintenance. With correct work you should be able to encourage weight loss, whilst the protein content of the balancer will help promote muscle tone. So on a fully balanced diet, and losing some weight, your previously dull good doer should develop a brighter outlook on life!

Be prepared to change what you are feeding throughout the year though, to suit the changing weather conditions, routine and work load. For the exceptionally good doer, Lo-Cal balancer may be an excellent year round solution whilst for others, once the weight is lost, you may find that as work load increases and the

nutrient content of the grass drops off in late summer, you need to reintroduce some calories by choosing a low or medium energy mix or cube. Remember that keeping things balanced is the key to optimising performance – if you don’t need the full amount of compound feed, top the ration up with Lo-Cal to ensure your horse is

getting all his vitamins and minerals.

For advice and information contact Baileys Horse Feeds on 01371 850247 (option 2) or visit www.baileyshorsefeeds.co.uk and click on “Lo-Cal Q & As”.

Blue Chip are always at the forefront of innovation and their latest product is no different. Garlic is fed to most horses and ponies for its well known medicinal properties, including being a natural fly repellent, powerful anti-oxidant and respiratory supplement; however it is widely only available as a powder or granule.

Blue Chip Garliq is a liquid form of this powerful natural supplement, meaning that it is absorbed into the bloodstream faster and more efficiently. It also means less mess and less waste when feeding and

horses love it. Blue Chip Garliq is made from a superior form of concentrated, pure, organic Spanish garlic.

Sold in a convenient easy to use twin-neck 1 litre bottle, its concentrated formula, will last over 2 months. RRP £15.99

Feeding




Hickstead Horse Feed Leisure Balancer

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

Hickstead Horse Feeds Leisure Balancer is a concentrated feed balancer, providing essential vitamins, minerals and protein without the energy or calories of a conventional concentrate. It has been formulated to balance deficiencies in a forage based diet, particularly for those at rest or in light to moderate work. It is also perfect for horses and ponies fed mix or cubes at a lower quantity than

recommended. Due to the low starch content of 8.9% it is ideal for those at risk of laminitis.

Hickstead Leisure Balancer contains Yea Sacc, which has been scientifically proven to maintain and improve fibre digestion and the addition of bioplex minerals and Sel-plex selenium will maximise nutrient availability. Soya provides essential

building blocks to promote quality muscle tone. One bag of Hickstead Leisure balancer will last a 500kg horse for a month and is competitively priced, thereby saving on feed bills.

So..... if you are worried about the nutritional quality of your hay this year, feeding Hickstead Leisure

Balancer will put your mind at rest.

For any information on Hickstead Horse Feeds products, or for nutritional advice of any sort, please feel free to contact us on 0845 0250 444. We really are very friendly.info@hicksteadhorsefeeds.co.ukwww.hicksteadhorsefeeds.co.uk

This brings to mind the classic proverb: “Make hay while the sun shines” that

of course refers to making the most of one’s opportunities whilst one has the chance. This proverb is attributed to John Heywood in 1546 who stated:

Whan the sunne shinth make hay. Whiche is to say.Take time whan time cometh, lest time steale away.

This proverb is considered to be of Tudor origin. The farmers in those days would have had to make hay using a combination of horses and manual labour so, it would have been a long-winded process exposed to the vagaries

of the weather. Nowadays things are very different!

We now have the dubious benefit of weather forecasting over 5 or 10 days, a month or even over a longer range. Thus, in theory, we should be able to carefully plan our hay making. Unfortunately, forecasters can get it wrong (and often do!) so we must look for a window in the weather and go for it with fingers crossed. This underlines the problem of making hay since first and foremost it depends on good weather to dry the grass quickly in order to make hay. The

quality of the grass that you cut does not matter if you do not get good weather. Since the process of making hay depends on drying grass, the temptation is thus to wait until the grass has matured before cutting it. This is because grass becomes drier with age. Young grass may only contain 15% dry material whereas mature grass can contain 25%. Making hay requires that the dry content should increase to 85% minimum so there is a big difference between getting rid of 70% water compared to 60%. The process of drying can be hastened

cont. on p.18

Feeding • Hay




by “conditioning” the grass as it is cut. This means passing it between ribbed rubber rollers which effectively “bruise” the grass stems. The crushed stems lose water much more quickly than when they remain circular and intact. Grass leaves, because of their shape and surface area, dry out much more quickly than the intact stems and thus are easily damaged if the crop requires mechanical handling. Leaf loss represents a significant waste of nutrients and dry material. Conditioning evens out drying rates and speeds up the whole process. The downside to conditioning is, that if it rains, then more nutrients are leached from the crop than if left entire.

There are other ways to speed up the grass drying process. In Ireland, famed for its rain, hay was made into cociní (cockeens, cutyeens or lapcocks) better known in England as haycocks. Once dried the hay was shaken out and made into small stacks about 2.5 metres high and left in the field for a couple of months suitably weighted down before bringing in to the farm. In Trim, County Meath they even hold an annual Hay Festival with various competitions including tossing a sheaf of hay (~3.5kg) and cutting grass with a scythe. One interesting competition is entitled “Roll in the Hay” although since this is held in public it cannot be

too risqué!

Hay was often built around a tripod or a pole with cross sticks to provide some stability. This type of hay making is still practised on the steep slopes of alpine regions where machines cannot go and as a means of speeding the drying process. Wooden frames are also used in the Shetland Islands and some of the eastern European countries such as Romania. It is not unknown to use field fences to hang the grass on as practised in Norway. An alternative to complete field drying is to partially dry the grass in the field, bale it and then bring it inside for barn drying. The latter is achieved by stacking the bales over air tunnels through which air is blown using a powerful fan. Obviously this is expensive but can result in a first class product that sells at premium prices.

What is the most important characteristic of hay? This has to be its hygienic quality which means that the hay must be free from mould and mould spores as well as “dust”. These are all materials that can irritate the respiratory system of the horse. In the case of moulds they can result in serious respiratory disease that can render a horse unusable. Properly dried hay will not support the growth of moulds. It is important that hay is stored in properly ventilated buildings that do not have roof surfaces (uninsulated metal) that “sweat” when there are

rapid shifts in ambient temperature. Furthermore, since hot air rises, it must be able to escape from the building before it can condense on cold surfaces. Always examine the top layer of bales from a stack carefully as typically they can be moulded due to condensation on the exposed bale surface.

It will be apparent from the foregoing that effective drying and storage of hay is critical to its use as a forage for horses. But what about other aspects of making hay? How you do your hay making depends on your ultimate use of the forage. For example if the hay is to be fed to “good doers” and/or animals prone to laminitis then the grass must be cut when it is fully mature (all seed heads fully out) which of course, coincidentally, helps the drying process. Furthermore, the grass should be cut in the morning before the sun is brightly shining. The latter results in the formation of sugars within the plant so that grass cut in the afternoon on a really sunny day (the weather you need for making hay quickly!!) will contain the most sugar. Grass scheduled to be made into hay for the good-doers or laminitis-prone animals should contain grass species that are of low nutritive value when mature which means effectively that they are very fibrous, fairly indigestible and low in sugar. Typical grasses that fit into this category would be Timothy, Cocksfoot, Crested Dogstail, etc.

If the hay is to be of high nutritive value then Perennial Ryegrass would be a major component together with Italian Ryegrass and some Broad Red clover. To make high nutritive value hay from these species would require cutting the grass at ear emergence in the afternoon when sugar levels are at their highest. Since at this stage of growth the content of dry material will be lower than when mature, it is essential to condition the crop and then turn it carefully to maximise the rate of drying. A quickly dried crop will be green in colour showing that there has been minimal oxidation of plant components such as carotene, the precursor of vitamin A. This material will be highly digestible, palatable and of good overall quality. High quality hay making requires modern, sophisticated farm equipment to enable appropriate handling of the grass crop.

In conclusion, to avoid having to soak hay in order to remove soluble sugars and to dampen down mould spores, make sure you cut the grass at the right stage of growth, at the right time of day and at the beginning of a spell of very good weather. To improve the chances of getting such good weather you would do better to hire a witch to cast a spell than rely on the weatherman to predict one...

Fibre is the staple part of every horse and pony’s diet. Although most of this will be from grass and hay, don’t forget that there are plenty of fibre feeds on the market to help boost your horse or pony’s fibre intake, particularly if hay is in short supply or of poor quality.

Hay replacementAs horses and ponies are grazing animals, hay and grass are essential in the diet, as they provide the fibre necessary to generate energy. Over 70% of the horse’s energy requirements at rest are provided by fibre, so if fibre is lacking in the diet, your horse or pony will start to lose weight. Allen & Page Fast Fibre is a must in any feed room when good forage sources are limited.

Fast Fibre can be fed as a complete or partial fibre replacement – with a fibre content of 29.5%, Fast Fibre is also low in starch and soluble sugars, making it an ideal fibre source.

A good forage replacement feed should be high in fibre, low in sugar and low

in starch to replicate the nutritional qualities of forage. There are many benefits to using a hay replacement, not least that a feed such as Fast Fibre is nutritionally balanced and boosted with vitamins and minerals for overall health. It can also be soaked quickly and is easy for the horse to eat and digest.

Look after the golden oldiesLong stem forage such as hay can cause problems for older horses who have poor teeth, or those who are prone to weight loss. If they are struggling to chew the hay, wasting a lot or ‘quidding’ – chewing the hay and then dropping it – it might be time to think about providing a partial or complete hay replacer such as Fast Fibre. Barley and molasses free and containing good levels of fibre in a balanced diet, Fast Fibre soaks in

under a minute to form a soft palatable mash – the perfect solution for golden oldies with dental problems.

For more feeding tips and information call the friendly Allen and Page Nutrition Team on 01362 822 902 or visit www.allenandpage.co.uk

Fibre First

cont. from p.16

Feeding • Hay




TopSpec 10:10 Joint Support

Supporting Health & Vitality

TopSpec 10:10 Joint Support is an additive which provides a nutritional support system to promote the comfort zone in and around joints. This granular, caramel flavoured, product can be mixed into any feed daily. TopSpec 10:10 Joint Support contains a generous combination of natural sources of Glucosamine (10g/500kg horse/day) and MSM (10g/500kg horse/day). Glucosamine is a precursor and component GAGs, of which Hyaluronic Acid is a well known example. GAGS are essential constituents of cartilage and synovial fluid. MSM is a bio-available

source of sulphur and helps to maintain optimum function in connective tissues such as tendons, ligaments and muscles. It promotes fluid dispersion at injury sites via its role in the permeability of cell walls. TopSpec 10:10 Joint Support also contains a blend of anti-oxidants, i.e. vitamins C, E, beta-carotene and natural tocopherols, to combat excess free radicals around the joint. £29.95 - 1.5kg

Tel: 01845 565030 www.topspec.com

Many good doers are often put on a restricted diet with a limited amount of grazing so are frequently lacking in essential vitamins, minerals and trace elements. However, it is vital that a well balanced diet is fed.

Forage ‘n’ Fibre will provide a low energy diet of natural forages and fibres that is well balanced in essential vitamins, minerals and trace elements so you can be sure that a fully balanced diet is fed, helping support overall health and vitality. As it contains no cereals and is very low in starch and sugars it is well suited to horses that suffer from laminitis as well as good doers that need a low calorie diet but it

will also help to provide a low energy, non-heating diet for horses that tend to get excitable.

With high fibre levels Forage ‘n’ Fibre helps ensure slow rates of digestion throughout the hind gut and helps to maintain gut health. Soya oil is also added for coat and skin condition. Due to the natural balance of forages found in Forage ‘n’ Fibre it is a highly palatable product, ideal for everyday feeding.

For more information please contact Rowen Barbary Horse Feeds on 01948 880598 or email [email protected]

Feeding • Health Care




Health Care • Colic

Prevention of Colic: An UpdateBen Sturgeon, BSc, BVM&S, Cert EP, MRCVS

In the previous article we looked at the types and causes of colic, hopefully with a perspective that actual causes (and hence diagnoses) are often unknown. Colic is one of the most difficult diseases to both study and explain due to the large number of influencing factors and hypotheses are only meaningful if an accurate diagnosis of the primary disease is determined. Nevertheless in looking at prevention we need to consider the epidemiological studies providing information about incidence, mortality, and hence risk factors.

Firstly, determining the incidence of colic can help determine if the rate of colic in a yard is excessive. Of 100 horses 4-10 cases are expected annually although the number varies greatly between yards, ranging from 0-30%. Approximately 10-15% occur in horses that have experienced previous episodes with 2-4 colics annually in some horses.

80-85 % of cases can be described as simple colic or ileus because no specific diagnosis is identified and respond to medical treatment or resolve spontaneously. In one study approximately 30% of horses with colic identified by owners were never seen by a vet. Studies of colics presented to vets have reported a predominance of simple obstruction (impactions) or spasmodic colic with impactions diagnosed in approximately 10%. Obstructing or strangulating diseases, requiring surgery, represent only 2-4%.

Colic mortality has decreased over the years and is now placed as third almost equal to injuries, which was second. Horse mortality from all types of colic is approximately 0.7 deaths per 100 horses/year with a case fatality rate of 6.7%, the predominant reason for death being stomach rupture, strangulating lesions or enteritis.

The true incidence of specific intestinal diseases causing colic is not known. Where the segment of bowel involved is determined, the large colon is the most commonly affected followed by the small intestine, cecum and small colon. Large colon torsion is the most common cause of strangulating obstruction, with strangulating diseases of the small intestine causing the highest fatality rate. Loss of use due to colic averaged 2-3 days, less than that resulting from trauma, lameness or neurological disease.

Risk Factors for ColicRisk is stated as the odds that the colic incidence will increase in a group of

horses exposed to a particular factor compared to the colic incidence in a group that is not exposed to that factor. For example horses that have had a previous colic are 3 times more likely to have a second compared to a horse that has never had colic. Colic risk may also be categorized into internal and external risks. Breed or enlarged inguinal rings are examples of an internal risk while the diet and housing are considered external risks.

Breed, Age and SexWhile affecting any breed, several studies suggest an increased incidence in Arabs and Thoroughbred. Standardbreds and Warmblood stallions have an increase in incidence of inguinal hernias due to the increased size of their inguinal rings.

Younger (<2 years) and older horses (>10 years) are at less risk for simple colic. Middle aged horses are higher risk than older horses; however older horses are more likely to require surgery. Weanling and yearling are more likely to have ileocecal intussusceptions and older horses (>12 years) are at increased risk of strangulating lipoma.

Sex is a risk for diseases such as inguinal hernia in stallions and large colon displacement/volvulus in periparturient mares. Male and older horses are at slightly higher risk of entrapment of the small intestine in the epiploic foramen. For the most part male and female horses appear to be equally affected by simple colic likely related to management or activity.

DietFeeds or feeding activity have long been associated with the incidence of colic though information is largely anecdotal. Course roughage with low digestibility especially course fiber is associated with impactions. Poor dentition is proposed to predispose due to poor mastication, though this has not been confirmed. Grain overload increases the risk of both colic and laminitis. Studies indicate that increased amounts of grain or changes in the type of hay and grain fed increase risk compared to horses without grain or changes in feed. Daily feeding of concentrate 2.5-5 kg/day and > 5 kg/day to adult horses increased the risk of colic 4.8 and 6.3 times, respectively, compared to horses fed no grain. Grain diets decrease the water content of ingesta in the colon due to reducing fiber which binds water. Grain also increases gas production and is more likely to create an environment favouring gas production or altered motility leading

to displacements. Feeding small amounts of grain at frequent intervals reduces fluid shifts in the large colon as compared to fluid shifts that occur with twice daily feeding of larger quantities of concentrate.

Environment/ManagementReports suggest an increased risk of caecal and large colon impaction in horses that have quick decreases in activity, such as reducing regular exercise or changing from turn-out activity to strict box rest. A decreased risk was found with low horse pasture densities and with water access compared to turn out in paddocks without water.

Management factors are always difficult to compare between yards and changes in management are also difficult to detect. The increased risk associated with care by trainers compared to owners is supported by two studies suggesting either a difference in the quality or frequency of observation between the two groups or better management by owners.

It seems logical that housing, diet and feeding routine are associated with colic and anecdotal information from studs suggest the routine of feeding horses grain after being brought in and then keeping them boxed increases risk, specifically colon tympany and large colon displacement. By altering this daily routine, including keeping horses turned out after grain feeding, the incidence is decreased. Similarly, when hay is available to horses on pasture, this is consumed as part of the diet and the incidence is decreased.

Event Associated Risk Factors

Previous ColicHorses with a history of previous colic are at higher risk for future colic as are horses with a prior history of abdominal surgery due to adhesions, bowel scarring or stricture. These are commonly seen within the first 2-3 months after surgery after which the incidence decreases to near normal. Horses with colon impactions have a high rate of repeat. This may be due to decreased numbers of neurons in the myenteric plexus of the pelvic flexure and right dorsal colon creating alterations in bowel motility predisposing to obstruction.

ParasitesParasites (ascarids, tapeworms, strongyles) are associated with an increased risk in several studies and a decrease in colic after controlling small strongyle infection on several yards

with a high incidence is well recorded. Tapeworm infection is related to an increase, specifically associated with diseases of the ileum and cecum such as ileocecal intussusception or cecocecal intussusception. Although there are no studies describing the incidence or prevalence of colic associated with thrombosis of the cranial mesenteric artery due to Strongylus vulgaris larva, the decrease in mesenteric artery thrombus formation observed in horses at surgery and necropsy appears to parallel the increased use of ivermectin in horses over the last 30 years.

Cribbing/Wind suckingCribbing, long associated with colic, has demonstrated to be associated with simple large colon obstruction and surgical entrapment of the small intestine in the epiploic foramen, as well as ulceration.

PregnancyMares have an increased risk for colon displacement or volvulus during late pregnancy and lactation. Mares most commonly have an increased risk 60-150 days post-foaling. The physiologic events predisposing to this are not known, but serum calcium concentrations and alterations in diet, including increases in concentrates to support milking may be related.

Exercise/PerformanceTo date, studies have not fully assessed the relationship between incidence of colic and exercise or activity level. Racehorses, event horses and endurance horses all have an increased risk of gastric ulceration. Although horses used for racing or eventing had the highest incidence, these activities did not pose a significant risk when compared to other factors such as diet. Studies found decreased risks in horses on premises where horses were trained for eventing versus those housed in stables which were training for flat racing.

Horse transportHorse transport increased the risk of colic in several studies and it is not uncommon for vets to administer a laxative prior to prevent impactions.

FeverIt is logical that horses with infection may influence the gastrointestinal tract predisposing them. Horses with fever are 2x as likely to have colic.

WeatherVets and owners frequently associate weather changes with increased frequency of colic but many studies


Health Care • Worming

Likit Shows its Serious Side

have been unable to find statistical evidence of increased risk. Cold weather, which affects water intake, has been linked to increased impaction colic. Grass sickness has been typically associated with changes from warm to cold weather. But when in depth studies have taken place the overriding conclusion was that the increase in colic episodes was most likely not directly related to weather, but rather due to management changes caused by the weather.

AnesthesiaGeneral anesthesia (for any type of surgery) increases the risk of colic.

So you can see that there are many factors influencing risk, many of those completely outside of your ability to influence them. The simplest and ideal management options for preventing colic are listen below but if nothing else you may be able to increase your observations of potential case scenarios

or at least not become upset when your horse develops the condition:

• Feed at least 60 percent of the daily ration as forage (hay or pasture)• When possible use a grazing muzzle to control weight and intake of rich forage• Limit grain to as little as possible – none is preferable• Substitute high-fat feeds and high- fiber feed for grain supplements when more calories are needed• Provide plenty of turnout and exercise each day• Provide drinking water• Implement regular deworming programs• Implement a herd health program of preventive care (dental exams)• Minimize stress (transport, herd dynamics, housing, illness, injury) as much as possible

Likit Products have long been used to reduce the stress and boredom associated with stable life and further weight has now been added to this reasoning. A recent American study looked at chronic crib biting in adult horses and the various environmental influences that may affect this behaviour. Likit stable toys were offered to horses during the trial and it was found that the Tongue Twister ‘significantly decreased cribbing’. Dr Derek Cuddeford, consultant to Likit Products, explained the findings: “The horses used in the trial spent an average of 23% of their time cribbing; that is about 5.5 hours in every 24. Attempts were made to reduce cribbing activity by exercising the horses. However, 10 minutes of cantering had no effect and 20 minutes of canter work led to a considerable increase in crib biting. In contrast, licking the Tongue Twister effectively reduced cribbing activity by 27%. “Crib biting has a range of negative effects and indicates reduced welfare at some point in the horse’s life. It’s important to note that the beneficial effect of the Tongue Twister was

measured in horses with fixated abnormal behaviour. Because the Tongue Twister encourages foraging activity in the stable, it is quite possible that the likelihood of any horse or pony developing abnormal behaviours be reduced. Thus, the welfare of any stabled equine should be improved through the provision of stable toys.” The Likit range includes something for every kind of equine, from the Likit Holder and Tongue Twister, to the original Boredom Breaker and the more challenging Boredom Buster. The Snak-A-Ball - used with pelleted feed or Likit Snaks - is also useful as a means of extending feeding times or simply providing a distraction from the tedium of stable life. Likit and Little Likit refills are designed to be used in conjunction with Likit stable toys and come in a wide choice of flavours, plus Salt, Ice and Sport formulations. Contact Likit Products on 01655 750523 for further information or visit, www.likit.co.uk


Health Care • Physiotherapy • Worming

Physiotherapy ProblemsKim GunstoneMy horse got caught in a wire fence six months ago sustaining lacerations to both knees. My vet assessed the wounds and was happy there were no tendon injuries. However a few weeks later one of the knees became very swollen. The horse was placed on antibiotics and box rest. The vet is now happy there is no infection however the knee remains very stiff and swollen. Is there anything that physiotherapy could do to help?

In this situation your chartered veterinary physiotherapist would firstly liase with your vet to establish that they were happy there was no underlying infection or cellulitis causing the swelling at the knee (carpus). They would also have to make sure there were no contraindications (restrictions) to any form of weight bearing, movement or physiotherapy techniques. When the physiotherapist assesses your horse they will assess the movement of the individual joint and the surrounding joints. If one joint is restricted in movement this will cause the surrounding joints to compensate to allow as normal movement as possible through the whole limb. If the restriction of the carpus movement is prolonged, the other joints will be more susceptible to injury and abnormal wear and tear. In time it may be the other joints that cause your horse pain and restrict its function as opposed to the currently restricted one. It is often the joints that are doing more of the work that end up causing the greater problem.

The muscles around the shoulder on the affected limb may also become tight and overworked as they will have to do more work to compensate for the lack of movement round one joint. As the majority of the muscles controlling limb movement are above the elbow it will be the elbow and scapular muscles that will likely tighten. Your physiotherapist can use various techniques to release off these muscles and to try and maintain as normal function through these muscles as possible. If the

restriction in joint movement is a long term problem then your physiotherapist may need to release these muscles off on a regular basis as well as give you some exercises to try and obtain as normal function as possible.

All the other limbs and back should also be assessed as horses are very good at compensating by off-loading the affected leg and using the other limbs more. At the time of the injury the horse probably reduced some of the weight through both of the forelimbs due to pain. If a horse has pain in either or both of its forelimbs it will try and move some more of its weight onto its hind limbs. Naturally, a horse will stand with approximately 60% of its weight through its forelimbs. In order to transfer more weight onto its hindlimbs it will tighten up through its latissimus dorsi muscle. Tightening of this muscle will block the movement through the lumbar spine and also the lateral bend through the trunk. This in turn will restrict the work of the thoracic sling (a group of muscles that work to allow the horse to lift up through

its back). Preventing the horse from lifting up through its back will block it from bringing its hindlimbs under it to generate forward propulsion. A secondary consequence of this will be that the neck muscles will change from a fine tuning and balance role, they will set themselves and be used to drag the forelimbs forward. All these compensations will make your horse feel very stiff and will also put abnormal strain through other joints. Your physiotherapist will be able to reduce these compensations and advise you on exercises to prevent them from returning.

Finally your physiotherapist may give you specific stretches to work on the movement of the affected carpus (knee joint). The success of these stretches will depend on the compliance of your horse to participate in repeated, sustained stretches over weeks, if not months. However by six months after an injury with extensive scar tissue physiotherapy may not be able to improve the range of movement through the joint. If this is the case you chartered veterinary physiotherapist will liase with your vet on future management and continue to advise you on dealing with the on-going movement compensations.

Kim GunstoneChartered Veterinary PhysiotherapistBSC Hons Physiotherapy, PgDip Veterinary Physiotherapy, MCSP, HPC, ACPAT Cat A.

Tel: 07912378934Email: [email protected] in Dundee covering Tayside and Fife

For more information on veterinary physiotherapy, or to find a chartered veterinary physiotherapist in your area go to www.acpat.org




Health Care • Ligaments

Suspensory LigamentsPeter Fenton BVM&S, MRCVS

Suspensory Desmitis

Definitions;Desmitis – Refers to inflammation of a LigamentProximal – Closer to the body/towards the top of the legDistal – Away from the body, towards the bottom of the leg.Medial – Refers to the inside aspect of the leg.Lateral – Refers to the outside aspect of the leg.

Palmar/Plantar – Refers to the back of the leg, when describing anything beneath the carpus/tarsus (knee/hock).

Dorsal – Refers to the front of the leg, when describing anything beneath the carpus/tarsus.

The suspensory ligament is a soft tissue structure which runs down the back of each limb. The anatomy of the suspensory ligament is described below, and illustrated in the adjacent photos.

Proximally the suspensory originates from the distal row of carpal (knee) bones and metacarpus (canon). It runs distally on the palmar surface of the metacarpal (canon) bone and then splits just proximal to the fetlock, with a small branch connecting to each sesamoid bone.

The two segments then continue distally on the dorsal surface of the proximal phalanx and joins the common digital

extensor, which continues to insert on the middle and distal phalanges.

In the pictures below you can see the position of the suspensory ligament laid out on a model of a horse’s skeleton;

In Picture 1 you can seen the way that the suspensory ligament originates from behind the carpus, and runs down

between the splint bones to split just above the fetlock, from there the branches run around the sesamoid bones and wrap around the front of the leg.

In Picture 2 you can see where the Suspensory ligament runs around to the front of the limb, and merges with the common digital extensor in the mid pastern region.

In Picture 3 the positions of the Superficial and Deep digital flexors have been added, showing how deep the suspensory ligament liesInjury to the suspensory ligament is relatively rare and accounts for approximately 5% of lamenesses, but is much more common in Standardbreds, Hunters and Showjumpers.

Injuries occur when the limb is over-extended, putting increased strain on the flexor tendons and suspensory ligament. This is normally caused through landing after a jump, or through rapid pulling-up or turning. Other causes of injury can be fractures to the 3rd Metacarpal bone where a sharp fragment damages the proximal aspect of the suspensory ligament. While injuries normally occur when horses are jumping they can also occur when horses turn

sharply while working in deep arenas or schools. Injuries commonly only affect one forelimb.

Damage to the suspensory ligament is predisposed by poor foot balance which causes the foot to land irregularly, straight-hock conformation which puts excess strain on the ligament, or any disease which causes a horse to put more weight on one limb.

Unfortunately diagnosing suspensory ligament disease is not a black-or-white affair. In most cases it is hard to isolate the exact cause, and the reason for veterinary attention is normally horses showing an intermittent lameness which is made worse with exercise, but improves with rest. Swelling and heat are not reliable findings.

A firm diagnosis relies on isolating the lameness with local anaesthetic nerve blocks, followed by visualising the damage to the ligament using ultrasound.Injuries to the suspensory ligament can

Picture 1

Picture 2

Picture 3


Health Care • Ligaments

be sub-divided into 3 different types, depending on the location of the injury. These are Proximal Suspensory Desmitis, Desmitis of the Body of the Suspensory Ligament, or Suspensory Branch Desmitis.

Proximal Suspensory Desmitis – This is when the injury occurs close to the origin of the ligament. There is normally minimal swelling associated with this type of the disease, but in some early cases heat and a small amount of swelling can be located at the back of the carpus. In more longstanding cases there are frequently no palpable abnormalities. Treatment consists of a prolonged period of box rest and anti-inflammatory drugs to control pain and reduce swelling. This is followed by a gradual increase in exercise and correction of any predisposing factors that have been found.

In cases of 3rd Metacarpal Bone fractures causing this type of injury there is a non-weight bearing lameness. These cases are diagnosed using x-rays and ultrasound. The prognosis of recovery from metacarpal fractures is poor, and relies heavily on complete immobilisation of the limb using surgery and supporting the limb with a cast.

Desmitis of the Body of the Suspensory Ligament – This is primarily a racehorse and polo-pony disease, but is also seen in eventers. It is caused either by overextending the ligament, or

occasionally by fractures to the splint bones causing damage.

Horses suffering from this type of injury are normally very sore when the affected area is palpated, and the suspensory ligament is usually enlarged over the injured section. The swelling seen can be mistaken for injuries to other soft tissues in that area, so careful evaluation of the whole leg is required.

In most cases ultrasound will show an obviously enlarged tendon, but finding individual tears is less common.

Treatment is similar to treatment of Proximal Suspensory Desmitis, with affected horses receiving anti-inflammatory drugs to reduce scarring, and a gradual increase in exercise. This programme frequently takes many months, and the overall prognosis for a return to work is guarded.

Some vets will use a technique called Extracorporeal Shockwave Therapy to provide pain relief to horses with body desmitis. This treatment uses a machine to apply acoustic shockwaves to the affected region of the suspensory ligament. It is a method which is commonly used in humans suffering from diseases such as Achilles Tendonitis and “tennis elbow”.

While shockwave has not been proven to improve healing or hasten recovery, it is beneficial at making some horses more

comfortable.

Suspensory Branch Desmitis – This is the most common type of injury, and affects the branches of the suspensory ligament as they wrap around the fetlock to attach to the extensor tendon.

This type of injury normally affects a single branch, and is very commonly associated with poor foot balance.Horses suffering from this injury show very variable degrees of lameness and not all horses will show any swelling over the damaged branch. Pain can be elicited through palpating the injured area, but a firm diagnosis is made using ultrasound.This will show thickening or tearing of the ligament.

Sadly recovery from branch tears is poor, with injuries requiring many months of rest to repair. These tears also frequently recur.

In humans and horses alike damage to any soft tissue, especially tendons or ligaments, will lead to a repair that is never perfect.

Tendons and Ligaments are made of highly developed Collagen fibres. These are among some of the most highly specialised tissues in the body and are arranged into tight bundles which make them phenomenally strong.

Once these tissues are damaged they are not able to be repaired in the same

way, resulting in disorganised scar tissue being produced instead. Using anti-inflammatory drugs and a controlled exercise programme dramatically improves the final repair, but the damaged segment of tendon or ligament will always be a weakness.

Because of the disorganisation of the scar it loses a lot of the elasticity it once had. This means that the remaining normal tendon will need to stretch much further even under normal load, leading to a much higher chance of re-injury.

In conclusion damage to the suspensory ligament is rare, but when it does occur it is important to realise that any injury, regardless of where it occurs, will take many months to repair and recover.Sadly not all horses will be able to return to their previous level of work without lameness or causing further damage but it is very hard to accurately predict the outcome of these cases.

Careful veterinary examination is needed to accurately diagnose suspensory ligament damage as there are a very wide range of clinical symptoms.

Above all if you have any queries about lamenesses associated with tendons or ligaments it is always better to seek veterinary advice sooner rather than later, to minimise any further damage and speed-up the road to recovery.






Health Care • Horse Behaviour • Worming

All you need for four tests in a handy

zipped wallet

Now with postage paid sample return, no

need to stamp

Economical, easy to follow with free

qualified advice.

Services for yards and individuals,

please enquire

WES

TGAT

E LA

BORA

TORI

ES

‘Think twice before using wormers’ *

Get it right with a simple programme based on worm counts* BVA advice

Order online now www.westgatelabs.co.uk or call 01670 791994 - more than just a worm count.

Be organised with a 4count | healthcare season pack

ONLY £31 (+ £2 P&P)

‘Testing should be the cornerstone of worming’

Speaking the Language, Part 2A new series by SUSAN McBANE explaining equestrian and scientific terminology in relation to equine behaviour and psychology, and its effects on horses and training

(THIS series is based on a glossary of equestrian and scientific terms presented at the First International Equitation Science Symposium, 2005. The glossary description is given in inverted commas, followed by Susan’s discussion.)

ACCEPTING THE BIT: ‘The way a horse responds to the bit in particular and to cues in general. During locomotion and transitions, the horse’s mouth remains closed, soft in the jaw and with relaxed lips. A horse that accepts the bit does not shorten or lengthen its neck or alter its head position during travelling and transitions. Accepting the bit is generally accompanied by relaxation of the neck and body.’

Some readers will realise at once that the above description is not that generally thought of today as ‘accepting the bit’. Riding today often aims at a firm contact and a more restrictive style of riding than would permit a horse to go in the way described. The horse’s relationship with the bit, therefore, is often more one of having to tolerate its pressure than agreeably accepting its presence and contact. This is not conducive to that essential quality of relaxation.

In the best circles of horsemanship, a horse accepting the bit as above is seen as a sign of a skilled, sensitive rider with a correct understanding of horse-friendly equestrian principles and the expertise to put them into practice with care and tact. This clearly means that a horse who does not fit the description is being ridden by a rider who does not have those qualities. The most superbly trained horse can fall short of the description if ridden by a poor rider

whose use of the bit forces the horse to seek ways of escaping it.

In order to accept the bit, a horse must find it acceptable. This means that it must be comfortable and not a source of confusion, discomfort or pain which all lead to varying levels of fear. Horses are not politically correct: if something bothers them they say so through their behaviour which always reflects on the rider or trainer. (Sometimes past bad treatment can be remembered by the horse who might associate bits with the abuse and behave accordingly.)

There are four main areas to consider regarding bit comfort and acceptability: 1) the type, fit and adjustment of the bit, 2) the conformation and condition of the horse’s mouth and teeth, and 3) how the bit is used by both horse and rider.

THE TYPE, FIT AND ADJUSTMENT OF THE BIT: The saying that ‘there is a key to every horse’s mouth’ has spawned a plethora of bits and bitting systems. It unfortunately implies that the bit, rather than skilled horsemanship, can get a horse going correctly. Another very true saying is that ‘most bits are made for men’s heads, not horses’ mouths.’

Bitting and tack are popular subjects among horse-people as there seems to be an idea in some quarters that with the right equipment a horse will be almost magically transformed without the rider having to learn to really ride, and all problems will disappear.

Convoluted explanations abound as to how particular bits work but many of them are indeed made for men’s (or women’s) heads because that’s where they were dreamed up, often, it

seems to me, by people who have little knowledge of equine biomechanics, equine psychology or correct techniques in the rider and ways of going in the horse. Sometimes completely unrealistic claims are made for bits and combinations of gear when all that is needed is a minimum of comfortable tack and a sound knowledge of ethical schooling methods and equine behaviour and psychology.

Single jointed snaffles are not really comfortable for horses, particularly when pressure is applied to them. They assume a V-shape in the mouth (and no horse has a V-shaped mouth) and can painfully squeeze the bars. I much prefer French link snaffles or lozenge bits which conform better to the mouth. For youngsters or horses who fuss with their mouths, an eggbutt bit has a steadying effect. For horses used to bits and responding well to them, loose or wire ring ones give them a free-er feel, and they can encourage the horse to gently play with his bit, helping to keep his mouth moist (not wet or dry) and comfortable.

An excellent bit for a young horse is a Fulmer or full cheek French link: the cheeks above and below the mouthpiece help in turning a young, green or ‘spoiled’ horse and the mouthpiece conforms well to the mouth.

Materials are important and many people like synthetic plastics and various other materials, but I’m not sure that horses do. Rubber in particular must taste awful and the same goes for the harder vulcanite. Some metals are flavoured, some claim to be ‘softer’ than, for instance, stainless steel, and others claim to cause the horse to salivate (actually by, in some cases, causing minor irritation to the mucous membranes of the mouth, which cannot be good).

I prefer to use ordinary, tasteless stainless steel and give the horse his favourite titbit before putting in the bit, and again when the bridle and bit are finally comfortably in place. Then I can be sure that the horse has a lasting taste he likes, and not one he may not.

Fit and adjustment: With any type of bit, you should be able to fit the width of a finger on the mouthpiece between the corner of the horse’s mouth and the bit cheek or ring at one end, so that it neither slides from side to side nor pinches in the cheeks. The height of a jointed mouthpiece should be such that it creates one wrinkle at the corner of the lips. With a non-jointed mouthpiece, the mouthpiece should rest touching the corners of the lips but must not wrinkle them.

Curb chains should lie flat and right down in the chin or curb groove (that’s why it’s called the curb groove) for it to work properly and not rub the jawbones sore, as it would if fixed higher up. You should be just able to slide a finger easily underneath it all along its length. In double bridles, the bridoon is fitted like a snaffle and the curb lies about half an inch or nearly 2cm below it, so not touching the corners of the mouth at all. It must lie below the bridoon in the mouth. Generations of practice have ensured that these are the correct criteria for effective function and comfort for the horse, although they are widely ignored today.

Bits must be smooth with no sharp areas to cut the mouth and cause great pain. Frequently check loose and wire ring bits to ensure that the holes on the ends of the mouthpiece through which they run are not worn, making it easy for the lips to be caught in the ring and the hole.

CONFORMATION AND CONDITION OF MOUTH AND TEETH: Consideration should also be given to the horse’s mouth, with advice from a bit-fitting expert, if possible, as there is not space to cover everything here.

Research has shown that horses’ mouths are generally filled by their tongues and so thick mouthpieces, once thought to be kind, will probably not be so comfortable as thinner ones. Two


Health Care

mouthpieces, of course, as in a double bridle, cannot be so comfortable as a single mouthpiece, whether snaffle or, say, pelham, yet the ruling bodies of dressage still insist on their use. It’s time for a serious, informed rethink.

Any soreness caused by teething, injury or disease must be cleared up before putting a bit in a horse’s mouth, and the help of a vet and equine dental technician may be needed. If a horse has to be ridden for his welfare, such as restricted exercise facilities, he should be ridden in a bitless bridle.

Abnormal conformations such as parrot mouths (where the top front teeth overshoot the lower), or wolf teeth, hooks on the fronts of the upper first pre-molars (the most forward of the large cheek or back teeth) which can interfere with the bit, a deformed jaw and so on can all affect the type, fit and comfort of a bit. As a rule, young and old horses need their teeth and mouths checking twice a year, others yearly, by a vet or equine dental technician.

Between visits, be aware of your horse’s eating behaviour and his behaviour during work to check the comfort of his mouth. Signs of trouble eating include dropping food out of the mouth (‘quidding’); eating extra carefully and gingerly; looking anxious; holding the head oddly; eating less and slower than normal; playing with food

but not eating it and wincing when drinking cold water. In work, the horse may shake his head; hang to one side or the other; not respond normally to the bit; have mobile, tense lips and muzzle; move his head around and hold it abnormally (make sure you are not causing this); excessive frothing or salivating and, of course, blood in the mouth.

USE OF THE BIT BY HORSE AND RIDER: Along with the firm and sustained bit contact currently fashionable usually go tight nosebands and too-high bits. The latter subject is dealt with above under ‘Fit and adjustment’ above.

The effects of a firm contact plus a tight noseband are that the bit must feel fixed and oppressive in the mouth because the horse cannot open his jaws slightly to move and manipulate the bit with his tongue as he should be able to, and if it is fitted too high and pulled too firmly onto the lower jaw, there will be discomfort and probably pain plus possible injury to the mouth.

The tongue is a strong, sensitive muscle well supplied with blood and, in good riding, is free, with the lower jaw, to move the bit about for comfort, for proper feel and acceptance of aids and to communicate with the rider. None of this can happen if the jaws are strapped shut and the bit is pulled firmly or even hard on to the tongue and

lower jaw. The blood circulation in the tongue can be severely reduced (hence the blue colour sometimes seen if the horse manages to get his tongue out of his mouth to try to protect it), and the swallowing reflex is inhibited because the tongue is needed in swallowing. Saliva cannot be swallowed if the tongue is restricted. Some will drool out of the mouth (mistaken for ‘lots of lovely froth’) and some might find its way down the windpipe because the epiglottis, the little ‘lid’ which covers its entrance when the horse swallows to prevent food and fluid ‘going down the wrong way’ into the windpipe, is not in place. This must be a truly frightening sensation for the horse who, also, is not free to cough properly!

The forced ‘up-and-in’ or ‘down-and-in’ head carriage can also cause some flattening of the windpipe in the throat area according to recent post mortem studies, which reduces the airflow and gives the horse a suffocating feeling.

This can all be avoided, and horses and riders can use the bit as intended – to communicate with each other – if bits are a correct height and nosebands are adjusted so that the width of two fingers can be fitted between them and the front nasal bone of the face. If Grakles and flash straps are used, they should be loose enough to allow a

cont. on p.32


Grooming • Horse Behaviour • Tack & Turnout

finger easily to be run all round inside them.

The International Society for Equitation Science issued in February this year a press release announcing the development of a wedge-shaped taper gauge which can be slid down between the noseband and the nasal bone to a mark indicating that the noseband is loose enough to be comfortable and, therefore, correct. It is hoped that competition and showing stewards will be issued with these gauges so that the correct fit of horses’ nosebands can be ensured. I’d like to see them become mandatory. A ‘snug fit’ is NOT appropriate for nosebands!

In my previous series, I explained several times the useful and simple contact scale devised by equitation scientists to help riders achieve a contact which is comfortable for and acceptable to the horse and involves a light contact with the lips and tongue, not the bars which would involve squashing the tongue, and not pulling back the corners of the horse’s mouth. The scale, from 0 to 10, indicates that 1, 2 and 3 are classed as light, growing heavier towards the top end of the scale, 10, which would be as hard as you could pull in an emergency.

The nature of the contact is also important. Horses respond well to a variable, non-restrictive contact in general. I am not happy with the word ‘elastic’ as it can give the impression that even if the horse ‘gives’ to the

pressure it is never lessened. If a particular pressure is not achieving what you are asking for, rather than increasing it just vibrate the bit, which is more emphatic than a sustained pressure. We have all heard that horses are ‘into pressure’ animals and this goes for bits, too. They lean into or push against steady, sustained pressure (which is partly how they learn to pull and lean on the bit) but pay more attention to and back off intermittent pressure, such as nips and kicks from another horse or vibrations down the rein.

Holding a horse’s head in a vice-like grip with hands and/or noseband is no way to get a horse to accept his bit in the true sense. A ‘clear and present’, light, variable feel, according to circumstances, does the trick, plus correct schooling in transitions and bending exercises to get his weight back and lighten his forehand – as Sylvia Loch of the Classical Riding Club described it ‘light-seated and light-handed’.

SUSAN McBANE has an HNC in Equine Science and Management, the Classical Riding Club Gold Award and is an Associate (practitioner) Member of the International Society for Equitation Science (www.equitationscience.com) as well as author of 44 books. She and Anne Wilson publish ‘Tracking-up’ (see advert this issue). For lessons and clinics in and near Lancashire, ring 01254 705487 or email [email protected]. Website: www.susanmcbane.com

cont. from p.30

Grooming - the essentials

Groomed to perfection with Ride-Away

Fiona ReedGrooming our horses benefits them in a multitude of ways from stimulation of the circulatory system to relaxation as well as giving them a clean and shiny appearance.

A good coat of course starts from within, with fitness and health and a good diet. No amount of grooming can create a good coat on a horse in poor condition or with a starey

coat. A horse in good condition will have a soft sleek skin and their coat will generate plenty of grease and oil to give it shine and softness. With this natural oil will, however, come scurf and grease that will need to be groomed out to look fresh, clean and shiny.

Although good old fashioned elbow grease is the main essential

Grooming isn’t just a way to clean your horse, it’s also a great way to bond. Here, Ride-Away gives us their top tips for great grooming.

• Know the brushes-it sounds obvious, but your horse won’t thank you for using a dandy brush on a summer coat!• Whilst you’re grooming, check for injury.• It’s easier if all your grooming kit is in one place, so look at grooming boxes and tote bags.• If you’re using a coat shine or detangler, make sure you apply it carefully.

• If you want to enhance your horse’s coat, look at shampoos designed for specific colours. • If you’re applying oil, make sure it’s not going to burn your horse’s skin if he goes in the sun.

…and, for all your grooming kit and show ring needs, Ride-Away is a one stop shop that allows you to shop from home and have the products delivered to your door!

To find out more about Ride-Away, visit www.rideaway.co.uk or call 01347 810443.

requirement there are also plenty of helpful products in the marketplace to assist and make our jobs easier and to achieve an even better finish.

Firstly, to ensure your horse has a good coat and skin to work with he must be on a good diet, with an adequate percentage of oils and possibly a supplement to help his coat. He must be wormed regularly and warm and rugged where necessary. It is also helpful if he is worked sufficiently hard enough to sweat a couple of times a week and then washed down to remove the salts from the skin.

Once you have a coat that is in good condition, the work begins to get and keep it clean. Although it may be necessary to shampoo initially, the best coats are created with a lot of hard work as this stimulates and massages the skin and encourages the natural oils to give depth to the shine. Newly shampooed coats tend to stand up on end in both the cold and in bright sunlight, whereas a thoroughly groomed coat will lie flat. Clearly there are some instances when a shampoo the day before a show is essential, particularly with a grey or coloured horse, but with others try to do this several days before a show.

The best day-to-day routine is for the horse to have a thorough 30 to 40 minute grooming following exercise while they are still warm. At this point you will tend to use the more ‘old-fashioned’ items from your well filled grooming kit; a stiff dandy brush and a rubber curry to bring

the grease to the surface, followed by a softer body brush to remove it and give a rigorous massage at the same time. Modern design twists on the ergonomics of brushes made these much easier to hold and use, but there is still no shortcut to the effort required! Finish off with either an ultra-soft bristled goat hair type brush or a linen or lint/fluff free stable rubber to remove the slightest hint of dust. Daily mane and tail treatment varies between those left natural such as natives and traditional cobs to those that are pulled. Be wary of brushing out any tail on a daily basis as this can thin a tail over time as you will lose a few hairs each day. A silicone based coat conditioner applied before brushing or combing through will help brush out tangles with reduced damage but many people prefer to brush through only following shampooing and conditioning. A pulled tail should be damped and bandaged to a level below the dock at the start of the grooming session and then removed at the end. This half hour each days help train the hair to grow close to the dock. Wet the mane over with a damp brush to train any stray hairs over to the right side.

Once groomed and clean rug your

cont. on p.34


Grooming • Horse Behaviour • Tack & Turnout


Grooming • Tack & Turnout

www.midkinleith.comWide range of quality tack & clothing at bargain prices

Spend over £50 for FREE Delivery

cont. from p.32

Show Preparation Products from Supreme ProductsSupreme Products is the well-established British expert in the field of top quality products for the show ring. Founded in 1993, the Yorkshire-based company prides itself on producing the very best products to aid in top class turnout at the highest level. The Supreme Products Professional Collection now includes more than 35 products with everything from shampoos and coat preparations to make up, highlighters and hoof care products – specifically designed to enhance preparation and presentation for the show ring and arena. Achieving perfection in the arena has never been easier with Supreme Products Sparkle from the Supreme Products Professional Collection. Designed to be the ultimate show ring preparation product, Sparkle is a superior mane and tail dressing that produces body, glamour and shine. An immaculate horse that gleams and shines really does make a difference in the show ring and is worth spending some time on as part of your show preparation routine. Turn to Supreme Products Glistening Oil to add subtle glamour and definition. Glistening Oil is perfect for enhancing the ears, face, legs and dock, producing an extra special finish. With the summer shows here, stock up your grooming box with Supreme Products de luxe Coat Gloss. Helping to produce the ultimate finish in show ring preparation Supreme

Products de luxe Coat Gloss produces an immaculate high-shine show coat. Sometimes no amount of scrubbing can brighten socks, so why not make life easier for yourself, with Supreme Products Leg & Body Whitener. For a brilliant bright white finish, Supreme Products Leg & Body Whitener is easy to apply and can be used wet or dry over the whole body or used to target specific areas. For the best hooves in the ring, look no further than Supreme Products Hoof Paint from the Supreme Products Professional Collection. Supreme Products Hoof Paint is a shiny hoof preparation which dries and stays shiny in adverse conditions when applied to clean dry hooves. There is no need to wash the Hoof Paint off after use as it is a water based product and not a varnish, so will not seal the hooves or dry them out. Available in Black or Clear. Tel (01377) 229050 www.supremeproducts.co.uk

horse with either a cotton sheet as the first layer or a stable rug with a shiny nylon lining to keep the coat flat and maintain the shine. Ensure your horse has enough rugs to keep him warm, regardless of the time of year. Specialised hoods and full lycra or fleece bodies can also assist in maintaining a shine, prevent shoulder rug rubs and can help train a mane over to the correct side and protect plaits if plaited the night before a show.

Nowadays there are of course some fabulous products on the market to assist us with the finishing touches and are an incredible help for those who maybe do not have the time to spend on a daily basis or whose horses live out. These give a bit of a shortcut, save time and produce a first class finish of turnout when making public appearances. From major items such as electric groomers and portable hot showers to specialist stain removers and shampoos to enhance any coloured coat to hoof varnish and eye make-up ... the help out there is endless! Specialised equine shampoos will remove dirt and grime but not strip the coat of all its natural oils, hence giving a better shine than using a detergent that might appear a

cheaper alternative. Many will now deepen the colour of a bay or chestnut coat or brighten a grey or coloured. Stain removers can help the stubborn yellowing on a grey or coloured horses’ white tail or socks, and where those are more established there are chalk, paste or aerosol whiteners to mask and cover them. Do remember to brush off any excess dried chalk before entering the ring though, so you do not leave a trail of wafting dust as you trot in front of the judge! The shampooed, newly clean horse can be finished with a coat conditioner or silicone based spray for extra gloss and shine, but be careful to avoid the saddle area and the mane for those to be plaited. These products also help the coat repel dirt and will keep your smart shiny look for longer.

On showday, and before you go into the ring take time to make your last minute titivations to catch the judge’s eye and give that extra bit of glamour. Create quarter marks with a fine toothed comb and soft body brush. These can be enhanced and given a sharper appearance with some useful products sprayed onto the coat first. Rub oil or highlighters onto the muzzle, round the eyes, on the knees, hocks and through the tail. These are available in clear or black

which emphasise the eyes and joints on a dappled grey quite beautifully, but try not to make your horse look like a panda, so practice at home first.

Feet should be oiled for a smart finish, or use a varnish when showing on an all-weather surface so that the feet stay clean rather than have sand or fibres stuck to them. Again available in black or clear, use which suits your horse best, care should be taken not to black out striped feet under some

societies rules where they stipulate a horse’s natural markings must not be altered.

We all take pride in how our horses look in public, whatever discipline we compete in, not just showing and with so much additional help in the market place with helpful products, together with hard work and good stable management we can all take pride in our horses looking at their very best.




Field & Stable • Schooling • Training

cont. on p.37

Simple Leg Yielding

A lick of love from rescue horses at Blue Cross

Rowan Tweddle BHSII (SM) B.Sc HonsWhen your horse can walk trot and canter in straight lines and circles, maintaining a reasonable degree of balance and rhythm, it is time to introduce lateral work. One of the simplest lateral movements is leg yielding (if you care to read more around the subject you will discover some purists do not leg yield their young horses, believing that teaching the horse to fall away from the inside leg makes it more difficult to learn advanced movements where the horse is expected to stay around the inside leg. But many people do, and I believe it is a very useful exercise for the majority of riders).

Essentially leg yielding is having the horse move forwards and slightly sideways at the same time. The amount of bend throughout the length of the horse’s body can vary. The more bend, the easier the exercise is for the horse, but the less the legs will cross, and conversely with a very straight spine the horse will find the exercise more difficult as the inside legs will have to cross over the outside legs more. I would start off by allowing the horse plenty of bend until he understands that

he is to step sideways away from the pressure of your leg aid.

Begin by turning down the quarter line (red dashes) 5 m away from the corner. Ride straight up and down a couple of times. Then the 3rd or so time, turn down the quarter line, take a little inside flexion and gently press the horse with your inside leg in an on-off motion. If he speeds up, slow him down to show him that is not the reaction you are looking for. If nothing happened you may have to show him the way by asking for inside bend and almost allowing him to “fall out” through the shoulder to the wall. (You can decrease the amount of bend when he is more established).

It is vital for your horse’s learning that you take your leg OFF when he moves away from it. That is his reward for responding correctly to a new signal. If you carry on scrubbing at his side he will become deadened to your aids!

Keep repeating the on – off leg aid until you have reached the wall just before the quarter marker, then straighten up and ride away.

Leg yield is a brilliant exercise for playing around with. Once established you can practice doing a leg yield with the horse’s body very straight – parallel to the wall. You can move on and do the leg yield in trot (which is actually easier for the horse). Obviously you will work on both reins equally. As in all the other exercises we have covered, you are aiming to maintain the rhythm of whatever pace you are in, maintain the stride length and achieve the movement with as little pressure as possible – remember the communication between the horse and yourself should be just that – between the two of you, not visible for every onlooker to see!

Homeless horses and ponies at Blue Cross, one of the UK’s leading animal charities, are now enjoying a free supply of Likit Treats and Toys in their stables and field shelters, thanks to the generosity of Likit Products. When Likit read that Blue Cross horses were using their products they decided to donate 50 of their specialist treats to

the charity along with some additional Likit Holders, to help enhance the lives of the many horses and ponies being rehabilitated at the charity’s horse rehoming centre in Burford, Oxfordshire. Vicki Alford, Blue Cross horse manager at Burford, said: “We do our best to enrich the lives of the horses and ponies at our centres, many of whom are with us for several months while they undergo a programme of rehabilitation. We have used products like Likits for a number of years - they’re especially useful at keeping those on prolonged box rest happily occupied. We receive no government funding so we are hugely grateful for generous donations like these, which help improve the lives of our horses and ponies while they wait for happy new homes.”


Field & Stable • Insurance

Blue Cross Spirit, an eight-year-old gelding with a big personality, was recently returned to Blue Cross because his borrower was finding it hard to manage him while he was on box rest due to an injury. Spirit needs regular entertainment as he gets bored very easily and Likits are a great distraction for him. He should make a full recovery from his injury and will be looking for a new home soon.

Likit Products are a range of equine toys and treats designed to help relieve boredom and stress in stabled horses by promoting natural grazing

behaviours. All the products are manufactured in Scotland, UK using human food grade raw materials so you can be assured the best for your horse. The range offers varied levels of challenge so there’s bound to be a Likit to suit every horse. Lindsay Gall, Marketing Manager of Likit continued: “Blue Cross does such an amazing job and we are so pleased to be able to help them bring some extra joy to the lives of the deserving horses and ponies in their expert care.” www.likit.co.uk Visit www.bluecross.org.uk

cont. from p.36


Competing • Events

Competing on a shoestring budget

Eventing Legend Mary King at Your Horse Live

In the current economic climate we’re all looking for ways to save money and may be tempted to reduce the number of competition outings we have with our horses as a way of spending less. However, Charlotte Collyer a marketing executive with leading specialist equine insurance provider, Petplan Equine, tells us how she manages to compete her event horse without breaking the bank and offers her helpful tips for competing on a shoestring.

With the price of diesel at an all time high, one of the biggest expenses has to be travel costs. One way to overcome this is to take advantage of all the local events within hacking distance.

This can be a great way of relaxing competition nerves and an enjoyable way to warm up your horse before you arrive. It’s always a good idea to go with a friend, for safety as well as for company.

If it’s mainly fun you’re after, organise your own in-house events with your fellow liveries. This is an enjoyable and affordable way of competing without having to travel. New initiatives such as ‘Dressage Anywhere’, allow you to ride a British Dressage test in the comfort of your own manége and have it judged by a top British Dressage judge. All you need is a helper armed with a video camera, and although you will still incur entry fees, you will save on travel and still be in with a chance of winning a rosette and prize money!

In the case of events further afield lift sharing is a great way to mitigate your costs. If you have a lorry of your own, find someone who needs a lift or, if you don’t have your own transport, find someone with a space in their lorry or trailer. Either way, most people are happy to share providing you pay your share of all costs and both you and your horse are well behaved! Friends and fellow liveries, people at shows

A firm favourite in the world of eventing, top international rider Mary King is set to wow the crowds at Your Horse Live.

Held on November 10 and 11 at Stoneleigh Park, Warwickshire the event includes top class demonstrations and the chance to shop till you drop.

An incredible opportunity is on offer, to watch and learn from one of the world’s best event riders.

Mary will give a number of demonstrations throughout the weekend, allowing visitors to take in her wealth of knowledge and listen to some top tips for success.

With an iconic career spanning more than 30 years, Mary is a regular on British teams and has remained at the top of the sport through hard work, determination and natural talent.

In her glittering career Mary has won six team World and European Championship golds and four British Open titles, as well as competing at five Olympic Games. Most recently she returned from Luhmuhlen in 2011 with a European team bronze.

Based in Devon, Mary has always

loved horses, and with her daughter Emily keenly following in her footsteps, she is definitely one to watch for the future.

Mary will give an insight into the eventing world, with a demonstration that will help riders to be successful in all three phases of this exciting sport, with a special focus on how to tackle the cross country.

Said Mary: “I am pleased to be part of Your Horse Live, it really is a great event packed full of fun and shopping. I am looking forward to meeting visitors and sharing an insight in the eventing world.”

Don’t miss this incredible chance to learn from one of the best event riders in the country!

To book your tickets in advance and save money visit www.yourhorselive.co.uk or call 0844 581 0770. Hotline closes on Monday 5th November at midday.

(as more often than not they will be competing at the same events as you in the future) and social media such as facebook, twitter and special interest on line groups are great ways to invite and interest people in a share scheme.

You can access affordable training and gain valuable competition experience by joining your local riding club. Earn yourself a place on the riding club team and you might be in with the chance of riding at hallowed venues such as Hickstead or Blenheim Palace during the annual Horse Trials. For those tempted to affiliate to the main equestrian disciplines or wishing to do the odd affiliated competition, test the water with a day ticket before you take the expensive plunge. All the disciplines offer day tickets for non-members. For example, you don’t need to be a member to compete at a Petplan Equine Area (Dressage) Festival Qualifier or a

BE80 (eventing) Training class at your local horse trials.

Prepare to save

Firstly, it’s important to be organised as many events will charge you more for entering last minute or on the day, so plan your competition schedule in advance - it is a good way of managing your budget and will stop you from getting carried away on the day, wasting pounds that could have been saved by just a little forward thinking.

Planning of events and classes in advance is not the only area of

cont. on p.40

Charlotte Collyer of Petplan Equine.


Insurance


Competing • Insurance • Property

competition preparation where expense can be incurred or savings made. Whether it’s buying whitening shampoo to turn your muddy pony into a sparkling champion, or having extra lessons to ensure a winning performance, costs can quickly spiral. Look for cheaper alternatives to branded equestrian products. For example, many a groom would not be without their Fairy Liquid or home made fly repellent. Remember one person’s trash is another person’s treasure, so if you’re on the hunt for a new show jacket start by looking at e-bay for a bargain. When visiting the tack shop for competition essentials make a list of what you need and stick to it - don’t get carried away and be tempted by all the wonderful things on offer.

Efficiency in training

Lessons are a fun part of having a horse and vital if you want to compete successfully, although they can be expensive. There are ways of keeping up your training while keeping costs down. Group lessons are usually considerably cheaper than private ones and what you lose in not having one to one tuition you gain by having peers to watch and learn from in the group. So get a group of people of similar riding ability together and book an instructor on, say a monthly basis. Most

instructors are happy to come to teach a group as it is usually more financially viable for them and you save by not having to travel to your lesson as well. Travel and hire costs associated with schooling trips to cross country courses can soon add up. So, get creative and build your own fences at home. Go on the hunt for unwanted cones and barrels, fallen branches and spare straw bales – add a touch of colour with a few pot plants! Where possible incorporate your cross-country training into your usual hacking; use the naturally occurring terrain to improve balance, control and fitness. And finally, practice with a friend – your friend may not be a top trainer but they know you and your horse and can be your “eyes on the ground” and offer advice – by helping each other, you get many of the benefits of a lesson without the cost.

Top Training

Lessons with the top trainers are beyond the reach of many amateur riders, however a clinic with a top professional can be worth its weight in gold. Because clinics involve several riders they are often more affordable than you might think. I recently went on one of our Petplan Equine Lucinda Green X-C the Safe Way Clinics and the experience was inspiring – I learnt an enormous amount in one day and came back with increased confidence – worth every penny. So keep an eye

on the equine magazines, websites and facebook pages for training clinics. From time to time they offer the opportunity to win a lesson with a top rider like the ones Petplan Equine offers with William Fox-Pitt or Adam Kemp for example.

Sharing the caring

Time is money so consider sharing your horse with a like minded person in a similar position to yourself. If you can find someone who is of a similar riding standard, and who has the same approach to horsemanship and care as you do, not only will you share the costs but also your horse will get the work and care he needs without you doing all the work. Some compromise is necessary but in a good sharing situation the benefits usually outweigh this. A note of caution: if you are going to enter into a share with another rider it is a good idea to draw up a formal agreement that you both sign up to. It should list roles, responsibilities and

liabilities. Effort made at the outset can help to avoid problems later on.

Keep pennies in your pocketSmall changes to old habits can have a big impact on the amount you spend. You would be surprised how much you can spend in a year at catering vans. Swap that greasy fix for a homemade picnic.

So whether you’re branching out into the competition world, or are a regular on the riding club or affiliated circuit, there are ways of making your money go further. Whether it’s taking to the roads with your trusty steed to reach your destination, pairing up with a friend, scouring e-bay for a bargain or tucking into a homemade sandwich, as long as you’re realistic and plan ahead there’s bound to be an affordable way to achieve those red rosettes and championship results.

In these tough economic times, we all want to be sure we’re getting value for money in whatever we buy. So, when it comes to the important business of insuring your horse, how can you make sure you get the best deal? We’ve asked Petplan Equine’s Head of Marketing and horse enthusiast, Isabella von Mesterhazy, to give our readers some advice.

“Choosing the right insurance for you and your horse can be confusing as there are many options available from many different insurance companies. Perhaps the most important recommendation I can give is to use a specialist equine insurer that fully understands horses. Not only does that mean they are likely to be able to give you more flexible cover tailored to your needs, they also process claims quicker because they understand the issues you are facing. At Petplan Equine, our claims team is staffed by like minded horse owners and we pay 90% of our claims within five days. We can also pay the vet direct.”

“When it comes to choosing a policy, check what is covered to be

sure it gives you the peace of mind you’re looking for. It’s important to be realistic about what you will be doing with your horse when setting up your policy. The activities in which you and your horse participate will have an impact on the cost of your policy, so make sure you are as accurate as possible.”

“At Petplan Equine we have seven different activity levels so you can choose a policy that allows you to only pay for the cover you need, while giving you peace of mind. Getting the best deal is important for all of us – but getting the right type of cover whatever level you’re competing at, is just as important as the overall cost.”

For further information, visit www.petplanequine.co.uk or call 0800 980 3905.

cont. from p.38

Tailor your policy to suit you


Forest Farmacy have launched a new Website dedicated to providing the latest information and products to help beat sarcoids! Forest Farmacy is a family run business, utilising over 25 years of experience makng specific herbal formulas for racehorses and competition horses. Animals that suffer from sarcoids will experience wart like, non malignant, tumours that grow on their skin. The lesions will most often appear near the groin, face, scrotum and sheath.

While there are many different treatments available, no one method is universally effective, so what may work for one horse, will not necessarily work for another.

TestimonialsHaving spent £700.00 with the vet to have sarcoids removed

unsuccessfully, we fed Power against Sarcoids for 6 months and we no longer have a problem! Its a miracle powder cheaper than the vet, the horse can still work during treatment and most importantly it works.

Mary Jane HaighWhat a wonderful product - Sarcoid Powder. Paddy one of our rescue donkeys developed sarcoids late last year, one in particular on his sheath was very large and raw. Since using your powder it has shrunk by over 90% and is no longer bleeding and raw, he has also not developed any more. You would never think he had even had sarcoids. A BIG THANK YOU from Paddy and his friends.Tamar Valley Donkey Sanctuary

For more information go to www.horsesarcoids.comOr tel 0800 970 9421

Sarcoids website launched




aivly Country Store offers a wealth of items in store, online and even offers a free home delivery service to customers within a 10 mile radius of its Ringwood store. Currently pony Club Camp attendees are entitled to 10% off camp lists and offers are regularly promoted in the aivly e-newsletter.

Jackie says “Have a home competition”You can create your own show jumping course with Polyjumps Show Jumps. Jump rolls to revamp your rustic poles are just £3.20, Practice Poly Poles, £25.30, the Polyjump Block £38.50 and the Multijump block £44.20.

If you are planning on trying out dressage – perhaps at the Aivly-sponsored Parley Dressage Series, how about having a practice on foot at home with the Easy Dressage kit

to mark out a 20x40m arena £36.99 or learn how you can perfect your test with the Threshold Picture Guide 29 – Dressage Test Technique £5.95.

Kat says “Drink Sensibly”NAF Electro is the latest solution to help your horse to replace salts lost

in sweating to rehydrate, recover and restore. Four 500ml bottles are just £20.00.

alex says “eat for energy”

Aivly stocks an array of feeds and supplements to suit an active summer. Alex’s close relationship with feed representatives means you’ll get the best brands at the best prices. Alex is also able to offer you individual feed plans and is only a call away if you want advice. Supplements for optimum performance include Equine America Pro-Pell Plus £25.50 for £3.8l, or NAF EnerG shot £4.95/paste, and for those who are over-excitable there’s an array of calmers including Equimins Serenity Calmer £29.95, or Serenity Calm Down Paste £10.25.

Get Active with AivlyHave a healthy, happy summer with seven magnificent hints and tips from Aivly Country Store.

Tack & Turnout

Charlene says “ensure sun protection”No need for your horse’s coat to bleach in the sun with the Horseware Amigo Bug Rug with built in UV

protection £61.30. Equss’s Rehydrant spray £17.98. And there’s equine specific sun block with the NAF Sun Shield £7.50.


Gwen says “Keep cool”We all appreciate a bit of airflow which is why Aivly offers stock shirts to jackets, riding hats to lightweight jodphurs designed to suit the summer season but have you thought about your horse? Aerborn Waffle Stud Girth £34.99, TriZone Equi Airlite Tendon Boots £39.95, LeMieux Full Monty Fully Lined Sheepskin Numnah £109.99.

Kelly says “at the end of the day Chill out”When your horse has a heavy workout

use Equine America’s Like Ice (£12.50) or Green Ice Gel (£23.54) to help cool his tendons and ligaments down. You can also stimulate cooling with the award- winning Horseware IceVibe £169.95.

But if he’s in recovery, or is on restricted grazing you could give him a ‘Neigh Station’ play area complete with stable mirror and toys for £59.99 and there’s also Global Herbs Box Rest supplement (£16.95) to help him relax.

Charlene says “Fly away”

We want you and your horse to be active – not his tail! So check out the latest in fly protection including Horseware Rambo Fly Buster rug infused with EPA-Approved Buzz Blocker £108.00, Brinicombe Equine Think Fly feed supplement £32.95, Barrier Animal Health Care Fly Repellent £14.99 and a selection of fly masks including Crusader Quiet Ride £31.95.

Tack & Turnout

alex says, “Be mindful of your laminitic-prone ponies”

Aivly Country Store is aware of the ongoing challenges faced by laminitis – inside and out. Stocking approved feeds by The Laminitis Trust, supplements to homeopathic treatments and even anti-boredom toys to help your horse from the inside including Equimins HOOF Laminator Powder £26.25, NAF Laminaze £18.95, Global Herbs Laminitis Prone £15.00.

Aivly can also provide rubber stable or field mats, an array of permanent or temporary fencing materials, for strip grazing to corals. Lacme Blanfor Polywire £18.45 for 200m, Avon Electric Fence Battery £19.95 or Stockshop Woleseley Solar Bug Electric Fence Energiser, £196.95.

Meet the friendly, experienced staff at Aivly Country Store,, at its spacious store in Crow Lane, Ringwood, Hampshire BH24 3EA. Three times nominated for the BETA Retailer of the Year Award, there are members of staff with particular expertise be it nutrition, competition or fashion. And, you can also shop online at www.aivly.com. Tel 01425 472341.



The Monty Roberts Jubilee Tour 2012Learn the Secrets of Extraordinary Horsemanship!Monty Roberts, the world famous horse behaviourist, is back in Britain for his autumn 2012 tour.

Monty’s long association with the UK began back in 1989, when he was invited to Windsor Castle to show his methods to HM The Queen. She instantly understood the power of what she had seen, and encouraged him to write his first book ‘The Man who Listens to Horses’ so that his methods could be more widely broadcast.

Now is your chance to find out for yourself what The Queen and so many other riders and owners have found so deeply moving about Monty’s non-violent methods, and learn the secrets of his extraordinary horsemanship!

Sat 13th oct - Hadlow College, Tonbridge, KentWed 17th oct - Easton College, Norwich, NorfolkFri 19th oct - Bishop Burton College, Beverley, HullSun 21st oct - Myerscough College, Preston, LancsTues 23rd oct - Greenlands EC, Carlisle, CumbriaThurs 25th oct - Ingliston Country Club, Bishopton, RenfrewshireSat 27th oct - Reaseheath College, Nantwich, Cheshire

Wed 31st oct - The Grange EC, Okehampton, DevonFri 2nd nov - Hartpury College, GloucesterMon 5th nov - Crofton Manor, Fareham, Hants

Monty will be working with a variety of local horses at each venue, showing his kind but effective techniques for a range of problems such as spookiness, napping, refusal to load or the first saddle and rider for an unbacked horse.

Monty Roberts has helped countless leisure and professional riders alike, in various disciplines from Dressage, Eventing and Show Jumping to Racing. Why not join them and see how he can help YOU improve your performance and relationship with your horse, both in and out of the saddle?

Tickets are available online at www.intelligenthorsemanship.co.uk or call 01488 71300. You can take advantage of the ‘Early Bird’ ticket price of just £25, if purchased before 30th September, otherwise standard tickets are £30.

If you have a horse that you think Monty might be able to help, please call the Intelligent Horsemanship office on 01488 71300 for the chance to be selected.

Click! Problem Solvedloading, barging, spooking, bolting... i’m often asked how clicker training can help solve behavioural problems with horses. Training with positive reinforcement deals with these issues in a calm and effective way.

Because clicker training is reward-based, it helps to motivate your horse to help solve the problem. If you’ve ever felt like you’re working against your horse, this changes with clicker training because both of you are looking for the same thing - your horse wants you to say ‘yes’ with a click and treat and you want your horse to do something you can say ‘yes’ to. To get this, clicker trainers break the behaviour down into small steps. For example, for loading, I start well away from the box and reward the horse for walking over lots of different surfaces like boards, tarpaulins and pedestals. I ask for more as the horse builds in confidence. This approach helps horses to be successful because you are starting where he’s comfortable and making it an enjoyable experience.

The clarity of the clicker helps because you can tell your horse exactly what you want. Take an inhaler, for example. How do you get a horse to willingly put his nostril on it and inhale? We begin by Targeting, which is training a horse to put his nose on an object such as a toy cone. It’s easy with the clicker to

transfer it to the nostril and increase the time he holds it there, then it can be transferred to an inhaler. Bingo! A horse who will hold his nose on an inhaler!

To see these in action go to www.HannahDawsonEquine.co.uk and click on the problem solving video - this covers loading, head shy, inhaler, picking up feet, spooking and catching problems. You can learn more about clicker training with 8 of the best equine clicker trainers from around the world at the Equine Clicker Conference 2012!

Win! Two tickets to the equine Clicker Conference 2012 worth £200!Simply answer the question below and email your name and answer to [email protected] (Closing date 15/08/12)Q: What do you call the technique where a horse is trained to put his nose onto an object such as a toy cone?

07813 778785

Training • What’s On


When most people think of horse racing in the UK they think of Thoroughbreds but it is time the Standardbred got some recognition. The Standardbred is a specialised breed, derived largely from Thoroughbred bloodlines and selectively bred over generations for the ability to either trot or pace at speed in harness.

It’s the ideal summer sport for those having withdrawal symptoms from point to pointing and hunting. Becoming involved in harness racing is a simple process. Sales are held in the autumn and horses can be brought for very reasonable prices both at the sales and during the season. You can even train the horse yourself. The sport has a number of ‘hobby’ trainers that only train one or two horses for their own enjoyment. However there are a number

of professional trainers around the UK. For them it’s a serious business, they are searching for the next big star, you could be the owner. You could even become a driver, if you’re feeling brave enough!

It isn’t just exhilarating to participate in harness racing, but also to watch, as the tracks are mostly half a mile in circumference the spectator is constantly close to the heart-stopping action. There are plenty of opportunities, at all levels, for amateur and professional, for the aspiring young horses and drivers, and for those already established. Harness racing is a sport for all; it’s time for everyone to be off and pacing!

For further information about the sport and all fixture dates and locations visit www.ceredrotian.com

Harness the power, feel the excitement!

Book Review • Events • Field & Stable • Healthcare

PUBLISHED BY: KENILWORTH PRESS MAY 2012 RRP: £19.95 ISBN: 978-1-905693-47-4

neW THe MUST-HaVe GUiDe FoR RiDeRS CoMpeTinG aT Be 80, Be90 anD Be100.

TOP INTERNATIONAL RIDERS WILL BE SIGNING COPIES OF EVENTING EXPLAINED ON THE BRITISH EVENTING STAND AT BADMINTON!

Eventing Explained will be launched at the Mitsubishi Motors Badminton Horse Trials with special book-signing events attended by top international riders and the author, Liza Randall, on the British Eventing stand (no. 195). (For full details and timings check the BE website and facebook page. Signed copies will also be available to purchase from the BE stand after the launch, whilst stocks last).

Eventing Explained is a unique, all round view of how to start Eventing for riders of all ages wanting to compete in their first affiliated Horse Trials. As well as being packed with top tips and exercises

for riders in all three phases, it is also an ideal aid for parents or other halves of would-be event riders whose weekends will never be the same again once they hit the Eventing circuit! There is essential information on getting your horse fit and also sections on rider fitness and sports psychology to prepare for the event and to do your best on the day. Other chapters include rider safety advice and essential rules for your first BE Horse Trials, plus a comprehensive guide to the actual day of the Event itself, including how it will run and indispensable advice on the aftercare of your horse.

A Who’s Who section includes, amongst others, the responsibilities of the Course Designer, Builder, Secretary, Regional Coordinator and Organiser in running a Horse Trials, and how their roles are relevant to a competitor.

Eventing Explained Published in association with British Eventing. By Liza Randall

Nupafeed and Dressage Anywhere – Preparing you for your best performance!

www.dressageanywhere.com launched in January 2010 to offer riders of all abilities and experience the opportunity to take part in dressage competitions without plaiting up or leaving the yard. Since its launch, members have enjoyed competing at all levels, from British Dressage introductory to advanced Medium, Fei prix St Georges, Riding for the Disabled, the pony Club and British eventing. prize winners receive prize money or vouchers, rosettes and prestige! Entry is online, simply choose the class to enter, then ride and film the test and upload to the Dressage Anywhere website. All tests are judged by a List 1 or List 2 British Dressage (or FEI International) judge and an e-mail with a link to the scoresheet is automatically sent. All scoresheets can be saved and printed and you can even view your video with the scoresheet comments.

Practice Tests for British Dressage, FEI and British Eventing are also included every month where riders can get more detailed feedback from judges to use as part of their training programme. The Team Challenge League offers groups of three or more riders the chance to compete for extra prizes, as does the Riding School League, especially set up for those without their own horse or pony. And what’s more, Dressage Anywhere is open to anyone from anywhere in the world! Nupafeed are proud to be an official sponsor of Dressage Anywhere. With exclusive prizes and money-off vouchers to be won, our unique supplements can help you get the best performance whether competing from home or away!

Documents

Equi-Ads July 2012